A Cold, But Successful Adoption Event!

By Cheree Miller

We knew it would be cold today. Temperatures were expected to stay in the 40s. And then there was the wind. One of those icy breezes that just sliced through your clothes. We took turns sitting in our cars to warm up, and sheltered the animals with wind blocks, keeping the youngest ones in the back of an enclosed pickup for extra warmth. We even took turns cuddling the animals for warmth. We considered calling it off because of the cold, but the need was so great, with so many animals needing homes, we decided to dress warmly and brave the cold.

Jan had even made a special run to Ola the night before to rescue a momma dog on the street with twelve -- yes, I said TWELVE puppies. They are a very handsome Rottweiler/Lab mixture. Six of them were adopted out. The other six came home with me. (I know, not the way it's supposed to work, I am supposed to come home with FEWER animals, not more. At least, that's what my son keeps telling me!) I did manage to adopt out Chai Kitty and Leonardo, although I brought another black kitten (this one female) home with me. I also took in two Weimaraner/Lab mix puppies. Total count for the day: 2 cats out, 1 cat and 8 dogs in.

I know, I know. I do really well when someone CALLS to say they need me to take in an animal. I simply take a deep breath and tell them, "I am so sorry, my rescue is full, but I would be happy to post a digital photo of the dog or cat on line and see what we can do that way." But, when the animal is right in front of you, and you know the next stop is the animal shelter -- or worse -- being put down, that is a completely different story. I take a deep breath and say, "I would be willing to take in this animal, but I would really appreciate it if you could make a donation to my rescue to defray the expenses. I will have to have it vaccinated, de-wormed, tested for heartworm/fe-leuk, spayed/neutered, etc."

I did pull in some donations today. I will probably turn around and spend them on more crates for the additional pups I brought home today, after all, I can't exactly throw them outside with snow in the forecast this week...

Cheree is practice manager of Azzore Veterinary Specialists, and founder of the Mill Creek Animal Rescue - both in Russellville, AR.

You can see a list of animals available for adoption through Mill Creek Animal Rescue at Petfinder.com