There has been a lot of talk lately on the local scene, of animal rescues acting inappropriately. Talk like that is sad. It unfortunately tarnishes efforts from all rescues and influences public perception. The good will and generosity of the public is what keeps rescues alive.
Now please do not misunderstand that statement. If a rescue or an individual who refers to themselves as a “rescuer” has engaged in criminal acts as defined by the Criminal Code of Canada, I am all for the public, the RNC and the RCMP exposing the acts and finding justice for both pets and families. To do any less means that those quality and reputable rescues get lumped in with the less savoury ones and all suffer. Rescues hold a position of trust. To betray that trust means that a rescue or rescuer needs to be held accountable.
I write this blog today to point out that, despite some talk of rescues(ers) behaving badly, there is a wealth of good and important work being done by rescues and rescuers out there. Much of the work that goes on in rescue happens behind the scenes. The general public does not hear about it. The work is being done by people who recieve low to no pay and spend countless hours doing this much needed work. If you doubt what I say, visit a rescue and check it out. It is always a huge challenge in managing resources, funding, space, time and efforts. The work is to really be commended.
stats from last week at the St. John’s SPCA below a wall of SPCA alumni
My father was a consumate volunteer. Despite working long hours as a high school principal, he also sat on any committee, group, board and project that came his way. He always believed in giving back. He passed on that same value to me. I am proud dad to four rescues thus far, have fostered over a dozen and continue to help out where I can. Rescue will always be a huge part of what I do.
Koby is a rescue, celebrating his 3rd birthday today and 1.5 years in his furever home
In the work I do, I am fortunate to be involved with a number of rescues. I say fortunate because I can see the work that is happening there. I see the behind the scenes happenings. I see the dedication of the staff and volunteers. I see animals come in in one condition and get adopted with a new lease on life. I am happy to be a part of it. I will let you in on a little secret, the vast majority of rescues are the same. They are filled with great people who work tirelessly to help animals. Most quality rescues are constantly striving to provide a better service to the public. While there is always room for improvement, it is difficult to happen without the help of the public.
Maggie May (left), a 15 year old rescue at Furever Young Rescue. She is attending class, loving life and hoping to find her new furever home.
So here is a challenge to everybody out there…find a way to help.
If you do not know how, here are some suggestions:
1. Volunteer at a shelter: clean kennels, walk the dogs, man/woman the phones...
2. Foster: open your heart and your home to a dog, a cat, a rabbit, a bird. That work is so important to the survival and benefit of many rescue programs. It is challenging but so rewarding.
3. Adopt: next time you are looking for a pet, consider adopting from a rescue. Your adoption means there is room for another animal in need
4. Volunteer at a charity event: Most rescues recieve very little to no government funding. As such, they rely mainly upon the support of the public to do the work they do. Help out selling tickets, sit at a booth, help out at a flea market.
5. Donate Donate Donate: Food, pet supplies, blankets, gently used items…these things mean rescues can save money by not having to purchase them themselves,
6. Support fundraising efforts: Chase the Ace, Online Auctions, 50-50 draws…all are fundemantal in helping rescues do the work they do.
7. Organize your own fundraisers: Kids are amazing at this. From school plays to lemonade stands it never ceases to amaze me what a segement of the population with little to no money is able to give. As adults, we need to take a page out of the kid’s books. Organize a fundraiser at your place or for, among your sports team or your reading club.
8. Give them some thanks: When you see a job that is being done well, give them props. I can assure you the workers are not looking for the recognition but they sure to appreciate it when it is given,
This list is by no means exhaustive.
Frankly, rescues are always looking for help…there is never enough. Come up with your own ways to help. It will be appreciated by the rescues and will help the animals.