Saving Lives is why we are here

We went to them and they came to us!

The Sanger animal control truck pulled into the ARF facility with 9 dogs for us to check out and temperament-test. Animal Control Officer Don unloaded crates in the pouring rain. These dogs were all strays that no one had claimed and he wanted to see if they could make the trip to Oregon. He knew exactly what we were looking for! All of the dogs passed with ease. A beagle, toy poodle, and the worlds sweetest Chihuahua will be making the journey. He also had some beautiful Chihuahua puppies for us which actually complicates our mission at this point. Due to the risk of parvo we cannot combine puppies in the same kennel or runs from different litters when we return because they do not have a complete set of vaccinations to properly protect them. We must take every precaution to insure that there is no cross-contamination when animals are not fully vaccinated. We will not be able to take any more puppies because we have no way to properly house them when we return.

One of the most frustrating parts of this rescue is that we cannot bring back many large dogs because they require so much space and we would only be able to bring back 20 – 25 with no other smaller dogs. Little dogs require far less leg room and tolerate being kenneled in groups better. We have a few larger dogs to bring back but we simply do not have enough space for the incredible dogs that we have encountered. One surprising statistic is that we have more females (49) than males (33.) Usually we return with more males because they tend to be left behind in shelters due to the common myth that all males “mark” and are not as easily house-trained. We are pleased to have a great selection that includes 22 puppies varying in age from 6 weeks – 4 months. Two will have to go into foster because they are not old enough to begin vaccinations but the rest will be available for adoption.

The media continues to be interested in the SOHS Saving Train. Our rescue was featured on the evening news last night. There are many other groups who also rescue dogs in Fresno but we have provided a steady lifeline for dogs from Fresno to southern Oregon. One of the many heartening moments of the trip was provided when we were told that the coordinator of another rescue group here in the Central Valley supports the partnership between ARF and Southern Oregon Humane Society so much that she asked family members to not give presents this past holiday season. Instead she raised $1800 so that ARF can make a trip to Oregon with dogs that need homes. We will look forward to having them make the trip in March. Rescue efforts are extremely labor intensive…we would not be able to keep up this pace and do rescues back to back every month.

I myself am bringing back a requested dog for my own mother. In the midst of this rescue her much beloved 17 year-old Chihuahua passed away. Originally discarded in the SOHS parking lot as a senior dog five years ago, Cricket was adopted by my mother who loved and cherished her dearly for five years. Devastated over the loss of her companion her grief has been replaced with anticipation for the arrival of a specially chosen “senior” Chihuahua that will be arriving on the Saving Train for her. Her heart and home are open to welcoming a another friend and companion.

There are so many great dogs of all ages arriving on the Saving Train. Adopting a pet is a lifetime commitment so please consider adoption if you are ready. Many animals in shelters are there because their owners didn't realize how much time it took to care for them.

Are you ready?
Adopting a pet is a big decision. Pets require a lot of time, money, and commitment so we encourage you to think through your decision before you adopt a companion animal. The fact that you may be considering adopting a rescued dog indicates that you are a responsible and caring person. Before you make the decision to bring a pet into your life ask yourself the following questions.

Why do you want a pet?
Do you have time for a pet? Dogs, and cats require food, water, exercise, care, and companionship every day of the year for their lifetime.

Is your pet a good fit with your family?
Your entire family should be included in the selection process. Canine members are required to do a “meet and greet” to insure compatibility.
Are you prepared to provide medical care a pet may need?
Unexpected medical emergencies are unfortunate but common aspects of pet ownership.

Is it a good time for you to adopt a pet?
Pets like a predictable routine, and if your routine is changing or inconsistent it may be not be good timing to adopt.

Are your living arrangements suitable for the animal you have in mind?
Animal size and breed characteristics are important considerations – do your homework and ask lots of questions.

If you are hesitant about any of your answers to these questions this is probably not the right time to adopt. However, if you are confident in your answers it may be the perfect time for you to adopt a pet!