As most of you know, I've been involved with New England Basset Hound Rescue since 2003, when I adopted Brutus (pictured left.) Those of you who met Brutus will remember his extra loud vocals, his super long ears and the fact that he wanted nothing more than love, and more of it... (ok, and a few cookies, too!) Brutus passed away around Thanksgiving after a long battle with lymphoma. He had a wonderful remission thanks to the treatment and caring staff at Tufts, and never, ever complained. He was such a gentle giant and never met a person he didn't like (and of course you were especially liked if your hands were filled with Snaussages!)

Two years ago, I joined NEBHR's board as Vice President. Along with revamping the website and helping with fundraising, I stepped in as a much-needed foster home. Brutus was a gracious host to the many foster hounds who came and went, putting up with puppy antics, dogs that stole his coveted bed and gave him a run for his money when it came to begging for snacks. While his presence in the hound household is irreplaceable, he passsed the "Big Basset Brother" torch on to Riot, my now senior hound, rescued in 2004 at age 8.

If it wasn't for Brutus, I never would be working with NEBHR, to foster, place hounds and solicit donations. While I had him for just three years, he showed me how appreciative needy dogs can be of even the littlest of things, and how truly deserving they are of a second chance.

NEBHR's annual fundraiser, Woofstock, will be held on May 19, in Sturbridge, Mass. Each year we raise thousands of dollars through our auctions, raffles, contests and pledges. Carrying the torch in Brutus's honor, Riot and I will be participating in the event's "Waddle in the Woods" to help raise money and awareness for our cause. (Don't worry -- it's a short walk for those little houndy legs!)

All funds raised through this site go directly to our organization, which covers all medical treatment, vaccinations, food and supplies for hounds as they transition into foster care and get ready for their new, forever homes. NEBHR was there for Brutus and now it's my turn to help.

Donating through Firstgiving is fast, easy and most importantly secure. No donation is too small... If you can't donate, perhaps you know someone who can; and if you're free on May 19, we'd love to see you at our event! Please check our website for more details: www.nebhr.org

Thanks for reading... and for your support.

-Heather & Riot (and Brutus, too!)