Hi Everyone!
Guess what! It's time for the last of our two fundraisers for the year 2010! Yup, it's Shuffle time...you know, the one where I put on my begging face! Check out the link:
http://www.bassetrescuedfw.org/info/display?PageID=9192
(NOTE: when you scroll down the link that's NOT my resident basset Bupps in the gym rings!)
July of last year we were loaded with the puppy mill dogs from the raid in Bowie, TX. I'm happy to report that ALL of the bassets were restored to health and placed before the end of the year. The puppy mill dog intake was in the top 3 most stressful times I experienced during my term as President of the rescue (my term ended in January). Thankfully we were not called upon to repeat such a mission during this year (at least so far). Last year we rescued 112 dogs which was a record over the previous high of 88 dogs in one year!
Even without a puppy mill influx the need for funds is still huge. We have had a large percentage of dogs requiring heartworm treatment. Heartworm treatment is not only very dangerous for the dog but it's very expensive too! Depending on the degree of infestation of the heartworms, age, and overall health condition the dog is at risk to expire from the treatment. It's not something to take lightly, AND it's not pleasant to observe during recovery. The dog's respiratory system is depressed and at risk during the recovery. Depending on the age, weight, level of infestation the cost to treat one dog can run as much as $900. Of course we have the routine vetting expenses for rabies, annual vaccines, spay and neuter surgeries too. We had a dog with a broken leg requiring more than one surgery $$$$. He was a young and otherwise healthy basset but it still took long recovery period from February to August before he was adopted. Our adoption fees don't cover the vet expenses in about 98% of the time. If we charged adoption fees to cover the cost nobody would adopt! Therefore, the fundraisers are a huge part of the rescues' mission!
My goal this year is $500. I realize that the economic climate is not good at this time and have set a little lower bar than last year. If you can help me reach my goal with as little as $5 I will be so very thankful, as the $5 donations add up! Donating can be accomplished via Firstgiving with a credit card. It's easy and you can print a receipt for tax purposes. Check donations may be mailed directly to NTBHR, P.O. Box 3229, Grapevine, TX 76099. Just make the check payable to NTBHR, on the check memo line put 'Shuffle Donation/Mittie' so it will count towards my goal as an 'off line' contribution (and I can send you a thank you note). If you are an adopter of one of my foster dogs and can't make it to the Shuffle to support us please consider a donation.
As an FYI, I've sold my home and I'm moving to Argyle, TX. The new place is about 13 miles northwest of where I live now. I didn't expect the current home to sell so quickly, but I'm grateful it sold and for a fair price too. The new place is being built to ADA specs (so I won't be tearing up the doors when I have to use a Hoveround chair!). Unless we have exceptionally good weather, I probably won't be in it by Christmas. I will be somewhat homeless beginning September 20, until completion. I'm still looking for an 'extended stay' place that will allow 2 bassets...pray for me! If you donate to my plea I PROMISE I won't try to move in with you...sooooooo just how large is YOUR spare bedroom and do you have cable?
Lastly, if you have other dog lover friends with big hearts please forward this email...we will take donations from anyone and everyone wanting to contribute!
Ahrrrrrrroooo,
Mittie &
The Gurls Bupps & Doozee