We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again. Animal rescue is hard. There’s nothing easy about saving lives, raising money, dealing with drama and balancing your work and family life on top of it. So why do it then? Why would you subject yourself to this level of stress and horror of what people do to animals? Why not just write a check to your favorite animal welfare group and move on with life?
“I got into rescue to make a difference.” – This is the most common response I’ve heard as to why people rescue. Many people venture into animal rescue when they learn about the problems and the abuse that many animals face on a regular basis. They often are not aware of the magnitude of the problem nor are they familiar with the best way to make an impact. But they are passionate about knowing that animals matter, and they are looking for someone to channel their energy.
When I got into rescue, it initially started out as a curiosity having recently overnight fostered a GSD that had parvo for a close friend. That dog, Ripley, unfortunately did not make it but it sparked my curiosity regarding this phenomenon called animal rescue and peaked my interest to learn more about where these animals came from. Not too long later I got involved with transport by combining my love of flying with animals through a wonderful organization called Pilots ‘N’ Paws and I quickly became addicted. Not only did I have a purpose for flying, but I had the opportunity to interact with animals of all shapes and sizes and get hundreds of puppy kisses. Since then my passion has grown and I have learned so much more about animal rescue from every perspective imaginable. I’ve had the opportunity to connect with hundreds of wonderful rescuers and volunteers, who have inspired me to develop Doobert.com to try and help simplify one of the most difficult aspects of rescue, relay transport. I am grateful for everything that has been shared with me and curious how others’ journeys have inspired them to ignite their passion and rescue animals.
So what’s your story?
Comments (4)
I rescue because it feels good to save a life and give them a better one they were currently living. I have never found a more powerful bond or sense of loyalty than the one I have with my babies.
I have a full house now and that is often painful for me because if I could, I would take in every one of them. I just don’t have the room or the money.
I had to find something to help with the guilt I often feel when having to say no to bringing another one home. Last year, I discovered the world of transport. It is amazing. Though you are often with your passenger/passengers for a very short time, they never fail to leave an impact on your life. I cry every time I hand them over to the next driver. It feels so good to know you are a part of their journey to a better life. If you are a big animal lover, you can not walk away from a transport without giving a piece of your soul to that baby and taking a small piece of theirs home with you.
If you have a couple of hours a month to spare and would like to find a way to help, I recommend giving transport a try. It will change you. If you would like more information or to be pointed in the right direction, please feel free to contact me. One option is to do a Facebook search for. Type in the state you live in followed by the word “transport”, it should bring the group right away. I run for Georgia transport and they are a great group of folks.
With enough love and dedication, perhaps someday we will eradicate euthanasia.
Hugs,
Leah
Thank you Leah for sharing your inspiring words. You embody the spirit of rescue and your passion exudes through your words. Thank you for everything you do for the animals!
This boy has since gone to a wonderful forever home, but this is why I foster, and why I rescue. There have been more very special dogs since. It is so hard to let them go, but it would be harder to know I let them die. https://youtu.be/4IKPvgFavus
Thank you for sharing Suzanne. You are right in that it is hard to let them go but that we find comfort knowing that through our efforts we make their remaining days peaceful and their souls feel love. Fostering is an awesome feeling because you know you made a difference.