YOUR SUPPORT HELPS US DO THIS
As the UK’s animal welfare crisis worsens, we’re developing and expanding an aspect of our work which we don’t talk much about. But we should, and will, as it saves dogs lives. Which is what the charity is here to do.
We are increasingly assisting people who for whatever reason know their dogs' best futures lie with others. Making the decision to give your dog to a rescue is for many people utterly heartbreaking. For others, of course, it isn’t. But, in all cases, the dogs need help and we will give it wherever we can.
We're not a rehoming organisation and have no plans to be. We work with those who are. Those with the experience, ethics, and resources to do it well. Our membership of the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes helps, as well as other networking. Plus over the years Schnauzerfest has established a respected place in the world of animal welfare.
A recent example of how we use our network to help people and dogs shows what your support for our charity means in practice.
A few weeks ago our help was sought in Scotland. Personal circumstances were complicated and unforeseen and a place in rescue was desperately needed for a young schnauzer. Her owners were struggling with everything, trying their very best to do the right thing. The case was not straightforward and we pulled together several threads from our network to get things in place over a few weeks. When it was known that a place had been secured in a good rescue for the dog, it relieved a lot of pressure on her family. They understood they would need to wait a little while, that the rescue could not take her immediately. Before our assistance, the hard circumstanaces that rescues are operating in today wasn’t appreciated, and hadn’t been sufficiently explained.
We received this email and are sharing it as it illustrates why we need to do this and how important this side of our work increasingly is. This is a time when rescues - and owners - are under enormous pressure and in many cases struggling to do the very best for the animals.
"I wanted to thank you again for your help in advocating for me with the rescue. She has been for her assessment this morning and they have a foster home available with an experienced person used to vocal dogs who is going to take her from Monday. This avoids her having to go to the kennels or stay somewhere for a few days and then getting moved about. As soon as they met her they realised how lovely she is and just likes to be heard rather than it being aggressive etc!"
Dogs are easily misunderstood. Being able to advocate for them is a privilege. And it helps.
For many, life right now is really difficult. We are here to help where we can. With your support we'll do our very best for people and dogs.