Love is in the Air………………..
We all know that our relationship with the animals in our lives may start with love, but it takes much more than love to sustain them. Adopting an animal is a big commitment. And, like any other relationship, there will be good times and some sad times. Our companion animals make us laugh, they bring us joy, they comfort us, they get us out for exercise and fresh air, and help to keep us on a regular routine and, perhaps, most important of all, they offer us unconditional love.
In the United States 68% of households own a pet. That’s 84.6 million homes! And, we spent $72.1 billion caring for our pets in 2021. The humane animal bond has evolved for more than 15,000 years to become what it is today.
We’re so glad that we can play a part in making these relationships possible. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of the work we do! So, since it’s February and all about love, we’d like to share some of our love stories with you.
Daisy
Daisy was one of six kittens a deputy found in the middle of the road at 3 am. The kittens and their mother were huddled together in the newly fallen snow in sub-freezing temperatures and would not have survived the night. They suffered from severe upper respiratory infections and other illnesses, but Daisy was, by far, the least robust. With lots of TLC and veterinary care Daisy pulled through and grew to be a round, little dumpling. But the upper respiratory infection had affected Daisy’s eye such that it required removal. Daisy recovered well and was one of the first of the litter to find her new home.
“She adapted from the moment we brought her home, she’s a little sweetheart . We couldn’t be happier with how she fits into our home”. says her new family.
Nina
Nina came to us from an area shelter that had taken in a number of American Bullies as a result of a cruelty investigation. Nina was five years old, had lived in a cage her entire life, and was used only for breeding. Her teeth were filed to the gum line and her ears and tail were cropped. Today, Nina lives a life she never could have imagined.
“ I never knew my soul mate would be so tiny,” says her happy owner.
Bo and the Bird
Perhaps one of the most heartwarming stories is that of Bo Bo and his bird. In October of last year, we were notified of a several dogs and cats left alone in a home when their owner was rushed to the hospital. Coincidentally, we knew of this gentleman and offered to care for his pets until he could return home. Sadly, that never happened. So, three dogs, six cats and a cockatiel came into our care. The 15-year-old, blind, deaf, Japanese chin had slept at the foot of the bird’s cage for years. We hadn’t realized how closely they were bonded until they arrived at the shelter until the bird heard the dog bark. He immediately began to sing a lively, happy tune. We brought the dog to the bird’s cage and, once again, the bird broke into song! We could not possibly separate this unlikely pair, but what were the chances that someone would adopt a 15-year-old, blind, deaf dog…and a bird! Well, it happened! And, here they are in their new home. Watch their video on our Facebook page! (We never did know the bird’s name.)
The Betty White Shelter Challenge
Betty White, perhaps best known for her role on the hit TV show The Golden Girls, passed away at the age of 99, just shy of her 100th birthday. Apart from her notable and long-lasting acting career, White was a true advocate for animals.
White’s passion and support for animals spans decades and since her passing the #bettywhitechallenge became a viral sensation across the internet. The challenge called for everyone to donate as little as $5.00 on January 17, 2022 to a local animal shelter or rescue of their choice, on what would have been Betty White’s 100th birthday. It became a successful fundraiser for shelters nationwide, raising funds far beyond anyone’s expectations —ours included! Thank you for your donations! The $5 bill in our mailbox, the drive-by donation when we’re walking dogs, the checks in the mail, and donations through Pay Pal and Facebook. Together you donated almost $3K in Betty White’s memory!
Dandy Mart Donation
Our good friends at the Hector Dandy Mart raised just over $1K for us this past holiday season!
A huge thank you for their hard work and continued support!
Year End Fundraising: You Met The Challenge
We wish we could personally thank each of you for YOUR generous support! You met the matching gift challenge of $40,000 and we concluded the year raising funds of $80,000! You’ve helped us achieve something we once only dreamed possible!
Wags to Riches – February Sales
Just in time for Valentine’s Day you’ll find a wonderful gift for that special someone in your life! Through February 14th all women’s clothing, all jewelry and all artwork are 25% off already great prices!
Visit the Wags to Riches Facebook page for the details of our upcoming President’s Day Sale.
Wags to Riches is located at 313 North Franklin Street in Watkins Glen.
Hours:
Monday-Wednesday-Thursday-Friday 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Sunday: Noon – 4:00 pm
Closed Tuesday
Phone: 607-210-4263
All proceeds benefit the care of Shelter Animals