Some of us have been dog rescuers all of our lives. Others
have been involved in dog rescue for a short time. We come
from all walks of life, we are all shapes, we are all ages.
Who are we?
As I walk down the street beside you, you may not be able to
tell. Sure, you may see some dog hair on my coat but you have
no idea how much work has gone into that!
I am a dog rescuer.
In my house I always have extra leashes, collars, medical
supplies and bedding for dogs that need emergency help. My
decorating choices were made to accommodate dogs - flooring was
chosen because it is easy to clean, textiles were tested with dog
hair, the shower was designed to fit two people and a
dog…
Being a dog rescuer is not a paying job for most. It sure
isn't for me. My professional life fills my days (and some
nights), fulfills my career aspirations and pays my salary. I
put 100% into my day job and when that wraps up, every evening I
find a way to put 100% more into rescue efforts. That is not
to say that I am rescuing every day. But there is something
related to dog rescue that bounds into each day.
Luckily my spouse is committed to dog rescue as well. I
have known of couples who have not been on the same page when it
comes to dog rescue commitment and it can be messy. This is a
labour of love and when we get a call during Boxing Day breakfast
saying that a dog needs help, we pack up our breakfast and head out
on the highway. I can't imagine how difficult it would be if
my spouse did not support this. Dog rescue is an emotional
pursuit and when I am angry, he understands…when I am sad and
defeated, he understands…when I am complaining about the work, he
understands…because he is a dog rescuer too.
I am not sure if I chose to be a dog rescuer or if dogs chose me
to be their rescuer. Either way, my soul has been shaped by
my experiences as a dog rescuer. My heart has been broken and
it has also been filled with joy because of the dogs I have met
while rescuing. My memory is filled with stories of rescue
dogs, images of dogs I have been able to help. Dog rescue is
at the core of who I am.
I am a dog rescuer - you could be one too.