I Need Your Help

*PLEASE VOTE for Lucky Dog Rescue
in Care2's Shelter Challenge: http://www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest/8102/3/

**Please CLICK THIS LINK & SHARE the video: ttp://animoto.com/play/HQ2hOYB4SLftGOZ5p4WoOg

It’s so rare that a very small rescue group in Mississippi has a chance to win a national shelter contest. Actually, it’s almost unheard of. However, Lucky Dog Rescue has that chance... to win $15,000 in Care2’s America’s Favorite Shelter Contest… but we are currently 600 votes behind. YOU have the power to help me change that.

When I say that I have a “very small rescue group,” I don’t mean a group with 20 dedicated volunteers. I don’t even mean a group with 10 volunteers. Lucky Dog Rescue is the smallest of the small in terms of volunteers and donations. It’s mostly just me, busting my ass every day of the week and paying out of my own pocket.

Some days, I get very lucky... and have 1 volunteer. On the luckiest of days, I have 2 volunteers. But most days, it’s just me… and LOTS of rescue dogs.

However, with or without volunteers and donations, Lucky Dog Rescue still works to save every dog that can possibly be saved. I often take the dogs that no one else will take… the Pit Bulls, the sick, the elderly, the bait dogs, the special needs, and so on.

I take the dogs with no other hope… and tell them, “You matter.” I take the dogs with pain in their hearts… and say, “You’re safe now.” I take the dogs that have never known love… and say, “I love you.”

When natural disaster strikes, and local shelters become overwhelmed, small, under-funded rescues like mine... step-up. After the devastating tornadoes in Alabama, I contacted the shelter in the hardest hit area, and said, “Give me the urgent dogs that no other rescue will take.” That statement is the heart of Lucky Dog Rescue.

Every single dog I have saved over the years is a dog that no one else wanted. I don’t do this because I have tons of funds, space, or help… I do it because it’s the right thing to do for the dogs.

But at the same time, I know that these dogs will be the sickest, most abused, and hardest to place. I know the toll this will take on my bank account, and the additional burden I’ll place on myself. But I also know… that out of all the dogs that need help, these special pups deserve saving more than any other. And I know, that without me… they die. And so I keep going…

I’ve always been there for the dogs in need, and I always will be. But my heart breaks, because my limited funds are not sufficient to save the many broken souls who need me. At this point in my life, $5 is a lot of money to me. $50 donations make me cry tears of joy. And $100 is nothing short of life-changing for these dogs.

But $15,000… is LIFE SAVING. That’s the kind of funding I could never raise on my own… That’s the kind of funding that a small rescue like mine rarely has the chance to win. I’m shocked that I’m even in the running, but I’m honored… because it means that so many people think that Lucky Dog Rescue has made a difference… and want to help me carry on in an even bigger way.

I know what this funding could do for the dogs with no other chance, so I’m hopeful that my dream of saving more lives will come true… with your help…

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR LUCKY DOG RESCUE in Care2’s America’s Favorite Shelter Contest. Don’t forget to CONFIRM YOUR VOTE IN YOUR EMAIL or else your vote doesn’t count! Please share the link and ask all of your friends to do the same!

Also, PLEASE click this link (http://www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest/8102/3/) & SHARE the special video Chris Hoar made about Lucky Dog Rescue with all of your facebook friends and email contacts! In your post, ask them to VOTE & SHARE the video as well, reminding them to confirm their votes.

If everyone does this, then maybe… just maybe… the smallest of small rescue groups can have a chance to win something BIG… which would help save so many more lives than I ever could on my own. Right now, I’m just a girl… with a dream of saving the world. This prize could change everything…

But I need your help. Please help me. Vote.

*****CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO LUCKY DOG RESCUE!*****

Care2's America's Favorite Shelter Contest

The other day, I ran across a link posted on my Lucky Dog Rescue Blog facebook wall. The blog by Kol’s Notes was titled, “You Lucky Dog,” with a picture of my foster baby, Molly. I was so touched... and also curious... so I clicked the link to read the post…

And suddenly, I was speechless. Kolchak Puggle, a blogger dog, wrote the most touching post about my work. I felt the tears streaming down my face, as I read some of the most incredible words ever written about me. With each sentence, my heart filled with more joy and gratitude. I honestly had no words… only an immense appreciation and sense of amazement that anyone would do something so kind for me.

In addition to the inspiring post, Kolchak also asked everyone to vote for Lucky Dog Rescue in the Care2.com America’s Favorite Shelter Contest. The grand prize is $15,000 for the winning rescue/shelter, and Lucky Dog Rescue is currently in 1^st Place. However, the contest doesn’t end until July 10^th, and there are many amazing groups competing.

This prize money would do more for my rescue dogs than you could ever know, and it would help me save so many more lives. Lucky Dog Rescue is a very small, under-funded rescue group. I do all of my rescue work myself, out of my own pocket. I’m lucky enough to have a couple of amazing volunteers, and a few generous donors, but help and funds are so limited here.

So, I’d like to ask you to PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR LUCKY DOG RESCUE in Care2’s America’s Favorite Shelter Contest, and please ask all of your friends to do the same! Don’t forget to confirm your vote in your email!

Also, because I could never accurately describe the amazingness of Kol’s blog, I’m asking all of you to PLEASE READ the touching blog post about Lucky Dog Rescue by Kol’s Notes: You Lucky Dog, By: Kolchak Puggle.

Thank you, Kolchak Puggle and Mama Jodi, for touching my heart and making my dream of inspiring others come true. I’ll never forget what you did for me, for as long as I live.

Pit Stops

Kara, the Mahoneys, Michelle, & I

For the past 2 days, published author Michelle Sathe visited my Lucky Dog Rescue in Meridian, Mississippi. Yesterday, I hosted a book signing event for her amazing book, “Pit Stops,” and Michelle generously donated a portion of each sale to Lucky Dog Rescue. I also got to meet Michelle’s special Pit Bull Ambassador, Kara, who was super-freaking awesome.

First of all, I’d like to thank my incredible friends and family that attended the event… your support meant the world to me, and I can’t tell you how much I appreciated your willingness to be there for me and support a good cause. It’s always special when people understand how important something is to you… and actually care enough to show up.

Daisy & I

One special attendant was my death row rescue baby, Daisy Dooley. Daisy’s adoptive family, the Mahoney’s, drove an 8-hour round trip to be there to support me, and it touched my heart more than they could ever know. Daisy is truly thriving in her new home… and to know that I (and Pet Pardons) played a role in her happiness… means everything. There were several others who went out of their way to be there for me, including my parents, my brother, and his wife. Thank you, and I love you.

Today, Michelle wanted to walk a day in my shoes. She offered to help with anything and everything I needed for the rescue pups, and she also wanted to interview me for her next book, “Pit Stops 2.”

I’m honored that Michelle would think enough of me and Lucky Dog Rescue to feature us in her book… it’s truly incredible. In addition, it was so cool to hang out with her, and I truly appreciated the extra volunteer help she offered. The Mississippi heat can be unbearable, but Michelle was out there busting it with me… walking dogs, cleaning kennels, and playing fetch in the yard.

She gave special attention to each of my babies, and she asked to hear their stories. When I’d start to cry describing the horrors of their pasts, she’d reach out to hug me. I’m beyond thankful for everything she did for me during her time here. I’ll never forget it, for as long as I live.

Michelle Sathe & I

Michelle’s visit was really special to me. While I knew we’d get along, I didn’t realize just how much I’d connect with her… and the massive appreciation I’d have for that connection. Sometimes, you don’t realize how alone you are… until you’re not alone anymore. Even though she wasn’t here for long… our time together was enough to recharge my battery… to remind me that other people in this world “get it,” and that they’re out there fighting just like I am. I needed that reminder.

It’s easy to feel alone. My passion makes me very “different” from others.  A lot of people don’t understand me. A lot of people don’t want to hear about the things I do, because it’s too hard for them. Many people don’t see my “dog stuff” as important… or they consider it to be much less important than other things. I’d be lying if I said that doesn’t hurt sometimes.

But then, there are the people who are always there for me. Maybe they don’t care about dogs quite like I do, but they’re always there to support me. That’s such a special feeling… and I need more people like that in my life… I really do.

Kara & I

And now, I can add at least one more lifelong friend to the list. Michelle Sathe went well out of her way for me this weekend. She didn’t have to come to Meridian. She didn’t have to donate money out of her own pocket to my rescue. She didn’t have to bust her ass volunteering for me today, or offer to write about me in her next book. And she didn't have to let me hang out with her awesome pup buddy, Kara.

But she did all of these things out of the goodness in her heart… and I doubt she realizes the impact she had on me in her short time here. In truth, Michelle renewed my spirit… she really did. That’s the kind of gift you can’t repay… but here’s my attempt to do so…

PLEASE go to Michelle Sathe’s website, http://www.pitstopsbook.com/, and purchase a copy of “Pit Stops.” It’s an inspiring story that will make your heart soar. In addition, Michelle donates a portion of each sale toward a deserving rescue group like Lucky Dog Rescue. In doing this, she takes a lot money out of her own pocket and gives back to the animals. What an incredible act… by an incredible friend.

Published Author To Visit Lucky Dog Rescue!

On May 22, 2011, my amazing friend and published author, Michelle Sathe, will be doing a book signing event at Lucky Dog Rescue in Meridian, MS! I am so excited to finally meet Michelle and promote her incredible book: ““Pit Stops: Crossing the Country with Loren the Rescue Bully.” A portion of “Pit Stops” proceeds will benefit Lucky Dog Rescue! In addition, Michelle will be interviewing me for her next book, “Pit Stops 2!”

PUBLISHED AUTHOR & PIT BULL AMBASSADOR TO VISIT LUCKY DOG RESCUE IN MERIDIAN, MS!

(Los Angeles, CA) - Kara, a three year old pit bull mix saved from a high-kill Los Angeles County shelter, has been selected as the bully breed ambassador for the national “Pit Stops: Crossing the Country with Loren the Rescue Bully” book tour launching on May 9.

Accompanied by Kara, author Michelle Sathe will sign copies of “Pit Stops” at rescues, shelters, humane pet stores and dog-friendly venues from Santa Fe to Pittsburgh during their seven-week trek.

“Kara is such a sweet, affectionate dog, I just know she’s going to charm everyone she meets,” Sathe said. “Having a positive, hands-on interaction with a bully breed is instrumental in turning around the bad rap these dogs have. Like Loren, my canine companion in the book, Kara’s the perfect girl to show the world how great bullies can be.”

Sathe and Kara will appear for a book signing and adoption event at Lucky Dog Rescue in Meridian, MS, on Sunday, May 22 from 3-6 p.m. Run by Ashley Owen Hill, Lucky Dog Rescue specializes in rescuing pit bulls and other homeless dogs from shelters, as well as providing assistance to low-income pet owners in the area.

“Ashley and I met on Facebook, where she tirelessly networks dogs in need of homes through Pet Pardons and her own page. I’m so impressed with her blogs, her passion and her commitment to rescuing the dogs of Meridian,” Sathe said. “ Kara and I can’t wait to meet her and the residents at Lucky Dog Rescue. I’m also excited to tell Ashley’s story in Pit Stops 2, which will come out in the summer of 2012.”

“Pit Stops,” released in the fall of 2010, chronicles Sathe’s original cross-country journey in 2009 with Loren, a homeless pit bull from The Brittany Foundation dog rescue in Agua Dulce, where Sathe is a volunteer and board member.

Sathe, a features writer with The Santa Clarita Valley Signal, had turned 40 and decided to combine her dream of the great American road trip with a mission to promote pit bull awareness and homeless pet adoption. Together, Sathe and Loren crossed 29 states in 50 days, shining a light on animal welfare advocates and volunteers along the way, as well as exposing the brutal reality facing pit bulls and dogs who look like them.

“Bully breeds are the dogs most likely to be neglected, chained, abused or trained to fight, through no fault of their own,” Sathe said. “As many of the experts I’ve interviewed in ’Pit Stops’ have expressed, there’s also a dangerously inaccurate media bias on pit bulls. They’re sensationalized and misrepresented, and because of this, often miss out on the chance of becoming a family pet. Instead, they become a sad statistic in our shelter system.”

Thankfully, Loren’s story in “Pit Stops” had a happy ending when her long-awaited dream came true. Sathe is striving for the same outcome with Kara, whom she describes as a symbol of what happens far too often with pit bulls. “Kara was used as a breeder for years and then dumped at the shelter when she was pregnant. When her ten puppies were adopted, Kara was scheduled to be killed,” Sathe said.

Instead, Kara was rescued in the nick of time by shelter volunteer Kyle Harris, who fosters dogs at her Canyon Country home, in January. When Sathe saw Kara’s picture posted on Harris’ Facebook page, she knew she had found her new road companion.

“We’ve spent some quality time together to prepare for the trip and I just adore Kara,“ Sathe said. “Unfortunately, bully breeds can take some time to adopt out, so Kyle and I both hope that the exposure from the trip will help Kara find her perfect family.”

Sathe will blog about the duo’s adventures in real-time starting May 9 at http://blog.pitstopsbook.com . “I’m really looking forward to this trip and I think Kara is, too,” Sathe said. “We’re going to do our best to help these dogs, one mile and one encounter at a time.”

A portion of Pit Stop sales will benefit Lucky Dog Rescue!

Meet Michelle, Kara, Ashley, and the awesome adoptables at Lucky Dog Rescue, Sunday, May 22, 3-6 p.m., 8659 Hillview Drive, Meridian. For more information, visit www.luckydogretreatmeridian.com or www.pitstopsbook.com.

Painting With A Twist Fundraiser

Painting with a Twist in Meridian, Mississippi did a fundraiser for Lucky Dog Rescue on Sunday, April 17^th! Participants each painted a fun doggie painting, with half of all proceeds from the event going to Lucky Dog Rescue!

We had a packed-house for the fundraiser, with food, drinks, music, and painting! There was even a special Lucky Dog cake!

My best friend, Tiffani Minchew, came to the painting fundraiser with me! I’m not gonna lie… we were both a little nervous that our paintings would be a hot mess… especially because we had no idea what we were doing.

Initially, I was terrified to even touch my paintbrush to the canvas, knowing that I could easily screw this whole thing up in about 2.5 seconds. Tiffani, my best friend since I was 5 years old, tried to reassure me:

Tiff: “Ash, don’t worry. You’re the artistic one. Your’s is gonna be so good.”

Me: “Tiff, mine is gonna be sick, and you know it. It’s already sick, and I haven’t even started yet.”

Tiff: “Yeah, you’re right. You probably will mess it up…”

Me: “Tiff!?!”

Tiff: “What? I’m just agreeing with you. You probably will mess it up.”

Me: “Well, you’ll probably mess your’s up. So there.”

Tiff: “Yep. I’m agreeing with you on that, too.”

Apparently we had zero confidence in our painting abilities. But Marissa, our amazing Painting with a Twist instructor, helped the entire class create paintings that were each unique and beautiful! Shockingly, this was even true for both Tiffani and myself.

When we finished, Tiffani and I decided that we are practically professionals, as long as we have an instructor to tell us exactly what to do... and how to fix it if we mess up. But aside from that, we are pretty much artists. I will be selling my future paintings for no less than one million dollars.

We all had a blast painting, talking, and laughing. It was honestly the most fun I've had in a long time, and I highly recommend Painting with a Twist to anyone looking to have a great time painting with friends!

At the end of the class, I was presented with a check for Lucky Dog Rescue! I was beyond touched by the community’s support for these special rescue pups! It meant the world to me that so many people came out to have a good time and raise money for my rescue fund!

Thank you, Painting with a Twist, for this amazing fundraising event! It meant more to me than you could ever know, and the pups of Lucky Dog Rescue and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts. And of course, thanks to everyone who participated, especially my friends Tiffani, April, Casey, and Morgan!

In Loving Memory of Sheena Crumbley

Link to Sheena's Fund: Donate In Loving Memory of Sheena Crumbley

Sheena Crumbley was a beautiful person with an incredible love for animals. Sheena loved all animals, but she had a special place in her heart for dogs. Throughout her life, she opened her home to many dogs in need, giving them the love and hope they so desperately needed. She was an incredible human being.

Sheena was diagnosed with a brain tumor 11 years ago. She battled this tumor for nearly half her life, but she always had an incredible spirit. Two years ago, Sheena received the devastating news that she had brain cancer. Over the last 2 months, her cancer became aggressive…

And today, Sheena Crumbley lost her battle at 27 years old.

Before she died, the last thing Sheena did was sit in the field with her dogs and enjoy the sunshine...

Sheena's dying wish was to make a difference for dogs in need. Instead of sending her family food that won't be eaten or flowers that will die, she asked everyone donate to the dogs of Lucky Dog Rescue to honor her memory. Sheena wants the dogs who so desperately need help to have a chance at the happy lives they deserve.

These dogs did not ask for the pain they've endured, just as Sheena didn't ask for her pain. Sheena knew she couldn’t be saved, but she wants the dogs to live on in her memory.

Please, help make Sheena’s dying wish come true by saving many more lives in her name. In life and in death, this is what Sheena wanted.

Sheena Crumbley ~ March 31, 1983 - March 14, 2011

Click here to donate in Sheena's memory

Double City-Wide Dog House Drive

Chrissy Cheshire & I have launched a Double City-Wide Dog House Drive for the Jackson, MS & Meridian, MS areas. We are asking for donations of dog houses, hay, blankets, dog food, & dog bowls (& of course, monetary donations are welcome). In Mississippi, there are SO many dogs left outside with no shelter from the cold. It is truly heartbreaking, and far too often, law enforcement & Animal Control do NOTHING to help these dogs (despite the fact that neglecting to provide shelter for your pets is completely illegal). So Chrissy & I decided to launch this effort in each of our areas to provide some warmth for these dogs this winter.

The Meridian Star featured our Dog House Drive on the front page of Monday’s paper. The photo that ran with the article was taken of me with one of my rescue dogs, Susie (the one licking my face), and my own rescue baby, Riley. I adore this picture, because I think it captures my love for them—and their love for me. And of course, it illustrates the sheer JOY they bring into my life! I rescued Susie from the pound the day she was scheduled for euthanization. She is truly the most gentle, loving dog in the world, as you can see from the photo (See my Adopt tab for more info on Susie)! WTOK, the local news station, also ran a story about our efforts. I have to say, the community support for this drive has been amazing. I have received 12 dog house donations in Meridian so far, and many donations of hay, etc. If you are interested in donating towards our Double City-Wide Dog House Drive, please visit the chip-in link: Double City-Wide Dog House Drive