11.17.2011

No More Drama

I'll be honest. I'm not a huge fan of the "politics" within the animal welfare community. Well, really... I'd prefer to just avoid politics altogether.

If you aren't that heavily involved in animal rescue or advocacy, then you may not realize just how political things can get. But trust me... even within a charitable cause such as this, there are distinct, opposing sides... with very different opinions on the problem, its cause(s), and the solution(s).

And sadly... it seems that no one is willing to meet in the middle. But I'd really like to change that.

Before I go any further, let me just say this: controversy, arguments, and drama are not my goals. While I'm sure that today's post will somehow drive these things, that's certainly not my mission, and I really want no part in it.

I only decided to write about this topic today, because I'm tired of the endless fighting between so many members of the animal community. I've witnessed so much of it lately, and it's just so counterproductive.

For the most part, I try to stay out of the drama as much as possible... I'd rather focus on doing the right thing and making a difference. But obviously, I care about this cause, so I feel the need to take a stand against all of this useless, back-and-forth attacking that's been going around. So, here goes...

This negative behavior only hurts my cause --OUR cause. It's nothing more than a distraction from the real issues, and honestly, it only hinders our ability to take the positive actions needed to resolve those issues. And further... let's just be honest... people already think that we "animal freaks" are crazy enough as it is. Should we really prove them right??

No matter what you believe, or which "side" you're on... if you truly care about the animals, then you should care to end their suffering. Period.

So... even when you don't completely agree with the way that another person/group does things... if they're trying to make things better for animals, then you should at least be thankful for that! Maybe they don't always do things "your way," but that doesn't mean that they aren't doing the very best they can with what they have. "Your way" may not work for everyone... and your way isn't the ONLY way. I don't care who you are.

But that's the problem here. Too many people stand firmly at one extreme or the other, and so few are actually willing to acknowledge that their way isn't the only way

A lot of people have asked for my opinions on the following questions: What is the problem? What is the solution? Well, in short, here's my general view: There isn't just one problem to blame. There isn't just one solution to claim. And there isn't just one way to win this game.

Obviously, I could get much more specific on each of those topics. But no matter what, I'd never claim that my views represent the animal community as a whole. I'd never claim that my view of any issue is the only way that issue can be viewed. I'd never state that my perception of the solution is the only perception that matters. 

If that were true... if I really had all the answers, then I can promise you this much: I'd have this whole thing fixed... by noon tomorrow. Just in time for lunch.

And if you had all the answers, wouldn't you do the same?

That's why we need each other. That's why I won't simply dismiss everyone else's input, and only value my own. Because regardless of what I believe to be true, I'm not trying to solve this problem alone. I want help. I need help.

I try my very best to see all sides. I try to acknowledge each and every factor that contributes toward the problem, while appreciating each and every effort that contributes toward the solution.

That's why I refuse to take the approach of blaming just one group for this entire animal crisis, because common sense tells me that multiple parties must be responsible for a problem this large.

If you ask me who's to blame, here's my opinion: Is society to blame? Yep, society absolutely plays a very big role in the animal crisis. Are the shelters to blame? Well, the shelters have a very significant role as well. Are breeders to blame? Yep, breeders also provide a nice-big-honking contribution to this massive, heartbreaking problem.

I try to acknowledge each component, because the problem can't be solved unless all of the underlying issues are considered and remedied. A problem this complex just can't be simplified into one single contributing factor.

For example, simply blaming the shelters... well... that'll get you nowhere fast. Sure, there are some terrible shelters out there, but it's very easy to simply judge and blame the shelters for their actions, when you have such little understanding of the unique struggles they face... or why they face those things.

But here's the real kicker: when you boldly (and in my opinion, wrongfully) blame only the shelters (or anyone) for the entire problem, then you can be certain of at least one thing: those shelters won't be willing to hear anything else that you have to say. And there went your chance... to actually help them fix it.

The same goes for the solution, or should I say solutions (plural). There are many different ways to reach the ultimate goal here, and no single component can possibly fix everything. But each and every positive factor can play a necessary and critical role in getting us that much closer to (what should be) a shared goal. And each and every one of those factors is needed, in order to truly make a difference.

Another example: some people will argue that spay/neuter isn't necessary in reaching the goal of ending euthanasia. Well, in my opinion, it's senseless and reckless to deny the importance of this critical piece of the solution. But regardless, do I believe that spay/neuter the only solution? Of course not! There are so many other factors needed here: education, legislation, regulation, and so forth.

We all need to acknowledge and accept that there are many causes of this problem, and then... we must work toward the achievable solutions... together. There isn't just one problem. There isn't just one solution. There isn't just one person who has all the answers.

I think it's important that we all try to step outside of our own thoughts and feelings... and attempt to meet somewhere in the middle. This all-or-nothing attitude just isn't benefiting our cause in any way. I certainly don't have all the answers. Neither do you. That's why we need each other. That's why all of these animals... need ALL of us.

One final note, there's a BIG difference between choosing to respectfully accept differences of opinion... and quietly accepting injustice. If any organization is NOT actively helping to end the problem or contribute toward the solution, then no-- that's not okay, and NONE of us should stand for it.

50 comments:

  1. Extremely well said-I have seen rescue groups splintered by politics-who loses? the people-not really-but the animals they WOULD have rescued do-often they die! I can't rescue like I once did-physical limitations have prevented it-but short of a rescuer who becomes a hoarder where the animals lives are NOT improved (I watch a lot of animal planet :) ) rescue efforts need to coordinate in order to facilitate what we all want-effect change, save lives and educate people about what is happening under their noses...keep up the good work-there are shining moments that help to offset the sad masses of faces that die....

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  2. I'm with you! Our combined ultimate goal should be to help the precious 4 legged angels that God has sent to us!

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  3. Well said Ashley. I am very proud of you for having the courage to say what needs to be said. If any advocate that reads this post, and truly care about the welfare of the animals, then put aside the "EGO", and focus on working "Together". When your "EGO" gets in the way continually, hang it up, your done. Selflessness is the name of the game. Their is no recognition here; only the saving of innocent lives. You are right, we may not agree on each other tactics, but at the end of the day; did each of us give 100% of our effort to help save a life or did we spend it backstabbing and bitching about another group. When we become divided, the animals lose and that my friends is unacceptable. Keep up the great work Ashley, Our Creator put you here for a reason.
    Be Well,
    Robin

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  4. Amen, Ashley!!! Everyone needs to work together to save the lives of animals!!!

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  5. love this Ashley, as you know i've been dealing with this very same issue for over 1 FULL YEAR now!!! and now it's been taken to a whole other level, the court system. hope it doesn't go this far for you <3 love you and what you do. <3

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  6. Great points, Ashley...As always, you put into words what many of us think. I, unfortunately, am not in a position to adopt or rescue an animal at this time; we have 2 cats (1 of which is slightly retarded...) and a senior dog who does not tolerate other dogs. I used to advocate for the dogs on Pet Pardons until one day when someone posted on one of the sites that "advocates do nothing to help the animals. All they do is click on a picture and feel like they've saved the world." That one statement hurt. Some of us want to save the world but arent in a position to do so. There isnt a dog or cat (or other animal) that is homeless or abused that doesnt break my heart. I have gone to sleep in tears over animals Ive seen or heard about on all these online posts. It hurts to hear all the bantering between groups and people telling other people off...what benefit do the dogs get from all this arguing?? Thank you, as always, for your blogs. YOU may not think you are the only right one, and maybe literally you're not....but you are always honest and always sincere, and your one aim is to help as many animals as you can live happy, normal lives! I wish more people thought the way you do. Thank you.

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  7. Well said!! Very sad on all accounts :( God Bless you and your work that your doig!!

    Hugs,
    Veronica

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  8. If only people would choose to be a part of the solution instead of a part of the problem. We can all agree to disagree respectfully! I feel if there is a problem going on they need to get back to the root of the purpose, and that is to help our furry friends any way that we can. We need to put principles before personalities! You are an Angel Ashley and don't ever stop doing what your are doing!!

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  9. As always, your comments are tactful and well stated! I agree 100%.....I'm not as interested in HOW it gets done as I am THAT THE ANIMALS GET SAVED. The problem did not arise over night and there is no easy solutions. I thank ALL who work so hard for the benefit of these animals.....they are all angels in my opinion, no matter which rescue group they work for or how they accomplish their goals!

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  10. I come to your page because it gives me hope that there are more Ashley's out there. When I'm having a bad day, your words lift me up. You make me want to be a better person. I love animals and help them whenever I'm asked. I will give my last dollar to help you or anyone who is helping animals. I don't know you but I love 'you' for all you do.

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  11. Thank y'all so much for your sweet comments. I'm sure someone will come here to attack me soon, and that's okay. It will honestly prove my point, so I have my fingers crossed that it happens ;) haha.

    I want us to work together, not against each other. I want everyone to contribute. I want this problem to END... and SOON. I know y'all want the same :)

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  12. Very well said.Thank you.There is no room in rescue for politics.It should be what's right or wrong,or what works and what doesn't.Like Larry the Cable guy says" Let's Get er done!" lol

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  13. Ashley, often the only way to effect real and meaningful change is through legislation (e.g. Civil Rights Movement)so we have no choice but to be political. However, the drama of all the rescue groups attacking each other needs to end.

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  14. Here is something you will like: Harris County Animal Control Tornado Damage
    Today's tornado destroyed Harris County Animal Control but all of Harris County's private rescues rallied to help. Along with two Harris County residents, HSHC, Safe Haven and Ark Animal Rescue were able to house 5 dogs, 5 puppies and 11 cats. Harris County at its best during a tough time.
    By: Humane Society of Harris County, GA

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  15. I never said that politics aren't going to exist within rescue, or any arena. In fact, to your point, I stated that legislation is a very important piece of the solution.

    But am I a fan of politically attacking each other? Absolutely not. Am I a fan of "MY side is the only side that's right?" Nope.

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  16. Beautifully spoken and I TOTALLY agree.

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  17. Excellent points on all fronts, Ashley. As I read your post, it made me think of the ADA (American diabetes Association). My wife is a Type 1 diabetic, and she is very familiar with somewhat fragmented way that orgnaization runs. Sure, they are all united to help educate and find a cure, but layered in between are such varying differences of opinions that it actually gets minds off the goal at hand and impedes progress. I see it's the same thing with the animal rescue communty, and that truly sucks. Seriously, because while us human beings have to contend with delegation and tact and diplomacy to stoke egos to get the things we need done, the animals are the central characters in this tragic play and every single one of them is just like an innocent little baby: helpless and totally dependant on us to do what's right for them. To deny them unconditional love and support is disgraceful, and as grown folks I think it's about time we learn how to put our differences aside and address the mail goal that these organizations were created for in the first place.

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  18. My comment is too long for this forum, how can I link my response for you to read?

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  19. All we are saying "give peace a chance" lets all save animals, that IS the real cause. How ever anyone does it. Just DO IT!


    Deb Tampa FL

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  20. Thank you, Ashley. I work closely with my "kill" humane society. Are they working hard for their animals? I think so - they are also over-run. Do I think there could be improvement? Of course - it has happened other places. Am I going to stop collaborating with them? No way - they are good people in a tough situation. We all need to continually look at what and how we are doing thing, evaluate our effectiveness and change what needs to be changed to save lives.

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  21. Wonderful ....The task is overwhelming .... I pray and thank God for all of the wonderful people who do the best that they can to rescue these wonderful animals. Rescuing them physically and changing the laws and ending abuse and euthanasia is daunting and we need each other to be strong and united .....winning is each and every animal that lives and is taken care of and loved. Whenever people come together to do something important and humane and compassionate....'evil' comes to destroy it ...we can't let this happen. Thanks again and God Bless all

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  22. Someone told me the rescuers refused to pull a cat for her @ NYACC PODR because they didn't like the transporter. I saw 2 rescue organizations promise the same cat to 2 different people. On & on. I've seen nights when no rescue organization would help. I've seen the list split. And meanwhile the cats are being killed in huge numbers.

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  23. Very well said. Thank you for all you do to help critters!

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  24. I am so glad you said this! Working at an open admission shelter, I am constantly disheartened by comments on posts throughout facebook where people blame shelters for euthanizing, and call the shelter staff heartless and cruel for putting an animal down - many people do not know what it is like working on the inside of a shelter, seeing how many animals come through and what we have to see daily. I have had many occasions of going home and crying after having to say goodbye to a good animal who ended up in unfortunate circumstances. It is nice knowing that SOME people understand that there are more sources contributing to the problem, and not to attack the ones that are trying to do something. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!!

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    1. I'm sure you are glad she assuaged your guilty conscience because it is the shelters choice to kill not euth but kill. There are 200 cities now that are open admission no Kill saving at least 90%.The unfortunate circumstances was the good pet (which was probably just lost as 50% are but you were too lazy to try to find it's microchip or owner) was they ran into you. A person that didn't care enough to do what the no kill open admission shelters do to get them adopted. Someone that could push an adorable puppy into a gas chamber watching it scream in terror as it dies the 1st round and then put it through the process again if it didn't.

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  25. Beautiful words I think its the same in most walks of life really isn't it but I know I get that bit more frustrated than I need to be when I send an email asking for help and get a short/rude response, we all know its a heart breaking line of work but like you say we do it for the animals and much more could be accomplished if we all worked together. Love this, keep up the good work lady:-) x

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  26. This post made my day! In return, you'll find my donation in your inbox. Love you and your work.

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  27. Such a relief to see that all, at least locally, rescues are not the same. I had recently bowed out of rescue work because of the pettyness. I can not believe the hate between groups, and the cliques within groups. You try to help, but you get kicked in the teeth or alienated for your efforts. You want to save 1 dog and because you were friendly with this person years ago, the current rescue finds you 'inappropriate'. Honestly, and again, this is local to the Valley of the Sun, I have come to believe that the critters are no longer a purpose, but rather an excuse for certain people to assert their greatness.

    A little humility, pure goals and, (gasp!) working together, really could go a long way.....

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  28. Hey Ashley, I agree with this post! It's not just one person to blame and it's not just one issue to blame!! I do a lot of animal rescue volunteer work and i see what you are talking about 100% I love reading your Blog because I know I(or our group) is nor the only one who sees it) Why can't we just all be friends and attack our mission together!! :) I look up to you so much and would love to be as successful in life as you when I reach your age!!! I know how busy you are but would you be willing to look at the blog page I created for the rescue I volunteer for?? I run the page almost fully and I got the idea from your blog! I think you an am zing person! And I would love to meet you one day if I am ever near Lucky Dog Rescue! :)
    www.purrsnpupsanimalrescue.blogspot.com

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  29. Well said. I am not sure what it is about volunteer work that makes people believe so fiercely that they are right and others are wrong. I agree by focusing on the positive and supporting each other we can make a greater difference.

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  30. I think my first experience when I learned all animal rescue people were not friendly towards each other was my first booth for DDB at a Pet Expo in Chicago. I brought with me a little Min Pin I had just rescued. I lived in a small town whe...re at the time I could take him for his shots and all, but had to schedule his neutering. I brought him with me,( he met the family who would later adopt him there) and everyone, including the family who waited patiently until after he was neutered to adopt him, was told he was scheduled for neutering. Still, some loud mouth girl stood in the middle of the isle and screamed, "This rescue has a dog who is NOT neutered!" I cringed, and felt small and foolish, UNTIL, the woman in the booth next to me marched off to the other rescue's booth saying, "How could you let that girl act like such an ass? Not all rescues have the advantage of living in cities like you, they have to wait on a list before animals can be neutered!" The rescue apologized saying the girl was new and they would have a talk with her. Sometimes people act like jerks, and sometimes their words leave wounds that may stop someone who would someday become a great asset to rescue. More important than the words of those negative people are our words and actions of support, understanding, and guidance. I think about all the animals over the years who may not have been rescued had that one woman not stepped in and stood up for me. Compassion really should extend to all. -Dawn Ashby

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    1. Great story Dawn!! I deal with this a lot. So many times there is a *reason* why a pet might not be neutered at a pet event. If I catch it, I have to explain it, b/c you better believe there would be drama about it later down the road. Kudos to you Dawn for being brave and strong as always!

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  31. Very well written and compelling, Ashley. I ran a small humane organization some years ago and encountered this problem almost immediately. My plea then, now, and forever has always been the same -

    There aren't enough people who even care what happens to the animals. Those of us that do MUST stick together.

    I've never refused to consider someone else's position or try to reach a compromise as long as that person's intentions are good in wanting to help the animals. And I promise I never will.

    Bless You!

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  32. Kudos to you for saying what needed to be said here. I couldn't agree more. I hope people will listen and keep these words in mind anytime these types of disagreements arise. We have many enemies out there and we need to be UNITED against them so we can save all the babies out there that desperately need saving!

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  33. I must be extremely naiive. In my eyes, there is a senseless number of precious animals being killed, and it needs to be stopped......YESTERDAY!!! I don't see how there can be any other way to look at this. Pet owners need to be educated and have their pets spayed/neutered, they need to obey leash laws, and if they should find their pets pregnant....for pitys' sake, don't throw puppies out like yesterday's trash! (disgusting)! There are many, many people who would love to adopt a shelter dog, but for one reason or another, cannot. So if all those people would just donate what they can afford, this would be a wonderful way to offset some of the costs to keep these dogs alive. Ellen Degeneres and Rachel Ray have their own lines of pet food. They both love dogs, and I bet they'd donate.....I'm going to try to find an email address for them and ask them each if they would be so kind to donate. Oprah, Betty White, and Bob Barker are dog-lovers and I will try to reach out to them as well. Any source I can think of, will be contacted for assistance. I think most people are good at heart, and it makes them feel good about themselves when they can help the less fortunate. Ashley is one in a million, but she can't be expected to do it all! I don't see where politics fits into this equation, but as I said, I'm probably naiive in these matters. I hope my faith in mankind is not altered......

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  34. What frustrates me so much are the rules at shelters. For example, many shelters will not let out of state people adopt, and some animals can only be adopted by rescue groups while others are not allowed to be adopted by rescue groups at all? Why will some shelters not allow an animal to be rescued by someone or some group who is trying to save an animal from death row? IT MAKES NO SENSE!

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  35. Thank you for your intellegent response to an ongoing problem that overshadows the real purpose of rescue. Very well said. We have watched the brutal attack on a local SPCA only to find the attackers and their groups have caused the same problems for others in their area. What a shame. Guess that politics is more important than helping to save the animals. Check the facts locally before you decide not to help. The SPCA's reputation in their own aarea is spotless with local agencies. What a shame they are now suffering with no help.What will become of the animals now?

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  36. I don't have alot of money. My heart is big when it comes to animals. I don't have a 501 rescue. I rescue. I find homes for the ones I find, because I don't trust shelters. I'm just one person in my little world and it works. All my rescues live in wonderful homes because I keep up with them even afterwards. I was put on this earth to help the helpless. That is just what I do. If everyone on this earth would just help one animal, we wouldn't have to fight with each other. So simple, yet so hard.
    Keep up the great work Ashley, your way.....

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  37. So well said! I am in rescue, too and the "inner workings" and politics make me crazy! Our goal is all the same - why create drama over it! LOVE this post!

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  38. Thank you for writing this...The one thing that drives me crazy about "FB Rescue" is the reckless manner in which it's done. People sending dogs to god knows who and facilitating it for the the weirdos who volunteer to "adopt" a dog they know nothing about. That's hy I don't care for it anymore, I rescue in my own away, far away from FB.

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  39. Excellent commentary Ashley!! In light of recent controversies with two TN shelters, I had to share this on FB with all of my fellow rescuers. You have a gift of words and this needed to be said....thank you!

    Diane Finley

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  40. <3 U Ashley TY TY U really know how to say whats on ur mind Thanks and Woof Woof ( from the animals ) Thats there ty also

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  41. Thank you for your post! I think all the bickering needs to stop. We are all here for one main cause to save the animals. It should not matter what has happened in a persons past, or the he said she said situations that seem to be going on recently. The animals depend on us and if we continue to fight we are taking away precious time that could be spent saving them!
    Kristin Perrin

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  42. Thank you for saying this! I'm new-ish to the animal rescue world, and I agree with you completely. I don't know how many times I've had people say, "such-and-such is crazy, don't listen to them", whereas my experience was, hey, that crazy person saved a life and cares about animals - I'm going to listen.

    In the end, it has to be about the animals, first and foremost. And there is no ONE solution. There are a lot of solutions that are the keys to make this all work. So glad to read/hear that I'm not alone in being neutral on the rescue politics.

    Keep up the great work!
    Jill

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  43. Ashley you are such an amazing young lady. Your points are written clearly and are well thought out. If only people will listen with an open mind and TRY to understand what you are saying. Your writing comes from the heart and because of that I can't even imagine anyone criticizing you. Someone might but USUALLY harsh criticism comes from people who thrive on chaos, negative emotions such as anger and fear. I try to feel sad for them instead of angry. Those who follow their passion tend to be the most grounded and happy individuals, rich or poor, someone like you. Thank you for all that you do. Your heart is huge, try not to let the politics and all that brings with it weigh you down. Your future is bright as are the animals you care for. Bless you, Kathy Skees

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  44. Ashely, thank you for posting this. I just recently found out that the reason why I wasnt getting any response to help these two females that r currently staying in a empty home bc the owners lost their home an cant take dogs is bc i am friends with certain people that other people dont approve of so they wont help me in any way to network, raise funds to get them transported...NOTHING JUST BC IM FRIENDS WITH SOMEONE THEY DONT LIKE...OMG REALLY...IT IS UPSETTING. AND BC OF THIS THESE TWO DOGS R BEING PUT AT RISK OF GOING TO A SHELTER WHERE THEY WILL MOST LIKELY DIE. WE FOUND SOMEONE TO TAKE THEM BOTH BUT WE DONT HAVE THE FUNDS TO GET THEM THERE....ANYONE HAVE ANY IDEAS PLEASE LET ME KNOW. I AM SO VERY NEW TO THIS SO I DONT HAVE ANY RESOURCES.

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  45. I am very disappointed that, right now, as I type, PETA is in San Antonio, TX lobbying against San Antonio Pets Alive. I am actually pretty disgusted.

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  46. Wow, this came at a perfect time. I was feeling pretty down about some drama I saw during a rescue coordination last night and started second guessing if I wanted to open myself up to some new volunteer opportunities that have presented themselves. As you pointed out so well, if we fail we fail the animals. I think I will print this article out and keep it close at hand should I start feeling discouraged again. Thank you for such a thoughtfully written piece.

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