Dogs Deserve Better Success Tidbits from Our Mailbag

We are posting success tidbits from our mailbag that will be of interest to our readers.These are short tales of small successes (ie., the neighbor took his dog inside for the winter...) that update us on everybody's progress in freeing dogs from their chains or pens. OR an update on one of our adopted fostered friends!

1/04/07

I have rescued a dog who has suffered a severe injury from being tied outside. We believe the chain he was tied with got wrapped around his leg and as he struggled the chain cut his leg down to the bone. His leg had to be amputated and he is currently recovering from yesterday's surgery at the vets office. He is a good candidate for a new procedure using prosthetic limbs and we are hopeful that it will work out for him.

Even on three legs this guy is a star. I have been in contact with many people to find funding for the medical bills and have received an overwhelming response. Several people mentioned your organization, so I wanted share this story with you. If you'd like photos, a bio, details of Rudy's story, anything at all just let me know. I think he is a good example of the types of things you working to prevent. Thank you for what you are doing, I hadn't heard of your organization before and I think it is wonderful.

Amber

1/03/07

Dogs deserve better than life on a chain.

As a caring dog owner you know this. Unfortunately not everyone with a dog does.

A few months ago I stumbled across the following website:

http://www.dogsdeservebetter.com/

And then recently my neighbor got ANOTHER dog. Not sure why he wanted another, the other two he has live there entire lives in a pen. It is a large pen with food, shelter and water, but a pen none the less. His new dog was given free access to roam in a fenced area by his house....that is until he barked too much, asked for too much attention, jumped on the owner, WHO KNOWs. A cobbled together dog house was put up and the dog chained to it. The dog would cry half
the night begging for attention but it never came. He was destined to live, eat, deficate, sleep all in a 10' radius.

Seeing this really hurt the heart of my wife and I, so we contacted Tammy at Dogs Deserve Better. On Tammy's website she has several informational letters and brochures about why dogs should not be chained and left. That dogs just want to be part of your pack. They just want your love and in turn will return it to you 10 times over - unconditionally.

The letters are available to print and mail to anyone who might have a dog chained up 24x7. Door knob hangers and Christmas cards are available too, all trying to get the message out that dogs deserve better than life on a chain. Tammy also offers to send the letter from her home state, anonymously for you, just tell her where to send the info. It is good info, not abusive or inflammitory, it just gets the point across.

So, I e-mailed Tammy and asked her to send my neighbor some information. Within 7 days my neighbor had unchained his dog, gotten rid of the doghouse and moved the dog into the pen with the other 2 dogs. While a pen is not the ideal place, it is better than where this dog was and where he was going.

This note to you is to let you know that if you ever see a dog chained and living a very sad life, something can be done about it quite simply. Send Tammy a quick e-mail with the address of where the dog is and she will drop them a nice letter asking the owner to reconsider what they are doing.

-Pat

12/26/06

Just wanted to let you know that several weeks ago, I learned from my dad, that his neighbor has been chaining a 7 month old puppy. You have no idea how angry I was. I have called animal control (on 12/16/06) and they were no help. Then I decided to call again a couple of days later and got someone else on the line who told me she could send someone. I had to educate "her" and tell her that the governor signed the bill in to law banning chaining. She was nice and "checked" and said the law goes into effect January 2007 but after talking to me she said she would send someone to check on the dog. I have to call again today to keep on them. I won't give up.

I even wrote the landlord notifying him of what was going on and alternatives available to the renters. So far, he has done nothing. He should be held responsible. I'd like to support any legislation that would hold landlords responsible, once they have been given "Notice", of this "illegal activity - animal cruelty. I will
continue to call animal control and the local newspapers next week.

I will also write a letter to the local police department, animal control, section 8 housing authority as well. Out here section 8 (subsidized housing) renters can get evicted for illegal activity but I think it depends on the landlord. But we do have a section 8 task force that may have an impact. I will work on the letter the next
couple of days and mail it out so that the proper authorities hopefully read it directly after the 1st of the year.

I also plan to order some of your door hangers for our neck of the woods. And after the dog has been removed from the property, I will mail them a package of materials - anonymously.

You inspire me to stick it out and keep complaining and calling on neighbors who are neglecting their pets. They need to know it's NOT OKAY.

Evelyn

12/26/06

Just wanted to let everybody know- I went to my neighbors again and talked to them and their grandson. They let me buy the dog some straw for his doghouse and I think next step will be to put up the 12x12 kennel run. They can't let the dog in because they have an 85 year old grandmother living there that the dog scares and would knock over. The grandson doesn't want to give the dog up.

We had a long talk about howdogs have feelings etc. I told him he should consider bringing the dog to my house to run in the yard etc. He also promised me if he gets real nasty out he would put him in the garage (but I guess it howls and keeps the family up) I go over every day and play with the dog and give her treats etc . Ithink this dog may be on her way to a better life!

- Anonymous
.

12/24/06

I just wanted to update you on my fight with the animal control here after I complained daily about a dog that was on a short chain with no shelter, food, or water, and was in the hands of an elderly woman.

I was lost in the computer several times, and constantly told "they will go out and inspect the situation" whereas the dog was the same the next day. This went on for over a month of daily calls.

I finally went over their heads and called the county offices where I was helped by a lady, who when I told her what was happening, got me the right person to talk to and the help to cure this situation.

Even after I had told animal control that the Governor signed a bill in Sept. 06, regarding the chaining of dogs, they still would not pay attention to it.The last person told me that it would not be in effect until Jan 07.

I just want to say that there is always someone over these people, who evidently are "just workers!"I would have never known how to pursue this until I read about you in Best Friends, and the plight of groups getting help for these innocent
animals. I myself have two dogs, and one recently was a rescue. I know that they are grateful for the home that you give them, and don't ever think they don't know!!

Thanks,
Dian
California

12/16/06

I've been meaning to email you for the longest time to tell you that your site had inspired me to adopt a dog that had been penned outside for over a year. I got her late summer after viewing your site for a while...I saw her story on Craigslist, she was a Tennessee dog just wasting away in the rescuer's yard.

She had been taken home by the rescuer on her execution day in the Tipton County Pound, Tennessee (she was there for 4 months) and the rescuer's husband would not allow Mattie into the house...but I guess Mattie's life in a pen/doghouse was better than dying. We met the transport in RI (we are outside Boston) and with only a picture on the computer to guide us, we took home the absolute sweetest dog, my Mattiekins.

I feel that I was guided through this whole process by a higher power, because this dog could have been vicious, a cat killer, I mean we really knew nothing about her except what the rescuers told us. She gelled right into my into my family of 2 kids, 2 dogs and 2 cats as though it were meant to be!

I have followed your story of Doogie and sent letters that you asked. I admire everything you do, and I wish that I could do more.

Based on my own experience with Mattie, I see how much these poor dogs need love, good food and care. In the future I would like to foster or adopt one of your available dogs.

The way people treat their animals in this country never ceases to amaze me... I admire you so much for your courage and all that you do.

Patty
Massachusetts

11/30/06

Shortly after reading your story in the magazine, I called your 1 800 number and purchased some christmas cards to help support your cause. Ironically, the next week I adopted a "chained dog" that lived in my neighborhood.

I had noticed the dog for some time, as he was always tied outside. I live in North Toronto where the weather is not so forgiving in Summer/Winter. I spoke with the owners who said her child was allergic and they could not let the dog inside. She realized quickly that I and other neighbors noticed the sad/lonley conditions the dog was confined to. She accepted when I asked her if I could adopt Simba and give him a good home.

I am writing just to let you know, that one more dog (simba) is now out of the cold and is living in my warm/loving home with my 4 year old black lab Nelly.

Keep up the great work and together we can make a difference.

Regards,

Robyn

11/29/06

I just made a small donation to your website in honor of Midnight. Midnight was my neighbor's dog, he was the last of three dogs living in small pens and fed once a week or less. I say "was" because we just rescued him and now he is living comfortably and getting fat and happy at a shelter for pit bulls in Georgia. Without people like you, these doggies would not have a place be rescued to.

Thank you and good luck with your case.

Kind Regards,
Kim
Georgia

11/29/06

My dad told me he thought his cat had earmites, I searched online to find out how to tell; the site landed on led me to Care2 which eventually led me to the story of your arrest. (The cat didn't have mites:)

I have been following your story ever since, and today, I signed up for your email newsletter. I plan to order at least one kind of your educational material doorhangers, flyers etc) when I have the money. (I am not looking for free material - I just have a carefully managed low income budget; the money will come available soon!)

I also have been trying to convince my husband that tethering is not such a great idea. Since we have always chained our dogs, he is quite resistant to the idea. We do not typically leave our dogs chained for long periods in the winter, and now that I know how awful it is, I won't be chaining them for long periods in the summer either. We have plans to fence our yard next summer. Since I read about Doogie, it forced me to consider how our dogs feel being chained, and also to do more reading about the dangers and effects of chaining dogs. Our dogs are inside with us a lot more
now. We do need to leave them outside sometimes, when we know we will be away for several hours at a stretch, so I also have plans to get an outdoor kennel
for nice weather. My husband already built one in the basement for bad weather.

I can hear you thinking, "pens are no better!" and I know that, but I feel it's a step in the right direction. Our dogs are not abused, neglected, etc.They are well loved and cared for, they receive proper medical care. What they don't get is enough exercise, which causes the types of behavior "problems" that prompts my husband to want to keep them contained when we're out of the house. (I say "We don't walk them enough, we ought to live with the consequences" but it's his house too...)

My son is now eight months old, and finally my time is not consumed by babycare 100%, and I am able to give our dogs the attention and some of the exercise they
need. I hope this will eliminate the pooping in the house and destruction of our personal property that has been an issue since the birth of our son.

I am so glad I came across your story and am becoming educated about dog care etc. I hope to become the kind of dog-owner I always thought I was. Thank you for
getting me started, and I'm praying for Doogie that he never goes back to his abusers. I hope your trial goes well, but it sounds like you can take whatever anybody throws at you! You have my support because you stood up when nobody else would. No dog should live or die without dignity.

Jen

11/29/06

Tammy, kudos on rejecting the plea bargain. I'm glad you (and the dogs) are going to have your day in court to show the jury the video and tell Doogie's story. I hope the Arnolds will be called to testify so they'll have to explain why they deserve to draw another breath of life.

The chaining situation here in the rural areas surrounding Athens, GA is terrible. I ride my bike 20-50 miles a day, and I see more than I can count. Almost every other house has dogs on chains. Last night, during a one-hour ride, I found two more houses, one that has 3 puppies chained with no shelter. I talked to the family, but they were not receptive to my offers to help...just kept telling me "those dogs
are straight," which I think means they are ok. I talked until they refused to listen any longer.

I bought materials last week for a Mexican family to build a fence for their two chained dogs, Lily and Smokey. I rode by the house last night to see if the fence had been built, and it had. It looks really good, and both dogs are inside, both with houses, shavings, food and water. PAWS of Athens is providing the spay and neuter for both dogs next week. I believe this family truly does love the dogs but simply doesn't know what to do and can't afford it. I will give them the DDB literature, in Spanish, to read and to pass on to friends and family who may have dogs on chains. I'll send you pictures of the dogs in their new fence. They are so cute.

I moved to Athens from Atlanta in April, and I can't believe how prevelant chaining is here. It is overwhelming. The people are ignorant, poor and lazy. I will keep doing what I can do while trying to maintain my sanity.

Cheers to you and all the volunteers.

Chamblee

11/01/06

A while back, I sent out a story and pictures of the white pitbull that I was able to get fencing donated for. He lived on a chain on dirt but the fencing provided him with 300 square feet of free area. Well, this is what happened since that email.

I called the owners asking to come by to see the dog before I moved. Sure enough, the night before I called, the dog (whom they named Danger, but the dog is deaf so it doesn’t even respond) got loose. It got loose because they had to remove the fencing for a few days because the neighbor’s fence that I was connected to was getting taken down.

Anyway, the dog is missing, I decide to come by anyway and talk to the
people, sure enough they hadn’t put out flyers and hadn’t made any phone calls. I give them the # for reporting lost dogs and they say they will call but tell me they have NO white paper in the house to make flyers.

That was Monday. I call them on Wednesday to hear an update. Turns out they never called any authorities, using the excuse that “what was the point, the dog is deaf and won’t respond to anyone’s calls”.

On Wednesday my friend Megan stops by the shelter to look for Danger, he’s not there. I go to the shelter the next Monday….a full week after Danger’s been missing, thinking I am too late, I should have looked for him sooner. Well, Danger was at the county shelter on Monday!!! And he was scheduled to be put down the following morning at 6 am. This only gave me a few hours to get this dog out of there and save him.

I tell the shelter staff this dog belongs to my friend Megan, I am here looking for the dog because she is at work. They call Megan to verify it is her dog. (Megan is the one who originally called me about this dog being tied up months ago. She’s
known Danger for a long time) I was nervous that our plan wouldn’t work. Well it worked, Megan and I split the cost of $200 to save this dog from euthanasia, I took him home, gave him plenty of fresh food and water. Made him as comfortable as possible. A few days later, Megan takes him off my hands (because I am vacating this house in a few days). Danger is getting neutered today and hopefully will soon find his forever family that will love him and give him all the attention and training that he never had before. My husband took him on his first walk and gave him his first bath. He was amazingly good for his bath. He had never been that clean before. If those people only knew what became of their dog!!! They were content to let him die in the pound or die on the streets. Too bad they will never know. We don’t call him Danger anymore, I called him Baby, thinking he needs lots of babying now. I hope he finds a great family. Megan has connections around

That is my even better happy ending to this story! That was the best $100 I’ve ever spent.

Laurie

10/20/06

Hi everyone! I've been a member for a little while now, but I just thought I'd introduce myself. I figure everyone can use a little inspiration and to know that with a little effort, we really can make a difference, even in the life of just one dog. I am 19 years old, and have worked at the Hillside SPCA in Pottsville PA for 7 years now. Recently, around the middle of June, I started going on cruelties with coworkers. Another worker my age and I are planning to go for our cruelty officer training next time they have it (I think next spring).

In the past 4 months, I have seen a lot. Sometimes, there's nothing I can do about it. It can be frustrating, but I can't stop becausein that same amount of time I have helped make a difference in many lives. I made an album for the group called 'Hillside's Unchained Dogs'.

For example, Buddy, the Shepherd mix, who when we checked on him, could not see his ears due to the flies on them. When his owner found our notice, he called and decided to give the 13 year old Buddy up to us. Or there's Piper, who was living in a tiny kennel on the side of his owner's house. It looked like it hadn't been cleaned in years, and we couldn't get near him as he wanted to kill us through the fence. When his owner decided to give him up to us, we thought we might have to put him to sleep as for several days we couldn't even look at him. He sat huddled and terrified in his kennel at the SPCA, growling at us. Finally, we got him out for
playtime, and within an hour he realized we weren't going to hurt him. He became a completely different dog. He even became offleash for us. He has now been adopted, and is living a wonderful life in a house.

These are only a few examples, and while it may not be much, it's a lot to those few dogs.

Now, back to cleaning my guinea pigs. My girl, Winnie, was one of 139 we rescued from a filthy shed where they were being raised to be sold for human consumption. We waded through 6 inches of mud and maggots for hours over a period of 2 days to catch all the loose pigs. Winnie the Pig has now gotten over her URI, ear infection, and case of mites and is running around on my bed.

It's things like this that make me keep going on cruelties, even when we see some horrible things. It's definitely worth it.

Sorry this message is so long, but I just had to tell of our successes. Hopefully my other messages will be shorter!

Maureen
www.hillsidespca.com

PS I've also been a vegetarian for about 4 years now.

10/10/06

At my meeting last Tue., Julie, our leader, asked me if I had heard anything about Doogie, and I told her that the last thing that I heard was that Doogie had had a setback and that you were taking him to the vet. I hope that Doogie hasn't died. He deserves to have a good life with someone that can love him. I hope that he is given that chance, but at least he was freed from that horrible chain and found out that
some humans do care.

I have a dog living with me now that I rescued. I have named her "Frosty".

When Frosty was a baby and an adorable fuzz ball, someone threw her out onto the street. This family that I will call the "Smiths" took her home with them. The Smith's didn't really know how to care for the dog. After Frosty had lived a lonely, desolate life out in all kinds of weather, the father deserted the family for another woman.

The children, who were grown, fed Frosty whenever they happened to remember. They left her outside in the cold, in the rain, in every kind of weather. One night, I went home with the mother and "happened" to meet Frosty. The mother was going to put Frosty in the garage as it was bitter cold outside, and the son became
angry. They argued because the son felt the dog could be put back outside, but the mother finally put Frosty in the garage after she fed her. The son had been home all evening and hadn't bothered to feed Frosty.

Frosty came over to me and I petted her, and asked for a pair of scissors to cut out the mats on the back of her legs. I felt very sorry for Frosty and I also felt an instant attraction to her. She was so sweet. I talked to my husband about her and told him that I would like to adopt her.

I was having a hard time with the Smith family. The mother wanted to put the dog down, even though I wanted to adopt her. Her son was moving out and was going to leave the dog and she didn't want it - she didn't like dogs at all. I actually had to beg the woman to let me have Frosty even though she didn't want her and was insistent on having her put down. Finally, I wore her down, and became Frosty's
new mom.

Frosty had never been to a vet in her entire life. The Smith mother thought that Frosty might be about 11 years old. I had her totally checked out and discovered that she had cancer of the mammilla gland, and had never been fixed. So, my husband & I had her fixed and had her tumor removed. Then, she was given all her shots, and now we felt she was totally ours.

Frosty had lost her first daddy because he had deserted the family. Now, she absolutely adored my husband, and as soon as he came home she was in his lap with all 4 legs up in the air. Then, on Jan 9th, 2005, my husband died. It was a total shock to me as he had collapsed at work and never regained consciousness. Now, Frosty had lost her second daddy.

After my husbands death, my older son came home and stayed with me for 2 months using his sick leave. He bonded deeply with Frosty, and told me he would take her to live with him if he hadn't been in the Coast Guard Reserves and was constantly being deployed all over the world. Right now, he is stationed in Cuba.

On Aug. 11, my little Pomerian, that had been my companion for 17 years, died. That is why I am with Julie's support group that helps those who have lost their little fur babies.

Now, Frosty seems to know that again I am sad and crying. She comes over to me and has started licking me the way that my little Pom use to do. I am so glad that I have Frosty as my little friend. She has gained weight, and she seems to be in good health too, and I know that she is happy. She sleeps anywhere in the den that she wants, but never, never outside. She shares her home with my other little Pom and they never quarrel.

I have had Frosty now for about 2 years and the one thing that everyone who meets her always says is that she is so sweet. Yes, she is sweet, and we are so close. I have made Frosty a promise and I talk to her about it too. She will always have a home with me for as long as I live.

So, Tammy, this is my story about Frosty. It has a happy ending and I am praying that Doogie dog has a happy ending too.

Love, from,

Jeanette

6/26/06

About a month ago I was approached by a women that noticed the Dogs Deserve Better bumper sticker on my car. She said she has a dog, that she cares about but lives her life on a chain. She wanted us to take "Dolly", I gave her my phone number and took hers. For about 3 weeks we played phone tag and finally last week she called and we made arrangments to pick her up at her home. The owners traveled alot and I asked the owner who takes care of Dolly while you are gone and she said someone feeds her every few days and gives her water. At that point I knew we had to get Dolly right away. Bobby, my son and I drove to Cumberland Maryland last sunday in the driving rain to pick up this poor girl.

When we got to where Dolly lived the house the owners lived in was HIDEOUS. Dolly was probably better off living in a box outside. Trash everywhere, broken doors....rotton food everywhere inside this house and these people has a small child.....social services would have some questions for them.

The women took us out back to see Dolly. There she was a wet, muddy fluffball of a dog with lively bright eyes wagging her tail with a smile on her face. Her lead was only about 4 ft long, the food in her bowl must of been in there for a week...it was mush, no sign of a water bowl and her collar was duct taped to her neck. We took her off her lead and walked to the car.....Dolly did not even look back....she was soooo happy to be out of there.

Dolly rode on our laps the whole way home...enjoyed the car ride even though the owners said she gets car sick...she did not get sick.

Dolly is a aussie/ boarder collie mix about 1 year old. I took her to get spayed today and all her yearly stuff (vaccines,heartworm test,fecal) She has never been to a vet. We have a few people that are interested in adopting her. She is very smart....spent the night free in the house...no accidents...the previous owners said she chews stuff up and went to bathroom all over the house, no evidence of that here! She loves my children and the other pets in the house.

Dollys life could have been MUCH different, She may have spent the rest of her life chained to a delapitated box behind a trailer only be fed when they felt like it. But last night our family took all the dogs to a local park and she slept on the couch with Luna (her sister)another story.....the universe works in mysterious ways!

I wanted you to know the difference a "bumper sticker" made in Dolly's world. Thank you!!!

Take care,
Kari

6/21/06

First of all, THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO FOR DOGS! Your website is a great way to spread the word and provide tools to those who want to be advocates for animals.

My husband and I recently rescued a chained dog in our neighborhood. Cosmo is approximately three years old and was chained his entire life.

About six months ago he began to break loose and always ended up in our yard, I guess because we had two dogs and he was curious. The last time my husband walked Cosmo back to his house the owner agreed to let us keep the dog.

Since then Cosmo has been treated by a vet, been to the "beauty parlor" and become a member of our family. He has learned to walk on floors, go up and down stairs, ride in the car, and play with our other dog, Buffy. We love him dearly.

I don't have a "before" photo, but hereis a recent photo of Cosmo.

Best wishes and many thanks,
Anne in SC

6/6/06

I am writing to tell you how "Dogs Deserve Better" has really hit home for me. I've been a Humane Society Police Officer in Washington County for almost 7 years, and most of the animal abuse complaints are about dogs on chains. The photos on your website look just like many of our animal abuse cases. Dogs on tangled towing chains, ropes or extension cords, surrounded by mud in the warm weather and ice in cold weather, filthy mud-caked pots and pans, well, you know the picture.

I used to jokingly say that I do a lot of dishes, because before I could give a dog any water, I always had to wash those filthy pots and pans, buckets, margarine tubs, refrigerator drawers, hubcabs, whatever lame receptacle was there, IF indeed there even was any receptacle at all. I don't even want to get started about the "shelters" - an overturned wheelbarrow, rotted plywood propped up against the side of a garage, crumbling rusted out steel drums - well, you know all about it. If I didn't see it with my own eyes, I never would have believed it.

Your slogans and messages are very powerful. Keep up the excellent work!

You'll be hearing from me again very soon!

Sincerely,

Susanne Lewis, Member
Board of Directors
Washington Area Humane Society
Post Office Box 66
Eighty-Four, PA 15330
(724) 222-PETS (7387) (shelter)
(724) 344-5312 (cell)

5/25/06

Tammy - just wanted you to know - after forwarding your video to everyone
I could think of, I've been getting back responses like the one
below...

Your video (I Am Unseen) is SO powerful - so moving. It is prompting people to DO
SOMETHING in their own communities.

Our own Animal Control Lieutenant here in Savannah was showing it to
media - and then taking it to the next city council meeting!

GREAT WORK!!!!

Terry Wolf
Southern Comfort Animal Rescue
www.southerncomfort.petfinder.com
Savannah, GA 31405

5/10/06

I had always told my husband that I would never get a dog until we had kids so that I could stay home with all of them........well, he came home with a 4.5 week old Pitbull puppy. This tells you about the breeder---------Rocky was the last puppy left of the litter and he was less than 5 weeks old!!!!! I was hooked on this precious, little, little baby. I went part time at my job and Rocky became my son.

Everyone told me that pitbulls were horrible. They said he would attack me for no reason. Whatever it was, I heard it. So, I began to read. I read and read everything that I could find about the breed. Rocky went everywhere, dog park, pet store, Christmas in another state, vacation in Florida. I did everything they said to do and my boy turned out to be an angel (with devil horns on occasion). He loves people, dogs, kids, cats. He's a good boy.

Well, I continued to educate myself on the breed and came across a statistic that only 1 in every 600 pitbulls will find a happy home. The rest will be euthanized in shelters or killed by dogfights.......etc. When I looked at my boy, Rocky, I just broke down and cried. Reading that broke my heart! I could not imagine putting 600 pitbulls (or any other kind of living being) together and picking out 1 that gets to live.

So that sparked me to assist a friend of mine, Christy, with her rescue efforts. I told her that I would foster or rescue pit bulls. I have had 4 so far that have gone and stayed in very loving homes. That is how I found out about DDB. She told me that it was a great place to get information and funding to help get dogs off of chains.

I have ordered the brochures in english and spanish because I live in a lower-income community. I have learned that this type of area is so badly in need of
information about chaining dogs. I have pitbulls behind and beside me that both live on chains. How horrible! It breaks my heart everyday to see it! The people on the side of me admit that they used to fight their dogs in Texas. I almost threw up when he told me that!

When I take my dog and foster dogs for walks, the area is lined with neglected ogs, mostly Pitbulls. I am so afraid that the Breed Specific Legislation will try to take my sweetie from me. These people don't realize that what they are doing is why my baby has a bad name. It feels so hopeless, but I am so grateful for every little bit of difference that I can make.

I ended up with Petey (the dog you gave me the crate advice for) by sending this signature out on my personal emails.

And my friend told me about her neighbor dog, Petey. This signature also helped another lady at work because she now knows that it is wrong to chain her dog. She will take her for walks and let her off of the chain from time to time. I know it is not
ideal……..but at least she thinks about it!

So thank you for inspiring me to help get those poor sweeties off of the chains. Your site has helped me tremendously.

Thanks so much!
Cynthia

4/12/06

This guy found a rescue today, we transported him this morning to a place much better than the " outside dog " life he had been living for the last 6 years on a chain. He is very thin and his ears have been chewed badly. He snapped my finger while I was giving him pig ear treats on the ride, put a hole in my glove to remember him by. I guess he hasn't been hand fed many goodies in his life. He's a big sweetheart who just needs to learn some manners. It's a good feeling and I'm happy to be a part of DDB, thanks for the motivation and encouragement to go out and help these sweet souls.—Marie Belanger, DDB Indiana rep

I had a hard time getting started because it is difficult to do this by myself.  But today I took Parker,  my oldest GSD, with me and I was inspired!!   In 2 hours we got 14 different addresses with 17 dogs either chained or penned.  Tammy, setting the 10-address requirement for reps was a genius move on your part.  I don't think I would have been able to do this otherwise....—Pam Cheatham, GA rep, in regards to the Valentine campaign

I am forwarding a nice story about a dog that was chained in Miami.  I sent a Spanish brochure and I had my friend, Emily, translate my letter that I send with the brochure into Spanish.  I followed up on the dog because of the Valentine campaign, thinking we could send a Valentine. Apparently, in conjunction with the DDB literature, the whole neighborhood started getting involved and now this dog is going to doggy daycare 5x a week and sleeping inside. —Heather Carpenter, DDB FL Rep

The local representative for DDB wrote a letter to the editor in our local newspaper, expressing her concern about the cruel act of chaining dogs. She urged the community to take an active part by assisting in getting a law passed in Ohio eliminating the chaining of dogs. I will share this website with others and hopefully one day no animal will suffer any harm from the hands of humans.—Linda

I just came from our 4th ordinance committee meeting and I was delightfully surprised by the head of the committee. We were going over our proposed ordinance on animal control, going over all of the wording and making sure that all was in order. When we got to the section on chaining/tethering and penning, the head of the committee said, and I quote " we will be discussing this section with the mayor again, we are considering NO TETHERING at all. The proposal we had was willing to limit to 1 hour 3 times a day or a total of 3 hours in a 24 hour period. My message of enforceability has finally gotten through? The PowerPoint show was very enlightening to the people who don't see the level of neglect that these dogs endure daily. There were a lot of the pictures that I sent to you, and a few more for good measure. These were all pictures taken here in Marion just in the last year. What an impact it had. God Bless You for pointing me in the right direction.—Marie Belanger, Indiana DDB Rep

The local representative for DDB wrote a letter to the editor in our local newspaper, expressing her concern about the cruel act of chaining dogs. She urged the community to take an active part by assisting in getting a law passed in Ohio eliminating the chaining of dogs. I will share this website with others and hopefully one day no animal will suffer any harm from the hands of humans.—Linda

I have one of DDB's posters hung in the window at the law firm I work at. Lots of people stop to look at it. I printed some of the graphic pictures from your website (after I stopped crying) and I hung them next to the poster. I hope seeing those pictures open people's eyes! I was sad and infuriated at the same time. I ordered a DDB shirt (the one with the dog crossing out the Beware of Dog sign. I will wear it proudly and hope it provokes questions. SO many animals are mistreated here in South Florida. Keep up the GREAT work, warmest regards to all at DDB.—Carol Ann Moor

Ok, here is a first for me. I was contacted a couple of weeks ago by a girl in my area about a chained dog she passes by everyday. She asked if I would send some info out and I did. The "owner" contacted Tammy and then myself.  Mika and I (the girl who found the dog) went over to meet the owner tonight.  He said his wife got the dog as a gift for their son 5 years ago.  He thought at the time it was a bad idea.  Well long story short, the dog has been on a chain for 5 years.  The owner and his wife are divorced and he was so happy that we had sent him literature.  He was a pretty decent guy and acknowledged that his dog deserved better and that he knew it was not right for the dog to spend his life on a chain.  He agreed to give us the dog along with all dog supplies (including dog house) and sign the DDB paperwork.  He also said he would give a donation to us to care for the dog.—Denise Bitz, NC Rep

This is very exciting for me. I've been trying to get a dog off of a chain for about 2 months now, and his "owners" finally agreed to turn him over to me. He is about 13 years old and is a lab mix. He has always lived on a chain and has never been to the vet. The "owners" got him for their son when he was 2 but decided he should be outside. Slowly his dog house (which was horribly rotted) got moved farther and farther from the house. They got another dog about a year ago that lives in the house and this is the "good" dog, so they agreed they would release Sammy to me."—Rebecca Cooper, Kentucky DDB rep

I have my first success story! The chained pit that I had posted about earlier has been taken into foster care by the pit bull rescue! This poor boy was chained to his dog house in a vacant lot!—Julia, DDB Louisiana rep

I just wanted to let everyone know that I got published in the newspaper, here in Alamogordo, New Mexico. I am so excited, I didn't even realize that they published it Wednesday until a teacher came up to me at my school today to tell me that she was so impressed with my article. I Jumped up and down and ran to the school library and low and behold it was there.:) Another teacher came up to me and said that she keeps animal control on her cell phone because of all the animal abuse she sees around her, she said that it makes her ill what happens in this town.–Nadine Graves, DDB New Mexico Rep

I just wanted to shoot you a quick email and let you know how impressed I have been with your organization. I first came to know of Dogs Deserve Better through an email from my local SPCA about your Valentine's Campaign. I immediately went on your website and sent a donation. Three days later, my welcome packet arrived in the mail. It was very professional, and even included a laminated membership card! I have since spoken to my area rep in Midlothian, Virginia, and given her two addresses where I have seen chained dogs. She returned both of my phone calls within about 5 hours, and followed up with me after she had sent letters.—Whitney Jenkins

Yours is an organization that has made a wonderful difference in a chained dog's life and we must keep up the good work. I will try to donate fairly regularly. I don't donate to people causes, and some of the animal organizations don't have a whole lot to show for the money they get so I only donate to a couple regularly now and yours will be one of them. Thanks SO VERY much for all you do for the animals and one day our grandchildren may not know what it is like to see a chained
animal!!—Pam Moore

Between my DDB partner in crime Stacey McDermott and I four dogs have been rescued in the last month or so. Also...there is a new Stacey...Stacey Sarros who has recently joined forces with us and has already got meetings set up with two neighboring counties to talk about trying to get better ordinances there based on the ones we now have in DeKalb Co. She is a real go getter!—Heidi Pollyea, DDB Atlanta GA rep

I have long been repulsed at the way humans bring home a sweet little puppy just to chain them in the yard for the next 10+ years. As, of course you know, dogs are pack animals that need their pack. What is wrong with people that they cannot see what they are doing? It was literally a complete accident that I came to your web site but no coincidence! I will spread the word as much as I can! Thank you thank you thank you!!!—Heidi

I have the dog from Bryant, AL.  Sara picked her up yesterday and we met on the interstate.  She's not a puppy - probably close to one year old.  Part Golden Restriever, a touch of Chow, and maybe shepherd.  She's quiet beautiful and very very sweet.  She was so happy to get out and run on my acre.  I kept her on a leash for a while then let her go and she came right back.
 
She and my dog played for hours yesterday rolling and tumbling in the yard and they both slept soundly last night. I brought her inside and I could tell she's not been inside a house at night.  She was very hesitant to come in. But once she did, she made herself right at home.—Linda Morgan, DDB AL rep

I am the one that kept asking for advice about "Mickey".  With all your advice and encouragement my daughter had the courage to work on her behalf. Mickey is a free girl now and will be heading to a great home that we found for her.  She will be with a wonderful person that will give her all the love and attention that she deserves. Thanks for all your hard work and for spreading the word enough to encourage us to do what we thought was impossible.—Karen McGee

I don't know if it was the information I left or the valentine I had sent but this cute, rambunctious yellow lab FINALLY got a walk today! The owner stopped me to talk about dogs (I was cautiously friendly) and told me they were walking the dog! I saw it being walked and offered information about PetSmart Training to help with the pulling etc. (hopefully the pulling won't keep them from walking her again). I feel so much better about this!—Vicky

Another person relinquished their Doxie to another home after years of living outside....even during the hurricanes! She said the dog was supposed to be a mini doxie when she bought it (her first mistake), but the dog grew to be a standard size and too big to keep inside....geeez....20 pounds...too big???? So she thought rather than finding another home for the dog or taking the chance it would be put down if she took it to the shelter, and lose the money she paid for the dog, she'd keep it outside in the Florida heat and hurricanes....Yep...that makes sense. Well the little guy is living inside now and being potty trained.

5/5/05

This is a letter from the mail carrier that was instrumental in Lucy a chained dog getting set free and finding a new home. Sandy saw this dog every day on her mail route and stepped up to help her life become more tolerable. 'The first time I saw Lucy she was chained to a tree with 7 puppies nursing on her. She did not have a collar on, just the chain you connect to the collar wrapped around her neck. The chain had irritated her neck and the fur was missing under the chain. Also, the chain was so short she had to sit where she had to go to the bathroom. I found homes for the puppies, had Lucy spayed and a rabies shot and got a long chain with a spinner on top so she could have more room to run. Then I ran into her owners at Hardees and they told me she was at the pound and they did not seem interested in saving her. Barb, Jon and ARFnets, I am so grateful. Lucy had a horrible life. Thank you, Sandy'—Barb Bleidorn, Tennessee DDB Rep

I can not tell you how happy I was to find this picture of Snookie for adoption on petfinder...I am the next door neighbor of Snookie's old home...we watched with delight as Snookie was taken away that Sunday afternoon, we had watched for too many years that poor dog chained for 24/7. It broke our hearts.

I was the one who had the first pamphlet from "Dogs Deserve Better" sent to them anonymously a year or so ago. I kept hoping and praying they would understand. [They were then sent a Valentine this year.]

I used to take her over her treats, and sometimes when she would get loose she would come over to my house. I used to look into those sad eyes and tell her I'm trying to get her out of there...so was very glad to see they were finally willing to find a better home for her...I cried when I found this article on her cause I been wondering how she was. I printing out her picture and hanging it on my fridge.

I don't know if you are one of the people who will be in contact with Snookie or not but if you are, tell her I'm rooting for her and praying she finds a loving home and lives out the rest of her life never chained to a dog house or freezing in the cold winter rain...

Thank you for the wonderful job you do in helping rescue these wonderful creatures of God.....—Cathy Miller [Thanks to Gettysburg, PA rep Chris Ameduri for working to get Snookie and fostering her.]

Also wanted to tell you that sending the valentine to my neighbor did the trick. They took their beautiful Chow off the heavy chain (the kind tow trucks use!) and fenced in a large area of his yard and now he has plenty of room and much better care. I am thrilled. Thanks for all your hard work!—Cynthia Duros

I have good news on the rescues I did before I was officialy a rep. The boxer/sheperd that I found a home for is doing great he is holding weight, and in the house most of the time. The owners can't fence the yard because it is a rental, but they only tie him out to go potty a couple times a day. He looks and acts much more happy than he was at my neighbors house. My neighbors still have one dog but he is kept in the house almost all the time, he is a rott. They are training him, and he only goes out to go potty also.

—Linda Erickson, Wisconsin DDB Junior Rep

3/25/05

I received a frantic phone call today from the gal who called me wanting her neighbors to get the information packet from you. The gal was just sure the husband had taken the dogs out and shot them. It turned out another concerned neighbor had taken the dogs to be bathed. Together the neighbors are now going to start walking the dogs....HURRAH!"Keep up the GOOD work. —Linda York, Pet Pals

Just wanted to let you know that our City, Elgin Texas, has passed ordinances against chaining unless using a pulley system or a swivel tie out and even then there are multiple restrictions and the City tightened up all of our animal control ordinances. Thanks for all of your help.—Taralynn Mackay

This organization has truly changed my life. Since the day I was born, I believe dogs were meant to be a part of me (my first toy was a stuffed dog, and I still have it 41 years later). I just didn't know how to focus my energy. DDB gave me the answer. Thank you for starting an organization that is now such a part of me.—Lynne Gillis, Maryland Rep

Thought I'd let you know that the owners of this chained dog finally brought her inside - after 2 years! I guess the pressure finally worked.—Elizabeth Nicely, Virginia

As I type, he is sleeping by my feet. He's frightened of everything. Took several hours to coax him into the house the first time. He's getting more comfortable. Last night he wandered into the livingroom for the first time. He has his own bed and sleeps quietly all night. He has good manners and is grateful for everything. Tomorrow he goes to the groomers...probably the first bath he's ever had...and Wednesday he's scheduled for his neuter. I'm praying he's not HW+, but if he is, well, we'll deal with that as well.

You are an inspiration and have done wonders to bring this awful abuse to light. God bless you for all you do. Just wanted to share a happy ending with you.—Bobbye, TX

I got my first real assignment the other day. My husband had been to a property auction and informed me of a dog that was chained up to the house next door. I drove by, got the address and sent the owner a letter and information...

He just called and was so sorry and has purchased 30 feet of chain link fencing. He said that he had lost his wife a few months ago and had 3 children, so things had been kind of difficult for him. I offered to meet with him this Saturday to see how much of an area we could chain link. I will also help to get him some more chain link as well as the help to get the fence up.—Jamee Suarez, Oklahoma

I wanted to let you know that I sent one of your letters to a neighbor of my mom who penned their black female Lab outside and ignored her. After I sent the letter another neighbor of my mother's saw the woman and told her off about her dog. They took the pen down and moved the dog in. I won't hesitate sending another letter to anyone I see having a dog in the same situation. I wrote you before that I had rescued a dog chained out and the only way I got him was $100. He is spoiled rotten and the most loving dog to my husband and I. I support you 100%.

—Karen

2/27/05

I have written to you a couple of times concerning a chained dog in my neighborhood that I was so concerned about. I just wanted to let you know I finally got it today from the owners. It makes me feel so good to see this dog finally being able to walk freely.... to be indoors from the inclimate weather.... and most importantly, to see it being loved on and given the attention it deserves."

— Melva

1/4/05

I just wanted to let you know that—through some very persistent wheedling—the chained retriever I wrote to you about has become, for the most part, an inside dog (his owners take him in at night and another neighbor and I dogsit him during the day). He is also getting walks and lots of affection from us, and I think his owners are making more of an effort as well. Thank you for being an inspiration!—Lisa

I wrote to you a few months ago about my brother's neighbor in Florida who left his dog out 24/7 even during the hurricanes. Here is a happy tail-after pleading with his neighbor, my brother now has custody of the dog, her new name is Frances as she was rescued during hurricane Frances. She now lives indoors and plays with my brother's other two dogs. She loves sleeping on the sofa and gives lots of kisses to my brother. Up to the point when my brother took her in she really did not have human interaction and was never inside a house. I just wanted to update you and say keep up the good work!—Linda from Pennsylvania

I almost cried today( tears of happiness for a change)-Kim, Sandy's daughter, who I teach at the local high school here, came to school today with the light blue baby doll "No Chains" T-shirt on. To think that your message is being worn by high school students just thrills me. She was so proud of it. I asked her if kids questioned her about it and she said yes. She told them about the website and the program.

Let's keep doing all we can-thanks for the inspiration! — Lynne Gillis, MD rep

I e-mailed you recently about the older German Sheperd named Lady that we wanted to find a foster home for. Well, I have just received the best Christmas present I could have ever hoped for. I spoke to her owner again and she has decided to bring the dog back in the house! She is currently getting along famously with her new puppy friend and her hips are doing ok too. I simply can't believe the wonderful changes just speaking to a person can bring about. I am so glad I found the courage to talk to my neighbor. Thanks for your encouragement. Merry Christmas and may the New Year bring about new laws and new beliefs for all the chained dogs.

—Cintra

12/4/04

Dear Michele (ddb rep Texas),
I am writing this to let you know how powerful your link to the fate of Albert was. It was an incredibly heartwrenching story for me to read. I do agree that people should be more responsible with their pets. I teach in the innercity in Cleveland, Ohio. I go to bed every evening thinking and worrying about those poor animals who are either chained up out in the cold or are just strays. Thank you for showing there are many more people in this world who care than there are that don't.

Rick

12/2/04

I haven't been in touch with you for a long time, but I do read your newsletters.

Shiva is doing well (she was adopted from DDB in Feb. 2004). I know she has gotten taller. She has gotten off the shoes a little, but still loves cordless phones (3 so far), and anything else she can tear up, like throw rugs. She loves to play tug of war. She likes to play fetch, but she's not too keen on giving it up. She is an escape artist, so we are constantly checking and rerigging the fence. She and Nolly have not really hit it off, but she and Alder developed a sort of understanding. She loved him licking her face and ears. She is very protective of me, and jealous. My Vet says that she is part Great Dane. That seems the most logial answer to me.

Alder has had a cough off and on for quite awhile. It was always treated as allergies, and he responded to medication. I contacted the Vet for more medicine. It did not work. I took him to the Vet. She gave him an antibiotic, but took blood because he was so pale. The results indicated a tumor or a hemmorhage. I took him back for an ultrasound. His liver and spleen were clean. The xray showed a mass at the base of his lungs, spots on his lungs, and his lungs being collapsed by, probably, blood.

I stayed with him until after he was put to sleep. It was very hard. He was my best buddy. That's why it was so important that I have Shiva. She has big shoes, or should I say, paws to fill?

The last couple of nights that Alder lived, he spent a lot of his time lying at the bottom of the basement steps. Often, Shiva would go down to check on him and lay beside him.

It is so nice to come home at night and see someone peeking out the door at me. I think of you often, and am so grateful for my newest friend.—Bonnie

11/30/04

Attached please find a picture of a pitbull picked up recently by our local dog officer and brought into the St. Lucie County Humane Society.

The dog officer spotted "Padlock" (my new name for him] in the back yard of a house as they were driving by. The owner apparently was chained and padlocked so no one would steal the dog as we are in an area that has a problem with illegal "dog fighting".

I am the director of a small family foundation and am trying to educate the local authorities and people in our community on the horrors of "dog fighting" and also implementing more laws and licensing especially in regards to fighting and tethering.

I am so pleased with your website and have gotten a wealth of information and ideas from it.

I thought you may want to publish "Padlock"'s picture on your website along with all the other pictures I saw there.

Thank you so much for your very informative web site and information. I will do my best to spread your word.

God Bless,—Susan Parry, C V Parry Foundation

10/15/04

I just wanted to share this little success story my husband and I have. We were inspired to action because of the list and enabled by the many suggestions on how to approach owners of chained dogs.

Nemo was not a chained/penned dog but a neglected one. He would stray over to our yard and jump up against our fence wanting to play with our three (sm, md, & lg) dogs. He is a med. sm. long-hair mix who is friendly and playful but very hand-shy. After several attempts to invite him into the yard, feed him, or find his owners, we finally saw a neighbor apparently looking for his missing dog and reunited them.

It turned out it was a family across the street who live in a trailor and we almost never see....

Today, [after many hours by Susan and her husband], Nemo is neutered, vaccinated, has a new collar and his own proper ID tag. They are still far from ideal dog caregivers, but they are really making the effort, and Nemo is so much happier, calmer, and healthier!

I needed to share this story because we would have had no clue how to help Nemo had it not been for the information we found at Dogs Deserve Better Inc. All battles, even the little ones, mean the world to the dogs in the middle. Your advice in dealing with owners enabled us to go from frustrated well-wishers to active, helpful friends who could make a difference."—Susan

2004 Letters

I have a Christmas Miracle to share with you... There is a dog that is on my route home from work that I have been trying to help for several months. This dog had existed on a maybe 3 foot chain, bare bone skinny, and extremely neglected. This summer I really battled with the owners and animal control to try to get this dog away from these people and out of his horrible existence without success. This Winter has not been any different - every night I drive by I would say a prayer to God, Goddess, The Universe, anyone who would listen, that he would have a good meal and a warm night. Anyway,I won't elaborate because I know you get it; different dog, same story.

Well, last night, Christmas Eve, I was driving home and who should be standing right in front of me in the middle of the street, my dog, chain and all still attached. Three cans of dog food, four cans of cat food, a hot dog, and a slice of turkey meat loaf later, he was in my truck on his way to his new home. I laughed, I cried and was overjoyed. We ceremonially cut his collar off and I told him that never again would he be without warmth, food, shelter and love. I feel so blessed this morning and wanted to share this story with you. We have a lot of work to do given his severe neglect but in the short time he has been with me he has already made huge progress. He let me pet him last night and some of his fear has disappeared.

I may need some advice about the best way to bring him into the home and socialize him with my other dogs but until then, thanks for being there so that I could share my story with someone like minded.

Creele
Albuquerque, NM

Dear Tammy:

Congratulations! You deserve this award. I also have good news re: Bear who I told you about a few months ago. I recieved permission to take Bear in at night, during this cold spell, which makes me very happy. His first time ever being in a house. I slept on the floor with him, and had to keep my other animals in the bathroom and living room, but Bear adjusted right away. He even licked my face! This dog has never known a kind word or a show of affection from anyone other than me. Idon't know anyone else who would appreciate that besides you. It truly is a milestone for Bear. Again, I'm happy for you, keep up the good work. God bless you.

Donna

Hi Tammy. You probably don't remember me, but I'm the girl in Maryland who had the problem with the back yard breeder of two pits that were tied outside 24/7. Well, I'm happy to inform you that they are no longer tied. After complaining and complaining and complaining to animal control, they finally did something about it. In Maryland, dogs cannot be tied outdoors between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am. I would call every night that the dogs were outside during those hours. Animal Control would come out and issue a $500 citation per dog each time they came out. Finally, one day I called when the dogs were tied during the day with no food or water and they seized the dogs. The guy got one dog back, but the dog is no longer kept outside or tied. I'm not sure what happened to the other dog. I hope this continues. I will definitely be ready with phone in hand if he starts again. I also sent the guy one of your brochures. Thanks for your input and keep up the great work.

This is from the man who reported a Pit being chained. I visited the chainer and measured his fence. He would like me to come back and electrify it as it's only 4' high & the dogs jumps over. He actually took the dog OFF the chain that very night (Monday) and he's been off ever since! Way cool, huh? Here is what the kind neighbor said about DDB:

"I think your 501c3 is the most outstanding charity I've ever come across. I used to be involved in non-profit "church" work and know from experience that "non-profit" treads a very fine line, and in my opinion, most of them (at the highest levels) are only in it for the money for themselves. What you guys do is outstanding...and it is plain to see that y'all do it for the love of the animals. I'd love to help your group whenever I can. I don't have money to donate, but I do have spare time and experience with animals (and fencing) to donate. Let me know if there's any way I could be of help to you or groups you are affiliated with".

Dear Tammy,

Clova gave me all the details I needed to make “Operation keep dog in” a success.  My dog has not been out since.  Thank you so much for your helping a complete stranger.  The world is a much better place with people like yourself and Clova.  I was at the end of my rope before reading your article on the internet. 

Sincerely, Charles

Since I use your handout info on a weekly basis and get ideas from you, I want to show my appreciation. I actually got some people to build an L-shaped area by their garage for their dog to live. He had been chained and was always sleeping underneath a piece of plywood propped against their fence. He always looked so pitiful. When I went passed him yesterday, he was trotting around in his enclosure and actually acted happy.

I got a couple of more people to straw their dogs (with straw I dropped off) and a couple more small steps at a couple other spots.

Hello. I recently received a letter from your group. At first I was appalled but then I realized that I actually agree with your mission.

A little known fact about this dog is that we had rescued her 2 years ago and tried to give her a new home. My son quickly outgrew the responsibility and we had tried to find her a home seveal times but to no avail. My neighbor began to complain and I was getting ready to give the dog away anyhow.

This note is to let you know that this time we got lucky and found a home for "LUCKY," our dog. She now resides with a wonderful gentleman who wants her for his soul companion. She also has a fenced-in yard and another dog to play with, as well as two girls, ages 13 and 16, whom she has grown to love dearly within the first week of her arrival.

Thank you for your concern and good luck in your mission to free other animals.

If you'd like to donate via regular USPS mail, you may print out this form in .pdf format, and send to P.O. Box 23, Tipton, PA 16684

Dogs Deserve Better is a 501c3 nonprofit education/legislation/rescue organization.

Contact Info: Dogs Deserve Better, Inc. • P.O. Box 23 • Tipton, PA 16684 • Toll Free 1.877.636.1408 • 814.941.7447
email: info@dogsdeservebetter.org • Website designed and maintained by Crescent Communications