Dear Editor,
A ruling was made last week in the VT Superior Court, WRJ, on the return of German shepherd dogs and their puppies to the owner of the puppy mill from which they were recently rescued by VT state police and local humane societies.
While the details of this horrific situation cannot yet be disclosed, there was more than sufficient evidence to rescue these dogs. This is devastating news to the families and their children that have fostered and loved them to be ordered to send back to the breeder. Thousands of dollars have been spent on needed medical attention, food and supplies which will not be reimbursed to the families or the rescue organizations under the judge’s ruling.
Before purchasing an animal be sure the breeder is legitimate. Websites are often a glorified advertisement and nothing to do with the reality of the situation in which the animals are kept. Consider from an established animal shelter. These animals long for a loving family.
Dogs represent one thing to a puppy mill: money.
These dogs may have to go back immediately. We’re pleading for your help — consider a contribution into our designated fund helping the families purchase these dogs. As frustrating as this is, it’s the only way to ensure they’ll remain in their homes where there’s mutual love. They were being sold for $1,000, cash. The families and humane organizations that took in these dogs did so out of compassion and empathy, knowing it was the right thing to do, but has cost them significantly.
Imagine if you were ordered to relinquish your own dog, not knowing its fate. The heartache is unimaginable. We can remedy this if we act immediately.
In the true spirit of the season, thank you in advance. Donations are tax deductible, and all funds will be used to help assure the dogs are not returned to a place where their keeping will likely be no better from which they were rescued. The goal is to raise $20,000, which may be conservative when costs are tallied.
VT Volunteer Services for Animals HS has a designated fund. Gifts are tax deductible. Checks can be mailed to: VVSA, PO Box 100, Bridgewater, VT 05034, please note: “German Shepherd” Rescue.
Know that it will be one of the most appreciated gifts one can receive for both two-legged and four-legged family members.
With sincerity,
Sue Skaskiw, VVSA Humane Society
