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| Issue 6 - November/December 2009 |
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Greetings!
(Please click above where TO VIEW THIS ENTIRE ENEWSLETTER PLEASE click here is indicated. Since different email programs may display information differently than intended, this will make sure you are able to enjoy the entire enewsletter.)
Welcome to Issue 6 of the Humane Society of Skagit Valley's enewsletter!
It will be Thanksgiving in a few weeks (or a few minutes as time seems to fly so quickly). When we think of giving thanks, the board members, staff, and volunteers at the Humane Society are at the top of the list. Imagine, if you would, this community without a humane society. Can you picture what that would be like? There would be no safe, loving, and protected haven for formerly abandoned and abused pets; there would be no one to call to get help with pet related issues; there would be no place to call to see if lost pets were located; and the list goes on and on.
Here's to everyone who is associated with the Humane Society of Skagit Valley for making such an enormous difference to all the animals on a daily basis. Our deepest gratitude and thanks go to all who give so unselfishly of themselves for the animals.
We are so thankful and extremely fortunate to have a beautiful Shelter and wonderful people who work day and night to make sure the animals are cared for and safe.
As always, we would love to hear your feedback and suggestions. You can reach us at:
editorHSSVenewsletter@yahoo.com
For all the animals,
Volunteers Karen and Bruce Roberts |
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Donate to the Humane Society of Skagit Valley
If you wish to donate to the animals online, below is a link to PayPal.
Please click the link and follow the instructions.
or
If you wish to donate and write a check, please make it payable to the Humane Society of Skagit Valley and mail to:
Humane Society of Skagit Valley
18841 Kelleher Road
Burlington, WA 98233 |
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Honoring a Great Hero,
Anne Jackson Memorial Walk/Run 2009 Event
This may have been the best event we have ever hosted! This is how I would describe the Anne Jackson Memorial Walk/Run held on Saturday, August 22, 2009. For those who may be new to the Skagit Valley, Anne Jackson was a Skagit County Sherriff's Deputy who was killed, along with five others, in a tragic event occurring on September 2, 2008. Anne was previously the Skagit County Animal Control Officer and she worked closely with the Humane Society of Skagit Valley. Her love for animals was obvious and it seemed fitting to Herb Oberg, a Snohomish County Sherriff's Deputy, that a memorial event in her honor be held to benefit the HSSV. The Skagit Runners Association took on the project.
Approximately 400 people joined in the 10K or 5K runs headed south from the HSSV or walked with or without dogs in the two mile Doggone Walk-a-Thon headed north. Food and beverages were served in perfect weather and the support from the community was absolutely awesome!
Over $22,000 was raised. With some of that funding, the HSSV constructed a 7,700 square foot fenced grassy dog exercise pen where the people in the community can come to meet and greet their new best friends.
When Jen Holloman, a good friend of Anne Jackson, cut the green ribbon, opened the gate, and led her dog (Abby) into the new exercise area, I know I wasn't the only person crying. Abby ran and jumped through the pen with pure joy! Others followed and soon the pen had about ten happy dogs delighting in the new space.
A huge thank you to the volunteers, walk/run attendees, and our sponsors Berentson Plumbing, Judy's Bookkeeping, North Cascade Veterinary Hospital, and Skagit State Bank for their generous support. Also thank you to Cost Cutter Foods, Haggen Food and Pharmacy, Safeway, Signmart, Skagit Speedway, Skagit Farmer's Supply, and the Skagit Valley Herald for their contributions.
The "Top Dog" honor was awarded to John Tesarik and his dog Tru. They raised $2,200 in donations for homeless pets.
A big thank you also goes to Herb Oberg, the race director, and Terry Sentinella, President of Skagit Runners Association.
I was honored to be part of this fantastic walk/run and I'm thrilled we are planning to make it an annual event.
Written by Megan Strong, Humane Society Thrift Shop Manager
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La Vida Loca
Since most of you don't know me, let me take a moment to introduce myself. My name is Vida. I am an exceptional, three year old, black and silver dappled Chihuahua. The reason I mention my looks is not to brag, but only because it helps to explain the difficulties I experienced in my early years. You see, because of my looks, I was selected to become breeding stock by the owners of a "puppy mill." When I came of age, I was bred repeatedly. During that time, I was kept in a cage, and lacked for exercise, meaningful human interaction and most importantly, affection. During my last pregnancy, I was mercifully rescued. In the care of the Humane Society of Skagit Valley, I delivered my pups but I was too weak to care for them. As fate would have it, in the Humane Society's care there was a Terrier whose puppies had died. The Terrier became my offspring's surrogate mother and the puppies did fine. Had I been unable to care for my litter while I was at the puppy mill, I undoubtedly would have been killed. Thus, without any doubt, the HSSV saved my life and my sanity. I needed and received some necessary veterinary care, after which, one of the HSSV workers took me home...into foster care. This was an awesome step up. I was fed well and taken out for exercise. I also received some wonderful attention. However I was continually uneasy in that I knew that my stay was only temporary and I was unsure what my ultimate fate would be.
Last May, a woman by the name of Susie adopted me. She has proven to be a wonderful and loving Mom. It was she who gave me the name "Vida." The name turns out to be prophetically appropriate; in Spanish, vida is the word for life. Susie instinctually knew that both of us would have better lives if we were together. She brought me home and introduced me to my new surroundings. In her home there were already two other rescue dogs. Both, I think, have a bit of Chihuahua in them. We now eat and play together and the oldest has even become my "protector." Every day, I run around my garden...something that was obviously impossible to do in a cage. From that very first night, I have slept on Mom's bed, engulfed in her love, commitment, companionship, and warmth. I am even finding my bark. In a short time, my sisters and I will be accompanying Mom on a lengthy trip to Mexico. I look forward to discovering my heritage.
I would be less than honest if I left you with the impression that my problems are entirely over. I am still wary of the unknown and I continue to harbor considerable suspicion toward strangers. However, I am making progress in becoming more trustful in all my encounters.
Let me close with a quotation from Jose Joaquin Olmeda; "When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on." I am lucky to have been able to tie that knot and hang on. Some of my kennel mates were not so lucky. Although I grieve for them, I exalt in knowing that my future is both assured and bright.
Written by: Vida Marglin (with assistance from my Mom, Susie Marglin) |
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From now through December 20, 2009, your daily vote can get us cash grants from the Shelter Challenge through the Animal Rescue Site.
This is super easy. It just takes a few seconds...really...just a few seconds each day and you will be helping the animals and your community.
and you will see the above link.
 Vote for the Humane Society of Skagit Valley once per day.
Have more than one computer at home? Vote from
each every day.
Work in an office with computers? Vote from each every day. Spread the word among your coworkers.
A wonderful idea is to place the link from the
Humane Society website in your signature on outgoing
emails so everyone you email will know to
vote each day.
Stop by the Humane Society and pick up handouts to
give to your family and friends.
We can do this together. The animals are depending on us.
Nothing can be simpler!
P.S. We have the HSSV website as a favorite on our computer so it is extra easy to access this link on a daily basis. |
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Meet Sara Jane Strong,
the Thrift Shop's Most Valuable Volunteer
Written by: Megan Strong, Humane Society Thrift Shop Manager
Anyone who has frequented the Humane Society Thrift Shop has seen Sara Jane Strong, also known as the Energizer Bunny and my Mom. Sara Jane is a "can do" kind of gal. She does everything from polish silver to package odds and ends. She sorts incoming donations, measures fabric, bags toys, tests things needing batteries, matches greeting cards to envelopes, packages Christmas ornaments, tests holiday lights (a tedious task), washes stuffed animals and dresses them with fresh bows, sorts and tags jewelry, dresses Barbie dolls, and the list just goes on and on! She has even assumed some duties performed by her husband who passed away in 2004, including cutting glass for framing pictures and repairing some damaged items that are donated. Her garage is a thrift shop workshop! In 2008 Sara Jane logged in more than 2,000 hours of volunteer time for the thrift shop!
In her spare time (what spare time?) Sara Jane is a member of the Red Hat Society, loves to play card games, and with utmost compassion and kindness, visits people who are ill or in need of attention. She is the most giving person I know, and I'm so extremely proud to call her my Mom, also known as the Energizer Bunny.
Pictured Above: Megan and Sara Jane Strong |
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A Huge Thank You to the Skagit Valley Pony Club
Skagit Valley Pony Club members recently donated $500 to the Humane Society of Skagit Valley from a silent auction held this summer. The auction was held to honor the memory of Skagit County Sherriff's Deputy and equestrian Anne Jackson. The funds were used to complete the new dog exercise area at the Shelter. |
The Humane Society Thrift Shop's
Christmas Collection
Opens 9:30 am
Monday, November 16, 2009
This year we have our biggest selection ever! Shop early and often for great deals on Christmas trees, decorations, lights, home and yard decor, crafts, beautiful jewelry and clothing, as well as many new items suitable for gifts.
We will be closed Sunday, November 15, in order to prepare the store for this exciting event!
We hope to see you on Monday, November 16!
The Humane Society Thrift Shop is located at 525-D East College Way, Mount Vernon, just four doors north of Value Village.
Phone:
360-424-5991
Hours:
Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Click Below For More Info:
All proceeds benefit the formerly homeless, abandoned, and abused animals served by the Humane Society of Skagit Valley.
Thank you for your support!
Written by: Kathy Moore, Humane Society Thrift Shop |
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Our Best Buddy
We adopted Buddy last June and want you to know how happy we all are. He's the most delightful dog and he adjusted to our family easily.
We thought we wanted to give Buddy a new name, but decided to keep his shelter name because it fits him so well. Buddy is truly a companion and friend. He loves being with us inside or outside, playing, working, or resting. When he wants to play, he butts gently with his head, or drops his toy at our feet, or puts one paw up.
He's a fantastic fetcher! Our arms were wearing out from throwing balls, so we got him his own Kong Frisbee.
Buddy fits in so well. He ignores our four cats and plays with our old dog, Mandy, even though she tries to steal his bones. Everyone who visits falls in love with Buddy, especially kids.
Thanks so much for Buddy! We love him.
Pictured Above:
Buddy Carrying His Frisbee Mandy and Buddy
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Featured Pets, in Their Own Words
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I Did Not Do It! That Is My Story and I Am Sticking To It!
Hi, I'm Spencer. I may look like that other cat in this picture, but you really have to see me in person to appreciate my unique looks. I am eight years old and looking for a loving, warm, safe, and secure forever home I can call my own. I will love you like no other cat has ever loved you.
Sweet Sable
Hello, my name is Sable and I am five years old. I was brought here by my family because they had to deal with difficult financial times and could not care for me any longer. They said I am a really good girl and they want the best for me. While I wait for my second chance, I make the most out of every day here. I am very easy going and I do everything within my power to always please adults, kids, other dogs, and cats. Won't you consider giving me my second chance?
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You Talking To Me?
Hi, I'm Gavin. I am about two years old in human terms. I am a great looking cat, if I do say so myself. I am very easy to care for with my short hair. I was wandering the streets before a very nice person brought me here. I will give you years of love and affection so we can live happily ever after.
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I Am Not A Baby Boomer; I Am A Four Year Old Male Dog
Hi, they call me Boomer and I am about four years old. All of a sudden my family was gone and I was all by myself in a big house. I must admit it was scary. I would love to meet you and maybe even go home with you to be your forever companion. I can't wait to show you how loyal, intelligent, and loving I am.
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You May Approach the Bench
Hi, I'm Pete. Pardon me if I don't get up. I'm a little on the lazy side. You look like the friendly sort so maybe you can brush me. We may just end up being best friends side by side forever. I am about eight years old and would love to be in your heart and your home.
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Roland, the Former Roamer
Hi, I'm Roland and I am a bit over two years old now. I was searching for my family for over six months. The person who first saw me tried to catch me but I resisted. I was so determined to find my people in spite of the cold, loneliness, and hunger. I didn't want to give up. I was heartbroken. But then I realized, painful though it was, that my people were gone. I am so happy the same person who I resisted months earlier brought me to the Shelter. I am safe, warm, loved, and fed by the incredible staff and volunteers here while I wait for my new home. I have an endless supply of love to give.
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P.S. When you come to the Shelter to see us, if we are not here, it means we have found our loving and forever families. There are many more pets waiting to meet you who would love to be by your side. |
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Banfield Pet Hospital Helps the HSSV with Pet Supply Drive
Now this is holiday spirit!
The folks at Banfield Pet Hospital in Burlington are accepting donations of pet food, pet toys, and cat litter. Donations are accepted now through the end of 2009. Everything collected will be donated to the Humane Society of Skagit Valley.
Every year, Banfield Pet Hospital picks a worthy cause. Last year, they chose to donate pet food to people who use the Meals on Wheels program. In fact, the people at Banfield stopped counting how much food was donated after 2,500 pounds.
As an added bonus, with each six pound bagged food donation you can have your pet's nails trimmed "on the house" (or "on the hospital" as the case may be).
Banfield Pet Hospital is located at: 1969 Marketplace Dr., Burlington (inside the Burlington PetSmart) Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Phone Number: 360-755-1218 Website: www.banfield.net |
Oh...So That Was What Colette Was Thinking
In Issue 5, we asked you what Colette was thinking during her visit to see Wendy and Ashley Richeson at Pampered Pets & Grooming in Burlington. Thank you to all our readers who responded.
"Not a word!"
"You humans do this every day?"
"I thought they said I am as delicate as a flower; not you are going to get a shower."
"Here I thought I was getting a manicure."
"What happened? One minute I was being petted...the next minute I was all wet."
"I can sure use a hug."
"They better be preparing a very special dinner for me." | |
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We hope you enjoyed the sixth issue of the
Humane Society of Skagit Valley's enewsletter.
Again, we would love to hear from you!
Please email us at:
For all the animals,
Volunteers Karen and Bruce Roberts | |
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