Everything is bigger in Texas

Submitted by Janell Matthies, UAN Emergency Services Manager

We have been here for over a week and working long, hot and sweaty days to give these animals the exceptional care they deserve. Our hard work is paying off; many of the dogs who arrived in critical condition are improving dramatically. The UAN volunteers are doing the norm – showing what amazing, overwhelmingly awe-inspiring and incredible people they are. The dogs are now receiving way beyond basic care. We have moved on to baths, cool towels, toys, and constant fresh water and clean cages. I have started threatening to use catch poles to get the volunteers to take breaks.

The generosity and support of the community has been wonderful. We were well on our way to what the long-timers refer to as our “secondary disaster” — figuring out what to do with the tons and tons of donations coming in. We got the word out that we had all of the volunteers and supplies we could ever use, and now it is under control. How great is that? We have to worry about getting too much help. They say everything is bigger in Texas and once again it’s proven to be true. The compassion this community has shown for these animals is a perfect example. Texans definitely have big hearts.

We’ve had the Commissioners’ Office, Sheriff’s Department, local rescue groups and anyone else you can think of helping out at the shelter, supplying donations and taking care of the volunteers. When folks ask, “What do you need?” I have a hard time coming up with anything.

We are all waiting on pins and needles to see how the hearing for the owner of the puppy mill goes today. The dogs have settled in nicely and are very comfortable, but we can’t wait to get them started on the road to their new lives. They may finally learn what it means to be a dog, not just a commodity.

Please keep your fingers crossed and send good thoughts our way. We’ll let you know as soon as we hear anything!