DAWG saves adoptable animals at Douglas County shelter
By Linda EissmannThe Douglas Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) proves that one person really can make a difference. And a big difference, at that!
Formed in 2000 by Cherie Owen, DAWG is devoted to bettering the lives of animals in Douglas County by improving the adoptability of the animals at the Douglas County Animal Shelter. Cherie knew that killing shelter animals for lack of space, money, and effort simply had to change. She decided to do something about it.
Today, DAWG has about 100 all-volunteer members who rely solely on donations to support their work. They work with the animals to ensure they are socialized and ready for their adoptive families.
Volunteers also support spaying and neutering programs, provide medical treatment, offer foster homes to those needing individualized care, assist in adoptions, sponsor various adoption events, and educate the public about the joys of shelter adoptions and the proper care of animals. When needed, DAWG members even help out during shelter staff shortages.
Saving LivesSo what has all of this meant to Douglas County? The difference has been nothing short of amazing! Thanks to DAWG's efforts, Douglas County has not put down any adoptable animals since 2000.
“It might be training, or medical attention, or socializing… whatever the need is, we try to meet that need,” Cherie explains.
Dogs once abused, neglected, or abandoned come into the shelter with all sorts of challenges. However, DAWG knows that once those animals find their adoptive homes and have the love, care, and security they need, they will blossom and become beloved family members. DAWG volunteers make every effort to make sure each dog at the shelter has that chance.
Awards and ApplauseAmong its many awards, DAWG was recognized as “Organization of the Year” by the Nevada Appeal in 2005 and “Service Organization of the Year” by the Douglas County Chamber of Commerce in 2006.
In recognition for her individual efforts, Cherie has received numerous awards including recognitions from Congressman Dean Heller, Governor Jim Gibbons, the Red Cross, and the Points of Light Foundation.
DAWG is one of many rescue organizations that will offer pets for adoption at the Super Adoption, Saturday, April 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center Exhibit Hall. The event is a highlight of the 1st Annual Nevada Week for Animals, April 5-13, 2008, a statewide celebration to build awareness and mobilize action on behalf of all animals in the Silver State and Lake Tahoe area.
What You Can DoCome to the Super Adoption and meet the Douglas dogs and volunteers. Find out more about DAWG on the organization's
website.Posted by Julie Snyder, Best Friends NetworkPhoto of Captain Jack, who's seeking a forever home, courtesy of DAWG