It seems like a no-brainer.
Rescues and shelters are filled with people who are devoting themselves to one goal: Saving animals.
So we all work together, hoping to accomplish our common mission.
Right? Umm … not exactly.
You don’t need to be personally involved in the world of animal rescue to know it’s a pretty competitive — if not downright adversarial — culture. Individuals in different organizations often won’t talk to each other, much less work together.
And who are the big losers in all of this? The animals, of course.
Just take a look at what we accomplished this past weekend, partnering with Pet Rescue Squad, Inc.
Within 24 hours of hearing that a magnificent Presa Canario (mastiff) named Azlan needed to be re-homed ASAP, he not only had a Forever Home, but all the transport for his 7-hour journey had been arranged.
We couldn’t have done it alone. Or maybe we could — but it sure as hell would’ve taken a lot longer than 24 hours. And Azlan didn’t have that kind of time.
Between DogsHome and Pet Rescue Squad, this gorgeous boy is now safe, sound and happy.
So why don’t rescues and shelters team up more often?
It’s not unheard of. Just look at what’s been happening in Oregon.
Eight years ago, several of the Portland metro area’s larger shelters joined together to tackle pet overpopulation, reduce shelter intake, and end unnecessary euthanasia.
The results?
Here it is, straight from the Animal Shelter Alliance of Portland (ASAP) website: “In the past 8 years, ASAP has reduced euthanasia in Portland’s shelters by 87% and now saves 93% of cats and dogs – making our community one of the safest for pets in the nation!”
They’re moving mountains for thousands of animals every year. This past weekend, we moved mountains for one deserving and very lucky dog.
No one can do it alone. The problems of animal homelessness are too widespread; the numbers are too great.
It takes partnering, it takes teamwork, and most importantly, it takes a willingness to put any and all differences aside and come together for the sake of the animals.
Clearly, it can be done.
So the only question is: Do we want to move mountains — or pebbles?
Tell us what you think in the comments section below.
DogsHome: Providing shelter, training and love.