something to say!!

Some time ago now - before winter crept over the hills- seven new residents made a long trek here from Illinois. The journey was the result of the kindness, compassion and determination of a group of people who had been instrumental in rescuing over 200 animals from a hoarding situation. These seven - large and small - were deemed not adoptable, through lack of socialisation, and fear of people.

It began with Iceman, a gorgeous Husky who had escaped his run at the hoarding location, but stayed close by, as if to guard the other animals. Gradually everyone was taken away, but Iceman remained vigilant. It took some weeks to trap him. But where was he to go. Euthanization loomed. These women would not give up on him.

Much to everyone's delight, a web search led to us, and so began a conversation about saving Iceman's life. It did not matter to us that he did not interact with people, our mission is to save lives, including the lives of dogs who are not easily adopted, or who may need a safe haven for life. Dealing with unsocialised, fearful or "feral" dogs seems to have become a focus for us, because these dogs often have no other option.

So Iceman's future was secure with us. But then they worried about his offspring - with a bloodhound! - most magnificent gentle giants, too fearful to interact with people. And his sister, Frosty - with whom he is bonded.

And Liza and Zara, two frightened beagles who shunned all contact, barking and backing away into their houses? of course, we said: we will take them all!

So three intrepid women piled themselves, a mountain of dog food and these dogs large and small into a rental van and drove across the country to our Sanctuary. The vehicle would not make it in the last 5 rugged miles, so a shuttle service was set up.

Knowing that Iceman was an escaper, we put the 5 larger dogs in our one huge run with a 45degree angle wire at the top, which is set slightly away from the main dog area.

The beagles went on "the field", in a run amidst everyone else. Did they have something to say!

It was wonderful to meet Kathy, Jenny and Regina. Although weary, they were joyful at having reached the life-saving destination; the weather was glorious, so the Valley shone . We felt connected as kindred spirits wanting to make a difference in the world. Everyone watched anxiously to see if Iceman would try to escape!! Actually, he was pretty shy and stayed in his new igloo. The others roamed around, wary but interested in the new sounds and smells. Food, of course, was a hit!

We also had lunch together in the bunkhouse, sharing stories and laughs. They also made a very generous donation to Tara's Babies, as did some of their supporters, which was gratefully received. But overnight they could not, so with a final farewell, the headed off to begin the journey north.





Now. some months later, settled with the routine, responding to pur patience, the dogs tell a different story! Liza and Zara are both walking on leash, Liza particularly LOVES her walks.


Zara is still more reluctant, but no longer plays dead after every step, as she did the first few times!!


And the giants? All are hand feeding, including Iceman and Frosty. Still learning socialisation skills, they are definitely more trusting of people, and are delighted when people come to visit.


Rayden may soon begin walking on leash. But they are a very contented pack of dogs, happy, settled. And ALIVE!! We are so grateful to their rescuers and supporters for not giving up hope, and allowing us to be part of this wonderful story.