Week of 5/2/10 Humane Happenings

Old Sophie with her pet parent, Danny

By Eliana Aubin

Sophie came to visit Desert Haven Animal Refuge last week. She was accompanied by her human friend and caregiver, Danny Springer. Danny is a local artist who owns and operates “Floor Covering” in T or C. Sophie is an older dog who has lived most of her life outside and at the end of a chain on someone’s property in Hillsboro. Sophie’s lonely life was doomed to end at the end of that chain, but she had a guardian angel - Jan Haley - also of Hillsboro. Jan rescued Sophie and convinced DHAR, full at the time, to take the older dog in. She promised to contribute to her care, both financially and in person. Jan stayed true to her word and became Sophie’s sponsor and official protector. At the sanctuary, Sophie started a brand new life, never again to be lonely, hungry or lacking loving human attention.

Everyone assumed that Desert Haven would be Sophie’s home until the end of her natural life. Exposed to many cold Hillsboro winters without adequate shelter, Sophie was suffering from arthritis, among other ailments. At DHAR, she now resided in the VIP play yard, connected by a doggie door to Gene’s Dog House, a fully enclosed porch that was reserved for Desert Haven’s special needs dogs. Aside from the sanctuary volunteers’ loving care, Sophie also enjoyed the company of a roommate, another gentle older canine resident. Sophie’s life had finally turned around and good things were happening to her now.

Several weeks ago, Sophie was adopted locally. As she quietly walked from one Desert Haven volunteer to another during her visit that Tuesday afternoon, she was wagging her tail, obviously remembering each and every one of them with fondness. During that time, Danny shared with the group some details of her new life. Aside from fish and rice seasoned with fish oil, one of her favorite meals, old Sophie also appreciates a piece or two of banana bread, to satisfy her sweet tooth. The old girl is indeed living the good life these days and her entire composure shows it. Sophie is now a happy dog.

Sophie and Danny are planning an Art Auction to be held at Ralph Edward Park. The auction is to raise funds for Desert Haven Animal Refuge, to help rescue and provide care for other dogs like Sophie. For more information, contact Danny at 505-203-1241.

Please consider helping us feed and care for the seven very young pups very recently abandoned at the entrance of Desert Haven. They and the other residents at the sanctuary need the on-going support of our animal loving friends. Write us at POB 638, Williamsburg NM, 87942. Call us 575-894-2778, 575-740-4100. Check us out at www.DeserthavenanimalRefuge.com, www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.blogspot.com,and www.facebook.com/deserthaven.