Week of 1/27/13 Humane Happenings

Glass garden at Desert Haven Animal Refuge

by Eliana Aubin

When the property that is now Desert Haven Animal Refuge today was purchased thirteen years ago, it was to build a small no-kill sanctuary for Sierra County companion animals down-on-their luck. Once re-adjusted and happy again, they would be given a new forever home or live the rest of their natural life in the safe and loving environment they all deserved. We are now 13 years later and the objective has been achieved. The five acre property is a comfortable home for all its residents. It’s also a pleasant environment for those who care for the little rescues and an inviting destination for visitors and potential adopters. Built as an Old West little town overlooking the Caballo Mountains and the Rio Grande Corridor below, the sanctuary has a unique charm that enhances the atmosphere of peace and serenity that many visitors appreciate.

Several years ago, the DHAR team decided to create inside the sanctuary grounds a peaceful and relaxing outdoor area, to be enjoyed by those who came to visit or help care for the furry and feather residents. The area was cleared and slowly developed as the beautiful glass garden that it is now becoming.

A brightly decorated bottle tree stands tall in the center of the garden. Comfortable benches allow visitors to watch the New Mexico sun shine through the myriads of colored glass structures and colorful bottles as the day goes by. Laura is currently transforming the glass garden into a true work-of-art.

Mike & Laura with Elaina at our Christmas party

 Laura and her husband Mike recently relocated to the sanctuary from Michigan. Both are hard workers with talents and skills and also the energy and personality to match. Each glass sculpture that Laura creates is unique and adds to the soothing atmosphere of serenity at Desert Haven. We are collecting glass bottles and items of all sizes and colors. With plenty of material to choose from, Laura is creating a beautiful environment that can only add to the sanctuary’s spiritual atmosphere. You can help by bringing colorful glass bottles and other glass items to Paws & Claws Thrift Shoppe from Wed through Saturday, 11 AM to 4 PM. You can also drop them off at Desert Haven on Tuesdays, when the no-kill sanctuary is open to the public.

Contact us at 894-1694 or weR4pets@gmail.com . Visit our web site at http://www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com and www.Facebook.com/deserthaven.