SGH closing its doors…

Many of you know that I began volunteering at a local dog rescue this summer to get my dog fix and to help try to begin the process of healing my broken heart after I lost Lupe.  After researching local rescues I decided to devote my time and energy (and my firm’s matching contribution for my time) to Shultz’s Guest House.  It was a magical place, convert horse farm with 200 acres of land where dogs can go hiking, swimming and get out of chaotic and overcrowded shelters (they even had a tripawd that was adopted before I could meet her).  I also knew that when I was ready, SGH would help me find my next dog (whose name will be Vivie).

This week I got an email from the rescue manager that SGH is closing its doors due to changes in tax guidelines.  It was a shock to me and most volunteers and I’m not sure of the whole story.  All I know is that a group of people who only wanted the best for dogs have put their mission and passion on hold to figure out how they continue.  All dogs (they only could take up to 10) have been adopted or put into foster, except 1 but fingers crossed as there is a potential adopter looking at him.  I thought about going down to the farm for one last day but I just don’t know if I can handle having to drive away from a place that helped me so much.

SGH reminded me that while we humans say that we rescue a dog, it is truly the dog that rescues us.  I can only hope that in the near future SGH can find a way to continue all the good they have done over the years.  Until then, I look for another rescue to help get me my dog fix and to continue filling the hole in my heart left by my sweet Lupe.

Became a volunteer today

After researching a bunch of rescue groups in the greater Boston area, today I did my volunteer orientation at a small rescue group in Dedham (http://shultzsguesthouse.org/).  They currently have 7 dogs, which will soon be 6 as one is being adopted out this weekend, on this amazing farm in the suburbs.  I got to go on 2 hikes through the woods with the dogs, the first was in a group of 7 dogs and the second was 4 dogs.  The second walk was pretty amazing as it was just me, the dog I was walking, the rescue manager, the dog she was walking and her 2 dogs (off leash).  I got to tell them a little about Lupe and there were no tears, just smiles.

I have another orientation on Saturday for another group, a little larger, so it will be interesting to see how different the 2 are.  I’m glad that I am able to give back to other dogs for all that Lupe gave me.  I’m exhausted but so happy.  I know my girl is looking down at me, proud that I have found an avenue to get rid of some of the anxiety and stress that have come into my life since Lupe got sick and earned her wings.

And no, I did not come home with a dog! 🙂