I've had a busy couple of weeks, and I finally took some time to read thru a good portion of the messages about Cody. Although the monster who had him was rewarded $1000.00 for abusing him ( something that everyone seems to agree on ) I think the money was well spent for a couple of reasons, but you have to be a little open-minded to understand the point I hope to make. # 1 Cody has been removed from his old "life". # 2 This was an invaluable learning experience already for everyone who has witnessed it. I'd really like to add to that experience with just a little information.
The reference "professional rescue people" cannot be applied to people like Jane, and myself and others on here who volunteer. We are pet owners who have become involved with rescue. The people on shows like Animal Cops and Animal Precinct are a better example of "professional rescue people". It is only by taking on something we never thought we could handle, that rescue volunteers become experienced. And please believe me when I say that every single experience brings something new. I worked in Golden Resscue for 6 years before I became involved in bully rescue, and its a different world. BCA has a recommended amount for an adoption "donation" , of $300. This is not a price tag, and it is not written in stone. When someone adopts a dog thru BCA or some less known rescue groups, that person is adopting the dog, not "rescuing" it. It has already been rescued. The donation supports the rescuer or group for either the care that has been necessary for the dog that has been adopted, or for another rescued dog in their care. "Rescue" doesn't have vets that works for free, and doesn't have deals with any manufacturers to provide food, or drugs or ointments or toys for free. Sometimes spay /neuter groups can afford to provide "certificates" because of specific arrangements they have with certain vets who will work with them . It's still not done for free, and those groups have had to raise money to pay those vets also.
In general, a dog who is adopted-out with a $300 donation is a dog who is up to date, spayed or neutered, and in need of basic care and nurturing during an adjustment. Most of the time, obedience training is recommended, at the new owner's
expense. But this new owner would now have "adopted" this dog, not rescued it. When I place a dog who has special needs and will require continuing vet care for those needs, I consider the expense the new family is taking on, and I use my discretion regarding the adoption donation. As far as my own out of pocket expenses on dogs I have rescued, I don't think I've been out of the red since I first volunteered. If I consider time spent in care, transportation and communication ... I'm bankrupt. Rescue is emotionally, physically and financially draining. The learning I hope "The Cody Experience" will have provided, is that to make any progress in rescuing from an abuser, you can't pay the abuser for his crimes.I hope this criminal doesn't conatact someone to say he has a dog in worse shape, for just a little more. What CAN you do ? It depends on the state you live in and it means contacting the right people and making enough noise to be heard. THAT is the other end of rescue, a worthy consideration for those who cannot be a "hands on" rescuer. I understand the good intentions of everyone who donated to Cody's cause. He is certainly worthy of the efforts, and I think that although he IS in terrible condition, there will be a happy outcome for him. I have seen worse. I admire you all for caring so much. I also admire the many here who have taken on the care of sick dogs, made them your pets and devoted yourselves to them, with only the support and understanding of the people who love you. I wish there was a financially fluent organization that would offer support to people like you. Thanks everyone, for caring so much.
~Pam