Desert Haven Animal Refuge; Williamsburg, New Mexico

Week of 7/1/308 Humane Happenings

2008-07-18T09:54:00.003-06:00

Deb & Judy share kitchen duties

Bullocks receipts continue to be collected for the Sierra County Humane Society and Desert Haven Animal Refuge. They can be dropped-off at Paws & Claws thrift shop across the alley from Family Dollar in T or C, at the Williamsburg Post Office and at the T or C Public Library.

Our 501-C-3 organization receives $ 1 for every thousand dollars of the total amount of receipts collected by folks who spend their grocery dollars at Bullocks, and each and every year, the money that is redeemed is used to cover some of the costs of both the SCHS Spay-Neuter and the Spay-a-Stray program. We are very proud of these two programs, as they help curb the domestic animal overpopulation in Sierra County, as each sterilized companion animal no longer adds to this real tragedy.

Special thanks are due to Josephine Varnum for handling the Cash-for-Clubs program since it started a number of years ago, also to all the folks who collect Bullocks receipts for us, especially those who make it a point to collect them for us by the bag full, from neighbors, friends and relatives. For more information on the program, contact us at 575-894-2778.

The Cash for Clubs program will end, as it does every year, at the end of July, consequently, we urge anyone who has been saving their Bullocks receipts for us to bring them as soon as possible to Paws & Claws, so we can tally them and redeem them before the deadline. Bullocks receipts received by us after the deadline can no loner be redeemed and consequently will have to be discarded.

Our organization also collects aluminum cans, and the bags of empty cans can be dropped off in our Can Corral at the corner of the old Paws & Claws location on First Street. They can also be brought in person to our new store location. The Cans for Critters program also helps cover some of the costs of the Humane Society Spay-Neuter program. Our sincere thank-you goes to Deb Peters, for loading and transporting the empty aluminum cans in her truck to the recycling drop-off point on Third Street in T or C. Deb came to us many months ago from New Hampshire, and she settled as a work camper at Desert Haven Animal Refuge. Through the many, many months that we have known Deb, her love for all animals continues to be evident, as is her willingness to make a difference in our little corner of the world, while she helps care for the unwanted domestic animals who live at the no-kill sanctuary. Over time, Deb became the Supply Manager at DHAR, in charge of sorting and keeping track of all the tools stored at the facility. When we moved to the current Paws & Claws location, Deb took on the new responsibility, together with Ron Djurovich, of checking and pricing all incoming electronics and electrical appliances before displaying them on the shelves at the new store. Several months ago, Deb relocated from DHAR into her new home only a mile away. Still, she continues to stay very active at the sanctuary and in our animal welfare organization. We know that we are very fortunate to count Deb Peters as an integral part of our long-term volunteer crew.

This week’s wish list: volunteers to help a few hours a week at Paws & Claws thrift shop, Dog Walkers and Kitty Cuddlers at Desert Haven. Pet food and treats. To contact us, please call 575-894-2778, 575-894-1694 or visit us at www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com

Week of 7/6/08 Humane Happenings

2008-07-09T16:14:00.004-06:00

Central Bark in bloom

The summer rains have arrived in Sierra County as the folks who had to cross Ash Canyon last Tuesday after work were clearly made aware of. For over 3 hours that evening, they had to wait on one side of the wall of water rushing across HWY 51 and towards the lake further below, before they could even get to the other side and to their respective homes. Some miles away at Desert Haven Animal Refuge, Sierra County’s no-kill domestic animal sanctuary, the human residents who are carefully keeping the new plantings watered could expect Mother Nature to finally do her part and share in the process.

Desert Haven is starting to actually look like the Oasis in the middle of the Desert Southwest that its founders envisaged some years ago. On May 14 1999, the papers were signed and the property was purchased by the Sierra County Humane Society, Inc. For those local folks who seem to continue to be confused about this, Desert Haven does not belong to any individual in particular. It belongs entirely to the Sierra County Humane Society. The volunteers who work very hard there year after year are not doing so for personal gain but, rather, because they believe in a cause they have embraced. Their only reward is the knowledge that they are doing their part to help make their corner of the world a better place to live for all creatures.

This week, “hats off” are in order to Erin, Deb, Linda, Freddie, Dolly, Jerry, Ron, Terry & his wife Sharon, John and his wife Kathryn, Jeanette and also Eliana. Everyone was involved in the huge job this past Tuesday as the small building where the thrift shop used to be located was in the process of being emptied.

Crew at Paws & Claws Thrift Shoppe

It’s been time-consuming and very tiring, but over the last few weeks, the crew has done wonders to insure that the job stays on track. At the same time, they also focus on getting new items displayed from Wednesday through Saturday, when Paws & Claws is open for business at its new location across the alley from Family Dollar.

Rufus, a very gentle one-year old black lab mix who also loves children, is the newest resident of Dog Town at DHAR. His military family moved away but could not take him along. If interested in a great companion animal, contact us at 575-894-2778.

Five terrier-mix puppies are also in need of a new home. While they could not be taken in at the facility, they are available through the SCHS Adopt-a-Pet referral program that Stan Brodsky is handling. He can be reached at 895-5551.

Bill and Mary Jane Clellan came through again this time, with their monetary donation to purchase much needed cat food. Pet food is always on top of the Wish List at DHAR, which this week also includes carpet remnants. If some of our readers are able to do so, consider volunteering at the new Paws & Claws thrift shop a few hours each week – We very much need your help this Summer.

For more information, please contact us at 575-894-2778 or visit us at http://www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com

Week of 6/29/08 Humane Happenings

2008-07-03T20:40:00.005-06:00

Book and antique section at Paws & Claws Thrift Shop. Jerry Andrus checks out some fine antique china from Bavaria while Sharon looks on.

This week, we wish to remind the supporters of the Sierra County Humane Society that the Cash for Cubs program will be over at the end of July. Consequently, we ask our supporters to bring their Bullocks receipts to Paws & Claws thrift shop, to the SCHS Cash-for-Clubs container in the T or C library or the Williamsburg Post Office before July 30, to allow Josephine Varnum to tally them in time. Bullocks receipts help cover some of the costs involved with our organization’s comprehensive Spay-Neuter program. Last year, we received over $3,250 from the Bullocks receipt - over 1/3 more than the largest other non-profit recipient. Our spay-neuter expenses are growing every year, and amount on an average over $8,000 each year – a huge amount for a small organization like ours, to handle year after year.

Now that the relocation of Paws & Claws thrift shop is almost completed, the new shop is now open for customers and we have received many compliments already over the way the new space is being utilized. On Tuesday afternoon, the Desert Haven Animal Refuge crew gathers at the new location to handle the finishing touches of a move that was started several weeks ago. Rick and Terry have already hung the large sign to the side of the new building. Erin, a painter by trade, and Sharon, her dedicated helper, will soon be completed with the painting of the inside walls. The bright and cheery color is very attractive.

This week, we wish to thank DiAnna Schnetzer who, with her husband George, continue to be some of Desert Haven’s most dedicated supporters. They moved out of Sierra County several years ago, but they remain strongly associated with our organization in any way that they can. DiAnna continues to supply us regularly with hand-made string labels that we use for the great majority of the items on display in our shop. Not only her gesture is very appreciated, but also it gives us a good feeling to know that even though this wonderful couple is no longer living in Elephant Butte, we and the animals we help out about are still very much in their thoughts.

Stan, Karmalita & Emmy

A huge pat on the back goes to Stan Brodsky of Hillsboro, for doing such a great job with the Petfinder web site that he took over only several weeks ago. Recently, several dogs were adopted in a row: Lance, Emmy, Zip, Karma, Anabel, Tinkerbel. Good work, Stan!

Dog and cat food are still by far the greatest staple items needed at DHAR. Your donated bags of pet food and treats can be dropped off at the new Paws & Claws location across the alley from Family Dollar. Other donations, especially furniture pieces, should also be dropped off during business hours at that new location. Unless some of our crew members are able to secure them soon after drop-off, unscrupulous individuals continue to help themselves to anything that is not secured, including bicycles, furniture, boxes of household items, etc. For more information on Paws & Claws thrift shop, DHAR and our organization, please contact us at 575-894-2778 or visit us at www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

Week of 6/22/08 Humane Happenings

2008-07-01T18:12:00.003-06:00

Linda Estavillo with Rocky & Tinkerbel

The “Farm Visit” made last week to Desert Haven Animal Refuge by local veterinarian Dr. Cardwell went well and the medical records of the resident dogs of the no-kill sanctuary are up-to-date once again. Kudos to Linda Estavillo and her crew for doing such a wonderful job with keeping the DHAR non-human residents so well taken care of and, as importantly, the facility so clean all the time. Linda came over two years ago from Oregon with her husband David and son James, to make DHAR her home, and she works very hard to keep all the DHAR habitats very clean and in good state of repair and everyone working well together for a common cause. Good job, Linda, and good job everyone!

If you let the world get you down occasionally in these times of uncertainty, and your Faith in Humanity becomes shaky, consider visiting DHAR on a Tuesday morning, and it will revive as you watch a group of hard working kind-hearted folks pulling together to help the cause of animals who often are betrayed by those they trust and rely on.

This week, we thank Diane Bellack and Ellen Morehead for taking charge of the craft section at Paws & Claws thrift shop. While Diane handles the pricing and presentation of craft materials and fabrics from her home in Hillsboro, doing a superb job with carding the buttons by the way, Ellen concentrates on miscellaneous pricing as well as displaying the priced items on the shelves at the shop. So nice to have you both on board, Diana and Ellen!

We thank Mike Slater of Animas Creek Nursery and CJ Ellis of Caballo Lake RV Park for donating containers for houseplants, succulents and cactus to be sold at Paws & Claws. A pat on the back to Eliana Aubin and Robbin Brodsky for supplying the shop with miscellaneous home grown plants as needed. If you have houseplants or containers you wish to donate to benefit our cause, please drop them off at the shop when it is open. We can certainly use different varieties. The shop is open from Wednesday through Saturday and the hours are posted at the window.

We always need local volunteers to help at Paws & Claws thrift shop, located across the alley form Family Dollar in T or C. Extra volunteer help is critical in Summer when some of our long-time helpers leave on vacation. Consider visiting Paws & Claws and see for yourself - surely you can find your niche in our store. The work environment is great, volunteers are very helpful and our customers are friendly.

This week’s wish list: dry dog food and treats, and especially cat food. We collect Bullocks receipts and aluminum cans. To contact us, please call 575-894-2778, 740-0643 or visit us at www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

Week of 6/15/08 Humane Happenings

2008-06-20T19:22:00.006-06:00

Kita (adopted from DHAR) with Sophia Nelson

Congratulations to Rebecka West of Albuquerque, This very young lady became this year’s Sierra County Humane Society’s first Junior member. She joins eight-year old Sophia Nelson of North Carolina, who is also a member. Sophia became a Junior member of the organization when she was 3 years old and then a Lifetime member three years ago.

Rae and her husband Richard Caron, who had committed to work camp at DHAR until Fall, had to cut short their commitment to return immediately back East, due to a tragedy in their family. This great couple will be missed. Anyone locally interested in helping with animal care a couple of hours a week at DHAR, either as dog walker or kitty cuddler? Contact us at 894-2778 for more information.

If you have not visited DHAR in a while, consider doing so now. You would be very surprised at the on-going changes that are being made by a very dedicated, hard-working animal loving crew. An RV’ing couple from Illinois, Jean and Jeany James who stayed at Desert Haven RV campground for several days, described the adjacent domestic animal sanctuary as “beautiful “. Sure is nice to hear compliments from folks who have traveled all over the US and have seen a lot of beautiful sites and places along the way.

Have you visited the new Paws & Claws thrift shop lately? Erin, a painter by trade and an animal lover by heart, is now DHAR official painter, and together with Sharon, they are transforming some white walls from drab into bright and cheery. Good work, ladies!

Erin (top), Rae (bottom left) and Judy (bottom right)

Interested in donating some of your time to help a worthy cause? Consider volunteering a few hours each week at Paws & Claws. It’s a fun place to work! By the way, we could use several medium to large pieces of used carpet for the shop's floors.

Long overdue Kudos are in order for Ron Gjurovich these days. Ron traveled from New York to DHAR last year, to settle at the small sanctuary as a work-camper. Since then, even though he no longer resides there, he continues to be a extremely valuable asset to the no-kill facility, as well as to Paws & Claws thrift shop where one can meet him every Friday as he works on one of the several on-going projects always lined-up for him there. The Sierra County Humane Society & Desert Haven are indeed very fortunate to count Ron as an integral part of its long-term crew.

Bullock’s receipts continue to be collected and Josephine Varnum picks them up every week, to tally them and redeem them for our organization. Please, drop-off your receipts at Paws & Claws thrift shop as soon as possible, to give Josephine time to redeem them before the program ends at the end of July, as it does every year.

Dry and moist cat food is high on our priority Wish-List at this time.

We can be contacted at 894-2778, 740-0643 or visit us at http://www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com .

Until next week, “Enrich your life, get a cat”

Week of 6/8/08 Humane Happenings

2008-06-14T17:24:00.003-06:00

Anabel & Bootz

Anabel has found her way to Desert Haven Animal Refuge, Sierra County’s no-kill domestic animal sanctuary. If some of our readers are interested in a calm, non-shedding, absolutely adorable lap dog, Desert Haven has just taken one under its wings: this 5 years old Maltese-terrier will melt your heart for sure. You can visit her at the small sanctuary’s DogTown on Tuesdays, or check her out either on our web site or on Petfinder. http://www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com

This week, we thank Harold and Julie Gilmore for donating dog food and dog treats - items we always need.

Also, many thanks to Annie & Richard Millard and to Lee Garner for their on-going support. Congratulations are in order to Leonard Bullington for recently becoming a Life Member of the Sierra County Humane Society. Leonard is very important to DHAR, as an integral part of the initial work crew that built Desert Haven from the grounds up. At that time, the entire DHAR crew consisted of Jerry and Eliana Aubin, Gene Trelewicz, Leonard Bullington and also Chuck and Linda Davis. With tenacity, good planning and a lot of hard work, they accomplished what they intended to do: build a small oasis of compassion in the heart of Desert country.

This week’s wish list: dry dog and cat food and treats. They can be dropped-off at the new Paws & Claws thrift shop located in the building formerly occupied by Southwest Small Engine Repairs, across the alley from Family Dollar on South Date Street.

We also need small plant containers. Some of our members would like to bring us some of their houseplants to sell at Paws & Claws, but we don’t have the pots to transplant them in.

Need helpers at Paws & Claws, to work a few hours a week with our crew, in a pleasant environment.

Note to the nice folks who drop-off their furniture and donated items around the drop-off box on First Street: there are unscrupulous folks who will take anything that is not nailed down. Consequently, items and furniture should be dropped-off at the new location as much as possible, when the shop is open - Wednesday through Saturday. The hours of operations are posted at our front window. For more information, contact us at 894-2778 or 740-0643.

Desert Haven beautification project is on-going. The human residents at DHAR are making things happen and it shows. Do you have Statuary, perhaps a bird bath you would like to donate? Perhaps some fun items for our walkways, or a bench, some wind chimes for Rainbow Bridge, also an interesting item or two for the Old West placita or the Trail. Contact us at 740-0643 or 894894-2778. Visit our web site at http://www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com

Week of 6/1/08 Humane Happenings

2008-06-07T09:49:00.009-06:00

Wedding party - Jerry Andrus, John & Kathryn Sphar, Deb Peters

Congratulations are in order for John and Kathryn Sphar, a work camping couple who currently reside at Desert Haven Animal Refuge. John and Kathryn recently renewed their five year old wedding vows and it was a real honor for the entire DHAR volunteer crew to be invited to their very heartwarming ceremony. This truly great couple has been living at the animal sanctuary since Spring of last year and we are very hopeful that they will continue to live on the property for, at the very least, a couple more years.

John & Kathryn renew their vows

DHAR is absolutely gorgeous at this time of the year with some of the native and semi native bushes and trees, including Desert Willows and Birds of Paradise, in full bloom.

The DHAR Beautification project has been on-going for the past several years, and everybody involved from the very start deserves a huge pat on the back. With time, patience, and loving care, the plantings are now substantial and everything around them is falling into place. The recent major movers and shakers in this on-going labor of love in the DHAR beautification project have been John and Kathryn and also Jerry Andrus, as well as Robbin of Hillsboro, who have all put their hearts into it, and it shows!

If any of our readers wishes to donate a statuary or two, some wind chimes or a bench for Rainbow Bridge Pet Cemetery, perhaps a bird bath, some fun or interesting items to decorate the Old West Placita for example, or something special for the main entrance to the building and Dog Town, please consider contacting us for pick up at 575-740-0643 or 894-2639, or drop it off at Paws & Claws Thrift Shop, when we are open for business from Wednesday through Saturday.

Erin, Rick, Karma, & Eliana

Rick and Erin are now settled as DHAR Animal Care providers and Caretakers. Hard working young folks who genuinely care about animals, they both are becoming a real asset at our animal sanctuary. Rick is already making his mark as he goes around the entire DHAR property, insuring that everything works well and what does not gets fixed as needed. We at Desert Haven feel very fortunate to have this young and energetic couple on board.

Greatly Needed: Volunteers to help for a couple or so hours each week at Paws & Claws, Dog walkers for some of our smaller dogs. Wood burning or wood carving tool set, to help us make needed signs throughout DHAR. Someone to work either from home or Desert Haven on Tuesdays, to handle one of DHAR programs, which involves light paperwork and some phone calls.. Of course we always need dry pet food and treats.

NOTE to Arlene who recently called from Hillsboro about a have-a-heart animal trap, please give us your phone number again - We could not understand it on our answering machine.

We can be contacted at 575-894-2778, 575-740-0643 or visit us at www.deserthavenanimalrefuge.com.

In Memory of Annie 1994-2008

2008-06-07T09:28:00.005-06:00

Annie in Eliana's arms

I cherished my little girl.

I found her 14 years ago, during the month of May. I caught this little ball of matted and unkempt fur running through the rocks and the vegetation on the side of the country road we were driving on. My husband and I were returning home from town - a 12 mile trip, totally in the boondocks.

She, a Maltese, and her little companion, a very small poodle, did not even look like dogs. Their dirty hair had grown very long and matted and made them look like some unrecognizable wild animals. They had obviously been lost for some time. I still don't know how they survived in the desert, maybe by eating insects. They both were unusually still fond of insects long after they had been brought back to health at my house.

That day, when we stopped the truck, they ran across the road away from us, and in a minute, they were already gone, deeper into the desert brush. I ran after them as quickly as I could, over the rocks and around the cactus...with my high heels and dress....must have been a funny sight!

It took over 45 min of running and trying to coax them both. Annie, a tiny little girl-dog at the time, only a couple of months old, was tangled up in a cholla cactus. A piece of long-needled cholla was caught between her little legs, against her skin and her matted hair. She could not go any further. She stopped, waiting for me to reach her...uneasy...totally exhausted and surely in pain.

It took all I had to coax her without being bitten by the little poodle who was protecting her. I was afraid they both might run from me again. I finally picked her up and the poodle, which I later named Amos, followed a few feet behind us.

Eliana with Amos (left) and Annie(right)

It took many weeks for me to bring Amos and Annie back to health. They were in very bad shape. I took care of Annie's infection caused by the piece of cholla embedded in her skin. Amos and Annie were very afraid of people. My husband could not pet them for months. They ran back to me as soon as he started to walk towards them, and they hid behind my feet or got very close against my legs.

During the summer, they became my constant companions and I was in seventh heaven. Amos and Annie would not leave me for a second when I was home. I absolutely adored the two little ones. Later on that same summer, Amos was caught by three coyotes. I will never forget that tragic experience. But Annie and I became even more attached to each other. She was my precious little angel - we had a very special bond, she and I. I called her my "Scoobidoo Love Bug". I really miss my little angel.

Chacotah, Eliana & Annie

Week of 5/25/08 Humane Happenings

2008-06-01T17:56:00.005-06:00

Annie

The Dog Days of Summer are just around the corner and it’s no wonder that one can already feel the new canine energy throughout Desert Haven Animal Refuge, Sierra County’s no-kill domestic animal sanctuary. Most Summer swimming pools are already out at Dog Town, for all canine residents to use and enjoy - and enjoy they sure do!

This week, we have several young kittens available for adoption through our Adopt-a-Pet Referral program, that Stan Brodsky kindly took over recently and is operating from his home in Hillsboro. Two of them are short haired, about 8 weeks old, both with colors of brown, black and yellow. The other two kittens, a female Calico and a male Tiger Stripe, with shades of grey and white, have blue/grey eyes. Interested in adopting a small kitty or two? or perhaps you prefer a dog? Contact Stan at 575-895-5551 or visit us at Petfinder.com, through a link from www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com

If any of our readers without access to our local newspaper wishes to use the internet to keep up with the weekly happenings at Desert Haven, Camille Pronovost of Florida updates our blog regularly at http://www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.blogspot.com. Not only current and informative, it is also full of great photos of DHAR’s companion animals living their lives to the fullest while waiting for their forever home, as well as photos of their environment and, just as importantly, of the wonderful volunteers who, through their dedication and hard work, give those non-human residents of the no-kill sanctuary the second chance that every creature on this Earth rightfully deserves.

This week’s high priority wish list: dry dog and cat food, bird and sunflower seeds for our doves and peacocks, chicken scratch for our bantam chickens and roosters. With Summer almost here, several of our long-term volunteers are taking some much needed vacation. We need help to fill-in while they are gone: dog walkers and kitty cuddlers at Desert Haven, any day of the week. Also needed: volunteers to help us complete our relocation in our new Paws & Claws, now located across the alley from Family Dollar. Contact us at 575-894-2778 for more information on how you can help further the cause of Sierra County’s unwanted domestic animals – including sharing in the care of the lucky ones who found their way to Desert Haven.

Our mailing address is: POB 638, Williamsburg, NM 87942. You can also visit us at http://www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

In Memory of Annie, Eliana Aubin’s treasured little girl-dog, and of Casey, Leonard Bullington’s beloved constant canine companion, also to all those who recently have lost a dear animal friend:

“Our pets - angels without wings who fill our lives with wonderful things – their memory will be in our hearts forever”.

Humane Happenings

2008-06-01T17:30:00.005-06:00

Jerry Andrus

Now that the warm weather is finally here (forget that we were freezing on May 15th and 16th), we are changing the regime for the pets at the refuge, as all pet lover should. Exercise your pet in the cool of early morning and in the evening after sunset. If you have to leave your animals outside for the whole day, make sure they have adequate shade and plenty of water. When traveling in a vehicle, make sure the animals have plenty of air along with bottled water and a dish. Large cities frown on animals being left in a car or truck for even short periods of time.

Jerry Andrus, an extremely reliable workcamper, recently signed up for a life membership in the Sierra County Humane Society. Jerry has been responsible for getting most of the workcampers to be members of SCHS. Just a reminder to those of you who have been members in the past or who have not renewed for this year, please do so. Your membership is the backbone of all our activities.

We have found a way to recycle your old cell phones, so please bring them to us at Paws and Claws. If you bring your accessories, we can sell them at a reduced price to others. Our bag sales of great merchandise continue, so come by and see what you can’t live without.

Ruth Wenning, a long-time supporter, came by the refuge with donations of dog treats, a blanket and a ham for the workcamper’s lunch. Several months ago, Ruth rescued a dog that she was unable to care for and brought him to us. His name was Sport and he has since been adopted out to a loving family. Just another success story!

This week’s wish list: dry dog food, volunteers at Paws and Claws Thrift Shop and at Desert Haven Animal Refuge. For more information or to volunteer a couple hours a week, contact Freddie at 575-894-2778. Check out our website at www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

by Dolly Loftus
DH Exececutive Secretary

Week of 5/11/08 Humane Happenings

2008-05-17T14:19:00.003-06:00

Desert Haven Placita

Life at Desert Haven Animal Refuge continues at its normal pace: hectic. Not only are the workcampers busy with animal care, but this week we have been dealing with leaky waterlines, watering and pruning the vegetation, and creating new walkways through the grounds. John and Katherine are the head honchos on doing the walkways. Our new workers from Virginia, Terry and Sharon, have quickly adapted to life on the desert even though they make comments about how dry it is. Both are tireless workers at the refuge and at Paws and Claws. Teresa and Floyd were with us for a week, because they were bored at the RV park where they were staying and wanted something to do. The work BORING quickly left their vocabulary after a few days with us.

Moving to our new Paws and Claws location continues to be a work in progress. We are continuing our bag sales at the old location in an effort not to have so much to move. Last Saturday, we had a sneak preview sale at the new store. A lot of great customers came out and left with some treasures they couldn’t live without. A big “thank you” goes out to all those who worked in the store and the customers who support us.

The generosity of our supporters continues to amaze us. The Clelland’s are continually sending us checks and donations of cat and dog food. Muriel Clark from Canon City, Colorado recently made a donation in memory of Dorothy Plaatje. A gentleman came by the shop last Thursday and gave Freddie a check from the Homeowners Association out at Unit 8 in Elephant Butte. What an unexpected delight that was! A lot of people don’t even care about recognition: they just leave things on our doorstep. Thank you one and all.

For more information or to volunteer a couple hours a week, contact Freddie at 575-894-2778 or checkout our website at DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

by Dolly Loftus: DH Administrative Assistant

Week of 5/4/08 Humane Happenings

2008-05-07T10:53:00.007-06:00

Jo Wishnie & Karmalita

This week, we wish to thank Jo and Fred Wishnie of Milwaukee Wisconsin, for stopping by Desert Haven Animal Refuge for a couple of weeks as they are traveling across the US. “The Wandering Wishnies” (as they call themselves) stated in Jo's blog that they “decided to shed the trappings of 'normal life'; home, family, jobs, possessions ....... and go off to see the world”. Jo & Fred assimilated very quickly to the daily routine of caring for the non-human residents at the sanctuary, while also making many new friends. Before they left DHAR, they made a point to donate their almost new bicycles to be sold at Paws & Claws thrift shop – a thoughtful gesture that was very much appreciated. Desert Haven was also the subject of Jo’s journal posted on her exceptionally well done blog.

Camille Pronovost - DH Webmaster & Blogger

Camille Pronovost, who, since the winter of 2007, has sponsored and maintained the Desert Haven web site from her out-of-state home, also posts the Sierra County Humane Society’s article “HUMANE HAPPENINGS” on this blog. Camille not only created the blog, but she also updates it weekly. She also includes in the blog digital photos depicting the life at DHAR for the human as well as the non-human residents of the small sanctuary. Animal loving folks from all over the US who are interested in DHAR and in what it stands for can keep up with Camille’s blog. Scroll down to the previous post for another link to Jo and Fred’s Wishnie’s journal along with the dates for their visit to Desert Haven. Well worth reading!

Desert Haven is small and certainly can’t compare, of course, to larger sanctuaries such as Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah or those operated by large and well-funded Humane Societies throughout the US. Regardless, what we do here at Desert Haven is just as important and just as worthwhile. We realize that we cannot save all the animals that need saving, but we know that we make a difference in the lives of those that we can save. That in itself is very heartwarming for all of us who love animals and who want to leave this Earth a little kinder than when we found it.

This week, several small kittens - 3 females and 1 male -are available for adoption through The Sierra County Humane Society Adopt-a-Pet Referral program, handled by Stan Brodsky of Hillsboro. Stan also maintains a current list of other dogs and cats in need of adoption through that specific program. He can be contacted at 575-895-5551.

For more information on The Sierra County Humane Society, Inc., Desert Haven or Paws & Claws Thrift Shop in T or C, or to volunteer to help the cause of domestic animals in Sierra County, contact us at 575-894-2778.

The "Wandering Wishnies" visit Desert Haven

2008-05-04T14:22:00.005-06:00

All of us at Desert Haven extend special thanks to Jo & Fred Wishnie, volunteer work campers here for the last two weeks in April. Jo is pictured above, good-naturedly taking on the task of cleaning the guinea pigs' pens.

Fred is seen below bonding with Karmalita and Emmy.

In addition to all the physical help, the Wishnies also gave us some much appreciated PR on their web site at www.mytripjournal.com, chronicling their RVing adventures. Check the three posts dated April 15, April 20 and April 28, 2008 for a candid description of the "workamping" experience and many wonderful photographs.

Thanks again, Jo & Fred!

Week of 4/25/08 Humane Happenings

2008-05-04T10:35:00.003-06:00

Future new home of Paws & Claws Thrift Shoppe

Happy belated Birthday to Judy Ray and Kathryn Sphar, who, for several months now, have been residing as work campers at Desert Haven Animal Refuge, the small, no-kill domestic animal Sanctuary owned and operated by The Sierra County Humane Society.

Kudos to Mary Roden of T or C, Jodi Vandermark of Williamsburg, Vicki & Fritz Sorg of ALCO, in T or C, Fae Olson of Elephant Butte and also Fred & Carol Volguardson of Ruidoso for their donations of pet food or large items for DHAR. We also wish to thank all the animal loving folks who drop-off their contributions of pet food anonymously at Paws & Claws thrift shop, and also those we may forget from time to time in our public recognition.

A huge thank-you goes to all the nice folks who donate their used furniture pieces to Paws & Claws thrift shop. Now that the shop will soon be relocating into a more spacious building across the alley from Family Dollar, we are more than ever asking our animal loving supporters to choose The Sierra County Humane Society - who operates Paws & claws thrift shop - to donate their used furniture and large re-sellable items. As always, we are also very grateful to all our wonderful contributors of gently used items as well as of their old, their vintage, their one-of-a-kind treasures. For more information, call us at 575-894-2778.

Do you have aluminum cans to donate? The SCHS has a Cans Corral on the outside corner of Paws & Claws thrift shop. We redeem them for cash to help fund the SCHS spay-neuter program. Spay-neuter applications can be picked up at the T or C Police Station.

We also redeem your Bullocks receipts. Please bring them to Paws & Claws, the T or C Library or the Williamsburg Post Office.

This week's wish list: Pet food, Dog walkers and Kitty cuddlers. Volunteer helpers at Paws & Claws thrift shop. From Wednesdays through Saturdays, we sort through, tag and display boxes of donated items, also sort and hang clothing. We always need more helpers and soon, with more spacious quarters to display items for sale, and also a very nice working area, we certainly hope that local folks who want something worthwhile to do with some of their free time will strongly consider Paws & Claws thrift shop to volunteer at.

Stan Brodsky of Hillsboro has kindly taken over the posting and updating on the Petfinder.com web site of the animals ready for adoption at DHAR. The easiest way to check out the list is to click on www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com, then click on the petfinder.com link. The DHAR web site was made possible by Camille Pronovost of Florida, along with this blog that animal loving folks won't want to miss. For more information on the SCHS and DHAR, contact us at 575-894-2778.

Week of 4/20/08 Humane Happenings

2008-04-25T15:20:00.003-06:00

Kathryn

For some time now, Kudos has been due to Ray Hodges of Hodge’s Corner Restaurant in Elephant Butte. A well-known and well-liked community minded business owner and operator, Ray has been very supportive of The Sierra County Humane Society over the years. This year, he donated certificates (buy one meal, get one free) to be distributed to all the new work campers who choose Desert Haven to volunteer their time until they move on to new RV’ing adventures. The folks never fail to take advantage of his generous offer, and while they often return to the restaurant throughout their stay at Desert Haven Animal Refuge, they also share with their friends from all over the US their warm feelings about the area and also about Hodge’s Corner Restaurant and its generous and kind-hearted owner.

Welcome to DHAR, Rick and Erin. This friendly and energetic couple has taken the position of Animal Care Provider at the sanctuary and is now residing in the fifth wheel donated three summers ago by Don Whitehouse of Florida and recently renovated by John & Kathryn SPHAR. While John was installing new floor tiles throughout, Kathryn lovingly added her special touch by hand-sewing brand new curtains for all the windows. Rick and Erin’s long-term contract will allow them to become well-acquainted with all the humans and non-humans who reside at DHAR, as well as with the surrounding communities.

Desert Haven Animal Refuge is enjoying spring in a big way this year, thanks to some very special folks. John and Kathryn SPHAR set up their rig at The Homestead RV site at DHAR some months ago. Everyone at the sanctuary applauded when they decided not long ago to stay at the small sanctuary for at least a couple of years. Soon after they arrived, they very tastefully decorated their own RV site with many of the amenities of a permanent home site. Their beautification project did not stop there. Thanks to John and Kathryn, pathways, bordered by a variety of rocks hand-picked from throughout the entire area, are spreading out to the entire DHAR grounds. Jerry Andrus, the CAT-MAN of DHAR, shares in the beautification efforts by adding some special touches of his own while he tends to the watering of all the newly planted native and semi-native bushes and small trees. Many thanks to The Sierra Water & Conservation District which, very generously, donates them to Desert Haven each spring.

Jerry Andrus

Robbin Brodsky, a certified Master Gardener from Texas, drives once a week (all the way from her home several miles beyond Hillsboro) to take care of the grounds at the sanctuary. Every Thursday morning, one need not look very far to find her with gloves and pruning shears in hand, or a shovel and a container, giving the extra touch here and there on a property that grows more and more attractive each year.

Here at the sanctuary, we take this quote to heart “Let no man hang his head in shame and say: it was better here before you came”. Thanks to folks who care, Desert Haven is becoming a true haven in the heart of Desert country, for humans and rescued animals alike. Contact us at 575- 894-2778 or visit us at www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

Moose Lodge Donates to DHAR

2008-04-17T09:49:00.003-06:00

MOOSE DONATION TO DESERT HAVEN ANIMAL REFUGE

Eliana Aubin, President of the Sierra County Humane Society and CEO at Desert Haven, Sierra County’s No-Kill domestic animal sanctuary, receives a check of $2500 from Ken Johnson, Governor of Moose Lodge 2050. The very generous donation is to go towards repairs and upgrades at the sanctuary. In handing the check to Eliana, Governor Johnson said: “In a way, it’s in memory of Jerry Aubin. Jerry loved the Refuge and he always talked about the work that was being done there. He was very proud of Desert Haven“.

IN MEMORIAM
Jerry Aubin
Charter Member
Treasurer & Financial Advisor - SCHS
"LOVED BY MANY - RESPECTED BY ALL"

Jerry Aubin was an integral part of Moose Lodge 2050 since 1996, first as Treasurer, then as Lodge Governor and also Trustee. Jerry also served as Treasurer of The Sierra County Humane Society & Desert Haven from 1990 to 2005, until he passed away on April 9th 2005 - three years ago.

Also on top photo: Ron Alleman, Administrator of MOOSE Lodge 2050, and Linda Estavillo, Facilities Manager at Desert Haven Animal Refuge.

Week of 4/13/08 Humane Happenings

2008-04-17T09:29:00.004-06:00

Walt & Carl work on the cement floor

This week, The Sierra County Humane Society wishes to acknowledge the members of MOOSE LODGE 2050, for their very generous donation towards upkeep and repairs at Desert Haven Animal Refuge, Sierra County’s no-kill domestic animal sanctuary. Year after year, Moose Lodge 2050 continues to be very generous to the community and The Sierra County Humane Society is most grateful to be a recipient of the generosity of its members.

A sincere thank-you is also in order to the Rotary Club of T or C for their recent donation. Special thanks to T or C Rotarians Sandra and James Cliborne, who made it a point to add their own personal contribution as well.

Gretchen Tatsch of Las Cruces is very special to everyone involved with DHAR. A Humanitarian in the genuine sense of the word, Gretchen never fails to support DHAR in a number of ways, in-between the routine trips that she makes to India to help enhance the quality of life in that part of the world.

Molly Williams deserves a huge amount of recognition for her personal contribution to help make DHAR the success story that it is. Several years ago, Trish, a little girl-dog patiently waiting at Dog Town for her forever-home, melted Molly’s heart one day and soon went home with her to become part of Molly’s family. From that time on, Molly has been a strong member of the DHAR crew of volunteers and supporters. Thanks to Molly’s generosity, there is now a very attractive park bench at Rainbow Bridge Pet Cemetery, dedicated to the memory of her mother who spent her own life to help others. When the need arose some time ago, Molly, a school teacher, accepted to handle the weekly loads of laundry generated by the residents of Dog Town and The Cool Cat Neighborhood. When Lucky, DHAR first canine resident, became very ill earlier this year and started to lose his appetite and a lot of weight in the process, Molly started to drop-off at the sanctuary daily portions of home-cooked Chicken & Rice that Lucky seemed to prefer above any other food. Thank-you, Molly, there is a tender spot for you in the hearts of the animal-loving folks who know you.

This past Tuesday was the last volunteer work day at DHAR for Carlton Morse, a Sierra County winter resident from Back East. Because of Carl who, together with his helpers, worked very hard for the past several months, DHAR now owns a very spacious workshop, complete with cement floor, workbench and many other amenities. Also thanks to Carl, we now have a well built wooden clothes rack at the new Paws & Claws thrift shop to be opened soon. Thank-you, Carl, you will be remembered fondly.

This week’s wish list: large brown paper bags for Paws & Claws bag sale currently going on at the store’s current location - volunteers to help at the thrift shop and Desert Haven. We can be contacted at 894-2778 or visit us at www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

Humane Happenings

2008-04-09T16:13:00.002-06:00

Dolly Loftus - DH Administrative Assistant

Spring has sprung here at Desert Haven Animal Refuge. The scenery is as beautiful as ever and the desert plant life along the river is turning green. To complement nature’s handiwork, Tuesday’s work group has been planting seedlings and transplanting more mature bushes and trees to the pet cemetery. Doors and windows have completely enclosed the new workshop, thanks to Carl and Ron. Two new kitty condos were built; one is named Ted’s Cathouse in honor of its builder who recently left for home in Colorado. Those cats have some really plush quarters and plenty of love and attention from Judith and Jerry.

We have two happy dogs ready for adoption. One is Emmy, a cocker-spaniel mix, who is being foster-cared by one of our work campers, Judy. Emmy is house-trained, playful and an excellent companion. She has a cocker face and body, but a long swishy tail. However, Judy’s CAT says that Emmy is taking too much of Judy’s affection and is getting a little jealous. Our other dog is Zip, a one year old male Chihuahua. Here’s a great intelligent pet for all you small dog lovers.

Rebecca Porter from over Deming way sent Freddie a wonderful “thank you” note for her tour of the facility. She hopes to someday do something similar in her area. Carol Tavis has been volunteering in the office for the past few weeks and is an outstanding computer whiz. Thanks, Carol. We look forward to more of your help.

Our wish list for this week: canned and dry cat food, sunflower seeds, wild bird seed, volunteers at Paws and Claws thrift shop, Dog Walkers and Kitty Cuddlers at Desert Haven Animal Refuge. For more information or to volunteer a couple hours a week, contact Freddie at 575-894-2778 and check out our web site at DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com

by Dolly Loftus

Humane Happenings

2008-04-09T15:47:00.003-06:00

Stan - a DH volunteer

Things have been exciting for the past month or so with the set-up of our new store and the half-price sale continuing at the old Paws and Claws. Our customers are eagerly asking questions about the new store as they take advantage of our bargain prices.

We really couldn’t do any of this without our volunteers, both local and work campers. What a spirited and happy group, who pitch in and do whatever is necessary! Milt and Judith Papas got creative and insisted on painting the wall close to the “Book Nook.” Needless to say, it has given that portion of the store a whole new Southwestern flavor. Unfortunately, we are going to lose these two tireless volunteers on April the second. Ted and Fay, repeat work campers from Colorado, will be leaving us the end of the week. These people are typical, “What do you need us to do?” Please come back next year.

We are extremely excited by the donations from the Moose (picture and details in two weeks) and the Elephant Butte American Legion whose picture and details will probably be published in this week’s newspaper. It continually amazes us to see the generosity of our local businesses and civic organizations. You know we couldn’t do it without you.

On a sad but positive note, there is a tribute to our Refuge dog Lucky, who recently died of lymphoma. The segment was compiled by Camille, our webmaster and Stan. It’s extremely moving: check it out at deserthavenanimalrefuge.com.

Unfortunately, our wish list always seems to be the same: canned and dry cat food, canned dog food, sunflower seeds, volunteers at Paws & Claws thrift shop, Dog Walkers and Kitty Cuddlers at Desert Haven Animal Refuge. For more information or to volunteer a couple hours a week, contact Freddie at 575-894-2778. Check out our web site at DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

by Dolly Loftus

Tribute to Lucky

2008-03-20T18:41:00.012-06:00

Lucky's Story

The Beginning by Teddi Bynum

Lucky didn’t figure into anybody's plans. Not the plans of the people who found him wandering along the highway one day and certainly not the plans of Desert Haven Animal Refuge. Desert Haven wasn't open to dogs yet. No kennels, no dog facilities at all.

The staff that day could easily have said no, and that would have been that. And who knows, maybe they would have if they had foreseen how Lucky would test Desert Haven's commitment to its guiding principle: no animal, once granted asylum, will ever be asked to leave.

He wasn't exactly a puppy when he turned up, but still a kid, a little boy. And for a long time he remained the only dog, an only child with the place to himself. We who cared for him, fed him, cleaned up after him and chatted with him, belonged to him alone. He didn't have to share so he didn't learn to.
But little by little the kennels were built and other dogs moved in. To us, they were refugees just like Lucky. To Lucky, they were trespassers.

It would be one thing if Lucky was, say, a Chihuahua, but he wasn’t. He was a Staffordshire Terrier, with the stature and gait of a pro linebacker and who-knows-how-many psi of jaw strength. His resentment towards most other dogs posed not just a nuisance, but a menace, a danger. And the measures necessary to prevent contact between him and every other dog on Desert Haven's five acres amounted to more than just an inconvenience; it amounts to…well, see for yourself.

Dogtown in bloom

He became the sole occupant of a respectable hunk of real estate, a wood fenced compound complete with a two-story condo. If the inward-sloping chicken wire trim atop the six-foot perimeter gives it that prison look, it's clearly a country club prison, earmarked for high-rolling white collar criminals.

Fort Lucky didn't go up right away. Some thought was given to alternatives. Like carting him off to a breed-specific refuge for Staffordshires in particular or "pitbulls" (often a misnomer) in general. They certainly exist, and there was every reason to believe that one could be found that would welcome Lucky. But the idea was considered just long enough to remind us how wrong it would be. To the other dogs who have come and gone, those who are here now and those who have yet to come, Desert Haven is a refuge. For Lucky, it was home.

The Middle
Reprinted from Humane News 2005 by Eliana Aubin

Lucky gives kisses to Eliana

"A happy, handsome and very well mannered young dog who loves to be around people, and especially to take them on long walks, Lucky will melt your heart. Lucky is indeed a charmer! When he is not surveying his domain at Desert Haven, at the side of a dog-walker, he spends his days watching over Dog Town from his comfortable loft at The Penthouse.

Larry & Mavis at The Penthouse

The Penthouse, Lucky’s official residence, was built specifically for him by several volunteers, including Teddi Bynum, Jack Sloan and Larry & Mavis Juniper. Until last year, Lucky shared the spacious residence and its surrounding courtyard with his puppyhood buddy, Tobi, who was later adopted out, leaving Lucky without a close canine friend.

Lucky still misses Teddi, the human friend with whom he shares a very strong bond. Teddi left some weeks ago, to teach English at a China university for the next couple of years. Lucky – the Deputy-Dawg of Dog Town - does not let his sadness over the absence of his closest human friend overcome him, or the fact that he can no longer enjoy the company of Tobi, his former canine companion. He knows that he is loved and well-cared for at Dog Town and he performs his duties as Deputy-Dog very well. After all, he was raised right there, and he knows just about every inch, every nook and cranny, every filled-in-hole, every bush and even perhaps every wild rabbit on the entire property.

As the canine residents of Dog Town are adopted out and leave, full of anticipation at the chance to build a new life with their adoptive person, Lucky bids them farewell from his loft. Of course, he too, would like to be adopted and share the rest of his life at the side of his very own person, but he also knows that his ancestry may be keeping him at Dog Town. Until he crosses the path of the one special individual who will fully recognize his wonderful qualities and be willing to meet his needs, Lucky has a loving home at Dog Town and he is happy. After all, Dog Town is his home since he was a small puppy, and he knows that he is Top Dawg in the heart of all the volunteers at Desert Haven.

When you come up the long driveway to visit Desert Haven on a Tuesday, look towards Dog Town, and you will surely see Lucky, The Deputy-Dawg of Dog Town, standing up on his loft, while watching your arrival, as he waves his tail in joyful anticipation."

The Ending Contributed by Stan

"Lucky was my friend.

I’ve volunteered at the Refuge for one year now, three days each week, and that’s how many times I saw, walked with, and played with Lucky. When I first started volunteering, I’d walk Lucky, and not do much else with him. Then, one day I was trying to put the leash on him to walk him, and he grabbed one end of the leash, and started playing tug-of-war with me. Well, from that point forward, I was careful with the leash, but I also started playing tug-of-war with him, using a more appropriate toy. Then I started coming in about 10 minutes earlier each morning, and as soon as he saw my car, he found the tug-of-war toy we were using, and started running and jumping back and forth in his pen, waiting for me to come in and play with him, which I did for most of the year I knew him.

After playing with him each day, I’d start scratching him in back of the ears, as well as on his body, and from time to time, he’d jump up and either lick my face or give me a “love nip” somewhere on my body. I feel he and I became close friends as the months rolled by. And then I noticed the lumps in his neck, which turned out to be symptoms of Lymphoma, which he died from about 2 months later. But that’s not the end of the story.

I went with Lucky to the Vet when he had to be put to sleep because he no longer could eat. When the Vet put the needle in him, he turned to me (I was kneeling by his side, scratching in back of his ears), licked my face, turned back to face forward, and died. I’ll never forget that. I have a small, framed picture of him in my home. He and I were great friends and I’ll always miss him."

Lucky - Deputy Dawg of Dogtown from 2003 - 2008

"He was ours and we were his, through thick and thin, for as long as it took. That’s how it works at Desert Haven."

Week of 3/16/08 Humane Happenings

2008-03-20T09:36:00.003-06:00

A hug in the flowers

The school year will soon come to an end and The Sierra County Humane Society, Inc. wishes to thank Rita Ortiz, as well as all the Middle and Elementary school teachers who participated this year in The Society’s sponsored Adopt-a-Classroom program. KIND News, the award-winning newspaper distributed monthly through the program by the National Association for Humane & Environmental Education to participating elementary and middle-school classrooms, contributes to the moral development of our community’s Youth.

One of the most important functions of any humane society is humane education. We can spay-neuter all we want, prosecute animal abusers all we want, but education is what changes people’s behavior. If that weren’t true, we would not send people to school. KIND News not only talks about proper pet care and having compassion and regard for animals, but it also sends messages about having compassion for fellow students, respect for teachers, the importance of volunteering in our community, and the need for recycling. Children have to be taught to be kind. KIND News helps them learn kindness to animals and to people.

Over the years, the Sierra County Humane Society has sponsored a large number of Elementary and Middle-school classrooms in Sierra County. Any teacher interested in receiving KIND News for the school year 2008-2009 should contact Jody Koch at 575-894-9226 or Linda Estavillo at 894-1694 before the end of school in May. The entire cost of KIND News is covered by the Sierra County Humane Society, Inc. It is totally free to teachers and the local school system. All a teacher has to do is let us know that he or she is interested in receiving the newspaper for every child in his or her classroom.

This week’s wish list: canned & dry cat food, canned dog food, sunflower seeds, volunteers at Paws & Claws thrift shop, Dog Walkers and Kitty Cuddlers at Desert Haven Animal Refuge. For more information or to volunteer a couple of hours or so a week, contact Freddie at 575-894-2778. Check-out our web site at http://www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

Week of 3/9/08 Humane Happenings

2008-03-20T09:25:00.006-06:00

Bootz hand feeds guinea pigs their favorite snack - parsley!

Welcome to Desert Haven, Merle and Ginny Josten. This friendly RV’ing couple is planning to spend a couple of months at Desert Haven Animal Refuge, to help take care of the non-human residents there. We trust that they will enjoy the friendliness of the volunteer crew at DHAR as well as of our community.

Welcome back, Ted and Fay Early. For the second year in a row now, Ted and Fay have stopped at DHAR on their way to and from their winter campground in Arizona. It is always a great pleasure to see this wonderful animal loving couple and the only complaint that we all have is that they don’t stay long enough at the sanctuary.

This week’s kudos go to Lucy Farrester – Bootz - for her on-going involvement at DHAR. She came to us a couple of years ago, when we needed extra help from our local supporters. Since then, Bootz has become one of Desert Haven’s most dedicated volunteers. When the need arises, Bootz fosters some of DHAR rescued dogs who benefit most from the extra attention in a home environment. Bootz was recently elected member of the Board of Directors and we are confident that her commitment will be long-term and beneficial to everyone.

It was a beautiful day at DHAR last Tuesday, and several members of the volunteer crew took advantage of the weather to plant a number of small native and semi native bushes and trees, that, when mature, will enhance the appearance of the entire property. We wish to thank The Sierra Soil and Water Conservation Department for donating to DHAR, every year for the past several years, a large number of seedlings of evergreen trees and bushes natives to this area.

This week’s wish list: Dry and canned pet food. Kitty-cuddlers and Dogalkers. Helpers at Paws & Claws thrift shop. The shop will continue to be open at its current location for several more weeks, before it is relocated. Please continue to support us with your purchases as well as your donations to Paws & Claws. Desert Haven is open for visitors every Tuesday, and by appointments. Contact us at 894-2778 or 894-1694 for more information. You can also check out our web sites: www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

Week of March 2 Humane Happenings

2008-03-09T15:05:00.003-06:00

Lucky

The Sierra County Humane Society president & Desert Haven Animal Refuge CEO - Eliana Aubin - was recently invited to speak at the monthly meeting of the Rotary Club of Elephant Butte, held at Hodges Restaurant. What a gregarious group of community minded folks! The generous contribution made by the club as well as those by club members Kandie Lanford of Cornerstone Accounting & Payroll Service, Ray Hodges of Hodges Restaurant, Laura Jane Tinon and several other members of the club are very appreciated and will be put to good use at the no-kill sanctuary. A wonderful group of community minded folks indeed!

Paws & Claws thrift shop is in the process of being relocated and over 19 folks came to help last Sunday. From Robbin Brodsky of Hillsboro, to Johnny and Linda Jones of Mimbres, Leo & Diana Rivera, Walt Allen, Becca Weybright, Dolly Loftus, Margo and Michael, as well as the entire volunteer crew at Desert Haven, everyone worked very hard through the afternoon and a large number of shelving was set up, cleaned and painted. We thank ALCO for donating several shelving fixtures for the new store, also Eliana Aubin, Johnny & Linda Jones for transporting them to the new location. At this time, we still need clothes racks for seasonal storage of donated clothing.

On Tuesday morning, after animal care, the DHAR crew met again at the new store’s location, together with Leo Rivera, Vicki & Fritz Sorg, Carl Morse, Robbin Brodsky of Hillsboro and Gaye. Special thanks are in order for Darren Travis of Pizza Hut, for giving a special discount on enough pizza to feed over 26 workers at lunch time. We also appreciate the generosity of Vicki & Fritz Sorg who donated a large cooler full of bottled water, ice tea and soft drinks for everyone present. What a great group of workers and supporters!

On a sad note: Lucky, the sweet and gentle Desert Haven canine mascot, was euthanized a few days ago. He had been recently diagnosed with lymphoma, a rapidly spreading form of cancer in dogs, and his quality of life had degenerated quickly over the last couple of weeks. Cutting his life short was a very difficult decision that was not made lightly. Losing Lucky hurt just as much as if he was our very own dog. In a way, he was, to all whose lives he had touched, as they volunteered their time at the Sanctuary throughout the five years that Dog Town had become his home. Lucky did not die alone; Two of his many friends were there with him, Freddie Loveless of DHAR and Stan Brodsky, who had driven all the way from Hillsboro that morning, especially to be near him during the last moments of his life. Lucky was indeed very special to all of us. We will speak of him often, so his memory does not faint into the night. He was ours and we were his, through thick and thin, for as long as it took. That’s how it works at Desert Haven.

Week of 2/24/08 Humane Happenings

2008-02-27T19:28:00.001-07:00

Jeannette with Scotty & Bud

These are busy times for The Sierra County Humane Society and Desert Haven Animal Refuge, Sierra County’s no-kill, domestic animal sanctuary. The Society’s major fund raising activity, Paws & Claws thrift shop, is being relocated in the building where Southwest Small Engine Repair Shop used to operate from, and the new location will provide much more display as well as work space. We trust that our supporters will continue to be as generous as they have been, in their contributions of good recyclable items to benefit the animals of Sierra County and Desert Haven. The relocation is being handled within a time-frame and at this time, we need volunteers to help us set up shelving and store fixtures that we recently purchased from a store that closed its doors recently. If any of our readers wishes to help us out in some way, please contact Freddie at 894-2778 for more information.

This week’s Kudos go to Jeanette Galliard of Albuquerque, for her continued support of our organization. Not only does Jeanette provide straw and alfalfa to Desert Haven on an on-going basis, but she also shares in the daily care of the non-human residents at the facility while she is enjoying her Rest & Recuperation time (R & R) at Caballo Lake RV Park one week a month.

This past Tuesday, thanks to Jeanette’s generosity, the volunteer work crew enjoyed a variety of delicious pizza for lunch – and plenty of it! What a treat!

This week, we wish to thank Mary Roden, Annie & Richard Millard, Vickie & Fritz Sorg of ALCO, Bill & Mary Jane Clellan, Patricia Trujillo, Al Skinner and the several anonymous contributors of food or cash to purchase food for our animals. Also kudos to the owners of Kirikos Family Funeral Home and Bartoo Sand & Gravel, for their generous donation towards improvements and repairs that need to be made at Desert Haven. Desert Haven is open for visitors every Tuesday, and by appointments. Contact us at 575-894-2778 or 894-1694 for more information. You can also check out our web site www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com.

Week of 2/17/08 Humane Happenings

2008-02-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Lance - the partially blind Cocker Spaniel

This past week has been full of challenges for the active volunteers of the Sierra County Humane Society, Inc. & Desert Haven Animal Refuge, Sierra County’s No-Kill domestic animal sanctuary. Paws & Claws, the Society operated thrift shop, will soon be relocating into the larger building across the alley from Family Dollar, and preparations are being made to allow a safe and quick transition - not an easy task for our small crew of volunteers. At this time, we welcome the help of any of our readers interested in joining us to make the relocation easier. Please contact Freddie at 894-2778 for more information.

Judith Papas was the volunteer “Chef of the Day” this past Tuesday, and her Italian eggplants casserole was well received by the fifteen folks sitting at the oversized table at lunch time that day. This year’s winter crew at DHAR has been great, in many ways. Among other things, everyone deserves a huge pat on the back for pitching in as they have, so that the Tuesday lunches could be as tasty and plentiful as they have been for the past several weeks.

These next couple of weeks, the crew will need extra help with animal care at Desert Haven, because of a shortage of volunteers caused by in and out-of-state vacations and hospital stays.

Thank-you, Kathryn Spahr for grooming Lance, the tan, happy & always ready for a walk, partially blind cocker spaniel rescued by one of our volunteers from a busy Albuquerque intersection last Summer. The scared little dog could not see his way out of the maze of speeding cars and it would have been his death sentence for sure, had one of us not been there - at that moment in time -to rescue him from his ordeal. Life has a way of working out sometimes, even for helpless and almost blind little dogs like Lance.

We at DHAR consider ourselves truly blessed with the arrival of Kathryn and John Spahr of Washington State several months ago. This very special couple has a huge part in the team spirit and the congenial atmosphere that is being felt at Desert Haven at this time. It is heartwarming to have such truly wonderful people living and working at the sanctuary. John and Kathryn are planning to stay several years with us– we are blessed indeed.

This week’s Wish List: Cat food – dry and canned. If you are walking for your heart, take a dog with you. To know more on “Take a Dog on Your Walk”, contact Freddie at 894-2778. To find our more about us, check out our web site: www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge.com