A Refuge for Unwanted Jack Russell Terriers

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Dear Friends,

Well, I think we are just about ready for winter to come to the Refuge. We made some improvements this year. Good sturdy roofs were put on all of the outside pens and some outdoor lighting was installed around the kennel. Susan and Sammy have been working hard to enclose the pens with tarps, adding some new clear ones that will let the sun in and allow the dogs to see out. The dogs will benefit from new, heavy rubber mats in pens and kennel runs, preventing their feet from getting sore from the gravel. The pens have been equipped with heated water bowls, eliminating the need for switching out frozen water buckets several times a day! The painting will have to wait until spring. All this and more was helped greatly by the successful fund raiser hosted by Doug and Sue Tack while their daughter Erin did an amazing job running it as her project for her Girl Scout Gold award. This prestigious award is the female equivalent of the Boy Scout's, Eagle Scout award.

We had a good number of adoptions this year, however there is a never ending supply which keeps us running above capacity. Once I get to the paperwork I'll give you a count of placed dogs. From memory I think it exceeded fifty, and there is still a little over a week left to adopt more!

Looking back, 2011 brought the loss of some of our dearest dogs... our beloved Ashley, saintly Gibbs, diabetic Barkley who was discovering a joyous life, little old blind and starved Blinky, my darling Vicki and a one eyed stray named Rocky who took my soul with him. Despite all efforts they could not be saved. Sadness yes, though some degree of comfort can be taken knowing they were loved at last and had the best of care.

For me, winter is a time of reflection and healing. I now look forward to the long nights and moonlit walks with the dogs in the quiet stillness that renews one's strength and sense of purpose. I will embrace it and think of you who so graciously continue to support the refuge and make it all possible. In this season of joy, rejoice for those that have been saved and are now in loving, forever homes.

There is much I would like to express to you, but in your heart I think you know these things. I am so very grateful to you and count you among our many blessings.

With all good wishes,
Dale

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