Recently a sad turn of events meant that places quickly had to be found for seven little dogs, four starving horses and one precocious parrot. When their owner passed away, these beloved creatures were in imminent danger of seizure unless homes could be located – immediately!
The word went out via Facebook, flyers at local post offices, telephone chains, and local hairdressers. Neighbors jumped in to help feed, donors anonymously gave hay and grain. Dan Horton, DVM, of San Cayetano Veterinary Clinic in Rio Rico, generously offered free vaccinations for all the dogs – and even took one himself. Before you could say “Woof!” Sonoita animal lovers rallied and all the dogs were in foster or forever homes; a wonderful young couple from the Canelo Cowboy Church took on the job of fostering and rehabilitating the horses, and the parrot went to live with a flock of other African greys.
Thanks to Ernesto Echeverria, Nogales Public Fiduciary, for his compassionate and professional service, and to all the Sonoita and Patagonia folk who helped create the safety net that saved these much-loved animals.