Indigo Rescue is a non-profit animal rescue organization with a goal to end pet over population and abandonment in the greater Portland, Oregon community.
Heather Hines, President of the organization, took some time out of her crazy schedule for Q & A:
What are some of the day to day challenges you face running a pet rescue?
We partner with county shelters and intervene when they contact us about dogs who are failing in the shelter environment or have come in with serious injuries. Generally, because of overcrowding at the shelters, we operate under a time constraint when trying to put dogs in compatible foster homes. It’s always a scramble to find a foster home fast enough. Of course, without a compromised economy, fundraising for a non-profit animal rescue is always a challenge, so you can imagine what it’s like now!
(Read Fresno’s story here.)
What is the perfect day for you?
One without crisis…but there’s no such thing in animal rescue. Our work is never done.
What was the one moment that made you go WOW – I am doing something good here?
There really wasn’t one moment. Every time we’ve had a dog or cat that was badly broken, abused or challenged in any way, then recovered and found a great home, we feel great. Every spay/neuter event we’ve hosted and prevented thousands of additional births, we feel great.
(Read Savannah’s story here)
How many animals are in your care now?
Our group generally fosters between 35-50 dogs at a time, and a few cats. As soon as a slot opens in a foster home, we fill it!
We hear a lot about dog rescue in Portland, OR but what about cat rescue? Is the need just as great or greater?
MUCH GREATER. 500 cat rescues will not fix the cat problem. It would only enable our community’s failure to commit to their cats for their entire lives. It’s simple math. There are too many cats and not enough homes. There are too many people who move and leave their intact cat behind to fend for itself while it produces more kittens. SPAY/NEUTER, SPAY/NEUTER, SPAY/NEUTER.
What is it about cats you love?
Their way of showing affection and their unique, funny personalities.
What are some questions that people should ask themselves before bringing a pet into their family structure?
- Can you imagine yourself providing a home for a pet for between 12 and 20 years in spite of any of life’s unexpected changes?
- Does your schedule allow you to provide adequate training (‘cuz surprise, they don’t train themselves…), exercise and stimulation for your pet?
- Are you comfortable living with all of a pet’s little issues (barking, shedding, etc.)
- Can you afford routine or urgent vet care?
- Can you imagine your pet as a member of your family and household, rather than occupying your garage or yard?
What is it about dogs you love?
Their playful innocence and devotion.
What is the best thing someone can do to help an organization like yours?
Donate, host fundraisers, foster a rescued dog, volunteer, or…board your dog at our cage free boarding at Indigo Ranch!
How can people get involved with Indigo Rescue?
Sign up for our volunteer yahoo group by going to our website clicking the Volunteer page. Volunteer emails go out once or twice a week and advise people of what we’re doing.
(Read Lilly’s story here)
How can people reading this help you right now?
Make a tax deductible donation to our $10,000 challenge, deadline December 31st, 2009.
Thank you Heather! Great information and lots to think about…I know times are tough, and even tougher for a non-profit. If you can give $5 – that $5 can really make a difference. Indigo Rescue, PO Box 554, Beaverton, OR 97075.
Doxzen Pet Photos will be donating $5 for every 10×13 print that is ordered from your photo shoot to Indigo Rescue!
Dog kisses- PW
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