Over 2 years ago a woman named Jan began her mission to rescue dogs that were living on the Fort McDowell Reservation. Most of these dogs were abandoned or dumped or just the result of overpopulation and no spay or neuter. They are not feral in the sense people think of feral. They are not wild or vicious. They are scared, lonely and just need to be taught about trust and love.
In the dead of night the Fort McDowell Reservation dogs begin to emerge from the dark shadows; foraging for food and water near the casino and service station. Until recently, Jan was one woman alone, with a tender and loving hand; luring the hungry and scared dogs so that she could capture as many as she could find foster space for while providing food and water for the others. She returns over and over to repeat the cycle. Over the past two years Jan has successfully rescued 26 dogs and puppies. Most of them went to a ranch foster home and were adopted out from there. Unfortunately, the owner of the ranch received complaints from the neighbors and can no longer foster. Jan estimates that there are 15-20 more dogs/puppies that remain in need. Sadly their time is running out as they are considered a nuisance by the Casino and Tribal Police.
Jan’s efforts have come to the attention of the Lost Our Home Pet Foundation and they have been helping with food for the dogs for the past nine months. Recently 2nd “Chance” Dog Rescue heard of the plight and also teamed up to help in Jan’s effort to save the McDowell Reservation Dogs. Rescuers from both of these organizations have begun to join Jan in her nighttime forays to care for the dogs and capture as many as they can take in for fostering.
They still need help though! There is an enormous need for foster homes and they desperately need assistance with vet bills for vaccines, spay/neuter and any necessary medications for any unknown conditions they might have. So far they all appear pretty healthy, just hungry and thin!”
Diana Czarnecki is coordinating the donations and fosters. Anyone interested in fostering can email Diana at cdczar96@aol.com.
Donation can be sent c/o: Lost Our Homes Foundation
Memo on Check should read: Donation for McDowell’s Res. Dogs
Send checks to: Diana Czar – 2449 W Angel Way, Queen Creek AZ 85242.
Related posts:
Saving the McDowell Reservation Dogs – Progress Report, Debbie Schallan (Aug 4th 2009)
McDowell Reservation Dogs Update – 10 to go, Debbie Schallan (Aug 14th 2009)