It is so heartwarming to see the Basenji community pull together for these Basenjis. It may be towards the end of the week before I am able to start replying to the wonderful offers of help. We anticipated having 30 days after the court hearing on February 11 before the dogs could be released to Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT). The Appeals period was waived at the hearing, and ownership of the dogs is being transferred to BRAT. The Hillsborough County Animal Services (HCAS) will vet these dogs this week and possibly into the next week. So we need time to get our ducks in a row.
I spent the last week with in Florida working with the dogs and attending the court hearing. Pam Hamilton, our Florida District Coordinator, is physically working with the dogs along with the help of local volunteers who have been helping to socialize them. I am fielding the offers of help.
The Basenji Club of America (BCOA) has generously offered to provide crates. Carrie Jones is the liaison person for BCOA. I think it is wonderful that the Club and Rescue are cooperating to help the Basenjis. As you may know, BCOA is not a "hands-on" rescue organization, and does not actively participate in rescue. BCOA does, however, understand that every Basenji deserves a loving home and is in the midst of donating funds to help with the transition from rescue Basenji to beloved, well-adjusted pets. This transition is our goal. We are appreciate the help of BCOA.
We have been receiving notes asking about donations. BRAT has already incurred significant vet expenses as we have had the mothers, mothers-to-be, and their pups in our possession for a while. The pups range from 2 days old to 5 or 6 weeks. We still have one mother who has not whelped. The mother who whelped on Saturday spent several days at the Emergency Hospital. We almost lost her.
I have asked our webmaster to set up a link on our website so that donations may be made by PayPal, credit card through PayPal or by check. I hope to have that link up soon. Our web site is www.basenjirescue.org . Until we get the PayPal link set up, donations may be made by mail using a personal check or money order. Donations are tax-deductible. Our donation form includes the mailing address for BRAT and be found at http://www.basenjirescue.org/DonationForm.htm
Thanks for all your thoughts and concerns for these basenjis.
Debbi Johnson
BRAT Treasurer & Director
Germantown, TN
debbijbasenjirescue@comcast.net
BRAT received this message from the Florida County Attorney's Office:
ReplyDelete"Thank you for help in the Hillsborough County case. The assistance that your organization provided has saved the lives of these dogs.
"They were feral when captured. They were brought to the kennel after freezing, and starving in a five acre pasture. They never had been held or touched or treated with kindness. They were terrified of humans. At Animal Services, they received veterinary medical care, food, water, shelter and warmth. They are thriving.
"I am proud to say the basenji population has increased from 33 to 40. One of the pregnant females gave birth to 7 puppies and there are 1 or 2 more litters anticipated in the near future. Mom and puppies are doing fine. The basenjis could not have been saved without the efforts of Pam Hamilton. Pam Hamilton has been instrumental in working with the dogs and socializing them. She has also worked with staff and volunteers and educated everyone on how to work with the basenjis. She is a dedicated asset to your organization. Thank you for all your efforts for these wonderful dogs."
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