Another Update on Florida Basenjis

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