Oh, no! Why do people do these things?

I want to tell you about a terrible story I've just heard about. I want to warn you though...it’s bad, very, very bad. A lady in Bristow, Oklahoma, Paula Joseph Johnson wrote to the Fox Terrier Rescue to tell us about this terrible thing that has happened to more than 100 dogs. Yes, there are WFT's involved also, but when it is this kind of cruelty, it doesn't matter the breed of dog. Here is what she says:

Dear All,

I'm coming to you with hat in hand.

A cousin of mine and his wife founded a rescue organization a few years ago, in memory of his brother, who loved animals. They've done great work and have accomplished so much in not only rescue but also education and clinics. Their spay-neuter clinic has become a model for small, low-budget rescue groups all over the country. Just this month, they have begun converting a section of warehouse space into an adoption center, capable of holding 30 dogs.

Last Friday, although the adoption center isn't even finished, Sherry received a call about a puppy mill bust in the Oklahoma City area, involving more than 100 dogs. She went up on Friday night and came back with 30, the absolute maximum she could handle.

The story of these dogs would nauseate even the most jaded rescue worker. Rooms looked like slaughterhouses. In some cases, mama-dogs were cut from chin to tail and their pups removed when the puppy mill operators realized they were going to be shut down. The dogs were then left to die an agonizing death while their too-young pups were spirited away. There were decapitations. There were piles of decomposing animals. The atrocities go on and on. Of the 30 brought back to Bristow, three have been sent to Rainbow Bridge, as their afflictions were too great. Another two, when the vet trimmed away hair from their eyes, found that maggots had eaten their eyes, leaving only the sockets. These dogs have been treated and are beginning the healing process. One other (a Sheltie) has tick fever. That leaves 27 to be cared for. The facility doesn't yet have outdoor runs, and the dogs must be not only exercised, but socialized. Most of the dogs are small, other than the Sheltie and three WFTs. My own children know what their job is for the rest of the summer -- walking dogs and cleaning kennels. Business people are likewise stopping by morning and evening to take their turns with the dogs.

This is a small town (4000 population) and an even smaller group of rescue volunteers. The enormity of this is already putting a strain on resources, even with our wonderful veterinary affiliations and the services they provide.

So, while I know each of us already donates whatever is possible, I am asking -- begging -- you to help if you can. Any small amount will help the group help these dogs. And know the animals who created this tragedy are being pursued and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

If you can help in any small way, please send your donations to:
P.A.W.S.
c/o Main Street Bristow, Inc.
109 N. Main Street
Bristow, OK 74010

If you cannot donate funds, please give of your thoughts, your prayers, your healing energy.

Thank you,
Paula Joseph-Johnson

If you want more information, Cheryl Collins (Rescuer Extraordinaire) provided this info:

Just in case anyone is interested in this Puppy mill bust. Here is the news story. There are WFT’s involved. Go to www.kotv.com. In the left-hand column there is a link for E-Clips. Click on it and look for the Wednesday, July 12, 10 p.m. news stories. There should be one titled "Puppy Mill Bust". Warning: It's pretty graphic. My understanding is Channel 9 in OK City (also a CBS affiliate) has picked it up. Update should run tonight on KOTV here in Tulsa. Hope that helps those who need further verification

Cheryl is taking in four of these dogs. She can always use financial help. She has rescued and saved hundreds of our best friends.

If you want to help Cheryl and the Fox Terrier Rescue:

Fox Terrier Rescue
c/o Lee Eckholm
AFTR Treasurer
430 East Grant Street
Appleton, WI 54911

What a terrible thing. How awful! Mommy and I sent a donation this morning. I hope that everyone who reads this will join in with us and make a donation to help them. It doesn't have to be much, but they need our help!