N AT I O N A L G W P R E S C U E
NGWPR Responds as the Number of Dogs in Need Grows
By Diane Turner
As National GWP Rescue, Inc. moves into its third year of operation, the number of dogs coming into the rescue program is ever-growing. The program’s strong response to the need for shelter support, education and foster care has rocketed NGWPR into the national breed-rescue spotlight. By the time this issue of the WireNews is in your mailbox, nearly 50 rescue dogs will have found forever homes thanks to the efforts of NGWPR volunteers. And as you read this, twenty-some desperate dogs will be safely settled in NGWPR foster homes receiving medical care, training and much needed attention. There is no doubt that the program’s success is due to the dedication of the 49 volunteer coordinators, fosters, transporters, evaluators, mentors and fund-raisers. But as the number of GWPs receiving services increases, so does the need for more funding. NGWPR Treasurer Amy Cunningham estimates that the cost to keep the program operating on this level is between $20,000--$25,000 per year. The majority of the funding comes from the generosity of our GWPCA members. This year NGWPR’s fund-raising activities at the 2012 National Specialty will provide the financial foundation for the rescue program to continue its work. Patti Roberts, NGWPR Fund-Raising Coordinator and her team have plans well in hand.
Topping the list of activities will be the traditional auction of the Ugly Duck Print on Sunday evening at the Awards Banquet. To preserve the old print that has traveled the world, last year it was matted and framed. Though its history and charm are still there, the piece will now be a beautiful addition to any home for a year. Topping the list of NGWPR National activities will be the annual auction of the Ugly Duck Print Last year’s winning bid of $500 went to GWPCA members and long-time rescue supporters Carol and Tommy Cagle. Both Tommy and Carol had a special love for and understanding of GWPs in need. Through terminally ill, Tommy was determined that he would out-bid all others for the Ugly Duck Print. That night nearly $1,000 was earned due to the numerous donations from the folks who were outbid. Once again NGWPR will host a raffle. Ed and Niki Shupp have donated a beautiful Coach purse for the raffle and nationally-acclaimed sculptor Leslie Hutto has offered a numbered bronze of a Wire in the field. And the silent auction is shaping up with donations of many coveted items. Among the items are jeweled show leads, hand-crafted knives, indestructible crate pads, leather leads and collars, dog toys and treats and the item that is causing a buzz across the country--the sterling silver belt buckle with the image of a GWP on point offered by NGWPR transporter/evaluator Steve Minas. If you are not able to go west in October, but wish to place a bid on a silent auction item, contact a friend who will be there or one of the NGWPR coordinators and we will place your bid.
If you can’t attend Nationals, have a friend or one of the NGPWR coordinators place your silent auction bid!
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WIRE NEWS
©2012 GWPCA