One Wag at a Time

This weekend I watched a piece on The Today Show about The Tornado Dog. If you haven't heard the story you can catch up HERE.

Watching his recovery I marveled at he extraordinary strength of people who care for injured, sick, abused and abandoned animals. 

This week's Knowsy Neighbor, Lynn Nielsen-Eeg, is a prime example of one of these people I admire, respect and appreciate. She has dedicated her time, money and endless efforts to rescuing animals from all over the country. It is her purpose, her joy, her heartache and her world.

For years, Lynn would read about abused animals, and see programs picturing mistreated pets and she would have to change the channel. Witnessing acts of abuse, neglect, irresponsibility and apathy towards the furry companions of the world caused her significant pain. This is what inspired H.O.P.E. Safehouse.

“Actively rescuing pets and promoting animal welfare allows for me to become a part of the long range solution. When faced with terrible stories about animal abuse, I no longer feel impotent,” she said.

I introduced to you , Lynn's husband and President of H.O.P.E., last week. I am so impressed and grateful to this couple and their mission – I felt they deserved to be acknowledged individually.

Jonathan and Lynn agree that H.O.P.E's number one priority is educating the public on the responsibility of pet ownership. One of the biggest challenges for Lynn in this operation is dealing with pet owners who either have no clue or simply do not care. She feels outraged when she hears of people making irresponsible choices only to then blame the animal for the consequences.

“Sometimes I will get a call and the person wants to 'get rid of' their three-year-old pregnant cat who is having her fourth litter of kittens and they are sick of it getting pregnant,” Lynn states.

Clearly, spaying and neutering is a simple and responsible solution.

“Every week, we get approximately 100 emails; each containing pictures of three to 10 animals scheduled to die within the next 48 hours. In a month's time, that adds up to between 1200 and 4000 animals," she wants people to know. "We can only take three to 10 animals, depending on our finances, foster homes and volunteer availability. Looking at all those faces and picking who lives and who dies takes a toll on my soul."

But Lynn knows that in the end it is worth it. With hundreds of stories from clients about their adopted friends, she can easily see that what she is doing is not only essential, but also bringing joy to the lives of many people and of course, many pets.

What it comes down to is acknowledging that we share this planet with animals. They are not objects or possessions. They are living creatures just as you or I. Some people get this concept and others do not. Lynn, not only gets it, she lives it, teaches it and promotes it.

“Life lessons are to be learned from your pets. Pay attention to what they are telling you. They will give you indicators when you are being a jerk. They will teach you how to relax and truly embrace the simple things in life. Bottom line is that they belong on this planet. They have a right to a peaceful existence, free from tyranny and abuse. They are living, breathing creatures who deserve our respect and compassion.”

To learn how you can help H.O.P.E. please visit their WEBSITE or call 262.634.4571