While some folks were attending church and others were sleeping in, the amazing volunteers with Mutts and Mayhem were out in the summer heat helping a total stranger. They were stomping through the terrain just off of the Bush Tollway.

Back story: Last Tuesday, Erica Cruz hitched a ride to work with a couple of friends. Her 11-month-old white Labrador named Daisy Mae insisted on tagging along. Suddenly, the car they were riding in was hit from behind by an 18-wheeler. In addition to a sprained ankle and whiplash, Erica’s back was fractured in two places. Luckily, the other passengers got off with minimal injuries. But Daisy Mae couldn’t be found. She wasn’t in the wreckage nor anywhere around. Erica was helpless. She was bed bound and asked for help via social media. The response was spectacular with a lot of friends and strangers pitching in.

For days, the search in the sweltering heat and off-and-on rain continued. Late this morning Daisy Mae was found in a ravine by the rescue group Mutts and Mayhem.

Needless to say, Erica was in tears when she got the news.

Daisy Mae*

In addition to being hot, Daisy couldn’t walk. Carefully, the team took her to the animal ER where they discovered her back femur was broken in several place and would require surgery in the days ahead. But that kind of surgery can be costly, so Mutts and Mayhem has reported that you can go to their donation page and specify under “donation purpose” that the money goes to Daisy’s care.  

BTW, Mutts and Mayhem is a nonprofit animal welfare group that was founded in 2013 by two active-duty paramedics. It relies solely donations. If you could spare the change, they sure could use it.

But let’s cut to the chase. If you were on the way to something or other with your BFF and were in a true-blue accident, wouldn’t you appreciate a come-from-nowhere source of strangers scouring for help? Yep! That’s what everyone thought.

* Photo and video provided by Mutts and Mayhem

It’s amazing that Daisy Mae, the white Labrador pup, managed to pull herself out of the gangbuster collision on Tuesday, July 11, and survived in a nearby ravine for days without water and comfort. Thanks to Mutts and Mayhem, she was found, rescued and taken to a vet.

But after checking with canine orthopedic specialists and her loving owner Erica Cruz, Daisy’s back left leg had to amputated due to the devastation.

She is now on pain killers, recovering and looking forward to a reunion with her family.

Nigel

According to four-year-old Nigel (a three-legged Pyrenees/poodle), “We tripods really get along quite well. Why there are even websites dedicated to our  ‘tripawd’ situation. In some way we feel so sorry for you humans with only two legs. Daisy is young and has a loving family. In no time she’ll quickly adapt to her new way of getting around.

“By the way, can you fix me up on a date with Daisy when she’s up and about?”

While Daisy and Erica are still recovering from the shock of the accident and their physical damage, their being together will help the mending.

But there’s still the funding for Daisy’s medical treatment.  Mutts and Mayhem is still trying to help ease the financial challenges that Daisy’s facing. It’s simple. Just go to this page and right under the amount of donation, click “Animal(s) you would like to sponsor.” That’s where you write “Daisy Mae.”

If you can help show your appreciation with ca-ching, wonderful. If the money just ain’t available, just send good thoughts.

* Video courtesy of Mutts and Mayhem

Paige Flink

While gobs of women gathered in the Anatole’s Imperial Ballroom to learn about leadership and opportunities at the D CEO Women’s Leadership Symposium on Friday, June 2, The Family Place CEO Paige Flink was standing on a couch in the Ann Moody Place lobby. She had wanted to attend the Anatole event, but on this day her priority was leading the army of workers and staffers in preparing for the Sunday reception for the new Ann Moody Place, with an expected attendance of 300. At this moment she was personally placing the artwork so it was just right.

Major donors for Ann Moody Place

But the artwork on two other walls in the reception area were Paige’s pride and joy. They were masterpieces — simple signs with the names of the major donors who had made this remarkable place come into being.

When TFP opened in the 1970s, domestic abuse was still in the closet and remained there for a couple of decades. According to Paige, who first volunteered at TFP and then was named executive director in 1997, that all changed dramatically in the mid-1990s. When asked what the turning point was, Paige explained, “Thanks to OJ Simpson, the world changed.” It was a wake-up call that if “a celebrity, who had made a phone call and tried to get her husband arrested and couldn’t,” how could a regular human being get help? As a result, domestic violence “became a household word,” laws started to change and “then our visibility grew starting in 1996.”

The need for shelter spurred TFP to create its Safe Campus with 110 beds in the early 2000s, but more was needed as the number of clients and their needs grew. It was in the early 2010s that Paige and TFP board undertook a daunting project to build another campus — a $13M, 40,000-square-foot facility in the medical district that would provide shelter, office and programming areas and child-care facilities. In May 2015, TFP acquired the site for their 2.42-acre dream child. Then on Thursday, October 1, 2015, it was announced at the annual Texas Trailblazer Luncheon that the The Moody Foundation had donated $5M for the project’s “The Legacy Campaign” chaired by Lynn McBee.

But as they delved into the effort, they realized more square footage and funding were needed. The size was increased to 50,000 square feet, and the goal was a whopping $16.5M.  And then there were construction surprises, like having to drill down 70 feet to hit bedrock. Still, TFP team and board directors not only managed to meet that goal, they raised $16.898M.

The facility is projected to handle 2,000 clients a year. Paige said that while the average age of their clients is 29, they do get seniors — “The oldest person we have ever served was 78 years old.”

But back to the tour of the three-story buildings that now make up the compound of safety and education.  On a wall there was a healthy smudge, evidently resulting from the non-stop moving of equipment and furniture. Paige was not a happy camper spying the imperfection. TFP VP of Development Melissa Sherrill understood, saying, “It’s like a new car. You don’t want to see the first imperfection.” But then she assured Paige that it would be gone with the final sweep of the touch-up crew.

Children’s pantry shelves

As busy as the move-in scene may have sounded, the years of planning, designing, discussing and fundraising were coming together, with the results being bigger and better than even Paige had first imagined. Nothing had been left out. There were various dining, food preparation, counseling, training, meeting, quiet and groups rooms, as well as a computer lab, a one-chair hair salon (“JoAnn’s Room”) and a wing for children’s needs provided by Crystal Charity Ball. Proudly, Paige pointed to a large storeroom with shelved walls for canned goods and toys. Why would canned goods be needed? Paige explained that for clients making the transition out of an abusive home life, they might have to explain their whereabouts to their abuser upon returning home and could simply say they went to the food bank.

Food pantry shelves

Thanks to a relationship with UT Southwestern Medical School, second-year residents will be brought to the Place by a doctor to see the clients at the in-house mini-clinic that includes examination and dental rooms. But, always searching for more, Paige adds, “The other volunteer opportunities here are for medical doctors to come to give me some night-time clinic. I have a pediatrician, but I could use more pediatricians and general medicine and gynecology.”

Dental facility

Examination room

Throughout the multiple levels were signs re-enforcing the purpose of TFP — “Take a breath. You are safe,” “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other” and “Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.” Even the pillows from the Pillow Bar are embroidered with “Dream BIG.”  

Ann Moody Place signage

Ann Moody Place bed

Bedroom suite bathroom

The residential area of apartments were painted in a blue that Paige had discovered in Charleston, South Carolina, because it was both soothing and timeless.  There are family suites and individual rooms with bathrooms and closets.

Paige Flink Healing Garden in center courtyard

In the center of the campus was a two-level courtyard. The upper level was the Make It Count Children’s Playground. The lower was the Paige Flink Healing Garden. When asked if the children’s area could use a misting system to combat the summer heat, Paige didn’t hesitate, “If someone would give me one, I wouldn’t hesitate!”

Bird Flying free of a cage sculpture

Judy Walgren’s photos

There were interior designers  like Jan Showers, Mecox, Shay Geyer, Wisteria, Christy Drew and Mary Cates, who had provided directions and resources to create a safe and nurturing environment. Utilizing art as therapy for both adults and children, Moody Place showcases local talent. In addition to encouraging artists to contribute, art-loving Joyce Goss curated “Retail is Art” for high school students to provide the collection of art showcasing food in one of the dining rooms. It turned out that all the artists were women. Rebecca Aguilar helped get Latina artists to contribute. A former client had given two sculptures. One was a woman holding an open cage in one hand and a freed bird in the other. On the wall of Paige’s corner officer overlooking the campus were photographer Judy Walgren‘s Pulitzer Prize winning photos of past TFP clients.

Lockers

Travis Hollman and his company had created walls of lockers for the clients to safe keep documents and paperwork. Paige admitted that the need was the result of client focus groups.

Melissa Sherrill in Barkingham Palace

The SPCA had been a fabulous resource on how to run the Barkingham Palace, a kennel that included a washing machine, dryer and even a quiet room for families to spend time with their pets. While that had been underwritten, Paige admitted that the food was still in need of financial support.

Looking out on the grounds from a third-level terrace, Paige limited photography of the exterior of the building or the surrounding area. No photo could be taken that might hint of Moody Place’s location. Security had been a priority in every aspect of its creation because that was the first step for her clients’ recovery from lives of fear and abuse. As Paige said, “Once you’re behind the walls, you’re totally secure.”

Ann Moody Place is breathtaking and unfortunately so needed. That’s why Paige admitted that her future will be filled with fundraising for its operation. Her hope is you will support Moody Place, but never need it.

For more photos of Ann Moody Place, check MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

Starting back in 1918, Emma Wylie Ballard launched what would be Dallas’ oldest non-profit, non-faith based adoption agency — Hope Cottage. And while it may be celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, Hope Cottage is still known for being for the young and the young-at-heart. That’s why it kicked off its 100-year celebration on Saturday, June 3, with a walk around it new digs in the Wilson Historic District with families, friends and the four-legged types. Here is a report from the field:

Carmyn Neely, John Dickey, Melissa Tamplin Harrison, Scott Sams and Brooks Quinlan*

The damp weather on Saturday, June 3, did not deter stalwart families, fans and supporters from turning out for the 1^st Step Up for Hope charity walk kicking off Hope Cottage’s yearlong centennial celebration. Participants began their walk at the agency’s spiffy new home in the Wilson Historic District.  Moms, dads, kids, friends and pets ambled along a scenic path winding through the bucolic streets of the Wilson, past turn of the century homes, lovingly restored and maintained by the Meadows Foundation. KRLD anchors Melissa Tamplin Harrison and Scott Sams, Adoption Ambassadors for Hope Cottage’s centennial year celebration, served as celebrity MC’s.  Both Melissa and Scott are adoptees and Melissa was adopted from Hope Cottage at the age of 16 months. 

Ranger*

Nathan “stepping up for Hope”*

Team BKD was the team raising the most funds with Team Stevens raising the most funds as a family.  Ranger and his sassy bandana won the award for the Best Dressed Pooch at the Pooch Parade.  Sponsors for the event included BKD, LLP (Premier Sponsor), RGT Wealth Advisors (Water Sponsor), Gensler (Pooch Parade Sponsor), Bioworld (T-Shirt Sponsor), Carlotta Rhoades (Breakfast Sponsor) and Jenny L Womack, P.C. (Entertainment Sponsor).

Hope Cottage is Dallas’ oldest nonprofit, non-faith based adoption agency. Since 1918 Hope Cottage has been building and nurturing families through education, counseling and adoption services. Those interested in learning more about upcoming centennial celebration events, should contact Hope Cottage Chief Development Officer Leslie Clay at lclay@hopecottage.org or 469.917.2535. 

* Photo provided by Hope Cottage

This past Saturday area animal shelters were busier than a bee at the Arboretum. The occasion was “Clear The Shelters,” that literally adopted out a lot of the pooches and felines. The Dallas Animal Shelter alone found new homes for 324 dogs and cats.

Of the thousands of animals at area shelters, some are strays, but many are family pets that have been turned in due to lack of funds. According to Operation Kindness CEO Jim Hanophy, “Economic reasons account for 25% of the pets surrendered per year.”

That’s right. Many man’s best friends and felines had to be turned in because the money just wasn’t there for food and health care.

Adopted cat (File photo)

In the past the North Texas Food Bank’s Food 4 Paws and the North Texas Food Pantry have helped provide food for pets whose human companions are strapped for funds.

Recently, the North Texas Pet Food Pantry has relinquished its program to Operation Kindness. The new program will be called Operation Kindness Pet Food Pantry.

North Texas Food Pantry President/Founder Cheryl Spencer reported, “I’m so honored that the hard work and effort that went into the North Texas Pet Food Pantry will be sustained by Operation Kindness. This pet food pantry is such a vital part of the community and I’m grateful that it will be continued on.”

In addition to providing free pet food, cat litter and flea and tick prevention for up to three months, Operation Kindness is “launching the Royal Vaccination Fund to help provide low-income families with access to rabies, parvo and distemper vaccinations. This program is inspired by an Operation Kindness foster family who experienced the devastation of distemper, when their foster dog Princess lost six puppies to distemper.”

Survivor of distemper (File photo)

To get things rolling Artist for Animals has “matched the first donation of $2,500.”

Anyone who has seen a dog suffer from this incredible painful and contagious disease knows that this undertaking is an excellent idea.

Of course, Operation Kindness is eager to have donations of money and dog and cat food from individuals and companies. But the Carrollton-based, no-kill adoption center is also looking for volunteers “to assist with donations and supply pick up and pet food distribution.”

Any pet owner in need of the services provided by Operation Kindness Pet Food Pantry or the Royal Vaccination Fund can apply online. Once they qualify for the programs, they can pick up for the food at Operation Kindness on the third Saturday and Second Wednesday of every month between noon and 3 p.m.  Eventually, the plan calls for distribution locations throughout the community.

Jim’s vision is “a world where all cats and dogs have loving, responsible, forever homes and this pantry is going to help keep pets out of shelters and in their homes.”

At Saturday night’s SPCA of Texas black-tie “Fur Ball” in the Omni Dallas Hotel’s Dallas Ballroom, there was good reason for tiaras to be the accessory du jour. Sure, the theme was “Reigning Cats and Dogs,” but a surprise announcement added a special sparkle to the night.

2017 SPCA Of Texas Fur Ball “Reigning Cats And Dogs”*

It was the revealing of a million-dollar gift from Russell “Rusty” Dealey to support the 41,000-square-foot rescue center that opened in 2015. In addition to serving as headquarters for the SPCA’s Animal Cruelty Investigations Unit, the facility is able to house up to 500 animals in cases where large or small seizures of animals are required and provides for full medical facilities for triage and behavior training on site.

Debra Burns and Russell Dealey*

In honor of the donation, the center will be named the Russell E. Dealey Animal Rescue Center. 

When the announcement was made, the surprise was real even for those close to Rusty. Even his cousin Dallas Morning News CEO Jim Moroney III and Rusty’s accountant didn’t know of the gift.

Jim probably thought the news of the night involving the family was the paper’s receiving the 2017 Mary Spencer Humanitarian Award for its “comprehensive, ongoing coverage of the loose dog problem and subsequent suffering of animals and people in Southern Dallas.” According to insiders, he didn’t know what his cousin was up to.

According to SPCA of Texas Senior VP of Development Debra Burns, “We are so delighted to have the Dealey name continue their legacy of giving to the SPCA of Texas. Russell is a caring and generous man to animals.”

The Dealey legacy with the SPCA started back when the organization’s facilities were located on Riverfront Blvd. (formerly known as Industrial Blvd.) for 40 years and was known at the E.M. “Ted” Dealey Animal Care Center. It was named after The Dallas Morning News patriarch G.B. Dealey’s son Ted, who was publisher of The Dallas Morning News and an animal lover. The capital campaign for the center was spearheaded by Ted’s son/G.B.’s grandson, Joe Dealey Sr. and George Jalonick.

When the SPCA learned that the Dealey facility was going to be demolished due to highway construction, a campaign for the current Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center got underway. To help things along, a gift of $1M was provided by the estate of Betty Moroney Norsworthy, who was G.B. Dealey’s granddaughter, Ted’s niece, Joe Sr.’s cousin and Jim’s aunt.

To continue the tradition, Rusty is the great grandson of G.B, the grandson of Ted and the son of Joe Sr.

Confused? Don’t worry. Just be happy that the SPCA of Texas has $1M for a much needed facility, thanks to Rusty.

* Photo courtesy of SPCA of Texas

Just 10 days before the SPCA of Texas‘ Fur Ball 2017 at the Omni Dallas Hotel, the Reigning Cats and Dogs patrons were hosted by Wealth Strategist from Northern Trust at Amy and Malone Mitchell‘s estate. The weather was just perfect for guests to enjoy the view of Turtle Creek from the outdoor terrace. While there were no SPCA residents in attendance, the Meow Margaritas, the chocolate mousse shots and chicken lollipops filled the critter bill. Here’s a report from the field: 

Mitchell terrace

In the golden glow of the late summer sunset on Wednesday, September 20, in the heart of Highland Park, patrons and friends gathered at the home of Amy and Malone Mitchell to celebrate the SPCA of Texas’ Fur Ball 2017, Reigning Cats and Dogs. Guests sipped champagne, wine and the signature drink for the evening, the Meow Margaritas featuring Milagro Tequila, as they chatted with excited anticipation about the upcoming gala.  

Guests were serenaded by pianist Kevin Sutton as they toured the Mitchell’s stunning mansion and lush grounds.

Don Lindsley, Claire Schwartz and Alex Winslow*

An overabundant table of savories were enjoyed, including chicken quesadillas; chili con queso and roasted pepper salsa; towers of cheese, crackers and charcuterie plates; mountains of summer vegetables with red pepper and spinach hummus; herbed chicken lollipops and prime rib bites. Delightful desserts included decadent chocolate mousse shots and chocolate-covered roasted marshmallows. The evening’s sublime food was provided by Wendy Krispin Catering.  

Cindy Lindsley, James Bias, Sandra Fite and Alanna Sarabia*

As the evening wound down, words of appreciation filled the air. Alex Winslow, Wealth Strategist from Northern Trust, Patron Party Sponsor, thanked friends, patrons and SPCA of Texas staff for their partnership, and celebrated helping to find all of the animals a “Fur Ball forever home.” SPCA of Texas President and CEO James Bias thanked Northern Trust for their partnership, thanked Chair Cindy Lindsley, Auction Chair Sandra Fite, the Fur Ball Host Committee and Auction Committee for their amazing work to make this year’s event a stunning success. He also thanked all Fur Ball patrons for helping the organization “to say yes to helping animals, whether we’re saving an animal on a cruelty case, providing spay or neuter services to pets in Southern Dallas and most recently, saying yes to caring for over 600 animals in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.”

Debra Burns, Greg Cannon, Kristy Parker and Russell Dealey*

Board Member Stacey Kivowitz praised the public for the fantastic response to the need of animals and their people in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. Sr. Vice President for Development Debra Burns thanked the SPCA of Texas’ staff, Board of Directors and all Fur Ball committees and sponsors and invited everyone to, “Get your dance cards ready and your dancing shoes on!”

Arnold and Mary Spencer*

Lynn McBee, Jodi Benefiel and Diane Brierley*

Steve Atkinson, Karen Urie and Ted Kincaid*

David and Carolyn Kubes*

Guests included Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones, Russell Dealey, Lynn McBee, Diane and Hal Brierley, Katy Murray, Alanna Sarabia, Stacey and Don Kivowitz, Gloria Snead, Steve and Marty Scruggs, Krista Tankersley, Marsha Pendleton-Gray and Dr. Richard Gray, Steve Atkinson and Ted Kincaid, David and Carolyn Kubes, Karen Urie, Betsy Orton and Sharon Fancher, Kristen Greenberg, Linda Chapa, Ann and Sanjay Agrawal and Deb Goldstein.

*Photo credit: Thomas Garza Photography

With loads of animals hitting the SPCA of Texas facilities thanks to hurricanes and abusive situations, a black-tie crowd of more than 800 guests rallied in the Omni Dallas’ Dallas Ballroom on Saturday, September 30.

But before that happened, the crowd at the “Reigning Cats and Dogs” was shoulder-to-shoulder with tiaras topping coiffured heads in the lobby. As Barbara and Jim Moroney headed to the registration table, other members of The Dallas Morning News family like longtime DMN photographer David Woo were already partying. Only seemed appropriate, as the DMN was to receive 2017 Spencer Humanitarian Award.

Russell “Rusty” Dealey and Debra Burns*

But there was still more news to come during the meal. SPCA Development Director Debra Burns recalled how before moving to the state-of-the-art Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center on I-30, the SPCA had occupied much smaller facilities just off of then-Irving Blvd., now known as Riverfront Blvd. It was named the G.B. “Ted” Dealey Animal Care Center. Debra told how on her first day with the SPCA, she had discovered a photo of Joe Dealey and George Jalonick at the opening of the facilities back in the 1970s. That set her sights on continuing the family’s involvement in the 21^st century SPCA. Sure, the late Betty Moroney Norsworthy’s estate had contributed a $1M gift to kick off the fundraising in 2003 for the future Rees-Jones facility. But that was more than a decade ago, and the SPCA’s programs and services had grown dramatically. She got together with Ted’s grandson Russell “Rusty” Dealey and the two of them pulled off a major surprise that was only revealed at the gala — Rusty’s gifting $1M for the 41,000 square-foot rescue center that opened in 2015. According to Debra, not even the family nor Rusty’s accountant knew about his generous gift.

Amy Bailey and little fella

Lynn McBee, Joe B Clark and Paige McDaniel

But before the announcement of the gift was made at the dinner, the cocktail reception continued with Amy Bailey cuddling up with a “boy toy” looking for a permanent hug… Lynn McBee may have been solo because husband Allan McBee was out of town, but she soon ran into Paige McDaniel and Joe B Clark… Katy and Lawrence Bock reported that they were still getting rave reviews from the Cattle Baron’s Ball Live Auction preview at their home base in Preston Center. Katy, who will be co-chairing the 2018 CBB, said things were moving along, but she sorta hated the thought of just one more year with the organization. Seems CBB bylaws require old CBB chairs to retire from hands-on involvement. Lawrence comforted Katy by saying there would probably be other organizations in her future…. Checking out the acres of silent auction items were Mary Frances Burleson and Lori Ferguson ….Alas, longtime animal-loving Diane Brierley was a no-show. But, she had a valid excuse. Earlier in the day she had hurt her paw foot and was homebound. 

Lawrence and Katy Bock

Mary Frances Burleson, James Bias and Lori Ferguson

Once the ballroom doors opened, the fundraising ramped up. Here’s a report from the field:

Each beautifully appointed table was graced with gorgeous floral centerpieces complete with golden crowns thanks to Dr Delphinium. The delightful dinner included a salad of butter lettuce and seasonal greens salad with spiced pecans, goat cheese, and pancetta served with a Sherry Vinaigrette along with entrees, either Beef ‘Wellington’ petite filet and slow roasted salmon with mushroom duxelle, puff pastry, Pomme Dauphinois, green bean bundle, baby carrot, roasted radish and acorn squash bordelaise or Herb Creamed Spinach Stuffed portabella mushroom with steamed rice, green bean bundle, roasted vegetables baby carrot, acorn squash and radish in red pepper sauce. The delicious dessert was a Black Forest cheese cake with chocolate and vanilla sauce with a gold-flecked cherry garnish.

Subbing in for WFAA’s Ron Corning, who had to bail out due to a previous commitment was “Good Morning Texas’” Alanna Sarabia wearing her glittering Fiesta Queen crown. As past reigning Miss San Antonio and Fiesta Queen, her platform was the importance of responsible pet ownership as well as spaying and neutering pets to curb overpopulation for the health and safety of the community. Ms. Sarabia spoke about the importance of pets in all our lives, remembering that pets were furry siblings as she grew up and an important part of her life ever since. She thanked guests for their support and partnership to help the SPCA of Texas rescue, heal, and find homes for abandoned and abused animals.

SPCA of Texas President and CEO James Bias, welcomed guests, staff and volunteers, thanked sponsors and shared with guests the important work the SPCA of Texas is able to perform thanks to the community’s support, such as saving animals on a cruelty case like the 100 dogs seized from a puppy mill the previous Monday, providing spay or neuter services to tens of thousands of pets in Southern Dallas and all of North Texas, and, most recently, saying yes to caring for over 600 animals in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. James also thanked the SPCA of Texas’ board of directors for their guidance and spoke about how the SPCA of Texas’ staff, volunteers and partners are intently focused at all times on saving lives, making a difference and never resting until the organization makes our community a better place for people and their pets. 

Jocelyn White and Katy Murray

James and SPCA of Texas Board Chair and Chief Financial Officer for A. H. Belo Corporation Katy Murray presented the 2017 Spencer Humanitarian Award to The Dallas Morning News for their comprehensive, ongoing coverage of the loose dog problem and subsequent suffering of animals and people in Southern Dallas. Publisher of The Dallas Morning News Publisher/A.H. Belo CEO Jim Moroney accepted the award, and was joined by several members of the editorial staff. The Spencer Humanitarian Award, named for warm-hearted entrepreneur and long-tenured, past SPCA of Texas Board member Mary Spencer, recognizes an individual, company or group whose extraordinary efforts have made a positive difference for animals. The Dallas Morning News has and continues to shine a light on the heartbreaking issue of suffering on the part of people and pets taking place in the most underserved area in Dallas. Their coverage in no small part contributed to the subsequent funding of the largest-scale spay/neuter, vaccination and microchipping effort in the nation to date by many of the most prominent charities in North Texas. Their voice, calling attention to animal issues, is loud, clear and unwavering, and the pets and people of North Texas are fortunate indeed for this.

SPCA Senior VP for Development Debra Burns wrapped up by thanking guests, and announcing a surprise $1 million gift from Russell E. Dealey. The SPCA of Texas is grateful for Mr. Dealey’s tremendous gift, and has re-named its Animal Rescue Center in Dallas the “Russell E. Dealey Animal Rescue Center.”

Guests then bid often and bid high on the evening’s nine fabulously over-the-top live auction items and “Pony Up for Paws” raise the paddle feature. High-rolling patrons won delicious dining experiences, glamorous getaways to Telluride and New York City, a decadent “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” spa and shopping package and more. The top three live auction items of the evening were all once-in-a-lifetime experiences. One of these was a two day, two night package for four to the world-renowned animal sanctuary, the Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison, Texas, complete with personalized tours and more. Others were a getaway to Mountain Lodge in Telluride, Colorado and a fabulous Thanksgiving Day in New York, New York.  

Fur Ball 2016 then brought the high-voltage fun with headline entertainment by Dallas’ ultimate party band, Limelight. Guests rushed the dance floor and partied until after Midnight. 

Fur Ball 2016 was a tail-wagging success thanks to Event Chair Cindy Lindsley; Event Co-Chairs Laura Floyd, Allie Jarvie and Jennifer Lindsley; Auction Chair Sandra Fite and Auction Co-Chair Cameron Gummer.

The SPCA of Texas sincerely thanks special partners, including 

• Diamond sponsor: Russell E. Dealey;
• Sapphire sponsors: Barefoot Wine and Bubbly, Lydia and Bill Addy, Colin and Sandra Fite, Marsha Pendleton-Gray and Richard Gray, H/3 Foundation, Northern Trust, Trevor and Jan Rees-Jones and Sewell Automotive;
• Ruby sponsors: Dr Delphinium and Rebecca Farris;
• Emerald sponsors: Carla J. Brandt, Linda and Ozzie Chapa, Jill Bee and Loren Glasser, Guaranty Bank and Trust, Holly and Philip Huffines, Nancy and Ty Merelli, Milagro Tequila, Thompson and Knight Foundation, Come from Away – A New Musical and Webb Family Foundation;
• Corporate Royal Gem sponsors: AG&E Structural Engenuity, Alliance Insurance, Cityvet, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Hollywood Feed, Merck Animal Health, Heineken, OrangeTheory Fitness, Origin Bank, PBK, RKD Group, Swiss Avenue Women’s Guild, Tejas Ranch & Game Fence, VCA Animal Hospitals, Vinson and Elkins LLP and Whole Foods Market;
• Media Sponsors: Modern Luxury Magazine and Slingshot.

Guests included the Rees-Jones clan (Jan and Trevor, Jenny and Trevor, Margaret and David), Sally Anne Hudnall, Stacey and Don Kivowitz, Gwen and Leldon Echols, Gigi Potter Salley, Phillip and Holly Huffines, Beth and Steve Jarvie, Lynn and Peter Dauterman, Meredith Perot, Peter Addie, Kirsten Burns, Jill Bee and Dr. Loren Glasser, Linda and Ozzie Chapa, Betsy Orton and Sharon Fancher, Judy Davis, Gus Hinojosa, Teresa and Chic Henderson, Steve Atkinson and Ted Kincaid, Kelly Thompson, Dr. Rocky McKelvey, Carolyn and David Kubes, Pam Ragon, Danny Tobey and Bill Driscoll.

* Photo credit: Brett Redman

Alexandra Banister, Jacob Banister and Jeff and Karen Banister*

Texas Rangers General Manager Jeff Banister is a familiar name in the sports pages and on the evening news. But what some might not know is that he and his wife Karen Banister have two kids, Alexandra and Jacob, two Labradors (Bella and Scout) and two Maltese (Gracie and Cooper).  

Since the baseball season ended last month, the folks at Operation Kindness took advantage of the pooch-loving Banisters’ down time and arranged to have them serve as the honorary co-chairs for its 25^th Annual Canines, Cats and Cabernet at the Omni Dallas on Saturday.

Nelda Cain Pickens (File photo)

According to Operation Kindness CEO Jim Hanophy, “Canines, Cats and Cabernet gets bigger and better every year, and we are honored to celebrate our 25^th anniversary of this event with Jeff and Karen Banister. We know that with their support we will be able to knock this year’s event out of the park.”

But the Banisters aren’t the only ones cheerleading for the organization. Operation Kindness supporter Nelda Cain got involved with the no-kill shelter through her friend/OK Board Chair Kathy Kinser. As Nelda explained, “I have loved getting to know the powers that be at Operation Kindness and feel my efforts are entirely worth it. It is the oldest no-kill shelter in Dallas and serves the entire county including Fort Worth. It is also amazing what a following the organization has attracted, as the work is needed and successful.”

One of the highlights will be the furry guests of honor that have loved staying at Operation Kindness, but would love to find permanent homes.

Hoss*

Abby*

Cupcake*

Marlon*

In addition to a dinner and a live and a silent auction, there will be a raffle for a seven-night stay at an RCI Resort in the city of the winner’s choice plus a $500 Visa gift card for airfare. Chances are just $50, but are in limited supply.  

Tickets are the gala are available here.

* Photo courtesy of Operation Kindness

According to SPCA Of Texas Volunteer Janice Anderson,

Janice Anderson*

“My wish is that all animal lovers include the SPCA of Texas in their will and estate plans. Leave a legacy and give to one of the best non-profits in our community.”

“When my husband Bill and I moved to McKinney from Tennessee 17 years ago, it wasn’t long before we discovered the SPCA of Texas McKinney facility just around the corner from our home on Stacy Road.

“We loved to stop by and see the pups and we quickly learned about all the great work the SPCA of Texas does throughout North Texas.

 “We have been donors since 2005 and have adopted six dogs from the McKinney shelter over the years. About a year ago we decided to make a future commitment by including the SPCA of Texas in our estate plans.

SPCA of Texas*

“We wanted this to be our legacy to help the SPCA of Texas continue their important work, and (as Legacy Society members) knowing that our pups will be taken care of if something happens to us, is very comforting.

“It was also my dream to become an SPCA of Texas volunteer after retiring. I began my labor of love as a McKinney volunteer last fall.

“For Bill and me, the SPCA of Texas is where our love is.

“The SPCA of Texas is the leading animal welfare organization in North Texas. Founded in 1938, the non-profit operates two shelters, three spay/neuter clinics and an animal rescue center, all located in Dallas and Collin Counties, and maintains a team of animal cruelty investigators who respond to thousands of calls in seven North Texas counties. The SPCA of Texas is not affiliated with any other entity and does not receive general operating funds from the City of Dallas, State of Texas, federal government or any other national humane organization. The SPCA of Texas is dedicated to providing every animal exceptional care and a loving home. 

“To learn more about how you can leave a legacy to the SPCA of Texas, please contact Eunice Nicholson at enicholson@spca.org or 214.461.5166.”

-By Janice Anderson, SPCA of Texas volunteer

* Photo and graphic provided by SPCA of Texas

NorthPark Center may be entering the real estate business. In the summer, there’s Dallas CASA’s Parade of Playhouses and now the SPCA of Texas is staking claim on housing. With guests like Ken Risser, Heather Nelson, Carolyn and David Kubes, Teresa and William Vit, Andi Cohen and Kim Sheldon in full Christmas attire, the Bark + Build Housewarming kicked off Home For The Holidays 2017 on Sunday, November 19. But these houses weren’t for two-legged munchkins. Think smaller and four-legged types. Here is a report from the field:

Ken Risser and Heather Nelson*

Carolyn and David Kubes*

William and Teresa Vit*

Andi Cohen and Kim Sheldon*

Tacky holiday sweaters were on display in all of their glory as designers, architects, socialites, friends of the SPCA of Texas and members of the American Institute of Architects of Dallas (AIA Dallas) and TEXO, The Construction Association jingled and mingled to kick off Home for the Holidays 2017 at the Bark + Build Housewarming Party on Bark + Build Lane at NorthPark Center on Sunday, November 19, at 6 p.m.

James Bias and Kristen Greenberg*

A plethora of delectable delicacies from the sweet to the savory and bubbly beverages were served. The evening’s superb staffing was provided thanks to KMG Events and Kristen Greenberg. 

Between grooving to the spunkiest holiday beats, provided by LeForce Entertainment, guests strolled the first floor between Dillard’s and Macy’s at NorthPark Center to view the 24 custom-made dog houses that were created especially for the Bark + Build luxury Doghouse Design/Build Competition and display portion of Home for the Holidays, which kicked off November 13. These one-of-a-kind dog houses on display and up for auction at the Housewarming party, were designed and built by AIA Dallas and TEXO, The Construction Association members, and were there until Sunday, December 3.

Vincelee Stevens, Kenna Hogan, Quinn Hogan and Jeremy Hogan*

SPCA of Texas VP for Communications Maura Davies began the awards ceremony for the Bark + Build awards by welcoming the more than 350 guests to Bark + Build Lane and sharing the SPCA of Texas’ mission to provide every animal exceptional care and a loving home and to rescue. Davies expressed the SPCA of Texas’s gratitude to NorthPark Center’s Lona Crabb, Billy Hines, Nancy Nasher and David Haemisegger, as well as AIA Dallas and TEXO, The Construction Association for their generous support, creativity and friendship. She also highlighted the SPCA of Texas’ efforts to heal and find homes for thousands of animals each year through its adoption, spay/neuter and wellness services and animal cruelty investigations and of course the Home for the Holidays event. Then, Jeremy Hogan with Sedalco Construction Services and Mary Butler, Associate at FKP Architects, introduced all of the award winners for Bark + Build. 

Adela Craddock, Macy Craddock and Phillip Craddock*

All entries for the Bark + Build Doghouse Design/Build Competition were judged on both design and construction quality by a jury panel previous to the Housewarming event. This panel included Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Board Member and former SPCA of Texas Board Member Mary Spencer, Crescent Real Estate Senior Construction Manager Miguel Villareal, DPR Construction HR Manager Monica Jacobs, Modern Luxury Texas Editor-in-Chief Rhonda Reinhart, BKD LLP Senior Associate Dustin Clanton, Craddock Architecture owner Phillip Craddock and VCA Central Expressway Animal Hospital’s Dr. Troy Cobb.

Awards presented include:

• Best in Show (1st place): D2 Architecture with Suffolk for b•ARX;
• Hot Dog Award (runner up): FKP Architects and Campos Engineering with Skanska for The Doggy Paddle;
• Teacup Pup Award: GSR Andrade and TLC Engineering with Rogers-O’Brien Construction for WinneBarco Mini Trailer;
• Big Dog Award: VLK Architects and Cadence McShane Construction for Bird Dog Blind; and
• Enviro Dog Award: DLR Group | Staffelbach with MAPP for Wag On Inn.

These winning houses were auctioned live at the Housewarming party by Auctioneer Logan Thomas and all other houses were up for silent auction the same night. The auctions raised more than $8,000.

Larry and Joan Rogers*

Additionally, it was announced that voting was open for the final award, People’s Choice, in the Bark + Build Luxury Dog House Competition at NorthPark Center!

Home for the Holidays sponsors include Presenting Sponsor: Dr. Larry and Joan Rogers; Event Sponsors: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Guaranty Bank and Trust, Kroger and the North Texas Cheddarheads; Hospitality Sponsors: Barefoot Wine and Bubbly, Heineken USA and Central Market; Dog House and Kennel Sponsors: Katy Trail Animal Hospital, North Texas Honda Dealers, Lord Green Strategies, Stand Up and Paint, Hollywood Feed and CareNow; Media Sponsor: CultureMap; and Entertainment Sponsor: LeForce Entertainment.

All money raised will go towards the SPCA of Texas’ important mission to rescue, heal, and find loving homes for homeless animals. So far, the Bark + Build portion of Home for the Holidays has raised more than $77,000 including sponsorships and auction.

*Photo credit: Thomas Garza Photography

Designer Ralph Lauren has been synonymous with luxury clothing and picture-perfect surroundings. So, Highland Park Village’s Ralph Lauren Salon was the perfect spot for a holiday celebration for the SPCA of Texas‘ Paws Cause crowd on Wednesday, December 6. Don’t be surprised if some guests at the Paws Cause fundraiser on Sunday, January 28, at the Jan Rees-Jone Animal Care Center are wearing Lauren fashions. Here’s a report from the field:

Winter-red roses bloomed all around under the magnificent crystal chandelier gracing the entryway of the Ralph Lauren Boutique at Highland Park Village on Wednesday, December 6, where ladies and gentlemen gathered in the holiday spirit to celebrate Paws Cause and shop for friends and family, all to benefit the SPCA of Texas. Guests sipped wine and champagne and nibbled sweet and savory delicacies as they browsed.  

Taylor Cousins and Kris Cousins*

Sincere thanks to Susie Swanson and Taylor Cousins for hosting and to the Ralph Lauren store for welcoming the festive crowd and for donating a portion of the proceeds from the event’s sales to the SPCA of Texas. Many of the guests were spotted walking out with armfuls of beribboned boxes and bags, admiring the gorgeous window display featuring the classic Ralph Lauren teddy bears dressed in holiday finery! 

Susie Swanson, Debra Burns and Kevin Coffey*

SPCA of Texas Sr. Vice President of Development Debra Burns thanked Ralph Lauren at Highland Park Village and Susie Swanson and Taylor Cousins for hosting the soirée. Burns also toasted to newlyweds Susie Swanson and Kevin Coffey on their recent marriage and presented them with a framed photo of the couple from last year’s event, engraved with “Furever Friends.”

Giana dePaul, Kristen Greenberg and Melissa Vullo Bell*

Russell Dealey and Mary Spencer*

Betsy Orton and Sharon Fancher*

Guests included Paws Cause 2018 Chair Kristen Greenberg, Paws Cause 2018 Co-Chair Melissa Vullo Bell, Paws Cause 2018 Bone Appetit Chair Giana dePaul, Andrea Alcorn, Karen Urie, Susie Swanson, Kevin Coffey, Phyllis Comu, Mary Spencer, Karen Lukin, Tricia Sims, Regina Bruce, Kathy Fielder, Sharon Fancher, Betsy Orton and SPCA of Texas Board Member Steve Atkinson. 

Phyllis Comu and Karen Urie*

Steve Atkinson and Scott Greenberg*

Tricia Sims, Andrea Alcorn and Karen Lukin*

Paws Cause will be held on Sunday, January 28, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center at 2400 Lone Star Drive in West Dallas. Honorary chairs are Marsha Pendleton Gray and Richard Gray.

Paws Cause is committed to supporting the SPCA of Texas’ programs that aim to support the pets and people of Southern Dallas through sponsorships and donations to help address the serious stray animal and animal overpopulation issue. For more information, visit www.pawscausedallas.com.  

* Photo credit: Thomas Garza Photography

For the usual Sunday Breadwinners brunch crowd in Inwood Village, the parking lot on Sunday, January 21, seemed a little more crowded than usual. The reason was that St. Bernard’s across the way had opened earlier than its usual Sunday noontime start.

The reason was the gathering of Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children’s patients who would be on the slopes of Winter Park at the National Sports Center for the Disabled in February for the 36th annual Amputee Ski Trip. They were at the ski-friendly store to get fitted for gear.

Crutches

Ruthie

The scene inside the store was like a pre-Christmas holiday party. Crutches were quickly stowed so kids could settle on the floor to cuddle with Ruthie, the laid-back St. Bernard mascot.

Across the way, a white-haired fella with a camera was capturing the activity. He could have easily been mistaken for one of the 14 youngsters’ grandfather. But actually he was TSRHC Chief of Staff Emeritus Dr. Tony Herring, the father of the annual ski trek. It was 37 years ago that Tony had started the TSRHC Amputee Ski Trip after hearing about a Denver program for youngsters with orthopedic challenges to head to the mountains for skiing and snowboarding.

Tony Herring

Over the years, Tony had sent off dozens and dozens of kids who had faced the loss of limbs to do more than just learn the art of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado. It was also an opportunity for the youngsters to be with others who have gone through surgeries, therapies and the emotional adjustment to being a bionic. To Tony’s delight the kids have returned with a sense of great self-esteem.

Cody McCasland and Tony Herring

But being ever the professional, he couldn’t help but check out the newest gear for the amputee patients like rock star Cody McCasland, who was born without shinbones due to Sacral Agenesis resulting in the amputation of both legs at the knee. He got his first set of prosthetic legs at 17 months and, over the years, he’s proved to be an extraordinary athlete, as well as scoring appearances on “Oprah” and “Ellen.”

Ryanne Carr

In fitting the kids with their gear, one staffer asked second-timer Ryanne Carr what size sock she would like. She smiled and said she didn’t need them. The staffer looked a little baffled. Then she pointed out that her prosthetic legs weren’t in need of socks. It seems that the 14-year-old had lost both of her legs and part of her right arm due to being born with amniotic band syndrome. A St. Bernard staffer quickly responded asking if she had a sister or brother. The answer was “Yes!” The sibling got a nifty pair of socks. Like Cody, Ryanne has earned quite a reputation in overcoming her physical challenges. The former Junior Race Director for the Dallas White Rock Marathon admitted seven years ago that, “I like to swim; I like to bike; I like to climb trees; I like to build Legos; I like to ride horses.” Now, she’s added snowboarding to that list.

This year’s junket takes place on Monday, February 12, with TSRHC pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. Henry Ellis on board, as well as TSRHC Director of Prosthetics/double amputee Don Cummings and other staffers to advise on the type of equipment that would be needed. As Tony pointed out, the trip also provides an opportunity for the staff to better understand the challenges that their patients encounter outside the hospital.

The trip is free for the kids, thanks to the Stephen M. Seay Foundation, American Airlines and St. Bernard.

The doors had hardly opened at the Jan Rees-Jones Care Center on Sunday, January 28, when the two-legged guests were filling the center for the annual Paws Cause benefiting the SPCA of Texas. Along with area chefs from such restaurants as Salum, Parigi, Pink Magnolia, Cane Rosso, Whistle Britches and 3015 at Trinity Groves, Abraham Salum was serving vittles just across the way from mama pooch Missy, who was recovering from an upset tummy. The “7-year-old Cane Corso mix came into the SPCA of Texas’ care a couple of months ago, through our Animal Cruelty Investigations Unit. She was underweight, neglected, and had tumors on her body.” She looked longingly at guests with her one blue eye and one brown eye.  BTW, her chief likes are chin scratches and giving kisses.”

Missy

Chiloso

Marlon

Ramba

While the music from Goga blasted throughout the place, pooches like Snow White, Chiloso, Ramba and Marlon chilled and gnawed on chew bones. Okay, so Tamale barked complaining that the humans were getting a big rowdy.

Edward and Sandra Melmed and Marsha Pendelton Gray and Richard Gray

In the meantime, the 250 guests including Honorary Co-Chairs Marshal Pendleton Gray and Dr. Richard Gray, Sandra and Edward Melmed, Andrea Alcorn, Phyllis Comu, Sally Hoglund, Felicia Kerney and Steve Wilson enjoyed signature drinks “Purr-ple Ritas.”

Andrea Alcorn

Sam and Pat Price

Longtime volunteer Pat Price recalled how she had gotten involved with the SPCA over a dozen years ago when she was taking out a bag of stuff to the curb and asked a young fellow  if he could help. He did. He turned out to be SPCA President James Bias, who in turn got her to start volunteering at no-kill facility.

Since that meeting Pat and her husband Sam have had many adoptive pooches. As the twosome headed home, she proudly added, “They were rescues.”

James down 40 pounds chuckled how when he had taken some of his former too-big slacks to a shelter, he was asked if he had lost someone.

Gigi Potter Salley and Don and Cindy Lindsley

Others guests included Sue and Phil John, Gigi Potter Salley, Rusty Dealey and Diane and Hal Brierley, who were still receiving condolences of the death of their beloved Labrador, Charley, on Thursday, January 25.

As the even went on, The Snyder Foundation’s Bobbi Snyder presented a challenge — “Give as little as $10 and we’ll match with $100!” Her reason was “the work the SPCA of Texas is doing in Southern Dallas, with the Mary Spencer Spay/Neuter and Wellness Clinic and across all programs and services, that she was moved to provide this match so that everyone at Paws Cause and beyond gets excited about donating to the SPCA of Texas.”

Kristen Greenberg, Abraham Salum, James Bias, Giana dePaul and Melissa Vullo Bell

When one of the packages went for $5,000, that match ended up being $50,000. Needless to say, Paws Cause Co-Chairs Kristen Greenberg and Melissa Vullo Bell and SPCA Senior Vice President of Development Debra Burns were howling with happiness over the net of $193,500+.

It may be raining cats and dogs outside, but the real animal news is being made by the folks at the Dallas Animal Services. Due to the fact that they’re operating at 90% capacity and are predicted to be on track to follow last year’s intake of 32,000 animals, they’re reducing adoption fees.

Dogs were going for $85 and are now available for $45. Instead of $55, cats can be had for a mere $35.

Former Dallas Animal Services resident

And the deal is really even better than it sounds. Not only do you get a BFF, but the fee covers spay/neuter, microchipping and vaccinations. Why, spaying/neutering alone is a three-figure fee at most vet clinics.

According to DAS Director Ed Jamison, “Dallas has one of the highest intake numbers in the country, so we are working very hard to find homes for every happy, healthy animal that comes into our care. We average over 70 dog intakes a day, and kitten season is right around the corner. If lowering the everyday adoption price helps one of our animals find their perfect home, it is worth it.”

These new discounts are good seven days a week at the DAS main facility on Westmoreland, as well as the PetSmart Everyday Adoption Center on Coit Road.

And there are even additional specials like the following

• $20 for any dog over six years, or for adopters over 65 years
• $15 for any cat over six years, or for adopters over 65 years
• Free adoptions every day for animals that have been up for adoption for more than 14 days! 

It was just like seeing parents send their children off to school and the next stages of life. The SRO crowd at the Canine Companions Of Independence South Central matriculation and graduation ceremony on Friday, February 16, came together with boxes of tissues around the room. Instead of children, the youngsters were pooches — Retrievers, Labradors and Retriever/Lab mixes.

Matriculating puppy

Marcia

For some of the dogs, it was bidding farewell to the people who had raised them over the months from puppyhood. They were now to undergo extensive training at the Irving training center to see if their destiny was to provide a unique service for a person or organization in need.

Joe and Juniper III

Joe, Juniper III, Lanaya and Michael

For a select seven that had completed the months of training, they were to officially become part of a lifelong and life-changing team.

While the post is being prepared, check out MySweetCharity Photo Gallery to see the pooches and people.

Ed and Melissa Kinkeade

Ed Kinkeade’s wife Melissa Kinkeade nudged him to keep his talk on Friday, February 16, at the Canine Companions for Independence  South Central Graduation and Puppy Matriculation ceremony short. Thank heaven, Ed turned a deaf ear to his wife.

The overflow crowd of two-, three- and four-legged creatures filled Texas’ only CCI Training Center in Irving for the program that provides service dogs free of charge to perform daily tasks for people with physical disabilities.

Jim Turner

Jennifer Brown and Jim Hinton

Despite the Irving facility’s being the sixth CCI training center, it was the first to be associated with a healthcare provider — Baylor Scott And White Health. And the Baylor crew was front and center with Board of Trustees Chair Jim Turner, Chief Legal Officer Jennifer Brown. and CEO Jim Hinton, who made the rounds visiting with the puppy raisers and showing cellphone shots of his own dogs.

Margaret Rees-Jones, Jan Rees-Jones and Jenny Rees-Jones

Also on hand for the event were donors like the Rees-Jones gals (mama hen Jan Rees-Jones and daughters-in-law Margaret Rees-Jones and Jenny Rees-Jones) and Diane Brierley (husband Hal Brierley admitted to his wife at 4 a.m. he couldn’t handle the turning over of puppies from raisers to the trainers). In Hal’s place, Diane brought along Melissa Hearon and was joined by Neiman Marcus Director of Charitable Giving Kevin Hurst, who came prepared — he brought his own tissue. Kevin need not worry. There were plenty of tissue boxes throughout the room and they were put to use as the puppies took their next step in becoming service dog companions. But the tears were quickly replaced with smiles as the seven new teams became official partners for life.

Kevin Hurst and Diane Brierley

And leave it to the dogs to relieve the anxiety of the humans in attendance. As David Lowe was midway in the pre-graduation’s invocation, a woof was heard from the back of the room.  David admitted that in the years to come, he would remember that “Amen.” Without missing a beat, Ed followed David saying, “My Baptist preacher dad would say, ‘I’ll take an Amen anyway I can get it.’”

Using his Mark Twain charm, he explained that at the Thursday night get together with the puppy raisers, he had been prepared for a dirge-like scene. Instead the raisers were celebrating their puppies “matriculating. I’m learning that word.”

Matriculating puppy

Some of the puppies had been trained by individuals and families. Some had been trained by people serving time in prison. But all had been lovingly cared for and trained. As poignant as the tales and photos were of the puppy raisers, the backstories of the seven graduating dogs’ future companions made all understand the pooches’ calling.

Following the presentation of the dozens of puppies entering the final training stage to see if they make the cut, the graduation of seven lifelong teams took place. In being called to the stage, the graduating dogs were handed over to the recipients by their puppy trainers who hailed from Montana, Houston, Huntsville, Orlando and Austin. One even came from the Canine Companions for Independence headquarters in Santa Rosa, California. It was a bittersweet moment for all, but seeing the faces of the recipients and knowing that their lives would be forever changed brought home the mission of the program and replaced tears with smiles.

Joe and Juniper III

Juniper III, Joe, Lanaya and Michael

Marcia, who suffers from Parkinson’s, was selected as the class spokesperson. With Sadie VII at her side, she read remembrances from her classmates describing the past two weeks in which the teams were matched, introduced and trained. Each was unique. There was Aaron, who despite being wheelchair bound, was on his way to college and an Eagle Scout. His mother Beverly was so proud of his accomplishments and was so happy knowing that Katherine II would be with him. 

Marcia and Sadie VII

Aaron

These were recipients and their families who had never known each other. But after going through the matching with their dogs and the bonding process had allowed them to become a unique family of people and pooches.

Jason Morgan

In the crowd was one man — Jason Morgan. Like others, he had his CCI BFF Rue II with him, but he had a backstory, too. Despite having broken his back in combat, losing a leg, becoming a single dad of three boys and his life seeming to spiral downward, the CCI program turned everything around. So much so, that his story served as the inspiration that helped Kinkeade and so many others to create the multi-million dollar facility in Irving.   

But as important as the funds have been and continue to be, there is a need for puppy raisers. They are a vital part of this life-program. If you are interested in being part of the CCI effort to help a canine on his/her first steps to its lifelong mission, check here.

2018 Fur Ball Chair Cindy Lindsley and Co-Chair Jennifer Lindsley are howling about the news that former First Lady Laura and President George W. Bush have signed as the honorary co-chairs for the SPCA of Texas gala fundraiser at the Hyatt Regency Dallas on Saturday, September 22.

Laura Bush, Freddy and George W. Bush*

If you’re wondering if the First Bushes of Dallas are animal lovers, stop wondering. They’ve gotten into the rescue world with Bob the cat that was found at the family ranch in Crawford seven years ago and feline Bernadette that used to live with daughter Jenna Bush Hager. Evidently Bernadette decided she had enough of the Big Apple and moved to the Big D.

As for the canine crowd, Laura and George met up with a “Heinz 57” cutie at the Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center a couple of years ago and brought him home. He’s named Freddy after the Bush Chief of Staff Freddy Ford.

Initially, Bob was not thrilled about the new kid in the hood, but after a couple swipes Freddy figured out the pecking order and now “Even Bob and Bernadette are finding Freddy’s charm futile to resist.”

The Lindsley gals were pulling in the “big dogs” for this 80th anniversary of the SPCA of Texas. 

Chairing the auction is Julia Howard along with Co-Chair Sandra Fite.

Tickets and sponsorships are available here!

* Photo provided by SPCA of  Texas

Allow me to tell you a story. There was this little blonde fella. For the first three years of his life, he lived with a family. They were a young family and had taken him in when he was just too adorable for words. The plan was they would all live happily ever after.

But eventually the family decided that he wasn’t the top dog in priorities and turned him in for adoption at Dallas Animal Services. Now, from the pooch’s point of view, this was pretty upsetting. He had gone from a normal routine to a pen with nearby occupants howling about their lives… and their fates.

Then Wendy appeared out of nowhere on Friday, March 30. She was a nurse and wanted a forever friend. There was a magical moment of connection. The result was Wendy adopted the little fella and named him “Charlie.” She took him home that Friday, removed his collar and gave him a bath to ward off the past. His cuteness factor soared.

The next morning, before having his collar put back on and being squired around his new Merriman Park/University Manor neighborhood, Charlie discovered a loose latch on the backyard gate and decided to discover his new world. So, off he went on a journey. The only problem was, he didn’t know his way back.

Wendy was horrified to discover that  her new pal had escaped [one person’s idea of escape is a dog’s idea of just sniffing around]. To find him was going to be a challenge for Wendy, who was relatively new to the neighborhood herself. Yes, Charlie had been micro-chipped but had no collar and the neighborhood was near some very busy roads like Skillman and Abrams and woods with predators. Adding to the problem was the fact that Wendy didn’t know his old name, and Charlie didn’t know he was now called Charlie.

Luckily, Wendy had recently join Nextdoor and posted the MIA dog. The response was immediate. Many commiserated. False alarms came in — a dog that had been found months ago; a dog three times the size of Charlie, etc.

The SPCA reported they couldn’t help because they didn’t deal with strays, and directed “Charlie Corp” (CC) to the Dallas Animal Services. When called at 3 p.m., the DAS recording reported that office hours were from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and the call was being received after hours. A call to 311 resulted in an understanding woman who said that DAS forwarded calls to them.

Then a neighbor in Vickery Meadows reported that he had spotted Charlie at Holly Hills and Fair Oaks. The race was on. Would it be a wild goose chase? But one CC member couldn’t believe her eyes when she spied the little fella in the parking lot of the Wildflower Apartment complex. She just knew it was Charlie. But as soon as she as she got out of her car, he had scooted across a busy road [Pineland] and into the woods before she could even take a picture. The apartment management team put out bowls of food and water to coax the little fellow into feeling at home. He returned the next day and once again scampered across the busy street when someone approached.

With the weekend weather threatening storms and a chilly blast, and Charlie’s shying away from anyone, time was not on CC’s side. It was now seven days since he had gotten loose. So, a shout-out was made to animal lover Kristina Bowman, who directed the effort to Pat Rodriquez, aka “the patron saint of lost dogs.” With her years of experience and her no-funny-business sleuthing, Pat didn’t hesitate to help.

Despite the near-freezing temperatures on Saturday, April 7, Pat pulled up in her Subaru with traps in the back at the last spot Charlie had been seen. It was like watching a five-star general preparing for a major battle, as Pat assessed the area, set up the trap for Charlie, and instructed how to prepare and maintain the trap. Pieces of smelly food like sardines and roasted chicken were place strategically along the paths and even in the trees around the trap. Inside, just beyond the spring plate, was a bowl of the “delicacies.” A camera was attached to a tree to record the trap’s activity 24 hours a day. Pat then told Wendy one of the most important things to do: securely affix a Ziploc with a flier showing Charlie’s photo and contact info to the top of the cage to let passersby know why the trap was there and what to do if Charlie was seen.

Within three hours, the trapdoor clamped down. Only the capture was a black cat with a definite attitude. When he was released, he didn’t blow air kisses. Instead, he hissed as he tore off across the street in the late winter chill. The trap was reset. The next time, a possum took up residence. Despite much encouragement, the possum decided to stay. Evidently, he liked his new digs — especially the menu. Eventually, room service never came, so he left and once again the trap was reset, but nothing happened. The camera reported lots of activity, especially pedestrians, “but no Charlie.”

Monday morning, a man texted that he had spotted Charlie in Fair Oaks Park and connected the blonde pooch with the signage on the trap. With sardines in hand and advice from Pat, Wendy moved the trap and strategy to a line of trees at Fair Oaks Park.

By this time, Wendy had drawn two conclusions — Vienna sausage was smellier than sardines, and Charlie was working the area along the bike path that connected the area.

Now word was getting out about “travels with Charlie” and the rescue group Duck Team 6 was on board, as well as the neighbors in Vickery Meadows.

What happened to Charlie? Ten days after he went on his little hiatus, Wendy texted early Tuesday morning: “I know it’s late but wanted y’all to wake to see the news! CHARLIE IS HOME!”

According to Wendy,

The man at the apartments that had been putting out food and water has a big yellow lab that he’s said Charlie would approach. So he came out last night late to walk his dog once more before bed. He said he brought a slip leash with him just in case. So Charlie approached the big dog and he said they were talking and he just slipped the leash on him and got him! They called me about 11:45 and I got dressed and got over and brought him home!”

The lesson learned: sometimes strangers can come together to make magic happen. None of these people knew each other, or had any personal gain from pitching in. Still, they took the time to help. This generosity of effort is true for finding a little dog or supporting a nonprofit program.

BTW, Wendy reports that Charlie is gonna have another bath, get a collar with an ID, and be kept on a leash even in the backyard until he’s more at home. And, yes, the latch has been fixed.

* Photo provided by Wendy and Charlie

According to SPCA Of Texas Volunteer Janice Anderson,

“My wish is that all animal lovers include the SPCA of Texas in their will and estate plans. Leave a legacy and give to one of the best non-profits in our community.”

“When my husband Bill and I moved to McKinney from Tennessee 17 years ago, it wasn’t long before we discovered the SPCA of Texas McKinney facility just around the corner from our home on Stacy Road.

“We loved to stop by and see the pups and we quickly learned about all the great work the SPCA of Texas does throughout North Texas.

 “We have been donors since 2005 and have adopted six dogs from the McKinney shelter over the years. About a year ago we decided to make a future commitment by including the SPCA of Texas in our estate plans.

“We wanted this to be our legacy to help the SPCA of Texas continue their important work, and (as Legacy Society members) knowing that our pups will be taken care of if something happens to us, is very comforting.

“It was also my dream to become an SPCA of Texas volunteer after retiring. I began my labor of love as a McKinney volunteer last fall.

“For Bill and me, the SPCA of Texas is where our love is.

“The SPCA of Texas is the leading animal welfare organization in North Texas. Founded in 1938, the non-profit operates two shelters, three spay/neuter clinics and an animal rescue center, all located in Dallas and Collin Counties, and maintains a team of animal cruelty investigators who respond to thousands of calls in seven North Texas counties. The SPCA of Texas is not affiliated with any other entity and does not receive general operating funds from the City of Dallas, State of Texas, federal government or any other national humane organization. The SPCA of Texas is dedicated to providing every animal exceptional care and a loving home. 

“To learn more about how you can leave a legacy to the SPCA of Texas, please contact Eunice Nicholson at enicholson@spca.org or 214.461.5166.”

-By Janice Anderson, SPCA of Texas volunteer

* Photo and graphic provided by SPCA of Texas