Heather's Corner: Oro Valley's Own Heaven Sent Rescue Organization

Tell me one of your favorite parts of our Oro Valley Christmas Parade isn't seeing the sweet faces of Goldens from the Southern Arizona Golden Retriever Rescue (SAGRR). Anyone who's ever been in the presence of one knows why they've received the reputation of being intelligent, friendly, and gentle beings. Which isn't surprising then to learn they are the third most popular family dog in the United States. But sometimes circumstances, some intended and some not, have left these dogs in need of rescue.

The SAGRR is a non-profit, all volunteer organization here in Oro Valley that fosters and finds permanent homes for these guys. They have rescued dogs from such circumstances as divorce, neglect, allergies, financial hardship, illness, and death of an owner. Focusing only on Golden Retrievers allows them to become experts in needs, both emotionally and physically, specific to the breed and to find the most appropriate forever homes for the fosters.

"I Am Lucy"

Here is an example of one of the dogs they are currently helping and up for adoption. This beautiful girl, named Lucy, is a sweet tempered two year old. She was found abandoned by a family that hoped to make her a part of "their pack" but unfortunately their other dog did not concur. She finds herself yet again waiting for a family she can call her own. There is no doubt Lucy will make someone out there a fortunate and lucky companion.

Without volunteers, SAGRR would not be as fruitful in helping dogs like Lucy. There are three ways to volunteer. Dog-related volunteering consists of fostering, transporting, home visits, intake and placement among other tasks. An Administrative volunteer helps with bookkeeping, membership, ordering supplies, and other administrative activities.  A public relations and fundraising volunteer organizse meet-and-greets and special events.

If volunteering isn't possible, SAGRR also has a wonderful store on their website where you can purchase merchandise like calendars, shirts, dog leashes, or memberships with proceeds helping the organization. In fact, you can also purchase raffle tickets for a 2014 Jeep Cherokee by the Jim Click Automotive team in hopes of raising one million dollars for local charities. (Entries must be received by October 31st)

My prayers go out to all the animals in need of rescue out there.

It is true that rescue dogs DO make the best pets. In my life I've had two rescues and their appreciation overwhelmed me. Take some time to check out the SAGRR website and see if you can help in any way and view the dogs they have ready for adoption. And here's to Lucy! May she find her forever family very soon.

Anyone else have great experiences with rescues? We'd love to hear from you.
---
Heather Nenadovich has lived in Oro Valley a total of five years. She has a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Arizona. Her husband is Canadian so she is a hockey fan by default and so are her two very clever children. When not being a mommy, she enjoys hiking in Catalina State Park, hand building pottery, and gardening. Her favorite things about living in Oro Valley are the towns recognition of art and culture, their commitment to preserving nature and the Christmas parade. (Also anything from GMG Chinese Bistro.)