Dogwood Farm usually houses anywhere from 40 to 45 dogs. Most are grouped in pairs. This is our maximum capacity and we seem to always bump against it. There is no shortage of dogs needing admittance.
Most of our dogs are found on the side of the road. Unfortunately people think that it is acceptable to dump dogs and cats in rural areas instead of taking them to animal shelters. This is a horrible choice for the dog or cat as chances of survival are slim. We know that these animals don’t have any options. Sometimes, by the time we find them, their condition is compromised or they are frightened or injured.
Often, they are older pets who have endured a lifetime of neglect. We take them in and treat them. It doesn’t matter what their breed is, how old they are or if they have behavior issues. We help them and find them a place, either to live out their life here or in a carefully selected new home. This process takes time and money, but these dogs and cats deserve a chance and a life free from harm.
Occasionally, we have people contact us who have found a dog or cat that they cannot keep. They, in turn, want us to take the dog or cat because it’s not working out or they didn’t intend on keeping the dog or cat this long. Remember, we are helping a lot of dogs and cats. Each individual animal that we take also receives individual care. It is costly with time, resources and effort. There are few economies of scale.
If we have space, we can take a found dog or cat but only with a substantial donation, $5,000. While initially an individual animal may not have a lot of expenses, eventually they will, especially in their senior years. Your donation goes toward providing that care. Most dogs and cats remain at our facility for at least six months before they find another home.
We strongly suggest that you and your family consider what would happen to your pet in case of a long-term hospitalization, nursing home or death. Sadly, despite the fact that pet owners have provided financially for human family members, often these same family members who are not willing to make a donation for life-time care of the beloved pet.
If you want your beloved pet to live out his or her life at Dogwood Farm Sanctuary, you need to make provisions for this in your will. Please contact Dogwood Farm Sanctuary prior to naming them as a beneficiary. We are not able to accept pets without a donation.