INTERVIEWS:
We occasionally talk with people that work in animal rescue. Maybe their stories will inspire you to take action for the animals!
New interview: Lynn Hummer, Founder of Pregnant Mare Rescue (2/24/08)
New interview: Beverly Sebastian, Founder of Second Chance at Life (2/24/08)
Older interviews:
Laura Beck of Rocket Dog Rescue (3/25/07)
Abigail Christman, Board Member of Operation Scooby (12/30/06)
How did Operation Scooby come to be?
“OS was formed by Drs. Suzanne Stack, Carol Machery, and Bev Hollis, all of whom were already involved in American greyhound rescue. When they learned of the plight of the Spanish Galgo, it seemed a natural step to use their veterinary talents and resources to help the dogs of Scooby, the largest of the galgo shelters in Spain.
I am a 'recent addition' to Operation Scooby. After being sponsored by OS in October of 2005 on medical mission to Scooby, I was invited to join the Board of Directors of OS.”
How did you personally get involved in animal rescue?
“Way back when I worked at a teaching hospital that used greyhounds for teaching veterinary students, I fell in love with greyhounds and became deeply involved in rescuing these beautiful dogs. I learned of the Spanish Galgo years ago and was very moved by their plight as well.”
What is a typical day for you like when you are working with/for Operation Scooby?
“We start off fairly early each morning by premedicating the first dogs we will be performing surgery on, and then we check on the previous day's patients. We perform surgical procedures and any other care needed, usually taking a short break early afternoon to grab a bite to eat. We try to do as many surgeries as possible so the dogs at the shelter can be moved into new homes. Typically, our surgeries go into the early evening. After all the surgical patients have been taken care of and are settled for the night in the recovery room, we work on cleaning the surgery suite and cleaning/prepping surgical instruments for the next day. Of course, this is very simplified - our days are usually crazy in a good way! Often we work for 12-14 hours each day - and love every minute of it!”
What are common misconceptions about galgos/greyhounds?
“Many people think greyhounds are very energetic and hyper animals. They are, actually, very docile and even lazy lovebugs! Most greyhounds and galgos prefer to spend their days lounging on a couch, not running around a yard. They are athletes, I grant you that, but they are built for speed, not stamina. Most of my greys spend 23.5 hours each day sleeping!
Another common misconception is that greyhounds and galgos are not safe to have around cats, small dogs, and even children. Many greys are actually very good with small animals and live happily with them. There are many greys who, because of their prey drive, are not suitable for living with small animals, but so many are small animal safe!”
What is the best thing the average person can do in the interest of galgos/greyhounds?
“Become involved - however you can! Financial help is always welcome, as is donation of supplies (medicines, medical supplies, coats, collars, blankets, etc.). Many groups can use volunteers if the groups have kennels, and volunteers are the backbone of all successful rescues. Many talents can be put to work in the name of rescue - just let a group you're interested in helping out know you'd like to help. Humane Societies often have volunteers come in to walk and groom animals. There are many opportunities! And of course, the most important thing to do to help ANY organization, not just greyhound/galgo groups, is to adopt an animal from a shelter and be a responsible pet owner!”
Do you have any advice for anyone who has thought about volunteering in animal rescue but hasn't taken that first step yet?
“Contact the group you are interested in! We rescue folks are always happy to add caring volunteers to our ranks!”
-- Operation Scooby --
photo courtesy of Operation Scooby