AFF Presentation at Bush School ::
Monday, May 24, 2010

Quotes from a few of the students:

"Before today I was very ignorant about the reality of rescuing animals.  I always thought that other animals were treated the same way that I treat mine.  This is false.  Although people think that they may be treating their animals fairly, in fact they don't understand the consequences of their actions upon the animals feelings.  They think that because their animal is not being treated as severely as what they might see on TV that they are good and proper owners.  In reality this is how neglect begins.

One thing everyone should realize is that there is no legislation that will protect these animals rights.  It is up to everyone who cares about animals to try and do their part in forming new ways that we can help these animals.  Confronting lawmakers and voicing your opinions in this matter is crucial in obtaining the kind of change we need.  Ultimately everyone should realize that even severely abused animals are not beyond saving.  No matter how bad they may appear, with proper care they can be rehabilitated and ready to be adopted.

This has taught me an important lesson about how we treat animals.  I learned that we need them as much as they need us and that it is our duty to protect them."
--  Bryce & Kevin

"Animals First Foundation is an important group to support because of the phenomenal work they are doing in supporting and saving animals lives.  Unlike other large well known rescue organizations, Animals First Foundation is very dependent on donations and others' dedication in order to do the same work as other organizations.  Because they don't have a facility, foster homes are essential, and I think more people should consider fostering.  Animals First Foundation should be supported because they try their hardest not to put animals to sleep, and with support and donations this would/will be even more possible.  Caring for and rescuing these sweet pets and potential best friends is expensive yet imperative and by supporting Animals First Foundation we can be assured that this will continue to happen throughout the future."
--  Danica

"Adopting a rescue animal is saving a life.  By putting your time and energy into working with a rescue animal you are saving it from otherwise being euthanized.  Instead of supporting one individual breeder or buying from an illegal or inhumane source you are saving the life of an animal who needs your care and support.  Adopting a rescue animal also gives it a second chance at life.  Abused and mistreated animals lived their lives in pain and by adopting one you can make certain that it has a really happy life.

Rescue dogs are often misunderstood.  They have lived horribly painful and tortured lives, and all they are asking for is a second chance.  They did nothing wrong, they were just in a bad situation.  They are lost and confused, and they feel like they don't have a home.  All they need is a loving home, something they have never had before"
  -- Emma

"Take a minute and think.  The puppies you see in the faceless shops, the kittens sold by the side of the roads, the advertisements in the newspapers - PUPPIES FOR SALE, 8 WEEKS OLD!.  Those animals came from somewhere.  In too many cases, perhaps even a majority of those animals came from disreputable sources.  The mills that churn out these puppies keep these intelligent animals in unimaginable conditions.  Perhaps you've seen footage on TV of these places after a bust.  Know that there are many more mills with footage too disturbing to air.  If these operations were POW camps, the conditions these animals are forced to undergo would be forbidden under international treaty.  They are that bad and protective legislation to ban them doesn't exist yet.  As such, you can protect and support the animals without giving money to the organized rings that create this terrible industry by getting your pets from shelters and more directly, rescue groups such as Animals First Foundation.  Let these stories be a call to research your potential pets' origins and please put serious thought to adopting from a rescue.  Open your wallets, open your hearts, open your homes."
--  Mary

"People should adopt rescue animals because they have been through a lot and they would be really appreciative of a good home.  If animals are already born and available then why have another animal breed?  There are so many animals in need and that are abused and killed and have to be put down every day that are very sweet and have been worked on very hard to save them.  If you rescue an animal that has been rescued, you are giving them a second chance at life, and they will reward you if you choose the right animal.  All animals have a sense of caring, and if you care for them, they will care for you.  Every animal has a perfect companion and with a rescued animal, you have the chance to give them a second chance."
  --  Michelle

"I have no voice.  I cannot tell my own story.  But look in my eyes.  Take a minute to stop and look.  I ask for nothing.  Some food and love.  I have so much to give.  Show me love and I'll show you acceptance.  Be my friend and I'll forever be yours.  I'm not the prettiest to look at.  I won't win you shows.  But I have a heart of gold and would try my best.  Give me a chance and I'll show you what a superstar I can be.

I have no voice.  I cannot speak for myself.  I cannot tell you the horrors I've been through.  Give me a chance.  I'm waiting here hoping one day someone will come and take me home.  Notice me.  I'm a rescue dog."
--  JoAnna

"When you buy from a pet store or from Craigslist, there is a large chance that the animal came from a puppy mill or other questionable origins.  This supports people who neglect animals for money.  As long as pet lovers buy these animals, these abusers can continue to profit from neglect.  Many of these pets are born with defects due to careless breeding and are malnourished.  Rescue programs take in neglected pets and give them to new, caring humans.  The animals are rehabilitated so they are adoptable.  The programs actually know where the pets go and assess the new home to make sure it is safe and long term.  Unlike facilities such as puppy mills, the dogs are able to receive medical attention.  Adopting a rescue animal means opening a space for another pet in need.  When you buy from a faulty facility, you are only supporting neglect.  Buying from a rescue means you are giving a previously abused animal a new chance.

Either way, you are getting a pet.  But when you adopt from a rescue, you are helping a community.  A community of people who are willing to help abused animals.  Make the right choice."  --  Rosalie

"My family's first pet was a rescue dog named Cleo, and for as long as I can remember, she was a faithful and supportive part of my life.  It may seem strange that a pet was such an important part of my childhood, but I think that the fact that we rescued her made her even closer with my family.  The right dog doesn't have to be a pure breed.  Cleo was a mutt - Lab/German Shepherd mix and she was healthy and gentle until the end of her life.  I've heard so many success stories like this.  What Cleo was for me could be any rescue dog for any other kid.  It's not the pedigree that makes the best family pet;  It's the personality.  Supporting organizations like Animals First Foundation not only saves the dog that you adopt, but also takes business away from puppy mills with horrible, inhumane conditions.  Plus, who wouldn't want to be their pet's hero?  If more dogs like Cleo are able to find homes where they can do great things for their owners, then even more dogs will have a chance at happy lives."
  --  Jackie

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