Thanks be to doG we were able to help.

A few days back, Smokey Mountain Saint Bernard Rescue got a call from a shelter -- a pregnant SB had been owner-surrendered -- could SMSBR take her?

Of course they could. They never turn away a dog if they can help it.

They went to the shelter. THis sweetie was in an outside run living on concrete, no dog house. VERY pregnant. VERY.

But the new momma was going to need medical care. And the county shelter had a $100 pull fee unless the rescue has 501(c)3 status, which SMSBR doesn't have.

Enter ARI. I got the call and after talking it over with SMSBR, we decided to accept this gorgeous petite (125lbs!) girl as an ARI teaming project. We provide the 501(c)3 coverage and some case supervision, as well as help fundraising, and the group gets to spend that money on medical care.

Of course, she's had no vet care that we know of. She was examined last week and is carrying 12-14 puppies. In the vet's opinion, she's around six years old and has born lots of litters. Lots.

Well, no more. She will never have to worry about medical care, warm blankies or food again. She is getting used to being a house dog. She is finally starting to seek out human attention instead of cowering. At 125 pounds, probably 22-25 pounds of that is PUPPIES. She is a very small Saint and is underweight even for a small one. After the puppies are weaned, she'll probably be available, unless her foster family decides to keep her!

She's due any day. I'll keep you posted.

With your help, ARI is able to be there for groups like SMSBR, to help them do the frontline rescue work. Thank you.