Three years ago, I was just a girl with a dream to make a difference in the lives of animals, no matter how small. I naively thought that the animal rescue world was one big family and that I would be welcomed with open arms. However, I soon found out that this wasn't always the case.
Despite facing challenges, I opened my own animal rescue organization in 2020 and initially had great success finding homes for needy pets. Then in May of 2022, I found 19 abandoned puppies in the woods and required assistance with their extensive medical care and treatment.
Against my better judgment, we initiated the 501c3 process and became an integral part of the public eye. This marked the beginning of the end of my passion for this lifestyle, because let's face it, that's what it is. If you don't have a partner, staff or dependable volunteers, it consumes your entire life.
I got into animal rescue because it brought me joy and gave me a sense of purpose. However, I must admit that over time, my passion for it has dwindled. Despite this fact, if all I had to do was save dogs from shelters or other dangerous situations, then I would still be content with continuing in the field as helping those animals brings both them and myself happiness knowing their lives have been saved.
For nearly two years, I have been involved in the public rescue world and it has taken a toll on me. I used to be so enthusiastic about being part of the public rescue community but now all that remains is exhaustion thanks to prolonged exposure to people spewing relentless acrimony & lies. Despite overcoming false accusations and hatred time and again, my passion is waning due to constant negativity.
I am exhausted from battling to keep the rescue above water, struggling to preserve our most critical intakes alive, striving to feed and care for the dogs, and fighting to pay the bills on time. It seems like an uphill battle every day, with constant accusations and scrutiny from all sides. Why must it be so difficult to save innocent lives without facing undue criticism?
I am exhausted from constantly having to demonstrate my innocence or clarify myself, only to be met with accusations of creating more drama or fueling the situation. Despite being told to ignore it, the harm continues to escalate as they spread false information and people who have witnessed our dog rescue efforts believe their every word.
We've successfully passed numerous rigorous inspections and welfare checks, demonstrating our commitment to providing the highest quality care for our canine friends. Despite being told to give up on some dogs, we persevered and managed to save them from dire situations. Additionally, we have taken in dogs that other organizations deemed unadoptable and provided them with a second chance at life. We've accomplished so much in what seems like no time at all, but for those who tend to focus on the negative, it's never enough or good enough.
For years now since becoming involved with animal rescues full time; it feels like everything revolves solely around what other people want or need instead ever stopping long enough to ask how I'm holding up here myself; emotionally, mentally and physically. I'm constantly sacrificng pieces of myself for them!! The latest? Being told once again despite never giving less than 100% effort at any given time, it still isn't good enough... So yeah I'm throwing in the towel because there IS NO PEACE FOR RESCUERS WHO DO ALL THE GRUNTWORK BEHIND SCENES.
It saddens me to see such a strong reaction towards someone who genuinely cares about animals like myself. It never ceases to amaze me how quickly some individuals will jump at the chance to spew bitter criticism and anger towards those who are brave enough to take action and help others, particularly when it comes to improving the lives of animals. The level of resentment towards these sorts of trailblazers can reach astronomical heights for no discernible reason other than their willingness to do good deeds without being asked or waiting for permission from anyone else.
I made a commitment to release any emotional baggage weighing down my heart coming into 2024, never did I imagine that operating the animal rescue would actually be an exhaustible burden taking its toll every day. Upon reflecting on the most stressful and tiring aspect of my life as I woke up this morning, I realized it was running the rescue and it isn't because of the dogs.
My decision to close down the rescue has been made after careful consideration, as it was not an easy choice at all! We are committed to finding loving forever homes for each of the pups who call this place "home" for now because they deserve nothing less than happiness!, and/or transferring them into trustworthy rescue organizations.
Our sanctuary dogs will stay with us indefinitely, receiving unparalleled care and compassion. They will only be transferred to other sanctuaries that can guarantee them the same level of support for their entire lives.
What matters most - no matter where these cuties end up living when all is said & done? That their futures look bright thanks to YOU kind strangers who took time out from your busy day to adopt, foster, transport and donate funds towards helping make sure every animal gets everything he or she needs during their journey through life. We couldn't have pulled off miracles like saving countless lives without your generous support.
We are confidently entrusting all our resources and assets to an exceptional rescue once we conclude operations. They possess remarkable values such as understanding, compassion while leading by example through kindness - qualities that are rarely displayed nowadays. Their values and beliefs align with mine, which is why I feel like they could use the extra support that I know they aren't given as a whole from the rescue community. We believe in their ability to manage the resources with care and dedication while continuing to save lives of the unwanted.
In reality, the closure of animal rescues is caused by humans, not animals. While some individuals may celebrate the mistaken assumption that they have won, the truth is that many animals have lost a secure place to recuperate while waiting for their families. This exemplifies how human selfishness and cruelty leads to the shutdown of rescue facilities meant to provide refuge to vulnerable creatures.
This marks the end of an era for the animal rescue that I poured my heart and soul into, providing a safe haven for hundreds of animals in their darkest times and bringing joy to countless families through companionship.
The rescue was established as a tribute to my beloved heart dog, and it seems fitting that its closure should come after introducing me to her successor. Perhaps this is her way of telling me that it's okay to turn the page and move on to new chapters in life.
Our warmest regards to everyone still engaged in the battle and getting ready for the impending increase of unwanted hounds and senior dogs after the New Years celebrations. Our apologies for not being there manning the front lines with you all.
RAVE Rural Animal Volunteer Effort
Holly Hill, South Carolina
Copyright © 2022 RAVE Rural Animal Volunteer Effort - All Rights Reserved.
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