SaddleBrooke Pet Rescue Network – November 2023

Roberta and Ray Wisniewski with Vino

The Happiest of Tails

Romayne Trudo

The wonder of animals is their resilience. A two-year-old border collie mix was found by Oracle Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation (OARR) on a ranch north of San Manuel. It was estimated that he had been hit by a car weeks earlier. Due to the seriousness of his injury, his right rear leg needed to be amputated, but he was quickly nursed back to health by OARR volunteers. It seems that nothing could dampen this beautiful boy’s spirit.

We would like you to meet Vino, one of the sweetest, most joyful pups on the planet. His luck was about to change. With the help of SaddleBrooke Pet Rescue Network volunteers, Vino was introduced to Roberta and Ray Wisniewski, longtime SaddleBrooke residents. They did not see his new tripod status as a deterrent but, instead, embraced Vino’s sweet nature and officially adopted him on Sept. 4. He now enjoys his daily walks with his people, greeting neighbors and dogs with joyful exuberance. Thank you, Roberta and Ray, for the happy ending that is now Vino’s perfect life.

A Purrfect Tail

SaddleBrooke Pet Rescue Network was contacted by a resident asking for help rehoming her kitty. Of course, this was a difficult decision for her, but sometimes it’s absolutely necessary. A volunteer met with the owner to obtain pertinent details about Buzz and to meet him in person. This 5-year-old orange marmalade male was so loving and affectionate, that it was difficult for the volunteer not to adopt him for herself. A SaddleBrooke couple was waiting in the wings to adopt this precious boy. He was quickly adopted by Diana and Bobby Carbone and now lives the purrfect life he deserves. As always, thank you, SaddleBrooke, for being such a pet-loving community.

SaddleBrooke Board of Directors (left to right): Carol Merlini, treasurer; Lisa John, events; Diane Korn, membership and communications; and Romayne Trudo, lost, found, and rehoming

Pawsitively Rewarding

Carol Merlini

On Sept. 2, as we approached the building that houses our newest rescue partner, PAWSitively Cats, the first impression was not very favorable. The exterior, while well maintained, was not very impressive, and the only sign was a small piece of paper affixed to the door with the logo on it. Four of the directors of the SaddleBrooke Pet Rescue Network wanted to see how this newest partner-operated and maybe get firsthand knowledge of their needs. “As we were shown around the PAWSitively Cats shelter, I was more and more impressed with the level of care and dedication that the director and volunteers had for these unfortunate ‘throw-away’ animals. That care went above and beyond with special dietary preparations, medical care, and loving caresses and sweet talk for each animal. It was quite touching,” observed Director Lisa John.

The interior of the building was clean and configured so that the cats can roam free, with the exception of those needing special dietary control or medical treatments. There were many activities for enrichment. Approximately 30 volunteers alternate days to clean and socialize the kitties. Director Diane Korn commented, “They had detailed knowledge of the different cats’ behaviors and special needs, along with their adoptability status.” Director Romayne Trudo observed, “They knew each and every cat intimately and were aware of their strengths and quirks.” Diane also noted, “It was very reassuring to know the staff and volunteers knew which cats were social, which preferred to be in a one-cat household, and which were more suitable for sponsorship rather than adoption.” This makes placing them in an appropriate home more efficient and permanent.

As we explored the facility, we noticed cat doors were set into exterior doors so that the felines could enjoy fresh air and sunshine on the “catios.” There were very cute automatic water dishes decorating various areas of the rooms. Plenty of cat houses, scratch poles, and platforms to climb on kept the cats engaged and occupied.

The SBPRN directors left the facility encouraged by the efforts and work being done for these kitties and are glad to include them in our group of rescues and shelters supported.

Monthly Pet Donation Drop-Off Program

Marcy Vernon

Our various pet charities are always in need and are always thankful for your donations. Please consider dropping off any of the items listed below. Cash donations are also accepted and appreciated. The drop-off location is at the SaddleBrooke One bocce ball courts. It is the first Friday of every month.

We are now into our fall/winter hours of 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Caution! Please drive up slowly and watch for volunteers at the cones!

We always need pet food.

We accept most pet-related items that are in clean and good condition, such as towels and sheets, both flat and fitted.

Pet crates of any size are accepted. Please break them down before donating.

We cannot accept any Poly-fil items, such as pillows, as they present a choking hazard. Nor can we accept any rugs with rubber backing.

Any items accepted are at the discretion of the volunteers.

Please do not leave items unattended.

Millions for Tucson Raffle

SaddleBrooke Pet Rescue Network continues to offer tickets for the Jim Click Millions for Tucson Raffle drive supporting 501(c)(3) organizations based in Southern Arizona. Participating 501(c)(3) organizations that sell these tickets keep all proceeds raised.

The first prize is a 2023 Ford Bronco Raptor. The second prize is two roundtrip tickets to anywhere in the world (some exceptions apply). The third prize is $5,000 cash. The drawing will take place on Dec. 14, and you need not be present to win. Visit millionsfortucson.org/the-details for the details and rules flyer.

To get your tickets, you may contact Carol Merlini at 520-825-0563 or Romayne Trudo at 520-834-5718. Tickets are $25 each. Tickets will be available until Dec. 8.

Help us support the rescue groups and shelters in our area. The pets don’t know that they are not supposed to be hungry, hurt, or mistreated. They need us to help them go on to fulfilling and healthy lives.

Until there are none—save one. Millions for Tucson Raffle

SaddleBrooke Pet Rescue Network continues to offer tickets for the Jim Click Millions for Tucson Raffle drive supporting 501(c)(3) organizations based in Southern Arizona. Participating 501(c)(3) organizations that sell these tickets keep all proceeds raised.

The first prize is a 2023 Ford Bronco Raptor. The second prize is two roundtrip tickets to anywhere in the world (some exceptions apply). The third prize is $5,000 cash. The drawing will take place on Dec. 14, and you need not be present to win. Visit millionsfortucson.org/the-details for the details and rules flyer.

To get your tickets, you may contact Carol Merlini at 520-825-0563 or Romayne Trudo at 520-834-5718. Tickets are $25 each. Tickets will be available until Dec. 8.

Help us support the rescue groups and shelters in our area. The pets don’t know that they are not supposed to be hungry, hurt, or mistreated. They need us to help them go on to fulfilling and healthy lives.

Until there are none—save one.