The student council at Pinecrest Lakes Academy wanted to plan an event that would help the community. After discussion, it was decided that they would have a pet supply drive, said council past president Ella Delaney. The project began under the leadership of president Maddie Loftis, vice president Emily Manning and, of course, the guidance of Miss Erica Lott (teacher).
Each grade level (K-7) was asked to participate and, as an extra bonus, the grade level donating the most pet food and supplies would be awarded an ice cream social. The Pre K and Kindergarten classes won with 7th grade close behind!
Once the supplies were collected, Linda from HoundHaven arrived at the school to collect the donations. She was happily surprised at how many things the students had collected. Linda was especially happy when she saw a large bag of dog food which she commented was the favorite dish of one of her doggie guests.
Houndhaven rescues large dogs and puppies from euthanasia at kill shelters. Volunteers care for the dogs until they can be placed in loving homes or with another rescue group. Why only large dogs? Linda explained that many people looking to adopt a pet prefer small dogs.
Houndhaven, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit charity located in Minneola, FL. Founded in 2000, Houndhaven has rescued more than 1,400 dogs and puppies and provided them with excellent vet care and placed them in loving homes. The facility is strictly a no-kill organization and is operated entirely by donations and volunteer help.
The shelter hosts up to 18-20 dogs at one time. Each dog has its own clean kennel, an exercise play area and a “spa day” to maintain grooming hygiene.
Linda says that Houndhaven is not a typical shelter. Volunteers describe it as being a happy place and the dogs at Houndhaven, all appear happy and well cared for. Dogs with medical problems such as cataracts, diabetes, skin and ear infections, eating disorders aren’t turned away but given love, affection and medical treatment.
Volunteer duties include walking, feeding and medicating the dogs, as well as cleaning kennels, picking up play yards, doing dishes and laundry and other things necessary to provide the dogs with excellent care. Linda explains that the shelter is always looking for volunteers, 18 years and older, who can handle large dogs and have no medical conditions such as pregnancy and serious back problems. Volunteer opportunities also exist at adoption events most weekends. The dogs are taken to Petsmart and Petco from 12-3:30 pm on most Saturdays so that they can meet prospective adopters.
Thanks to Scout Troop 996, there is a quiet place where a dog and prospective best friend can met, play, and get to know each other.
Thank you Pinecrest Lakes Academy for Caring and Sharing.
Linda shows off some of the many dogs awaiting adoption at Houndhaven. Donate, Volunteer, Adopt. Learn more about Houndhaven and the current dogs looking for forever homes at www.houndhaven.org.
