Beta Theta-ESA, a local service organization, has provided support to the community for nearly 45 years. They have provided many charitable organizations in need, with loving assistance and have awarded scholarships to students to prepare for our future.
One of the organizations that Beta Theta supports is Ruff Times Rescue (RTR). Their need is great. Money raised is used for vetting, food, flea meds/heartworm meds, bedding, toys, leashes, collars, grooming…All the stuff necessary to take care of a pet.
Melanie Helton, founder of RTR, says RTR was named in honor of her beautiful 14-year-old Basset Hound “Ruffy Girl”. “She was only mine for 4 of those 14 years but she left me with a lifetime of happy memories”, say Helton.
Helton says RTR volunteers work with families in danger of losing their pets due to financial hardships, foreclosure, sickness or other family issues. The goal is to assist the family in their efforts to keep their pets. Their community outreach program known as the Keep Your Pet Project (KYPP) offers financial assistance or other forms of support to qualifying households, and in the event a pet is displaced, they work to find them a new loving home. “We strive to keep animals out of animal control and county facilities, therefore not only saving the life of the animal but also saving the taxpayers money. Our niche’ in animal rescue provides a life preserver to animals before they reach the system, says Helton.
Helton add, “Foster homes are always needed. We provide all food, vet care, flea and heartworm meds, you just supply the home and the love!”
To learn more, visit RUFF TIMES RESCUE.
Pictured: RTR Founder Melanie Helton, Hank and Layla, and Beta Theta Member and RTR Volunteer Donna Graham.
