Recently, ITV had to post that we were at capacity with the number of rescued dogs in our care and were placing a "hold" on all new intakes. Anyone who even slightly knows those us who had to make that decision know how incredibly hard it was. Saving dogs are what we do. It's our passion, our calling, and we take it very seriously.
Our hopes and dreams are huge. Unfortunately, there are factors that ultimately place limitations on our efforts. Operating a rescue is like a clock with many running parts. If one of those parts breaks, or the battery source is low, a clock can't tick. It's the same way at ITV.
In order to make rescue a success, of course, we need a sufficient cash flow. Unlike other agencies, ITV does not get any government funding, quarterly deposits or super high consistent donations that keep our bank balance high enough to do what we want when we want. Of course, we have loyal supporters who are kind enough to support our efforts. They keep us ticking. We are eternally grateful. Every person whose ever donated, we are so thankful...VERY THANKFUL!!
ITV has only had an operating shelter for 41/2 years, so in the rescue world, we are still the new kids on the block. Other rescue agencies have been running for decades and have had the time to build their donor list and supporters. They have endowments left to them. We are constantly planning fundraisers here at ITV. There is never a moment when we are not in some phase of planning or execution of a fundraiser. Raffles, Crafts Fairs, Carnivals, Poker Runs, Fall Festival food booth, etc, etc are continually on our agenda.
Money is always a concern, and every dollar is stretched to the limit to allow our rescues the best possible chance at a great future. With extra donations, we would be able to expand our kennel area and provide the manpower needed to care for each dog in our care. Each rescue is like a family member to every ITV provider. We want to give them more than the bare necessities. Most adoption fees rarely cover the cost incurred during a rescue's stay in our shelter or foster home.
Along with the money issues that curtail our space and efforts, our foster force is the determining factor for the number of canines we can rescue. In any given day, it is normal to turn away a dozen dogs needing rescued. We hate to say no. But without the kennel or foster space, we are very limited. We've doubled up in kennels, stacked crates and placed dogs in our bathroom just to take in and save an extra life. Recently, we had to reassess our situation, take consideration of our current rescues and those caring for them.
Our "hold" on intakes was a necessary evil. We get out of bed every morning to rescue a beating heart in a furry dog who is in need. If we don't have a comfortable and acceptable sized space open in our center, we must say no. If there are no volunteers willing to foster a dog through the vetting protocol, we must say no. We hate to say no.
Fostering is such a rewarding experience. Don't get me wrong- we have a large group of dedicated fosters who give our rescues the care and training needed until a dog is ready for adoption. Unfortunately, at this recent time, we can't find new and willing volunteers to step up and help with our cause. We know it's a big responsibility, but we urge anyone who isn't fostering for us to seriously consider hopping on board.
We cover all pre arranged vetting and provide support during the foster process. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing a hopeless stray feel loved and return the favor with their unconditional loyalty. We ALWAYS need fosters. There is a never ending stream of unfortunate puppies and dogs needing to get a second chance in life, and ITV wants to be the rescue they can count on.
ITV's rescue advocates work almost 24/7 to keep the shelter operating and our fosters provided with what is needed to be adoption ready. We are non profit. We are aren't rich. We struggle to make every dollar and to stretch every dollar we collect. A donation is tax deductible. Fostering costs your time and rewards with the heartwarming feeling that you've saved a poor soul who otherwise would have been euthanized. We want to save them all, but we can't. YOU can help us do more!
If you have never fostered, please go to ITVRescue.org and complete a foster application. Come into the center at 1417 N. Stockwell Rd, Evansville, IN during open hours and look in the eyes of our rescues who are currently living there. I'm certain one of them will steal your heart and love to ride home with you until we can find a the perfect forever home. That kennel space will open and we will be able to say yes to a phone call or email needing help.
If you don't have the housing, lifestyle or strength to let a foster go, please donate. Trust me, there is a bill, or two or ten needing paid right this moment. Any amount is appreciated. We would love for someone to come in with a huge donation check. We dream about a day when we can fall asleep easily because the financial stress is lessened for us. The dogs truly count on us and we will not let them down.
ITV is No- Kill...meaning we do not euthanize for space. We won't kill part of our animal family, one who isn't as desirable, to make an opening for a new one in need. This gives us an obstacle course that we are constantly running and trying to figure out. Any donation would be life saving to our ITV rescue dogs. Being in a foster home is a dream for all of our shelter dogs. Please help keep all the parts at ITV working, and our energy source high. You, or someone you know could be the blessing we are praying for!
UNTIL All Paws Have A Home,
Sincerely,
L.Martin, Rescue Advocate and animal lover🐾
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