From Tom
Hi all,
I got my first Dachshund in late August 2009. I really didn't want one. I had the list of qualities I needed and refused to have in a dog and after over 450 ads, one silly ad somehow stood out. It was the only ad that actually met the requirements. And as "Willy the wiener needs a home," I hesitantly called. The lady on the phone thought I was perfect for Willy. She brought him to meet me and offered him at a discount price. After meeting him twice, I took Willy home. That day changed my life. As some of you know, Willy is my soul dog. He is so many things I can't even express. We have spent the last seven and a half years together, with stories piled high and memories for a lifetime. |
A year later my great grandfather thought it would be a good idea to get Willy a pal. Walking into this idea naive and quite unaware of the quirks of the Dachshund, we picked up my second. Scooter. We won't get into details, but to put it gently, it was karma for having it so easy with Willy. Scooter came from California, and I spent hours of every day chasing him around, pulling my hair out, and trying to house train him. I had gotten into something strange and the Dachshund lifestyle swallowed me whole...
After getting Scooter civil, I had an urge to give back. I privately brought two others in, trained and re-socialized them, and then thanks to the assistance of a few people, was able to adopt them out. It felt good. I very quickly realized that I wanted to help out more in some way. After a move back to Alberta, I filled out an application with Alberta Dachshund Rescue. Not long later my first foster came and it's been a treat to work with ADR ever since.
Sheri has been the president of Alberta Dachshund Rescue for many years and made a huge difference for many families and many dachshunds. Sheri, I thank you for asking me to try to fill these shoes you've left. I can never replace you, but can only hope to maintain and continue to give others what you have. I think it's safe to say you've touched the hearts of literally thousands of people in your years with ADR. Thank you for helping out the hundreds of dogs that you have so gracefully, and for the largest compliment I've ever gotten.
Willy, Scooter, and now ADR foster fail, Beaner, and I are eager to jump in and give it our best to continue to offer our time, knowledge, and love to more doxies in need. Sheri, you have left a huge pair of shoes to fill, and thank goodness you left Marilyn around for support! She really was your right hand, and there is no way to do this without help. Another thank you to all of our amazing volunteers, for all your work and encouragement for me to take on this challenging but rewarding role. Without all your help, it's impossible.
Here's to helping many more doxies in need...
Tom Edwards, Willy, Scooter, and Beaner
Tom Edwards
President
Alberta Dachshund Rescue (ADR)