SHELBYVILLE IS giving a fresh start to local dogs with the help of New Destiny Dog Rescue, an animal rescue organization that helps reduce the population of unwanted and neglected dogs in Bedford County. They partner with local animal control companies to help place dogs in caring shelters and loving homes. Owner and Co-founder Donna Clanton said the rescue and the community shelters are “working together, and that makes all the difference.” The organization covers all expenses, which means the loving foster family’s only job is to create a safe environment for their fur baby.
Many of the organization’s dogs are from Shelbyville Animal Care and Con- trol or Bedford County Animal Control. When Destiny Dog Rescue receives the animals, they spay and neuter them to prevent the canines from developing po- tential illnesses. Clanton said, “There are other reasons to spay and neuter. It is healthier for the animals.”
The organization has a senior hospice care division known as Nelson’s Place to help better care for elderly canines. The goal of hospice is to promote the adop- tion of older dogs. The division is looking to relocate and will need your help rais- ing funds to continue caring for the senior dogs in a safe and healthy environment.
As a citizen of Bedford County, you can help give the fur friends a fresh start in a new and loving home by visiting their website or Facebook page and filling out an application. Clanton requires all fam- ilies to fill out an application because it helps families better understand which canine baby is the best fit for their home. Families have the option to foster or adopt a dog. Whether families choose to pursue foster care or adoption, the company’s goal is to help provide each dog with a loving family in a safe environment. The compa- ny does not charge adoption fees; however, families are encouraged to give a generous donation to the organization to help them continue their mission.
Destiny Dog Rescue welcomes all volunteers to play with the dogs and nur- ture them while they live in the facility. They also accept any monetary donations and dog food. Families can also shop at their indoor yard sale on their Facebook page. The organization has a “Doggy Depo,” where individuals may sign up for timeslots to take the dogs out for walks. They may also provide them with food, medicine, and any other necessities the dogs may need.
Clanton said that the community could also help the organization by spreading the word and educating the community about the importance of fostering care for animals. -GN
