Stacy Ritter
Visit Lauderdale | [email protected]
Russ Klenet
PARK&K LLC PUBLIC AFFAIRS | [email protected]
Tell us about your dog and what makes them special to you.
We have four – Frasier (12), Augie (9), Poppy (6) and Dash (4 months.). All are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and all are rescues.
How did your dogs come into your life, and how has your relationship grown over time?
Frasier was an owner surrender, and we rescued him at age 11 months. Augie, Poppy, and Dash are rescues from Cavalier Rescue of Florida (CRF). Dash is our newest family member. His mom was found wandering the streets in North Florida and was picked up and placed in a shelter where they discovered she was pregnant. She gave birth shortly thereafter to 9 puppies, of which only 3 survived. CRF took mom and babies and contacted previous adopters to foster to adopt a puppy, and we said “What the hell? What’s one more!” and now we have four. Poppy was the most traumatized and watching her grow from a scared and beaten down dog into the happy girl she is today, running and playing without fear, is the greatest joy.
What is your favorite pet charity or rescue organization and why?
Cavalier Rescue of Florida, a group of dedicated volunteers who rescue every Cavalier needing a home, from owner surrenders to puppy mill dogs. They vet every application thoroughly to ensure the dog is placed in the right home. They also provide whatever vet care is needed as the dog is fostered before being ready for adoption. Having worked with them with 3 of our 4 rescues, we know how much these dogs mean to the people at CRF and because of that, we know every dog finds that loving home they all deserve.
What has been the greatest blessing your dog has brought to your life?
The dogs bring us joy and unconditional love. Knowing they are now in a loving and secure home and watching them thrive as a result is the greatest blessing of all.
