In 2011, during a six-week work furlough, Tracy and Scott embarked on a transformative journey that would ultimately save the lives of countless dogs. Driven by their passion for animal welfare, they founded Tracy’s Dogs, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing dogs from high-kill shelters and ensuring they find loving, permanent homes. This heartfelt mission has since become their full-time endeavor, as they tirelessly work to save dogs from euthanasia and provide them with the care and attention they need to thrive in their new families.
Tracy and Scott’s days are spent on the road, tirelessly driving to various high-kill shelters across Texas. Their goal is simple yet profound: to rescue dogs that would otherwise face euthanasia. The rescued dogs are then transported to the Tracy’s Dogs facility located in San Antonio, Texas. Upon arrival, these dogs receive comprehensive medical attention, including vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and any other necessary treatments to prepare them for adoption.
The journey to a new home for these dogs involves meticulous preparation. Tracy’s Dogs ensures that each rescued dog is not only healthy but also well-socialized and ready for adoption. The organization works diligently to match each dog with a suitable forever home. This involves a thorough pre-adoption process where potential adopters are screened to ensure they are the right fit for the dog.
To facilitate the adoption process, Tracy’s Dogs partners with organizations like PetSmart. These partnerships provide a meeting space where new dog owners can meet their pre-adopted dogs. This collaboration ensures a smooth transition for both the dogs and their new families.
Every month, Scott loads the dogs into a 32-foot trailer and embarks on a cross-country journey to unite these dogs with their new families. These adoption events take place in PetSmart parking lots across several states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Washington D.C., and even Florida. These events are meticulously planned to ensure that each dog meets their new family in a safe and welcoming environment.
Liz Grabarits, the Operations Director at Tracy’s Dogs, highlights the far-reaching impact of each adoption. “When people adopt a dog from us, they’re not just saving one life; they’re saving three,” she explains. This statement underscores the ripple effect of each adoption: as one dog finds a new home, it creates space for another dog to be rescued from a kill shelter, ultimately freeing up space in the shelter for yet another dog in need.
The San Antonio facility has the capacity to house about 100 dogs at a time. When 60 dogs leave for their new homes, it opens up space for 60 more dogs to be rescued. This constant cycle of rescue and adoption maximizes the number of lives saved.
Adoption events are not just about finding homes for dogs; they are celebratory occasions filled with joy and emotion. The staff at Tracy’s Dogs witness the beautiful moments when dogs are welcomed into loving homes. To commemorate these special occasions, Tracy’s Dogs often holds a “Gotcha Day” ceremony. During this ceremony, all the families who are adopting dogs gather in front of the trailer. The puppies being adopted are formally announced and handed over to their new owners, amidst claps and cheers. These ceremonies are heartwarming and highlight the deep bond between the dogs and their new families.
The success stories of Tracy’s Dogs are numerous and heartwarming. One such story is that of Megan Peters and Brian Roseto. The couple had been searching for a pet online without success until they discovered Tracy’s Dogs. They instantly fell in love with a dog named Benny, whom they later renamed Finn. Meeting Finn for the first time in a PetSmart parking lot was a moment filled with emotion and joy. Roseto beamed with happiness at the sight of his new companion, and that day, over 60 families experienced similar joy as they welcomed their new furry friends into their homes.
The incredible work of Tracy’s Dogs has not gone unnoticed. The organization receives between five and 30 adoption applications per dog, reflecting the high demand for their rescued dogs and the widespread recognition of their efforts. This high level of interest ensures that each dog finds a loving home where they will be cherished and cared for.
As Tracy’s Dogs continues its mission, the future looks bright. Tracy and Scott remain dedicated to saving as many dogs as possible from euthanasia. Their tireless efforts, combined with the support of partners and the community, ensure that countless dogs will find the loving homes they deserve.
Tracy’s Dogs is more than just a rescue organization; it is a lifeline for dogs facing euthanasia. Through their dedication, compassion, and innovative approach, Tracy and Scott have created a lasting impact on the lives of dogs and the families who adopt them. Their story is a testament to the power of love and the difference that determined individuals can make in the world.
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