Part of what I do with Southpaw Rescue is “pull” dogs from animal services, and transport them to their new homes or boarding facilities. Pulling, for those unfamiliar with the term, basically means to go through the logistical process of adopting the dogs in your name, then turn them over to new adopters or rescuers. This is a time-consuming and often frustrating process that involves waiting for hours at the ever-inefficient animal services, dealing with unexpected obstacles and fighting traffic. However, it’s worth every ounce of frustration when you get to walk those doggies out of hell and into new-found freedom!
Yesterday, I went to animal services to pick up three dogs for Southpaw, and check up on the status of a couple other pups. I left with three, but only two of those originally intended. I picked up Gaby – a sweet, playful lab mix, and Sable – a darling terrier mix whose adopter stood her up. While I was there, I also freed Little Mommy, a two pound Yorkie with half her jaw missing who looked like she’d been living in a garbage can. Freeing this poor soul took a village, including Jennifer from United Yorkie Rescue, Allen Babcock Rescue, the rescue coordinator at MDAS and other concerned citizens. Little Mommy is now resting comfortably with her foster mom, Alice.
Little Mommy
Gaby
Sable
While I was there, I was also shown a darling pit bill puppy with a mangled eye, who I desperately wanted to take, but couldn’t. 
Little Benny, a rat terrier with a skin condition, is being picked up by Southpaw tomorrow.
Benny
So, it was just another day in the life of a rescuer. A successful one, as any day is when we’re able to save lives. But I still felt heartbroken as I drove the lucky pups to their new homes. Heartbroken for the pit bull puppy I couldn’t save. Heartbroken because this screwed-up system forces rescuers to choose who gets to live or die. Heartbroken because each of these precious animals deserves a happy home. And the saddest part is, it’s all within reach, we just have to change the leadership and instill progressive programs in these antiquated shelters. All it takes is the No Kill Equation.
But until that happens in Miami Dade, local rescuers live to fight another day for the lives of innocent animals the world discards.
PS – The good news. I got a call from an animal services staff member later in the day about another matter, and he said they may have found a rescue for the pit bull puppy. Godspeed little one!
