It was a long flight for the dogs arriving from Baku, Azerbaijan but they have arrived safely in the United States. Mike and Tali picked them up at the JFK airport but not without a hitch. Of course the original plan for Mike and Tali was to transport two dogs to Ohio and then at the last minute funds were raised in Baku to help four more dogs and we committed to them. Meanwhile, back in the USA Mike and Tali had only planned for two kennels in their car and when six dogs arrived (which they were given advance notice) on the spot they rented a second vehicle to get all the dogs to Philadelphia where the dogs are being fostered until the next leg of their journey Friday night. This morning the pack awoke and had never seen grass so they enjoyed romping around in the yard, finding toys and balls and huddling together this afternoon for a nap. We are overwhelmed with the immediate response for donations to help these dogs make it to Ohio this weekend.
We did increase our previously posted fundraising goal from $300 to $450 late last night when we got word about the additional van that was needed at JFK. This morning Mike and Tali updated up with the weekend transport plan and they have opted to rent one large cargo van rather than have two vehicles and three drivers. This way the dogs could stay together and Mike and Tali can split the night time ride. They are departing Friday after dark and will arrive at our door step at 8 am this Saturday.
The cost of the van, tolls and gas are estimated to be around $600 (give or take) and any extra funds raised will go directly toward the dogs care. In addition to the time they have donated Mike and Tali are also donating some funds needed to make this rescue a success. This mission would not have been successful without the help of Mike and Tali who traveled to NYC, acted quickly to insure the safety of the dogs by getting an unexpected second vehicle, then took all of the dogs into their home for two days, fed, bathed and gave them shelter. We are grateful for their participating in this effort.
It takes a village.
This morning as the behind the scenes group exchanged dozens of emails we received a touching message from Lidia in Baku:
It gets lonely sometimes here with only two of us running around , so it feels really good to see compassionate team work , and group support. Actually for the first time ever we had two more ladies coming to the airport to help us. I hope it’s not the last, it felt good. Its just wonderful what you did for the pups , they will have a life, what a gift.
From all of us at Secondhand Mutts, we thank you all for your social media shares and donations. And for believing in this project we didn’t know could be pulled off in record time. The dogs are home.
To make a donation please click on our latest YouCaring.com link or mail a check to Secondhand Mutts, 2603 Scranton Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44113