RIDGE’S RESCUE GIVES LOCAL DOGS A SECOND CHANCE AT HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

BY HELENA SHUMWAY

National Dog Rescue Day is Saturday, May 20th, and I can think of no better way to celebrate than by highlighting an incredible foster-based organization here in Rochester that caters to our favorite canine companions – Ridge’s Rescue, Inc.

KelleyMurthabeganvolunteeringatRochesterAnimalServicesseveral years ago, and she hasn’t stopped since. As an avid animal lover and a big proponent of helping wherever possible, Kelley decided to create Ridge’s Rescue in 2022, a volunteer-run foster-based organization for dogs in the Rochester area.

As a fully volunteer-operated organization, Ridge’s Rescue comprises individuals working together to o er dogs a safe, secure, and loving home. Whether a dog is facing medical needs or behavioral concerns, Ridge’s Rescue works to ensure that each dog has a chance at the life they deserve.

While many of us think of animal rescues as a shelter-based system, Ridge’s Rescue has ipped the script. “ ere’s no brick and mortar, no shelter,” shares Kelley. Each dog is placed in a comfortable and safe home environment while they are being fostered. Most of Ridge’s Rescue fosters come from Rochester Animal Services, and as Kelley shares, each dog has their own medical and/or behavioral needs.

Some dogs have greater needs than others, but Kelley is committed to ensuring each four-legged sweetheart receives the care they need. Because Ridge’s Rescue is completely volunteer-run and operated, all medical costs are covered by the organization itself, volunteers,

Ecosts around $40 per month, dogs can be permanently shielded from the cruel disease.

Ridge’s Rescue and their fosters o en face many hardships that can be devastating for animal lovers out there. However, the joy of watching a dog ourish during their foster placement certainly comes out on top! We o en see before/a er photos when someone gets a haircut or a kitchen gets a full remodel, but seeing photos of a dog upon arriving to Ridge’s Rescue versus when they leave – there are no words for that transformation!

Ridge’s Rescue does not simply rehome a dog. ey allow a dog to be reborn into the life they were meant to have: A life full of belly scratches, cuddles, treats, and ultimately, kindness.

Currently, Ridge’s Rescue has three dogs available for adoption and ten dogs in foster care. Are you interested in getting involved with this amazing organization? ere are several ways to o er your support.

If you would like to be a volunteer, you can help with fundraising events! Ridge’s Rescue regularly hosts events to spread the word about the great work they do and to secure funding to continue their mission. e next event will be held on National Dog Rescue Day – Saturday, May 20th – at Marshall Street Bar & Grill. Entitled “Cornhole for Canines,” the event features a cornhole tournament, ra es, and more!

If you are interested in being considered as a foster home placement, Kelley encourages everyone to reach out through social media (Facebook, Instagram) or via email at hello@ridgesrescue.com. Or consider making a donation or buying items o Ridge’s Rescues’ Amazon wishlist.

Medical costs can escalate quickly, particularly if a dog faces an acute medical emergency that requires surgery or an extended course of medications for treatment. One acute medical emergency that Kelley would like to highlight is heartworm, a deadly but preventable disease. In Rochester, she describes heartworm as an epidemic a ecting dogs coming in and out of the shelter or foster care system.

While heartworm is extremely serious and is fatal for dogs if le untreated, it is completely preventable. “I cannot push enough about heartworm preventatives,” says Kelley. Once a dog gets to the point of heartworm diagnosis, it is a very serious, painful situation sure to cost thousands of dollars for treatment. However, with a medication that

Lastly, spread the word! Whether you decide to follow Ridge’s Rescue on social media or share their mission with your friends and family, every bit of support counts and helps this incredible organization continue their life-saving work for dogs here in the Rochester community.

STRANGE BUT TRUE By Lucie Winborne

* The majority of people will tilt their head to the right when they kiss.

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