PHOENIX (AZFamily) — If you’re a part of the dog rescue community in the Valley, then you probably know of Kathy. She runs the Arizona Shih Tzu & Small Breed Rescue, taking in scores of unwanted dogs every year.
Kathy works tirelessly, trying to find new homes for them. She feeds them, cares for them and even pays their vet bills, sometimes with money out of her own pocket.
That’s why Phyllis, a fellow Shih Tzu owner, asked Colton Shone and Arizona’s Family Surprise Squad to visit her.
When the crew showed up at her north Phoenix home, Kathy greeted them, holding a small dog named Tequila. She had been told that Phyllis was going to drop off some dog beds for her. Colton explained that the Surprise Squad was here instead and asked her why she dedicates her life to saving dogs.
“I think I was a born rescuer,” Kathy said. “I’ve been rescuing animals all my life.”
Kathy said recently she came home from a night out playing trivia, and as she pulled into her driveway, she got a call about a starving poodle. She didn’t even get out of her car and instead drove to pick the pooch up.
Kathy says her organization specializes in taking in dogs with medical needs because it’s one of the more expensive things that needs to be done, and many rescues can’t afford to do it.
Colton asked her how many dogs she’s rescued over the years. Kathy said she brings in about 600 a year. A volunteer named Cassie, who was with Kathy, said recently that Kathy took in three dogs with broken legs.
“A lot of these dogs don’t come in very socialized, and they need a lot of love and attention,” Kathy said. “I do this for no pay. I do not take a salary. I’m fortunate that I don’t have to take a salary, and we’re all volunteer based. It is expensive. Just our vet bills alone are about $5,000 a month.”
Colton handed Kathy an envelope and asked her to open it.
“This is brought to you by your Valley Toyota Dealer,” he said as she pulled out a certificate saying she was awarded $5,000.
“This is amazing,” Kathy smiled. “Everything helps, and we are always in need of plenty of help. Wow.”
If you would like to volunteer, donate, or find out more about Kathy’s rescue group, click/tap this link.
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