Newton County Animal Shelter

P.O. Box 720 Jasper, AR 72641

870-446-6227

THOUGHTS ON………Fostering

By Jeff Middleton

     Have you ever wanted to do something that really makes a difference? How about something that makes a difference between life and death? Would you like to do something special that you cannot possibly be paid back for by those that are helped?

     If you answered “yes” to the above questions, then maybe you should consider fostering animals. It is hard to put into words the joy and personal satisfaction that comes with saving the lives of and providing a temporary, loving home to these special animals.

     Since there is not yet a physical shelter in Newton County, one of the ways that homeless animals can be helped is through special people that are willing to foster.

     It’s not for everybody. Currently there is no money earmarked to pay expenses, although some breed rescues do help with expenses. It’s not about the money. It’s about knowing that you saved a life, that you truly made a difference. It’s about a loving touch, a soothing voice, a full food bowl, a warm bed, a caring heart. If you can offer those things, you can do this.

     Nick was terribly abused and was so frightened that when he saw people all he could do was wet himself. Three months of kindness and love turned him into a playful, loving pup. Now he lives with Jerry in Nashville and he is the most loved, most spoiled dog in Tennessee!! Jerry, (who is single and lost a beloved dog, ) and Nick have turned each other’s lives around. Nick sleeps right beside Jerry every night.

     Shiloh was kept in a cage for 6 years and slowly went blind. He was finally freed, and after 5 months with a loving family and friendly dogs, he became a beautiful, happy dog. Now he lives with Maria and Don in Tampa, Florida, and sleeps right beside them every night. Once a week he goes down the street to the Cold Stone Creamery for vanilla ice cream!!

     There are thousands of other stories like these. You could become the next one. If you think you would be interested, or would like to know more, please email me at jlamiddleton3@hotmail.com Please be aware that potential foster families require a home visit and foster application to protect the people and the animals.

     Would you like to make a difference.?

To all Animal Lovers: Happy New Year!! As 2007 came to a close, I hope that each of you, like I did, were able to find may things to be thankful for. I am thankful for my human family, to be sure, but also for my four legged family--they bring such joy to our lives. My wife Linda and I are also thankful that we were able to rescue, foster, and place a number of animals in 2007--animals that otherwise would not have survived.

But sadly, each of them is a drop in the bucket to the numbers of homeless, neglected and abused animals nationwide, and in Newton County. So many never get the chance to experience that love that I know each of you gives and receives from your animal friends.

The NCAS did its part by holding 2 very successful spay/neuter clinics. When you do the math, you realize very quickly that these 2 clinics here in Newton County prevented potentially thousands of dogs and cats being born that might otherwise end up homeless, abused, and dead. We reached out in a number of ways to educate all ages of people on how to care for their pets. In 2007, with the help of some dedicated volunteers, we launched our new website at www.newtoncountyanimalshelter.com. Through it, through our “hotline” and through our board at Bob’s Market, lost and found animals were posted and vital information shared.

Our most pressing need, and our biggest goal, of course, is to find land on which to build a shelter. Once we have land, we can apply for grants to assist in putting up or renovating a building. Please keep your eyes and ears open to any possibilities. There are those that say we are not a true animal shelter since we don’t have a building. They say we will never get a building. For the animals’ sakes, let’s prove them wrong!

In the meantime, maybe some of you out there would find it in your hearts to open your homes and foster a homeless dog or cat now and then. If you can’t, consider donating your time or money or both to help us help the animals.

No, we will never be able to help them all, but as in the “starfish” story, we CAN make a difference to the ones that we help. We’d love to hear from you!

Thanks, and God bless you,

Jeff Middleton, NCAS

Proverbs 12:10 "A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal."

Rescue Me
Author Unknown

Rescue me not only with your hands but with your heart as well.
I will respond to you.

Rescue me not out of pity but out of love.
I will love you back.

Rescue me not with self-righteousness but with compassion.
I will learn what you teach.

Rescue me not because of my past but because of my future.
I will relax and enjoy.

Rescue me not simply to save me but to give me a new life.
I will appreciate your gift.

Rescue me not with a firm hand but with tolerance and patience.
I will please you.

Rescue me not only because of who I am but who I'm to become.
I will grow and mature.

Rescue me not to revere yourself to others but because you want me.
I will never let you down.

Rescue me not with a hidden agenda but with a desire to teach me to trust.
I will be loyal and true.

Rescue me not to be chained or to fight but to be your companion.
I will stand by your side.

Rescue me not to replace one you've lost but to soothe your spirit.
I will cherish you.