I am feeling incredibly tired tonight, but extremely satisfied and more than a little bit emotional about all the things that have been going on this weekend.
We have just completed our most successful open weekend for some considerable time. The skies were blue, the refuge was packed with people walking dogs, delivering presents and blankets, standing around in the sunshine enjoying a glass or two of mulled wine and better still, adopting or reserving dogs and cats!
At the same time we had volunteers at Jardiland and at the Christmas market in Cavanac. A huge team working in harmony all towards the same goal; to improve things for our protégés at the SPA. I cannot count the number of people who paid us compliments on the organisation and the dedication of the staff and volunteers. It was like a well-oiled machine, with people helping out where they were needed. I was incredibly proud of everyone.
What a marvellous atmosphere. Christmas cheer abounded it was not only money that was raised. Our morale took a huge boost too. I suspect I am not the only volunteer who has a huge smile on their face tonight.
So, I know you are desperate to know; who left?
Well, first to go was lovely Amadeus. I am surprised he stayed as long as he did. He is going to be a very happy dog and we will have lots of news, as he has gone to the family of one of our volunteers, Isabelle. The only other actual departure was that of lovely Yoga, but we had no fewer than four further reservations. Usually I do not list these, so as not to tempt fate. However one of them I just need to tell you about, as in many ways it illustrates so well what we have been busy doing recently.
Last weekend at la Cite we had the folder with photos of all the dogs at the refuge. A family showed a lot of interest in one of our dogs, Keops, who has been at the refuge since December 26th 2011. They promised to come and see him at the open weekend, and true to their word, they came along today. The attraction between the dog and the family was immediate and instant, and after a walk together, Keops is now officially reserved.
Had we not been at la Cite, this family may never have come to the refuge. Equally, several people at the market in Cavanac today are now aware of the wonderful dogs that we have at the SPA. It is a case of spreading the word and for this you need exactly what we have; willing hands who love animals and share a common purpose.
Ten dogs and four cats have left as the result of the open weekend alone, and the funds raised mean that, amongst other things, more kennels are on the way.
Thank you to everyone who supported us in so many ways; but especially to the wonderful SPA team. And that is what we are, a team. No better illustration exists than what we have achieved together these past weeks.
I am going to sign off, I think I have some dust in my eye!
Amadeus leaves
Team Puivert with their hands in the cookie jar!
People just enjoying the day and each others’ (and the dogs’) company