Feb 2004 Sanctuary Update

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February 2004 - Adoption Center Opens Its Doors!

We often refer to our wonderful facility in Elverta as the Sanctuary, for it is a place where Goldens can transition from their former lives. Many have left happy homes due to circumstances beyond their control and need a bit of TLC to soothe their jangled nerves after being abruptly uprooted. For some, the Sanctuary is an escape from horrific neglect and abuse. They receive huge doses of human kindness to help restore their faith in the human race. Others have arrived from animal shelters throughout California and we are continually amazed that someone would abandon these beautiful creatures. On occasion, we have heard them callously referred to as pound dogs, but that is a statement borne of total ignorance. In 99% of the cases, it is not the dog’s fault that they were discarded. The pound dogs usually arrive at the Sanctuary in a bewildered state, not quite knowing what to expect. They learn quickly that the Sanctuary is a safe haven from those who could cause them harm.

Homeward Bound volunteer with Maddie and her new family

Homeward Bound volunteer with Maddie and her new family

However, our facility is also a bustling adoption center. On weekends, individuals and families wanting to add a Golden to their household can come to meet these wonderful creatures in person. We feel the environment at the Adoption Center is far more suitable for selecting such an important addition to the family. There are six separate exercise areas, one of which encompasses approximately 1 1/2 acres. There is plenty of room to run and play with the Goldens and to test their retrieving skills. Many of our prospective adopters already own a dog and are looking for a second dog as a companion. The Adoption Center is the perfect place to test compatibility.

Returning visitors to the Sanctuary/Adoption Center have marveled at the progress that has taken place over the last two years as the property has been developed. When we first arrived on the property, there was a house and large metal barn with a dirt floor. The barn was filled with rusting machinery and other assorted junk. There was not one fencepost on the 8-acre property. Fast forward to two years later and look at us now! The barn has a concrete floor and the interior walls and ceiling have been insulated. A fully enclosed kennel building was constructed inside the barn. The kennel building is totally insulated and has its own brand new heating and air conditioning system. The electrical system was completely renovated by a licensed electrician and the plumbing inside the barn was retrofitted to accommodate laundry facilities and a bathing area for the Goldens.

Mike with goldens

During the past year, literally hundreds of fence posts have been installed and thousands of feet of “no-climb” horse fencing have been stretched to enclose each of the six exercise areas. We also installed four perimeter gates to provide security for our canine guests. We have planted hundreds of shrubs and at least forty trees, including trees lining the driveway leading into the property. The majority of the greenery has been generously donated by Matsuda’s nursery.

At least three acres at the rear of the property still have not been developed. On the drawing boards is a fairly large swimming pond for the Goldens once the rear of the property has been enclosed with fencing. Although most of the Goldens will be adopted after a relatively short stay at the Sanctuary/Adoption Center, we want their visit to be a memorable one.


	7495 Natomas Road, Elverta CA 95626 \| TEL 916-655-1410 \| FAX 916-655-3410 \| Tax ID #68-0442702