Miniature Schnauzer rescue efforts save dogs from "puppy mill"

Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston, Inc., founded in 2000, is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to saving the lives of abused, abandoned and unwanted Miniature Schnauzers. Many of the dogs are rescued from shelters, off the streets, from owners who can no longer care for them, and puppy mills.

The Rescue has no shelter. Instead, the dogs live in foster homes around the Houston-metro area until they are placed in permanent homes. The goal of the organization is to make sure that the dogs will never again have to face being on the streets, in a shelter, or any other dangerous situation. It is hoped they will find a safe, loving and secure life in their new "forever" home.

On January 28, 2008, Miniature Schnauzer Rescue was asked to pick up five female dogs between the ages of one to three years from the SPCA. The dogs were part of a group of 60 dogs seized by the SPCA from what was described as a "puppy mill" in Splendora. The dogs had not received sufficient care and all five had infections and three had to be in intensive care for five to ten days for antibiotic and breathing treatments. Kimmie Sue was in the worst shape. She was placed on medication for 4 to 6 weeks and had to have surgery from ear infections. Kimmie Sue today has improved dramatically. She is now home, and with her weight gain her appearance has changed for the better.

The MSRH spent in excess of $7000 on the five dogs rescued. Since its founding it has saved over 1200 Mini Schnauzers, and it spent $58,000 on vet care in 2006. MSRH has incurred a lot of debt due to the growing number of dogs it has rescued.

The organization is greatly in need of assistance to continue its work. It needs donations to cover veterinary treatment due to the growing number of critical cases in the past six months. Donations can be sent to MSRH INC., 1827 Ash Meadow, Houston Texas 77090. To donate for a specific animal's treatment, please specify. The donations can also be accepted online by credit card through Paypal.

To adopt, an application must be filled out prior to contacting MSRH. The application is available on line at www.msrh.org. Adoption fees are between $250 and $350, but there are exceptions. The fee goes toward the vet bill for the dog to be completely vetted, including spay/neuter, yearly shots, heartworm test and treatment if positive.

Kimmie Sue at the time of her rescue February 1, and on April 26 after treatment