Hoofing it for Horses and Dogs by Kathleen Gage

Most people have no clue how many horses are neglected, abandoned and abused yearly in the

United States.

According to an article on Time.com, “Rising

grain and gas prices, as well as the closure of American slaughterhouses, have contributed

to a virtual stampede of horses being abandoned — some starving — and turned

loose into the deserts and plains of the West to die cruel and lonesome deaths. Horse

rescue projects,

which are mostly

small, volunteer operations with limited land and resources, are feeling the consequences of this convergence of events. In the meantime, many now unaffordable horses are being sold to abattoirs south of the border where inhumane methods of slaughter are practiced.”

The cruelty to horses is on the increase each year rather than the other way around. Yet, there are those who are doing all

they can to minimize the problem.

Add to this the abuse, cruelty and abandonment of certain breeds of dogs and the problem is literally out of control. Pit Bulls are one of the most misunderstood breeds. Many people assume they are incredibly vicious and only used for fighting. This is so far removed from the

truth, yet, the lack of understanding continues to grow. Sadly, many of this breed are tortured, euthanized unnecessarily and feared.

There are those of us doing what we can to raise awareness and

money to help. I am amazed at the number of entrepreneurs involved in some type of animal rescue. Whether it be through the donations

we make, the animals we take into our homes or being spokespersons for raising awareness about what is going on, we find we do have a

voice that can help.

Over the last couple of decades, Karen and I have adopted horses,

goats, cats, dogs and even a ferret. We have taken in many stray animals who otherwise would

have died a terrible death. With us, they found their forever home.

In addition, Karen and I have donated thousands of dollars to various nonprofits specific to

animal rescue. I don’t say this for any other reason than to ask you to join in on a cause that is near and dear to my heart.

Over the last few months I’ve been training for the Eugene Marathon on Sunday, May 10, 2015.

My initial plan was to participate as a way to celebrate my 61st birthday (which takes place a

few days after the marathon).

It was shortly after my presentation at NAMS13 in March, I was given the idea to use my participation

in the 26.2 mile event o raise funds for two very worthy animal rescue organizations. You can read

about where the idea came from at http://kathleengage.com/fundraiser/

It didn’t take more than a few seconds for me to jump on the idea. Although there are any number

of organizations to choose from, I selected two that I have donated to and believe in; Emerald Valley Equine Assistance and Villalobos Rescue Center.

EVEAHR is dedicated to horse rescue while Villalobos Rescue Center has rescued thousands of

Pitbulls and other breeds of dogs over the years. Both are 501c3 organizations so any donation you make is deductible.

My goal is to raise awareness and at least $1,000 for each organization through contributions to support my efforts in the marathon. Would you be willing to join in the efforts and sponsor my 26.2 miles? Any amount is appreciated.

Delaney of Delaney’s Story – From Dumpster to Diva is the spokesperson for this. http://kathleengage.com/fundraiser/

My goal is to not only raise funds, but to raise awareness for both of these amazing organizations.

I truly wish there wasn’t a need for these organizations to exist, but that is wishful thinking. Not

only is there a need, but the need continues to grow every day.

For this reason, I have decided to use my marathon efforts as well as my marketing knowledge

to raise funds and awareness for the horses and dogs that have not voice.

All I ask is that you go to http://kathleengage.com/fundraiser/, read Delaney’s story and if you feel the calling, donate any amount to support these animal rescue organizations.

When you choose which one to support, be sure to send me a picture of your rescue critters. I

will be posting these on Facebook on Delaney’s page. Information on where to send your donation and pictures are at http://kathleengage.com/fundraiser/

About Kathleen Gage

Although Kathleen Gage is best known for her no nonsense approach to life and business, when she’s not working with clients, creating information products, writing books or speaking on the platform, Kathleen can be found training for a marathon, walking her dogs, working in her many flower gardens, feeding her horses or playing a fierce game of cards.