2023 Annual Report
DAWG Mission Statement:
To develop a successful adoption program for the abused, neglected, abandoned, or unwanted animals within the city of Denison, Texas. To eliminate the euthanasia of healthy, adoptable animals. To develop a network of partners and businesses to fund this endeavor, and to create an organization that oversees animal welfare within the city of Denison. To raise funds to pay for veterinary care and fees associated with animal rescue.
DAWG is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supported by volunteers dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and re-homing of pets in need. DAWG was established in 2014.
Current Board:
Stephanie Phillips, President
Bruce Edmaiston, Vice President
Kathy Whaley, Treasurer
DAWG Live Release/Save Rate = 99%
“Routine” shelter care medications include intake vaccinations and parasite wormers as well as monthly flea/tick/heartworm prevention. Every puppy, kitten, dog, and cat that enters the DAWG program receives not only the intake vaccinations and medications, but they receive repeat doses as needed for their time spent in the program. DAWG microchipped 851 dogs and 408 cats. “Routine” shelter care expenses for 2023 were approximately $75,000.
Additionally, animals receive antibiotics, pain medications and other treatments as needed. DAWG treated 56 Heartworm Positive dogs at no cost to their adopters.
We were grateful to be able to provide over 14,000 lbs. of dog and cat food to fellow community members experiencing temporary hardships.
Spay-Neuter 2023
Every animal released through the DAWG program to adoptive homes is required to be sterilized. 2023 turned out to be a challenging year for DAWG as we lost access to two of our low-cost providers. Staff and volunteers worked diligently to fill in the gaps and through the collaboration and generosity of some of our area veterinarians, we were able to continue our program.
Transport
Transporting animals from overcrowded shelters and rescue programs to partners in northern states allows us to save many more lives. Our transport program had a couple of unexpected setbacks in 2023. Our DAWG van broke down and required an entirely new engine. Thanks to the support of the caring people in our community we were able to raise the $17,000+ needed to make all the repairs. Just as we were ready to get back on the road, our northern partners started experiencing their own overcrowding situations and were unable to accept as many dogs. Our partnership with the ASPCA transport program continued and helped us provide opportunities for our dogs and puppies.
Transport expenses (fuel, health certs, etc.) were approximately $18,000 (in addition to the van repairs).
Broken bones, dislocations, gunshot wounds, sores, cuts, damaged eyes, tumors, parasites, demodectic mange, upper respiratory infections, parvo, dentals, emaciation, heartworms.
is it any surprise that DAWG incurred approximately $60,000 in veterinarian care including emergency care and unrelated to “routine” shelter care?
Throughout 2023 changes were made to the existing facility. Projects included installing guillotine doors in all the dog kennels with outside walls, building outside runs for those kennels on a new concrete base, plumbing changes and hook-up to the city sewer system, installation of a perimeter fence and access gates, and installation of a separate kennel building that includes heating and air conditioning. Approximate cost: $90,000
Mobile Adoption Events
Our mobile adoption events are critical to the success of our dog adoption program. Our kitties do not enjoy the trailer, so they prefer to be adopted at the DAWG House. Nearly every Saturday our dedicated volunteers load up the trailer and haul it to PetSmart in Sherman where they spend several hours caring for the dogs and assisting people interested in adding a new dog to their families. They also take the dogs to selected events/festivals. The trailer is climate controlled and runs off a generator. This year DAWG had to replace the adoption trailer generator. Approximate cost: $5,000+
Training
What better way to help ensure dogs stay in their homes than providing free training!
Our volunteer trainer, Dawn Day of A Pawsitive Dawg, led seven different series of four-week sessions and provided her insights and expertise to DAWG adopters and the general public who were able to get a reservation.
Each Thursday night at 5:30 owners and their dogs received “hands on” help and the opportunity to practice under her supervision.
Where Does the Money Come From?
Our adoption fees do not begin to cover our operating expenses. In 2023, DAWG was entirely funded by donations, grants, and fundraisers in addition to the adoption fees. It also takes lots of volunteers and volunteer hours to keep the operation functioning. It takes a strong presence in the community. Donations of consumable and durable goods from the public help to offset some expenses and provide “extras” for the dogs and cats housed at the DAWG House
A Letter from the Board of Directors of DAWG
As we approach the end of another remarkable year at DAWG, we wanted to take a moment to extend our heartfelt gratitude to you, our valued donors and supporters. Your unwavering dedication to our cause has made an immeasurable impact on the lives of countless animals in need.
Throughout this past year, your generous contributions have enabled us to continue providing essential care, shelter, and love to abandoned, neglected, and mistreated animals in our community. Thanks to your support, we've been able to:
Rescue and rehabilitate numerous animals, giving them a second chance at a happy and healthy life.
Provide essential medical care, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering services to ensure the well-being of every animal under our care.
Facilitate successful adoptions, matching loving families with furry companions and creating lifelong bonds of companionship and love.
Educate our community about responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and the importance of adoption through outreach programs and events.
None of this would have been possible without your generosity and belief in our mission. Your contributions have not only saved lives but have also brought joy, comfort, and hope to both animals and humans alike.
As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, we also look forward to the opportunities and challenges that the coming year may bring. With your continued support, we are confident that we can make an even greater difference in the lives of animals in need.
As we embark on this new journey together, please know that your kindness and compassion are truly appreciated, not only by our furry friends but by our entire community. Your generosity serves as a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for us all.
On behalf of everyone at DAWG, including our dedicated staff, volunteers, and, most importantly, the animals we serve, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your ongoing support. Together, we are making a difference, one paw at a time.