Joseph Meier of Lincoln has a weakness for dogs. At one point he owned at least six, and it broke his heart if he knew of another that needed a forever home, knowing he simply didn’t have room for any more fur babies.
“Being an avid animal lover, and known as the town’s “crazy dog guy,” I know we often look at our pets and are reminded of how little time we get with them. Their lives are short considering the huge impact they have on ours,” Meier said.
Unfortunately, many dog owners don’t understand that dogs are very receptive to human emotions. They develop strong loyalty to their humans. They are known to love unconditionally, while some dog owners do not reciprocate their affection. Dogs ranging from puppies to the elderly are dropped off at local shelters, no longer wanted by their owners. Some are abandoned under different circumstances. Some are mistreated, beaten or used for illegal or unsavory “entertainment.”
Meier has gathered a group of locals who are also dedicated to these animals. The group, led by Meier and cofounder Joshua Baker, is in the process of working with various organizations to create “A Dog’s Life Rescue and Networking Association” rescue.
The group’s Mission Statement reflects their connection to this project. “A Dog’s Life Rescue and Networking Association is dedicated to providing compassionate care, rehabilitation and permanent loving homes for animals in need. Through our extensive network, we strive to create a positive impact on animal lives, promoting responsible pet ownership and fostering a community that values the well-being of every four-legged companion.”
Co-founded by Meier and Baker, the organization’s board of directors includes Kimbre Bacon, President; Amanda Howg, Vice President; Tasha Jablonski, Treasurer; Joseph Meier, Secretary; Lead Administrator, Joshua Baker; Tammy Voeltz, Sadie Small and Casey Curnutt.
While the group is in the process of licensing as a fosterbased rescue, the group has been working with the City of Lincoln Center to establish a spay and neuter program.
As a non-profit (401c3) organization, they plan to host fundraising events to help with their spay and neuter program, community vaccine clinics and many other events in the future.
“The first fundraising event was very successful,” Meier said.
On March 30, 20% of pizza sales at Mity Mart were donated to this organization.
“We are excited!” Meier added. “After the turn out, we feel confident that Lincoln County will be very supportive. We couldn’t be more pleased.”
For more information contact them at 785-829-0215, or email [email protected].
