Hi, Everyone! I'm really glad I found this forum. I'm one of the volunteers, as well as a foster mom, to one of the adult male dogs taken in the Siliski puppymill raid. I fell in love with the little guy when he was still too scared to come out of his cage. He's learned how to play, and is a happy little tail wagger now. I can't wait to make his adoption final.
I'd like to correct a couple of statements made.
The Williamson County commissioners voted unanimously to STOP the auction, and allow the foster parents first option to purchase their dogs. We DO NOT have to bid on them.
Right now, we are just waiting for the judge to sign off on the deal, as he has said he would.
The dogs will be evaluated by some Maltese experts who have volunteered their time, and a value will be placed on each dog, starting at a minimum price of $100. Veterinary costs that the foster parents have spent in excess of $100 will be taken into consideration. This very well could have left Williamson County with a deficit in what they've spent. But we were joyously surprised at the meeting by an announcement that a guardian angel has promised up to $125,000 to make up any shortfall in funds, providing all the dogs are spayed and neutered, which we wanted for them anyway. This wonderful person has asked to remain anonymous.
We have also set up a tax-deductible "Puppymill Fund" which is accepting donations to help any foster parent who would find paying their full given price a hardship. Many of our foster parents have taken in more than one dog, and some of their medical bills have already been very high. The cost of any unfostered animals will also be covered by the fund. (Un-fostered animals will be placed in loving homes through a special adoption process.) Any money remaining after the adoption of every animal will be used towards spay/neuter costs for these dogs and others. Donations to the fund may be sent to:
People for Animals
PO Box 991
Franklin, TN 37065
Designate to: The Puppy Mill Fund
(EIN: 62-1304791)
We have greatly appreciated all the support and good wishes we have received from Maltese lovers around the country. Thank you all!