Pantagraph.com | News | No-kill shelter in Colfax moves one step closer to expansion

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

to been there wrote on Sep 19, 2007 2:56 PM:

" been there, I know exactly what you are talking about. The only reason you came back daily...because you knew if you didn't...who would. I love those animals, but I feel so bad for them, & I 'm sure everything looks good right now because of the expansion, but I urge everyone to start stopping in for a peek in a few months...wait til the hype dies down. Then check it out. Lisa Crummett "

Lisa Crummett wrote on Sep 19, 2007 2:36 PM:

" Most of the dogs at this shelter are very nice, some are not, but there are to many, and they are starved for attention. To me that is worse than just going to sleep. Take care of the ones you have now, and don't get 300 more. The quality of life is more important than the quanity of animals you can keep alive. Remember when you're adopting out animals, that people & children's safety are more important than finding a home for an animal! "

Lisa Crummett wrote on Sep 19, 2007 2:30 PM:

" I went into the dog's cage, which was outside so there would be no need to go through a doggy door if that story was true anyway (police took photos of the dog in his outdoor kennel). I went in to FEED the dog. I was stooped down pouring the food when the dog came up beside me and bit me in the side of the face. I stood up to leave the kennel, and he grabbed me by the back of the head and began shaking me around the cage. I got away & he got me by the head again, this time knocking me to the ground. During this time I was trying to get away & he bit my thigh, my shoulder, & my chest. I got up and tried keeping him off with my arm. He grabbed on to my arm & began shaking it around and attacking it while I squeezed out the door & then fought to get my arm back. "

Lisa Crummett wrote on Sep 19, 2007 2:28 PM:

" I hope that the owner of the dogs does not allow the dogs to run loose, hopefully it was a rare occasion where they got away w/o there knowlege. Dogs do that sometimes, & that is why we as pet owners, need to make sure that if our dogs are vicious to people, that we put them down so that they don't get loose & attack a HUMAN! As for my story, I would like the chance to tell my version of what happened to me. Especially since I was the only one working, so I am the only one who knows what happened to me other than the firefighters, & ambulances that came to take me to the hospital. "

Lisa Crummett wrote on Sep 19, 2007 2:27 PM:

" Second, alot of dogs do not like cats, and that is just nature. Third, it is obvious to me that these dogs are not mean, if the girls were able to put them on leashes and walk them around. Why shoo two pitbulls, or anyother type of breed off of your property. Keep them on the leash and call animal control. I am sorry, however that the family had to see there cat being killed. "

Lisa Crummett wrote on Sep 19, 2007 2:27 PM:

" I am writing in reponse to the article "Pitbulls invade rural home", among other things. I am so ANGRY that an article about 2 dogs that kill a cat can make the Front page of the newspaper. However, I was badly attacked by a dog at work, and it does not make the paper until the owner of the shelter decides to expand. Then when it does make the paper, the information that is printed is not even accurate. First I would like to say that it only made the paper because of the breed. "

words of wisdom wrote on Sep 7, 2007 11:15 PM:

" To Been There: It shows what a small minded person you are that you feel the need to condescend, "dear", BUT I also have volunteered there and YES, things could be better, but that is the case with all shelters. Considering Pat and Garrie, started off with a barn, converted it, but STILL want to do more and make it better, I give them credit. They are LISTENING to people that are professionals and their suggestions, about temp testing, adoptions, more exercise for the dogs, etc etc. They WANT to make CISAR better and better and better. If you do too, then stop CRITICIZING and vocalizing your bitterness, as it only hurts the animals. If you dont want to support them, and think you can do it better, then start your own shelter. "

Animal Lover wrote on Sep 7, 2007 7:51 PM:

" I think we are getting off the subject somewhat. The point is Pat and Garrie are wonderful, caring, loving people and if I was an animal I would want to be found by or taken to them. I also have to say that if it bothers you so much then leave them alone and let them do what they were put on this earth to do, help innocent, helpless, animals. Would you want to see people just drop these animals off on some street somewhere that they would have to fend for themselves to find disgusting, spoiled food out of people's garbage, and getting hit by cars OR somewhere that they are least getting water, food and shelter? It doesn't take rocket scientist to figure out that answer. LEAVE PAT AND GARRIE ALONE!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

Ed wrote on Sep 7, 2007 6:11 PM:

" I hope that we(everyone-even if they are on opposing sides of the kill or no-kill shelter issue)will put aside their differences and support the cisar shelter and the owners. This is a good thing to do! "

Animal Lover wrote on Sep 7, 2007 5:33 PM:

" I adopted my cat 15 years ago from a kill shelter. He was only 8 months old and scheduled to DIE, DIE, DIE a week after I adopted him. I am not saying "kill" shelters are bad but they put animals down unnecessarily. Obviously 8 weeks isn't old at all and he wasn't the least bit sick. Pat and Garrie are trying to give these animals a home so they can live long enough for someone to adopt them. How about this scenario: Someone says, "I am looking for a Rat Terrier about 1 year old" The kill shelter says, "Gee, we just put one down yesterday because we had no room" Poor doggy could have had a home but because it was put down, too young....get the point???? What does it matter, it's just a dog, it has no feelings. That is what people think most of the time, it's just a dog oh well. I'm glad Pat and Garrie have a conscience. Looks like most people here don't. "

And so it goes... wrote on Sep 7, 2007 1:15 PM:

" All this talk doesn't stop people from not doing right by the animals they meet. I heard that Garrie found a 10-week old kitten in a box by the CISAR mailbox this morning. Kitty will be okay, but dang, that's no way to treat an animal (especially a baby)! "

my small 2 cents: wrote on Sep 7, 2007 10:54 AM:

" I think we are selfish as humans. I think we have no-kill shelters out there because we think it's better for them if they stay alive, but I think, we only think that because it makes US feel better. I would have to agree with some others on here posting, a life in a kennel with no family I would not like. "

to: animal Lover wrote on Sep 7, 2007 10:50 AM:

" Also...my dogs were all either spayed or neutered too, Control the Pet Population, please spay or neuter your pet!! "

to: Animal Lover wrote on Sep 7, 2007 10:40 AM:

" Overall I've adopted my dogs and cats from Kill Shelters! And they are great-every single dog/cats I've ever owned in my entire life has come from a shelter that does euthanize...that that would total about 11 dogs and 4 cats-do don't preach to me about adopting shelter animals. Plus my very best friends, throughout their life, about 5 shelter dogs and 3 shelter cats!! "

Incredulous wrote on Sep 7, 2007 10:33 AM:

" There really is something funny about the multiple comments that refer to the dogs being in kennels with dirt floors. Of course, before they were domesticated, dogs spent a great deal of time not only foraging but also looking for comfy plush carpeting to sleep on. When there was none available, they'd settle for an expanse of hard, uncomfortable concrete. Clearly my dog needs some intensive training or psychological counseling, because although we've provided her with outdoor bedding for when she's out in the yard, she just keeps lying in the dirt! "

Animal Lover wrote on Sep 7, 2007 10:26 AM:

" Okay "Think about it". Prisoners. They did a horrible thing to get put into there on their own. The animals did nothing wrong and all Pat and Garrie are doing is giving these wonderful animals a place that people can come adopt them. How many animals have you adopted in your life? If people would take the amount of time they are spending writing this GARBAGE and go volunteer and help, then maybe those animals won't be lonely as you say. I have been there many times and have seen people walking the dogs, playing with the kitties and doing other things there. If you don't know the full details and the whole story, then you have no right to down the Burrs. I have always adopted my animals and I would go to CISAR before the Humane Society. "

what about.. wrote on Sep 7, 2007 7:49 AM:

" the dogs that aren't adoptable??? They just sit day after day in a lonely kennel? Is that right on a animal? Would you want to sit there in a kennel for the rest of your life?? We are thinking the right way...a no-kill shelter...everyone lives?? But is that a good life??????? Think about the animals not our own feelings. We think that this is a great idea-the dog gets to live, it doesn't have to die by being euthanized, but it gets to live in a kennel. Kennel life: Eat, sleep, do my business, lay on the floor, walk in a circle.....365 days a year.......(I'm one of the mean ones too)! I get no walks, nobody pets me, I don't have a family...I just get to sit here day after day...mopeing around....that's my life..... "

THINK ABOUT IT!!!!! wrote on Sep 7, 2007 7:45 AM:

" Okay..improvement on the shelter that they have would be nice...I'm talking about no expansion. I've been there-really they don't need anymore animals. What about living a live behind BARS. I love the idea of it, but they are going about it the wrong way. Dirt Floors??? Are you kidding me. You're compairing this to people in nursing homes-try people in prision!!!!!! They are in a CELL for the REST of THEIR LIVES!!!!!!! A CELL!!!!!!!! "

been there too! wrote on Sep 6, 2007 11:42 PM:

" Your comments are misleading BEEN THERE. You have implied neglect and you could not be further from the truth. "

Ed wrote on Sep 6, 2007 11:13 PM:

" I was shocked to see the horrible comments that have been made against the Burrs. They are wonderful people that just want to save animals. Obviously, they want the shelter to be improved-why else would you go to all the trouble they have unless you cared so much for animals. Keep up the good work Cisar! "

A CISAR volunteer wrote on Sep 6, 2007 11:08 PM:

" Pat and Garrie-Don't let these ignorant, mean spirited people get to you!! You have so many more supporters than opponents! Together we will all be there to help see your dream realized. "

Animal Lover wrote on Sep 6, 2007 11:06 PM:

" Good point Al. "

Suzanne wrote on Sep 6, 2007 10:48 PM:

" I, too was fortunate to walk in the Labor Day Parade with the CISAR people. They are wonderful people that truly love animals. I have been to the shelter on many occassions. I helped when the ice storm hit. Pat and Garrie immediately organized volunteers(many) to bring water and distribute it along with food and blankets. They were never without food, water or medicine. Pat and Garrie agree that things can be better, that is why they want to build the new facility! I agree with Words of Wisdom! If you think there are problems why don't you come volunteer. If we all love animals and want what is best for them shouldn't we work together to help save them? I want to thank Pat and Garrie for all that they do. They are always either out at the shelter, adopting animals at Pet-Co, getting supplies for the animals or picking animals up from shelters that can no longer keep them. The new buildings will be great. With so much community support and love from all those who love animals-this will be a success!!! "

Al wrote on Sep 6, 2007 10:19 PM:

" To Animal Lover: You raise an excellent point; and it sounds as if most people on this blog would support the theory of euthanizing the homeless. But, why stop there? Look at the number of people in nursing homes, who are no longer able to productively contribute to our society. They sit in soiled linens and clothing waiting for somebody to bathe them, change them and feed them. Maybe we should close all No-Kill nursing homes too "

Dave wrote on Sep 6, 2007 10:12 PM:

" By the comments posted, it is obvious many have some vendetta or grudge against this organization, or you are too small-minded to support someone making a difference in the world. How would you solve the issues of animal cruelty, pet overpopulation and abuse that other humans propagate? Would you simply kill every puppy and kitten that is abandoned, lost or abused? These animals did not ask to be tortured or abandoned. I have worked with CISAR for nearly a year. I was there when the power was out during the ice storm. We worked for hours in the dark, to ensure that the animals were properly cared for and kept warm. I have cleaned kennels, fed and walked animals and been present while a licensed veterinarian examined animals, treated them and performed surgery, when needed. Does CISAR provide good, loving care? You better believe it! Could it be better? Without a doubt! How? Get involved and volunteer your time to support this worthy cause. Stop complaining, stop the negativity and start making a positive difference in the world by taking some action. "

Animan Lover wrote on Sep 6, 2007 10:01 PM:

" I have worked many times with Pat and Garrie and they are wonderful people. I have worked Petco and voluteered at the fair with them. I am glad there is a shelter out there that doesn't just kill an animal because it has been at the shelter for a certain amount of time, especially young animals that have a long life ahead of them. Why do we have homeless shelters for humans? Why shouldn't we euthanize them if they have been there for a certain amount of time? Most of the poeple in homeless shelters can get jobs but an animal can't. What is the difference between a human and a dog or cat? They are all living creatures that God created and an animal has the same rights to live as much as a human does. Are humans any better than a dog, cat or any animal? Why don't you just leave Pat and Garrie alone and let them do their good deed that obviously God put them on this earth to fulfill. "

been there wrote on Sep 6, 2007 2:52 PM:

" To: "Words of Wisdom", Dear , I DID volunteer out there, for several years. The only thing keeping me going back every single day (yes, every day not weekly or monthly) was to make sure animals did have food/water. When I did miss a day it was obvious, because there was NO water in the bowls, no cleaning of litter, no food in bowls. Oh ..did I fail to mention how ALL the sick animals were kept in the same rooms as the once healthy animals ??? Her heart is in the right place, I don't deny that, but the help, money, and common sense is not there. "

been there wrote on Sep 6, 2007 2:52 PM:

Puppies wrote on Sep 6, 2007 2:10 PM:

" I live in Colfax and one day someone dropped 3 puppies in a small carrier outside the grocery store even before it was open. The animal control officer from Colfax had to take those puppies to that shelter. So I wonder who the low life is that would do such a thing - and is the shelter better? "

Been there wrote on Sep 6, 2007 2:07 PM:

" I have been there the smell is horrible and there are mice all over - they told me they have a "catch and release system" for the mice! Oh my! "

words of wisdom wrote on Sep 6, 2007 11:43 AM:

" If you have issues with how things are run at any shelter, go to that shelter and volunteer to make a difference. If you feel kennels arent clean, go out there and clean them. If you feel dogs arent getting enough exercise go out there and exercise them. Litterboxes too full, water bowls too empty? You know the answer. Think they need more volunteers? VOLUNTEER to be the volunteer coordinator and ask everyone you know to help make a difference and volunteer!!!! Until then, keep the hostile, ignorant comments to yourself please as they do nothing to help get the animals adopted. "

complaints... wrote on Sep 5, 2007 3:44 PM:

" keep them coming...she doesn't need to be running that place. We need to get together and make sure of it!! "

been there wrote on Sep 5, 2007 3:04 PM:

" I doubt you'll hear the stories of what happened out there because it will be denied. Ask about the dead horse sometime, or all the dead cats, or the dogs that attacked each other, the empty water bowls, the overflowing litter boxes, I could go on and on. I respect and admire her desire to want to help these animals, but something still aint' right out there.... "

been there wrote on Sep 5, 2007 3:01 PM:

" You won't hear the stories of what happened out there because Pat will deny it all. Ask her about the dead horse sometime, or all the dead cats, or the dogs that attacked each other, the empty water bowls, the overflowing litter boxes, I could go on and on. I respect and admire her desire to want to help these animals, but something still aint' right out there.... "

been there wrote on Sep 5, 2007 3:01 PM:

sounds like.. wrote on Sep 5, 2007 2:09 PM:

" they don't need an expansion, but they need to be shut down?! "

Concerned also wrote on Sep 5, 2007 1:25 PM:

" isn't this the same shelter that was asking for hand outs this past winter during the ice storm for generators and other items? If they can't take care of the animals they have now why would we as a community let them expand and have more animals. I have been to that shelter to adopt a dog for my children, we walk in and turned around and walked back out. Awful living conditions for the animals. "

to: concerned wrote on Sep 5, 2007 12:33 PM:

" We need to make sure they don't get that expansion then. If they can't take care of the animals they have now...they don't need anymore. Rat Problem!!!! YUCK!!! I would rather see my pet euthanized humanely then having them in a shelter hanging out with rats and sitting on a dirt floor!!!! I SAY NO TO THE EXPANSION!!!! Do they even have air conditioning out there for the dogs in the barns? "

thanks to CISAR wrote on Sep 5, 2007 11:47 AM:

" Pat and Gerri are wonderful people to deal with. CISAR also helps "kill shelters" when they have adoptable pets that have "went past their time limit" in the kill shelters. If you are looking to adopt a pet, please take a short drive. And BTW to concerned I would not call Pat and Gerri elderly! "

to: well wrote on Sep 5, 2007 10:30 AM:

" I agree! Are the dogs getting all the medical attention that they need? If they are sick do they get the medicine that they need? Are these dogs getting the appropriate amount of exercise? If they get sick are they then put down or are the other dogs around them getting sick too? "

concerned... wrote on Sep 5, 2007 10:03 AM:

" While I think it's heart felt for these people to want to help all of these animals that other people are so willing to dispose of... I just can't agree with how many animals they are taking in. These people are elderly.. I know for a fact that these dogs are living in cages inside a barn all on dirt floors... I have spoken to Pat before about a rat problem she's having. She wakes up in the morning to dead rats in the dog water bowls... How can these two people have 400 dogs or cats at once???? Thats rediculous and I can't believe anyone would allow it. I don't agree with euthanizing animals just because they can't find homes but what about the ones that have been in a shelter half their lives just suffering? What about the 16 year old dog with health issues??? You can't save them all, no one can save them all. People just need to learn to be more responsible with their pets and not so quick to pawn them off on others! "

To: You Know wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:55 AM:

" You save a life by adopting a pet from any rescue or shelter.. even no-kill shelters. Why? Because you open a spot for another pet to be rescued from the side of the road, or abusive home, or from a high-kill shelter. Any rescue is a good rescue! "

MrShake wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:52 AM:

" To: Who Pays what defines their worth to you? You base your decisions on what, your ignorance? "

poor pups wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:37 AM:

" So the dogs that aren't adoptable...sit in doggie jail for the rest of their lives?? "

you know.. wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:23 AM:

" CISAR claims that you are saving a life when you adopt from there, exactly how? They are not going to be euthanized?? So how is that saving them from anything? If you want to "SAVE" a pet...adopt from the shelters that do euthanize?? Doesn't that make more sense?? "

Hey!! wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:21 AM:

" A no-kill shelter is like a life in prison for a dog/cat. Our society is so "disposable" we take animals in, get tired of them, then take them to a shelter. I hate that!!!!! If you have a pet get them fixed because we all know there are too many already out there. Then be Responsible for your pet. You can go on Pet Hotline....everything on there is "I'm moving, My apartment won't take this many cats.." Hello people!!!!! "

well... wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:17 AM:

" that's too many animals!!! For anyone!!!! Can all of those animals really be healthy out there?? "

JEN wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:05 AM:

" I had an opportunity to hang out with these amazing people and some of their animals at the Labor Day parade.... so ignorance is not an excuse for such phrases as "worthless creatures". What are you doing to help any living being aside from yourself? That's what I thought, nothing. " Looks like it. Smells like it. Sure glad I didn't step in it. " More ignorance spewed by those who were raised to know no better. I am ashamed of people like you who refuse to give living creatures a chance at a true life. I wonder how you would feel were the roles reversed... A good old saying I would remind you to adhere to... "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all." THANK YOU BAMBI! "

TO: WHO PAYS wrote on Sep 5, 2007 8:33 AM:

" Most no-kill shelters are funded by donations and volunteer staff. And it's because of US (humans) that most of these "worthless creatures" are overpopulated & undercared for. Another example of how we think we can use & abuse mother nature with no consequences. Hats off to CISAR - keep up the worthwhile work!! "

get real wrote on Sep 5, 2007 7:29 AM:

" put the mean dog down "

one step closer wrote on Sep 5, 2007 5:57 AM:

" Looks like it. Smells like it. Sure glad I didn't step in it. "

Who Pays? wrote on Sep 5, 2007 2:34 AM:

" Who pays the feeding and care taking bill for all these worthless creatures? "