Rosie Garza is the founder of the non-profit organization Love for Paws Rescue. KENS 5 sat down with Garza as she described her passion and dedication to all animals.
She lives for calls from concerned citizens wanting to report an animal in need of her services. Garza even remodeled her home to accommodate homeless animals.
What’s the story behind Love for Paws and how did it get started?
Love for Paws Rescue started as a home based rescue, out of a two bedroom home, bringing in two to five fosters at a time. LFPR has grown as a shelter organization housing and caring for over 50 homeless animals.
One of our most recent cases that really touched my heart is that of Charlotte. This little girl was brought into ACS with an injured leg. We will never know how she was injured, but she was missing her foot above the ankle.
Even with this severe and obviously painful injury, Charlotte continued to smile and give kisses freely to everyone she met. Even after her amputation of her remaining leg, Charlotte just continued to love life, love people, love every minute.
Although she now only has three legs, Charlotte doesn't seem to know the difference. She runs, jumps, bounces, digs and climbs with such joy.
Why are you so passionate about animals?
I think we all have a calling and purpose in life and I believe saving animals is mine.
How many dogs have you rescued?
I've lost count but if I had to guess, the number would definitely be over 1,000 since I 've been rescuing for over 20 years
How many dogs do you rescue at one time?
Forty to fifty. That number varies. I recently took in two pregnant moms. Both gave birth only days apart. Now we have a total of 17 new born puppies.
What’s a typical day for dogs at Love for Paws Rescue?
In the shelter, there are homeless dogs but when they are out in the yard, playing in the pool and rough housing, they are not homeless dogs, they are simply "Dogs."
Do you hold adoption days?
We usually do, but lately I have been overwhelmed with the high number of animals coming in.
What’s your goal for LFPR?
We added a fourth building with a private yard that is now housing 11 puppies. Our goal like any rescue is to find homes for every homeless dog.
My vision for LFPR is to someday be able to provide more help to our community and reduce the problem of homeless animals
Volunteers are needed to walk dogs and socialize cats. Learn how you can get involved at www.loveforpawsrescue.com
