Connie Ley, Bela’s owner who passed away on November 25, had requested if Bela was unable to be sent to Best Friends Animal Society’s no-kill sanctuary that he be euthanized and buried with her. Best Friends quickly learned of this story through the media and immediately got involved.
“At Best Friends, we believe that the life of every animal has intrinsic value and we will always do our level best to help Save Them All, which is at the core of our mission,” said Francis Battista, Best Friends Animal Society co-founder and board chairman.
“Our trainers and animal behavior specialists will work with Bela so that he will have every opportunity to enjoy a full and rich life; we are thrilled to be able to save Bela’s life.”
Best Friends became aware of Bela’s temperament from Ley’s attorney and friends. Bela has a history of intermittent aggression, and Ley was concerned about the appropriate care and management of him after her death given Bela’s special needs.
Her attorney and a designated friend charged to decide what was best for Bela were unaware of Best Friends experience in providing appropriate care for dogs like Bela, and this lack of information was the primary cause for delay in resolving Bela’s future.
Bela's situation is an emotional reminder that our animals are members of our families, and families need to plan for their pets who survive them. Best Friends is one of a few animal organizations that offer a lifetime care program.
These programs typically guarantee a safe haven or loving home for a pet for life. However, it is something that needs to be planned in advance and organized between you and the designated organization.
John Garcia from Best Friends was dispatched to Indiana to transport Bela back to the Utah-based sanctuary. “So far he’s a cupcake - just look at his picture,” stated Mr. Garcia. “We spent some time getting to know each other before we hopped in the car, and now we’re both excited to get home.”
No comments:
Post a Comment