 |
By Diane A. Rhodes
The Press Enterprise
October 16, 2005
Posted with permission.
Living Free Animal Sanctuary began with five cats, ten dogs and one woman.
Emily Jo Beard acquired 153 acres near Idyllwild and opened a nonprofit, no-kill haven for cats and dogs.
On Saturday, a festive day of events marked its 25th anniversary. Visitors enjoyed the mountain's peaceful serenity that was pierced by an occasional playful yap from the kennels.
Fritz Coleman, a weathercaster for KNBC-TV (Channel 4), served as master of ceremonies for the celebration that was also intended to improve public awareness of the shelter and its mission.
Many dogs and cats have been given a new life thanks to Living Free. "But it's not about the numbers," said Joan Fagan, board president and director. She said it is about giving animals a much-improved quality of life until the proper placement is found.
Coleman, who admits his golden retriever is the best part of his life, said he fell in love with the area when he appeared at a nearby comedy club. "I'm astonished at the beautiful spirit of this place." he said.
The first documented use of the land was by the Cahuilla Indians as a healing ground and place of respite from the desert heat during the summer. It is reported that no hunting was allowed. "We can't separate the history from what we are doing now," said Fagan. "We take our responsibility seriously to protect this land."
A blessing of the animals by the Rev. Colin Henderson, an Episcopal priest, was offered to visitors who brought pets or photographs. "Pets help us look at life with new eyes," explained Henderson. "Give thanks to those who protect animals, especially the folks at Living Free.
The kennel is home to 33 dogs. When not in their grassy exercise yard that contains a play structure and igloo-shaped shelters, the dogs are sleeping in indoor [runs] arranged in a circular fashion with lots of natural light. Two or three dogs share each fenced-in run so they can socialize.
After touring the kennel, Coleman said it could easily be renamed the Canine Sheraton. He was impressed with its cleanliness and the architectural layout.
The cattery is home to about 55 cats, with lots of indoor and outdoor living space. Each cat gets a new name and birth date when they arrive, "because it really is the first day of their new life," said cattery caregiver Sharon McComb, of Hemet.
Board member Randall Harris said he discovered the sanctuary about a year and a half ago when he moved to Idyllwild. He was inspired by the dedication of kennel managers Connie Coots and Pam Horvath. Both joined the Living Free family 13 years ago.
Although Beard died in 1989, her vision is kept alive by staff that rescue, rehabilitate and find qualified homes for cats and dogs facing pound euthanasia at public animal shelters.
|
|
|
