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Last year, DogTime introduced the Unsung Hero Award, recognizing volunteers doing incredible work on behalf of homeless animals. This year, they are again asking the public to nominate those who are going above and beyond for shelters and rescues in their area. The recipient receives a trophy and a $10,000 donation to the rescue organization of their choice!
The Dogington Post wanted to take a moment to publicly announce our nomination for Unsung Hero of 2013, Theresa Strader, founder of National Mill Dog Rescue. We’re positive that after you learn about Theresa, you’ll be inspired to visit DogTime’s website and nominate her, too.
Watch Theresa explain how National Mill Dog Rescue was born:
From a brief history of National Mill Dog Rescue
“February 17, 2007, I arrived at the auction site in Lamar, Missouri – all new to me, I was completely unaware of what I was about to see and moreover, what I was about to learn. Little did I know that on that very day, I would embark upon the most daunting yet rewarding experience of my life. I distinctly remember every thought and feeling I had as I witnessed the cruel realities of the commercial dog breeding industry.At about noon that day, I laid my eyes on Lily for the very first time. As she cowered in the back of her cage, her jawless face staring back at me, I was overwhelmed by a flooding of emotions. I leaned close in beside her cage and made her this promise. “I’m going to take you from this hell and love you til you die.” I recall that moment as if it happened just today. In an effort to remain inconspicuous, I had to pull myself together and find the nearest exit. After a long walk, I found myself leaning up against the backside of an old barn where I slowly sunk to the ground in tears. I called my husband. I had so much to say yet nothing came out, nothing but tears. At that moment, I knew I would never rest again without taking a stand against the heartless cruelty put upon the animals that I have adored since I was a small child. The animals that throughout my life have never let me down. Man’s best friend. In that moment, on that day, National Mill Dog Rescue was born.”
Today, National Mill Dog Rescue is a thriving organization, with a network of volunteers working all over the world – dedicated to the memory of Lily. NMDR proudly upholds a no-kill policy, provides the highest level of veterinary care anywhere, operates with a 95% volunteer staff and is successful in finding permanent, loving homes for every single dog they rescue.
ruby barry
Jul 12, 2013 at 12:17 pm
thanks to your work to help animls such a need for it
Diana Anderson
Jul 11, 2013 at 6:51 pm
In order to nominate Theresa Strader, you need to have her email address. Could you post that please? thank you.
Brooke
Jul 12, 2013 at 9:54 am
[email protected]
Sandra Slack
Jul 11, 2013 at 5:42 pm
Love Theresa!! She is truly a hero in my eyes and the eyes of thousands, pups included! <3
Wanda Anderson
Jul 11, 2013 at 5:07 pm
Even though Theresa and her family lost their home in the recent CO fire, she never missed a beat to continue her passion and dedication to save as many pets as possible. If ever there was a person and/or time to be of help to someone…it is now.
4Skwirt
Jul 11, 2013 at 4:16 pm
Unsung Hero of 2013, Theresa Strader, founder of National Mill Dog Rescue. God bless you Miss Theresa for all you do.