A Passion for Animal Welfare

As an only child, I once asked my parents for a sibling and got a dog instead. Maybe this is what ignited my passion for dogs or maybe it is just in my DNA. All I know is that dogs have always been a huge part of my life from early on and I can’t remember a time when I didn’t have one.

My husband John and I currently have two — Munchie, a collie mix from a Memphis shelter, and Suki, a sloughi who was found on the streets of Doha, Qatar. Trust me, we would have a house full if it weren’t for spousal limitations, but I'm working on it. LOL. 

In the early 80s, I saw a documentary about greyhound racing and the fate of the dogs after their careers were over. At that time, they were not viewed as good pets. It was disturbing and I vowed that as soon as I was in a position to adopt I would. Fast forward to 1993 … I adopted my first greyhound, Buster, racing name Beach Bummer, who over the years was followed by nine others.

Shortly thereafter I started helping with awareness events. After a few years, I assumed the role of the South Bend representative for All Star Greyhounds. During my time with All Star and with the help of very dedicated volunteers, we placed over 100 greyhounds in the South Bend area. We also manned a concession stand at the Notre Dame hockey games as a fundraiser. Roughly eight years ago, when the racetracks started closing, the need for multiple greyhound rescues dwindled and All Star made the decision to dissolve.

My work with greyhounds fostered a sense of community with like-minded people who shared my passion for animal welfare. Working together toward a common goal strengthened our bonds and the shared experiences created lasting friendships.

One of those friends started her own all-breed rescue, Homeward Bound Animal Welfare Group, and asked if I would come help with a few adoptions. This led to my becoming the application coordinator and eventually a board member. Since its inception, Homeward Bound has placed over 10,000 dogs including a dozen to members of the Mendoza community. We typically take in dogs from kill shelters (meaning they euthanize for space), and owner and breeder surrenders. My role as application coordinator is to review applications, schedule adoption appointments and verify vetting information. I also help with adoption day activities. I typically devote about 10-20 hours a week to the effort.

Volunteering in rescue is not without challenges. The emotional toll can be profound when we encounter dogs that have suffered abuse and neglect, and have serious health issues. Sometimes the stories can make you question humanity and test your faith.

Financial constraints are a constant in rescue. The costs associated with veterinary care, food, shelter and other necessities can quickly accumulate. Fundraising and donations are essential lifelines for rescue organizations.

The unpredictability of rescue work can be mentally and emotionally taxing. We sometimes have to face the reality that not every dog can be saved and sometimes difficult decisions must be made.

Despite the challenges, the joy of working in rescue is immeasurable. Witnessing the transformation of a scared, injured or neglected dog into a happy and healthy companion is a gratifying experience. I am amazed by the resiliency of dogs. No matter how they have been treated, they always have this capacity to love. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that “dog” spelled backward is “God.”

The ultimate reward is the successful adoption of a rescue dog into a loving forever home. It makes me happy to know that I played a small role in this life-changing connection. It reaffirms the belief that every dog, regardless of their past, deserves a chance to experience love, security and happiness.

I once saw a sign that summed it up perfectly, “Saving one dog will not change the world, but for that one dog, the world will change forever.”

Maggie Neenan-Michel

Manager of the Faculty Support Center

Maggie with one of her rescues and rescues she has homed with Mendoza colleagues including Jean Mead, Adam and Katie Wowak, and Chris Hillak.