News
We URGENTLY require Volunteers to help with fostering and fundraising.
Please get in touch if you think you can help.
2 of our younger volunteers have gone undercover!!
2011
SEPTEMBER 2011
Sunday 25th September 2011
What a FANTASTIC day Sophie and the Staff of LUSH Warrington generously arranged for us on Sunday 25th September 2011, outside Golden Square Shopping Centre (by the Alice in Wonderland Statue), to help with a Fundraising and Awareness Day for our Dog Rescue
The week before, Lush had been busy fundraising in their Warrington shop for our Rescue and, on the day, they had arranged an hour's dog walk, with the proceeds also going to our Rescue. Both humans and dogs enjoyed their walk and welcomed the refreshments laid on by Lush at the end of their walk. The Lush goody bags for the humans and the doggy bags for their four-legged friends were also much-appreciated.
After the walk, we held our Teddy Tombola Stall, Teddy Lucky Dip, Doggy Treat Lucky Dip, as well as having Dog Items and various other items for sale. We gave lots of our PDR balloons out. Our stall was very popular, especially our Teddy Tombola. Well done to everyone who won. Thank you to everyone who came over to say hello, have a chat, ask questions and make donations.
Our stall also had information about our Rescue, how to go about volunteering and becoming a fosterer or fund-raiser, and pictures of re-homed dogs.
We would like to thank everyone who showed interest in our Rescue and took away our leaflets to consider becoming a volunteer or fosterer. Hopefully we will be able to increase the number of volunteers or fosterers we have.
We also had a cuddly life-sized (human!) dog walking round the shopping centre giving out our (PDR) balloons. He was stopped and cuddled lots of times and also had his photo taken with the children.
Thank you to everyone who helped to fill up his collection tin. Sam raised £20 on the day. Thank you to Faye Ewan (10) who joined Sam later, as the other Cuddly dog, and also worked hard on the stall.
Huge thanks to Emma, and the other Staff of Lush who helped on the day (sorry we don't know your names), and especially Willem from Lush who dressed up in the spare dog suit and went around the shopping centre with Sam, until Faye turned up.
He must have lost a few pounds on the day, it was so hot wearing the suit!. He also helped Sam with blowing up all our balloons. Thank you all for your hard work the week before, on the day, and the days after, Phoenix and our dogs thank you all for what you have achieved.
We had a lovely day meeting all the dogs and their owners, chatting to people, and seeing some familiar faces. I hope I didn't frighten anyone when Sam was pushing me around the shopping centre in my wheelchair. He was in his dog suit, but was feeling hot because he was pushing me uphill, so he took his (dog) head off and stuck it on my head!! We must have looked a strange sight, especially as there were also balloons sticking out of the wheelchair as well!
Everyone at Phoenix really appreciate the funds you have helped to raise but, most of all, it is our Rescue dogs who send lots of doggy licks and kisses as it is them who benefit, as every penny raised goes towards their welfare and vets bills until they find their forever, loving homes.
Sunday 11 September 2011
We would like to thank Warrington & St Helen's RSPCA for inviting us to their Fun Day Dog Show at Taylor Park, St Helens. We enjoyed the day and it was great to see so many familiar faces as well as getting to talk to some lovely people.
We loved the dogs that came to visit us and gave us slobbery licks and kisses and the dogs, and children, who were so happy with winning their teddy tombola prizes.
Muffin, in particular, was amazing. He was on the next stall to us. He is a Support Dog who has been trained to assist his owner in many tasks around the home and outside.
Amongst his many duties, he can take the washing out of the washing machine, fetch the phone when it rings and, on the day, he was carrying the donation tin around in his mouth. He looked so cute, but he knew he was working, I wish I could borrow him!!
It's mine - please let me play with my toy.
I love my Tigger
(one happy Shar Pei)
There were plenty of dogs entering the dog shows and one of my favourites (a rescued rottie) I'd met earlier, won first prize in her class.
Thank you to all who came along and supported us and helped us to raise funds for our rescue, including the children who donated their pocket money. It means so much to us and the dogs.. We hope you all enjoyed your day.
JULY 2011
Sunday 24th July 2011
We would like to thank everyone who came along to our Teddy Tombola and Doggy and Gift Stall at Dogs Trust, Huyton, to say hello and help us raise much needed funds for our rescue.
We had a lovely day at the Merseyside Open Day and Fun Dog Show 2011 on Sunday 24th July 2011 at Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre, Merseyside, Whiston Lane, Huyton, Liverpool, L36 6HP.
There were various sales stalls, tombola stalls, refreshments including a barbeque, fun for kid's, Grand raffle, Dog dash, Fun dog show and Mobile dog rehoming unit to name a few.
Thank you to the Organisers for our invite, we enjoyed our day and raised much-needed funds for our Rescue.
Tuesday 19th July 2011
RUBY'S HOME
We would like to thank everyone who helped in any way to spread the word about 'Stolen Ruby' and took Posters and Cards to keep a look-out for her.
Ruby came home on Tuesday evening 19th July 2011 on Ruby Tuesday as it was known - one day after her owner's birthday, after being away from her home for 9 1/2 weeks.
She was found running loose in Liverpool, and handed in to a house that had a Ruby poster in the window. She had probably been made 'too hot to handle' and set free!!. She has been checked out by the vet and is fine, none the worse for her 'little adventure!'
Before being stolen -19wks
Back Home - 28 1/2 weeks
Saturday 16th July 2011
Love the wellies!!!
We held our Teddy Tombola and Doggy and Gift Stalls at Winwick Carnival, Recreation Ground, Middleton Lane, Winwick, Warrington on Saturday 16th July 2011 between 12 and 5pm.
Alongside our own stall, there was a good selection of other stalls, displays in the arena, which included a falconary and owl display and a display by the strongest girl in the world and her 'former strength champion' father. There was also entertainment by the Funky Monk's, a Fun Fair and Archery. plus lots more to keep everyone happy on the day.
After very heavy downpours whilst we were setting up, the rain eased off.
However, thankfully this year, we were able to stay dry when it rained heavily, as we were under 2 large gazebos that we had hired from the committee - we didn't want a repeat of last year when we had to abandon two of our own badly damaged gazebos!!.
We would like to thank the Committee for inviting us to their Carnival once again. They organise a brilliant show, and nothing was too much trouble for them on the day. If we needed help of any kind, which we did several times due to the very strong winds, they appeared there and then.
We would also like to thank everyone who came along to our stall to support us and help to raise much needed funds for our Rescue.
JUNE 2011
Sunday 26th June 2011
Thank you to everyone who came along and supported us at our Teddy Tombola Stall at Dam House/Heritage Tea Rooms in Astley, on Sunday 26th June 2011. It was the 3rd Summer Fayre & Dog Show held by Lilford Animal Welfare.
It was a beautiful day with the sun beating down, perhaps a bit too hot at times (we're never satisfied with the weather are we!!!) There was plenty of activity with all the dog classes going on throughout the afternoon, plus stalls, and the food and drink in Astley Tea Rooms looked superb - shame we were too busy to try anything.
Sam, once again, did a brilliant job going around the ground selling lots of different items from our stall (or should I say twisting people's arms, in a good way - he's a good sales person!!) which really helped to boost our Rescue Fund. A lot of interest was also shown in our Teddy Tombola and we had a lot of winners. Thank you to everyone who had a go - and in some cases, several.
Look what I won I'm going to have some fun
We love our teddies
It was lovely to see Dawn with little Sally, it was a shame that Abi arrived just after they left. We were so pleased to see 'recently re-homed' Abi with her new family. Hope all goes well with her Sheila. Wendy has done a great job with Abi and, although she was nervous of us, I'm sure with continued patience, kindness and love from her new family, she will become a fantastic companion and return the love she so desperately wants and is already getting from them. It already looked as if they were gaining her trust
.
Abi looking happy, having a day out with her new family.
We had a successful and really good day meeting old and new friends. Thank you Adele for inviting us along once again, to hold our stall at your fayre.
Beautiful Newfoundlands
It's been a very busy day
SATURDAY 11 JUNE 2011
Thank you to everyone who came along and supported us on our Teddy Tombola and Doggy and Gift Stall at the Historic Hale Village Carnival on Saturday June 11th in Hale Village Park Liverpool 24. You helped us to raise much needed funds for our Rescue.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who showed an interest in Ruby, who is still stolen and to those who took her cards away with them to spread the word about her.
Preparations on stage for entertainment
Unfortunately the day started off with torrential rain just as the gazebos and stalls were being set up! However, the rain did eventually stop and we had sun and clouds, with the odd mild shower for the rest of the day.
It was lovely to meet up with Hazel from CHAR (Cat Homing and Rescue) once again and have a natter..
Refreshment area
There was plenty going on, starting with the Crowning of the Carnival Rose Queen and the Historic Procession around the Village. There was a stage with live entertainment, an arena with different types of shows such as tai chi, a collie rounding up geese, and a dog show, to name just a few. There was donkey rides for the children, stalls showing reptiles and spiders and further stalls selling a variety of goods. There was also a fairground, clay pigeon shooting and a refreshment tent and much, much more.
Thank you to the Carnival Committee for inviting us to come along and hold our stall at your Carnival. We had a successful day.
FEBRUARY 2011
EILEEN JONES "eileenalana" - SAD NEWS
A Moving Tribute to a Very Special Lady - written by Dawn
On Wednesday afternoon, 2nd February 2011, Eileen lost her battle against cancer. She went peacefully, in her sleep, surrounded by her much loved family.
Eileen was one half of the Dynamic Duo of Eileen and Stuart, two of the founding members of Phoenix Dog Rescue - known on DP as Eileenalana. Eileen worked at pretty much everything in rescue - she was a foster mum to countless dogs, did homechecks, vet runs, picked dogs up from pounds - Eileen was in charge of follow-up adoptions, homecheck co-ordinator, vet liaison and loved fundraising.
We all used to have a giggle at her phone calls to us that started with "I was in the bath, and had an idea...." and then beg her to shower instead.
She was a true rescuer. Food runs to the RSPCA, adopting pretty much every elderly cat they had sitting there, waiting for a home. She couldn't NOT help.
She wasn't a saint - that would be dull, and hanging out with Eileen and her wicked sense of humor was anything but dull.
She was upbeat and positive, all through her chemo, and radiation. She made us all laugh when her son got married last year, by bringing her "Wedding Hair" wig to a PDR meeting. She was upbeat til the end.
So, I ask you all to raise a glass to Eileen, and for kind thoughts to her husband (Should I say "Long Suffering" Stuart?) and her Mother, brothers and sisters, kids and grandkids - she loved her family, and they adored her.
If it wouldn't be too much to ask, could you spare some kind thoughts for us all at Phoenix as well - we seem to have a large unfillable hole in our hearts at the moment. And, Eileen - if you are reading this from a laptop at The Bridge - I know you would hate this, you wouldn't want a fuss, but Stuart didn't think he could do it, as you would kill him - I said I would do it and if you want to come haunt me, that would be lovely - I'll make us a cuppa cappuccino.
Eileen Jones. July 7, 1957 - February 2, 2011.
Not Long Enough.
From Jules PDR
Today I have lost a truly great friend. It's so unfair, she was an exceptional person and the hole that she has left in all of our lives will never be filled.
From Barbara PDR
One in a million. Eileen never seemed to let anything get her down, no matter what, even when she was so ill. She was always willing to listen to our troubles, regardless of her own and she always had a funny story to tell Jules and I when we called in to see her and Stuart and all their doglets. She was such a strong personality, and I know she'd tell me to 'bog-off', or words to that effect!! for saying so, but she was a true angel and went above and beyond 'the call of duty' for the dogs (and cats) and especially the Rescue, with Stuart's help of course!! Nothing was too much trouble and she was always organising something for the Rescue to help raise money.She has left us with a huge space that is going to be impossible to fill. She is irreplaceable. Today I have lost a true friend. My love to Stuart and all the family
From Chris PDR
I feel very privileged to have met Eileen & over the last year or so when I became a volunteer for Phoenix Dog Rescue admired her so much. Eileen was a 'doer' she just got on with things and did them, without any fuss. What you saw is what you got with Eileen, a real down to earth person. She fought her battle hard and head on. She made me laugh and had an eye for a bargain, always on the lookout for anything to make money for the rescue. Eileen you will be sadly missed girl. Hugs for Stuart & family.
From Sam (13) PDR
A short video tribute made by Jules' son Sam
Thank you to AngieK9 for this link
There are so many moving tributes, on Dog Pages/Chatter, that have been written straight from the heart which show what a well loved and respected lady Eileen was. Thank you for sharing your life with us Eileen and sharing yours with so many furry friends. You were a true rescuer.
The amount of people who turned up for Eileen's funeral was phenomenal - people had to stand outside the chapel listening to the service via the tannoy system as there was not enough room inside to fit everyone in - a true tribute to such a special, caring and unselfish person whom Eileen was. It showed just how much she was loved and admired.
Thank you from Stuart - 13th February 2011
This is the most difficult post i have ever had to post, as i tried yesterday but couldn`t. Firstly i want to thank Dawn for the initial post (which i would not have been able to do) and all the help she gave and thank everyone for their tributes, support and thoughts in the days that followed. I know the family would also like to add their thanks for all the support.
Eileen was always one to look on positive side and didn`t let the illness get her down, as she kept on helping the dogs in need whenever she could, not letting too many people know how ill she really was.
The funeral took place on 10th Feb, which was eighteen years to the day when i first met Eileen, having been married to her close on sixteen and half years, the number of people attending showed how much people thought of her.
Eileen has left a massive hole in my heart, i can not imagine life without her.
Love you forever, goodnight for now.
Stuart xxx
2010
DECEMBER 2010
Noah's Ark
Another huge thank you to Andy, Terry and the gang from Noah's Ark in Widnes Market for raising a fantastic £40 for us.
Louis
News about re-homed Louis 18th December 2010 from John, Leona and Chris.
Tomorrow it will be exactly one year since Louis came into our family, what a wonderful year it has been. It feels like he has always been with us and everyone he meets loves him to bits.
He had his "M.O.T." not long ago and the vet told us he was in fine order for a dog of his years. My only problem is stopping Leona dressing him in very un-masculine Santa suits (but he does have a camouflage top with skull and crossbones on it).
Took a few pics this morning for you and also attached one from the other night when Louis and our Cockatiel decided to help with the washing up.
We have around 10 inches of snow here at the moment and poor Louis can't handle "disappearing" when he asks to go out, so stays close to the house. Human food is still his weakness but he hardly gets any as he is watching his figure, spare rib bones are his favourite and we have to check his hiding places regularly for contraband.
Many thanks for providing us with the absolute best little dog in the world and have a great Christmas and New Year.
Cheshire Dogs Home
Thank you to the Organisers at Cheshire Dogs Home, Grappenhall, Warrington for inviting us to have a table at their Christmas Fair on Sunday 5th December 2010.
We would also like to thank everyone who came along and supported us on such an awful foggy and icy day. It was soooooooooooooo cold outside!!!!!, we were frozen to the bone.
However, it was lovely to see so many people had made the effort to brave the weather and come and support the Fair. They helped to raise much-needed funds for PDR rescue, by having a go on our Christmas Tombola and Tiny Teddy Lucky Dip, which made all our efforts worthwhile.
Our 'PDR' sweets, which were beautifully made by our volunteer, Louise, also proved to be very popular. Well done Louise.
Thank you to EVERYONE who contributed.
NOVEMBER 2010
Helsby High School Christmas Fair
A huge thank you to everyone who supported us at our stall on 28th November 2010 at Helsby High School. We would also like to thank the organisers for their invite to take part in their Christmas Fair. It was a lovely day, enjoyed by all, with lots of different stalls to choose from.
Our new volunteers Jo and Mel, and Mel's friend Michelle, helped out and they really enjoyed themselves. All but three of our teddies were won.
Louise and Shanel, Eileen's grandaughter's worked hard helping Eileen get all the stuff ready the night before and setting the 2 tables up on the day. Thanks girls for your hard work.
The lady who won the giant teddy was thrilled to bits at having her picture taken.
Once again Eileen had her lucky hat on and won 6 gifts at other tombola stalls. Wonder whose stall they'll end up on next!!
Name Our Mascot
We would like to thank everyone who had a go at choosing a name for our Mascot. We had some weird and wonderful suggestions!!
The Winner was chosen by our new junior volunteer Mel on Sunday 14th November 2010.
After two years of remaining nameless, thanks to jo@thewilderness, our Mascot is now called......................................
COLIN
Well Done Jo
OCTOBER 2010
Thank you so much to everyone who had a go at our Halloween Wordsearch.
We are pleased to announce that the winner is Florence!
SEPTEMBER 2010
Taylor Park, St. Helens
We were at Taylor Park, St. Helens on 12th September 2010 with our Teddy Tombola and Doggie Goods Stall. The RSPCA of Warrington, Halton and St.Helens held a Family Funday and Dog Show and kindly invited us along to take part.
There was also free dog training advice, free pet care advice, dog chipping, Paws'n'Claws, Retired Greyhound Trust, Pat Dog Therapy, and of course the RSPCA stalls, as well as our own PDR stalls.
Little & Large
Jules in love with Pepsi
To keep the children entertained there was face painting, bracelet making, a pottery wheel, a funfair, reptile stall, and other stalls including those selling lovely homemade fudge and 'ye olde sweet shoppe'.
We were very fortunate with the weather, considering how bad Saturday had been, the sun even shone for us all so we were able to enjoy our day.
Sam and Shanel also enjoyed themselves dressing up in the doggie costumes.
Once again we met some of our friends and were delighted to see Lindsey, Andy and 'nan', with their gorgeous girl Mindy, whom they adopted from Phoenix. Mindy was one of our first Phoenix dogs, so we all have a soft spot for her. She looks so happy.
They had a very lucky day winning on our raffle, and also Mindy came 2nd in the veteran (over 7s) class. Well done Mindy.
Mindy proudly showing off her Rosette
Andy & Mindy with Raffle prize
Winner of first prize
Winner of 5th Prize
Well done to all our other Raffle winners and thank you to everyone who took part.
We would also like to thank the RSPCA Organisers for inviting us to be part of their show
Woolston Park, Warrington
We were at Woolston Park, Warrington on Sunday 5th September 2010 from 12.30 p.m until 4.30 p.m with our Teddy Tombola, Gift Tombola stalls and Doggie Goods for sale.
Shanel, Stuart, Chris & Eileen
Sam, Shanel & Louise
Sam & Chris
Claire & Harley with his new bandana
It was a traditional day of horticulture, fun and family entertainment with lots taking place for people of all ages, including falconry displays, morris dancers, circus skills, fun dog show run by the Retired Greyhound Trust, and much more....
Morris Dancers
Shanel & Sam racing on stilts
Donkey Rides
Chris
Shanel & Louise
It was great to meet everyone and have chance to see some of the events that were taking place.
Max, a very happy winner
The day started slowly but it soon became very busy and all hands were needed 'on deck'. We had a wonderful time and a very succesful day and would like to thank the organisers for inviting us along.
AUGUST 2010
Dogs Trust Open Day Merseyside
We were at the Dogs Trust Open Day at Huyton Merseyside from 12 p.m - 4 p.m on 22nd AUGUST 2010 with our Teddy Tombola Stall.
We would like to thank Heather for inviting us to take part. We had a lovely day, meeting old and new friends, both human and dogs, and also being able to put some faces to names on D.P. The weather was very kind to everyone and the organisation was excellent. There was a lovely atmosphere. Thank you to the ladies who brought tea and coffee around whilst we were setting up - it was most welcome. Thanks also to the ladies handing out new Tesco plastic bags to be used by our customers, to hold goodies won or bought. They came in very handy.
Jessie had a lovely day out thanks to Eileen and Stuart. She met lots of different types of dogs and thoroughly enjoyed herself.
Thank you to Shanel for helping out on the stall, you were a great help. Also well done to Sam for 'accosting' people as they passed by our stall and getting them to buy every single one of our pens, badges and doggy treats.
Dawn managed to disappear when I was taking photographs, I've only ever captured her once and she is denying it is her!!!!
We look forward to being invited back to the Dogs Trust next year.
Gemma
Fantastic News. On 2nd August, after 8 months of patiently waiting, our beautiful GEMMA has found her Forever Loving Home. PDR send her all our hugs and love for a wonderful future
Gemma came to Phoenix Dog Rescue as her owner was taken into care. She is a 9 year old gsd x sharpei lady and is quite the character! Gemma has a lovely playful nature. She is fine with other dogs and has been well trained, but was a bit strong on the lead. We tried her in a harness and she was fine, she didn't pull at all.
Gemma also talks. Ok, she doesn't speak in English, but she mutters to herself, and chats to you. She isn't used to young children so prefers older kids, or none at all. Gemma is an affectionate girl, loves her walks and playing in the garden.
Gems makes a lovely faithful companion to pretty much anyone. She is used to having people around most of the time, and doesn't like to be left for long periods. She is a people dog and likes to have company. She followed the girls around when they were working in the kennels, eg. when they were putting washing out in the washing area she was let out of her kennel without a lead, just to follow the girls around whilst they were pegging it out. She had a little sniff and then when the washing was all hung up they would go back in and Gemma would go straight back to her kennel on her own, no questions asked.
Gemma was a firm favourite with the kennel girls and it was never hard to get volunteers to go out to the paddock to throw a ball for her.
Gemma went to Eileen's house to meet the rabble on 10th July 2010. No way could she get a pic of all of them. Apart from a little kerfuffle when she first went in Gemma was great.
Where have they all gone?
Gemma went to visit Eileen and Stuart again on 13th July 2010 and really enjoyed herself. They took her to the canal which she loved and then Stuart gave her a bath because she was a bit smelly.
This is the Life!
When she was going, Eileen was saying "Gemma has left the building" and she started talking every time she said it........bless her.
Gemma has left the building
On 25 July 2010 Gemma went to Walton Hall Gardens and had a brilliant day. She entered the fun dog show and came 6th in best rescue dog and 2nd in best veteran.
Well done Gemma
I love my rossette
FANTASTIC NEWS - After eight long months of waiting GEMMA went to her LOVING FOREVER HOME on 2nd August 2010.
We are all dancing for joy for you Gems, you so deserve it, however at the same time we will miss you. Good luck,and lots of love and cuddles from us all. We are sure you will get plenty from your new family, you certainly have loads of love to give. Enjoy your new life beautiful girl.
JULY 2010
Merseyside Retired Greyhound Trust
PDR were invited by the Merseyside Retired Greyhound Trust to have a stall at their Fun Dog Show between 10.30a.m - 4p.m on 25th July 2010.
The Show was held at Walton Hall Gardens, Warrington and was a great success. We raised the grand total of £165. Thank you to the Trust Organisers for our invite and to everybody who helped to make it a successful day for us.
Winwick Carnival
We would like to thank the Organisers of the 10th Annual Winwick Carnival for inviting PDR to hold our Teddy Tombola and Doggy and Gift Stalls at their show. It was held on 17th JULY 2010 at the Recreation Ground, Winwick, Warrington between 10.30am - 5pm.
There were 50 stalls and craft displays, fairground rides, arena attractions and a death defying high dive.
However.........Didn't we have a lovely day the day we went to Winwick!!!!!!! - not every show works out the way we would wish it to!!!
What a day! What can I say! In different circumstances it would have been a fantastic day for us, everything was well organised and there was enough activities and exciting events arranged throughout the day, and plenty of stalls, to keep everyone happy.
Probably for the first time ever we were totally organised in setting out the teddies. They were all in the right number order, making it easy for us to find the prizes. However, we should have known it was too good to be true. We were setting up everything else when it started to rain quite heavily - and then came the wind. Not just normal wind, but full blown gale force wind coming straight at us. All three of us ended up hanging onto the first gazebo as the wind was attempting to lift it into the air, even though it was tied down.
We eventually finished setting up, just as there was an announcement coming over the loudspeaker saying 'Oh, there's another gazebo blowing away and the people are running after it. You'll have to run faster if you want to catch it. That's the third one to fly away this morning!'
Shortly after that, there was a horrendous gust of wind which hit us full on. One minute I was holding onto the back of the gazebo, tying the Phoenix poster up to it and Sam was holding onto the front post, and the next minute we were sailing through the air with both gazebos and one of the tables attached. They all landed upside down on the roofs of our cars, with Sam and me caught up in the mess - the gazebos scratching the side of Jules's car! (to join the other scratches). It happened so fast, Sam and I didn't know what had hit us. It was rather scary!
It took at least 10 people to be able to get both gazebos, which we'd joined together, and the table, off the roofs of our cars and get them upright, back over the tables which had been set up, whilst the wind was still attempting to blow both gazebos (with the table attached!!!!) back into the air.
Once we had got set up again we realised that one of the gazebos was dangerously damaged so it had to be removed again and demolished. When we separated the two gazebos, the water that had built up from the latest heavy downpour, in the join of the two roofs, poured in on us - oh what fun!
Everything had to be then squashed under the second gazebo. Before we had time to finish, the heavens opened again. So we hurriedly had to cover everything up with the side pieces of material from the damaged gazebo.
There was then hope for a while. The rain went off. A few people appeared on the showground. Things were looking up. Activities that had been delayed on the showground, due to the weather, were started. We took £2 on the Teddy Tombola. We had been at the showground since 9.15 a.m. and it was 12p.m. by this time.
However, it didn't last for long, there was more torrential rain whilst someone was looking at the goods on the stall. Imagine the scene, a lady talking to us and trying to shelter (no shelter left because of the way the tables had had to be squashed in!!!) and me trying desperately to cover up all the goods and teddies again before they got too wet!!!! Our information board blowing away - Sam went running after it.
Jules and me then had to hang on to the sides of the curtains and legs of the gazebo with our hands and feet, pushing our body weight against the edges to stop the legs being lifted out of the ground again, whilst attempting to keep the covers over all the teddies and doggie goods. Good job we're both double jointed - the game of Twister came to mind! Sam had retrieved the information board and was now attempting to bang down the pegs on the back legs, getting soaked again, whilst we were still playing Twister!
It was at this time that we noticed that this gazebo was also damaged beyond repair and that finished us off.
We all decided that we'd had enough. We were all near to tears. We had taken the grand total of £5 and made a loss of £150 (2 gazebos!!) which the Organisers kindly disposed of for us, as the damaged gazebos would not have gone back in the car, the distorted shape they were in.
We had almost packed up when another PDR member arrived and she helped to hold the gazebo down, to stop it blowing away, whilst we finished off. We had to dry everything before we put it away, as no matter how hard we tried we couldn't keep everything dry. The teddies were drying all over the house for a week.
One of the Organisers couldn't apologise enough to us for everything that had happened, but as we said, it wasn't their fault, they were not in charge of the weather. The sun did come out for five minutes as we were packing up but it didn't last long. The ironic thing was that the storm clouds just seemed to be over Winwick because as we drove away from the ground, about 5/10 minutes away the sun was shining and we were told that it hadn't rained at all back home.
We had to be led off the field by one of the Organisers walking in front of our cars, as we were not supposed to drive off the field until 5.30 p.m. Yeah, right! It was 1.30 p.m when we left.
We said we'd laugh about this the following day - well maybe not the following day - try the following week perhaps.
We found out later from one of our volunteers that the rain did eventually go off and the sun did come out after we left and the show was a success. We are so pleased for the Organisers as they had put a lot of effort and hard work into arranging the day. However, we do not regret calling it a day when we did, too much had happened to us and we were just about clinging on to our sanity. Tomorrow is another day as the saying goes!
From 3 soggy, frustrated, exhausted, traumatised, but not totally beaten, PDR fund-raisers.
Lilford Animal Welfare Summer Fayre
PDR would like to thank Adele of Lilford Animal Welfare for her invite to the Summer Fayre/Companion Dog Show on Sunday at Astley Tea Rooms.
Once again our Teddy Tombola was a huge success and all the fund-raising will help towards the cost of the veterinary care of our dogs. We raised £163.
It wasn't just the people who enjoyed our stall, Bev's Deerhound, Duffy, made himself at home too!
I've got my eye on you
Gemma was an absolute star and loved all the attention. She had a lovely day out. It's a shame she is still waiting for her forever home.
I'm loving my day out Was it something I said?
I'm speaking, please give me a treat.
JUNE 2010
A fantastic amount of £118 was raised by our PDR Volunteers at Risley Moss Nature Reserve on 27th June 2010. Thank you to the Organisers for their invite and to everyone who contributed to our stall and Gift Tombola.
Canine Capers
We would like to thank the Organisers of Canine Capers for the invite to their event at Thatto Heath Park, St. Helens on Saturday 19th June 2010. We had another successful day and raised £163.
As well as Canine Capers and the Dog Warden, there were also other dog-loving charities and organisations present. There was a Fun Dog Show and a fantastic Dog Display, which included dogs jumping through hoops of fire. We were told that some of these dogs were from Rescues.
Our stall drew a lot of attention and the Teddy Tombola and Gift Tombola were a great success.
Sam was also excellent going around the park selling goods from our stall and collecting donations. He took Gemma with him and she drew a lot of attention. Sam and Gemma helped to raise a lot of money, well done to you both.
Gemma had a wonderful day out. She had loads of attention at our stall as people read her story on our news board and we were then able to introduce her to them. Hopefully someone liked her enough to be considering giving her a forever loving home.
Gemma loved the walks - she was walked with a harness and she didn't pull at all, even when Sam (aged 12) walked her. She enjoyed running off lead but wouldn't go too far from us and came back when called. She loved meeting all the people and dogs and enjoyed playing with Sam.
Even the loud bangs of the guns going off in the arena during the dog demonstration did not upset her. Nothing seemed to bother her. She was very laid back and loved our company.
Gemma is such a sweetheart, we cannot understand why she hasn't found that special home yet. She wants to be loved and she has so much love to give. It was our privilege to have her with us.
Hale Village Carnival
On Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th June 2010 at Hale Village Carnival, L24 we held our Phoenix Dog Rescue stall.
The Show was a huge success. The weather was beautiful on Saturday and we sold lots of Doggie items and other goods and on Sunday the Teddy Tombola was very popular as usual. Unfortunately the weather wasn't as kind and the rain became too heavy at 4 p.m.on Sunday so the Organisers had to call a halt to the Show. However, everybody had thoroughly enjoyed themselves over the two days and there was certainly plenty of entertainment provided for all ages.
The theme for this year's Carnival was 'The Vikings Are Coming' and the Carnival Committee invited about 300 'VIKINGS' along to carry out historic re-enactments from a Dark Age' period in History.
Anyone interested can visit Hale's web site to see the photographs taken over the two days.
MAY 2010
We all want to say a massive thank you to 9 year old Faye Ewan for taking it upon herself to organise a sponsored dog walk and raising £40!!! We are so proud of you Faye.
A GREAT SUCCESS STORY
At long last, it is our privilege to introduce you to POPPY.
Poppy came to Phoenix Dog Rescue last year as her owner was very poorly and could no longer look after her.
Poppy is a lovely natured Springer Spaniel, who is now 6 years old. When she came to us she was suffering terrible Dry Eye. Her eyes were constantly full of awful green gunk, and the drops she was on were just not working.
Our rather fabulous vets got in touch with a canine eye specialist. Together they tried to find drops that would work for her. They (and we) spent months trying to find what worked. The girls at kennels were constantly either cleaning her eyes, or putting in medication! Even with everyone's hard work, her eyes were not responding to the medication.
So, we were given 3 options.
First option - PTS, (obviously not)
Second option - do nothing but try to keep her comfortable - and, when she went totally blind - remove her eyes.
Third option - very expensive operation that only had a 40% success rate.
We chose option 3 the best choice to give her the chance she deserved......
So, in November 2009, Poppy moved into foster care with Wendy and got ready for her op.
It has all worked. All healed! Poppy is no longer in pain, no longer has eyes full of gunk, no longer needs drops every few hours! She is partially sighted, due to scar tissue build up, but this should not get any worse. She does have some sight and really copes incredibly well! She is a happy, sweet-natured, loving little lady. She is great with other dogs, doesn't know cats, and is fine with all people.
So we are pleased to announce that Poppy has now been able to find her Forever, Loving Home in May 2010 and is living the life she deserves.
APRIL 2010
Thank you again to Andy, Teri and Jan from Noahs Ark Pet Supplies in Widnes Market, for raising more money for us from their Easter raffle.
Teri Andy
We are pleased to announce the winners of our
Easter Bonnet Competition
The winning puppy is KOFI
The winning Junior is Piper
The winning family is Amber & Mary
Other winning pet is Mojo Cat
The winning Oldie is Patsy
FEBRUARY 2010
Thank you to Manchester Dog's Home for the invite to join them at their Fun Dog Show at My Pet Stop in Denton on 7th Feb 2010. We had a great day out.
2009
DECEMBER 2009
We would like to give a big thank you to Andy, Teri and Jan from Noahs Ark Pet Supplies in Widnes Market, for raising money for us by raffling a giant Tigger in time for Christmas 2009.
NOVEMBER 2009
We had a great day at our PDR Christmas Fun Dog Show and Fundraising Day which was held in association with Leigh and District Animal Welfare Rescue on 29th November 2009 at Croft Riding Centre. It was lovely to meet so many dogs (and their owners of course!!!!!). 'Santa Paws' was a great success with many dogs having their photographs taken. Thank you to our Photographer and Santa Paws himself.
OCTOBER 2009
Thank you to Angie for inviting us to the Tail Tapping Antics Open Day on Sunday, 4th October 2009. We had a lovely and informative day out.
SEPTEMBER 2009
What a fantastic day out we had at the Warrington RSPCA's Fun Dog Show held at Taylor Park on Sunday 20th September 2009.
AUGUST 2009
We were invited to hold our stall outside Jolley's Pet Store in Manchester on Saturday 29th August 2009. It was also a good opportunity to make people aware of the work of PDR and the work of other Rescues in general. We look forward to returning soon.
JULY 2009
The Potty About Pets event held on Saturday 18th July 2009 at Walton Hall Gardens in Warrington gave us a chance to meet more people and their gorgeous dogs. The snakes were extremely long. I wouldn't fancy meeting one of them in the dark!!!
The £100 we raised will go towards our latest, very large, vet bill. Thanks to everyone who visited our stall.
The Leigh & District Animal Welfare Summer Fayre at Astley Tea Rooms in Astley on Sunday 5th July 2009 was a great day. Even the weather was good to us (except for one downpour!). We raised a magnificent £192! Thank you to all who contributed.
JUNE 2009
Thank you to everyone who came to our Summer Fayre at Parklands Club in Widnes on 21st June 2009. We raised a fantastic amount of over £200!
APRIL 2009
We had a lovely day at the My Pet Stop Charity Day in Denton on 19th April 2009. It was lovely to meet so many lovely people and their dogs. We raised £92. Thank you everyone.
MARCH 2009
PDR would like to thank Celia, Anita, Tracey, Cath, Sylvia and Margaret for their spectactular fundraising efforts! This group raised £350 for the Phoenix Dogs! We can't thank the ladies enough, well done, and again, thank you so much!
2008
DECEMBER 2008
We held a stall at the Warrington RSPCA Christmas Fayre on Sunday 14th December 2008. We raised £80. Thank you to everyone who came to see us.
NOVEMBER 2008
Thank you to Leigh & District Animal Welfare for inviting us to have a stall at their Christmas Fayre. It was lovely to meet you all.
OCTOBER 2008
Our Autumn Fayre which was held on Saturday 25th October 2008 at Canal Walk, in Runcorn was a great success. We managed to raise over £180!!!!
Thank you to everyone who supported us and a special thank you to the other Animal Rescues who held stalls with us.