Chama and Belen, New Mexico, June 10, 2013 — For Theresa Gorduyn, owner of Belen-based Desert Willow Aussies, the message is clear: Breeders and shelters must work together to promote not only ethical breeding methods, but also to educate the public about the global importance of spay/neuter and foster-to-adopt programs, which in turn can reduce the numbers of companion animals in shelters and give those already in shelters the opportunity to be placed in “forever” homes.
Gorduyn, whose kennel selectively breeds quality Australian Shepherds, has teamed up with the Chama Valley Humane Society (CVHS), directly involving the organization in the upcoming Desert Willow Aussies Reunion, scheduled for June 28-July 2, 2013, in Chama. A portion of proceeds from the event will directly benefit the humane society, which was founded in 1998 and works to place rescued animals into foster homes until they can be adopted or transferred to low- or no-kill shelters.
This reunion of DWA owners will feature an energetic variety of dog activities for owner and canine to enjoy together, including a ride on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in Chama and education about traveling with pets. Saturday, June 29, “Festival Day”, is open to the public, and portions of proceeds and all donations from the events of this day will be donated to CVHS. Festival Day runs from noon to 4:30 p.m. at Chama’s Elkhorn Lodge. Events include agility, Frisbee and flyball demonstrations, freestyle dance routines, obedience/training workshops, music, food, shopping and a Native American dance display.
Media representatives are invited to attend Festival Day. Photos taken by media outlets will be released by DWA and festival participants for immediate use if desired. Various training and animal health experts will be on hand to answer questions and provide requested information. For more information about the event and/or the DWA-CVHS collaboration, please contact Theresa Gorduyn: Phone: (505) 565-5665;
Email: DesertWillowHolistic@yahoo.com; Website: www.desertwillowaussies.com
About Desert Willow Aussies:
Desert Willow Aussies (DWA) offers double-registered AKC and ASCA purebred Australian Shepherds. It vigorously supports spay-neuter of all adopted dogs and operates an in-house program to “re-home” any DWA animal whose living situation changes, requiring it to be placed into a new long-term home. DWA works with a variety of holistic-minded veterinarians to gather and relay information about nutrition and general health for companion animals of all breeds, and helps keep the public informed on pet food recalls and other potential health hazards.
