Lizzie and I put our best paws forward

I had a great weekend recently, highlighted by the Paws for a Cause 5K run and fun walk. I had planned on running in the 5K, but as Saturday morning approached, I didn't have the heart to leave Lizzie at home, so we made our way to the Square to show our support.

Bedford County Spay/Neuter Committee has worked extremely hard at raising funds for the clinic they plan to open this spring. In talking to Bedford County Animal Control Director Michael Gregory last year, I learned how badly this county needs a spay/neuter clinic. I was absolutely stunned to learn that upwards of 75 percent of dogs and cats that come into their custody are euthanized.

That is a problem. And it's a problem that can be corrected.

I would not only urge people to spay and neuter their pets to help control these overwhelming statistics, but more importantly, when you want to shop for a pet, visit the local shelters as an alternative to breeders and especially pet stores.

Gregory and his fellow committee members have held fundraisers prior to Saturday to help raise money for the clinic, they have received private donations through their account at Peoples Bank, and they have received a $10,000 grant through PetSmart Charities. The stipulation to that grant, however, is that the money must be spent by spring, or it goes away, so time is very much of the essence.

Prior to Saturday, the committee lacked just a few thousand dollars to have the funds they need to open (they still need a building, but that's another story). I believe they raised close to $2,300 at Saturday's race, and I commend the supporters who made that happen.

It was wonderful to not only see a really great turnout, but also to be able to share in the celebration with a large pack of pooches during the walk.

If Lizzie were a race horse, she'd be the one who comes out strong at the gate, only to disappoint all those who've bet on her in the final stretch. Neck and neck with our friends Keri Smith and her granddog, Chloe, Lizzie and I started out strong -- in fact, we were in the lead. We got a little confused with the route, however, and caused basically the whole group to walk the wrong course.

But we didn't get too stressed ... a mile is a mile is a mile ... and everyone seemed to have fun. I was just proud of Lizzie for having finished the race, because 13-pound shih-tzus get heavy when you have to carry them. Trust me, I know this from experience, because typically after Lizzie has had enough walking she will literally lay down (no matter where we are), kick out her back feet and rest. She usually picks the most public places to display this stubbornness, and once even chose to lay down to rest in a mud puddle at the Bell Buckle craft fair.

I was proud Liz finished the walk Saturday, as I was proud of the more than 85 folks who came out to support the cause. It's amazing what can happen when people stop talking, and start doing. Because of you, this clinic -- once a mere "idea" in the far distance -- is becoming a reality.

Our four-legged friends thank you, too.

­-- Sadie Fowler is lifestyles editor at the Times-Gazette. Her column, Sadie Says, runs every Thursday. She may be reached at sfowler@t-g.com or 684-1200 ext. 214.