There
are lots of dogs in underserved areas where owners need help,”
she said. “We work right on the spot to improve the life of
the dog.” Although volunteers and donations came slowly at
first, both have increased since Gordy & Friends became a nonprofit
in 2015. “It was a lot of hard work, but it was definitely
worth it,” said Walsh. “More groups are sending us food,
dog supplies and dog toys. We have great volunteers and supporters
who are very good to us.”
Gordy
& Friends appreciate the support as they are tackling a very
big issue. “People do not know that in New York State, with
some exceptions, it is not illegal to leave your dog chained up
outside constantly,” explained Walsh. Therefore, she pointed
out, calling the authorities usually does not change things for
the dog, so that’s why we help instead of calling others to
get involved.
“Gordy & Friends is there non-judgmentally, not to call
the authorities, but to change life for the dog,” said Walsh.
“We would like to see someone go from having a dog that was
an outside dog to having a dog that is now living inside as a member
of the family. We would love to put ourselves out of business!”
Unfortunately,
it doesn’t look like that will happen anytime soon. “It
doesn’t happen overnight, but we are dedicated to the dogs,”
shared Walsh. “We help with spaying and neutering and vet
care. We help by walking these dogs with permission, of course.
We are hoping to model and be a positive example.”
Gordy & Friends also cares about pet owners. “We are not
just kind to dogs but people, too, whether this means helping out
once or regularly,” said Walsh. “We are working toward
a social revolution, closing the gap between what is legal and what
is best for the dog.”
The
disconnect often comes from personal experiences. “If you
were raising chickens in you inside to live in your house with you,
you might think that is ridiculous. Sometimes, owners of a dog that
has always lived outside and who grew up with their dogs living
outside feels the same way.”
Still,
Gordy & Friends plans to continue helping wherever they can.
“We see dogs in all states of need, but one of the saddest
things is a lonely dog; it’s heartbreaking,” stated
Walsh. “We are out there just trying to help. Many times,
people are very open and happy to accept our help, and we are very
thankful. We want to uplift, help and be positive.”
