Oct 9, 2009 5:10 pm US/Central
N. Texas Rescue Kennel Needs Help To Survive
By Arezow Doost
ENNIS (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
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Camp Wolfgang rescues German Shepherds, similar to this one.
CBS
It's known for rescuing those in need.
But now a North Texas kennel needs someone to rescue it.
Camp Wolfgang, near Ennis, is facing tough times in this economy. It is shutting down and its owners now have to figure out what to do with about 150 dogs, mostly German shepherds.
"I would just say I had nothing in my life before this that has generated that dept and intensity of sadness that this forced decision has," said Wally Swanson, who founded Camp Wolfgang.
Swanson opened the kennel 9-years-ago.
He says 90% of the dogs are rescued from shelters and the other 10% come from human failings, "Like death, divorce, bankruptcy or foreclosure," explains Swanson.
It costs about $ 15,000 a month to operate the kennel.
Swanson says in this economy he can't afford it and will shut down by the end of the month.
"We don't have any choice," explains Swanson. "I'm basically broke after funding this for nine years."
Swanson is heartbroken, but on this day a new pet owner is thrilled.
"This is my new dog Sheba and she picked me," says Leah Ray Wroten. "I heard they were closing and I had to come and save a dog."
Wroten drove from near McKinney to get her new dog.
The Butzer family also stopped by the kennel before a weekend trip to Houston.
"We just found the perfect little dog to bring home, and we are picking her up Sunday," says Dan Butzer.
The dogs are spayed or neutered and microchipped for identification, and many have had training.
Swanson insists until all dogs have a home the kennel will be open, even if it's after October.
He admits it's been a tough few weeks, but says he is still hopeful and praying for a miracle.
He tries to keep the mood light around the kennel and laughs, "Maybe I will win the lottery," he said.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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