Ayla

Wide eyed and looking a bit apprehensive is Ayla.

Her fears are understandable. Only a baby, this sweet, 6 month terrier mix was secured to a 3 foot heavy gauged steel chain and padlock. Her shelter from the sun and rain was a wire crate with a board on top. She curled inside an old rubber tire trying to avoid the biting flies. A bowl that couldn't be reached contained dirty water. She coughed intermittently because her collar was too tight. This is what RSVP volunteers discovered when following up a phone call by a concerned neighbor. In addition to dog rescue and adoption, RSVP has a unique Community Outreach program. It is a hands-on, grass-roots program whereby volunteers visit those neighborhoods where dogs are kept outside at all times. They reach out to owners and offer assistance by providing basic care for the dogs, including food, shelter, neutering and medical attention. They visit the dogs regularly, year-round, in inclement weather, cleaning yards and providing simple comforts.

Ayla was scheduled to go into heat for the first time. She was going to be bred and her puppies sold – an unfortunate fate that befalls so many dogs in similar situations. Over the next few visits our RSVP volunteer convinced the owner to surrender Ayla. She was thin and had never been to a vet. Ayla was examined by Dr. Lacchar of the Riverhead Animal Hospital and is now up-to-date on her shots. She is scheduled to be spayed and is waiting for someone to offer her a life she might have never known.

Ayla is small, weighing about 30 lbs. and is brindle with white markings. She has been showered with love from the staff and volunteers and has responded in kind. It's been a rough journey for Ayla but she has made it this far with the help of RSVP. She just needs you now to welcome her home. Please call (631) 728-3524.