Windermere Rancho Mirage agents Terry Nelson and Art Gregoire (71691 Highway 111) were recognized for their years of support for Save A Pet, a private, non-profit pet rescue organization based at Dillon Road and Palm Drive.  “Save A Pet is a non-kill shelter receiving up to 50 requests per day for animal adoption services,” explains Terry. “Due to severe budget cutbacks, the county animal facilities have been forced to reduce holding time for most animals to just 3 days before being put down; once an animal is accepted by Save A Pet, they have access to food, shelter, medical care if needed, and they stay until they’re adopted.” Rick Miller, who facilitates Save A Pet adoptions and maintains the Save A Pet website, adds, “Sadly, about 98% of the animals brought to us for adoption are family pets losing their homes along with their owners, who take some consolation in knowing we won’t stop until we’ve found these animals safe new permanent homes.”

Windermere agents are known for their involvement with neighborhood services and events, and Art and Terry are great examples. Recognized for efforts with a number of local organizations, they acknowledge Save A Pet holds a special place in their hearts. One of the ways they’ve shown their support is by hosting fundraising parties at their home, where they have collected donations, pet toys and pet food. “These animals don’t have control over their fates,” says Art. “Imagine a family losing its home, and on top of that, having to give up their cherished pets. We’re just helping these dogs, cats, puppies and kittens get adopted into permanent, loving families.”  So far this year alone, 328 dogs and 191 cats have found ‘Forever Homes,’ and more than 800 animals have been spayed or neutered. The ‘Rusty Award’ plaque was presented to Art and Terry at Windermere’s Rancho Mirage office by Rick Miller. Also on hand were Don Rossignol, Managing Broker, Windermere Rancho Mirage office; Ann Woods, who manages the Save A Pet cattery; and Rusty, Rick’s adopted 3-legged Akita. Rusty, the award’s namesake and a true survivor, subsisted for 7 weeks in the desert before being rescued.

To learn more about Save A Pet or to donate, visit SaveAPetOnLine.org.