Who is Saving Who: A Heartfelt Look at Animal Rescue in Coachella Valley
- Kathy Condon
- Aug 19
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 16
How many times have you walked through your door only to be greeted by your dog with boundless joy? I bet it’s every time. Dogs don’t have a concept of time. If you leave for five minutes, they welcome you as if you’ve been gone for days. If you’re a dog lover, you’re likely smiling right now. There’s truly no better welcome. (Though I do wonder how they know when it’s time for food. 😊)
Our Coachella Valley Animals Need Your Help
My Arrival
Recently, I was invited to a taping for a New Media Campaign, “Who is Saving Who.” It was a Saturday morning when I made my way to BG Plaza in Palm Desert. Upon arrival, I parked and walked in, greeted by the sight of two dogs with their owners, leashed and ready for action. Yes, I know what I just wrote: let’s face it, when a dog is on a leash, they often do the leading.
As I peeked through the glass doors, I saw a blue and white screen, a cameraman, and a big smile from Silva Mirzoian. She had invited me and was the director and organizer alongside Lindi Biggi and other animal advocates for the upcoming media campaign.
Silva met me at the door, and my learning curve began immediately. She mentioned they were wrapping up a segment about Marie Marcinko. Marie had fostered over 200 dogs and was standing in front of the screen with an adorable small white dog. This little guy wore a collar that proudly announced, “I’m a boy!”
Interviewing a Foster Mom
It takes a special person to foster over 200 dogs and then let them go. I asked Marie, Is it hard to let a dog go that you have fostered? She replied, Fortunately, I have been doing this for a long time. As a volunteer for *Loving All Animals, I’m trusted to determine whether the foster dog I’m caring for is a good match for the people I interview as potential forever homes
As a result, it’s always a good feeling to know the owner and their home are a good match. It’s rare for me to turn down a new owner, but I do if I don’t feel the chemistry is right or if the new location isn’t what the dog needs. Sometimes, potential owners don’t feel it’s a good fit, and that’s okay too.
I understand her perspective well. As a dog sitter, I care for a border collie in people’s homes. Without a large backyard, he wouldn’t have the chance to burn off energy through activities like frisbee flying. This could be detrimental to both the dog and its owner.
Marie emphasized, Ultimately, I am the fiduciary for the dog—responsible for ensuring they have a good, happy home.
Riverside County Department of Animal Services
Next, Jill Fussner and Kim Licht introduced two beautiful mixed-breed dogs. Their names were Jake and Blake. They had been in the shelter for 210 days and were scheduled to be euthanized. You may be surprised, as I was, to learn that Riverside is considered a no-kill county.
These dogs were stunning and clearly craving attention. They welcomed our affection with open paws, especially enjoying my long nails running along their backs.
According to Renee Coffey, volunteers like Jill and Kim are essential for managing the growing population of dogs and cats. Volunteers help by putting vests on the animals that say “Adopt Me.” They then take the dogs out into the community, walking around malls or any gathering places. This serves three purposes: the dogs get exercise, they receive attention, and it shows they are available for adoption.
It was evident that Jill and Kim are passionate about saving these dogs. They each devote one day a week to this cause and have been doing so for years. As a volunteer, you can choose your hours. It’s a perfect way to be around dogs without the commitment of being a caretaker 24/7.
Palm Springs Animals Who Rescue Who: A Heartwarming Example
Bing, a beautiful 6-year-old husky, was once on the list to be euthanized within hours. Despite this, he was incredibly healthy and bright. A couple received a call about Bing’s impending fate.
It was love at first sight for Silva Mirzoian and Michael Marchi, residents of Palm Springs. Bing welcomed their embrace and, during a short walk, did everything right. He had chosen his new family.
Today, Bing happily lives in Palm Springs. He has a cozy bed and enjoys watching the street action from his home. Recently, he even flew first-class to Maui, where he explored and played with curious goats, enjoying the occasional rain of the Hawaiian Islands.
What Can I Do as an Individual to Help?
Here are some ways you can contribute:
Volunteer your time; funds are always appreciated.
Blankets and towels are always needed.
Spread the word to anyone considering adopting a dog or kitten. Encourage them to visit a shelter to find their new companion.
For an overview of the shelters in Riverside County, check out www.Passion4Animals.net.
You can also support them by liking their social media pages:
This Saturday morning adventure was an eye-opener. I learned so much and, yes, I got my dog fix!
Stay tuned for the release of the media campaign “Who Is Saving Who?” scheduled to be released within the next two weeks. You’ll learn more about Palm Springs Animal Rescue Programs.
Kathy Condon is a Travel Writer and Award-winning Author. Her niche is luxury experiences, hidden delights, and communities living in the shadow of larger cities. 760-902-3094 *www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com kathy@kathycondon.net