Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary is happy to welcome Cass Walker as its new sanctuary manager. Cass is originally from Long Beach, CA and moved to Las Cruces to be closer to family. He started volunteering with Safe Haven within a month of arriving in Las Cruces. Cass chose to work with Safe Haven not only because of his love of animals, but his strong belief in the SHAS no-kill mission and the work the sanctuary has done for over 20 years.

Cass is the proud father of his 15-year-old son, Julian, who also shares his love of animals. Cass is thrilled to be working with Safe Haven in his new role and hopes to make the sanctuary a warm and welcoming place to all who visit, from the animals, to volunteers and prospective adopters. Cass and Julian recently adopted Brownie, one of Safe Haven’s most beloved resident dogs.

Please make plans to come out to the sanctuary to meet Cass and welcome him to the SHAS family.

Volunteer Spotlight

Monica Arvin is a volunteer dog-walker at the sanctuary and began volunteering after her beloved dog of 14 years passed away. She decided to volunteer for Safe Haven as it made her sad to think of homeless dogs that did not have toys, beds or families to love them. Monica wanted to be a better person by giving back the love she had received from her dog to the sanctuary dogs. “Knowing that I make a difference in the lives of the dogs I walk is my favorite part of volunteering”.

Monica and her husband Alan moved to Mesilla from Monterey, CA to be closer to her parents. Monica and Alan had adopted their dog, Bee, from the SPCA. After Bee died at 14, Monica decided she did not want another dog. However, after she met Tas, a cattle dog mix at Safe Haven, she knew they were meant to be together. Monica fell in love with Tas the moment he put his paw on her leg as she brushed him. Monica says that although she rescued Tas, she considers herself to be the lucky one because Tas chose her.

A Family Vacation: Pet Travel Tips

By Marsha Franke

After battling spring winds and allergies, summer rewards you with water parks, barbeques and vacations. For those of you with well-behaved dogs, traveling with your pet completes family vacation time. Before launching your journey, you may want to consider these suggestions. Probably, you would not embark on an excursion unless healthy and eager. Make certain your pet’s physical condition qualifies him as well. Obtain an updated vet certificate illustrating inoculations. Also, make sure your dog has been given heartworm prevention medication. Depending on your destination, be proactive in protecting your furry companion from other health hazards. Always provide proper identification for your pet, including updated microchip registration.

A few days before you leave, check again with your hotel/motel/lodge to ensure pets are accepted. Occasionally, policies change after you have reserved lodging. If driving to your vacation spot, it is important your animal travels in a durable carrier/crate, which will protect him in transit. When you reach your location, the crate will provide a safe place for your pet as well. Of course, you have packed a few of your dog’s favorites {blanket, chew toy} to assure his comfort. Finally, when driving long distances, break the routine with frequent stops. Both you and your pet will benefit. Perhaps you prefer flying to your destination. How will your dog fly? Checked baggage? Passenger cabin? For detailed policies regarding animal transport, it is essential to investigate before booking. Transporting a dog as checked baggage will require an airline approved carrier that is sturdy and well ventilated. A small pet in a carrier may travel in the passenger cabin. However, you must tuck the carrier under the seat in front of you. Check with fellow travelers/dog owners who have experienced air travel with their pups. Their experiences may help you avoid vacation woes.

Wherever and however you wander with your pet companions, planning and preparation will enrich your recreation. You should return from vacation refreshed, relaxed and replete with family memories. Bon Voyage!

Volunteer Opportunities

The sanctuary is in need of volunteer help in all areas. If you can spare a few hours on a consistent basis, our manager will be glad to match you with an available position. Please visit our website to fill out or print a volunteer application. Volunteers are the backbone of Safe Haven! For more information on this rewarding opportunity, contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Tricia, at (575) 805-5338 or tricia@shaspets.com.

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