For those of you who do not know me, my name is Christine Engels Nystrom. Just like most of you, I am an animal advocate whose heart and soul have been invaded by these animals who are so in need. When I heard of Aimee and her story I felt very compelled to help her anyway I can.
Many of you know Aimee and her story, others this may be the first time learning of the atrocities she endured. Aimee was originally brought in as a stray to the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Long Island, with an unknown history and horrible wounds on her back and legs. It was later determined that she most likely had some form of acidic substance thrown on her. She spent about 1 year at the shelter before she went into foster for roughly 8 months. Her foster family adored her but they had to move and could not take her. Aimee was then taken to another rescue upstate, that to say the least was not the best place for her or any dog. Once again, she endured a level of neglect that was unfathomable. Her living conditions were uninhabitable and she spent the majority of her day locked in a crate for over a year. Thankfully, the wonderful people of Ulster County Canines rescued Aimee from that hell and brought her back to their facility in Saugerties, NY. Aimee was given the love, care, guidance and attention she so badly deserved. After a couple of months it became apparent to the UCC staff that Aimee would benefit from a board and train program where she will be given a lot of one on one attention.
Diane Bonsignore, Owner of Allied Dog Training, has been moved by Aimee's story as well. It was decided that she is going to Diane for training because she has been living in higher population shelters for the past 6 years, she has been with UCC for 6 months. While they make improvements on on the facility, she will get low traffic accommodations with a specialty trainer. Diane and her staff will help bring out her best potential for a home of her own. Throughout Aimee's training she will be given the time needed to decompress, the tools to trust again, and the training to be the best girl we all know she can be. I think all of us who know and love Aimee want nothing more for her to be adopted by a family who will give her a home filled with love. She is such a sweet, affectionate dog who has lost her way. It is like she has become institutionalized! My wish is for her to never see the inside of a shelter again. I know it would mean the world to Aimee if we could come together and raise the funds needed to secure her spot at Allied in February. She is worth it and I know she is going to thrive! Please donate any amount you can, it all adds up. Also do not forget to hit SHARE! We are very far from our goal but we all know this girl is worth every penny.
