Dog Rescuer Lost Her Home in Colorado Springs Fire

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - June 15, 2013 - PRLog -- When the Black Forest Fire raged through the peaceful community northeast of Colorado Springs, thousands of residents were forced to flee their homes. Hundreds of homes were declared a total loss and at least two people lost their lives, making the Black Forest Fire the most devastating fire in the state’s history.

One family whose home was lost belonged to Theresa Strader, the founder of National Mill Dog Rescue. While Theresa, her family and their 15 dogs were able to evacuate safely, they are now living at the NMDR kennel along with 10 evacuees - including kennel volunteers and families that foster rescued dogs and at least 40 dogs that were displaced by the fire as it continued to spread. Additionally, several RVs and trailers have been set up at the kennels to provide temporary housing until the families can return to their homes or make more permanent arrangements.

“The volunteers at National Mill Dog Rescue are one big family,” said Rudi Taylor. “We share a common bond of loving these rescued dogs and committing ourselves to giving them the best lives possible and at times like this, that bond goes even deeper.”

Rudi Taylor said that since the first evacuation orders were issued, NMDR volunteers began working together to help each other care for families and animals displaced by the fire. "Some of these families are still waiting for news to know if their house is still standing and they need an incredible amount of support. I am so grateful that the NMDR community is able to provide not only a place to stay for these people and the animals they have dedicated their lives to caring for, but also the ongoing emotional support that they will need to move forward once things begin to stabilize.”

NMDR is currently seeking volunteers to help at the kennel and foster families to care for dogs that were displaced by the fire.  Contact information: https://milldogrescue.org/Contact_Us.html

Donations for the dogs at the kennel can be made at this link: https://milldogrescue.org/Donate.html

A fundraiser for Theresa Strader and family was set up at: http://www.youcaring.com/helpthestraderfamily