It was almost eight years ago that I met Rande Levine of Karma Rescue. I was trying to convince my husband that we needed a dog. He was more than reluctant. After weeks of begging and no luck in budging him, I decided that I needed to start volunteering with a local dog rescue to get my puppy fix. I did an Internet search and found about a dozen rescue organizations in or around Culver City. After sending out emails asking how to become a volunteer, Levine was the first (and only person) to respond. She was excited and enthusiastic, and I couldn’t wait to get started. The next weekend, I went to the local pet store where Karma Rescue held their adoption events.
Karma Rescue saves at-risk dogs from the high-kill Los Angeles area shelters. Karma provides each dog a new beginning and finds them safe and suitable permanent homes through adoption, advocacy and education. Karma Rescue is a nonprofit 501c3, tax-deductible organization. I love that they rescue dogs that might be overlooked by others: senior dogs, blind dogs, power breeds and dogs with medical needs.
Like most rescuers, Levine has been an animal lover her whole life. Her first dog was a beagle named Rufus. Levine said, “Rufus and I did everything together. Raising him on my own was one of the greatest moments of my life. It humbled me. It taught me to give unconditionally. When I would look into his sweet eyes, I’d think of how many more wonderful animals like Rufus there are out there. Being involved with rescue for some time, I see it every day. I walk into the shelters and see those same eyes as Rufus has. I see the longing and the love these animals have for us. I see how they can add so much to our lives. Not all animals have this chance to teach the world their message. So I started Karma Rescue to try to get as many of them the chance they deserve to help better our lives by just being in them.”
Walking into the pet store on that first day was overwhelming for me. I didn’t know anyone. There were so many dogs. There was so much activity. Levine must have sensed I was a new volunteer because she immediately came over, introduced herself and handed me a leash. Little Girl was the first Karma dog I ever met. She was absolutely adorable and I had a blast taking her for a walk. I spent the rest of the day walking about 15 different dogs. I really felt great being able to give these dogs some love and care. I left with the promise of returning the following Saturday.
Karma Rescue welcomes all those who want to help animals. There is a job for everyone, young or old. Adults volunteer to transport the dogs to the adoption events or walk them I like I started off doing. Many become Guardian Angels.
Levine said, “The Guardian Angel Program was created to help promote and stimulate adoption of our dogs. This program is for those volunteers who want to spend more time with the dogs outside of regular adoptions as well as learn more about the rescue process.”
Kids are welcome too, with a parent or guardian in tow. The kids I’ve seen have such a blast helping to fill water bowls, maintaining the dogs’ crates, keeping the dogs supplied with treats and walking some canine friends. I’ve even seen Girl Scout troops come to events to earn their pet badges.
I’m so grateful for Karma Rescue and Levine. Without her, I’d never have met my dog Gabby, who happens to be the best dog ever. Levine does amazing work and I still love volunteering when I can. So, if you have ever thought about becoming a rescue volunteer, you can find out all the details on their website: KarmaRescue.org. Tell them Gabby and Lori sent you.
Lori Fusaro has been voted the best portrait photographer by FoxTV three years in a row. She lives in Culver City with her husband, four cats, and dog. Contact: Lori@FusaroPhotography.com, www.FusaroPhotography.com.