2006 ASPCA Humane Awards

This dog winner is not a Cocker Spaniel but I loved the story and just had to share it! As you read it think about going to your local shelter and saving a dog...miracles could happen!

The 2006 ASPCA Dog of the Year:

Lucy, a five-year-old street-smart German Shepherd, is more than just a loving companion to the Jennifer and Keith Gorsuch family of Littleton, Illinois. Lucy’s heroic efforts saved her family’s life one night in March when she detected smoke coming from the basement right below where the Gorsuch’s 11-year-old daughter slept. Lucy alerted Jennifer by climbing on the bed and jumping on her chest and barking, and the family, their home and four other dogs—who slept through the incident—were spared.

Originally found on the streets of Chicago, Lucy was awaiting euthanasia at a municipal shelter when a worker from the Quincy Humane Society decided to give her another chance. Months later, after losing her German Shepherd Sassy, Jennifer visited the shelter and fell in love with the barking dog who was going wild in her cage. Lucy had mange and was underweight, but Jennifer says,” I couldn’t have asked for more. She was just misunderstood.”

At the Gorsuch house, pets are a family affair. Jennifer is a library and computer specialist at Webster Elementary School in Rushville, Illinois, and also a 4-H leader. She uses every opportunity to teach children how to care for animals. Keith supports the family affair by helping Jennifer take care of their multiple animal household. Jennifer’s mother is involved in area trap-neuter-release programs for feral cats, and Miranda volunteers at local shelters and assists taking photos of available animals for Petfinder.com. All of the animals at the Gorsuch home are either adopted or rescued, and they all have their own unique story. “People have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of animals. Take that chance and do what is right. To all the people who speak for those without a voice, I thank you,” Jennifer says.