Labatt's Anyone?

A non-profit animal rescue organization based in the Olean, N.Y., area is spreading its service into Potter and Cameron counties.

Joyful Rescues is a non-profit organization focused on taking care of dogs and cats that have been cast aside, for whatever reason. With the services of "foster families" and the dedicated work of Joye herself, many of the dogs receive training and nurturing so that they become adoptable.

The organization also teaches responsible pet ownership. It functions entirely on adoption fees and donations. Often, Joyful Rescues works hand-in-hand with the SPCA to care for neglected or displaced pets.

Turock has lost count of the Joyful Rescue success stories, but they continue on an almost daily basis. Contacts for Joyful Rescue adoptions in Potter and Cameron counties are Mary Kelley (274-0917) and Lugene Heimel (274-9493).

This week, Joyful Rescues seeks a home for "Labatts." He's young, male German shepherd and husky mix, age two and one-half, weighing about 65 pounds.

"This guy just cracks me up," Turock said of Labatts. "He grumbles while playing with the other dogs, when he's telling you about his day, when he wants in or out. Grumble, grumble, grumble! He's also a very smart boy."

"He was given up because his owner's home was repossessed and he could not find anything he could afford that would allow his best friend," she added. "Labatts is about perfect. He is gorgeous, doesn't bark much, loves his crate, the other dogs, all people and seems to have great house manners. Okay, maybe he pulls on his leash, but after all, no one is perfect!"

For additional information on Labatts or on Joyful Rescues, Joye can be reached at 716-372-3661. The organization also has a website containing information and profiles of available pets: joyfulrescues.com.