Called to Help

How Sponsorship Introduced Me to CWB – and a New Friend

by Sandy Ebbesen

I had seen sporadic posts from ColliesWithoutBorders in my Facebook feed for a while, but I wasn’t exactly sure what the group did. Then a summertime post got my full

attention: Sponsors were desperately needed to help Ukrainian Collies.

Beyond the horrors I imagined Ukrainians were suffering, I learned of many more. The idea that families might have to choose between caring for themselves or their animals was heartbreaking.

I decided that if I had anything to say about it, one less family would have to worry about that kind of choice. And so, with Flora’s help, I chose my sponsor dog: Mary, a soft-eyed, 9-year-old Sable with the delicate frost of time just beginning to settle on her smiling face. Mary’s “mom” is Elena – and like so many of us who love Collies, she has more than one. Her original three dogs – Mary, Lincoln and Felicia – were joined not long ago by another Collie, Sultan, whom she rescued from starvation. She lovingly calls her pack the “Redhead Gang” because they are all tawny-toned Sables. Even the cat, Lukeria, is a ginger!

With two Collies and two cats in my home, I can relate to the joys and challenges of a big pack. My sponsorship helps Elena afford food and veterinary care for Mary at a time when financial pressures are intense. CWB also provides Thundershirts and calming chews to help all her dogs endure the nighttime attacks.

Elena and I have had a lot to talk about from day one. Something about her has always felt like an old friend. We share pictures of the Collies, highlights (and stress stories) from our days, pictures of our gardens, memories of animal companions past, and of course our mutual hopefulness for peace to come to Ukraine. I have profound admiration for her courage and perseverance. With her unsinkable attitude, she makes it look easy. But I know it is not easy at all.

Happily, Sultan and Lincoln found wonderful sponsors quickly. Felicia is still waiting.

Whether you’re considering sponsoring Felicia or a Collie from a different Ukrainian family, I hope you’ll listen to the tug you feel at your heart. When you sponsor a dog through CWB, your monetary donation is just part of your gift. You’re extending your hand and your friendship. You’re showing your support for Ukraine. And, despite the terrible realities of war, you’re making life a little gentler for a Collie and the family who loves them.