We’re getting word that Solha will likely be transported from Jake’s base to a larger Afghan city this weekend. From there, I don’t have information regarding the remainder of her journey. Not sure how long it will take, the route, or in what conditions she will be kept (though I do know Jake is supplying the crate she will fly in). I have no choice but to assume that because a dog rescue agency is handling this, Solha will be transported safely and humanely. I don’t even know what US airport she will be flying into! Everything is very much in flux at this point, but it seems all but certain Solha will be in Virginia months before Jake.
We held off soliciting donations for Nowzad until we were certain this rescue could happen. So even though this rescue may seem last minute — she could be airborne as of Saturday! — know that Jake has been laying the groundwork for months.
I’ll be sure to keep you posted as details emerge. We’re still not there with our financial goals, but THANK YOU, everyone, who has contributed so far to this rescue. We are getting close! I am consistently amazed by the generosity of (mostly) strangers…and grateful to know that such compassionate, caring and superior people who probably also have great hair read this blog.
Stay tuned…
UPDATE: The fundraiser is over. We have reached our financial goals. If you would still like to make a donation toward rescuing animals in war torn countries, please donate to the animal rescue agency Nowzad directly. They need all the help they can get. Thank you!
All original content © 2012 by Jessie Knadler
{ 18 comments… read them below or add one }
FYI, the donate link only shows up if you access the post from the main page. If you click through to the single post from google reader, none of the stuff on the left-hand side of the pages shows (donate link, link about your book, etc)
Hi Chris: Yes, I know. I’m working on having the button added to the post itself! Thank you!
My hair is typically a knotted, gnarly, frizzy mess that’s at its best adorned with a baseball cap.
But hey, if it makes you feel better…
Just a doggie thought: Jake might want to ship you something that smells like him so Solha feels a bit more at home with you. This will be so cool when it works!
Kirk brings up a good topic. Would you accept collars, bowls, leashes, suggestions for Solha : June introductions, etc? Happy to MYOB, but the thought does occur…
This is such exciting news!!!!
this dog is like a super ninja…are you going to be ok on the farm for a few months before Jake comes home? What does her name mean?
Yep, she’ll be on the farm for a few months before Jake comes home….which should be very interesting. Her name means PEACE in Dari.
Keep us updated, ok Jessie?
Absolutely!
Jessie, I don’t know how any of this stuff works with regards to which airport she’ll be arriving. I assume it will be some major hub? But if it helps any, I live not far from Chicago-O’hare, and I’m more than willing to assist with a pick-up and/or doggie relay from this part of the country. My own beloved mutt dog came to me via a puppy relay of internet strangers, and I’m more than happy to pay that forward!
Also, I have contacts in the Virginia/Mid-Atlantic region that might be willing to assist with transport as well. My dog was relayed from SW Virginia up to New Jersey, and I flew him home from there. If you need any help in that regard, just shoot me an email and I’ll sound the alarm!
We’re in – my husband and I donated via PayPal this a.m. The two of us have transported dogs for a national rescue, if the international routine is similar, Solha will be spending lots of time in and out of her crate. Please have Jake label the crate, something to the effect of “Dog Is Escape Artist.” An item of clothing that smells like Jake in the crate couldn’t hurt. Are you ready on the receiving end? A large floor crate for crate training would be a plus; I like a nice strong halter versus a collar for newly-transported dogs. Something that smells like Jake on the receiving end could calm Solha down. All of you will be confused, overstimulated and wound up. Maybe something from the vet to calm Solha, something like Valium for yourself… If you’re looking for another writing project, Jessie, the Adventures of Solha in children’s book form could be a winner. With proceeds going to help the rescue involved. Positive vibes to you all.
Great advice! I forwarded your comment onto Jake.
Hey Jessie,
I was going to donate next week, during payday – but I decided to give now, since she might be coming to you as early as Saturday!!! I can’t do much. But I figure that every little bit helps. Let us know where you end up with donations.
is the fence going to be ready by Saturday?! I’m a little worried….she should be microchipped. maybe the rescue is doing that for u, or any vet can do it. another idea is to let your rural neighbors know the dog is coming – she might be attracted to chickens, sheep, etc. she is a wild dog at heart it sounds like! she is super cute. I hope she arrives soon.
Just donated and put a link to this up on my Facebook. Got another donation just now from it– so happy to help and can’t wait to meet Solha soon!
Congratulations on meeting the goal! Also, don’t forget that Solha probably hasn’t been around many children so there may be some “pack order” issues with a dog that was basically raised feral…
You know, this would be a really great case for the Dog Whisperer. You might want to contact him. I know alot of people object to his methods, but if there is anyone who can teach a dog how to be an American dog, it is Cesar.
Give Solha a pat from us as Smiling Dog Farm!
Kitty
Ps. He’ll be speaking in Norfolk VA on April 7th…