Scanlan: Thomasson is here for all residents, including pets

Imagine waking up to find two scared dogs wandering your neighborhood on a hot spring day.

That happened to our community on May 22, when two young dogs were found with collars, no ID, dragging their leashes. The dogs were well-trained with gentle personalities.

Our neighborhood quickly sprang into action, posting notifications on numerous Pet Finder websites and social media, posting signs on poles, contacting the police and the fire department, etc. Our microchipping research did not provide an answer. The dogs were being cared for by a group of residents; some provided shelter while some provided food, toys and walking.

But the days ticked by. No one claimed the dogs. We were desperate, since the dogs were scheduled to be surrendered to Maricopa County Animal Care and Control on day nine. Finally, a call to Anna Thomasson provided us with a big break. Due to Anna's long-term involvement in the Arizona canine community, she quickly made contact with numerous people in her animal network.

Finally, on day eight, something wonderful happened! Anna found a rescue foster family willing to accept both dogs. Due to Anna's intervention, the dogs – now named Tatum and Shay – are safe, with a brighter future. Our neighborhood is breathing a sigh of relief filled with enormous gratitude for Anna's connections and interventions.

When Anna says she's dedicated to helping our town, she means people as well as our four-pawed little darlings. Thank you, Anna.

P.S. If you are interested in adopting these very well-mannered cattle dog mixes, please contact arizonacattledogrescure.org

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.