ATLANTA, GA (January 12, 2010) – Responding to the call for assistance, American Dog Rescue has tapped its national animal rescue network to provide financial and logistical support of 15 dogs saved after their Atlanta-based shelter was destroyed by fire yesterday. The caregiver for the dogs, Deborah Wood, is known locally as the “The Dog Next Door Rescuer” and nationally recognized for her passionate efforts in caring for homeless pets.

“I am totally exhausted and I lost everything,” said Wood, founder of The Dog Next Door, a private, home-based canine assistance group. “By profession I am a paralegal, and by passion I have a dog rescue company. I tried to get all dogs out of my house. One is in doggie heaven, one is critical injured, all others, need foster homes today. I will probably be staying with Red Cross as I don’t have family here and few friends.”

A local animal hospital is temporarily caring for the displaced animals. All surviving animals are in good condition and awaiting foster care or adoption.

Arthur Benjamin, founder and president of American Dog Rescue, and the entire ADR team was immediately moved to help someone who “has an incredible heart”. They have reached out across the country to their network of groups like HSUS, No More Homeless Pets, Best Friends and Paws In the City. “We are committed to Deborah and her 15 fosters to see them through this incredible tragedy and find them all places to stay short-term (fosters), and their long-term future (happy homes).”

“Ms. Wood’s story touched my heart deeply,” said Benjamin. “Here is a woman that has devoted her personal time to saving dogs and when disaster struck, her focus has been and remains on the welfare of her sheltered animals. American Dog Rescue has taken a leadership role in gathering national and local support to ensure these animals are given a chance.”

American Dog Rescue (www.americandogrescue.org) is a tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)3 organization committed to finding a home for every adoptable dog in the United States. American Dog Rescue is committed to placing healthy dogs in permanent homes that are the right fit for the animal and its family. Donations to support PROJECT GEORGIA FIRE can be made by visiting www.americandogrescue.org/donate or calling 801-944-3023.