About Me
HotDiggityPaws was started in June 2006 so I could raise funds to help me rescue and foster Cocker Spaniels. I've fostered 22 dogs in the last 4 years and currently have 1 foster (Lil Girl). I ended up adopting 3 of my fosters (Houston, Oreo and Lady Blue).
Growing up, my parents wouldn’t let me have a dog so my stuffed animals were my pets. Once in college, I took my food money one month and bought the cutest Cocker Spaniel puppy, Coco. I’m a sucker for sad eyes….. Coco was the focus of my life and I loved him dearly. Three years later I brought home another puppy, Misty, to complete my family. We changed jobs together, moved together and grew up together. Sadly, Coco died of heart problems at a young age. Misty would howl for him and I missed him terribly so I came home with another puppy, Gizmo.
Over the years, I realized how many homeless dogs were being euthanized – even purebred dogs, so I wanted to help. About two years ago, I started fostering for a rescue group, CockerSpanielAdoptionCenter. I pay out of my pocket for trips to the vet, food, medicine expenses, and transporting for the rescue group. It is a responsibility that I enjoy.
In 2005, I fostered 12 dogs – that was a LOT of work BUT such a wonderful feeling to see them adopted. My full time job (not related to dog rescue) pays my mortgage and monthly bills. Luckily I have a dog friendly boss who allows me bring in a dog in occasionally. I set up this site to raise additional funds so I can continue to rescue, foster and save lives. I would love to be a stay at home doggie mom but my lottery ticket number hasn’t won yet.
I did adopt three of my fosters. One was an 11 year old Cocker, Houston, dumped by his family at a kill shelter. Next is a very shy Cocker, Oreo, who doesn’t seem to bond with other people. My most recent addition is 11 year old Lady Blue. She was left at a kill shelter. Don't people know older dogs don't stand a chance at these shelters? Their sad eyes got me too. I enjoy every minute of their company and spend as much time as I can with them. I even have a webcam set up so I can watch them from work. Sadly, Misty’s spirit gave up recently and she let me know she was ready for Rainbow Bridge. On May 9, 2006, she went peacefully in my lap. My fight to save dogs will still go on because my life would not have been fulfilled without the unconditional love from Coco, Misty, Gizmo, Houston, Oreo, Lady Blue and the many fosters.