42 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | APRIL 2 020 CHARITY SPOTLIGHT {giving back} THE STORY In 1998, Joyce Hubler, a retired detective from the Phoenix Police Department, did some sleuthing that changed thousands of dogs’ lives. She had gotten her first Golden Retriever, Lucy, the year before and learned that many Goldens were being abandoned and put down in shelters. Why was this the fate of so many of the popular breed? Hubler discovered that many people weren’t prepared to handle a dog that would grow large, shed and incur medical expenses, so they simply gave up their dogs. Rescue A Golden of Arizona helps beloved breed HEARTS OF GOLD By Karen Werner

“ Many people were buying puppies, not realizing they would become large, energetic dogs that require a lot of grooming and healthcare.” To help, Hubler started rescuing Goldens from shelters, grooming and rehabbing them, then finding them new homes. Once the work became more than she could handle alone, she enlisted help from friends and people in her network. Through a lot of hard work, they established Rescue A Golden of Arizona as a nonprofit organization in October 1998. THE CAUSE At the time Rescue A Golden of Arizona was launched, Golden Retrievers were the second most popular breed of dog, a distinction that remains today. “Many people were buying puppies, not realizing they would become large, energetic dogs that require a lot of grooming and healthcare,” said Heather Marcom, president of Rescue A Golden of Arizona. The organization educates the public on the traits of these outgoing, eager-to-please canines. For instance, they are easy to train and make great family dogs, but their playful, puppyish behavior makes outdoor play a priority. “For a breed built to retrieve waterfowl for hours on end, swimming and fetching are natural pastimes,” Marcom said. Engage with Green Living Magazine Check out the latest issue to see what is happening next at Green Living Magazine and see how you can be a part of the next issue! Our March issue was all about sustainable living and saving the planet! Be a part of our network! Subscribe to stay up-to-date with eco-trends! https://greenlivingaz.com/ Join us at our Eco Events: https://greenlivingaz.com/arizona-events/eco-events/ Advertise your eco-conscious business: https://greenlivingaz.com/advertise/ It is more than just a magazine, it’s a way of life. @greenlivingaz Green Living AZ Connect with us on social media!