Tammy Matson is used to being a caregiver with an open heart. Tammy is a Nurse living in Blaine with her family and 2 dogs, Corky and Abdullah. Tammy has been volunteering with SDR for nearly three years now, and has been involved in various aspects including fostering, transport, publicity, Board of Directors and supply coordination. Even though a new job has made her life even busier, Tammy stresses the importance of staying involved: “I know firsthand how just a little bit of help goes a long way and is appreciated,” emphasizes Tammy. “To these dogs, (volunteering) is very important. SDR is a non -profit organization and it has no paid employees. It’s a great bunch of people who all work together to save dogs’ lives. I'm very proud to be a part of SDR and it always amazes me how many people have opened their hearts and their homes in order to give these dogs a second chance.” Canine family members Corky and Abdullah came to Tammy from SDR. Abdullah was initially a foster. When Tammy took him in, Abdullah was very sick . ”For the first couple of mornings I thought I would wake up and find out that he died. But he didn't. When you read his story you'll see how he pulled through. When I would get home from work I would call his name and he stayed curled up but he started to wag his tail a little at a time. After all that Abdullah went through to survive, I couldn't let him go.”
Her second dog, Corky, was surrendered reluctantly by his elderly guardian, who left in tears.“On the ride home, Corky wouldn’t even look at me,” says Tammy. Within a week, however, Corky found a permanent home with Tammy. He became such a part of the family she couldn’t give him up. Even Tammy’s Mom has become involved, helping with events and caring for dogs if Tammy is away.
Along with other work for SDR Tammy continues to foster additional dogs, though sometimes parting with them isn’t easy. She does this because she believes she can make a difference. “Even if I would have fostered only one dog and found the perfect home. I've made a difference in that one dog’s life,” says Tammy.” Many may have been put down if SDR did not take them in. Saving one dog at a time is how you have to look at it and saving that ONE dog’s life is worth a lifetime of happiness.” We couldn’t agree more, Tammy, and we want to recognize you for what you have done for SDR, and for all the happiness you have given to so many small dogs. 
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