About Austin Brick Pavers...
A recent episode Animal Planet's Animal Cops
followed the Michigan Humane Society's Detroit agents during the frigid winter of 2002-2003.
In case after case, dogs were chained outdoors in the freezing temperatures. One agent expressed his frustration
that the guardians simply didn't understand that animals, even if they have fur, cannot survive in the open exposure.
The law makes it impossible to seize the animal until three days pass. Unfortunately, these animals won't survive one frigid night, let alone three.
The vision for Helping Houses is to supply quality shelters to animals in need.
The situation must qualify for a Helping House. The animal must be fed and cared for; loved by its guardian(s).
While educating the public is key, we're basically looking for an immediate solution to the misconception that an animal can survive in the open elements.
- The pet's guardian must me financially in need. We do not run any official financial checks; we use the honor system when it comes to need.
- Outside of improper shelter, the animal must be well taken care of. This includes daily food and water, proper grooming, etc.
- The animal must not be used for financial gain or sport. Animals used for fighting, breeding and other trades are not qualified. We believe that a pet is a member of the family, not a source of income.
- The animal must not be abused, physically or mentally. Animals exhibiting physical scars or injuries and those that express fear, panic or aggressiveness toward the guardian may not qualify.
- We are especially partial to animals that are spayed or neutered. If the animal needs the procedure, we may be able to help with transportation, cost, etc.
- If at any time the guardian feels that they do not want/cannot support the responsibility of taking care of the pet, please call. We'll get the pet to a safe and loving home.
- *Special circumstances always occur. Please inquire if you know of a situation where an animal needs help.
Helping Houses' Email Updates
Austin Brick Pavers sends periodic email newsletters concerning
thoughts, news and events we find interesting. We encourage you
to sign up for our free newsletter.
If you currently receive email from Austin Brick Pavers and would prefer to
not to, you may opt out at any time.
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Donations
Helping Houses is just getting started. The primary goal is to get shelter over the heads of
exposed animals. Currently, we're trying to avoid dealing with money. To reach our goal we
need people to get motivated and donate the following ways:
Materials
OSB
Plywood
Home Wrap (Tyvek)
Shingles/Tar Paper
Foam Sheeting
Nails/Screws
Paint
Gas/Phone Cards
Pet Beds
Tie-Outs/Collars
Pet Dishes
Labor**
Cutting
Assembly
Painting
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Storage
For Materials
For Completed Houses
Pickup/Deliveries*
Pickup Materials from Donors
Deliver Materials to Laborers
Deliver Houses to Storage
Deliver Houses to Animals
Services
Coordinate Building
Make Calls
Write Thank You-Notes
Legal Guidance
Non-profit Establishment
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*While we hope to get gas card donations, we cannot
reimburse travel expenses. Must have a reliable vehicle suitable for deliveries.
**Must have own tools. Supplies like paint brushes, etc. will be supplied when available.
In an effort to cut down on expenses, Helping Houses cannot be responsible for
insuring its donors. By donating and/or volunteering you accept responsibility for accidents,
incidents and incur any additional costs involved.
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Attention Builders
Are you a builder, contractor or involved in the construction industry? Donate your left-over materials!
Each year, thousands of dollars in building materials are dumped or buried at the end of construction; thousands
of dollars that we can't spend to build Helping Houses. Team up with Helping Houses and earn our endorsement
for use on your website, stationery, etc. Contact us to get involved!
Attention Community Leaders
Do you have a local event, fair, etc? Why not feature a "Helping Houses Clinic" where families, seniors,
organizations, etc. can learn to build a dog house for a good cause! The exercise brings the community together and
creates a sense of unity. Write to inquire about a clinic.
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