The Illinois Waddle – what a weekend!

This is my very first attempt at using a blog – it’s our first step into the future of the web.  This will give you a forum where you can ask any question you want about GABR, its operation and its future.  Have a question about an event – ask it here.  Do you have a financial question? – ask it here.  Our group is as transparent as any animal rescue group in the country.  This will simply make us even more accessible.

My first comment has to be on this weekend’s Illinois Waddle.  It requires so much planning and time from many, many volunteers.  Each year I wonder if I have the energy for another.  Then I see this and I know exactly why we all do it –

Waddle Lineup

There is no greater sight than the beginning of the parade.  Everyone in Dwight waits for the Bassets to “March” and so do I.

I look forward to your comments and questions.  Do you have an idea for changes?  Would you like to volunteer?  Are you fluent in Twitter, Facebook, MySpace?  If you are, I need to hear from you.  GABR will have a major presence on these sights starting now.

I look forward to your comments.  Thanks for being a part of Basset rescue.

12 Responses to “The Illinois Waddle – what a weekend!”

  1. scoobyqueen says:

    We had a great time at the Bash on Saturday. We couldn’t make the Waddle this year, but I was SO happy we could be there on Saturday. This is probably my favorite day of the entire year :) Nothing makes me happier than seeing the cutest pups in the world all gathered in one happy spot. Thank you so much for all of your efforts throughout the year preparing for the Waddle and helping out all of the Bassets in need. Is there a tally on how much money was raised this year..? I tried to find it on the website but didn’t see it.

  2. HoundDogMom says:

    We attend this years Bash/Waddle. As usual a good time was had by us and our hounds. We love the stories and snacks that we get while camping with the hound group. Marshall is even remembers the bassets during the camp fire. They always get a little snack while we have hot dogs. We look foward to another great year for GABR.

    Thanks for all you do for the dogs!

    The Jeakins Family, (Wes, Sherri, Cleo, Amiee & Winston).

  3. mchill says:

    I just wanted to say thanks to everyone who participated and volunteered at the Waddle. Our Mugsy was crowned King and at the coronation I got choked up and couldn’t get out what I wanted to say. Mugsy and all the basset hounds in similar situations are fortunate to have such a wonderful group of people that rescue them from unfortunate situations, vets who doctor them up and foster homes to take care of them until they find their forever home. I believe Mugsy was meant to come to our home and live the life this beautiful basset was meant to enjoy. I am thankful to everyone involved in his rescue that made it possible.

    Mark Hill

  4. HoundDogMom says:

    Mark, I have to agree with you that Mugsy was meant to come to your home. I had the honor or meeting Mugsy before I knew he was the King of the Waddle on Saturday. He had some nice cool refreshing ice under our tent. You and your wife are wonderful and Mugsy is very lucky to have you as his Dad. Look forward to seeing you next year.

  5. bobsmom says:

    This was our first waddle and we will be back next year. I have decided to help do a bit more fundraising next year!!

    Bob loved the pizza party and thanks everyone for sharing the crust. Daisy was so tired and overwhelmed she and her daddy ended up going back to the room.
    The parade was the best! I can’t wait for the next waddle! Bob and Daisy were had a great time too. Daisy said she could use more nap time though.

    Thanks to everyone for making it happen!

  6. Administrator says:

    I’m always glad to hear from someone new to The Waddle. It’s really hard to describe, isn’t it. And when you say you want to get more involved in fundraising, that makes me feel VERY happy. Now get ready for The Basset Ball in April – it’s a very important evening for the Bassets of GABR.

  7. bobsmom says:

    It is hard to describe! I loved just watching all of the hounds. Thanks for the link to the photos, they are great. How many dogs were registered for the waddle?

  8. Administrator says:

    Approximately 900 Bassets – it’s a big number and will get bigger over time. Glad you’re going to be a part of it.

  9. mchill says:

    Where can I find the link for the photos?

  10. Claire Sleep says:

    Hi,
    I found out about your Waddle at Michigan Basset Rescue’s Waddle this spring. My husband and I would love to come down to yours as well. Can you tell me a bit more about what goes on over the course of the weekend. I sure would appreciate it, and look forward to joining all of the “Basset Lovers” in Sept.

    Thank you,
    Claire Sleep

  11. Administrator says:

    Claire -

    We’re always glad to have new attendees at The Waddle. My first suggestion is that you sign up for ongoing Waddle information – you can do that at http://www.bassetrescue.org/Waddleupdates.html

    The one thing you’ll first discover is that attending the Illinois Waddle is like getting together with family. With approximately 700-1000 Bassets in attendance on Sunday for the Waddle, it’s the largest in the country. Saturday’s Bash will feature constant games and entertainment but I believe the highlight this year will be The Great American Basset Races. 8 heat races will be held with the winners coming back for a grand finals race. The winner will get a huge trophy and matching jackets.

    The races are open to any one setting up a Firstgiving Page but will be limited to 64 Bassets. That information will be available next week.

    See you at The Waddle – be sure to say hello.

    Larry

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