MILAN, Ill. — James Hudson has been friends with Susan Tackabury since they met at the Quad Cities Bicycle Club years ago.
“She is so selfless," Hudson said. "She always doesn’t worry much about herself. It’s what can she do for someone else or for a stray cat or dog. She’s just got a big heart."
He has been inspired by all the work she does for animals and pets around the Quad Cities region. That's why he nominated her for the Pay It Forward award, sponsored by Ascentra Credit Union.
Tackabury volunteers at the Quad City Animal Welfare Center's clinic, but that is just one thing she does to devote time to animals. Tackabury is also one of the founding members of On The Run Pet Rescue, a non-profit organization helping reunite lost pets with their owners.
“There’s just a small group of volunteers. And we do this all on our time and all on our own dime," Tackabury said.
The organization works with owners when a pet has gone missing and sets up traps as well as cameras that will notify them when an animal has been caught.
“I’m up in the middle of the night watching cameras to make sure when we have a trap set that they don’t stay in that trap very long. And once I see them go in…it’s like ‘That’s what I’m here for!’ and it’s like 'High five!" Tackabury said.
Reuniting those lost animals — or even catching a stray to give it a better life — is a feeling like none other for her.
“Cause they need a voice. I can’t imagine what it’s like for a parent to lose their animal," Tackabury said. “I want to eliminate their worry about their pet and if there is anything I can do to make that happen… I’m gonna do it."
You can visit On The Run Pet Rescue's Facebook page for more information. The group shares advice on keeping your pets safe and shares updates on current lost pets.
Tackabury also wants people to know the importance of getting your pets neutered and spayed to help keep shelters from getting overwhelmed and overpopulated.
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for his or her community? News 8 and Ascentra Credit Union would like to help you Pay it Forward to them. Click here to nominate someone you know.
See previous Pay It Forward award winners:
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