Susan Beatty

Sue and I were childhood friends. We had our love of animals in common. Going to her house to play was such a treat for me because I got to be around all of those wonderful Dalmations! Their backyard was also a draw for me with its turtle pen and coleus plants. We roller skated in their basement and played throughout the house and out of doors. Her mother taught me how to swim. My family moved to the west coast when I was in my teens. After that, we kept in touch sporadically, but I...

In 2011 Susan rescued three Australian shepherd pups, one of whom we adopted and named Lily. Lily and her sibs were judged unadoptable but Susan intervened to save their lives. We will always remain so grateful for Susan's dedication.

One afternoon thirteen years ago, I decided I was ready to add to my family. I wanted a dog. That day I was introduced to Sue and that same day, I became the mother to my sweet baby Shakespeare. He is old now and sitting at my feet. We have had a glorious life together and I will forever be grateful to Sue for her devotion to animals. Rest peacefully Sue. I know you were greeted by so many furry souls when you reached the other side. That´s a life well lived.

Indirectly, Ken and directly, Sue are the reasons I'm addicted to Dalmatians today. When I first moved from my parents' house, I wanted my own dog. I gave my SPCA staff member roommate a list of breeds and the 1st to come in was a little barely able to stand, emaciated Dalmatian. The current director thought the dog needed to be euthanized, but then volunteer Sue asked to take her to her house just to see how she did. Sue paid for bloodwork out of her own pocket and gave her a stable loving...