Help Pam Keep Her Home with Her Animals.

Hello, my name is Pam Schwerdt and I want to thank you for taking a few moments to read my story. I am a 70 year-old, single woman, who has worked hard and made it through some difficult times in my life. However, I have never experienced this kind of financial crisis that threatens so much of what I’ve worked for.

I retired in June 2020 and began a little business of dog breeding, boarding, and daycare services. Unfortunately that summer, Covid hit the country hard and people were unable to leave their homes for work or vacations. That devastated my business as people began looking to camping and other outdoor vacations, which allowed them to take their dogs with them. I was forced to stop the boarding and daycare aspects and turned my focus on breeding healthy, good tempered labs for people who love them as much as I do. My first litter was a great experience and provided people with healthy puppies that became beloved members of the family. I was even able to give three of the pups to a service agency. Something I am most proud of, as two of them made the cut; one was added to their breeding program, and the other went to a hearing, impaired young lady. 

My finances took another major hit, 10 months ago, when my black dogs chewed a hole in the front fence and roamed the neighborhood at night. Daisy was hit and permanently messed up an elbow. Veterinary bills and fence replacement costs were $10,000. In February of this year, my second planned breeding was initiated, but not completed, as the overnight delivery of the productive fluids came a week late. As a result, my Ramey was no longer in heat, and the reproductive fluid was worthless. As is the case in this business, I was responsible for the cost of the stud services which took most of my remaining funds 

This leads to my current financial crisis and need to create a GoFundMe account. Last week. I noticed what I thought was a little water leak near the driveway of my home. The house, built in 1950, was plumbed (sewer and water) with materials that hadn’t been used in decades. For instance, the sewer line was made from tar paper. Can you imagine that? Tar paper! It literally crumbled, as the plumber was examining the job. It turned out that the water line was located just inches from the sewer line, which also broke apart as it as it was examined. With two systems in need of substantial repair the cost doubled.

These events have led me to turn to the community for help, as the estimate for fixing both lines is $14,000. But, as is often the case with older homes, it could cost more if unforeseen problems arise. 

I want you to know I am applying for jobs and selling a few things to keep from having to leave my home. if I had to do that, I’m not sure where my four- legged babies could go. Landlords generally don’t allow pets. Please also know I am very thankful for your thoughts, prayers, words of encouragement, and money you can spare, to help me save my home. Thank you again for reading my story. Blessings to you all, Pam