Rescue group offers golden opportunity to find a new friend

VIRGINIA BEACH

July 30 was a golden evening on the beach at 58th Street, and it was more than the glow of the summer sunset.

More than 50 dogs frolicked on the sand and in the shore break during the annual picnic for a rescue program that encourages people to foster or adopt golden retrievers. The program is called Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training - or SEVA GRREAT.

Ken Shewbridge and his wife, Windsor, are in the process of adopting Harley from the rescue program.

"We loved the breed," said Windsor Shewbridge.

Rescue program volunteers interviewed the Shewbridges when they sought to foster a golden years ago. The organization also performs home evaluations.

The Shewbridges received Harley about eight weeks ago. He was suffering from heartworm disease and was to remain under their care until the organization found a permanent home. He quickly became a great companion, said Ken Shewbridge. Now they're planning to keep him.

"They really try to match the right dog with the right people," said Windsor Shewbridge.

At the picnic on the beach, families shared the stories of rescue and the new lives they've provided for their canines.

Lisa Vogel of Witchduck threw a ball to a crowd of eager golden retrievers, who splashed in the water.

Vogel adopted Wyatt one year ago after the loss of another dog. Wyatt, she said, filled a void and brought joy to her life.

"He rescued me," said Vogel.

SEVA GRREAT is an all- volunteer-staffed, nonprofit organization.

"We are able to rescue sick, unwanted and abandoned golden retrievers because of the support we receive from the community," said Melissa Pence, SEVA GRREAT foster coordinator. "We have a huge need for volunteers and financial support."

Stacy Parker,

stacyparker@cox.net