Storytellers

When Randy and Kathy’s 15-year-old, 85-pound Irish Setter crossed the Rainbow Bridge in April 2020, they could tell their 54-pound red Setter rescue, Sorcha, was grieving her companion. The entire family wanted a second dog, and they decided to “downsize” to an English Setter.   

Phillip was five years old when he came into rescue. He’d been a family dog, but his family wanted more from him than companionship. He’d failed hunting school twice, and his family determined he didn’t fit into their idea of what they wanted from a dog. Thankfully, they contacted SWESR so Phillip could find a home who would love him for who he is, and not for who they wanted him to be.

In 2015, Alan and Cheri lost their beloved Irish Setter Riley. When they were emotionally ready to open themselves up to another dog, they decided to foster as they wanted to help a pup in need but weren’t sure they wanted to commit to adopting again. The Irish Setter organization had no dogs available, but after looking on-line, they discovered Southwest English Setter Rescue (SWESR).

SWESR Lucy came into rescue in 2021 as a 3-year old, after her hunting guide owner passed away. She’d been kept outside, in a kennel, and it was apparent she’d never been in a house before. She didn’t like loud noises, and a gruff voice from anyone (not even directed at her) sent her like a pancake onto the floor in fear.

While searching for a companion for her Irish Setter, Bailey, Carol came across the website for Southwest English Setter Rescue (SWESR). She scrolled through the pictures of available dogs and read their descriptions. She saw Lukie’s photo and was captivated. Well, maybe, she thought.

Nine and a half year old Thunder is a handsome English Setter who lived his entire life outside. He was used as a stud dog and was provided no medical care at all. The only time Thunder was allowed inside was if the weather was literally freezing cold, at which point he would be carried into the house and placed inside a crate until the morning. Can you imagine? His paws had never touched an indoor surface until he was surrendered into rescue in late June 2024.

In May 2017, SWESR was notified about a 7-year old blind English Setter in an Oklahoma shelter. Kai was rescued quickly and went to a foster home. His foster mother took him to a canine ophthalmology specialist, who diagnosed Kai with a degenerative eye condition called progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). It is not painful, but there is no cure.

Patch came into our lives at over fourteen years old, a senior dog with a lifetime of hard work behind him. Surrendered to SWESR from a hunting ranch, he had lived in a pen with other dogs without toys or a family to call his own. His health was poor, and his spirit was worn, but Patch yearned for love like no dog we’d ever seen before. His desire for human companionship and love was insatiable.