96.7 The Eagle Thinks Dena Lamping Gates is Awesome

I have a soft spot in my heart for my dogs, they mean the world to me. Dena loves all dogs, her heart is huge.

The August winner of The 96.7 The Eagle Thinks You're Awesome Award goes to Dean Lamping Gates. I first met her last winter when I had a chance to swim with therapy dogs.

You can tell that her passion for the animals was one of a kind, her smile said it all. Dena is someone that has devoted her life to the rescue of dogs and helping them get to a happy place. I received this e-mail about some of Dena's work:

Last year, there was a pit bull named Mama Maine who came to the rescue pregnant and neglected. She gave birth, cared for her puppies and stole the hearts of many people at the rescue and in the community. Dena desperately tried to rehabilitate Mama Maine’s aggressive behavior so she could be adopted, but ultimately, she had to be put down. This dog will forever hold a spot in Dena’s heart and she has a painting of Mama in her living room.

I also think people should know about the countless sleepless nights Dena has endured to care for puppies and kittens that were either found in a dumpster, along side the road or left at the door of the rescue center in the middle of the night, too young to survive on their own. She has hand fed and nursed many puppies/kittens back to health, comforted them as they cried for their mom all night, and had her heart broken as some did not survive. Dena is my hero.

For your passion and you love of animals in our area, we say thank you Dena. Congratulations on being the August, 96.7 Thinks You're Awesome Award Winner.

To nominate someone locally for this award, follow the link below.