Online Auction Nets Over $8000
for Rottweiler Health Foundation 

In mid-March Liz Wertz, RHF President, received an e-mail from Ann Felske-Jackman saying  that "Friends of Esmond Rottweilers" had arranged an online auction to raise money for the Rottweiler Health Foundation (RHF).  They had decided on RHF as the recipient of auction profits from among several choices.  Since the auction was private, only those that donated an item were eligible to bid. The goal was to raise $5000 between March 14 and April 15, 2007. 

The auction was comprised of some 150 items or so, and included a wide variety of both people and Rottweiler items.  Many auction items were not typical and included such novel ideas like an individual's talents and time or that of their dogs. These made for some truly unique items: like a ‘Tug-o'-War Weekend with Yngo,’ a ‘Therapy Visit from Dylan,’ a ‘Training with Lynette Weekend’ or a ‘Tracking Weekend with Donna Wielert.’ The roster of items ranged from custom services like a commissioned portrait of your dog to custom paintings and wall hangings, to handling a show dog or trialing at a herding event to a six-page custom designed website. In addition there were more venues to select from such as clothing, collars, leashes, dog beds, toys, grooming, human treats, dog treats, books, videos, and jewelry. Are you getting the picture? There surely was something for everyone - and their dogs too!  

By the time that the last bid was accepted and all contributions were totaled, the Esmondrott 2007 Auction had reached a grand total of $8070 to donate to RHF!  The auction also raised $750 in memory of dear Arlo, which will be posted on the RHF online Memorial Registry.  What an incredible, fun endeavor and accomplishment!  The RHF is thrilled and very appreciative of the efforts and generosity of all who took part in the auction to benefit health research. 

There is talk that this might become an annual event.  Perhaps it will inspire other people, especially breeders with such a large network of puppy people and friends to join the challenge in raising money for RHF, so that they can continue to fund vital canine health research. 

Today is an exciting time in health research and projects such as this by ‘The Friends of Esmond Rottweilers’ will enable RHF to pursue some of the cutting edge studies that will help our Rottweilers live longer and healthier lives.   We believe all puppies should become Veterans.  Donations from committed breeders and owners can enable RHF to make this happen.  Thank you, Ann & friends for your interest and dedication to the good of the cause.