Jones sorted a chunk of her grandmother’s unneeded change, and together they approached C.C. Beaudette-Wellman, founder of Happy Endings, a non-profit organization in Solvang that is devoted to the care and rehabilitation of domestic animals. “I have had kids give us money, but I haven’t had someone this young, dedicated and consistent,” said Beaudette-Wellman. When Jones arrived at Happy Endings to meet Beaudette-Wellman, she was immediately drawn to a horse named T.W. Smooth for his resemblance to her own horse, Mojo. “When I heard about the horses not having enough food, I thought it would be a great idea to take the money (to Happy Endings),” Jones said.
The money Jones donated will go to T.W. Smooth’s food and medicine, according to Beaudette-Wellman. Beaudette-Wellman has been rehabilitating animals for more than 30 years and has been a member of the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network almost since its inception. She is also one of the only wildlife rehabilitators in Santa Barbara County experienced with exotic animals.
She is passionate about educating children and adults on the care and respect for all animals and providing refuge to domestic animals who would otherwise be euthanized or who need to be removed from a neglectful or abusive situation. On the wilder side, she will cover prevention of habitat destruction, indirect or second-hand poisoning and the consequences that arise when humans take young “orphaned” wildlife out of their environment.
HEARS has an adoption program which requires a careful screening process of individuals, ensuring that they will provide permanent, loving homes and exceptional care for their animals. HEARS also rehabilitates animals that have come from abusive or neglectful situations and gently helps them to become well mannered, loyal and loving pets, making them easily adoptable.
Jones said she has loved animals since the age of 1, when her family got their first dog, Savannah. Now with eight others, including a stray cat named Daisy and a cow named Ruby, her love of animals has only grown stronger. A plaque engraved with Jones’ name will be hung in her honor on the front gate of Happy Endings. If you would like to help Jones help Happy Endings, visit happyendingsanimalrescuesanctuary.org