Conversations with Debi Sullivan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Debi Sullivan.

Hi Debi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I was driving down the street one day and noticed a bunch of teenagers in a circle kicking out and hitting something with sticks. As I started to pass them I saw a little white ball of fluff laying on the ground, curled in a ball, giving up and taking all the abuse. I slammed on my brakes and ran over, pushing the kids out of my way. I scooped him in my arms and ran back to my car… the kids screaming at me.

I drove out of the area and found a public spot to pull over in.

Trying to be gentle, I tried looking over this white ball of fluff that still clung to himself in a ball. I sat on the floor of my car gently patting him, speaking softly, trying to get him to uncurl. We sat for a long while before he slowly lifted his head and gave me the lightest kiss on my hand.

Sambuca was my first rescue, my first dog. He was the beginning of my journey which has turned into a mission. The abuse Sambuca suffered hit home with me, as he healed, part of me did as well. My heart found a need in the unwanted and unloved and I started Pit Crew IL Rescue to help the abused & neglected.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I don’t think anything of value has a smooth road. Rescue is definitely not a smooth road at all. There are always more critical medical dogs than there is space or funding. You want to help them all, but the reality is you can’t. And that guilt weighs heavy.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I run a critical medical rescue helping dogs set to be put down due to injury or neglect. I’d say I’m most proud of the transformations our work has accomplished. We don’t care about numbers, or time, or even being the best…. we just want to do our absolute best at helping to heal the innocent so they can find a home that will cherish them.

Who else deserves credit for your story?
Our vet & specialists, our transporters, our volunteers, our supporters, and our board of directors. Each is critical to the work we do, without each of them more animals would go without the help they need.

Contact Info:

• Website: Pitcrewil.org

Image Credits
Pit Crew IL Rescue