When she was in college making six bucks an hour, she rescued her first pup and took out $2000 on a credit card to care for it’s medical costs. Last year her small rescue operation (that takes a village of big hearted people to lend a hand) Lisa Parker’s Puppies rescued and adopted 90 dogs in the Four Corners area. On the day we met with her, she was busy planning for an upcoming fundraiser with three of her beloved rescue dogs under foot, bringing her toys and maneuvering in for a little attention or tummy scratch. It’s hard to find the right words of admiration we have for someone so selflessly on a mission to save so many lives and educate the public about adoption. We are pleased to introduce to you a remarkable woman, Lisa Parker …
SWD GUEST Q&A
Celebrating intriguing people who embrace their southwestern lifestyles.
The questions are always the same … the answers are always unique.
SWD: Are you originally from the Southwest? If not what brought you here?
Lisa: Born and whelped, Durango Colorado.
SWD: Soft tacos or crunchy?
Lisa: Got to go soft on this one question, because that’s how they were meant to be!
SWD: What are your favorite adventures or getaways in the Southwest?
Lisa: Camping in Moab, Sedona, or Cimarron near Ridgway Colorado. Any camping or river will do, especially if my 4 legged friends can come.
SWD: What is your favorite margarita?
Lisa: Salty is always in order, virgin is not, and a traditional natural classic would be my go to. Let’s not add anything unnecessary to perfection.
SWD: What is your favorite Southwestern National Park?
Lisa: Canyonlands because it’s not only close, you have to do physical activity to see it. Getting to the Doll House by river is a favorite.
SWD: Red or Green (or Christmas?)
Lisa: Green (apparently that’s what intelligent people choose? :- )
SWD: What is the most satisfying aspect of what you do?
Lisa: Changing a life one pup and family at a time
SWD: What is the most challenging aspect of what you do?
Lisa: Learning and accepting the limits of rescue
SWD: Corn or flour tortillas?
Lisa: Blue corn because they match blue heelers!
SWD: What do you absolutely refuse to eat?
Lisa: Dog food – tried it once, not enough salt in it for me.
SWD: This may have just been answered, but … What are your thoughts on menudo (and no, we don’t mean the boy band)?
Lisa: When in Rome…or Mexico. But seriously … gross.
SWD: Do you cook? What are some favorite dishes you like to make?
Lisa: Oh yes! I love cooking Thai food because you can be flexible and use what is available and fresh.
SWD: If you hypothetically moved away from the Southwest, what would you ask people to send to you in a care package? What would you miss the most about the Southwest?
Lisa: I would ask for that mountain that’s 20 minutes away and the desert that is also 20 minutes in the other direction. We have so many choices here.
SWD: Where is your favorite Green Chile Cheeseburger?
Lisa: Griegos. When I was in school at Durango High my friends and I would walk to Griego’s for lunch. Their green chile cheeseburger is still a classic, no frills, “not too thought over” perfect burger.
SWD: Is there a place outside of the Southwest you would like to visit? Some intriguing spot around the world?
Lisa: Easter Island. It’s so different and I’m fascinated with anthropology and archeology.
SWD: Is there a Southwestern destination you’ve been wanting to visit?
Lisa: More slot canyons!
SWD: Do you have a mantra?
Lisa: Always remember – You Can Change A Life! And …
I never use the phrase “I’m starving” because I have seen and nursed starving animals and once you see the true meaning of starvation, that becomes a word not to be taken lightly. (Was that last one a pet peeve question too? Or just a quick one time rant I get!!?)
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Lisa’s 2018 fundraiser is Feb. 23rd with the goal to raise funds for an emergency medical account for dogs that are injured and in need of immediate medical attention and surgeries …
Located at the Durango Elk’s Lodge, the fundraiser’s silent auction will offer lots of dog goods and also a few big ticket items like: a trip to Mexico, a private scenic plane ride, luxury facial treatments and other donated goodies.
No reservations are needed, tickets will be sold at the door. Prepare for a fun night with food, music and lots of good hearted people!
Donations page — currently seeking funds for emergency care
Of note, Lisa works very closely with the Aztec Animal Shelter. If you are able to donate, please check their site as they are in need of an x-ray machine.
12 comments
That is a wonderful story — thanks! Also a spectacular photo at the top of your newsletter!
Ms. M, thank you! .. and that newsletter photo is a definite bucket list moment.
It takes a very special person to rescue, nurture and find homes for dogs. This is a wonderful Q&A.
True Blue, we have a great deal of admiration for Lisa. She is one of those very special people.
This one warms my heart.
Ally, we feel the same, and thank you for the sweet comment.
Wonderful q&a and the best answer so far on “what do you refuse to eat!” Such an incredible woman.
Nan, we were rolling on the floor after reading that answer! And yes, she is an amazing, selfless woman. So happy to know her.
Great Q&A, one of my favorites.
LK, we love doing these Q&As and meeting extraordinary people like Lisa.
This is the type of woman I would add to my list of “Who Would You Invite To Your Ultimate Dinner Party?” Her mantra brings tears to my eyes. God bless her and the lives she is saving.
ChileSage, Lisa is an amazing woman. You’ve inspired us to add her to our ultimate dinner guest list as well. 🙂