Shelter for unwanted, abused animals, and an offer of aid

Julian Graham and his wife Barbara moved to Clementsvale in May, 2005, from Richmond, Va., where Graham had started a foundation for abused animals called All God’s Creatures. “I bring in horses, got Rosebud the pig down here, chickens, donkeys….”

His wife went to Louisiana last week to bring home a three-legged dog named ‘Faith’, and the couple now have 10 dogs at the house, along with about 20 chickens, seven cats, a pig and a few horses and donkeys. “That’s not as many as I had a year ago,” he said. “It’s a labour of love because it is a lot of work.”

It hasn’t always been easy for the Grahams.

The year the couple moved to Clementsvale, their house burned down in November and they lost three dogs in the fire. About two years ago, one of their horses was shot as well. “We’ve kind of had some ups and downs but the bottom line is we mainly help animals,” said Graham. “So many people get a rabbit for Easter and then three days later they don’t want it.”

The foundation does not take donations, and Graham said does all the work himself, cutting the grass and hauling the hay and firewood but admitted he is getting a little old so he has to keep it down to a minimum.

He also just put an ad up offering to help people with small projects such as fixing windows, doors, cutting trees or moving objects.

His new project is called ‘The Helping Hand’ and all work is free of charge. He is hoping the elderly take him up on the offer.

Graham understands the economy is tough and figured he’s got the equipment so why not help out.

He can be reached at 467-0211 or 247-3008.