Recently in Fan Mail

From our Facebook Fans

Posted on February 18, 2010 | Link

From Jennifer

I just saw your video on Inside Edition tonight!!! I am shocked and can't believe there is an organization that actually helps animals like this!! How wonderful, wonderful, wonderful!! You are certainly sent from heaven. I have volunteered in a new shelter here in Chattanooga, TN and saw everything you spoke of and it is just appalling. They were to be a "no kill". Sorry to say I had no idea what that even meant, but I grew to learn. When I saw them euthanizing "for space", I just could not take it anymore and walked out. Now I help with rescue groups, transports, etc.

Thank the Lord for a place like yours to help, save these "throw away animals".

Posted on February 16, 2010 | Link

From Donna

Hi Steve,

I saw a story about your Sanctuary on Inside Edition tonight and was thrilled to see the amazing work that you do! For those people who couldn't "make it work" with their dogs, it is good to know that they have a place like Olympic Animal Sanctuary.

Posted on February 16, 2010 | Link

From Danielle

Mr. Markwell and staff,

I just watched your story on Inside Edition. My only complaint was that it was a brief segment. I wish they spent so much more time on your story. You are an angel to these animals. Thank you for your compassion and passion for what you do. There are a group of us here in PA rooting for you and we will do what we can to help your facility and spread the word. I would love to learn more about you and the journey of your fortunate tenants.

Truly moved and wish you the best.

Posted on February 16, 2010 | Link

From Geri

I saw a blip on the Olympic Animal Sanctuary today on the television and decided to send you a big thanks for all you do. The world needs more kind people like you.

Posted on February 16, 2010 | Link

From Monika

Hello -

I just felt compelled to e-mail you to let you know how glad I am to have found out about your sanctuary. This morning I had no idea you existed, but I randomly stumbled across your fan page on Facebook and have just spent over an hour reading your website and looking through the pictures of your dogs. I really admire the work you are doing, and also the frank and unapologetic way you write, both toward the general public and in specific replies to criticisms you've received. I particularly loved seeing the outdoor pictures of the dogs at the sanctuary - they all look so happy and healthy, and it is obvious that you've put a lot of care into creating a nice habitat for them. I'll refrain from rambling at too much length, but after reading the "hate mail" section of your website, I just wanted to make sure you got some positive feedback as well. =)

Have a great evening (or morning, day, whenever you read this...)!

Posted on January 18, 2010 | Link

From Kay

Steve, I wanted to commend you for what you are doing...I rescue dogs that are just thrown out to fend for themselves and have found many of them homes...You are a brave man with a halo for giving these dogs a chance to love and be loved....Kindest Regards

Posted on January 18, 2010 | Link

From Savannah

Steve,
I came to your web site through facebook and let me just let you know how amazed I am! You do such a wonderful thing! I live in Las Vegas and I am a true animal lover and I completely appreciate everything you and your team do for animals who may not always have someone on their side. I've always thought about moving to Washington, and if I do I would be proud to know that I have an organization like yours in my state =) Thank you once again!

Posted on January 18, 2010 | Link

From Natalie

Hi Steve,

I just read the story in our local newspaper in Bend, Oregon. I just wanted to say kudos to you. I wholeheartedly agree with your philosophy. The main reason I am writing to you is your comment on "dog whisperers" and "spiritual kinship". It is refreshing to read what you say is key- common sense. No one wants to hear about common sense anymore, few people really possess or use it. Everyone wants a magical or spiritual solution for everything.

Keep up the good work. Take care.

Posted on January 14, 2010 | Link

From Steve

Hello Steve...Congratulations on being one of the "Good Guys". I recently read about your work in the Chicago Tribune. You are doing a kind and generous thing with your "unacceptable" animals. I found your website and your response to "Patricia" was great!! Right on target!! Its too bad people like her do not recognize the contributions of folks like you. Keep it up! I wish you well. May your God bless you and your work.

Posted on January 11, 2010 | Link

From Jason

Hi Steve,

Just read about your place and what you do. Thanks, and by all means keep up the good work! Not much more to say than that so I will let you get back to work...Oh yeah, please pass two words on to dearest Patricia for me, -expletive deleted- and you. Thanks again!

Posted on January 6, 2010 | Link

From Abbey

I like your no bull$#!+ attitude. It's the reality of it all.

Posted on December 30, 2009 | Link

From Heidi

Hi Steve. I wanted to say thanks again for taking the time for our conversation yesterday. Even though I was unable to save Oz's life, I feel that discovering that you and your sanctuary exist is going to open many doors and opportunities to saving the lives of even more dogs. It's a breath of fresh air to know that I'm not alone in this battle. Below I have attached a picture of my dogs and myself. I hope that in the next couple of weeks, I can make it up to Forks and do some volunteer work for you. Thanks again and take care.

Posted on December 29, 2009 | Link

From Ellen

Hi Steve,

I saw the article about your mission and was so impressed.

I live in Lancaster County PA, where we have those horrible 'puppy mills'. We rescue abused puppy mill companion dogs that are bred out and due to be destroyed (we currently have 3 Chihuahua mixes.)

Warm Regards and Happy New Year from our girls, Zoe, Olivia and Emma.

Posted on December 29, 2009 | Link

From Jenna

Hi Steve,

My friend told me about your website and I just spent the last hour reading every inch of it. I just want to say that I think what you are doing is the most incredible thing in the whole world. I only wish I knew about you a year or two ago. See a friend of ours had this boxer mix who they say bit people. I was "bit" by him once and it was not more than a nibble to the back of the leg. They said the dog, Fredo was his name, lunged at a boy and tried to bite his face (whether that was true, I don't know) and anyway, since I love dogs so much (and my goal in life is to have a rescue facility of my own) they told me that he was going to be put to sleep if I didn't find a rescue place that would take him. Well, I spent every waking moment trying to contact different organizations and even some out of state. None would take a dog who bit people. Even tho I begged his owners to let me have him so I can get him the training that he needed, to my horror and absolute dismay, Fredo (a truly wonderful but misunderstood dog) was put to sleep. I will never forget him and will never forgive myself for not finding him a place but his owner was very strict in not letting me have him and only finding a rescue organization that would take a dog who bites.

I am so thankful that I know about you now and just wanted to say thank you so much for what you are doing for these dogs.

I was attacked by a couple of dogs last year (yes, the kind where I had to go to the hospital) but that didn't put even the slightest damper on my love for dogs and my desire to help them in any way I can. Like I said, it is my goal in life to have a rescue organization of my own that will keep these wonderful animals from being killed.

Posted on December 28, 2009 | Link

From Shelley

I read your story in the LA Times. As volunteer with a breed-specific rescue group, I can only imagine the number and type of contacts you have with people about their dogs. I'm sure you're inundated these days, but I hoped to just offer a clear "thank you" for your work. Your page on Placement is probably the best piece of writing I've encountered on-line from any animal group. Loved it!

Posted on December 28, 2009 | Link

From Leslie

Dear Steve,

I read about your wonderful organization in my local paper today, and I wanted to thank you for rescuing these animals. The behavior of dogs is as a result of their training, or lack of training, and as such, people should be held accountable, not the dogs. They are all wonderful in their own way, and I commend you for recognizing this and giving them a sanctuary. You are an awesome human being, and I thank you for doing this!!

Posted on December 27, 2009 | Link

From our Facebook Fans

Posted on December 24, 2009 | Link

From Donnelle

Hi Steve,

I just had to write to you real quick to let you know your are one of the most amazing people I have ever heard of in my life. The work you do with those misunderstood dogs is incredible.

The animals in this world need more people like you.

Thank You.

Posted on December 21, 2009 | Link

From Cliff

Hi Steve,

I'm sure you're getting plenty of fan mail so you can add this to the pile. What you're doing is truly brilliant. Every dog deserves to live its life in a healthy, patient, compassionate environment free from violence and fear. If I wasn't on the opposite end of the country I would want to volunteer or something, but I guess I'll just have to buy all my clothes at your online store from now on since I can't participate directly. I hope you get all the support you need to provide a home to every hard-case victim of abuse and bad training that comes your way.

Posted on December 21, 2009 | Link

From Caryn

Hi Steve,

I just came across an article about you and your sanctuary - Just wanted
to say THANK YOU and bless you for what you do for these animals. I am
a strict advocate of a no-kill philosophy, as I believe the dogs are
born to be loving, feeling beings - it is us humans that influence them
into "bad" behavior.

Again - bless you and your animals - Happy Holidays!

Posted on December 19, 2009 | Link

From Rod and Barb

I just need to say I was very touched by the recent article I read about this sanctuary you provide for "these canine criminals of society". It is humans that are to blame largely for what these animals do. All animals need love, just as we do.

God Bless you Steve!

Posted on December 19, 2009 | Link

From Antonio

Steve:

read an article about you in the Chi trib today. My wife and I want to personally thank you for your efforts, we rescue pittys and wish we could do it full time but we have yet to retire. Thanks again, the country could use a million more like you

Posted on December 18, 2009 | Link

From Roger

STEVE -

I read the excellent article in The Times about you, the dogs, and your sanctuary. You are that rare commodity -the right person for the right job. I congratulate you!

Posted on December 17, 2009 | Link

From Cathy

Hi Steve,

I saw your article in the LA Times and I then read your website and am very
impressed by the information you are putting forth to people. I especially
love how you address people who wish to relinquish their dog because they
think it will save their marriage, oh how I would LOVE to be able to post
that on my own rescue website, LOL!

Posted on December 15, 2009 | Link

From Jill

Hi Steve -- I just read an article about your organization and the wonderful work you do in the Hartford Courant (CT).

Bless you for the amazing work you do.

Posted on December 15, 2009 | Link

From our Facebook Fans

Posted on December 13, 2009 | Link

From Louisa

Hello,

A friend showed me the article in today's Tacoma News Tribune and I almost didn't read it. I thought, 'Not another macho dog guy.' I almost didn't make it through the first half of them recounting all the horror stories of 'bad' dogs. I hear enough of those in my line of work. Then I read what prompted me to write:

"...the secret to taming the untameable is not being tough. It's giving dogs their space until they are ready to let him in..."

I then found your blog and like what you said in 'A Word of Advice'. Not many people quote Turid Rugaas. :)

Ah, sweet relief! Someone who gets it. I am a veterinarian with a special interest in behavior problems. I have been working and studying and learning about pet behavior for 25 years and have seen the whole alpha thing come and go and come back again. I see the pain we inflict on our dogs in the name of training or from misguided trainers. I see dogs that are merely defending themselves and get deemed 'aggressive'. It breaks my heart, especially when I get the whole 'dog whisperer' garbage spouted. Sigh...

Thank you for spreading the word.

Posted on December 13, 2009 | Link

From Melodie

I'm so glad I had the opportunity to meet you and Tom last evening. Hearing you talk about your sanctuary, your plans for the future, and your love of the dogs no one else wants just reinforced my feeling that this is the right place for Pixie.

Thanks so much to you and Tom for making this long journey. You are very special people, and I look forward to seeing your plans for an expanded sanctuary come to fruition.

Thanks, again, for everything.

Posted on December 13, 2009 | Link

From Yvonne

Hi Steve
I just spent the last hour on your website and think that the sanctuary is great - and a lot of hard work. Keep up the good work.

Posted on December 12, 2009 | Link

From Claire

Steve,

Saw the L.A. Times article. Visited your web site.

What you are doing is phenomenal!!!

Posted on December 12, 2009 | Link

From a Secret Admirer

After reading through your website I just have to say...............I think I'm in love with you. :)

I've spent the past five years volunteering with animal rescue and my local shelter and I'm honestly kind of sick of them, the people, and how many of them handle rescues and their incredibly backwards views on animals, especially the "unadoptables". I hope they all study your site and words. You are so incredibly right on.

Posted on December 12, 2009 | Link

From Nancy

Hi Steve,

I read the article about you in today's LA Times. What a wonderful purpose you have!

Much love to you and the animals!

Posted on December 11, 2009 | Link

From Ben

Keep up the good work.

Posted on December 11, 2009 | Link

From Amy

You are doing an awesome job, and I just wanted you to know that. Have a
great day....

Posted on December 11, 2009 | Link

From Sue

Hi Steve -

Thanks for the work you do w/ animals!

Posted on December 11, 2009 | Link

From Jim

Yo Steve;

Read the LA Times this AM.

I feel compelled to commend bravery. Your courage is a standard that sends a wonderful and positive message to all that come across your mission and its effect.

I must tell you how helpful your view and methods re: biting dogs have helped me to deal with a "99.9% wonderful dog buddy" who has bit me 3 times in 7 years.

Your remark about handling a dog who is grouchy when he wakes up (I am the same way) was simple, yet profound and all revealing to me. I am pretty bright but sometimes, the simple stuff , stuff of baseline importance, flies by under the radar.

Keep your philosophy of clear and logical thinking around our canine support group in the limelight.

Job #1 for all of us is: Leave a better place than you find". Boy, are you ever doin' that.

Posted on December 11, 2009 | Link

From our Facebook Fans

Posted on December 10, 2009 | Link

From Mary

Mr. Markwell,

Read the article about you and your work in the Los Angeles Times this evening. Went straight to your site and of course I am thankful for what you do but even more thankful for your directness.

I like your philosophy and the way you address the situation that our dogs find themselves in.

Hello to Snaps. I can't say anything more with regards to his personal situation because I fear what I would write but I will say thank god he is with you.

Posted on December 10, 2009 | Link

From our Facebook Fans

Posted on December 4, 2009 | Link

From Christine

we attended your presentation on Tuesday and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was educational and fun. You did a great presentation and the dogs you bought for us to meet were great. Thank you for coming all the way from Forks to do the presentation and thank you for making is so interesting.

Posted on November 13, 2009 | Link

From Laura

Hi Steve,

I was at your presentation today. I just wanted to say it was very well done, I agreed with everything you said. That is awesome that you are able to make such a huge difference for the dogs and for all the people that know you.

Posted on November 10, 2009 | Link

From Joe

Hi Steve:
I just wanted to tell you how great it was to see the dogs out enjoying their hill at the sanctuary yesterday morning. My wife Robyn has gotten to come over and make donations and sends checks when possible. But so far I have only gotten to drive by. We got to spend Saturday night at our place there and were heading home yesterday when we drove past your place. It is really great to see the dogs out enjoying themselves and what you have done so far is miraculous. It sure is nice to know that there are others who care for the animals.

Posted on October 26, 2009 | Link

From Karen

Hi Steve, i just read about your place, your mission and your dogs! Much admiration from me to you.

Posted on October 21, 2009 | Link

From Julie

Dear Steve:

I just received an email that Olympic Animal Sanctuary has custody of Snaps and he would not be euthanized. I went to the link included and viewed the photos of Snaps with you. Wow! He looks positively happy and joyful that he has a new home with *lots of room* to run! (The photo of him in the kennel broke my heart with his "Somebody-help-me-please" look). Viewing those photos of him thanking you for saving him was a great joy to me. He looked so happy and thankful that you were able to help him!

God bless you for the work you are doing.

Posted on September 29, 2009 | Link

From Holly

Dear All,

I am writing to thank-you for making sure Snaps has the life he deserves. I was so worried about him and fearful of the outcome. Your hard work and openness to thinking outside a box is much appreciated.

Posted on September 28, 2009 | Link

From Kathy

Thank you for doing what you do.

Posted on September 28, 2009 | Link

From Louise in South Africa

Thank you so much for letting each and every one who signed the petition know that Snaps is safe, and also thank you very much for being willing to help dogs like Snaps.

Posted on September 28, 2009 | Link

From Karen and Dave

Just wanted to say a great big heartfelt thank you for what you did for Snaps, and for the gift of human kindness you are providing to so many animals in need. You are truly a blessing.

Posted on September 21, 2009 | Link

From Brandy

I was truly touched while reading the story on Snaps in the paper today. Animals need more people like you and your volunteers.

Posted on September 21, 2009 | Link

From Alma

Thanks you for taking Snaps into your sanctuary. Signing petitions and raising hell are rewarded when things like this happen. May he enjoy a deserving happy and full life.

Posted on September 21, 2009 | Link

From Lena

I wanted to take a moment to say "Thank You!!" for being tireless in your effort to save Snaps. This was a case many of us worried about, and I was very happy to hear that he will be safe thanks to your efforts. I am so glad that this case got so much attention and it has a happy ending for him. I hope that other dogs in his position in the future will have such wonderful advocates as Snaps had with you. Thank you!!!

Posted on September 18, 2009 | Link

From Alyne

Thanks for being the wonderful human beings that you are for making the compassionate decision to help Snaps. This world needs WAY more of your kind!

Posted on September 18, 2009 | Link

From Karla

Just a comment on Snaps......thank you so much for caring for these animals and taking Snaps! I'm so grateful for the work you do.

Posted on September 15, 2009 | Link

From Rebecca

Steve,

Thank you so much taking Snaps! It is wonderful to see him enjoying the outdoors!

Posted on September 14, 2009 | Link

From Deborah

Hi Steve!!

I just want to send a word of thanks to those of you @ Olympic Animal Sanctuary for taking in Snaps. Many of us from PBOC, Pit Bulls Online Community have been following Snaps' story since it first hit the news.

It's comforting to know that there are many that have seen Snaps as being victimized as well in the circumstances that led him to you.

May God bless you and the Sanctuaries endeavors in the coming years for all of the love and devotion you give to the unwanteds of this world! Please give Snaps a big 'ol hug and kiss for me!!

Posted on September 13, 2009 | Link

From Jackie

I have been following Snaps' story on the Pitbull Online Community forums and am so glad to hear that he has found a home with you. From the pictures on your website, it looks as if he's in a wonderful loving place and that he will have a chance to be the dog he really is instead of the weapon people tried to turn him into!

Posted on September 12, 2009 | Link

From Mark

Steve - you're a true saint & I commend you for what you're doing for these wonderful animals. Snaps came from such a horrible household & I know he's going to thrive at your sanctuary.

Posted on September 12, 2009 | Link

From Caroline

Ahh Steve,
You made my weekend!!! I have been following Snaps' story since the
beginning, sickened by what these teenagers did to this poor dog. Thank you
from the bottom of my heart, people like you give me hope and faith that we
all do make a difference one dog at a time.

Posted on September 12, 2009 | Link

From Holly

Good morning Steve, my name is Holly. I read this morning that you've taken
in Snaps. I'm so relieved. I wasn't sure that Snaps would get a chance at
any goodness in this life...looks like she will.

I've read through your website, I think you are a real inspiration and a
pioneer in your progressive views about care and rehab for these troubled
animals.

Posted on September 12, 2009 | Link

From Kirstan

I just read your site - we were wondering what became of Snaps and then the article popped up. Your explanation of how and why you do what you do is fabulous!

Thanks for doing it.

Posted on September 11, 2009 | Link