Underhound Railroad is honored to have had the support of Winter Page since our organization first began in 2009. In addition to fostering, adopting, volunteering, and fundraising, Winter has been a positive, outspoken advocate for animals in need. We asked her if she could describe her journey and work with us and in her community, and she put it beautifully:
“My journey with The Underhound Railroad began in 2009. At the time, I was prepared to purchase a purebred puppy, unaware of the devastating overpopulation crisis facing shelters in this country. Fate intervened when I discovered The Underhound Railroad and adopted my first rescue, Mowgli. Learning how close he came to being euthanized opened my eyes to the reality that countless healthy, loving dogs are put down every day simply because there are too many.
That adoption forever changed my path. I immediately began fostering, opening my home to dogs in need, and educating everyone around me about the importance of spay and neuter programs and adopting rather than buying. It created a ripple effect around me; my mother began fostering, friends started adopting, and others became involved once they understood the truth. That was when I truly understood the power of knowledge: once people know the reality, change follows. And this ripple effect is not just mine, it is shared by every single person who works with The Underhound Railroad, creating a chain reaction of compassion that saves lives.
Years later, after Mowgli’s passing, I honored his memory by returning to fostering with my local shelter in 2020. In 2023, I had what rescuers lovingly call a “foster fail” — adopting my foster dog, Kiki. Foster failing is never really a failure; it’s the ultimate success. Both of my Underhound adoptions, first Mowgli and now Kiki, have been defining experiences that deepened my commitment to this mission.
When life circumstances made fostering more difficult, I stayed engaged in other ways. I was given the opportunity through the Underhound to conduct adoption home and virtual visits, ensuring dogs found safe, loving homes. I also turned my career in bartending into a platform for fundraising. In 2024, I donated all of my birthday tips to The Underhound Railroad, raising over $2,000 in one night. The following year, I partnered with Tito’s Vodka, who pledged $500 in matching donations, and together with my community we raised over $3,000.
The Underhound Railroad has saved countless lives, including the two I was lucky enough to call my own. Most importantly, they have given a voice to the voiceless, shining a light on the dogs who would otherwise be forgotten. The Underhound Railroad without knowing it has profoundly shaped who I am. As long as I have food, clothing, and a roof over my head, I will continue to dedicate my time, voice, and resources to this mission, a mission that will continue until every single shelter dog has the loving home they deserve.”
Thank you, Winter! We are so honored and inspired to be working with you on this important cause. You have, indeed, created a happy ripple effect in the community! ❤️
