ASPCA Guardian

Do you want to make a difference for animals all year long?

Become an ASPCA Guardian. They are a group of dedicated friends like you who make regular monthly gifts to benefit animals in need. This level of support makes it possible for the ASPCA to continue its life-saving programs for needy animals.

As an ASPCA Guardian, you will stay updated with ASPCA newsletters as well as gain access to a special Guardians-only website. There is no need to renew each year and you may call to change your monthly gift amount or cancel at any time.

Shelters across the country are struggling to keep animals that have been abandoned or abused. Last year, the ASPCA assisted in the adoption of thousands of shelter animals. For as little as 60 cents a day, you can help ASPCA rescue innocent animals from a lifetime of neglect and suffering. They need your support to continue its life-saving programs.

If you are thinking "charity" this time of year, consider donating to the ASPCA.

A Song About A Dog

Tessie Mae was a stray at the Charlottesville, Virginia SPCA. She was adopted by Robin and Linda Williams, talented bluegrass musicians. They wrote a song praising the charms of their rescue dog. Listen......



If you have challenges with the words, here are the lyrics:

You’re an angel and a little sneak
A sweetheart with a stubborn streak
Good at following your nose
Out any door that wasn't closed
You're July and January
Sunny bright and contrary
Used to doing as you pleased
Back before you sidled up to me

CHORUS:
Hey, Hey your straying days
Are over Tessie Mae
Hey, Hey sit and stay
Don't turn your head away
Your straying days are over
Tessie Mae

You're five pounds of sugar in a two pound sack
You stole my heart, I don't want it back
You’re a tease and you’re a flirt
But I don't get my feelings hurt
When you go prancing up the street
White socks on your little feet
And wag your tail, that curlicue
Strangers drop to do the coochie coo

CHORUS:

I'd like to go and see Levon
And tell him that her name is wrong
That Bessie girl he once knew
Tessie she sure sounds like you
But Levon had you pegged it seems
Cause Tessie, you're a drunkards dream
You mend me when I spring a leak
You defend me I don’t have to speak

CHORUS:

Doggie Ears

No, not sugary and sweet like elephant ears.

Doggie ears need attention too.

I recently picked up the fall copy of Virginia Maryland Dog magazine and read an interesting article on the health of doggie ears. Besides having interesting articles, this magazine features a dog on its cover each issue that is up for adoption at Baywater Animal Rescue, a NO Kill animal shelter. Inside the magazine you can read about the cover dog.

The fact that I learned was that the dark, brownish-black substance that smells like yeast on the dog's ear is NOT normal ear wax. It is NOT dirty ears or waxy buildup. It is an infection called Malassezia. Just cleaning this off the outside of your dog's ear canal will not take care of it because the ear canal is very long and makes a turn. The article talks about how to take care of this infection, so be sure to read about it and other ways to keep your doggie's ears healthy.

Warm Place to Sleep

Want to make a difference in a dog's life?

Did you know that every year 5-7 million companion pets end up in shelters around the United States?

The Petfinder Foundation and P.L.A.Y. have teamed up to insure that shelter pets have a warm place to sleep.

Here is how you can help. Purchase a bed from P.L.A.Y. and they will donate a special edition Chill Pad to a shelter in need.

You will sleep better, too, knowing that you helped a furry friend.

Artists Helping Animals

Have you heard of HeARTs Speak?

It is a non-profit organization of professional artists who use their artistic gifts to raise awareness of and promote adoptions for homeless and unwanted pets.

Lisa Prince Fishler started HeARTs Speak in January, 2010. She was overwhe.med by the number of adoptable animals euthanized each year - more than 4 million in the U.S. alone. Lisa set out to find a new way to encourage people to adopt from a shelter.

The artwork and stories are a valuable resource for the media, websites, magazines, as well as educational institutions. If you saw a photo or painting of a cute dog or heard its story, wouldn't you be more inclined to give that pet a home?

If you are an artist, an animal advocate, an educator, or just someone who is passionate about helping animals, visit the HeARTs Speak website.

Skateboarding, Animals, and Art

What do these three things have in common?

Entrepreneur, David Hendrickson created an eco-friendly skateboard and apparel company, in 2011, shortly after adopting a Chihuahua from the animal shelter where he volunteered. David and William are inseparable.

Combining his love of art and skateboarding with his passion for animals, David started Hendrick Boards and created collections of skateboards and apparel to give back to animal shelters and pet adoption programs – helping animals, like William, find loving homes.

Every purchase gives back to animal shelters and rescues throughout the nation – from 20% to 40% of the purchase price.

Together we can make a difference for shelter animals everywhere.

From Shelter to Circus Performer

Luciano Anastasini comes from a long line of circus performers going back to his great-great-great-great grandparents. When his fall from 50 feet ended his career as acrobat his thoughts turned to those in a somewhat similar desperate situation; shelter dogs. He now trains rescue dogs to perform in circus acts. He approaches the dogs with compassion and ingenuity. The dogs show him what they want to do and he figures out a way to let them do it.

Adopting a Dog?

If you are considering adopting a dog from an animal shelter or rescue organization, here are some screening test questions you may be asked to help ensure dogs are matched with responsible, lifelong homes.


1. Why do you want to adopt a dog?

Your answer will help rescuers determine whether you want a dog for the right reasons, along with which of their adoptees might match your lifestyle.

2. Do you have a veterinarian we can contact?

Many rescues want to verify that your are provided regular veterinary care for pets past and present.

3. Do you have children, and if so, how old are they?

Some rescues refuse to place dogs with families with young children for safety reasons. Plus, not all dogs mesh well with children.

4. Do other pets live with you, and if so, what kind?

Likewise, not every dog can live in harmony with other canines, cats, or small furry creatures.

5. Where will your dog spend the night and day?

No rescue wants to see a dog kept in 24/7 backyard banishment.



Did you pass the test?

Thank you for choosing a rescue dog.




"Dogs are not our whole life,

but they make our lives whole."

-Robert Caras-

National Dog Day

Did you know that yesterday (August 26th) was National Dog Day?

This special holiday was created in 2004 for two special purposes: to honor dogs and to rescue dogs from homelessness and abuse.

I honored my dog by taking her and her two girlfriends (and mine) to the beach. We all had a marvelous time as it was one of Washington's perfect sunny and warm day at the coast.

Dogs are an important part of our lives. Not only do they give us unconditional love, loyalty, companionship and comfort, they also help us in so many ways. They are trusted watchdogs that keep our families safe. Police and military dogs, bomb-sniffing dogs and search-and-rescue dogs put their lives on the line every day to help save human lives. Guide dogs are devoted to serving their blind companions. Service dogs assist disabled.

Dogs give so much to us - so honoring their noble efforts is a really nice idea.

But as much as dogs help us, there are also so many dogs out there that need US to help THEM. That's why the second goal of National Dog Day is to help save dogs from homelessness and abuse.

• Rescue a dog if you can - If you're thinking about rescuing a new dog, here are some good tips:

1. Research the shelter and rescue group options in your area. Check the Internet, talk to your veterinarian and pet-loving friends, and do not be afraid to call these facilities and ask questions. Most rescue groups are quite humane and clean, but you still should do your homework to be sure they are right for you.

2. Remember to think with your head. When you are looking at those adorable doggie faces, it is easy to make a decision based purely on what your heart feels. BEFORE, you go looking for the perfect dog, seriously think about the canine characteristics that will be best for your family and home, and stick to those guidelines while at the shelter.

3. List what you are looking for in a dog. Go to the shelter with a plan. Tell the staff why you want a dog, and they will help you find the right one for you. Do you want a jogging partner, a lap dog, a hunting dog, a companion for the kids.....? Do you want a puppy or would you like to rescue an old dog? Small, large? Long-haired, short-haired?...

4. Consider your finances and lifestyle. Pets are a lifetime commitment, and they deserve the best care possible. Will your pocketbook allow you to feed a dog a quality diet, provide him with the supplies his needs to nurture his daily life, and give him adequate preventative and emergency medical care? Do you have plenty of available time to spend with a dog? Do not adopt a dog only to find that you do not have time or money for him. This is never fair to any pet.

5. Take your time when making this big decision. Do not rush into pet ownership. Take the time needed to find the right dog and get to know him. Several visits to the dog at the shelter may be best before taking him home. Also, take the time to be sure your house is ready for the new family member.

6. Visit with the dogs outside their cages. A shelter is a stressful environment. The other animals and all the noise may make a dog nervous and unsocial or over-exuberant to win your attention. Taking a dog outside or to a private visiting room will give you the opportunity to get to know the dog's true personality.

7. Interact with the dog. Do not just say, "He is cute, I will take him." If the staff will allow you, walk him, play with him, find out if he knows any commands or tricks, give him a snack... Get to know the dog, and let him get to know you.

8. Allow the dog to meet all members of the family. Bring Mom, Dad, kids, even other pets if the shelter allows it. Be sure the dog you are considering for adoption is comfortable with the whole family.

9. Talk to the staff. The staff members are handy tools for helping you learn more about the dog, his likes and dislikes, his quirks, his health, etc. The staff members spend a lot of time with these rescue dogs and have gotten to know them well.

10. Evaluate the dog's health and body condition. Check for discharge from the dog's eyes and nose. Is the dog coughing, sneezing, etc.? Note the dog's gait. Is the dog overweight or underweight? Check for fleas and ticks. Check the condition of the teeth. If you see any issues in these areas, talk to your vet and/or the shelter staff about them. Learn what you can do to resolve any health problems, and think about whether you are willing to do so.

11. Bring needed supplies on adoption day. Be prepared, and help your dog feel welcome. Bring a collar, leash, blanket for the car seat, and possibly a toy on the day of adoption. Try to make your dog's transition as stress-free and calm as possible.

12. Do not expect everything to go perfectly. There will be struggles. Remember your dog will be a little nervous in his new home, and he will not immediately know your expectations. The rules and ways of his previous home probably were not the same as they are in his current home. BE PATIENT as your dog adjusts.

13. Show him your love. Give your new dog abundant time, attention, and affection. This is especially important during his adjustment period. Help him feel wanted and comfortable.

Puppy Size

Puppy Size

Danielle keeps repeating it over and over again. "We've been back to this animal shelter at least five times. It has been weeks now since we started all of this," the mother told the volunteer.

"What is it she keeps asking for?", the volunteer asked.

"'Puppy size!'" replied the mother.

"Well, we have plenty of puppies, if that's what she's looking for."

"I know... we have seen most of them", the mom said in frustration.

Just then Danielle came walking into the office

"Well, did you find one?" asked her mom. "No, not this time," Danielle said with sadness in her voice. "Can we come back on the weekend?"

The two women looked at each other, shook their heads and laughed.

"You never know when we will get more dogs. Unfortunately, there's always a supply," the volunteer said.

Danielle took her mother by the hand and headed to the door. "Don 't worry, I'll find one this weekend," she said.

Over the next few days both Mom and Dad had long conversations with her.

They both felt she was being too particular. "It's this weekend or we're not looking any more," Dad finally said in frustration.

"We don't want to hear anything more about 'puppy size', either," Mom added.

Sure enough, they were the first ones in the shelter on Saturday morning. By now Danielle knew her way around, so she ran right for the section that housed the smaller dogs.

Tired of the routine, mom sat in the small waiting room at the end of the first row of cages. There was an observation window so you could see the animals during times when visitors weren't permitted.

Danielle walked slowly from cage to cage, kneeling periodically to take a closer look. One by one the dogs were brought out and she held each one.

One by one she said, "Sorry, but you're not the one."

It was the last cage on this last day in search of the perfect pup.

The volunteer opened the cage door and the child carefully picked up the dog and held it closely. This time she took a little longer.

"Mom, that's it! I found the right puppy! He's the one! I know it!" She screamed with joy. "It's the puppy size!"

"But it's the same size as all the other puppies you held over the last few weeks," Mom said.

"No...not size... The sighs. When I held him in my arms, he sighed", she said.

"Don't you remember? When I asked you one day what love is, you told me love depends on the sighs of your heart. The more you love, the bigger the sigh!"

The two women looked at each other for a moment. Mom didn't know whether to laugh or cry. As she stooped down to hug the child, she did a little of both.

"Mom, every time you hold me, I sigh. When you and Daddy come home from work and hug each other, you both sigh. I knew I would find the right puppy if it sighed when I held it in my arms", she said.

Then, holding the puppy up close to her face, she said, "Mom, he loves me. I heard the sighs of his heart!"

Author Unknown

Shelter Dogs

I came across this poem by Angel Wells in Martinsburg, West Virgina.

Angel said, "All of my dogs are shelter dogs, but I wrote this poem about one of them in particular. He is my chihuahua/papillon mix that has become my therapy dog. He is very special to me and I couldn't live without him. Fate brought us together, and I think if other people would take the time to look in their local shelter, they might find their soul mate as well."

A Shelter Dogs Poem

Once upon a time, you see,
There was this little pup
For reasons unbeknownst to me,
His family gave him up

Maybe it was chewing
Everything that he could find
Maybe they were busy and
Just didn't have the time

They took him to the shelter
And they just left him there
Outside, alone, in the cage
Shivering and scared

Even though they knew inside
If he went through those doors
He may never have the chance
To find a home like yours

He sat there crying silently
Wondering what he did
That was so bad that they just
Had to leave him like they did

However fate was smiling
On that little pup that day
Because a lady saw him
And she whisked him right away

He got a second chance at life
That others may have not
And now he's in a loving home
With everything he wants

Every day he gets that love
That he was looking for
And silently is thankful for when
She walked through that door

Others may not have this chance
So open up your heart
And adopt a shelter dog to take
And give a brand new start