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TAKE THAT TO THE BANK!

June 15, 2014 | 10 Comments

Use of this beautiful photo is kindly granted by Andreas Holm.  Thank you.

Use of this beautiful photo is kindly granted by Andreas Holm. Thank you.

Last night, my husband was watching television as I sat at my computer uploading photos to cat profiles. I glanced over at the television momentarily – one of those moments that I can only imagine I will refer to later as ‘defining.’
What I saw was an advertisement, in which a father and son go into a pet store and buy pet supplies, along with…………………………………………………………………A PUPPY!!!

Animal welfare organizations fight every day to bring awareness to the concerns surrounding the sale of pets in pet stores. There are numerous campaigns running to have such sales banned. I could not believe what I was watching, and as a viewer, I felt compelled to contact the organization responsible for the offensive advertisement and make a stand for the cause.

Frantically I typed my message; disbelief, outrage, frustration, and ultimately sadness formed words that rallied together into sentences, and formed an army of paragraphs on the screen before me. Then I stepped back, took a deep breath, repeated the idiom ‘you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar’ over and over in my head before erasing the entire message and starting over. I don’t know why I think of that saying – I’m not a fan of flies!

http://youtu.be/ns6p3zvGkUI

This was the version I sent;

To whom it concerns,

I just watched your television commercial where a man and his children go into a pet store and buy a puppy. I’m sure you will find, after doing some research that the majority of puppies purchased from pet stores come from puppy mills. Your commercial that was meant to make people smile makes me extremely sad. Animal welfare advocates like myself, have been working very hard to educate people and fight tirelessly to ban the sale of pets in pet stores, and have all puppy mills shut down. Your commercial is a step backward.

If you want to win thousands of customers, my humble opinion, is that you should acknowledge this huge faux-paw, and admit your ignorance. Here is an opportunity to educate even more people and do some good for the cause. Northwest Savings Bank would be thought highly of, if you were to donate money, by way of apology, to rescue efforts – the organizations that provide medical care and rehabilitation to the parents of the cute little puppies, shipped, like livestock, to the pet stores that still, in fact, sell dogs.

I have been thinking of how it may be possible to introduce the cause into mainstream media – perhaps you have opened the door. I truly hope you will consider this request and help me make a difference. I’ve also included some educational resources for your review – they are not easy to watch, but this is the reason my peers and I fight.

Thank you for reading this message. I welcome the opportunity to discuss this further.

Sincerely,
Sadie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ki2jeHquJa4&feature=g-vrec

http://www.aspca.org/fight-cruelty/puppy-mills

 

The response received from Northwest Savings Bank;

Dear Sadie,

Thank you for reaching out to us.
We produced five different television commercials to help support our new MyNorthwest checking campaign. In each spot, we depict a mix of family members, in real-life scenarios, using various Northwest convenience channels, such as online banking and bill pay, mobile banking, depository ATMs and/or our VISA check card, to convey how Northwest can provide customers with better access to their accounts and how our financial products and services can potentially streamline or simplify a customer’s life. For example, in the specific commercial you referenced, we highlight mobile banking and the ability to transfer funds in real-time between various Northwest accounts.
Our company takes great pride in our employees, customers, shareholders and communities we serve. The content of our advertising is never intended to offend any person or group. We recognize that everyone is entitled to their opinions and views and appreciate your feedback.

Sincerely,
(Name withheld)

 

The last word (to date), from me;

Good morning (Name withheld),

While I’m disappointed, you don’t see the negativity your advertisement is likely to cause, I would like to thank you for your prompt reply.

To be honest, I would not have known what the advertisement was promoting – I was too shocked by the content. I did remember the name of your organization, though not in a positive way.

As a member of various animal-welfare groups, I feel obliged to share with others your stance on this matter.

Sadie

There is such irony in the Northwest Savings Bank slogan ‘Where people make the difference,’ don’t you agree? The term Corporate Social Responsibility refers to a company’s sense of responsibility towards the community and environment (both ecological and social) in which it operates. The reason companies spend billions of dollars on advertising each year, is because it works! We, the consumers are influenced by media. In my opinion, Northwest Savings Bank should have used some of that money and further researched the impact of this message.

One day, in the not too distant future, people will commit time and careful consideration into making the decision to adopt a pet. The convenience of banking methods in a pet store won’t be their priority. You can take that to the bank!


Check back with this site later for details about why this fight is so important as well as information on what it means for puppy-mill and shelter animals.

http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/06/05/oshawa_poised_to_ban_puppy_and_kitten_sales_in_pet_stores.html

https://www.change.org/en-CA/petitions/help-ban-pet-store-retail-outlet-sales-of-puppy-mill-animals-across-Ontario

http://www.chicagonow.com/raining-cats-dogs/2014/03/chicago-bans-puppy-mill-sales-in-pet-stores/

http://andreasholm.com/shelter-dogs/

Toby Project

http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/corporate-social-responsibility.html

Categories: FOR A CAUSE Tagged: Adopt, Cats, Dogs, Faith, Hope, Rescue, Responsible

what matters most

June 4, 2014 | Leave a Comment

The sound of that single, yet determined bark woke me from a deep slumber; I’m sure Reese gets bored now and then and doesn’t want to be the only one awake. She was completely oblivious to our contentment, and hoped this time one of us would be excited to play fetch with her…..at 2am!

Her dream shattered when, I gave her a poke with my toe and told her to ‘settle down.’ She did. Apparently, that wasn’t at all what she was thinking, and we soon learned it was an unfortunate case of ‘the dog who cried wolf.’ Later that morning we were told that a house on our road had burned – a shell remained. My first thought, of course, was for the occupants – a lady and her two small dogs. Thankfully they would all be okay. Our neighbour had been taken to hospital, and her two dogs were finally rounded up by animal control and taken to the shelter. Everyone was safe for the evening.

there's no place like...

My second, third, fourth and fifth thoughts; how did my husband and I not hear all the sirens? Hopefully, if a fire started in our home the dogs would be a bit more vocal than a solitary “woof”! Did our neighbour not hear her dogs? Did she keep her dogs crated in another room – how did they manage to escape? What if we weren’t home and a fire started? Thankfully, I do have a sticker for the window in our front door which indicates, for rescuers, that two dogs and a cat live here.

I am paranoid about leaving something plugged in and tend to keep things unplugged unless in use. Also, it may seem obsessive compulsive, however, when I use anything with heat; hair straightener, oven, iron, I will unplug or turn off the appliance, make sure its secure and after double-checking the electric socket or stove top, I say out loud to myself “unplugged and safe.” By safe, I mean the appliance is not accessible to my pets, and they can’t knock it over. There is nothing worse than ‘that feeling’ in the pit of your stomach. I also rarely use candles – too easy to forget about, or knock over (especially with animals running around). My husband and I used to have to block off our fireplace as Charlie would get as close as she possibly could to be extra cozy. Every so often, we would slide her away from the heat – her coat would get too warm.

Our neighbourhood is a mix of older cottages and newer houses. As I type this, I still don’t know the cause of the fire – faulty wiring in an older building perhaps. Thankfully our house was wired not long ago. We are fitted with smoke detectors and replace the batteries every year on our May long weekend – I guess I associated the smoke from the fireworks and the occasion is my reminder.

The loss of my neighbour’s house is tragic. Thankfully she and her dogs will be okay, and I share this post as a reminder to be vigilant and remain safe.

The loss of material things though often sentimental, and perhaps not replaceable, we can overcome. Firefighters will, of course, advise us not to enter a burning building to rescue a pet. I will do everything in my power to avoid my pets being in that situation; my animal companions are what matters most to me.

home
Please click and review the following resources:

http://www.fiprecan.ca/

http://www.usfa.fema.gov/citizens/home_fire_prev/garage_fires.shtm

http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/sparky-the-fire-dog

Categories: UNCATEGORIZED Tagged: Dogs, Family, HOME, Love, Safe

YOU HAD ME AT WOOF

April 22, 2014 | Leave a Comment

'Woof'

The Starbucks in my neck of the woods, is a dangerous place; it creates a ‘relax, unwind, take your time’ sort of mentality. Not the mindset I should adapt when perusing the vast selection of books on display, in what I consider an earthly form of heaven, next door at Chapters. Perhaps I should compare it more to the garden, of Eden; I love reading (when I can find the time) and purchase on impulse, sometimes several delights per visit. As is the case with most of my wonderful assortment of books, they end up shelved, to be glanced at briefly, each week as I ‘swiffer’ over their spines. I make a promise to come back and rescue one from remaining of no more significance than the ornament or framed photo with which it shares the space.

True to my word, I did go back and pick ‘YOU HAD ME AT WOOF’, written by author Julie Klam. I am delighted to share with you my review of this wonderful, incredibly well-written, book.

Reading Julie’s story is like listening to a girlfriend share, first-hand, her hilarious and at times, heart-wrenching experiences with dogs – specifically, Boston Terriers. I could definitely share a bottle of wine and several laughs, or tears, I’m sure, with this witty and kind-hearted person.

We first meet Julie, as a single girl living in New York City.  Her story and life-changing experiences, are shared over a period of more than four years – yet, as I read through the pages, it seemed no time passed before I reached the back cover. This incredibly honest, heart-felt account of Klam’s trials and tribulations, gives much insight about what is involved in working with rescue organizations; a multitude of issues, and inevitabilities associated with animal welfare, rescue, shelters, fostering, and dog-ownership, in general. Anyone who has, or previously had an animal companion will relate – those involved with animal welfare, concernedly so.   When it comes to animal welfare, it’s so often hard not to be judgemental, and react adversely to people.  Julie is relatable to readers; with her her down-to-earth personality and non-filtered sharing of personal opinions, she lends humour and/or empathy to each situation.

In this book ‘You had me at woof’, Julie Klam shares with us, what is in my opinion, one of life’s most valuable lessons; ‘How Dogs Taught Me the Secrets of Happiness’.

 

Categories: BOOKS & ENTERTAINMENT Tagged: Adopt, Best Friend, Dogs, Enjoy Life, Faithful, For a Cause, Forever Home, Foster, Goodwill, Heart, Hope, Inspiration, Love, Loyal, Safe, Selfless Acts of Kindness

B-I-N-G-O

April 12, 2014 | Leave a Comment

There was a farmer had a dog,
And Bingo was his name-o.
B-I-N-G-O!
B-I-N-G-O!
B-I-N-G-O!
And Bingo was his name-o!

Chubby is one of many Boston Terriers being rehomed through Boston Terrier Rescue Canada

Chubby is one of many Boston Terriers being rehomed through Boston Terrier Rescue Canada

(Record scrrrrrrrratcccccchhh)

This post has nothing, and EVERYTHING to do with dogs (and cats).

I’d like to tell you about a different kind of B-I-N-G-O, and a different kind of Boston.  Music B-I-N-G-O, was the name of the game at my local Boston Pizza.  General Manager, Shawn Parkinson doubles as d.j. for the event, which packs a pretty full house.  I love music, especially the older tunes so what could be better than a few drinks, and a trip down memory lane, jammin’ to the music?  A one-man comedy act performed by said d.j.  This evening of light entertainment also packs some pretty hefty benefits for local causes.

Tricia Soulier, of Pawsitive Approach Pet Services Inc. was having lunch at Boston Pizza when she learned of the community program.  Daniel Landry, team member at Boston pizza, explained the program to her.  Tricia, who, as well as walking Henry, Reese and other dogs in the community, is also on the advisory committee of the local animal shelter and has been an ‘off-site’ volunteer for the shelter for more than fifteen years.  Therefore, it is hardly surprising that Tricia decided to set up an “account” to raise funds for Georgina Animal Shelter. Tricia explains that “Being a Town facility they are not permitted to ask for donations. I however am free to do so. I set this up so that the cheque comes to me. It will be used for veterinary and medications/medical supplies only.”  Tricia has been promoting the program via Facebook, emails, Twitter, as well as, word of mouth.

All I had to do, was write the name of the organization I wished to support on the back of my receipt, and drop it in the ‘Earn Back’ box on my way out.  Boston Pizza then donates 10% of my bill to my selected cause!

BP

Afun night with a cause!

Afun night with a cause!

Trish, you are a shining example within the community.  I hope others will follow your lead and take the initiative to set up programs within their communities also.

Pawsitive Approach Pet Services Inc.
http://pawsitiveapproach.ca/

Georgina Animal Control
http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/on53.html

Thank you Boston Terrier Rescue Canada for sharing the adorable photo of Chubby – we hope he finds a loving home very soon:
http://www.bostonterrierrescuecanada.com/

And finally, thank you Boston Pizza for the ‘Earn Back’ programs;
http://bostonpizza.com/en/school-programs/fundraising/

 

 

Categories: FOR A CAUSE, PRODUCT & SERVICE REVIEWS Tagged: Cats, Dogs, For a Cause, Fun, Goodwill, Inspiration, Rescue, Selfless Acts of Kindness

HUCK – a tale of hope and faith

January 22, 2014 | 1 Comment

my christmas miracle

my christmas miracle

 

I love to read – especially books about animals.  Admittedly, I don’t make enough time to do so.  That is why I was quite surprised to receive this charming book from a dear friend.  This dear friend is patiently waiting for several books lent to me from her library, and yet, she said ‘I saw it and thought of you’.

Before the arrival of the books main character Huck, we are introduced to his family.  They are relatable – we all know families like this one, and have experienced similar upsets within our own.

I knew what was coming, and almost didn’t want to read on.  At the same time, I couldn’t stop reading.  I’m so glad I continued.

‘Huck’ was the perfect story to read as the year came to an end; it inspired me, and gave me hope for the new year ahead.

Thank you Elaine xx

 

 

 

 

 

 

Categories: BOOKS & ENTERTAINMENT Tagged: Best Friend, Cuddles, Dogs, Enjoy Life, Faithful, Heart, Hope, Inspiration, Kisses, Life, Love, Puppy, Trust

MERRY FETCHING CHRISTMAS – TO ME!

January 12, 2014 | 2 Comments

I love coming home to surprise parcels, and the one waiting on the doorstep the week after Christmas, was particularly special.

The tee in the envelope was inspired by my rescued, canine nephew Jeffrey.

Special Delivery

Special Delivery

Jeffrey is featured in the colourful logo in this line of apparel, aptly named ‘Fetching Apparel’.  Helping to reduce the homeless pet population, 40% of profit is donated to spay/neuter programs and animal rescue operations.

Live your dreams!

Live your dreams!

Sign up to receive notice of future posts by email, or check back often to learn how you can win a ‘Fetching Apparel’ t-shirt.

FA4

 #SPONSORED

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received the t-shirt featured above from FETCHING APPAREL for posting an honest review of this product. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. We did not receive monetary compensation for this review, and it is our choice to share this product/service information.

Thank you for visiting our blog. We would love to hear from you; please send us a message or leave a comment beneath a blog post. If you know someone that might enjoy or benefit from the information, please ‘pin it,’ ‘post it,’ ‘tweet’ about it or simply share the link via email. Be sure you don’t miss future posts – sign up for email notifications.

Categories: HAPPY TALES & TRIBUTES, PRODUCT & SERVICE REVIEWS Tagged: Dogs, Fun, Gifts, Treat

janet hill art – cards I love

December 24, 2013 | Leave a Comment

May your stocking be filled with all the treats you wish for!

May your stocking be filled with all the treats you wish for!

We received this is beautiful card from my parents.  I have an appreciation for the arts and was thrilled to learn this was the creation of a local (Ontario) artist, Janet Hill.  I look forward to introducing you to Janet and her portfolio early in the new year.

In the meantime, I can’t help smiling when I walk by this card.  Although adorable, I can’t think what made my mom think of us when she found it……..

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

 

 

Categories: PRODUCT & SERVICE REVIEWS Tagged: Cats, Dogs, Fun, Gifts, Holidays, Treasure, Treat

themes – cards I love

December 19, 2013 | Leave a Comment

One of the most interesting things about the season, to me, is opening cards.  Did the sender choose a design that reminded them of the recipient?  Or, perhaps it is a reflection of the sender.

I was thrilled to find this Carlton Cards collection at Walmart!

Dogs, cats, boutiques, Ontario snow, skating on Lake Simcoe, one of my favourite cities, New York can be seen in the background of one of the cards.

 

Hope it snows joy all through your holidays.

Hope it snows joy all through your holidays.

 

Celebrate the hope, joy, and wonder of Christmas all year long.

Celebrate the hope, joy, and wonder of Christmas all year long.

 

Happy everything, everywhere, to everyone this Christmas - and especially to you and yours!

Happy everything, everywhere, to everyone this Christmas – and especially to you and yours!

 

Enjoy all of the fun and excitement of the season.

Enjoy all of the fun and excitement of the season.

 

Surprise to anyone who hasn’t received their card from me yet – oops!

 

 

 

Categories: PRODUCT & SERVICE REVIEWS Tagged: Cats, Dogs, Fun, Gifts, Holidays, Treat

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We’re Sadie & Co. (her and her dogs plus the cat). Would you like to share your rescue story or tell us about an amazing service or product? We’d love to hear from you! Thank you for visiting, we hope you’ll stop by often. Better yet, subscribe and don’t miss out on the latest and greatest tips, tricks and treats!

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