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CARING FOR KATNISS

November 13, 2020 | 9 Comments

A HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER

Not unlike her namesake, Katniss Everdeen, the main character in The Hunger Games, this pretty little feline and her sister were not born into a life of luxury. For the sake of this post, we’ll refer to Katniss’ sister as Primrose. Unlike the Everdeen girls, however, our feline sisters did not get along. Primrose became violent with Katniss each time our heroine approached the food, thinking she would eat all of what little food they had between them. Let The Hunger Games begin!

Holiday Portrait Fundraiser

The girls were surrendered to Finley Cat Rescue (link unavailable at this time). Primrose was adopted into a loving home and is doing very well. Let’s not feel bad for Katniss, though. During her time alone, Katniss has blossomed into a happy, loving, playful, and more confident cat (yay). I guess we all benefit from some alone time.   

Everything seemed to be going as well as any rescue can hope, and then, Katniss’s carer discovered a lump near one of the cat’s nipples. Because of Katniss’s newfound confidence, comfortably displaying her belly, her carer could easily monitor the mass. The lump disappeared only to return two months after her spay surgery.   

Initially, the vet suspected mammary cancer due to the location of the lump

Upon removing some fluid from the mass, the vet and rescue volunteer were shocked to find it contained milk. Even though Katniss hadn’t been pregnant and is spayed, her hormones caused her to lactate.

Photo provided by Finley Cat Rescue

Due to the unique situation, the vet reached out to a specialist vet at the OVC Health Sciences Centre. The specialist confirmed hormones were triggered before the spay and lactation occurred at the end of a pseudopregnancy.

To say the rescue was relieved Katniss did not have cancer is an understatement:

I had prepared myself for the worst-case scenario. If necessary, Katniss would stay with me in palliative care for as long as she wanted

Katniss was self nursing, encouraging her body to produce more milk, as though nursing kittens. It became a vicious cycle. The rescue organization reached out to other groups to find kittens in need of a nursing mother. There weren’t any.

Katniss was fitted with an e-collar to prevent her from nursing, but because the milk did not dry up, and she continued to lactate, the vet prescribed medication for her.

https://herandherdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/MOV_20201111_1413294.mp4

 

Katniss has learned to ‘sit’ for treats (see video).

The vet(s) and rescue organization expect that Katniss will make a full recovery and be ready for adoption in approximately one month. We will keep you posted on her journey.

I am not pretty. I am not beautiful. I am as radiant as the sun

― Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games

In the meantime, to assist with medical costs, I am creating holiday-themed e-cards. These are digital files that I will make as close to your likeness(es) as possible. Of course, upon receipt, you can print a hard-copy of your portrait if you choose to.

I am donating 50% of proceeds from each portrait to Katniss’s medical expenses. Additional profits to cover cost of program and other digital requirements.

Prices start at $20 Cdn for (up to) two people and (up to) two pets.

Please email me for details and to request an application form at sadiemae.co@gmail.com

Family Portrait

 

Thank you for your support,

 

 

 

Categories: ADOPTABLES, RESCUE GROUPS & SHELTERS Tagged: Adopt, Cats, For a Cause, Rescue

SOI DOG, CANADA

June 14, 2019 | 16 Comments

MUTT MARCH – A HUGE SUCCESS IN TWO PROVINCES

In our previous post, we introduced you to SOI DOG FOUNDATION, an incredible organization dedicated to caring for the street dogs and cats of Thailand, and persistently advocating for much-needed change to animal welfare legislation.

Soi Dog, Indy

On June second, the Vancouver chapter of Soi Dog, Canada, held their very first Mutt March fundraiser, followed by the Ontario march, in Erindale Park, Mississauga.  I am happy to report both events were hugely successful. The funds raised from Ontario’s walk nearing ten-thousand dollars!  This money will help with the spay/neuter program at Soi Dog in Thailand, and a portion of the funds will assist the following initiatives:

  • Alberta Spay and Neuter Task Force – Helping People, Helping Animals
  • Northern Spay and Neuter Campaign in Ontario – Working with remote First Nation communities to assist with animal management and health issues
  • The Canadian Animal Assistance Team in British Columbia – Help Give Them Access To The Care They Need

Close to eighty participants pre-registered for Ontario’s first-ever Mutt March, with more people registering on the day. Over one hundred people turned up to support Soi Dog; including, many Soi Dog rescues, and two partner rescues!

Proud Participant

Even the weather cooperated; the sun shone the whole day. One of the event organizers, and Soi Dog volunteer, Sondra, agrees:

In all, we feel that for a first-time, it was a success. We hope people enjoyed themselves

Weather appropriate attire

Fun contests followed the walk, included:

  • Best dressed dog
  • Dog & owner look most alike
  • Waggiest Tail
  • Best Trick

Lookalikes

Best Trick

Waggiest Tail

Sponsors for the event included:

  • Green Shift
  • Canisource Gran Cru
  • Zyderma
  • Pet Love4Charity
  • Smith Werks
  • RC Pets
  • Island Veterinary Hospital
  • Bonnie & Clyde Premium Pet Food
  • Walks and Wags Pet First Aid
  • Earth Rated
  • Bosley’s, New Westminster
  • Tractive
  • The Kindergarten Class of Pineview Public School

these little kids raised almost five-hundred dollars, through their own initiative!

Sondra strongly agrees children will set the best example, and lead the rest of us to a more humane future for our animal companions. We need to educate young people first.

Vendors and exhibitors included:

  • Pet Love 4 Charity
  • The Bowtail
  • Ren’s Pets
  • Mobile Canine Care
  • Barker and Snouts (doggie ice cream)
  • Pets in Motion Chiropractic
  • Party Painterz (face painters)

I scream, you scream…

Pet Love 4 Charity

Adds Sondra,

We are grateful to the City of Mississauga, our vendors, and exhibitors, Cindy Cherry our MC, and, of course, we appreciate the support, and efforts of our volunteers. Much appreciation to everyone who came out and participated, helping to make the day a success. A special thanks to my team lead, Bev Cartright; an outstanding volunteer, in so many ways

I had the privilege of speaking with several attendees, all of whom agreed it was a day of fun for people and pups!

Pooped Pups

Once again, I am grateful to share the incredible work done by this organization.

Thank you, Soi Dog team,

 

 

 

 

Soi Dog Canada is a not for profit corporation run entirely by volunteers.

Categories: ADOPTABLES, RESCUE GROUPS & SHELTERS Tagged: For a Cause, Fun, International Rescue, Walk

RETAIL THERAPY AND VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTS FOR CATS

January 30, 2017 | 15 Comments

GIFTS FOR THE BEST CAUSE – PAWS!

***PARTY OPEN UNTIL FEBRUARY FIFTH***

Today is the day! Our online stella & dot jewelry party means stunning accessories for you or a loved one. Proceeds from this sale will go to benefit Georgina Feral Cat Committee. Guilt-free shopping!

For Rescue Moms & Animal Lovers this Valentine’s Day.

Georgina Feral Cat Committee is a dedicated group of volunteers whose goal is to work with the community to address the feral cat issue in the Town of Georgina. They manage this by implementing the humane practice of ‘Trap, Neuter, Return’ (TNR). Volunteers locate colonies of feral cats, trap them and have them spayed, neutered and vaccinated. One recovered, the cats are returned to where they were found. Back to their colony. The cats that are deemed friendly or that may be socialized and rehabilitated are adopted into loving homes.

Everyone benefits from ‘retail therapy’ in this case, so do the cats!

GFCC’s first project was a group of thirteen cats and kittens at the Mary Brown’s (restaurant) in Keswick.  These cats did have some contact with humans when they begged for chicken.  All of the cats were trapped, spayed or neutered and adopted into loving homes.

Rings for fingers – and paws!

Currently, Georgina Feral Cat Committee is working to TNR two colonies and have another two groups of cats waiting for their help.

They need our support!

How can you help?
-volunteer
-foster
-adopt
-spay and neuter your pets

By spaying or neutering your cat, you ensure you are not contributing to the problem.

Oh, and another way to help – shop!

Traveler Bag from stella & dot. Rooster is ready to rock & roll!

There is a flat shipping rate of $7.95 across Canada. Need help? Stylist Sarah Kirk-Douglas will be available to answer questions and offer suggestions, between 8 – 9:30 pm Monday, January 30th. Click here to join the party.

Thank you for helping to make a difference for this incredible initiative,

 

 

 

 

Categories: FOR A CAUSE Tagged: Causes, For a Cause, Jewelry, Rescue, Rescue Organizations

A TO Z CHALLENGE – THEME REVEAL APRIL, 2016

March 20, 2016 | 16 Comments

THE PHONETIC ALPHAPET

In Support of Pilots N Paws Canada

PNPC

PNPC

PAPA – NOVEMBER – PAPA – CHARLIE

Bob was my father’s beloved co-pilot – through life and in the air.  My dad would strap Bob into his seat in the gyroplane (C-FRAN) and off they took to the sky, admiring the view from above.  Bob is there still – watching over his master.

 

WHAT HAVE I DONE???

I signed up for the Blogging from A to Z Challenge!!!

For the entire month of April (except Sundays), I will post artwork based on the theme ‘The Phonetic Alphabet.’ The idea is inspired, and artwork produced in support of, Pilots N Paws Canada. I have wanted to come up with a creative way to support this organization for their annual Online Auction. The A to Z challenge was just the kick in the tail I needed.

Also, I tend to be VERY critical of myself when it comes to my artwork. I have a hard time working ‘loosely’ and as time is limited (for this project), I have decided to just ‘let go’ and see what happens.

I hope you like my creations. If so, please leave a comment. I’m going completely out of my comfort zone here so would be grateful for any words of encouragement.

Please join me on April 1st when I share A – Alpha!

These pieces will be available for sale as prints, note cards and original artwork to raise funds for PNPC.

Thank you,
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Categories: WORKS OF ART Tagged: Art, Challenge, For a Cause

MOVEMBER – SPORT, OR SUPPORT!

November 27, 2015 | 3 Comments

DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE!

This month you’ve no doubt noticed an increase in facial hair.  These fuzzy smiles are not just because winter has arrived. During the month of November, it’s cool to sport a moustache, and support the cause known as ‘Movember.’

 
Movember is held each year during the month of November. The event involves the growing of moustaches to raise awareness of various cancers, such as prostate cancer. This cause is near and dear to my heart.  My father-in-law was diagnosed early and survived prostate cancer.  Sadly, my family lost a dear friend to the same type of cancer.  The Movember Foundation works year-round with global men’s health partners and academic and clinical institutions to ensure their programs accelerate improvements to some of the biggest health issues faced by men. In particular: Prostate Cancer, Testicular Cancer, Poor Mental Health and Physical Inactivity,  Please visit The Movember Foundation to learn how you can help “change the face of men’s health.”

his

 
hers

 

gramp

 

Gillian in FRONT of the camera

Gillian in FRONT of the camera


 
frost
 
Kramer, handsome as ever

Kramer, handsome as ever


 
dustache
 
Neil & Bob

Neil & Bob


 

EVERYONE MUSTACHE!

This post is a tribute dedicated to the memory of a dear family friend who, for as long as I can remember, wore the full compliment of mustache and beard.  We miss you, Neil.
Please mark this cause on your calendar for next year and plan to sport and support ‘Movember.’

Thank you,

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Categories: FOR A CAUSE Tagged: #Movember, For a Cause, Health

CARRIE JACOBSON ART

October 20, 2015 | 45 Comments

This month’s featured artist is truly inspirational.  Still reeling from the loss of two of her dogs Jojo and Zoe, within two weeks of each other, Carrie Jacobson has found a way to channel her grief into a new project ‘101 Dogs.’ A beautiful, creative tribute.

Beloved Jojo

Beloved Jojo

A portion of all proceeds will go to help groups that rescue, shelter and train dogs.




Thank you, Carrie, for sharing your project and the following information with us:

What inspires you?

The beauty of the natural world, and the creatures in it, are all I need to be moved to paint. The love on a dog’s face, the light on a field of ripe soybeans in autumn on the Eastern Shore, the colors of the sky and sun lighting the planes of a mountain, these sights make me catch my breath and make me want to paint.

Do you have a favourite subject(s)? If so, what is it about that subject that speaks to you?

I paint lots of things, and I think I would have to say that light is my favorite subject, generally. I try to paint not the thing itself, but the thing as it is defined and illuminated by the light. Beyond that, I love painting dogs, cows, flowers and landscapes.

I’ve just launched a big dog-painting project, so my focus is on dogs now. I love painting dogs in part because I just love them. Given a choice to spend time with most dogs I know or most people, on most days I’d pick dogs. Their hearts and souls show on their faces, and that’s why I love to paint them – and be with them. Dogs don’t lie or hesitate. They don’t complain or whine. They’re not embarrassed by their love or their hate or their need to find their place in the world.

What is your preferred medium, why?

Oil paint! I am attracted by the depth of color, the smooth quality of the paint, the way I can pile it up and give it texture and surface so it captures the light. I paint with a palette knife, and I work to build an impasto that adds to the character and voice of the painting.

Where is your favourite place to paint?

Outdoors. My best day is to drive to a place I’ve never seen, and be struck by a breathtaking view, then pull over and paint. Second best is my studio at home, with the dogs barking in the yard, and coming in to say hello and cause trouble. The dog of my heart, Jojo, was my studio dog, and spent her days in there with me while I painted when I was at home. She died in September, and my life in the studio is changed forever without her.

Artists connect with the pieces they create.  Please share with us the work(s) that are most meaningful to you (evokes positive or negative emotions) and why.

Great question. The paintings I’ve made of our own dogs, the ones who have passed and the ones who are living, are surely closest to my heart. My first painting ever, which I made nine years ago, when I was 50, is probably the most meaningful to me.

I made a painting trip to the Navajo Reservation this past winter, and painted there, and many of those paintings have deep ties to my heart, good and bad. I was born there, and went back to see what I would see, what I would feel, and whether I could draw any links from the early landscape of my life to my outlook as a painter. It was not a journey of joy, but it was one of insight.

One dog painting stands out. I donated a gift certificate for a portrait to a nonprofit group that runs an auction at a show in which I often participate. The couple who won it have a daughter whose beloved dog had just died. They had me make the painting, and then they brought their daughter to a show I was in. I hung the painting on the wall, and they showed up, with the daughter not knowing anything about their gift.

Is there anything (else) you would like people to know about Carrie Jacobson?

My project, 101 Dogs, is just taking off. I’m going to make 101 paintings of people’s dogs and collect them in a book and a poster. If you sign up at $375 or more, you get an original painting (or more), a book or poster and some other merchandise from the project (depending on your level). I will donate a portion of each purchase to a dog-related group, so it’s really good for everyone.

Artist’s favourite colour?

It seems to change! Right now, it’s yellow, though my brother has told me that if blue hadn’t been invented, I couldn’t paint.

Please click links (shared above) to learn more about Carrie and her beautiful work.

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Categories: WORKS OF ART Tagged: Art, Beautiful, Dogs, For a Cause, Gifts, Inspiration, Treasure

MAX

June 21, 2015 | 3 Comments

A ‘Must See’ Summer Movie!

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I feel honoured to have been invited by Warner Bros. Pictures Canada, to attend an advanced screening of  “Max,” a family action adventure presented by Warner Bros. Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures. 

You may have seen trailers for the movie, during which, we are introduced to a precision-trained military dog, Max, who serves on the frontlines in Afghanistan alongside his handler, U.S. Marine Kyle Wincott. When things go terribly wrong on maneuvers, Kyle is mortally wounded and Max, traumatized by the loss of his best friend, is unable to remain in service.

Sent stateside, the only human Max seems willing to connect with is Kyle’s teenage brother, Justin, so Max is saved when he is adopted by Kyle’s family. Justin has issues of his own, including living up to his father’s expectations, and he isn’t interested in taking responsibility for his brother’s troubled dog. However, Max may be Justin’s only chance to discover what really happened to his brother that day on the front, and with the help of Carmen, a tough-talking young teen who has a way with dogs, Justin begins to appreciate his canine companion.

Justin’s growing trust in Max helps the four-legged veteran revert back to his heroic self, and as the pair race to unravel the mystery, they find more excitement—and danger—than they bargained for. But they each might also find an unlikely new best friend…in each other.

“Max” stars Josh Wiggins (“Hellion”) as Justin Wincott, Lauren Graham (one of MY favourite actresses from TV’s “Parenthood”) as his mom, Pamela, and Oscar nominee Thomas Haden Church (“Sideways”) as his dad, Ray.

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION

When people connect with an animal there’s a primal bond that often goes beyond what we experience with other people,

says Boaz Yakin, the co-writer/director/executive producer of “Max.” That was the initial inspiration for the movie, which follows the journey of a MILITARY WORKING DOG (MWD) whose U.S. Marine handler loses his life in Afghanistan. Traumatized, the dog is adopted by the family the Marine left behind.

Yakin, a self-proclaimed dog-lover attests, “I wanted to tell a story that was emotional and heightened, while still keeping it rooted in reality.”

He turned to longtime friend Sheldon Lettich, who co-wrote the screenplay.

Sheldon is a Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran and brought in the idea of using MWD’s. These dogs risk their lives, or have their lives put at risk, going far ahead of their units in order to literally smell out danger,” he adds.

That instinct was reinforced when Yakin and Lettich watched one of the many viral videos of MWDs lying mournfully beside their handler’s casket at their funerals, loyal to the end and beyond. Such videos have touched a deep chord in millions of viewers around the world.

The decision to make Max a Belgian Malinois, instead of a more familiar breed such as a German Shepherd, was informed by the fact that the Malinois has become the breed of choice to serve as MWDs for military forces and law enforcement agencies across the United States and throughout the world. Leaner than a German Shepherd, the highly focused dogs, when trained, can smell drugs and bombs and find bodies. They can be deadly and are trusted to guard the White House and the President of the United States.

Before writing, Yakin and Lettich observed the dogs in action at the Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base K9 Unit in California. Driven to hunt and capture prey, the Malinois has a 270-degree field of vision and the force of its bite equals 1,400 pounds per square inch. It can run 30 miles per hour and withstand the heat of the desert.

But what happens when a MWD is unable to work anymore due to injuries, stress or trauma, which can cause Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? Thanks to Robby’s Law, which went into effect in 2000, MWDs are no longer simply euthanized. They can be adopted by their handlers or other former handlers.

They also found that some MWDs have also been adopted by the civilian families of dog handlers who had been killed in either Iraq or Afghanistan. That interested Lettich, who has also owned several Belgian Malinois, and knows from personal experience that the breed is highly energetic, intelligent, and extremely task-oriented. “It’s like a human coming back, it’s an adjustment. We wanted to follow a fictional dog home stateside after his handler’s death and see where that took the dog—and the family,” he explains.

(see link for information about adoption process)

Military & Law Enforcement Working Dog Rescue and Support

Producers Karen Rosenfelt and Ken Blancato were intrigued by the idea of a retired military search dog and the family who takes him in, and how the unlikely strangers interact to get past their loss.

Part of that vision was upping the stakes for Max, the title character, who, after losing his handler, Kyle, on the battle front finds a new friend in Kyle’s younger brother, Justin, on the home front.

Life after the U.S. Marine Corps is an adjustment for the elite, trained canines, but in Max’s case, it is particularly difficult. The trauma he faced in Afghanistan has not only left Max with PTSD, but the mystery of what happened to Max and Kyle that day inadvertently entangles Justin and his friends in a dangerous situation that escalates quickly, and tests Max and Justin’s fragile new relationship.

“The military aside, people connect with dogs so strongly,” says Yakin. “We often are able to relate to animals, and allow ourselves to be vulnerable with animals, in a way that we don’t with people.”

He continues,

Max became a metaphor for loss and for getting this family to understand and deal with that loss. And to discover what they need to do in order to reconnect with each other.”

Military handlers and their dogs are in it together. The oath says it all: Where I go, my dog goes. Where my dog goes, I go.

But for Max, the problem is he can’t go where Kyle goes anymore. Sent back to the U.S., Max is between worlds, no longer doing the job he is trained for and unfamiliar with life in a domestic setting.

Yakin notes, “Usually there is a 12 to 18 month waiting list for a civilian to adopt a retired MWD, but in our film we take some dramatic license. You usually have to jump through a lot of paperwork and hoops, even if you are a relative.”

Although his handler’s family wants to take him home, Max is uncertain how to interact in his new setting. He doesn’t trust anyone. His handler’s younger brother, Justin, is just as distrustful of the dog his parents put in his care. 

That’s where their bond—and their adventure—begins. “They don’t realize it, but they have so much in common. They both feel isolated,” Yakin states.

The filmmakers cast Josh Wiggins as Justin. “Josh is terrific,” Yakin acknowledges. “He was immediately able to walk in Justin’s shoes. He’s very comfortable with the animals and he’s a very natural, truthful actor with an instinctive sense of what works. He was able to really ground the film.”

Wiggins immediately related to the story. He not only hails from Texas, where the film is set, but has a brother who served in the army, three dogs at home, and a father who trains bomb-sniffing dogs for the Houston Police Department.

The young actor describes Justin as “a rebellious kid. Justin feels like his older brother was the trophy son and he’s overshadowed by him, so he sees himself as the outcast in the family. I think he resents his dad because his dad was a soldier, and that inspired Kyle to go into the Marine Corps. Now that Kyle is gone, Justin blames Ray in a way.”

Yakin adds, “Justin and Ray have a contentious relationship. He feels the expectations are being placed on him to live up to his father’s and brother’s ideal. He’s trying to figure out his own way and separate himself from their orbit.”

Wiggins agrees. “Justin is so unlike Kyle and so unlike Ray and doesn’t want to be what his dad wants him to be. So they clash in that regard. He wants to make his dad mad so he revolts, but he doesn’t really think about the risks involved.”

Thomas Haden Church stars as Ray, who is grieving the loss of the son who followed in his footsteps as a Marine, and having a hard time dealing with the son at home who overtly tries not to be anything like him.

“It was important that Ray have an authoritative sensibility, but also undercurrents that indicate he never quite figured his life out. He’s a frustrated ex-Marine,” notes Yakin.

Like Wiggins, Church, also a Texan, related to his character. “My dad was in the military and wounded in combat, so I drew from that. He was always looking at things from a tactical vantage point,” he shares. “Ray was wounded in Desert Storm and he carries that identity around. He’s not the most personable guy. Add to that a major shift in this nuclear family unit and suddenly no one has the old machine to rely on in relating with the other members of the family.”

Yakin says, “Sometimes you find someone and honestly can’t picture anyone else playing the role. That’s how I felt about Thomas playing Ray. He has a unique combination of vulnerability and gruff power that you see at the same time.”

The complete opposite of her husband, Pamela Wincott is the glue that’s keeping what’s left of the family together.

Lauren Graham, who stars as Pamela, was intrigued by her character, a woman who has suffered the ultimate loss—the loss of a child, with no one to comfort her. “She is in the middle, a difficult position,” Graham relates. “Ray can’t communicate and Justin is hiding behind his video games and his bad attitude. Their connection is there, but they have to be vulnerable enough to reach out and say, ‘I need you.’ She gives them a little push, but it’s definitely their process.”

Graham describes Max as “the last piece of Pamela’s son. That’s why it’s so important for Pamela to keep him safe and in the family. It’s all she has left of Kyle, whether it’s rational or not. Max challenges Justin to stop rebelling just to grow up and take care of somebody else.”

Church adds, “They are already struggling as a family and then a new element comes in, this dog. It complicates the dynamics.”

In more than one way.

Justin is having a hard time handling Max, who is also displaying behavior that speaks to his underlying trauma, such as aggression and hyper-sensitivity to loud noises. Whatever transpired that day in Afghanistan unsettled Max to his core, and no one has been able to connect with him to figure it out or help him work through it…until Justin.

Wiggins says, “To me, Max is symbolic of Justin’s brother, Kyle. He has Kyle’s character traits of honor and loyalty, and he teaches Justin to have honor and to be loyal. The closer Justin gets to Max the closer he feels to Kyle and the better he understands why Kyle wanted to be a Marine, and why he left Justin to serve his country.”

Part of Justin’s rebellion involves bootlegging video games and selling them to his friend Chuy’s thug cousin. Dejon LaQuake plays Chuy, who LaQuake describes as “the middle man. Chuy’s family is more in the hood whereas Justin is more suburban. He’s funny and cool and has Justin’s back.”

He’s also somewhat of a third wheel when Justin meets Chuy’s other cousin…a tomboy who has been kicked out of her house and is sleeping on Chuy’s couch. Mia Xitlali plays Carmen, who has a way with dogs…and Justin. “All she’s ever known, growing up, was dogs—rescuing strays, and training them, which she learned from her own brother,” Xitlali explains.

She’s tough on the outside, but when she and Justin meet, there are sparks, although neither will admit it. Xitlali says, “Justin has no idea what to think. She has a bike, she’s hanging with the guys, definitely not a girly girl. She challenges him and he doesn’t know how to respond to that. Carmen and Justin relate because she also has no one to really turn to, no guidance, no one she can really relate to except animals.”

Yakin says, “Xitlali was great. Carmen, Justin and Chuy are an interesting trio of friends going through what teens go through and she brought a lot to that. She was also a natural with the dogs.”

Carmen shows Justin how to gain Max’s trust and train him. “She realizes it’s time to be leader of the pack and show the boys how it’s done, “Xitlali smiles. “She knows Justin really wants to get to know Max because it’s all he has left of his brother.”

Just when Max seems to become calmer, the arrival of Kyle’s fellow soldier Tyler Harne re-triggers Max’s PTSD. Justin, too, becomes agitated because Tyler has the easy relationship with Ray that Kyle had, reinforcing Justin’s feeling that he is the outcast in the family.

Tyler comes back from Afghanistan—wounded—so now he and Ray have another bond: they’re both wounded soldiers. Yakin observes, “They can relate on a whole new level. And that adds another layer of frustration for Justin, and puts another kink in the family dynamic.”

Luke Kleintank plays Tyler, who was not only Kyle’s best friend but joined the Marines with him and served in the same unit. “Kyle was the good boy. Tyler was the bad boy. I think he always wanted to be like him, that’s why he was over at Kyle’s house a lot with the family. That was essentially something he yearned for and never got in his own family,” says Kleintank.

Rounding out the human cast are Robbie Amell as Kyle Wincott; Jay Hernandez as Sgt. Reyes of the Marine K9 unit; Owen Harn as local law enforcement official, Deputy Stack; and Joseph Julian Soria as Emilio, Chuy’s cousin, and the gang member whose illegal activities cause trouble for Justin and his friends.

And then there’s Max…

It was important Max’s markings allow for his expressive face to be seen because so much would need to be emoted through his eyes. While the classic Malinois has more of a mask, Yakin wanted one that had less black around the face.

Having worked with Forbes on “Marley and Me,” Rosenfelt was confident he and his team would deliver. “He finds and trains the best dogs and his humanity with the animals brings the best atmosphere to making the film,” she attests.

Forbes searched nationwide for a young canine that could be trained and had that specific look. He found a 2 year old dog in Kentucky, named Carlos, who was lovable, curious, and so focused he had been named after Carlos Hatchcock, the Vietnam War sniper who had 93 confirmed kills and was known for his incredible concentration.

Forbes flew to Liberty Dog Camp in Kentucky to put the dog through some paces and decided Carlos was trainable. He sent photos of Carlos back to Yakin, and Yakin flew to meet the dog. “I loved him,” says the director. “He was our Max. He got all the close-ups and is the face everybody will recognize.”

Supporting Canine Cast…

Next, Forbes had to find stunt doubles for Max. “Each of the dogs is proficient at different things and were used for that specific behavior. But because the film is so dog intense, they were also cross-trained and switched out to ensure their health and safety,” explains Forbes. For example, when it got too hot out, or when a dog had exerted himself enough.

Pax and Jagger were used almost as much as Carlos, because, says Forbes, “there’s so much action in this film that three or four dogs are required to play the lead part. For instance, Jagger did the scene in the cage when Max gets upset and backs away from Justin.

Dude was chosen because he is a great stunt dog who can jump over fences and knock guys down. Chaos was chosen to run. “He’s the fastest we have and sometimes the camera couldn’t keep up with him,” Forbes attests. Pilot was chosen for her youthful exuberance.

In addition to the Belgian Malinois, the script called for two Rottweilers. Atlas plays Draco, the predominant foe Max comes up against in an effort to protect Justin and his family. Atlas runs with another Rottweiler, named Loki, portrayed by Odin. The Rottweilers also had doubles so the dogs could be switched out and rest. Ebony doubled as Draco; Loki’s doubles were Ursa and Greta.

And last, but not least, Ruscoe, Angel, Daisy, Dane, Mo-Mo and Blaster portray very engaging Chihuahuas that Carmen has rescued and trained.

Once the dogs were cast, Forbes and his team started working with all the canines about sixteen weeks ahead of principal photography. And, while he enjoys all the breeds, Forbes says of the Belgian Malinois, “They are incredible and the most athletic dog I have been around. Malinois have three drives, each to a different degree: hunt, prey and defense. Trainers use the hunt drive to teach the scent, and the prey drive for the attack work. Defense is barking, holding their ground. For the film, we’re teaching them to sit, stay, go hit your mark, look at the actor—very trained and very specific, intricate behavior, whereas in military and police work they’re actually teaching them to do a job, like sniffing bombs.”

In the film, Max is a specialized search dog. A MWD with this specific skill is trained to go out 300 yards in front of his handler off leash. Forbes and his team worked for a month on just the basics to prepare the dogs to work off leash like a MWD.

Training extended to the actors as well, to teach them how to work with the dogs. “For us it’s always a very collaborative thing,” says Forbes. “To make it look real, we need the actor after every scene to recreate it again for us and ‘pay’ the dog, so that the dog starts to relate to the actor.”

Wiggins worked with the animal trainers on the film to learn how to motivate the dog in each scene, and how to reward him. “You put a treat up on your forehead so the dog will make eye contact with you and then you feed the dog,” the actor details. “These dogs are geniuses. They are so well trained, they are amazing. We had so much trust in them and in the trainers.”

He laughs, adding, “Sometimes when the dog was off camera, they would put a big stuffed animal for me to react to instead, which was weird, but funny.”

Additionally, Wiggins accompanied his father to the Houston Police Department dog training facility and ran with the dogs who were training in the bomb scenarios to get more comfortable with how they worked. “It was really cool,” he relates.

Forbes felt the young actors were well-prepared and did a great job with their four-legged co-stars. “To be honest, it’s hard to act with an animal in a scene because we’re over there making gestures, being in eye-lines and talking to the dog and sometimes talking over lines,” Forbes explains. “Josh was so gracious. He was great with the dogs, and so was Mia. Her character is somewhat of a dog whisperer, so we worked with Mia early on and spent quite a bit of time with her and the dogs so she felt comfortable. The dogs really took to her.”

Mia particularly bonded with Carlos. “Working with the dogs just added to the fun of doing the film,” says Xitlali. “I love dogs, so seeing all the different dogs and how they work was cool. They all have their unique personalities, and Carlos was just a sweetheart. We became besties during rehearsals.” 

Aside from the training, Forbes and his staff also made sure all the canines’ needs were well cared for, including setting up their own kennel on location, and building their own dog runs.

Another issue was making sure the dogs were taken care of in the heat. Shooting conditions were not ideal due to inordinately high temperatures, and the team very often coped with severe weather conditions.

“We had a tent set up with air conditioning, so that as soon as a scene was done we’d take the dog in,” says Forbes. “We also had our vans close by and they were always running the air conditioning; we could put the dogs inside for awhile to cool their body temperatures back down.”

Ron Simons was the animal and safety representative for The American Humane Association. “This set was extraordinary,” he states. “Both the director and the second unit director are very animal-conscious and both bent over backwards to make sure that the animals’ comfort was taken into consideration. The cast and crew was also incredible. There was quite a bond between them and the animals.”

In the story, as Max begins to trust Justin and bond with him, the dog’s instinct to protect and serve resurfaces—and he does just that, defending Justin and his family. One sequence in particular shows the loyalty Max has begun to feel for them, though, ironically, the filming of it was anything but defensive in terms of the animals’ behavior.

Forbes describes the scene, in which Max is fighting the gang-owned Rotweillers to protect Justin and his family, as “play fighting.” Pilot, the female Malinois and Odin, the Rottweiler, simulated the fighting. “Pilot was about 9 months old and Odin was about a year-and-a-half old, and they just loved each other and loved to play. Dogs tussle when they play; they roll around and are expressive with their teeth and mouth. If you lay in the right sound effects to that, it looks and sounds like a ferocious dog fight, when in reality they are just doing what they do in the dog run every day. Having fun.”

Yakin says,

There’s something about identifying with an animal that allows us to drop our judgments and inhibitions, and often our cynicism. And if we can drop those, we can bridge whatever gap there is with the people in our lives, as well.”

Also worth mentioning; The Imagine Dragons, who’s song ‘Aloha’ is part of the film’s soundtrack, are animal lovers.  They sponsored a rescue dog named ‘Waggy Draggy.’

Thank you Kenn Bell, creator of ‘The Dog Files’ for inviting us to share this information with our followers.

The Dog Files

We can’t wait to attend the screening of this movie to be released June 26, 2015

IMAGE

#MaxtheHero

Max – The Movie

US War Dogs

FYI- please make sure to understand all the facts, a situation has been circulating and has gone viral, I would like to…

Posted by Retired Military Working Dogs on Saturday, February 25, 2012

Categories: BOOKS & ENTERTAINMENT Tagged: Beautiful, Best Friend, Faithful, Family, For a Cause, Loyal, Max The Hero, PTSD, Rescue, Safe, Trust

A FUR THING! The Awareness Project

May 30, 2015 | 12 Comments

EGO VS. ETHICS

#sponsored post

Photo courtesy of Gillian Woods. Headband courtesy of Melanie Millinery. Headband and coat are FAKE FUR!

While coming up with ideas for this post, my mind kept drifting to US WEEKLY’s celebrity poll ‘who wore it best.’  Who does wear fur better?  The winner is the animal whom the pelt belonged to in the first place, of course!!!

In some areas of the world, such as the three territories of Canada (Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon), resources are scarce.  The coldest recorded temperature was -63 °C (-81.4 F).  In these cases, the killing of animals is carried out, in accordance with The Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS).  No part of the animal is wasted, and the people of the Yukon are respectful of the animal.  In these cases, it is a matter of survival.

Back in the world of easy living, a large number of people consider fur to be fashionable and go out of their way to find it.  Perhaps they don’t realize the inhumane manner in which most ‘fur-farmed’ pelts are obtained.  Perhaps we just need to educate people.

They know (says Melanie Corbett, Milliner from Manchester, England).  The people who were asking me for REAL fur are the ‘type’ of a group that we, unfortunately, have in this country now. We call them ‘WAGS’ which is a term used for Footballers ‘Wives And Girlfriends.’ There are ALOT of young and older women who fit this type, i.e., long blonde hair extensions, false breasts, fake eyelashes, botox, lips pumped up with whatever!

They were trying my hats on and wanted to purchase them but didn’t because my fur is fake!!! I said to each and EVERY one of them ‘I don’t use real fur as I know that most of the animals are skinned alive.’
I was horrified that 90% of them did not bat an eyelid at all. Then they would ask me if I knew anyone selling real fur!!!!! Aaaarrrrggghhhh! !! So to answer your question. …no they don’t care.

It is horrific that because a lot of models are now wearing fur again, that the real WAGS are doing so and now all the ‘wannabes’ want it as well.

How can we educate people who are shallow and vacuous?

How could anyone possibly feel glamorous wearing an article of clothing that was literally peeled from the body of an animal? Especially when the fur was removed while the animal is still alive.

Many fur farms allegedly skin animals alive to keep the pelts intact from damage that could occur while killing them.

SUCH IRONY! Fake people wear real fur!!! Sigh – very sad that even when faced with the ugly truth, people still choose to make unethical decisions.

Sadly, Celebrities are in the spotlight and have the opportunity to make a difference and set a positive example.  It seems, for some (unknown) reason; we have taken two steps back, and it is once again ‘cool’ to wear fur!  More like ‘cruel.’  We, the general public do not have to follow their influence.  REAL (humane) PEOPLE FAKE FUR!!!

Here are the facts, you decide:
•Each year, more than 50 million animals are killed for their fur.  Rabbits guessed to be in the billions killed each year.
•Animals killed for their fur include but not limited to) beavers, foxes, minks, rabbits, and raccoons.
•To kill animals without damaging their fur, trappers will strangle, beat, or stomp them to death. The animals (on fur farms) TORTURED; gassed, poisoned, electrocuted, or have their necks snapped.
•Ranch-raised animals live in cages about 2 feet square, with up to four animals per cage.
•There is no federal law that regulates the killing of animals raised for fur.
•It can take up to 40 animals to make one fur coat.


FAUX BEAUTIFUL

I am very proud to state that the fur used in the images of this post are completely fake!  No animals harmed.

Some things ARE worth faking.  Here are a few more of Melanie’s beautiful creations.


 


#SPONSORED
Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received a Faux Fur Headband / Neckwarmer / Earwarmer from MelanieMillinery as an collaborative effort to generate awareness for this topic. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. We did not receive monetary compensation for this review.  It is our choice, and a pleasure 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.

https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/MelanieMillinery 

To learn how Gillian created the photo for this month’s awareness piece visit:

https://www.facebook.com/gillyfacephotos

http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-style/news/kendall-jenner-chrissy-teigen-wear-same-fur-coat-photos–2015202

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fur_Institute_of_Canada

http://www.lcanimal.org/index.php/campaigns/fur/fur-trade-facts

http://www.respectforanimals.co.uk/facts-and-reports/fur-farming/53/

 

 

Categories: THE AWARENESS PROJECT Tagged: #Sponsored, Awareness, For a Cause

A SAFE PLACE

March 9, 2015 | 26 Comments

INTRODUCING REDROVER

Domestic Violence

What would you do if your safety meant risking the life of your best friend?

When facing difficult times, we are lucky to have friends to turn to. Sometimes, it’s our animal companions that bring us the most comfort (no judgment, no discussion, just a friend to sit with us in our times of need). In the case of domestic violence, victims become alienated from friends and family members;

Abusers will often move their victim and the children away from the victim’s family and friends.

Abusers encourage, coerce, limit contact with and lie to alienate their victim from their support systems (friends and family). These tactics give the abuser the ability to maintain control over their victim

We are quick to judge, wondering why victims of abuse don’t just leave! Abusers take away a victim’s confidence; they make victims feel the abuse is justified, and the victim is at fault. Abusers convince victims they are the cause of the attacks. Abusers threaten to harm or even kill animal companions if the victim leaves.

So they stay.

A few months ago, I was contacted by a follower (of my blog) who was brave enough to make the decision to leave an abusive situation and wanted help finding resources. Although she was made to feel insignificant, she found the courage to ask for help.

We judge people who surrender their animal companions, without considering that, in some situations it is actually the best thing to do. Sadly, for too many people this is the case. They make the difficult decision to say goodbye in order to keep them safe.

Thankfully, there is support available for victims of violence AND their companions. I was so glad to know of one such organization that could help her. SafePlaceforPets.org connects people and pets with a safe escape from domestic violence. SafePlaceforPets.org is a RedRover project with the National Link Coalition and Sheltering Animals and Families Together (SAF-T).

RedRover staff and volunteers provide soft hands and warm hearts when animals and people are in need, crisis and pain. We bring animals out of a crisis and into care, and discover new ways to strengthen the common bond between people and animals through these programs

RedRover Programs also include:

RedRover Relief – Provides financial and emotional support to Good Samaritans, animal rescuers and pet owners to help them care for animals in life-threatening situations

RedRover Responders – Shelters and cares for animals displaced by natural disasters and other crises, such as criminal seizures and hoarding cases, in the United States and Canada.

RedRover Readers – A unique community-based literacy program that helps children explore the bond between people and animals through stories and discussion.

Resource Video – http://www.redrover.org/redrover-relief-domestic-violence-resources

The world would be darker and colder without the many good deeds provided by the RedRover team.

Thank you Bailey Mannisto-Ichés, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator at RedRover for sharing the following information with us:

When was RedRover established?
RedRover was founded in 1987.

Mission of Organization
The mission of RedRover is to bring animals out of a crisis and strengthen the bond between people and animals through emergency sheltering, disaster relief services, financial assistance, and education. RedRover accomplishes its mission by engaging volunteers and supporters, collaborating with others and maximizing the use of online technology.

Domestic Abuse is a very delicate situation. Please describe how you learn about situations and the process of providing assistance is carried out. For example, do you work closely with a team of law enforcement officers and lawyers as well as animal control to ensure everyone’s safety?
Our case managers work directly with victim advocates to provide Safe Escape grants to victims escaping an abusive environment with their pets. SafePlaceforPets.org is an online directory connecting advocates, victims and concerned citizens to the closest pet-friendly domestic violence resources in their area.

Are you able to share an inspirational (happy ending) story with us? How is the program funded?

Clover

http://redrover.org/article/your-support-saved-clover-abuse

After living in fear of abuse and violence for months, Andrea* said, “enough.” She was ready to escape her batterer, but only if she could bring her little terrier mix, Clover, with her. When Andrea learned that Metropolitan Center for Women and Children in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, could accept pets thanks to a RedRover Relief Safe Housing grant, Andrea scooped up Clover and escaped safely to the domestic violence shelter.

Clover received lots of attention and daily walks while at the shelter, and Clover’s presence made it easier for Andrea to adjust to life after abuse. After settling in at Metropolitan Center, staff and advocates worked to help Andrea achieve a fresh start by helping her find a pet-friendly apartment and even a new job – giving Clover the chance start anew as well. When Clover and Andrea were ready to leave, the Safe Housing grant from RedRover allowed the shelter to provide Clover with a transportable kennel, sweater, leash, harness, food and toys to start her new life. Staff from Metropolitan Center for Women and Children reported, “As of this date, Clover and her mom are doing well – better, in fact – on their own.”

*Names have been changed to protect identity

For people who might be wondering how they can help – even if their time is limited, what would you suggest and how can they apply to assist?

If you suspect that someone you know is being abused, speak up! If you’re hesitant – telling yourself that it’s none of your business, you might be wrong, or the person might not want to talk about it – keep in mind that expressing your concern will let the person know that you care and may even save his or her life and the life of their pets.

We do a lot of outreach via email and social media. Each October we participate in domestic violence awareness month, and the more social sharing we have to build awareness of the issue of pets and domestic violence the better! You can sign up for our general email newsletter at RedRover.org/Email. We also participate in various third-party fundraisers and donation programs, including SurveyMonkey which brings a considerable amount of donations into RedRover yearly, simply by having our members complete surveys. It requires very little time and makes a huge difference to animals.

For more information on other partnerships and fundraisers check out http://www.redrover.org/Partnerships-and-fundraisers


What are some issues that frustrate you when it comes to the welfare and rescue of victims of abuse and their animal companions?   What are your thoughts on how these issues might be addressed and overcome?

Relevant statistics on domestic violence and animal abuse:

  • 52 percent of victims in shelters leave their pets with their batterers (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)
  • Up to 65 percent of domestic violence victims are unable to escape their abusers because they are concerned about what will happen to their pets when they leave (Carlisle-Frank, Frank and Nielsen, 2004)
  • 71 percent of pet-owning women entering women’s shelters reported that their batterer had injured, maimed, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control victims; 32 percent reported their children had hurt or killed animals (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)

Most domestic violence shelters do not provide on-site shelter for animals, which is why RedRover is partnering with SAF-T to work toward the goal of having one pet-friendly domestic violence shelter in each state. In 2014 we were able to help by funding shelters in three states. We are still working on 13 more!

More info at: RedRover.org/SafeHousing

The Link
The discovery of animal abuse – a horrible crime in itself, can lead investigators to uncover further violence within the home.  Abuse of animals may indicate other forms of abuse taking place within the home; domestic violence, child abuse and elder abuse.  This is referred to as ‘The Link.’

This link between human and animal abuse is extremely important to recognize when investigating any type of violence, as it may uncover more victims below the surface. According to SpotAbuse.org, up to 76 percent of animal abusers also abuse a member of their family.

“When we recognize ‘the link,’ animal welfare groups and human services agencies can work together to break the cycle of violence,” said Esperanza Zúñiga, RedRover Relief’s program manager and advocate for the animal victims of domestic violence.

More info at: http://redrover.org/article/what-deadly-link

Resources: http://redrover.org/redrover-relief-domestic-violence-resources

Thank you RedRover for all aspects of assistance you provide through your programs.  Thank you for providing hope to those individuals who may be without.

 

Categories: ADOPTABLES, RESCUE GROUPS & SHELTERS Tagged: Believe, Best Friend, For a Cause, Goodwill, Heart, Hope, Love, Protect, Rescue, Safe, Trust

LOVE & PROTECT – The Awareness Project

February 20, 2015 | 40 Comments

A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS

Introducing a twelve month photographic project to generate awareness and initiate positive changes.

Tattoo
Every picture tells a story – what is yours?

Each month, starting in May, 2015 we will be hosting a year-long photographic project to generate awareness about various causes around the world.  Creative, Colourful, and Black and White photos from professional and amateur photographers – all styles and all issues welcome.  Contribute every month or just once, or twice.

Gillian and I will be collaborating on the cause of ‘Animal Welfare.’

Photographs must not show any person(s) or animal(s) to be under duress; in real-life scenarios of danger. Any photo of an animal or person that seems to be in distress or an unsafe situation will not be included, and the submission will be forwarded to authorities.

The idea is to create images that draw the viewer’s attention and peak their curiosity, generating awareness for your cause by captivating your audience. Sadly, the vivid and graphic images of ‘real-life’ situations are too much for most people.  They shut down and look away.  We want to create a platform where people will take notice and learn how they can help, how they can become a part of the movement.  Be creative!

SUBMISSIONS AND GALLERY FEATURE

Submit your photo by email (address provided below). In the subject line include the month for which you are contributing and in as few words as possible, the name of your cause (i.e. May – Domestic Violence). Month relates to Her and Her Dog’s publication; please feel free to contribute to any of these titles, at any time.

A gallery of submissions will be created and photographs relating to your chosen cause shared, based on the theme ‘Sins & Virtues.’ If you are a blogger or photographer with a website, please include a link and I will happily share.

May – PRIDE

June – ENVY

July – GLUTTONY

August – LUST

September – ANGER (postponed)

October – GREED

November – COURAGE & JUSTICE (postponed)

December – SLOTH

January – LOVE, HOPE & FAITH

February – HUMILITY, KINDNESS & PATIENCE

March – CHARITY, LIBERALITY & DILIGENCE

April – FORTITUDE, TEMPERERNCE & PRUDENCE

Please share this initiative and invite others to participate in this project.  We look forward to seeing all of the creative images.

Submit images to sadiemae.co@gmail.com

Click GillyFace Photos to see more of Gillian’s creative work.

 

 

Categories: THE AWARENESS PROJECT Tagged: Art, Beautiful, Cats, Dogs, Family, For a Cause, Forever Home, Goodwill, Heart, Hope, Inspiration, Rescue, Safe, Selfless Acts of Kindness

SANTA’S SLEIGH HAS WINGS!

December 9, 2014 | Leave a Comment

INTRODUCING PILOTS N PAWS CANADA

http://youtu.be/ODhr2UD4vAs

How blessings brighten as they take their flight – Edward Young.

Santa’s mission is one of the most important of the year; delivering toys to well-behaved children across the world – and the not so well-behaved children.  Everyone deserves a chance to experience hope and feel loved!

Santa could not complete the task on his own and relies on the help of his team: Mrs. Claus, the elves and of course his herd of flying reindeer.

Equally warm-hearted Samaritans are the Pilots N Paws Canada team who work tirelessly together to ensure animals in danger are relocated to safety.  I have contacted founder Gini Green, and Senior Transport Coordinator Deanna Bliuvas on several occasions and have received a response the same day.  Often within the hour!

It is hardly surprising that Gini and her team are so reactive.  The coordination of ground transportation, flight crew, and rescue organizations is a lot to oversee.  Especially considering the distance across which some of these missions occur.  Extreme time management skills are required and demonstrated daily.

Thank you, Gini and Deanna for taking the time to speak with me about Pilots N Paws Canada.

When was Pilots N Paws Canada established?  What inspired you to start the organization?

Gini Green launched Pilots N Paws Canada on June 15th, 2012 as a result of working with Deanna earlier in the year.  The two women worked on a rescue mission for another organization involving more than 25 sled dogs that needed transport from Quebec to BC.  Gini says, “The project turned out to be one and a half months of the most intense work ever!”  It was expensive and time-consuming and although successful, Gini decided there had to be a better way.  Gini contacted Debi Boies the Co-founder of Pilots N Paws in the US.  With Gini’s background in rescue, Debi felt a Canadian Pilots N Paws program would do well with Gini leading the way.  And so began Pilots N Paws Canada.  Debi was happy to give her license and support by way of their trademarked branding and Green launched Pilots N Paws Canada as a Canadian run and operated, stand-alone organization.

Mission of Organization

To provide free air transport support to Canadian rescues and shelters for their injured, stray, abandoned, and abused animals – including wildlife.  Gini says, “if someone will fly them we will consider it.”

The transport of animals between vast distances would be a large undertaking for just one person.  Pilots N Paws Canada is a large team of people networking and working together in relay fashion.   How big is your team and in what capacity do members participate?

The organization is comprised of two groups; private planes with owner/pilots and commercial flights with Petscorts.  Currently, there are more than 190 volunteer pilots registered with PNPC across Canada.  Everyone on the team is a volunteer.

Deanna, based in Osgoode Ontario, is the Senior Transport Coordinator for Ontario and Eastern Canada.   This role involves working with the many different types of rescue groups and pilots located in those regions to collect current information and documentation (veterinary records, etc.).  Deanna organizes everything from drop off in the beginning to the pick-up details at the other end.  Including temporary fosters, ground transport to and from air fields, equipment aspects to providing advice on safe ways to transport a particular animal.  Assistance is provided by Louise Shane, a PNPC Transport Coordinator from Almonte, Ontario.

Gini Green, based on Gabriola Island off the BC coast, handles all transports coming west from Manitoba to BC with the help of Shelly Loree another Transport Coordinator out of Airdre, Alberta.

Sometimes the pilots of the smaller planes are not able to take on a request due to distance or bad weather conditions.  That is when members of the Petscort program assist.

Vicki Baker is the Senior Transport Coordinator for Petscorts and is based in Nova Scotia.  Vicki works with volunteers from the general public who are taking commercial flights for business or pleasure.  Coordinating with the commercial airlines, she helps rescue organizations and shelters fly animals that are added to the volunteer passengers’ tickets.  Matching up the rescue/shelter needs with available flights is a major juggling act but more people are becoming aware of the need.  Currently, Vicky is contacted by several regular travelers before they take a flight, to inquire as to whether there is an animal they can help transport.  These passengers are called PETSCORTS.

Petscorts are met at the airport by the transporting rescue organization with proper crates and documentation for travel.  They are also met at the other end of their flight.  An easy, yet incredibly valuable gift provided by Petscorts.  Vicky is assisted with her activities by Janice Templeman in the Ottawa region and Nicole Wilks in Kelowna BC.

The entire team of transport coordinators is spread out across our country to provide the best use of time differences possible.  All these women do this on a voluntary basis and get as much joy out of seeing a successful transport as the rescues do.

What security measures are in place to ensure the safety of animals (and Petscorts) during transportation?  For example screening, training workshops or online training seminars?

Rescues are required to provide veterinary records and current documentation regarding the condition of the animal being transported.  The information is recorded and accessible by all members of the team so that, at a moment’s notice; another person can pick up and go if needed.

Transport can be less stressful on animals when flying in small private planes. They have the dull steady sound of the engine and calming environment with the pilot.  Many pilots have noticed a positive change in a dog’s physiology from the time they are picked up to the time they are dropped off.  The dogs seem calmer as if they know they are safe and going somewhere good.

The other benefit to flying in smaller airplanes; they normally go through small airfields rather than major airports.  Meaning there is a reduced threat to the general public health wise.

Most of our pilot volunteers work in professional fields and are very respectful of the safety measures and protocols we have put in place.  All animals must be secured during flight, of course, so we use crates or harness restraints to keep them from hopping in a pilot’s lap during the trip or moving around the cabin.

The Transport Coordinators go through several weeks of training and have access to a training manual that covers most situations.  Working as a team means there is always someone more senior who can offer advice.  We have learned that no two flights are the same, so we try to maintain best practices and allow for flexibility in special situations.   For example, an emergency flight for an injured animal can’t be delayed for two weeks of quarantine.  Instead, we would have the pilot, and all involved, follow special instructions on how to prepare the plane interior, how the animal is to be handled etc.  We do our best to follow international standards for safe transportation of animals.  Volunteers are shadowed, when putting together their first few transports until they acquire the confidence and knowledge to handle things on their own.

As a registered Petscort, I am aware that the terms ‘typical’ and ‘generally’ do not apply.  Each situation is unique.   Can you describe to readers what the work entails, the transportation process and requirements?

The Pilots N Paws Canada Transportation Coordinator will liaise with Rescue Organizations and Pilots and work out schedules, destinations and any special requirements (medication requirements, etc.).  There is a forum where requests for ground transport assistance are posted.  Pilots, and Petscorts in and around these areas can log on and offer to assist with sections of the relay.  The forum can be reached at www.pilotsnpawscanadaforum.com

Unfortunately, there may be some turbulence within this well-organized process; weather can make things difficult; strong wind over the lakes and our Canadian below freezing temperatures.  Also, remote locations where no one is around is also a challenge as it can prove unsafe for a pilot to have to land where there is no fuel or help available.  Pilots N Paws demonstrates strong determination and will and do what they can to come up with plans B and C in such cases.  They have been known to even go up to plan H in some cases, rejuggling to fit a rescue groups needs.

How is the program funded?

PNPC does not receive any formal funding.  They, like most, non profit organizations, rely on donations from the general public to keep things going.

Unlike rescue organizations, which have veterinary costs to deal with, PNPC’s running costs are small (less than $10,000/year).  Even so, running any organization, getting the word out to encourage more pilots to join and generating awareness to rescues across Canada become familiar with the program does cost money.

Pilots N Paws Canada do try other fund raising activities to reduce costs including their online ‘Anniversary Auction,’ featuring amazing products and beautiful Canadian artwork donated by supporters across the country.

They also offer items like a clothing line through a Canadian company Garage Rocks,’ that specializes in working with non- profit groups.  They make the product available to the general public and pay PNPC a percentage of each sale. http://www.garagerockapparel.com/stores/pilots-n-paws-canada/

The thing that makes these trips possible is that each pilot donates hundreds of dollars of their  own money to cover fuel costs and landing fees for these flights.

PNPC has a goal set for 2015 to help offset some of the costs for travel to harder to reach remote locations.  They plan to do this by starting a special Fur Flying Fuel Fund.  Donors will know that 100% of their donation will go directly towards making a flight happen.  Each flight costs approximately $150-$350 per hour.  Donors will be able to select the amount they wish to contribute.  Ideally, a group or a company might sponsor an entire flight.  Similar to the expense incurred by our pilots, these contributors  would also be eligible for a tax receipt for their donation.

As a fellow volunteer, I understand there are days that can be overwhelming, and it may be hard to stay focused and positive.  Tell us about a story that inspires you – one that warms your heart and reminds you why you do what you do.

There have been so many success stories that were one of a kind, it is hard for Gini and Deanna to choose just one.  Both agree the story of Nala was incredibly emotional and inspirational.

http://www.pilotsnpawscanada.com/2012/10/26/nala/

Nala

What are some issues that frustrate you when it comes to the welfare and rescue of animals?   What are your thoughts on how these issues might be addressed and overcome?

Overpopulation of animals due to people not being responsible and not having their pets spayed/neutered.  The irrational desire to breed their own pet which will likely result in a hundred homeless animals being euthanized or spending their short lives in shelters unwanted.  There are only so many homes available – more people need to adopt and not shop for their new pet.

The lack of awareness by the general public that many puppy mills exist here in Canada.  There are also many hoarding situations in every province that rescues continually need to step up to help.  Homes are needed for the survivors of these horrible situations.

Saddest of all is the culling of regular dogs, where unwanted and abandoned dogs are shot and killed.  These things are all happening in our country yet most of the general public is unaware.

We need more media interest and coverage to make the general public aware of the issues happening here in Canada.

For people who might be wondering how they can help – even if their time is limited, what would you suggest and how can they apply to assist?

Wherever people are in their lives, there is a rescue group or shelter that would benefit from their support.  There are so many groups that take care of a wide range of animals, specializing in their care and helping to rehome them into a perfect situation. West Coast Rottweiler’s who focus on the black and tan dogs, Friendly Giants who specialize in large breeds.  Small Animal Rescue who take care of the bunnies, chinchillas, hedgehogs and all things furry and small, reptile rescues, horse rescues, exotic bird rescues.  There are also many wonderful wildlife rescues that all could use a helping hand.  Donations of crates, food, towels, blankets, leashes, and toys.  To have all these things provided would make a difference for groups with small to no budget.

PNPC themselves are always looking for volunteers to become part of their team of Transport Coordinators.  There are also many events that PNPC gets invited to attend across the country so having people volunteer to attend a one or two-day event to assist our team is extremely valuable to us.

There are many ways any person can become involved. Including becoming a PETSCORT!

Do you mind sharing with us your goals for the future?

To help MORE, in MORE areas and to expand the team.  More Pilots and Petscorts mean more animals are transported to safety.

Short term goal: To implement the Fuel Fund in 2015 to help offset costs for the volunteer pilots.

Long term goal: To be able to expand our support to Spay/Neuter Clinics across the country.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about PNP Canada?

Pilots N Paws Canada are in the semi-finals in the AVIVA contest.  Their goal is to draw attention to the issues and help six remote communities with spay and neuter.  http://tinyurl.com/voteforpilotsnpawscanada 

The event ends Dec 10 (tomorrow).  PLEASE VOTE FOR THEM!

Team members offer encouragement and support to one other.  Encouragement is especially important during winter months when travel is put on hold due to poor weather conditions.  The team ensures morale does not waiver and spirits remain high.  The missions performed by the team often mean the difference between life and death for many animals.  The Pilots N Paws Canada team celebrates each successfully completed mission and does not hesitate for a moment before scheduling the next transport.  In fact, there are often several transports being arranged at one time.  A true-north strong spirit indeed!

Each mission is different and may have a variety of requirements.  Depending on flights arrival and departure times, a foster home may be required for the animal(s) being transported until the final leg of the journey can be completed.  Members of each mission are selected based on location and availability, ensuring the transport is as seamless as possible.

I am proud to be a registered Petscort with Pilots and Paws.  Although I have not yet been scheduled to assist with transport, I continue to check the forum and will respond to transport postings I am able to assist.  That’s okay; Rudolph was an underdog too.  When called upon that foggy Christmas Eve, he proudly led his team ensuring another successful mission.

Pilot’s N Paws Canada have completed more than 500 missions and continue to work hard throughout the year to transport animals to safety.  Success stories such as Nala’s will truly warm your heart this holiday season – the season of giving.

Well done Pilot’s N Paws Canada, your generosity and beautiful tales of rescue will go down in history!

To find out more about Pilots N Paws Canada, and how you can register to become a Petscort or assist as a Pilot, please visit their website http://www.pilotsnpawscanada.com/

Categories: ADOPTABLES, RESCUE GROUPS & SHELTERS Tagged: Canada, Dogs, For a Cause, Forever Home, Foster, Goodwill, Hope, Inspiration, Journey, Loyal, Pets, Rescue, Safe, Selfless Acts of Kindness, Trust

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

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