Her & Her Dogs

PLUS THE CAT - RESCUES ADVOCATING FOR RESCUES

WISHES FOR MY BEAUTIFUL LITTLE VALENTINE

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY, REESE.  I WILL CELEBRATE YOU, ALWAYS

Today (February 12th), we should be celebrating my little Valentine’s twelfth birthday.  Instead, I’m grieving the loss of her.

Birthday Girl

Yes, Reese was getting older, she had slowed down considerably, and we had made certain adjustments to accommodate and comfort her.  For example, we carried her upstairs to bed and limited the amount of fetch she played; although, she was reluctant to oblige these ‘time outs’ and would bark in protest.

Reese was slower than usual, last Wednesday evening but still wanted to play fetch. Her spirit was willing; her little body was struggling to keep up. She drank water and ate her dinner.  Reese was resting more than usual, that evening; although, restless through the night.

Reese was displaying symptoms of (what we hoped was just) an upset stomach. She wasn’t interested in breakfast, on Thursday morning. She has declined on previous occasions, and whatever was ailing her usually passed before the following meal. Reese did go outside to do her business, had a drink of water, and rested on her bed.  I went to work.  As soon as our vet clinic opened, I called and booked an appointment for the next day. Our dog walker messaged later that day, to say there were accidents on the rug.  I received a phone call from our vet clinic at 1:30 pm asking if we were on our way. Due to miscommunication, the clinic thought we were coming that same day.

I’m now wondering: what if I had just left work that morning and driven the forty-five minutes home, put Reese in the car, and drove the one and a half hours to our vet clinic. Would she still be here?

My husband insisted on picking up a cooked chicken for Reese for supper.  His effort was futile; she wasn’t interested.

The next morning, Reese struggled to jump up onto the porch after doing her business. She ‘chested’ the wooden porch, and dragged her little body up the step. After recovering from the mishap, she walked back into the kitchen. Could this mishap have escalated her decline?

I wrapped Reese in a blanket and placed her in the passenger seat of my car, and we headed for the clinic.

Unfortunately, Reese’s vet was away. We saw another Doctor, and blood-work was done — no definitive answers were provided. I was told the emergency clinic would likely put her on saline i.v. and keep her overnight for 24-48 hours to rehydrate. Due to Reese’s heart murmur, I was advised to take her to an emergency clinic with a Cardiologist. That meant a two-hour drive to Mississauga, or, a three-hour drive to Guelph. After waiting for another hour, I was advised that neither clinic had a Cardiologist working, that day. Eventually, I was told we would be accepted at an emergency clinic just over an hour away. At this stage, Reese was still somewhat alert, although definitely, very poorly. Reese looked at me as the vet tech carried her away. This was the last time she would look at me and fully recognize her mama.

My husband met me at the emergency clinic, and we waited for an update. After what seemed like forever, the vet tech returned and told us they were running more tests and had put Reese on oxygen as she was having difficulty breathing. The emergency clinic vet came to speak with us in that room they put you in when you’re about to receive bad news. And, it was. Reese was in cardiac failure. We wanted to bring her home and have the mobile vet come to the house so we could all say our goodbyes, together. The vet suggested that it wasn’t an option as Reese was struggling to breathe without the oxygen. We didn’t want her to suffer. When we saw Reese again, we knew it was the right thing to do – for her. I held her in my arms, and we said goodbye to our beautiful, sweet girl. I am heartbroken.

Goodbye, my sweet little Valentine. I’m sending these birthday wishes across the bridge:

  • A limitless supply of squeaky toys for you to enjoy. I will miss the constant ‘squeak, squeak, squeak.’ That was never annoying to me; it always made me smile.
  • Never-ending games of fetch
  • Tacos, beef jerky, steak, and salmon, with peanut butter, Ice-cream, and pupcake treats for afters (or starters)
  • A vast selection of the comfiest, cushiest beds and blankets to curl up in for naps (between games of fetch, of course)
  • A collection of pretty accessories to wear, after each, of many, pampering sessions you will enjoy
  • Newfound energy, allowing you to run and play with all the new friends you make
  • Spring, and fall weather, all year long – your preferred temperature(s)
  • Bedtime treats, each, and every night (know that I’m hugging you close to my heart as I fall to sleep)

My dear sweet Reese. I will celebrate you, always xoxo

Proudly,
Your mama

MEET SKIPPER

| 22 Comments

INHERITED LOVE

For some, the heartache of losing a beloved, animal companion is so severe they choose not to invite another into their home and their heart to avoid experiencing that kind of pain again.
Until, one day, along comes a cat or dog. That wasn’t exactly the case for Roy and his wife, Liz.

Skipper wasn’t just ‘a’ dog, and he didn’t just ‘come along’ one day.

Skipper had known Liz and Roy for many years; they were neighbours in a beautiful crescent, in a small town in Ontario, Canada. The town was so small that, when Skipper’s person Don first moved to the area, an employee at the local Lumberjack Sawmill suggested he contact Roy. Don was in need of some hardwood to patch a small area of floor in his new (old) house, and Roy had recently purchased the exact kind required by Don. The sawmill employee suggested Roy might have enough left over for Don’s minor repair.

Don called and introduced himself to Roy, and told him he had just moved into town and shared his new address. ‘Well,’ said Roy, ‘if you look out your window, you can probably see my house.’ Roy provided Don with enough wood to repair the small patch that had become rotten and over the next few months, the two men would say ‘hi’ when they saw each other walking their dogs around the park in the crescent. Eventually, Don would stop by Roy’s house for a visit.

Sadly, seven years ago Roy lost his best friend, Bob. The little Jack Russell Terrier went most places with his person. Bob and Roy were a well-known duo in the town and over the course of their relationship they had created lasting memories of their many adventures; the stories of which Roy is finally able to recount. Roy was devastated by the loss.

In the past couple of years, Don’s health had been declining. Roy would take Skipper for his walks, and when they returned to the house, he would feed Skipper and get marijuana drops out of the fridge for Don. During one visit Roy found Don attached to his IV and particularly upset.

I’m afraid I’m going to have to put my dog down; nobody can or will take him, in the family

Skipper’s stepdaughter has cats that aren’t happy in the company of dogs. There was also concern that if (at that time) fourteen-year-old Skipper was returned to the shelter, he would spend his final days there. Roy played back their time in the crescent. Seven years of Don and Skipper; walks around the park and the memories created between them. It was a painful reminder of his loss; although in this case, it was the man being taken from his dog.

You can’t do that Don; you just can’t do that!

A dying man, kill his dog? Roy lowers and shakes his head as he recalls the difficult conversation.
I couldn’t let that be….I couldn’t make him do that…..I couldn’t let him do that.

‘We’ll take him,’ Roy assured his friend.

During Don’s previous hospital stays, Skipper had become used to spending time with Liz and Roy. The idea of having him on a permanent basis was not so far fetched, and it would not be a huge adjustment. And so, when Don went into the hospital for the last time, Skipper moved to the other side of the crescent.

It is often said, the best tribute you can pay to an animal companion is to open your heart and home to another animal, in need. This beautiful act of kindness by Liz and Roy honours both Bob and Don.


The transition, it seems, was not without a few challenges. It did take Skipper a considerable amount of time to settle to sleep, and he does have anxiety-related issues. Skipper doesn’t like to be shut in anywhere and wears a belly band to prevent leaks during stressful situations. After a little more than a year, the three have adjusted well; he only wears his band when left alone and in new situations. Skipper is content to holiday in a local kennel when the retired couple is away but is very happy to see his people when they return. It is obvious that Skipper adores the couple.

Don’s family stop in to visit when they are in the area and bring treats for the little Schnauzer mix.

Liz says,

I wish that Don could see that Skipper is happy

Perhaps, he can! There was an incredible bond between Skipper and Don. So much so, the evening before Don passed, Skipper had an extremely restless night. Liz remembers saying to Roy ‘something must be happening.’ Soon after, they received the sad news that Don had passed.

Don enjoyed writing; he even authored a couple of books. His thoughts were penned in his journal. During his service, Don’s family shared the following passage:

Roy is taking my dog; I can go now.

 

Thank you, Liz, Roy & Skipper for sharing your story,

 

 

 

If you are part of or know of a rescue story, please contact us; we love to share happy tales!

 

HOW WE CELEBRATED JACK’S GOTCHA DAY!

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PB, BANANA & JELLY (BLUEBERRY, NOT GRAPE) ICE CREAM
(scroll to bottom for recipe)

Jack and his pack

I can’t remember how long it took before Jack became brave enough to jump up on the bed. He still doesn’t sleep with the rest of the pack but morning is his absolute favourite time of day. He dive bombs us with kisses and tail wags until my husband, and I are awake and in fits of laughter. Jack acts as though it has been forever since he last saw us and this is the happiest of reunions.

He is very polite and waits nicely for his breakfast and dinner – two of his favourite words. Other favourites include T-R-E-A-T-S and W-A-L-K.

Jack loves his brothers Henry and Ricky (Rooster) and his sister Reese. They are older and don’t engage in his attempts at play, but he is happy running around the garden and simply ‘being’ with his pack.

He is guessed to be around six years of age now. His puppy mill start is mostly behind him although there are still things that frighten him and cause him to become anxious. We will continue to work through those situations.

Jack is a sweet, fun-loving dog and it has been a pleasure working with him and seeing his abundance of personality come to light.

I am blessed to have these beautiful companions in my life.

To celebrate Jack’s Gotcha Day, I served everyone (feline and canine) a salmon breakfast. Shortly after eating, we went for a beautiful walk along the Lake.

Jack, Henry, and Reese spent the afternoon at the spa (groomer) before coming back home for dinner. While they were being pampered, I made them a surprise to celebrate the occasion.

This PB, Banana & (blueberry) Jelly ice cream was a huge hit! I hope your pups enjoy it as much as mine did. Oh, and my husband enjoyed a piece too!

Print
PB, Banana & Jelly Ice Cream

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Yield: It depends what mold you use. See notes.

PB, Banana & Jelly Ice Cream

Ingredients

  • 1/3c all natural peanut butter
  • 1c plain greek yogurt
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1/4c blueberries
  • 1/4c water
  • coconut whip cream and a blueberry to garnish

Instructions

Blend all ingredients except blueberries until smooth. Add blueberries for a quick spin (I like to see the flecks of blue and purple in the final product, so I barely blend the fruit).

Notes

I was able to make six ice cream servings using my silicone muffin tray. Picture shown. Also, I made twelve medium sized dog bone shaped ice cream bars (another silicone mold).

Substitute blueberries for strawberries if you prefer.

https://herandherdogs.com/2017/07/05/how-we-celebrated-jacks-gotcha-day/

 

 

 

 

MEET JAZ

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A SENIOR DOG ENJOYING HIS GOLDEN YEARS

Beautiful Jaz

Jaz’s previous owner, herself a senior, had put into place a plan for the care of her beloved companion in the case of her death. Eighty-six year old Jacqueline put her little Jaz before all else.  He was groomed and vetted regularly.  Jacquie left money for her family to care for Jaz in the event of her death.  It must have broken her heart to know she would be leaving him behind and we hope it was some relief for her to know that Jaz would be cared for after she passed.  After all, the family had agreed to take on that responsibility and look after this tiny bundle of love.

After losing his owner, Jaz found himself alone, grieving and scared in the empty room he once shared with his person

Jacquie’s family took the money that was left to them for the care of Jaz, they emptied her room at the retirement home of any valuables and left seventeen-year-old Jaz behind.  They notified staff that they did not want him.  Another kind-hearted woman from the centre cared for Jaz until a local rescue organization was contacted and foster care was arranged for Jaz.

Ann became Jaz’s foster mom and after learning that Jacquie and Jaz had been inseparable for seventeen years, decided Jaz would not be shuffled around anymore.  Jaz became a member of Ann’s pack of rescues.  Each of them has their own story; Tina and Tommy are puppy mill rescues.  Tina was a breeding dog whose insides were almost outside when she was surrendered.  Tommy is her son.  Cheeky was abused and tossed into a ditch.  Then there are the cats – feral initially; they warmed to Ann’s nurturing nature, were neutered and spayed and are enjoying their new lives.

Speckles

Blackie

Jaz has settled into his surroundings and seems to take comfort in having siblings.

Jaz and his new brother Cheeky

Jaz and brother Tommy

Tina and Tommy

Ann opened her heart and her home to those in need.  Her garden is also the resting place for previous companions who were lucky enough to find their way into her care, after they pass.

A resting place

I believe Jacqueline would be pleased to see Jaz in his new home.  I wish the world were filled with more kind people like Ann.

 

 

 

If you are part of or know of a rescue story, please contact us; we love to share happy tales!

WE’VE BEEN HIBERNATING

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After a much-needed break – Doctor’s orders, we’re back!

(Jack) Enjoying a much-needed rest

First, I can’t tell you how much I appreciated the messages from our followers. The fact that you checked in with us and offered us your well wishes means the world. We’ve missed you too!

It was difficult for me to step away from my laptop and although I wanted to connect with you each week and participate in the A to Z challenge this year, I realized that health (mental and physical) comes before all else. I have learned to prioritize and find a balance between job number one, the job for fun, and of course, family (importance in reverse order).

No one wants needs to hear the details of why we were absent. Suffice to say, Dogma has recovered after surgery, and during that time I had a chance to spend quality time with the new guy (Jack) and his siblings as well as research some new tips, tricks, treats and toys with you. For them and in the future, for you too! Pet people like tips, treats, and toys as well. At least this one does!

As always, I look forward to hearing from you,

 
 
 
 

HENRY IS TEN!!!

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY HENRY!!!

Henry is 10!

Henry is 10!

It seems like no time has passed since we brought Henry home and he became part of our family. Now, he is TEN YEARS of age!

I purposely omitted the word ‘old.’

Henry is a happy-go-lucky guy who can hold his own when it comes to ‘zoomies’ in the back yard with brother Jack.

Other than his autoimmune issues and allergies, his veterinarian has given Henry a clean bill of health – no age-related problems are evident at this stage.

He isn’t full speed ahead and mischievous as he once was, but he is still quite a character. Perhaps, the secret to his continued youth is his ability to find the perfect balance between play and meditation.

Henry will lay on his bed, with one of his stuffed hippos between his front paws and in his mouth. With eyes closed, he will rock his head gently from side to side and gently caress his hippo. It is hypnotic and calming to watch.

We did not have time to organize a party as we just returned from a family beach holiday. During our time away, our birthday boy enjoyed daily walks in the sand and paddling in the sea. The perfect way to celebrate!

Thank you to Dog’s Best trend for supplying these beautiful scarves for the occasion. Even though the celebration was low-key, the pups were dressed to the nines in their satin party wear.

DBT Gift Option

DBT Gift Option

gift_and_card

Dog’s Best trend is a subscription program offering monthly or annual plans to subscribers. Free shipping to U.S. residents.

The designers create an original scarf design every month. Sometimes it is based on a theme or season. Every time beautiful and stylish. Each design is a limited, small-batch production for one month only.

We love that a portion of every subscription is donated to dog rescue groups across the country.

We’re currently supporting the Dumb Friends League.

The Dumb Friends League

For over 100 years, the Dumb Friends League has provided a compassionate voice for those who cannot speak for themselves and is the largest community-based animal welfare organization in the Rocky Mountain region. The League will not turn any animal away, and in the last year alone, 17,903 pets were adopted, reunited or placed. Further, through spaying, neutering, and owner education they have reduced the number of homeless animals entering their shelters by 27%.

Click here to try Dog’s Best trend for free! Under 35# and Over 35#

We could not agree more, Dog’s Best trend:
Ten is just a number. We don’t stop playing because we get older, we get older because we stop playing!
card
card-message

Since we have added another pup to our pack, we have joined the ‘extra toy club’ with barkbox. Not that it makes much of a difference; Reese thinks all the toys belong to her. It’s a good thing Henry loves the packaging as much as the contents and both boys are happy with treats. And, not just on Halloween!!!

The chocolates are for Henry's Humom!

The chocolates are for Henry’s Humom!

Thank you barkbox for sending a special ‘Birthday’ celebration hat and treats for the birthday boy.

pumpkin_treats

Click badge on sidebar to start your barkbox subscription.

birthday-hat

Thank you Dog’s Best trend and barkbox for helping to make my little man’s special day special.

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OH CAPTAIN, MY CAPTAIN

| 53 Comments

BUDDY’S RESCUE TALE

Only a pro ball for Buddy. He pops anything less.

Only a pro ball for Buddy. He pops anything less.

Buddy chose Deb to be his person.

Literally!

He walked into her kitchen and her heart.

The side door was open due to the summer heat and having run away from home – a home within the neighborhood, he found solace with Deb.

She called him buddy as he was company for as long as he wanted to hang out with her. Deb fed him and took him for a swim before calling around the grove in which she lived.

mms_20160926_221145

 

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People that knew where ‘Buddy’ had been living came to collect him and later informed her that the people in the house would not even open the door for him.

Just keep him Deb. They don’t want him

The hair on his back was so sparse you could see the fleas running across his skin. Deb learned that Buddy had been neglected and abused for the first two and a half years of his life. He was not housebroken.

Like many dogs that end up in need of rehoming, Buddy had been a Christmas present for the children in the family. And, in true, forgiving dog fashion, Buddy is happy to see those children but has made it clear that he is Deb’s Buddy now.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas (from now on)

One evening, the kids were over at the marina and were excited to see the dog for whom they previously had no time. After a quick hello, Buddy ran across the yard, kid hot on his heels, and jumped up into Deb’s lap and protective embrace.

Buddy was home.

Happy, Happy, Happy

Happy, Happy, Happy

Deb would leave Buddy in the house while she went across the street to work.

Next thing I know, he’s down here at the Marina! He had chewed a hole through the screen of the front door and ran over to see me

Deb took Buddy home and closed both doors at the front of the house. That did not deter Buddy, a Jack Russell Terrier (plus a mix of another type of terrier), from finding an alternate means of escape. Within fifteen minutes, Buddy had figured out how to split the accordion-like side panel attached to the air-conditioning unit in the bedroom and was back at the marina.

Deb and Buddy have come to an agreement: as long as it’s not too hot, Buddy comes to work with Deb. When he can’t be outside, he sits in the window and takes in the view.

mms_20160926_215519

The children love him and watching the tricks he has learned to do. They would share their ice cream with Buddy and missed him when he wasn’t there.

‘He’s such a good little guy’ shares, Deb. ‘There’s a kid on the Island that asks his Dad: When Deb dies, do you think I can get Buddy? So cute, says Deb. They do have a dog.’

Deb says Buddy is the boss of the lake and rides with Deb when she, as part of her marina duties, operates the ferry boat service to Snake Island. “Wanna go to work Buddy”? She asks and Buddy is always there, captain of the ship, ready to greet people.

Captain Buddy

Captain Buddy

Says Deb,

‘He is my best Buddy.’

mms_20160926_230039

Thank you, Deb and Buddy, for sharing your story (and the fun photos).
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RUBY’S LOVE LETTER LEGACY – The Awareness Project

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LOVE, HOPE & FAITH

 

Ruby's Love Letter Legacy

Ruby’s Love Letter Legacy

I am incredibly proud to be participating in this ‘non-hostile’ campaign that will most definitely have a huge impact on our Canadian Government regarding legislation about to puppy mills and breeding practices in general.  This campaign will also, undoubtedly set an example for others.  It is an honour to share information with you – please join this cause.

It all began on April 19, 2012, with a tiny puppy mill survivor named ‘Ruby.’

Ruby changed our lives forever

As a result of living in a cage for six years, Ruby’s health was seriously compromised. Despite best efforts Ruby took her place among the Angels on March 10, 2014.

Ruby’s Love Letter Legacy was created in memory of this darling dog, to close down puppy mills until there are NO MORE PUPPY MILLS in Canada! A serious message, delivered in a peaceful way; a flood of red envelopes reaching government officials arriving in time for Valentine’s Day each year.

So Ruby’s life was not lived in vain, we have made a commitment to educate everyone we meet about the horror of puppy mills. Our next step is to continue to nudge our government officials through letter writing campaigns and not let up until there are NO MORE PUPPY MILLS in Canada!

The intention of this campaign is to change the laws currently protecting puppy mills and backyard breeders and to have puppy mills closed down for good.

Reese is free

Ruby’s team provides all the information needed to participate: names, addresses, sample letters and downloadable letterhead! You supply the red envelopes, and stamps (if required) and as many letters as you can send out!

Please join this cause and share information about:
• puppy mills and backyard breeders in Canada
• inspiring advocacy
• opting to adopt
• discouraging the purchase of dogs from pet stores or online sellers
• researching breeders before buying

WE CAN’T DO THIS ALONE

If you have knowledge or expertise in provincial/territory legislature, please contact Ruby’s Legacy team, so they are better able to convince government officials to put an end to the puppy mill madness!

This campaign was inspired by ‘Lola’s Legacy’ in the USA.  Ruby’s team expressed gratitude to Sandra Parker Rouse:

We love your idea and trust it will help Canadian puppy mill dogs as much as your campaign continues to help those sweet being south of our border.

Federal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith is supporting this cause in the House of Commons and will be introducing legislation to bring animal welfare into the 21st Century and HE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT! Click HERE! to view MP Erskine-Smith’s video endorsement of the campaign.

THREE VERSIONS of the letter and an address list are available on Ruby’s Legacy Facebook page (file tab at top of page contains all of the addresses and links to find those you will send to)

STEP 1:

Choose the one/s that applies to you
1) Canadian Letter to Federal PM & MPs
2) Canadian Letter to Provincial MLAs or MPPs
3) International Supporter Letter to PM Trudeau

STEP 2:

Download and Print
• ADD FULL NAME & ADDRESS at the bottom where indicated. Your letter(s) could be ignored without them.
• SIGN
• MAIL on February 8th, 2016 or as close to this date as possible

CANADIANS:
Please send letters to ALL of the following:
1) Your Federal MP (Member of Parliament)
2) Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
3) Your Provincial MLA (Member of Legislative Assembly) or MPP (Member of Provincial Parliament)
4) Federal and/or Provincial elected officials responsible for Animal Welfare. There are several listed.

LETTERS MAILED IN CANADA TO THE PM & MPs OTTAWA ADDRESS DO NOT REQUIRE POSTAGE!  (LETTERS TO PROVINCIAL MPs & MLAs require postage.)

INTERNATIONAL SUPPORTERS, Please send your letters to:
The Prime Minister of Canada: The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau
His address is at the top of the list.

Please DO NOT USE FALSE NAMES OR ADDRESSES and
DO NOT SEND MORE THAN ONE LETTER TO THE SAME GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL

Ruby’s Love Letter Legacy CAMPAIGN DIRECTIONS

Please read campaign directions entirely. A downloadable .pdf file of these instructions is available under the Files tab (on Ruby’s Legacy Facebook page).

If you don’t have RED ENVELOPES, please check DOLLAR STORES, PARTY CITY or STAPLES. As a last resort, grab a RED MARKER and decorate white envelopes with BIG RED HEARTS!

We want to stand out…so make a love filled statement!!!

FOR THOSE WHO WISH TO COMPOSE THEIR OWN LETTERS:

‘RubysLLL-Letterhead’ has been uploaded in .pdf format.

We realize this is an emotional subject but PLEASE refrain from writing aggressive, derogatory and abusive letters, as it’s this behavior we are looking to stop.

• Download and print the letterhead.
• Compose your letter.
• Print to the letterhead sheet.
• ADD YOUR FULL NAME & ADDRESS at the bottom where indicated. Your letter could be ignored without it.

 

Please join us in supporting Ruby’s Legacy and help save thousands of beautiful souls still imprisoned in these barns.

Thank you,

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PEANUT BUTTER MOLASSES COOKIES

| 3 Comments

CINNAMON REMINDS ME OF WINTER

Fresh out of the oven – I have dogs at my feet!

(gluten-free) Peanut Butter Molasses Cookies

Ingredients
1/2 cup Peanut Butter
1/4 cup Molasses
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
2 cups White Rice Flour

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl add all ingredients and mix well. I add water until desired consistency is achieved.
3. Knead dough into ball and roll onto a heavily floured surface 1/4 inch thick.

Cut with the cookie cutter of your choice.

cutouts
4. Place on your prepared cookie sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Cool and refrigerate.
Makes 3 to 4 dozen rounds.

Fresh out of the oven - I have dogs at my feet!

Fresh out of the oven – I have dogs at my feet!

Recipe courtesy of Doggy Dessert Chef – we LOVE her

Enjoy!
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FINDING JACK

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WHEN THE WAR ENDS, HOW DO YOU LEAVE YOUR BEST FRIEND BEHIND?

A Tribute to War Dogs

findingjack

 

Last month, we introduced you to the movie ‘Max.’  Continuing with the theme of War Dogs, it gives  me great pleasure to share with you ‘Finding Jack.’ A rare gem of a book written by Gareth Crocker.

I take my time working through a book.  I’ll pick it up ‘now and then.’  Finding Jack is a book that captivates the reader early on and is not easy to put down.  The short chapters are deceiving; it’s easy to justify ‘just one more,’ over, and again.  Immediately, we connect with Fletcher, the main character and learn of the heartbreak that motivates him to sign up for the Vietnam war.

In a world where, understandably, if men survive, many find it difficult to overcome the stress, emotional and more often than not, the physical trauma endured.  A dog would be a welcome comrade.  Our introduction to Jack is anything but wagging tails and kisses.  Tissues required.  This story depicts how even the darkest world is made brighter with the presence of a very special dog.  Jack not only protected the soldiers in his unit, he boosted morale among the entire base.  Except for a few good men, this comradery, lasts only as long as the war.

This beautiful, poignant story is a tribute to the Vietnam war dogs,

many of whom gave their lives to protect American and allied soldiers. Shortly after troops began to pull out of the war, it’s believed the U.S. government ordered that the dogs be left behind.  It was proving too expensive to transport them home.  They were labeled as ‘surplus military equipment’ and left to fates unknown.

Fewer than two hundred dogs made it home.  This beautiful story about loyalty, perseverance, and hope, is dedicated to the dogs that saved the lives of more than ten thousand soldiers.

 

Note: this novel contains language that may be offensive to some readers.

 

Gareth Crocker

ENVY & PRESUMPTION – The Awareness Project

| 9 Comments

Mixed Breed vs. Purebred, and Rescue vs. Purchase

Envy is thin because it bites but never eats. (Proverb)
pure bred vs mixed breed, purchase vs rescue

Purebred vs Mixed breed, Purchase vs rescue – Photo courtesy of Gillian Woods of GillyFace Photos

pre·sump·tion noun

an act or instance of taking something to be true or adopting a particular attitude toward something, especially at the start of a chain of argument or action.

DON’T HATE ME BECAUSE I’M BEAUTIFUL!!!

The handsome poodle in this photo is, in fact, purebred and yes, he is groomed to perfection. A show dog one might think. Kramer – the purebred poodle is a stunning, friendly dog albeit timid at times. He was going to be a breeding dog. The breeder decided that due to his disposition this was not to be his future, and she found a good home for him. Kramer’s mama is a groomer and his role as a model for her incredible talent suits him perfectly. Kramer greets Henry and Reese when they arrive at the salon for their appointments and the opportunity to socialize is great for both Kramer and Reese, who is also very timid.

My point is this; looking at Kramer, you might not, at first glance think he is a ‘rescue.’ In my experience and through much research and interaction with dog owners over the years, I have witnessed a great divide and often prejudice. Breeders and owners of purebred dogs versus rescue parents, parents of Heinz 57’s and even some rescue workers.

Let’s face it there is something that draws us to our companions whether they are a mix from a rescue organization or a purebred from a rescue organization or a breeder.  Some of us have a ‘type.’ Although I care about the wellbeing of all animals, I go gaga for curly, or wavy coated dogs that are small to medium in size as well as the temperament of the dog. Others are drawn to the temperament alone – often a trait of the dog’s breed, or the combination of breeds.

To some, going through a reputable breeder means having a history of their dog’s health for, in some cases, several generations.  It also means the opportunity to train a dog from puppyhood, hopefully ruling out behavior issues and establishing good manners.  Some people rely on the support and guidance from the breeder regarding their new family member.

This doesn’t mean there won’t be issues;  no one can predict a traumatic event that may alter behavior.  Nor can they rule out the possibility of cancer or other first-time health concern regardless of lineage.  I would say there is no guarantee, and for the dogs, that may be true.  For the people who purchase from a breeder, it is often agreed that if there is an issue with the dog, the breeder will provide a ‘replacement’ or refund.  The purchasers may return the dog to the breeder.

My opinion: when people make a commitment to become a pet owner, they should do so with the mindset they will care for their companion no matter what cards they are dealt.  Henry and Reese both had health issues when we rescued them.  Reese was older and required rehabilitation for the trauma of life after a puppy mill.  With the exception of a few additional upsets along the way, we knew from the beginning what we were signing up for.

Purebred vs. Rescue, Purebred vs. mixed breeds.  In the words of Rudyard Kipling, “never the twain shall meet.”  That, however, is not the case.  My husband has always admired the Portuguese Water Dog breed and would love to have one join our pack.  I admit, years ago, I ‘assumed’ the only way to acquire one of these purebred dogs was from a breeder. I informed my husband that we would never have a PWD, our pack would consist of rescues only. I was ignorant to presume Portuguese Water Dogs or other purebred dogs may never find themselves in the situation of needing to be rehomed.

Some rescue organizations, although affiliated with a specific breed, will often provide care and work to find loving homes for mixes of the breeds they represent as well as purebred dogs. Boston Terrier Rescue Canada, Golden Rescue, and Standard Poodles In Need are wonderful examples of such organizations.

From Bernice McNutt, President of Standard Poodles In Need Rescue, and Rehome:

‘Purchasing from a great breeder isn’t a bad thing at all!  Lack of research and impatience is definitely an issue.  It allows the disreputable breeders to continue producing puppies purely for profit.

We’ve seen the bumper stickers ‘Golden’s Rule’ or ‘Don’t shop, adopt! Save a life.’

When you see a purebred dog, don’t be too quick to judge.  The fact that their owner selected a purebred dog is not the reason a shelter dog is put to sleep.  Also, when you see a mixed breed or special needs dog, don’t dismiss them as being of lesser quality.  Each dog is unique, every one is special!

My opinion – again;

Overpopulation, the reason shelters and rescue organizations are inundated with pets, is mostly due to disreputable breeders and irresponsible pet owners.  I say ‘mostly’ because unfortunately things do happen, and even some of the most loved and well cared for companions find themselves at the door of a shelter.  PLEASE write your wills and plan for the unknown. Sorry, I digress.

Sierra, a purebred Duck Tolling Retriever is a show dog, competing in agility trials.  Sierra also spends a great deal of her time in the hospital – for people, as a therapy dog.  Also, Sierra is a member of the St. John Ambulance Paws 4 Stories program.  This program enhances children’s reading skills.  Like hundreds of owners of purebred dogs (from reputable breeders), Sierra’s mom contributes generously and supports various rescue organizations and therapy programs.

Instead of judging the quality of the dog or how it was acquired, we should rally together to abolish disreputable breeders.  This includes backyard breeders and puppy mills.  We should focus our efforts on cruelty and inhumane treatment of all animals, supporting diligence, protection and enforcing harsh penalties for neglect and abuse.  My disapproval does not lie with the owner of a purebred dog for making that choice.  My disapproval is with a breeder who does not provide care and adequate accommodation for his dogs, or the owner or carer who leaves dogs in vehicles on a hot day.

I also disapprove of organizations (or, brokers and millers posing as a rescue), regardless of a breed; that will take your cash and very few details by way of an application.  To me, that is highly suspicious not to mention irresponsible.  Most reputable rescue organizations want a full application, including references, ensuring the dogs entrusted to them will be well cared for and safe.

Rescue sites, shelters and rescue organizations are flooded with purebred companions in need of loving homes.  If you admire a certain breed and are open to providing a loving, forever home to an animal in need, please consider adoption.  If you want to purchase a purebred dog from a breeder, please ensure they are reputable.  If you have suspicions about a breeder, please report these to the authorities.   And regardless of where an animal companion comes from, please be vigilant and consider their welfare when out in the community.  I have animal control and my local police on speed dial!

‘ENVY’ was to be June’s subject, however, it seems appropriate to share this post today.  Across the Country, we are celebrating Canada Day.  Canada is a diverse country; it’s people made up of many nationalities and beliefs.  Our choice, of breed or background of companion equally varied.  ‘Happy Canada Day!’

Thank you, Candice of Groomingdales, Pet Valu – Sutton, Ontario, and the very handsome Kramer for participating in this photo shoot.

Thank you again to Gillian Woods for collaborating with me on The Awareness Project.

GillyFace Photos

The Awareness Project

Resources:

Boston Terrier Rescue Canada

Golden Rescue

Standard Poodles In Need

Paws 4 Stories

Petfinder – Rescue Site

Canada

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