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SOI DOG FOUNDATION

May 31, 2019 | 13 Comments

HELPING STREET DOGS AND CATS WHO HAVE NO-ONE ELSE TO CARE FOR THEM

For some, the ideal retirement would include daily walks along the beach, on a tropical island. John and Gill Dalley envisioned this dream.  The couple wed on the island of Phuket, Thailand in 1996 and returned to the paradise many times before retiring there in 2003.  Having enjoyed successful careers in their homeland of England, they decided they wanted to give back to society; in particular, the local community in the place in which they created many happy memories.  Without wasting any time, the Dalleys set about finding a humane way to address the stray dog and cat problem on the island, which was, in fact, an issue throughout all of Thailand.

On previous trips to Phuket, the Dalleys were shocked, not just by the vast number of street dogs and cats (estimated at 70,000 at the time), but also by the horrific health conditions. John and Gill learned of another expatriate, Margot Homburg who had been taking dogs in her neighbourhood in Bangkok to be spayed and neutered by a local vet. To fund her efforts, Margot had set up a charity called Soi Dog Foundation.

Soi, meaning “street” in Thailand, is the perfect name for an organization committed to saving and improving the lives of the country’s street animals

The three joined forces and continued the process of mass sterilisation in order to first reduce the number of animals being born on the streets into a life of misery and suffering. Initially, they set up sterilisation clinics throughout the island. John, Gill, and Margot assumed the roles of dog catchers and vet nurses; spay and neuter procedures were carried out by volunteer vets, and occasionally nurses, from overseas. An Australian vet had established a small scale program, focusing her efforts on the many stray dogs taken in by monks. When she moved to Hong Kong, she gave her equipment to Soi Dog Foundation.

The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated – Mahatma Gandhi

Two local vets offered to perform spay/neuter procedures at cost price. Although still small-scale, the program was proving to be highly effective. John and Gill’s vision of providing a humane and sustainable solution to managing the stray population and address their medical needs had become a reality.

The following year, their patience and dedication were tested. After running into a flooded buffalo field to rescue a tranquilized dog, Gill contracted a rare form of septicemia. She was airlifted to Bangkok and remained in a coma for several weeks. Given a slim chance of survival, Doctors advised that if she did survive, she would likely lose her arms and legs. Gill’s fighting spirit saw her through, and although she did lose both lower legs, she survived and was able to use her arms. Only three weeks after having her legs amputated, Gill was determined to enjoy Christmas at home, and discharged herself from the hospital, returning to Phuket on December 22nd, 2004.  Four days later, On December 26th, the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami struck, taking the lives of thousands – including Gill’s closest friend, and a dedicated Soi Dog Foundation volunteer, Leone Cosens.

After much loss, came hope. In 2005, after spending the first few days after the tsunami assisting with the human crisis, Soi Dog Foundation; including, Gill, initially in her wheelchair, began the colossal task of feeding and treating abandoned dogs. Thousands of dogs whose homes and food sources had also been washed away. One positive thing that came out of such devastation is that Soi Dog was now on the map. For months following the tsunami, the foundation was overwhelmed with offers of help from vets and other volunteers, enabling them to run multiple clinics.

Following the disaster, WSPA (World Society for the Protection of Animals), had been very successful with fundraising efforts and were looking for partners. They provided Soi Dog Foundation with a two-year grant. The foundation was now able to employ full-time vets and dog catchers.

Dog Catchers

Later in the year, Soi Dog became the first of its kind to be granted foundation status in Thailand, and a principally Thai board was established.

Experiencing ill health in 2006, Margot left the Dalleys to lead the foundation on an incredible journey of expansion during the next ten years, driven by their continued commitment to alleviate the suffering of Thailand’s street dogs and cats.

2011 – Thousands of dogs rescued and dozens of arrests made as a result of Soi Dog’s campaign to end illegal export of an estimated 500,000 dogs per year to Vietnam for use as dog meat.

2013 – Funding to build and finance a huge complex of shelters, as well as provide food and medication.

2014 – Thailand introduced its first animal welfare law. Soi Dog Foundation sat on the committee that drafted the law. The Prevention of Animal Cruelty and Provision of Animal Welfare Act makes it illegal to eat dog and cat meat.

2017 – Sadly, after a short battle with cancer, Gill passed away. She devoted the last four years of her life to designing and overseeing the construction of a new, state-of-the-art dog hospital, dedicated entirely to the treatment of street dogs.  The is the largest and most comprehensive hospital in Asia, and possibly the world.

The hospital is the fulfillment of Gill’s promise to provide the best possible treatment for the street dogs she loved

John and Gill’s vision is shared internationally. As others learned of their cause, and the difference the foundation is making to the animals, alliances were formed.  As well as International Partner Rescue Programs, SOI DOG has become a legally registered charity in other countries: Australia, France, the Netherlands, the UK, the United States, and has a growing presence on two Canadian coasts.

The organization’s continued success is apparent;

Soi Dog Foundation performed 80,000 spay/neuter surgeries in 2018 – an increase of 51% from the previous year, bringing the total to more than 300,000 procedures overall

Tourists are embracing the opportunity to experience John and Gill’s dream paradise. Travel to the foundation to walk dogs has become part of a destination vacation – guests rave about their FIVE STAR EXPERIENCE on Tripadvisor.

Before researching this incredible organization, I, like many, believed their efforts were focused on putting an end to the dog-meat trade. SOI DOG efforts include:

CNVR – controlling overpopulation and eliminating disease by Capture/Neuter/Vaccinate/Release.

MEDICAL TREATMENT – high-quality veterinary care to strays.

SHELTER – provided to victims of cruelty and abuse, disabled animals, abandoned puppies, and others who are unable to survive on the streets.

ADOPTION – Finding permanent homes in Thailand, and overseas for animals in the shelter.

Click here to read about Soi Dog success, and loving adoptions.

FIGHTING THE ASIAN DOG MEAT TRADE – Dismantling the organised meat trade across the borders and putting an end to eating cats and dogs in Asia.

DISASTER RESPONSE – Initiating fast and effective action to save dogs and cats after natural or man-made disasters.

ERADICATING PUPPY FARMS – Encouraging people to adopt rescue dogs and not buy puppies from pet stores.

ANIMAL WELFARE LAWS – Soi Dog Foundation was instrumental in the introduction of Thailand’s first animal welfare law and sits on committees designed to improve it. Also, the organization campaigns to ensure the law is enforced and the sentences applied (by courts) for cruelty to animals are as severe as the new law allows

EDUCATION AND TRAINING – An emphasis is being put on educating children; both local, and abroad, to change the attitude of future generations, to the welfare of animals.

Soi Dog Canada, a non-for-profit group of volunteers, support the organization through independent fundraising, education, partner rescues, foster, and adoptions.

Mutt March

DON’T MISS SOI DOG MUTT MARCH

 

If you live near Richmond, BC, be sure to sign up for Mutt March

taking place this Sunday, June 2nd, in Garry Point Park.

Join us Sunday, June 9th, in Erindale Park, Mississauga, ON for Mutt March,

a day of fun for the whole family.

 

Thank you,

 

 

 


photos courtesy of Soi Dog Foundation

Categories: ADOPTABLES, RESCUE GROUPS & SHELTERS Tagged: Animal-welfare, International Rescue, Rescue, Rescue Organizations, STREET CATS, Street Dogs, Support Rescues

COVETED CANINES RESCUE

April 19, 2019 | 17 Comments

FROM DISCARDED TO DESIRED

 

Coveted Canines, based in Toronto, Ontario, is a not for profit rescue organization that focuses on dogs that are at high risk of being euthanized, and those that are vulnerable to abuse.

The organization, run entirely by volunteers, believes there is a home for all the dogs they bring into rescue, and they pride themselves on matching their dogs with the right people.

Instead of placing dogs in a shelter, they are fostered in homes where they are made to feel safe, begin to trust people and learn critical socialization skills. Once comfortable in a home environment, the dogs flourish, and their personalities and quirks observed and shared with potential forever families.

COVETED CANINES FIND THE PERFECT, FOREVER HOME FOR EACH DOG IN THEIR CARE

How do they ensure the perfect match?

Spending quality time with the dogs, in their foster homes, allows foster parents to get to know the dogs, and that experience helps them create honest, and detailed profiles about each dog.

Carly Werle, one of the organizations three founders, states:

Full disclosure MUST be given to potential adopters

No one benefits unless there is complete transparency. The volunteers are busy, and the dogs have been through enough negative experiences, without being set up for another failure.

Cooper is an example of an adoptable dog, who, without an honest profile, may find himself right back in the shelter system through no fault of his own.

Photo taken from profile

COOPER

Italian Greyhound & Chi Mix | 4 years approximate age (likely younger)

Male | 7 lbs
#emptyontarioshelters
Temperament: Happy, playful, fun!
Activity: High – moderate.

As well as pointing out all of his wonderful, positive attributes, Cooper’s profile outlines points that may be of concern to potential adopters: He is good with other, small dogs, and, although he walks well on a leash, he can be reactive while on leash.  He has a high prey drive, so, likely not good with cats.

That said, Cooper is very good with the sanctuary cockatoos that freely walk around. He is vocal – condo or apartment living is not appropriate for Cooper.

COOPER’S BIO MAY CHANGE AS WE GET TO KNOW HIM BETTER.

Another little sassy/napoleon syndrome/spoiled rotten Chi mix in need of rescue! For all of you small dog lovers out there he is what you call DELICIOUS. Itsy bitsy, longgggg legs, compact little bod….are you Chi lovers swooning yet? Or at least drooling?

Although Cooper is not great with guys initially, has leash reactivity and is not great with all large dogs…it turns out he’s a little socialite with most humans and small dogs (and even some large dogs). With guys, he needs some adjustment time but after he feels safe really does prefer men (and loves woman too!). He enjoys cuddles and scratches like all day long if you have the time to adorn him with that much time and affection. While he can sometimes be an angry little man to some new people, he is MP (Mister Perfection) with everyone else. He will definitely need an EO (Experienced Owner) and an older child home.

He is potty trained, walks well on a leash (minus the leash reactivity), is crate trained, very food motivated and is loving his time at the sanctuary where he gets to socialize with doggies 24/7. You won’t find a more loving or cuddly dog anywhere!

If this little man with big man syndrome is what you are looking for, please click here to fill out an application online.

All too often, the relevant information is left out of profiles, and adopters find themselves paying additional veterinary expenses, or dealing with undisclosed behavioral issues. The profile must also be respected by potential adopters. Some rescues will charge a rescue fee of $700 for a dog, and the adopters later discover surgery or medications will be required.

In addition to providing a thorough, and honest profile, applications are reviewed thoroughly, references contacted, and vet checks and home visits completed. Depending on the location, the organization may reach out to another, trusted rescue for assistance with home visits. Carly feels that home visits are the most crucial part of the process; they reveal so much more than what is written on the application. If a profile states ‘Prefers a home without children, ‘ it’s probably not the best idea for doting grandparents, or potential parents to apply to adopt the dog.

During one home visit, we determined a couple who had applied for one such dog, were, in fact, hoping to start a family

Coveted Canines do adopt out of the GTA; however, potential adopters must drive to the dog’s foster home to meet them, and then again to pick them up once they are approved. It’s a great way to screen people to see their level of commitment. The Coveted Canines team is equally devoted to the process and have crossed the border to do a home visit in the U.S.

Carly believes rescue organizations need to create a village.

We need to build a community of like-minded individuals and educate each other by sharing our experiences and resources

Carly is referring to a community that includes: rescue organizers, foster parents, adoptive families, potential adopters, fellow educators; including, veterinarians, and not excluding members of the public that share a passion for dogs, and want to learn and help find loving homes for the dogs. A rescue organization should provide support to adoptive families, during and after the adoption process.  This community may also include potential surrenders:

Educating people about the welfare of animals, and providing support through what is often a difficult decision, may mean the difference between people choosing to surrender to rescues, versus having them euthanized, posting them on Kijiji, or selling them to testing facilities, and fight rings.

Coveted Canines is a team of more than one-hundred volunteers, including thirteen managers: vet manager, adoption manager, etc. Most members are in Toronto; however, some are located in Brock Township, home of Coveted Canines ‘sister’ organization, Coveted Kennels, and Sanctuary.

The Sanctuary is home to forever fosters, and, for some, a retirement home.  Rescued farm animals also reside here. Past and present residents include chickens, roosters, parrots, peacocks, a donkey, horses, a pig, several goats, other small domestics, and a feral cat.

We found a job for some dogs as ‘livestock protectors,’ and, adopted ducks, goats, and a bunny, to a vegetarian farming couple

The Sanctuary is also a holiday home for boarders.  The money from boarding services not only helps to pay for vetting of rescue dogs but also helps to pay to rescue and vet additional animals and pay for their care.

Offered at the Sanctuary:

  • All day play and hiking
  • Cuddles in a loving, home-based environment
  • Cage free boarding/daycare experience on 30 acres (crating available upon request by owner)
  • Approximately one hour outside of Toronto GTA
  • Open year round
  • Drop off/pick up locations in Toronto and safe shuttle service to and from the sanctuary
  • Experienced staff
  • Giving back. Our clients support a business that saves abused, neglected and displaced animals.

Photo by Tara McGrath

If permitted by owners, boarding guest dogs are permitted on the furniture and are welcome to sleep on the bed with Carly. Known as the fairy dog-mother, Carly says,

I’m a marshmallow! I once had twelve dogs in bed with me!

The sanctuary is also a place to care for dogs with behavioral issues or those that prove more of a challenge to adopt. For example; Cooper, the Chihuahua mentioned above mix, who is leash reactive and barks. He would not do well in a condo or townhome.

Photo by Tara McGrath

Coveted Canines and sister organization – Sanctuary, are looking for rural fosters to help rehabilitate and provide the space necessary for large, and high-energy dogs. Please contact the organization if you are interested in giving space for these dogs.

 

Thank you, Carly and the Coveted Team for all the wonderful work you do for the animals!

 

 

 

Unless otherwise stated, photos are courtesy of Coveted Canines

 

 

Categories: ADOPTABLES, RESCUE GROUPS & SHELTERS Tagged: Adopt, Foster, Ontario, Rescue, Rescue Organizations

RESCUE COFFEE CO.

April 30, 2018 | 26 Comments

MAKE YOUR MORNING MEANINGFUL

For some people, coffee is the essential part of their morning routine.  Some even warn others ‘don’t speak to me until I’ve had my fix.’

For dog people, coffee comes second to the bouncy, good morning greetings and calls to nature (I was referring mostly to the dogs).

The brew starts as soon as my crew is out the door!

At one time, I tried to give it up based on recommendations by ‘the experts.’  I detoxed it out of my system, and admittedly, I did feel less anxious without the caffeine.  That said, the heightened anxiety might have been due to the amount of coffee consumed. I’m okay with a mug of dark nectar before noon.

I’ve done my research, and as far as I can tell, there are more ‘perks’ to drinking coffee than not.  As a migraine sufferer, it was recommended to me by a physician, that I consume coffee at the onset to deter migraines.  It works!  Consistent among the many sites I visited was the additional benefits of memory improvement and aid to prevent Alzheimer’s.  All things in moderation, I guess.  If you need further convincing, here is one more benefit to drinking coffee:  Saving the lives of animals in need!

SIP A CUP, SAVE A PUP!

That’s right!  With every purchase from the Rescue Coffee Co., you are contributing to the welfare of animals in need.

Company founder, Claire Vaughan, has been an animal-lover since childhood and although she has not outgrown her need to help homeless and lost pets, she is more realistic about not being able to keep them all. Claire has combined her youthful dream of helping animals, with her adult ambition of becoming an entrepreneur. Claire shares what inspired her need to contribute to the animals:

Claire and Theo

When I was a child, I was always finding homeless or lost cats and dogs that I would bring home in hopes of being able to keep them.  Usually, they were in a very sad state; malnourished, dirty, and sometimes injured. Most of the time we would be able to find the rightful owner of the lost pet, but the thought of a cat or dog never being able to have the love they deserve by being cared for in a forever home broke my heart.

I have always wanted to own my own business, but it was really important to me that it gave back and support the local communities around it.

About her crew:

(Introduced by Claire)

Nahla: I found Nahla as a kitten wandering around the City of Halifax by herself, very malnourished and sick. I took her in and got her all fixed up, and she’s now a very healthy and happy four-year-old kitty. She’s super friendly and loves to cuddle. She particularly attached to me, probably because I found her when she was only three months old. Finding Nahla almost felt like it was meant to be. She’s really what made me more aware of the issue of stray cats and unwanted animals right in our communities.

Nahla

Theo: My partner and I adopted Theo from the Moncton SPCA when he was seven months old. He’s a border collie, terrier mix and probably a few other things. We’re not sure what kind of situation he came from, but he was a very shy pup at first. He has flourished into a couch loving cuddle monster that just loves people and other dogs. Theo is now two years old and Rescue Coffee’s #1 doggie ambassador.

About the brew:

The idea to start Rescue Coffee came to light when Claire found herself feeling stuck and unfulfilled in a corporate job right after University.

I decided to leave the safety of my job and start a social enterprise around a cause I cared deeply about, helping animals in need.

Claire combined her love of animals with her appreciation for the locally roasted premium coffee. Rescue Coffee came to mind, and soon after, her dream came to fruition.

Rescue Coffee Co. offers fair-trade, organically grown coffee roasted in the Maritimes – a region in Eastern Canada consisting of three provinces. Claire points out that the roasting process is done by a family-run, small-batch roaster in Nova Scotia.

You can purchase the brew online, and it will ship anywhere in Canada and the US for a flat rate shipping fee. Free shipping across Canada for purchases over $100.

The collection includes everything from decaf to espresso as well as mugs and clothing. Packages of mug and coffee are also available. The fun names, along with the flavours are sure to brighten even a Monday morning!

WAKE & WAG – light roast

BLACK DOG ESPRESSO – medium roast

GO FETCH! – medium/dark roast

BARK & BITE – very dark roast

DOWNWARD DOG DECAF – medium dark roast

Coffee Co’s. Partnering animal shelters include:

THE GREATER MONCTON SPCA – takes in over 7,000 animals every year

THE NS SPCA – services rural and urban communities throughout Nova Scotia

SAVE OUR SCRUFF (SOS) – located in Toronto, Ontario, SOS is dedicated to rescuing dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. A dog in need is a dog in need.

THE P.E.I. HUMANE SOCIETY – the Island’s ONLY Shelter for homeless, injured and lost companion animals.

Rescue Coffee sponsors these incredible organizations by donating 10% of proceeds from sales to their cause.

When you purchase Rescue Coffee, you are providing fair wages to farmers, supporting local businesses, and giving rescue animals a second chance at life!

I’m not addicted to coffee, but I am completely hooked on my rescue animals. I’m grateful to people like Claire who, combine their passions and give back to their communities and support animals in need.  It has been a pleasure to share her story with you.

Thank you, Claire,

 

 

 

 

Categories: FOR A CAUSE Tagged: Coffee, Morning, Rescue, Rescue Organizations

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

REGIFTING FOR A CAUSE

December 22, 2016 | 37 Comments

HOW PET-RELATED ITEMS (NEW AND USED) CAN HELP RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS

Peace, Hope & Joy – photo taken at Georgiana Garden Centre

As pet parents, we accumulate, tons of pet-related items that we purchase, or have been given, throughout the year. Especially, at birthdays and Christmas.  It is after all, mostly about our beloved companions (of the furry variety)! I have items that still have tags on them and books on my shelf that I have not even read yet.  Some I will get around too, other, thoughtful gifts may be of more interest to someone else. In most cases, I will donate blankets, beds, collars, etc. directly to a local rescue.  Other times, (and until I win the lottery and money is not a concern), it is nice to know the following is an option and an opportunity to recoup some of those expenses.

Auction4Pet Supplies is a membership site where you can find anything from collars to crates and a portion of the proceeds from each sale is donated to Rescue Organizations.

The face of this wonderful site is Layla, a rescue dog. Layla and her person Ruth are the fabulous, founders of Auction4PetSupplies, helping to raise funds for rescue organizations.

Ruth shares:

I had been through a lot with my dog before Layla who passed away from IMHA (Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia) at the age of 6, just as we finally had a home of our own. I feel she left me knowing I was safe and it was time to give a new dog a home.

After three months of Baby’s passing, I started searching for a new li’l one. I could not find a fluffy in San Francisco, at the time. A friend of mine told me one day that he was going to L.A. for 5 days, and had a friend that did rescues and if I saw one online on Pet Harbor or Pet Finder she would pull her, and my friend would bring her home to me. I sat for five days, nearly 24/7 looking until I saw Layla in the cage at the Carson Shelter. I told the woman I wanted this dog, so they went to meet her on Saturday afternoon, called me from the shelter and told me this dirty, smelly mess was licking them. I said that is all I need to know; bring her home. Twenty-four hours later she arrived in San Francisco. I called her Layla which is Hebrew for Night as she is black and arrived at night.

The Lovely Layla

Why we decided to do the auction site: Over the years I’ve been watching the rescue organizations do auctions on Facebook, and noticed how hard it was to organize it. They would have to start a new page each time for each auction. Listing the pictures adds to the difficulty, so to give back to the Rescues I set up the site so that they could use our website to hold auctions for free. By doing so, I can help with the marketing and its a wider audience.

We also did it so that pet people who have pet related items lying around their house could auction them off; it is free to list but if there is a sale they pay 2 dollars to the website, the money being shared afterward with a rescue. It is also an outlet for people who do not want to have a website but make pet related items. Everyone benefits.

The Mission of the site is to help struggling Rescue Organizations. Each month, a percentage of the income from the site donated to the Rescue Organization of Layla’s choosing (done on a rotational basis).

It’s better to give. Photo taken at Georgina Garden Centre

Ruth explains that after many months of watching Rescue Organizations requesting financial assistance from members on Facebook, and watching Facebook control the Rescue Organization and other pages, we decided to put together this website from which everyone will benefit.

How does Layla choose which organizations to support?

Rescue organizations provide information regarding programs they believe to be worthy of funding, and if deemed viable by Layla and her person Ruth, support is given. Also, Rescue Organizations interested in a venue to ‘appeal to the public,’ are invited to contact Layla and Ruth, and they will accommodate where possible.

Do you have pet items lying in your house? Are you a small business that makes pet items?  This is an opportunity to auction the items on our site. A fee of US $2.00 will be deducted from each sale on auction and each month we will choose a Rescue Organization to receive a donation from us.

Rescue Organizations will also have that option to utilize our site for
doing auctions.  If you are using this site on behalf of a 501(c)(3) rescue
organization and would like to have your sales items highlighted at no extra charge,  please send a copy of your IRS determination letter to auction4petsupplies@gmail.com.

Gifts for all! Decorated by the team at Georgina Garden Centre

Items from and for almost all species are welcome including cats, dogs, ferrets, fish, hamsters, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits, and reptiles.

Types of items available:
Accessories
Cages
Crates
Aquariums and Accessories
Toys
Books
Beds
Clothing
Collars
Leashes
Harnesses
Grooming items
Bedding (mice, rabbits, etc.)
Jewelry
Animal themed jewelry for humans
Memorial Items

All you have to do is become a member and list items for sale or fill your shopping cart! Everyone wins.

Listed items are auctioned for a maximum of thirty days. There is a service charge of $2.00 (U.S.) per item (see Terms of Use on website).

NO SALE OF ANIMALS, OF ANY KIND, WILL BE PERMITTED ON THIS SITE!

Seriously, how ADORABLE are these dog items?!?!

In my head, I’m saying ‘I want that, and that, OHHHHHH and Reese would look DARLING in that’!

Don’t miss out on Boxing Day shopping – for the best cause!

Happy Holidays to you and yours,

 

 

 

 

Categories: FOR A CAUSE Tagged: Cats, Dogs, Fundraising, Rescue Organizations, Shopping

NO NAME VS. BRAND NAME

April 6, 2015 | 26 Comments

WHAT’S IN A NAME? 
Everything!
sarah window 2 (yellow)

in·di·vid·u·al·i·ty
noun

  • the quality or character of a particular person or thing that distinguishes them from others of the same kind, especially when strongly marked
  • separate existence

i·den·ti·ty
noun

  • the process of the development of the distinct personality of an individual
  • the condition of being oneself or itself, and not another
  • condition or character as to who a person or what a thing is
  • the state or fact of being the same one as described
  • the sense of self

Branding is a practice used to mark livestock as property in order to identify the owner in cases of lost or stolen property. Techniques include marking livestock with fire-heated irons as well as freeze branding, tattoos on the inner lip or ear, ear tags, ear-marking, paint branding and microchipping. Some methods are more humane (less terrifying) than others and, in fact, prove beneficial. For example, Eartipping is a universal sign that a feral cat has been spayed or neutered and makes the task of monitoring or managing a colony much easier. The procedure of removing/cutting approximately a quarter-inch off the tip of the cat’s left ear in a straight line is done while the cat is anesthetized for spay/neuter and healing is rapid. Microchipping is a simple procedure. A veterinarian injects a microchip which is about the size of a grain of rice, beneath the surface of the skin between the shoulder blades of your cat or dog. The process is similar to a routine shot for humans and does not require anesthesia. The bottom line is this; livestock is considered property as are the animals we consider ‘domestic’ companions.

The traditional cowboy captured and secured an animal for branding by roping it, laying it over on the ground, tying its legs together, and applying a branding iron that had been heated in a fire. Modern ranch practice has moved toward use of chutes where animals can be run into a confined area and safely secured while the brand is applied. Two types of restraint are the cattle crush or squeeze chute (for larger cattle), which may close on either side of a standing animal, or a branding cradle, where calves are caught in a cradle which is rotated so that the animal is lying on its side.

final 1 (1)

Does my tattoo make me less desirable? In the leather industry, a branded ‘hide’ is considered to have a ‘defect’ and is therefore less valuable. As well as different types of branding, the marks may be located in different areas such as the side or rump (butt branded).

When I mentioned my idea for a tattoo, my husband argued that I should not choose such a highly visible area for the ‘artwork’ and would I please consider a less obvious part of my body to mark. My response:

No, absolutely not

 

For years I have considered getting ‘inked.’ Not obsessively but I love all forms of art and the idea of ‘self-expression’ in such a committed manner. I was open to the idea. The reason I hadn’t gone ahead with the procedure was that I really could not think of anything I felt that committed to. Yes, I’m married but my husband and I both consider ourselves to be two separate pieces of a puzzle; together we make each other stronger and better individuals. I don’t need to wear his name on my arm. If I was going to get a tattoo, it would be something that meant something to me – something very personal to me. And, with most things in life, if you keep an open mind and live in the question – for however long it takes, the answer will come.

closeup2

I have been lucky to have animal companions with me throughout my life’s journey thus far. I’ve had pet snakes, rabbits, raccoons, goats, ponies, a bird, a hamster and of course, cats and dogs. I’m the girl that won’t say ‘no’ – to helping animals in need. I once took a basket of baby squirrels to a rescue organization after their mama had been hit by a car. Only certain shelters will take ‘wildlife’ so it was a bit of a drive to the nearest centre that would accept them. Upon my return home, I had three people from the area show up with baskets of baby squirrels who had also lost their moms. The weather had been unusually mild and for a longer period of time. This confused ‘the birds and bees’ and as a result, there were more squirrels. Most people would leave these little creatures to whatever Mother Nature had in store for them. I was glad these few people knew I would help them and did their part to ensure they found their way to my door.

I love animals with all my heart and will do whatever I can to protect them.

As a volunteer at various shelters, I see the challenges the workers face; overpopulation and crowding of stray and unwanted pets, lack of funding, illness which is easily spread and costly and time consuming to manage. Shortage of staff and volunteers as well as not having enough time in the day, add to the challenge. Staff will often stay late to try to catch up. Volunteers that are able to foster, and walk dogs, and cuddle and socialize animals are essential to the welfare of the animals that end up at shelters. Surrendered and stray animals arrive faster than staff members are able to process paperwork for them. Comfort and safety are the main priority however shelter animals often remain nameless and are assigned a number until such time as they are given a name.

pig

A name makes us relatable. It is a personal form of identity. In some cultures a name carries great significance and tradition and presenting someone with their moniker is cause for a party. For example, some European Cultures recognize ‘Name Day.’ Unlike Birthdays which are usually celebrated by close friends and family, Name Days are widely celebrated. Based on religious traditions or historical events, first names are assigned to a day of the calendar.  For example, the Name Day for Michael is September 29th, the day The Church Feast of Saint Michael is held.  In Greece, Name day is considered to be more important than a birthday.

Sadie is not my birth name; it is a nickname or ‘pet name’ given to me by friends.

As a profile photographer at my local shelter, I feel privileged to help choose a name for a cat before their profile is created online. My heart breaks each time I see animals online, referred to by their processing number or simply by their size, age and gender.

Seriously, who wants to be known as a LARGE ADULT FEMALE?

 

cow hug

I will see this ‘mark’ on my arm every day. It will be an affirmation of sorts; a reminder of what matters most to me. Every person can make a difference. No act of kindness shall be considered too small or insignificant. I must do what I can, whenever I can. I must do something.

cows (1)
Thank you Sam at Blackwood Tattoo
http://www.blackwoodtattoo.com/

Thank you Brenda and the team at The Wishing Well Sanctuary for allowing Gillian and I to visit your beautiful farm and meet these amazing beings http://www.wishingwellsanctuary.org/

Gillian Woods – whom I look forward to working with on ‘The Awareness Project’ (see tab above).  Thank you
https://www.facebook.com/gillyfacephotos

 

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/individuality

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

 

Categories: ADOPTABLES, RESCUE GROUPS & SHELTERS Tagged: Awareness, Rescue, Rescue Organizations

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