Lost in Space

We`re back, finally. After a month of mechanical, technical and internal difficulties, we are now back with our opinions and updates.
Apparently, someone had an issue with my November blog , so I was flagged. Don`t know what the problem was but I made someone unhappy. Please enlighten me. I re-read it and see nothing offensive about it. I merely state my own opinion and let the rest of the world think about what I say, if they choose to do so.
No matter. All will be well once again.
I had a heck of a time trying to remember all my passwords for various locations and this blog took me forever to get back into: very professional and well protected.
It`s going to take me days to find all my contacts again , as they were wiped out completely and my bookmarks are gone too( all lost in that great dumping ground in cyber space) so that will take me ages to refill with all my rescue sites and information. If you are reading this and have been waiting to hear from me, this is just a heads up. I am here and alive and will get to you asap.
My old Ford gave up the ghost(broken axle) so I had to invest in another beater. This time its a GM ..big sucker van and I sure hope it lasts longer than that Ford did.
We`ve lost a few people to disagreements but have been busy welcoming new sets of helping hands into the fold. We need fund raising like crazy if I ever want to see our dream of that neuter clinic become reality before its my turn at the Bridge. Any good ideas??
I pray that all of you had a safe and happy Christmas with your furfriends . I also hope and pray that 2009 will be a prosperous one for all.
I never give up my hopes of all rescues co-operating within the circle so that more animals can be saved. Its hard to get everyone on the same page but it can be done.
Our Christmas Adoptions at Cranberry were a success in that more people know about Wendy`s animals and we managed to tell everyone that showed up about all the great rescues in the area. I even sent a family to St Thomas to see about a cat. Neither Wendy nor I had the one they wanted. We are down to 3 kittens thank goodness.
I`ll be spending the next week catching up with my e-mails...over 1500 of which about 100 are relevant.
Christmas was very quiet without the huskys around. Jack and Kira aren`t getting any younger so we just sat around eating everything in sight and enjoying each others company. I got thinking of dogs and age and it isn`t all good. With aging animals comes worry about illness. I`m constantly feeling for lumps and bumps on my kids and I listen for coughs or sneezes( and of course watch every potty break for any change in what comes out). Since Maggie went so suddenly a few years ago because of cancer, I am very aware of all the signs and symptoms. My other handsome boy who went to the bridge a few months ago, had a heart attack so I`m told. Big dogs seem to be at risk for so many more health risks than wee mutts. But I love the big guys and girls the most. There`s more to cuddle on cold winter nights. And Jack makes me feel safe, even if he is a pushover for anyone with snacks. Kira would rather sit on the table and share your coffee than do you harm or even bark these days. She`s such a suck ..a spoiled princess...and she knows it. I am blessed to have them both.
I`m going to take off for now. Just wanted to let everyone know that things are almost back to normal .
later

Sunday Musings

With the snow up to my bumper and my plow guy so busy he couldn't`t get here until afternoon yesterday, our trek to the pound had to be cancelled. That sucks large.
The part of the world that could get out yesterday showed up . I am sad for the kitties that might have been adopted if we had made it .

Tillsonburg is becoming a strong animal advocate town as a whole. Their council listens and believes that animals have a right to live and be treated with respect . I applaud them and am grateful for their help with both the dogs and cats that we bring into rescue from Cranberry Kennels.
I see that London is also listening to the animal advocates and are implementing a Trap , Neuter, Release program for feral cats.
I am wondering why Oxford County as a whole can`t take its abandoned animals more seriously instead of relegating their care to Hillside(contracted by Woodstock and surrounding townships to be the dog/cat snatcher) or the OSPCA which has no facility for dogs around here and ships the dogs off to Brantford or Stratford.
I also wonder how many animals are killed at these two facilities and aren`t given chance to be part of a family . There is no need to kill any animal unless its so badly injured that a vet cant fix it, or if its so stir crazy it cant be rehabilitated. We in rescue are fortunate to have a great animal rehab within driving distance , so the dogs that have active issues but can be saved , are saved.
I feel that if given the love and time needed to rearrange a dogs thinking is half the battle to turn a barking, lunging fool into a lap dog. Trust is the key .
If you can show a dog trust it will reciprocate eventually.
The recent ruling on the BSL that reversed the court decisions , has been on my mind every day. I don`t understand how a responsible government can take the rantings of media and implement a killing law instead of listening to dog experts .
Most media and government officials couldn't pick out a so called pitbull when presented with photos. The law hasn`t lessened bites at all. The only thing it has done is to make owners of the restricted breeds into second class citizens where our Charter of Rights no longer has any meaning. This asinine law has killed over 4,000 innocent dogs whose only fault was to 'look like' a dog who may have bitten someone , somewhere, sometime. I wonder how soon it will be before the idiots go after German Shepherds or Rotti`s or any of the big breeds.
I have an American Pitbull Terrier X, Kira, a rescue who loves people to the nth degree. She is different in temperament than my Shepherds in that her fuse is much longer, she is more patient and she knows how to calm herself when she gets excited. I didn't teach her these things. Its who she is. I have spoken with other PB owners and they say the same. Why are our dogs targets ??
It has to stop before another breed goes to the bridge.
later

One little kitty

Yesterday was cold and wet but a few brave souls made it out to Cranberry Kennels to check us out. We managed to rehome one kitty to a young man and his Dad . That was worth the whole day to me. There are so darned many cats and kittens in the newspapers and on line that are free , I`m pleasantly suprised when any of our Purrbabies find new homes.
It looks like we will have a few dog adoptions this week too and a new dog foster has come forward to help us. She lives in the country with her own dogs who are well cared for and loved.
It would be nice if someone would take over the fundraising end of things for me. I have alot of people that want to help with that but few folks can foster for various reasons.
One of my good friends is moving back to this area . Maybe I can con her into helping with the cats. She always has two or three of her own hanging around so a few more will hardly be noticed.
My son is going to be the big 4-0 next Friday and I can`t think of a darned thing to get him. Money always works, I guess. But just the fact that he is forty makes me realize that I will be sixty next year and I wonder where my life went. I got to thinking about that and came to the conclusion that I have had a fairly decent but strange life . I have met alot of people, and most I can`t even remember their names but I can see the faces when I think of a specific time or incident so I still have part of my mind left. I think. I can honestly say that there have been people not worth remembering and I few I wish I could forget. People like that clutter the mind and kill the spirit.
There are few people in my life these days that don`t fit . As I weed them out, I dispatch them and move forward. I have learned to forgive quite easily but there are so many things I don`t understand the reasons for , I cant forget.
Its one of those "cuddle the animals and watch tv" days and I think I`ll do just that. Its been a difficult week and I need to flush it out of my mind with some chocolate and pop.
If you feel the need to read, check out CAVEAT or SOCIAL MANGE OR NATHAN WINOGRAD blogs for some insight into the past weeks goings on in the dog world.
later

Good Day EH!

Yes it is a good day. We`re back on Standard Time and I can have a normal nights sleep again. I wish the powers that be would throw Daylight Savings Time in the garbage. Our farmers no longer need that extra hour of light as they have huge lights on their machinery which enables them to be in the fields well into the evening. I`ve gone to bed while they were still combining the corn from the fields that surround my house and they were still out there when the 11:00 news came on.
Back in the spring , we had two little beagle boys, Martin and Lewis . They both went to great homes . Today, Lewis came back to visit for a few days. He is so well behaved and mannerly , I`m proud of him and his parents. Mom was having a small behaviour problem with him and asked me to see what I could do about it. You know me..I said yes of course. I`ll let you know how things turn out. But I suspect its a matter of Mom giving in too much and not sticking to the Nothing is Free rule.
Yesterday we started our Cranberry Kitty Christmas . The day was way too nice for anyone to be thinking of Christmas but we did put up a few decorations at the pound and then sat out in the sun, eating left over Halloween candy while we waited for the crowds of people to come to adopt our cats. Well, our crowd was about 7 in total and most will be back next week to see what kitties we bring then. Sorry to disappoint but we don't have many more than what was there right now. And I am truly thankful for that. But we intend to present our kitties at Cranberry every Saturday from now until Christmas from noon until 3pm.
When towns and cities limit cat numbers for each home and then ask for tag money for those cats, many of those people just dump their extra babies off in the country. I do understand why they choose that route though. Taking the kitties to the spca or Hillside wont guarantee the cats will live. Tossing them out in the country might get them homes at some strangers place. But , they forget that in most cases the pound will be called anyway and the cats will be in jeopardy again. Cranberry Kennels has rescue groups that take the left over cats from them . The cats are then vetted and placed for adoption in local pet stores( Ruffins in Tillsonburg for one) where they get lots of attention and willing adopters. But Cranberry only takes in stray and abandoned animals in Tillsonburg. Any others in Oxford would go to Hillside. How sad.
The longer I am involved with rescue , the more I realize how much patience one must have and when its finally time to say 'enough' with certain people. There came a time this past week, that I finally lost my grip with a few humans and laid things out in plain English. My love for dogs got me into rescue and now that I have seen what cats go through, I have more compassion for them too. Goals can`t be accomplished over night. Good ideas take time and hard work to become reality. And no one is an island. When the idea for Companion Animal Rescue came up , I knew it would take lots of time to grow and attract the right kind of people to help . I had a five year plan. Still do. CARO has good people willing to pitch in with fundraising when an idea is presented. In order to grow, CARO needs strong willed , independent , intelligent people to come on board to help run the business end of things. We also need open minded individuals who don`t fall apart at the first disagreement and are convincing enough in their own arguments that people will listen to them.
We also need people with faith in themselves and others. We all have some insecurities but most of us can work above them and don`t need constant reassurance that what we are doing is right . I have faith in most of the fine folks that have come forward to help the animals in this area. Rescue is hard at the best of times. When things are slow, only the strong and faithful will survive.
We don`t need inner conflict or secret messaging as if we were in first grade again. We do need open discussion and a willingness to listen.
We don't need character bashing, backstabbing,foot stomping , childish behaviour to suck up time and energy that could be better put to use caring for and about the animals. We are all equal and must work as a team.
We do need to stay on point, be more understanding of the situation at hand, have faith in each other and speak for the animals when need be. I am never too self involved to think I know everything. I am never to stubborn to ask for help or advice from my peers. The only way we are ever going to save the animals is to work together with a common goal and remove negativity from the equation. WE CAN DO THIS.
I needed to clear the air here as I know who will be reading this.
I have faith. Do you?
And I am still boiling mad about the governments stupid asinine decision regarding the non existent pitbull which hasn't made me the nicest person on earth this past week to discuss the issue with. I end up yelling and then crying . But that's me . If you have been keeping up with the other bloggers on the issue , you know I`m not alone.(Caveat, Social Mange)
I`ll be back !!!
later

Sunday , Beautiful Sunday

I think Sunday is my favourite day of the week. Its a day to give thanks , relax and reflect. So much has been happening lately , that I have started to appreciate my Sundays way more than I did in the good old days of my youth. I am thankful that the aggressive new approach that I have taken with Tobey`s displasia is working . I am thankful that the number of homeless cats and kittens has slacked off , finally and that my rescue friends are finding spots for our groups kitties. Another 7 were transferred out to another safe foster this week and more will go next week. The remaining kittens and cats will be visiting Cranberry Kennels every Saturday from now until Christmas with me . I have volunteered to help Wendy move her overflow by advertising and being around the pound to show her cats and in turn, that will free us up along with a few other rescue groups that help Wendy remain a No Kill shelter through out the year. I feel we are making a difference when we give adopters lots of information on cat care and send them to vets who dont charge an arm and a leg for neutering. Wendy is seeing a slowing up of her cat intake and thats awesome. People are listening and less cats are being turfed or getting preggers. I cant believe I only have 3 wee babies left in care. There for a few weeks I felt like cats were coming out of the walls( me and every other rescue organization). Everyone I know has been working their butts off to rehome these Purrbabies and get the left overs neutered as soon as possible. Our own vets still like to wait until the five to six month to neuter but I know some vets do it much sooner. My opinion doesn`t matter on this one. Preventing more kittens from being born into a questionable life and keeping the neutered cats indoors, sure helps everyone with numbers and worries . I`ve had some sick kitties this year and some didnt make it. My garden is about as full as I want it so neutering is high on my list when I speak with people about animal care. I still get calls every day from people trying to dump their own cats into a rescue situation . Once I hear their story, I can usually convince the good people to keep Kitty around with some behaviour tips and letting them know that the cat is family and not disposable. There are times when a cat absolutely needs into care and thats when I start e-mailing my rescue friends to see if they have room .
Since we are newer than most other groups in the area, they usually have more foster homes or more spaces in stores to display the cats. We lost our spot at Ruffins in Tillsonburg but the rescue thats in there now is also taking cats from Wendy so it all works out in the end. I have learned that even if one doesn`t totally agree with another rescues policies, we are all basically trying to accomplish the same things and have similar goals . We can work together for the larger good; the big picture: That is less dead animals around here, less animals being scraped off the road and less animals going for research. Its great having Michelle within ear shot as well. She is the local and legal Wildlife Rescuer so if I find an injured squirrel or any other critter, I can call her to come and fix it and get it to safety.
And I just looked out the side door. I put ancient dog food out in the swale for the birds and there is a handsome pheasant husband out there having lunch. I feel I have done something good today and I will try to do better tomorrow.
later

tears and smiles

Its been a busy day and yet very empty. There`s something missing. Its way too quiet.
The Sibers didn`t sing today. My heart is heavy with grief with no time to mourn.
My Ozzie Man went to the bridge yesterday and I wasn`t with him to begin his journey.
My big rolly polly Sammy laid down and died sometime between breakfast and lunch.
It seems he had a seizure of some kind. I can`t tell you how horrible I feel right now. He was all alone and he`s gone. There are so many questions in my mind and I`m sure you know every one of them if you`ve ever lost a four legged friend. I look out at the yard and see a hazy him through my tears. I miss his happy kissyface . His physical self will be back in a few days to sit in my china cabinet with my Maggie Dog and Kane until its my turn . I can watch over him now as he has watched over me for his lifetime. They will all be buried with me. And I pray there is a Bridge . This is too hard to take without believing in God and His love and the Bridge.
If you have never heard of the Bridge , here`s a description of sorts .
Its full of hope for things to come and along with my tears, I can smile.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

later

Saturday`s Child

Juliene went to his new home today. While emptying my inbox afterwards, I read this piece that was sent to me by a fellow rescuer. Its worth sharing because it explains why we do what we do in a kind and gentle way that all can understand.

ANIMAL RESCUER'S CREED

I'll never bring about world peace
I won't single-handedly save the rain forest
I am not a brain surgeon and I'll never transplant an organ to save a life.
I don't have the ear of a powerful politician or world power
I can't end world hunger.
I am not a celebrity, and God knows I am not glamorous!
I am not looked up to my millions around the world
Very few people even recognize my name.
I'll never win the Nobel prize or end global warming
There are a lot of things that I'll never do or become.

But today I helped place an animal!

It was a small, scared, bundle of flesh and fur that was dumped
at a shelter, or on the streets by unfeeling people who didn't care what happened to it,
but yet who were responsible for it having existence in the first place.

I helped find it a loving home.

It now has contentment and an abundance of love. A warm place to sleep and plenty
to eat. Two little girls have a warm and playful new friend who will give them
unending affection and teach them about responsibility and love.
A wife and mother has a new free spirit to cuddle, nurture and care for.
A husband and father has a furry friend to sit in his lap at the end of a hard day
of work and help him relax and enjoy life.
And a sense of satisfaction, that when he is gone all day at work, that there is a
gentle spirit in his home keeping watch over his family.

No, I am not a rocket scientist. But today, I made a difference!
And I'll do it again tomorrow.

~ Author Unknown ~

later

Murphy`s Day in the sun

What a glorious day it`s been.
I got up late. The furkids let me sleep in for once and I am grateful for that I wasn`t even functional yet when Sam showed up with Timmy`s and Juliene. She is always on the go so I`m never surprised to see her. Juliene`s home visit didn`t turn out well so he came back here to play with his buddies for now.
We all got busy and had breakfast and then it was Murphy`s time . Whenever one of my fosters is having a visitor, I spend an hour or so with just that one special baby. We play and talk while I clean ears, trim nails and do some last minute brushing .
Murphy knew something very special was going to happen and watched my every move with that smile he has, plastered on his mug.
Murphy has been through so much , its hard to believe that he is still alive. While doing xrays to see how far advanced Murphy`s heartworm was, our vet found a few pounds of buckshot lodged under his skin. Our Murphy had been shot too. And if that wasnt enough, there are signs that Murphy`s right leg had been broken when he was a baby and it healed crooked.
None of this mattered today. Murphy was going home. To his new, real, loving home.
His new Mom and Dad showed up right on time and Murphy knew instantly who they were.
He didnt bark or make strange at all. Within seconds of meeting, Murphy was in Karen`s arms and giving kisses. I no longer existed. I tried not to cry but did anyway And thats how it should be.
It tells me that I have made the right choice for Murphy and that he will be loved forever.
Thats what this is all about , folks.
Murphy has gone home and I thank God for allowing him to pass through my life.
later

co-operation

I wondered how long it would take for them to get here. The SPCA came by yesterday. Apparently they had a complaint about there being too many animals at my house.
The funny thing was, she didn`t know my name ,only our group name. I answered all her questions as truthfully as possible and we chatted for quite some time , even shed some tears together. The poor woman has two counties to cover alone and handles every complaint. We talked about 'No Kill" and she understood that there are ways to handle most situations ( her reference point was aggressive dogs) without putting animals to death 'humanely'. I even offered to foster for their organization and she seemed shocked and amazed. But she is also upset that Woodstock has no facility for dogs and all have to go to Brantford or Stratford to face their fate.
This nice lady gets paid for what she does. SPCA is a business first and a charity second. Their cat adoption fee is around $140 while ours is $95. But thats not the point here. I totally understand her interest in something as new as a real rescue in Oxford and I can see why she would think that all the animals would be in one place because thats what their organization practices. I told her about all of our fabulous foster homes all over Oxford and about our friendships with petstores, Vets and Cranberry Kennels.
Without our friends, we couldn`t and wouldn`t do what we do. This isn`t a one person show. A rescue effort takes many ,many people . The SPCA relies on a building with cages to store their cats where they can be managed effectively. They also spread their funds around so that all their places of business have money for the necessities.
CARO is made up of volunteers. We have no money. We have no facility. We only have us and our determination to protect and rehome as many unwanted animals as we can .
It would be nice to have a building for our extra companions but for now, we have our foster homes in place and I thank God for that.
I told her that down the road a few years, we`d like to have a spay/neuter clinic with kennels for boarding and housing our intakes for their quarantine periods. It would make it easier for us for sure. We`ll take it slow, only take emergency intakes and surrenders and build our communities trust.
I`m hoping that she and I can come up with a plan to educate the general public about vaccinating and sterilizing their companions so there wont be so many going through their last days at the pound. And sadly, the SPCA. Maybe I can work on that with her too. There are alternatives to every issue in life. God gives us choices.
I`ve made mine.
later

Rescue is more than dogs and cats

I read alot when I`m waiting for a phone call or taking a break from laundry. This morning , I ran across this little piece of inhumanity and would like to share it with you.
http://www.torontosun.com/News/Canada/2008/06/19/5920186-sun.html

I have to wonder, are we feeding our companions horse meat in disguise?
I don`t know one human that eats horse meat nor would they.
I know horses die just like cows but I never knew there was such a disgraceful act involved in getting horses to slaughter. I realize that sometimes a horse needs to be put down and maybe I`m naive in some ways but this is just plain nasty.
I`ll be looking into it further. When Clayton Ruby gets involved in an issue, you can be sure its important.
What to do ? What to do?
later

Putting Out Fires

A while back, when I volunteered for a different rescue group, the director used to tell me she would handle all the back and forth doings and any nasty stuff that came up. She used to call it 'putting out fires'. I`ve been doing that all day today. I had plans of doing yard work. Well, how silly can I get? Planning is just a waste of time anymore.
There`s this older person that just gets on my last nerve and I`ve tried so hard to be nice to her for the sake of the dogs. Doesn`t do any good but I`ve tried.
My phone isn`t working well today either..wet basement means wet wires which means no calls incoming..or messages getting in either ..so I`ve been e-mailing all day.
A nice man , in his 80`s wants a dog. I may take Tina over to meet him and see if he is all there .
Had an emergency call to bring in a dog yesterday. He`s in care and fine.
The bank put a whack of money on hold and now someone is very angry with me because a cheque was returned. I did call the bank and asked why. They said the money isn`t on hold now. I get so confused. Why did they do it in the first place.??
I called the vet about Murphy and haven`t been able to talk to her yet. I`ll call back because she cant call me.It looks like we`re in for more rain. Like we really don`t need it . Murphy hates storms and I`m glad I mentioned that to the vet so she can sedate him before thunder and lightening starts up or he`ll be in a mess . He has to stay still and quiet for a few weeks.
I worry so much about the animals , its a wonder I have any hair left ..
and I`m out of ice-cream!!!
later

Spring Fever

Well, that`s my story and I`m stickin` to it.
I have a billion things to do today and its just too nice outside to do anything but enjoy the weather.
I got Murphy to the vet first thing this morning to begin his Heartworm treatments. We were scheduled for last week but had to cancel because the meds took too long to get there . I am so thankful that animal medicine is advancing and we can save dogs that are infected with Heartworm more often than in the old ways. I didn`t know until yesterday that vets sometimes have to operate on a dogs heart to rid them of the worms. But that`s in extreme cases , stage 4. Murphy is stage 1-2, so will be on the mend in a day or so, with total bed rest for a few weeks until the worms have been expelled from the heart. It`s an expensive treatment process but well worth it, in my opinion. Any donation would be welcome right about now. Murphy is a love and a joy to have around . The best part is that he has a great new family waiting for him,when he`s back on his feet.
I had a busy day yesterday. First , an appointment with the vet to have three kittens vaccinated and then off to Ruffins with them and Oprah, our young Siamese mix girl . Dave , the owner /operator of Ruffins in Tillsonburg has graciously agreed to sponsor our kitties and help us find them good homes. Adoption fees still apply and the contract is clear so there is still a safety net for the kitties to ensure they will be cherished forever . People need to learn that cats and dogs are not disposable and are family members to be treated with love and respect.
Oprah will love it there . Lots of people petting and cuddling her or maybe she`ll have a home fast because she`s such a purring machine.
Then it was over to Cranberry Kennels to help Wendy lighten her load . She is right full of stray cats and kittens and expecting more every day. I brought home 3 boys , all friendly , all clean and healthy looking . We`ll get them vetted when we can get them in. Then its their turn at Ruffins. If you want a cat, she`s got quite a variety over there and she`s around every day to let you see and touch the animals that are for adoption.
So, once again, I`m up to my arm pits in kitty litter but thats alright. The boys are safe . And thats what this is all about.
A friend of CARO has been caring for a stray mom and her kittens in her garage and its seems they`re ready to leave. I`ll go get them tonight and set them up in the living room ,out of the way of my dogs until they get used to the barking. Then off to the vets.
`Tis the season for sure.
I see the Mennonites have started their annual puppy sell off . The first sign is up today. Pug Puppies For Sale. I wonder if they could get busted for running puppy mills out there or if they are exempt. They don`t vet their cats and dogs . If you know anyone looking for a pup and that really wants to do a favour for the animals, buy the mom instead.
If I had a million dollars.....
later

Thngs

There`s so much going on in the world these days, important things, that sometimes its hard to concentrate on the job at hand.
Another Canadian killed in a war Canada didnt start. It frightens me. My granddaughters fiance is over there and he tells her that he`s there to keep the peace. She knows better . So do I.
Canada has become much more than peacekeepers in this world of insanity. I pray he comes home in one piece as I look forward to the wedding next year at this time.
People shooting people . We have plenty of that here at home. Where the hell did all these horrible people come from. I see that T.O. has another new gang. And the Mayor wants to be King
PETA has settled with KFC so the chickens wont suffer during their journey to the bucket. But they killed almost every animal they supposedly rescued last year.
CBC wants to stop using the Hockey Night In Canada theme song. But thats the only time anyone tunes in to CBC because most of the other programs suck.
Everyone has their own agenda I guess. Me, included.
The dogs are wandering around my chair ,pushing and shoving each other as usual and slobbering on me on their way by.
I like my life. I live alone with my furkids and a few retired racing huskys that belong to friends who could`nt take the dogs with them when they ended their marriage.
I live like a hermit. No one comes out here except my Brother in law when I need something fixed. Its quiet and peaceful out here.
I dont have to wear a bra or make up to please anyone.
There are no bombs out here or gangs. The occasional mailbox gets dinged by a beer bottle and I scrape the squirrels off the road that get flattened by the huge trucks that drive too fast on their way to where ever.
I don`t have to worry if the knick knacks are all dusted or if theres spots on my glasses.
No one comes here. People think I`m insane because I live alone with my animals and am happy.
I`m poor as a church mouse but for the most part , I`m very happy. I think because I don`t have much to loose, I don`t worry about material junk.
I do worry about the animals and their health and safety. I worry about the animals that are out there unwanted and hungry. I worry that I won`t be able to help them . I worry that no one is listening to me when I ask for help for those animals.
And then , when I lay down at night, and I count heads, I feel blessed . I have very little room anymore. Jack and Tobey,my shepherds, have always started off the night on the bed in their own spots until they get too hot and get down. When Tina came, she was so frightened , I let her have the other pillow so she could cuddle if she needed to. Then theres little Dennis , who`s supposed to be my moms dog but is here most of the time, squashed against my right leg. Bob , my orange , toothless cat sleeps on my chest or head which ever he chooses. Jessica , my little tabby girl climbs up to touching distance with Bob. Now added to the mass, is a wee poodle boy who was so nasty when he got here, I thought he`d never get over his fear. He sticks himself into any space available as long as its close to my neck.
I have no more room but I know that all these kids are safe . So I stop worrying for another day.
I`ll do what I can for the others in the morning. And I pray for the rest of the world thats so full of hate and turmoil.
Rest ,Peace
later

No Kill and sunshine

You know how much I care about all the animals in this world . I`ve been doing some extensive reading on how to make this a reality in our area. We are fortunate to have support with this from some local kennel operators and a few respected people in the business community . We all feel that there is no need to kill any dog or cat unless it`s far too injured to repair or is too sick to nurse back to health. We have terrific vets involved in this idea as well and they seem to have some secret ways of re-homing even the most seemingly un-adoptable( not my words, but heard often from other rescue agencys and pound situations) of animals. This is not a dream but totally doable.
I am looking at different ways to advertise our older animals or ones with a disability. And so you know what I know..there is no overpopulation of dogs or cats.
There is no need to kill an animal "to make room for another"
Animals are killed needlessly for the money. Dog catchers get paid according to the numbers they present to councils. In Woodstock alone, Hillside Kennels is being paid $90.000 a year to pick up strays. Thats just Woodstock. I believe I read that last year they killed off over 300 cats and around 126 dogs. Does that include the ones that went to research after that 3rd day? They have contracts with several townships and municipalitys in this area .After 3 days , that animal belongs to them. They can do what they want with it. Options are: adopt it out at an outrageous price , unvetted, Sell it for research for a good buck, or kill it and dispose of it by incineration where it then becomes landfill. So , in your opinion, what are the most lucrative business options for Hillside.?
How can we talk them into being open for visits on a daily basis and at times when folks can get way out there? How can we convince them to allow rescue groups to help when they are full, instead of going for the needle or shipping off for research.
How can we convince this business that perhaps they`d sleep better at night if they found homes for more animals at a reasonable rate ?
Any ideas??
This is the first day that I have an opportunity to get outside and do some much needed yard work. While I`m out there, I`m going to check around for any standing water and get rid of any weed patches . I dont want any of my animals coming down with Heartworm or Lyme disease . No breeding mosquitoes around here please?
And I think I`ll haul out the Musk Oil to protect myself too. I`ve noticed a ton of bees this year and I`ll be on the look out for Yellow Jackets coming out of the ground to chew me up. My animals only have me to protect them . Hope you do some checking around outside yourself today. With all the rain we`ve had and this humidity, we have good conditions for bad bug breeding.
later

uphill all the way

My friend and I are really finding out how hard Rescue can be. We are trying to make a difference in the lives of animals and families in our Oxford County. We understand that money is tight for many people . We know that vet fees are out of reach for some families. What we don`t understand is why would anyone allow their pets to reproduce if they can`t afford to get that pet they have, looked after. They could keep their pets indoors, in yards and on leash during those certain times that dogs/cats really want to get together. And those pets should be kept indoors, in yards and on leash anyway.
And my friend and I respect ways of life and religions other than our own. But, if dogs are livestock , and cows, horses and pigs are seen by a vet, why wouldn`t these same people allow their dogs to be vetted and kept healthy. Sure would prevent alot of parvo, lepto,rabies and so on.
When a family finds out that their pet is ill, why don`t they follow through . If they don`t have money to pay for medications and hospital stays, they could make arrangements with their vet and pay a bit at a time. Or if they are coldhearted, they could have the animal killed right then if they want to pay for it. BUT NOOOOOOOOOOO
They`d rather throw the sick animal out and let someone else take on their responsibility.
Right now, I am ready to scream.
We took in a handsome boy a while back and waited to see if his family would come for him. Nope.
So, we had him vetted. And Heartworm tested. Guess What? The test was positive.
I am thankful that vet medicine has come so far that we can find things like this out and cure the animals. Hopefully. It depends how badly infected the dog is.
Murphy is a love and I sure hope he pulls through. He starts his treatment this Wednesday. I have let the prospective family know and gave them an out . Their response was that they weren`t going to abandon Murphy the way his first family did and are in it for the long haul. These are the kind of people that all rescues are looking for. Compassion, understanding and dedication are values that are rare these days.
But back to my bitch. I bet you dimes to donuts , that Murphy was thrown away because he had Heartworm. And I know the old owners won`t be reading this blog. They would be too busy with their new un-vetted puppy.
Last week we picked up some pups from Trails End. They had their shots on Friday. Today , two of them are dead. Why? No idea. Of course it was blamed on Parvo. I don`t think so. I think that too many vets look at rescue dogs and suggest killing them instead of saving them. One of those pups new family has decided to do the adoption thing all over again with another one of our dogs. They feel that the vet was wrong too. But ,even when it is parvo in pups, that can be prevented . Shots for Mom is all it takes. A few dollars to save Mom and her pups . But people who would take their dogs to an auction to be classed as livestock aren`t too concerned about shots . Money is their motive. Dogs are a means to get that money. The dogs suffer. And die.
Yes, its all uphill . But, damn it, some of us honestly think that dogs and cats deserve better with a chance to be healthy and happy.
My friend and I are going to be very busy looking after the animals in Oxford . We will struggle until there are no more to fix. We will work until we have a shelter and clinic that everyone can afford. We will try to educate the ignorant and soften the stubborn .

We have to do something. It takes work and determination. My friend and I aren`t afraid of work and we are about as determined as it gets. Why not join us? Sure makes the time go by fast and you get to hug animals whenever you want to.
later

IS ANYBODY LISTENING? HELLO??

A few weeks ago , I mentioned that companion animals were being auctioned off in our area. We have seen tons of pleas across the board to help stop this practice in the States but , no one is doing anything about the goings on right under our noses. It is time for rescues to clean up their own back yards and then help their Canadian neighbours , instead of bringing in more dogs from the States. And I mean now. Not next week. If you feel like being a do gooder, then expose the garbage that goes on in local shelters and pounds. Save the animals here. And don`t give me that old " rescue has no borders" crap. You are letting our own animals go to the needle or gas and blowing your own horns by being such good' stewards of animal welfare" Give me a bloody break.
I told you and every one that would listen, including every rescue group in Ontario, that dogs were being auctioned at Trails End in the London area. Did any of you go and check it out? I doubt it.
So, guess what?? One of our girls went there yesterday and at my request , grabbed every dog she could. Four pups, about 8 weeks old were sitting there , frightened and unwanted except for the money they could bring in. They are now in foster care with us.
This is just the tip of the ice-burg and no one is listening to me. Whats wrong? Am I not important enough? Smart enough? Not associated with the right political party?
AUCTIONING OF UNWANTED PETS IS UNACCEPTABLE.
Get off your thumbs and check out the underground animal trade in your own area. It sure doesn`t take long. I dug around for one day and got extremely upset.
Just because the pound/shelter in your town is empty doesn`t mean that there aren`t hundreds of Ontario dogs and cats that need help. And will die because your group fosters are full of Yankee dogs.
Wouldn`t it be better to see zero kills at all Ontario shelters and pounds? Or at least get it down to 1 or 2 % to account for the poor babies that get hit by cars or are so ill that they aren`t fixable.
I am so sick of seeing mutts being sold in every paper and website for ridiculous prices .
Do something about that if you need a local cause. Write letters to the editors or webmasters. E-mail the sellers and explain nicely what they are doing wrong.
Put it on your own websites. Do SOMETHING for the animals in Ontario.
The mere fact that the Humane Society is bringing in animals from the states, makes me shake in fear for the dogs in their back rooms that they feel are 'un-adoptable'
Get a grip, people. The Yankee rescues have just as many resources available as we do here in Ontario, or they wouldn`t be offering all vetting for any dogs that Ontario rescues take. And I`m a little amazed that you think transporting an animal for two days is actually a good thing. Tell that to the little Yankee pup I have buried in my garden. Too long a trip, too young , too many mysterious germs along the way.
They have Best Friends and many other really good small town rescues and really do not need our help. And please don`t even mention PETA and the H$U$. They talk a good story, grab your money and then kill as many animals they can. They both believe in annihilating any dog that resembles an American Pitbull Terrier or any of the breeds that are mentioned in our so called 'pitbull ban' which is the stupidest piece of legislation that our government has every tabled.
I feel that the only reason that some of the groups wish to continue importing these babies , is that the vetting is already done at a cheaper rate, so their adoption fees will stay in the bank instead of going on shots and altering and Heartworm tests for local dogs and cats. Someone once told me that Rescue is a Business and should be handled like one. I am guilty of helping with American dogs but now I know about these frigging auctions, that little experiment has come to a complete halt. My conscience won`t let me ignore the animals in my Ontario.
What happened to the pure ideal of rescue? Helping to re-home the unwanted animals in our own areas. Taking in the un-adoptable and turning them around.

I had a report of a pregnant Potbellied Pig being auctioned off at this same place recently.
I wonder who`s table she`s feeding.
later

Kira

Last night I went for a short drive to clear my head. And I took Kira with me . My Am PB Terrier loves car rides and slobbers all over the side windows while she talks to every person she sees. We stopped to drop off my sisters cooler that I had borrowed for the walk and had Kira stay in the car. My sisters dog doesn`t care for any dogs and I didn`t want an incident. Well, that lasted about a minute and a half. My nephew spotted her and just had to see her up close . My brother in law headed for her too and before I could object they had Kira out running in the yard, their poor dog forgotten in the house crying to come out and fight . My sister was having a panic attack because she can`t hold their dog so I went in to talk to her and shut the door.
When I came out both boys had huge smiles on their faces and said they wanted Kira for themselves. NOT. My sister would have a stroke. Point being , that the fear mongers aren`t doing their job any more. My Kira is the ambassador for kissing "pitbulls'
She loved every minute with the guys and her eyes were as big as saucers because she was having fun with humans that weren`t afraid of her. Each time one of them bent down to pet her, she`d lick their face off. Tough dog, my Kira. She`s legal and tagged thank goodness but she had a hard start in this big cruel world. She has learned to love humans again and I am thankful to have her in my life.
Love really does conquer all.
I thought I was loosing her on January first of this year. She started having seizures, one after the other and I couldn't`t dial my vet fast enough. I didn't know what was happening and I was crying on the phone while I tried to keep her from hurting herself.
After some testing , my vet determined that she is epileptic and has been forever but has now matured to the point where it was damaging her. She has always been a slobber girl .Was when she came to me . But I was told by another vet that it was just stress. I have learned differently .
Any dog , starting from puppy hood that drools and slobbers excessively, should be tested for epilepsy. It isn't costly and it could save a dogs life. What if Kira had been alone during her seizing.? What if I hadn't been here for her.?
Now she is on simple , inexpensive meds and will be for the rest of her life. And , I`m assured that she will live a long, happy one.
My bad day turned into one of being thankful for my girl, Kira. She managed to make me smile and see that things could be worse. For both of us. We have each other and that's what counts.
later

One of those days

O.K. I`m just about ready to call my shrink. It has been one heck of a day.
While I was driving Murphy to the vet this morning , a wee fluff ball of a dog ran out in front of me , while he was trying to grab a bird. Thank God I missed him . I was so very upset with the owner, I wanted to go back there and throttle him/her. But , after I calmed down, I felt that this little dog is well loved and wasn`t on the road by the owner`s choice. He had a little bandana on and was well groomed so he`s looked after . He must`ve slipped out the door when Mom or Dad wasn`t looking . It happens and this time the little guy was being watched over for sure.
Then , while reading my e-mails , there was such a disturbing forward on there , it`s haunted me all day. The horrendous things that humans do to animals frightens me . I wonder how they`d treat a human.
I did pick up a pretty little girl that has been sitting for two months , waiting for her family that never came , and she is an absolute delight. Her name is Muffin and she`ll be on the site really soon.
Phone rings. Hydro One. Shutting off my hydro in the morning if I don`t pay right now by credit card. Small problem. I don`t have any credit cards and never have. I asked for an extension of one week. My pension comes in next Thursday and I could give them the full amount then.
No. No . No. I spoke with as many people there that I could and got no where. I`ve asked my family and they have maxed their cards with reno`s and winter vacations( I`m not sure what a vacation is but I bet its expensive). I`ve asked the few friends I have. Can`t do it right now. Maybe later.
As I sit here writing , I`m watching the clock because tomorrow I wont know what time it is. It`ll be daytime and night time. I have no idea how much it is to reconnect the hydro after they shut it off but I`m sure its a bundle and I`ll be in the hole again. Such is life when one tries to live alone with animals. I don`t know what will happen and I`m not supposed to. I`ve done what I can , including paying this company a ton of money every month for many years. The winter knocked me out and it`ll be hard to recoup but I`ll manage somehow.
I know no one reads this but its a good way to vent just a little. If you are reading it, I hope your day was better than mine.
I`ll have lots of time to hang out with all my furkids for the next week.
I`m sure glad that God is on my side. I`d hate to think what my life would be like without him.
later

Neither rain , nor sleet......

Our big walk has come a gone. Although it was freezing cold and threatening to rain any second, I didnt feel it at all.
My heart was full because of the people and dogs that showed up to walk for us, all bundled up and ready to go. Rescue is difficult at the best of times. No amount of planning can guarantee a perfect outcome. To me , it was perfect. And fun. There is little in my life that gives me more joy than being surrounded by animals. I am renewed and now need to focus on other ways to get our furkids noticed and adopted. We have cats everywhere and I need the time to get their pics up for the world to see.
The kittens are finally old enough to leave Mom , so they are first on my 'to do list' for this week.
They say it takes a village to raise a child. Well, it takes a whole county to raise a dog or cat. Thats what we need. Community involvement . And baby steps so we dont get too far over our heads.
I am proud of what we have accomplished in these first few months. And I am meeting wonderful people every day. I had given up on humanity as a whole but now I see where the line is drawn between animal lovers and animal haters.
Mary Ann, I know you are reading this, and I know you expected more . I`m off to pick up two more kittys that were turfed and then back to pick up Chance from the vets .
He`ll be on the site very soon.
I have tons to do today(and everyday)so I`ll just say thanks Mary Ann and Paul for telling the world who we are and I`ll see you ...............
later

How Could You

I was cleaning files today and ran across something I had saved awhile back.
The power of the message is overwhelming and unless you have no heart at all, you will be affected by it. If you know someone that has done this very thing to their companion, perhaps you can print it off and give it to them for me. This is one reason we at C.A.R.O. take in so many surrenders. We want to stop this saddness from happening.
I am copying in entirety and I hope the author forgives me . Its something that needs sharing .
____________
HOW COULD YOU?
By Jim Willis, 2001

When I was a puppy, I entertained you with my antics and made you laugh. You called me your child, and despite a number of chewed shoes and a couple of murdered throw pillows, I became your best friend. ...

Whenever I was "bad," you'd shake your finger at me and ask "How could you?"
-- but then you'd relent and roll me over for a belly rub.

My housebreaking took a little longer than expected, because you were terribly busy, but we worked on that together. I remember those nights of nuzzling you in bed and listening to your confidences and secret dreams, and I believed that life could not be any more perfect.

We went for long walks and runs in the park, car rides, stops for ice cream (I only got the cone because "ice cream is bad for dogs" you said), and I took long naps in the sun waiting for you to come home at the end of the day.

Gradually, you began spending more time at work and on your career, and more time searching for a human mate. I waited for you patiently, comforted you through heartbreaks and disappointments, never chided you about bad decisions, and romped with glee at your homecomings, and when you fell in love.

She, now your wife, is not a "dog person" -- still I welcomed her into our home, tried to show her affection, and obeyed her. I was happy because you were happy.

Then the human babies came along and I shared your excitement. I was fascinated by their pinkness, how they smelled, and I wanted to mother them, too. Only she and you worried that I might hurt them, and I spent most of my time banished to another room, or to a dog crate. Oh, how I wanted to love them, but I became a prisoner of love."

As they began to grow, I became their friend. They clung to my fur and pulled themselves up on wobbly legs, poked fingers in my eyes, investigated my ears, and gave me kisses on my nose. I loved everything about them and their touch -- because your touch was now so infrequent -- and I would defended them with my life if need be. I would sneak into their beds and listen to their worries and secret dreams, and together we waited for the sound of your car in the driveway.

There had been a time, when others asked you if you had a dog, that you produced a photo of me from your wallet and told them stories about me. These past few years, you just answered "yes" and changed the subject. I had gone from being "your dog" to "just a dog," and you resented every expenditure on my behalf.

Now, you have a new career opportunity in another city, and you and they will be moving to an apartment that does not allow pets. You've made the right decision for your "family," but there was a time when I was your only family.

I was excited about the car ride until we arrived at the animal shelter. It smelled of dogs and cats, of fear, of hopelessness. You filled out the paperwork and said "I know you will find a good home for her." They shrugged and gave you a pained look. They understand the realities facing a
middle-aged dog, even one with "papers."

You had to pry your son's fingers loose from my collar as he screamed, "No, Daddy! Please don't let them take my dog!" And I worried for him, and what lessons you had just taught him about friendship and loyalty, about love and responsibility, and about respect for all life.

You gave me a good-bye pat on the head, avoided my eyes, and politely refused to take my collar and leash with you. You had a deadline to meet and now I have one, too. After you left, the two nice ladies said you probably knew about your upcoming move months ago and made no attempt to find me another good home. They shook their heads and asked "How could you?"

They are as attentive to us here in the shelter as their busy schedules allow. They feed us, of course, but I lost my appetite days ago.

At first, whenever anyone passed my pen, I rushed to the front, hoping it was you that you had changed your mind -- that this was all a bad dream... or I hoped it would at least be someone who cared, anyone who might save me.

When I realized I could not compete with the frolicking for attention of happy puppies, oblivious to their own fate, I retreated to a far corner and waited. I heard her footsteps as she came for me at the end of the day, and I padded along the aisle after her to a separate room. A blissfully quiet room.

She placed me on the table and rubbed my ears, and told me not to worry. My heart pounded in anticipation of what was to come, but there was also a sense of relief. The prisoner of love had run out of days.

As is my nature, I was more concerned about her. The burden which she bears weighs heavily on her, and I know that, the same way I knew your every mood.

She gently placed a tourniquet around my foreleg as a tear ran down her cheek. I licked her hand in the same way I used to comfort you so many years ago.

She expertly slid the hypodermic needle into my vein. As I felt the sting and the cool liquid coursing through my body, I lay down sleepily, looked into her kind eyes and murmured "How could you?"

Perhaps because she understood my dogspeak, she said "I'm so sorry." She hugged me, and hurriedly explained it was her job to make sure I went to a better place, where I wouldn't be ignored or abused or abandoned, or have to fend for myself --a place of love and light so very different from this earthly place.

And with my last bit of energy, I tried to convey to her with a thump of my tail that my "How could you?" was not directed at her. It was directed at you, My Beloved Master, I was thinking of you. I will think of you and wait for you forever. May everyone in your life continue to show you so much loyalty.
___________

So to all of you that have chosen the above path for your most trusted friend, Have a nice Day.
later

Are there any answers?

While browsing the KIJIJI ads the other day, I come across one where a person was asking why ??? so many people have little mutt dogs for sale at such high prices. You know the ones, pugles, shitzus mixed with JRT`s, and so on. They are asking between 500 and a grand for these little mutts.
It upsets me too . These back yard breeders flood the market with mini breeds because thats what the people want. "People want small breed PUPPIES." It blows my mind . Why?? And how do these people get away with it???? They seem to make breeds up as they go, mindless to the stress they are putting their so called pet under to squeeze out pups every six months. I say "Shame on you "
I can tell you that honest breeders will charge just as much for a purebred and will also guarantee the health of the animals. But reputable breeders also check into anyone applying and many people don`t qualify to adopt for very good and various reasons. They say no to families that cant really afford to care for their babies properly or have no intention of sterilization.
Thats where the money mongers come in. They adopt to everyone and anyone as long as they get their money. Then another backyard breeder springs up as soon as the new pup is ready to breed at 6 or 7 months and the cycle begins again. Money, money, money. No one cares about the dog. What has happened to the human race that they no longer care about God`s creatures??
And then, when that dog is of no further use, these idiots call rescue because of allergies or moving or their aunt Eunice died and we take them in. Or they throw the dog out for the pound to pick up and kill, so they dont have to spend any of their "hard earned money " on vet care for a badly used dog. Yes it makes me sick. Very sick. And very worried.
Several rescues in Ontario are now importing pups from the States to meet the demand for puppies. Along with that comes new viruses . Just ask me. I`ve helped bring in 3 different litters . Of the first litter, one died and of the 3rd , two of them spent days on IV to survive. We have spent alot of money to get and keep these yankee dogs alive. And yet, I get pleas every week from the States to take more dogs and pups . I`m no longer accepting imported dogs for our rescue. And it has nothing to do with the money spent. We need to concentrate on our own backyard and help all the animals , young and old who have no voice.
Dont even ask me about PETA and H$U$.
These two groups combined have killed more animals than the total of all pound kills in Ontario.
And they have more money than the government . Your money. They dont spend dime one on rehab or rehome of any dogs. They kill them. Check it out yourself. Why arent people catching on to these scammers??
So that leaves our Ontario rescues , shelters and pounds full of older, larger dogs. I bet that 99% of these older dogs were much loved family pets once. As proof , I offer Chase, a 5 yr old intact male shep/collie that I brought in yesterday. This boy is awesome. He has manners, house and crate training , loves kids and all other animals..but....he`s too big now and the kids have allergies and they have to move and...say what??..the kids are school age..the dog is 5 ..they`ve moved before and kept the dog...something smells and it ain`t the dog..
You know what? They have a new , small dog...I guess the kid is only allergic to big sweet dogs.
Why do I bother?? These are the dogs that need help the most.
Next year at this time, those puppies from the backyard breeders will be older, untrained, unaltered and turned out. Rescue is there then for the dogs (and Cats)
Cute only lasts so long.
I have my own questions.
Can you think of anything I can do to help these older dogs even more? Do you have room in your heart and home for a dog that may only live a few more years?

Can you see yourself walking past an older dog, lying quietly in a shelter to get to the bouncy puppies?
Why???

later

rules vs suggestions

I have trouble letting any of my dogs go out the door and into a new home. Always.
I am suspicious of everyone and trust no one. If I hear one syllable waiver during a conversation with applicants , I usually try to send them off to a different rescue.
There is no room in the pounds for one of my dogs. They have been through enough and deserve only the best families I can find. It may be the first applicant or the tenth before I consider a phone call. I can dispatch the unworthy by e-mail.
Yesterday has made me wonder if all my preparedness with the families is for nothing.
There were two urgent phone messages and five e-mails for me on Thursday saying that this certain family had to bring the hound pup back that they had adopted last October.
I was stunned . That's 6 months. Their excuse was that the pup wouldn`t listen and kept running away.
O`K. why is that??
Well, I had told them at the time of adoption to do some research on the breed they were adopting. I sent along a short piece to start them off from Wikipedia so they would get the idea. There were also several other articles in the adoption package ranging from Separation Anxiety to Crate Training. They assured me at that time that they would take this sweet little girl to classes to keep her socialized with other dogs and people. The classes would also show the family what the dog was trying to tell them and then everyone would be on the same page.
I don`t argue with people anymore as it only makes me angry and I say things I shouldn't`t . I sure don`t need anymore enemies in this world so I smile and tell them to bring her back at their convenience ( which meant the next day )
I have also learned to listen.
Here`s the deal.
-no crate( she was crate trained when she left and is happy to be back in one again)
so she wandered the house and got out as many times as she could because she had no guidance or safe place when she was alone. I`m not sure what all got destroyed but I bet it was alot of wood and furniture.
-they tied her out in the yard to do her business , instead of going with her( she broke her chain and went over the fence)
-no classes( The dog did what she pleased and has no leash training or recall of any kind )
She was picked up by animal control several times and luckily she has tags or she would be dead.
Could I have done more? If so, what?
I make the whole family sit and listen to me for at least 20 minutes while I go through all the reasons for the requests of fences , classes, no tie outs, crates, and so on. And that's only part of the visit. I watch how the dog is treated by everyone. I show them all how to walk with a new dog. I tell them about food and collars and love. I tell them about exercise and manners and staying socialized.
So why all at once did they want to bring this baby back?
She is frightened of her own bark. She`s too skinny. She wont leave me unless its to go into her crate. If she isn`t velcroed to me , she`s plastered up against one of my shepherds. A dogs brain is imprinted from the age of two months to five months. The crate and my dogs are part of that imprint. I`m grateful for that much.
In my heart , I know that the dog isn`t the reason that the dog came back.
Some people just don`t listen and some people have the impression that they know more about certain subjects than I do. Or choose to not give a damn. Its just a dog.
So , theres this little girl, crying her face off because she can`t have her dog anymore. That sucks large . And its the parents fault.
I`ve mentioned before that I don`t like to be told what to do. And I don`t tell adopters what to do . I don`t give them orders . I ask them to alter their pets. I ask them to crate and go to classes. Would it make a difference if I said they had to do these things? No!.
And now I wonder how many other babies I`ve sent out that are lost or dead because I made a bad choice for them.
No one ever said that Rescue was easy or simple.
I choose to keep going and keep trying to do better.
For the animals.
later

Hmm

Got to town a bit late yesterday but since the auction wasn`t going to start until 10 ish, I felt I had lots of time. I was 45 minutes late . The auction should have been just about to the veggies and fruit. Being on a Saturday, this thing should`ve been a huge event.
The place was locked up and not a car in sight.
Did I miss something? Was the location changed without letting the general public know?
Was it cancelled because of sun. I`m going to have to go underground again and find out .
I`m very curious . Maybe someone was listening to me and did something about it. Who knows at this point in time. So, I didn`t do any buying/rescuing yesterday but I still want to get to Trailsend one Saturday soon and have a boo.
I spoke to some locals in Hagersville last week about their weekly small animal auction and was told that its a bit of everything and not just dried up cows or calves with scours. I dont know if I`ll ever have a Friday morning free to check that one.
I only have one request to bring in a kitty today. I guess this nice lady has been feeding the cat in her garage for 4 years and has had him neutered but the farm is sold so she needs to find him a home. My rescue friends seem to be looking for cats to adopt out and I happen to have an abundance so this nice boy will be going to London.
The rescue network is a miracle for all the unwanted companion animals out there and I just learned that one of my friends in rescue now does bunnies. So you know who`ll be doing what at the next auction.
Another friend of mine has a rescued bunny and he runs the house. He sleeps with the dog and uses his own litter box . They found that he needed something to dig and scratch( I dont know anything about bunnies)so he also has his own scratching post . And he is neutered.
I remember when I was about 6, my grandparents brought home two bunnies for me for a birthday gift. I called them Twinky and Star. I loved and cared for those boys for a few good years. They had their own fenced area outside to play in when I took them out .
But our neighbours had a huge German Shepherd who thought that my bunnies would make a good lunch and one sunny day while they were out playing, he killed one and chased the other until he got it and killed it too. I can still hear the screams of my bunnies as they were being murdered. And all the while I was screaming for my Gramma to do something but she was afraid the dog would bite her. The neighbours were sorry of course. In those days , dogs ran loose and the whole village new each others pets.
That was then.
My rabbits were replaced by a kitten .
But I never forgot that day and I think its one reason I make sure my dogs are always secure in the yard or on leash when we go out.
I would feel just awful, if any of my boys and girls did harm to another animal.
I`m sure that everyone has stories like this. The world shares saddness and anger and pain.
Too bad we couldnt share more joy and peace.
later

Blogger: Animal House - Manage Posts

Blogger: Animal House - Manage Posts

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lost and found

Got an e-mail from a rescue friend marked high priority. Turns out that friends of hers had a dog at their house that was a stranger to them. This dog had followed the family dog home from a walk and stayed around. These people are adverse to sending a dog to the pound for some reason so they called our friend for advice. I went to see this dog so we could get it into the paper.
He`s a beautiful big boy , very friendly and quiet. I could see why he wandered away. He isn't neutered and likely smelled an intact female somewhere in the area. He`s safe at my friends house and will stay there until either his owners come forward or until we can find him a home. So in a few weeks, we may have a new boy to post on our site.
Here`s the rub with these dogs. If he is not neutered, is it because his family cant afford it? If so , how could they come up with the exorbitant fee that the pound charges to return pets to their owners??
I`m not a sticker for spay/neuter as it should be up to the family to choose what they want for their pet. (Our group does neuter all animals over six months of age for all the right reasons.) But they need to be aware of the consequences that evolve from no neuter. This is just one of them. Responsible owners need to speak with vets and find one that will work with them financially to keep their fur family member safe and healthy. There are great vets in Oxford that would rather take a few post dated cheques than have your dog or cat go without care.
Gotta go hug my dog
later

depends on how you look at it

Well, I went. And I was not disappointed. Although there were no dogs or cats at this small auction , there were other animals that will be dinner tomorrow. I got there at 6:30 and it was fairly empty still. Most people wait until the end to come for the animals.
After the cute little birds were sold for a few dollars a pair, they moved on to yard sale stuff .
Those little birds will likely be in some pet store today with prices of $100 or more with no health certificate.
Then they sold American produce for 1/4 of what you would pay in a grocery store and I could see lots of greedy corner store folks rubbing their hands with glee at the deal . Now unsuspecting people will pay the extra .
On to the animals. Lots of chickens, some ducks , a huge Tom Turkey, and pigeons.
A lot of these birds were show animals but wont make it there this year.
Pet rabbits , several, were sold off and there were only two there that I could see will be pets. They were the wee dwarf bunnies and they will be mauled by new owners today. Baby Guinea Pigs and a hamster were the next pets to go.
The local Mennonites have a huge bake table set up about five feet from the holding cages and I couldn't see me eating anything from that table . The prices were no better than at Basics.
The cages were apparently , up to par, but I felt that the birds were too packed in, not much room to move and all were very frightened. Those cages were dirty . I don't know how long the animals had been in them but I couldn't smell any cleaner of any kind anywhere . The floor in the building was dirty before anyone went in. There were probably a hundred crates along the back wall with dirty straw in them, waiting for the next animal to spend its last hours in.
Everyone there seems friendly enough. The auctioneer is only doing a job. The people running it are my neighbours. Damn.
I watched and I learned. I will be there again next week and any other day they run the thing.
Next week, I`ll go later, sit in the back row with the other serious bidders and watch.
On the 19th I plan to go early and try to get the dogs before the 'dog eaters and breeders' do. I heard the regulars talking about that.
I did rescue some tomatoes(washable) and bananas( come in their own wrap). Cant get any cheaper than the amount I paid.
If I had a building for the animals, we`d have bunnies and birds all over the place.
I think I was upset the most about the person that bought all the pet rabbits . I know people eat them . I only saw one meat rabbit there, the rest were pets. Why do people buy them as a spur of the moment pet for their already overly spoiled kid and then throw it away when the kid tires of caring for the poor thing.
If I ever have a Saturday free, I think I`ll drive up to Trails End by London and have a look around. Sounds like these same people make their rounds weekly and grab up cheap meat . I wonder what butcher shops they run? Remember, none of these animals have vet checks or health certificates. Have a look on line as to the miriade of diseases that birds and bunnies carry.
And I wonder, do I need some of those geese ? I`ve been thinking about it . Good 'watch dogs', ya` know.
The only place to wash hands is in the bathroom, way the other side of the building by the food area. Smelled good, wouldnt eat it.
Think about it. And take a crate with you if you go. or a leash . or a box. Anything.
later

dirty little secret

I`ve never been so tired in my life. Stress makes me that way. Its not the animals. Its not the fact that I got my car fixed on Saturday and now the brake light is on. Its not because my mother is wanting my time to do her yard and house work tomorrow. Or the fact that one of the Huskys has a vet appointment then too. Its not that my water heater is still out to lunch.
Its because I read today that Woodstock holds a small animal auction every week and is having a big one on the 19th of this month.(puppy season)I`m told this has been going on for years and I found out that a person who recently applied to foster for us , actually bought animals at this auction in years gone by . Guess who isn`t going to be a fostermom.!!! I made phone calls to almost everyone that my friend and I could think of to find out if this is legal. I found out that it may or may not be. I`m going to have to check it out myself this Friday night and get the real goods before I make a huge stink about it.
FACTS FIRST. Things like this go on in the States. Not here in Smalltown Ontario.
I`m almost afraid of what I might find. If there are animals sick or hurt or mistreated there, I`ll have to buy them and get them vetted. If I blow my cover, I wont be able to do any good to get the auctions stopped. Like I said, I`m tired. And I will be until I know that every animal at those auctions is healthy , well looked after and isnt there making a bag of money for someone.
But I have already spoken to someone that has known about this and hasn`t done anything because he doesn`t think anyone will listen to him or put a stop to it. I called the local humane society about the auction and they told me they wont go in there unless theres a complaint. They knew about the auctions. Kinda reminds me of the Yankee version of the humane society.
Why would anyone thats making money on the backs of animals complain?
I went higher up . When and if I have proof of any abuse to the animals, I have allies.
I have lived around here all my life and never heard of this. A friend in rescue lives around the corner from the thing and she didnt even know.
I wonder why, if this auction is on the up and up, it has never been touted more openly .
I found it on KIJIJI. Haven`t seen it in the paper or the shopper. No postings in the grocery store. Nothin`
I`ll fill you in as I go.
later , I`m too tired to write anymore

maybe its just me

I don`t like being told what to do. Ever. I like to be asked and then given the choice of whether I do it or not.
Thats how I feel about Spay/ Neuter.
My own animals are all sterilized for my reasons; to keep them healthier and to keep them home. In the case of my cats, Bob doesnt stink like an non-neutered cat and Jessica doesnt spend any nights screaming for a mate. Simple, practical reasons. But dont tell me I have to do it. I also have Kira, an American Pitbull Terrier that was a rescue and a long story to go with her ..By law, my government says that I have to have her spayed . She is and is also old enough to be legal.
And thats a second problem I have. Please dont tell me what animals I can own. But the government of Ontario does.
I am slowly having all my rights taken away. Where is the anger from the intelligent Ontario public.
When it comes to our rescued furfriends, we spay/neuter at 5-6 months for their own benefit . No one told us to. We want our rescued animals to stay healthy for many years . We also ask our adopters to spay/neuter any pups/kittens they adopt . Since they own that animal, they have the right not to .
Then there are the nay sayers that insist that since CARO takes in surrenders that we aren`t real rescue. I`m old and when I get too old to care for my fur kids , what do you suppose my family will do with them? Think about it. Old dogs and cats . Dead I would imagine. We take surrenders because they dont need to die .
I`m told that its good to vent . If thats so, why am I sitting here shaking , just thinking about the government and their laws.
I wonder how they are doing today with the new Animal Abuse laws. I sure pray it doesn`t get by.
More of my rights taken away .
And it wont help the animals at all. Nasty people will still abuse and mistreat animals . They don`t care about the law to begin with .
I`m so sick of the government having their face in my business.
later

Is it or isn`t it?

rescue (n)
	Synonyms: release, liberation, saving, salvage

Its official

I`ve been waiting and watching my snow patches disappear for days . And finally, my SnowDrops are blooming. For me, its a sign of spring, a time of rejuvenation, a time of rebirth and hope for the future. It all sounds so poetic doesn`t it? Well, can`t help how I feel these days.
Almost every phone call has been people wanting us to take in their pets. The reasons vary. Some are pretty lame and I`ve heard them before, like this one "I need to find a place for my 6 year old dog because my 5 year old son has allergies." It took that long to figure it out? I smile with my voice and ask the usual questions. And then I go pick the dog up. Why? Because its obvious that the dog will be thrown or tied outside for the rest of its life. This dog is no longer wanted by the family. If its let go, the pound will pick it up .
And then ....
Its a time for new beginnings and hope for the future for this dog. Life will get better for this dog.

I get calls from Cranberry and never hesitate to go for the dog or cat that needs us, regardless.
Yes, I`m too soft. Yes, we`ll get full . Yes, the vet bill will climb.
We will make room . We will call our rescue friends for help. We will beg for money.
I`m a Rescuer and thats what I do. 24/7/365

Love , Life and Lose

Today is a different kind of day for me. A friend is broken for something that wasnt her fault. A Rescue is rethinking their adoption policy. A family is without their pet.
Could it all have been avoided ??? In my opinion only, the answer is yes .
Rescues take in dogs that humans throw away. Rescues work hard to rehome these dogs( and cats) where they will be understood and loved forever. We have pups come in at 6-8 weeks that are already scarred by neglect and abuse and will never forget that treatment.
Sometimes , the match doesnt work , and the dog should and must be returned to the adopting rescue. There is no room for second guessing. A dogs life is at stake. And both the dog and the family will suffer.
However, if an adopter has all the information tools that are so readily available to them through any rescue group, foster home or the internet, the most serious of issues can be resolved before they get to the point of no return at all . That was the case yesterday. I dont blame anyone for the death of a good dog . I do, however question why there wasnt more communication and co-operation between both parties, OR why the family waited so long to do something about the dogs problem behaviour.
If there is an issue of spending the money to help the dog, I understand and so does every Vet we deal with and every rescue group. But these dogs are your family member and they will be for the next 10-15 years. If a person isnt ready with time and money to deal with problems, perhaps they shouldn`t adopt.
EVERY adopter must take responsibility for their new pets behaviour from the very first meeting. If they dont have the skills to keep the dog well behaved, socialized and free from illness, they should be willing to get help. They should contact a Vet immediately to see if the dog is ill if behaviour changes . Or they should call in a reputable behaviourist at once, if behaviour changes even a bit. Or they should take time to read. There are hundreds of articles on line that can help .Time and love doesnt "fix" a throw away.
Consistancy, re-direction of aggession,and the maintaining of Man/Dog heirarcy are needed at all times. Something as simple as crating , can calm a dog enough to work with it .
I truly dont understand whats so hard that humans dont "get it"
And people wonder why rescuers cry when their fosterbabies go to forever homes.
And why we check check check before even thinking of sending the babies out into a new world. And why we are so nosy afterwards.
And why every rescuer cries when a good dog dies.
So, my word for today is RESPONSIBILITY.
Just my opinion.
later

Beagle Explosion

I dont know whats going on out there in the real world but ,as a rescuer , I am being swamped with Beagles of all ages. I would think that since a handsome Beagle won at Westminister this year ,that it would be the other way around and that there would be a shortage of beagles. This breed is the most loving of dogs . They make good all round family members and love to be loved almost as much as they love food which makes them trainable. Nearly every hound that I have been asked to take isn`t housebroken. Why is that? Doesn`t anyone have any patience anymore? Do people expect dogs to train themselves? I don`t know. But I do know that Sam does a heck of a job getting the older beagles to go out for their business . Around here, the pups follow my older dogs out and learn from them. The babies that were sick , are already wanting outside. I have to keep them away from dirt and the like for a few more days until we are sure they are %100 but as soon as there`s a sunny day, I`ll be taking them out to the grassy part of the yard. I have no more time than anyone else and Sam is busy with work as well as her own dogs and fosters, but we manage to potty train. I would suggest that anyone adopting a beagle be calm,patient and have a sense of humour. This breed is the most fun to be around of any other. The one thing that maybe stops folks from taking them home, is that hounds dont re-call well or at all in some cases, so have to be on leash at all times when out of the house and yard. But it only makes sense. Hounds follow their noses. They were originally bred for hunting. It isnt their fault. I would rather have a little beagle child than one of the designer, foo-foo interbred, purse dogs that are all the rage these days. Beagles walk themselves and dont expect to be carried. They like to walk and wander so they can smell all the smells . I haven`t had one beagle come in that was even remotely aggressive when meeting the other dogs and there`s only been one that mouthed off when he saw the cats for the first time. Beagles need a break. Keep watching our site .
You`ll see what I mean. Oh, and p.s., Beagles dont make that much noise and are as quiet as any other breed when they are happy ,content and have something to do. If you call my house, you wont hear a beagle. My GSD`s do most of the yapping off.
Got an extra five bucks?? Anybody? Our Paypal is working . Give us a hand getting all these hounds vetted will ya`?
later

The same but always different

As I think back to when Sam and I decided to try this rescuing task on our own, I remember being a bit apprehensive. How much more can I take on without loosing my mind? Its been a few months now and nothing has changed from when I was 'just a foster'
I`m still making decisions for the animals in my care and still doing the adoptions my self for the most part. I`ve added a few more chores, like answering the phone a few dozen times a day and answering a few more e-mails. But nothing overwhelming . I even have some time to think up ways to raise some funds, even when I`m sure that Cayley will do a marvelous job down the road.
The May 24 parade in Woodstock is a big deal . I sent for info and found that this years theme is No Place Like Home. What an opportunity to introduce CARO to the world. Every home needs a companion animal or two or three.
We cant ask for donations along the route and we have to be nice but I think we could pull off a really awesome dog walk and show off our rescues at the same time.
That brings me to Ozzie, my Samoyed. A friend asked me to bail him out of the pound about 5 years ago. I did and took him to work with me at Wellington . The owner was to pick him up in a day or two and pay me. Never did that so I had Oz neutered because Donna found a lump in his one testicle and got him his shots. When the owner finally contacted me he was fuming because I had ruined his dog for breeding purposes. Dr . Donna escorted him out of the office and the Humane Society officially said that Oz was mine. Lots of laws and the fact that the owner had been lax as an owner anyway , helped me out there. Oz is now my official Husky Watchdog. I babysit some retired racing huskys and because they are registered their owner is afraid they`ll be stolen .
I hardly think so at 13-17 years but cant be too careful so as long as they live, Oz will make sure no one gets to them.
He, himself is getting as fat as me so I think I`ll start training both of us for the hike from the fairgrounds to Southside Park . I`m hoping to round up more walkers with pledge sheets and maybe have a Bar-B- Que afterwards. I`d take Kira but she`s a You -Know- What and people would be frightened because of all the bull they read in the papers and see on Tv.
So, now with the addition of Oz, that would make 4 dogs and 2 cats . But that was then.
Its 3:27 on Saturday. I have a lot to do around here. But I have been waiting by the phone because Sophie`s new family was supposed to be here an hour and a half ago.
Before that , it was last Saturday but there was a death in the family.
I`m learning patience at last.
later

Spring has Sprung

And in a blessed way. Our Pound Momma had her babies this morning . She let me be with her to watch her kids as they were born and after 3 hours and 5 wiggly wee ones later , she was ready for a drink and a rest. I can relate for sure as most women can.
Its been rough lately , with so many abandoned dogs and cats incoming . But this miracle came just in time to remind be why I do this rescue stuff. I am certainly angry with Momma`s ex-owner for throwing her away right when she needed that owner the most .
And I continue to wish that people would have the good sense to have their companions sterilized . There will always be plenty of kittens and puppies for those who want them. So there is no worry about running out . It would be grand if vets could lower their rates so the average family could afford vetting for Spot and Puff, which would help the cause to some extent but there will always be those weirdos that want their animals to have "just one litter" and then they sell them for profit instead of putting the money into vet care for that fur family member.
Today was a good one in that all five babies seem healthy and Mom didnt get into trouble when birthing, as some first time Moms do .
One more good thing. Nemo went to his new forever family and he has two little dogs for company.
The sun shone. I saw a robin in the snow. It was warm. Wendy`s tulips are peaking up out of the dirt. And every animal in this house is shedding.
Yup, its spring alright.
Wendy? She`s the lady that runs Cranberry Kennels. I was over there today picking up another female kitty. And I dont think she is pregnant. Cute though.
So, the house is full to bursting with cats and kittens .
My puppies are coming home tomorrow and I thank God and our vet for that.
Things are moving along with the group and we have Paypal up and running if there is anyone that has a few bucks to spare.
Its been a good day.

Rescue is more than saving a life

There are times when that life has to be saved twice or three times before a dog or cat can be adopted to the right family.
I brought in two baby beagles last week that were slated for death.
They were here two days when they stopped playing. And then they couldnt hold down food . They are now attached to I. V.`s at my vets fighting for their lives again. They dont know whats happening but we do. Someone didnt give their mom her shots and now they have Parvo. I am in the process of bleaching my home , clothing and yard. Although all the other 'kids' in my house have their shots, this deadly virus can hide out for a year and attack . I wont have it. And I am fighting back , but not as hard as the two beagle babies . I`m trying to find a foster that will take them when they are ready to come home because , the book says, they will stay contagious for 2 months and that would mean no more intake for the group. I wont have that either. Too many animals are dying around me and there just arent enough of us to go around.
And if that wasnt enough, I have no hot water .
The Gas Guy finally came and discovered that the water tank was leaking and wouldnt turn the gas back on. Yes, I called the tank supplier and was put on a list. Even though they say 24hr service, that only means that someone will answer the phone anytime in 24 hr, not that they will rush out and fix the problem. I refuse to accept this kind of treatment when the water heater is 15 years old and has been paid for 15 times over since everyone has to rent these days. I won`t have it.
I am going, with my brother in law, to Canadian Tire and buying a new electric water heater for 300 bucks and telling the gas people to come and get their tank out of my basement asap or it`ll go into spring cleanup.
So, I am boiling alot of water on the stove until Tuesday and bleaching everything in sight.
I have choices . I choose to save the puppies no matter what it takes .
I choose not to be treated as a number .
And I refuse to give up on my beliefs that Jesus died for me and that he rose on the third day. The government and their political correctness can go !!
happy Easter.

Sydney`s Day

Finally, we have an appointment for little Sydney. Fostermom Sam suspected she had a bladder infection so we took her in for a check. Since Syd has lost so much weight ( and needed to) a lump appeared on her hip. Vet Kathi says its a hernia and today our girl is having it fixed.
Sam`s mom got Sydney there by 8:30 where I met her and took her in for her pre surgery and to do all the paper signing. While Dr Brian was doing the pre- check, he made Syd wince while he was checking for stones and so an exploratory is going to be done first on her uterus area.
So now I`m worried and haven`t been until now. I asked when surgery was and they couldn't give me an exact time but I know its soon. I was going to go watch but it will be over before I get my chores done around here . They are going to call me when they are finished and I`ll go back then to stay with her while she wakes up. There are only so many hands over there and I feel that if someone Syd knows is around when she comes to, she wont be as frightened . Thankfully the staff is grateful for any help they get as long as I stay out of the way. No prob. There s a chair there with my name on it .
I`ll be back later

feels good

Although I doubt there`s anyone actually reading this jumbled mess of mine, it still makes me feel connected to my universe.
I had my Gas Guy rant on Thursday and I`m still waiting.
So back to my life .
I do this so you will see why I am an animal rescuer as my mental state has been questioned on several occasions . My life revolves around my own furfamily and several additions along the way that come in and go out to forever homes.
So far you have seen me deal with cancer and a genetic ailment with my dogs.
Now its Jacks turn. I was reading the local shopper one Saturday about 8 years ago and someone had a ' 9 month old male german shepherd, free to a good home' Now , as you get to know me , you will see that this kind of animal trading is in a class along with abuse to me.
I was on the phone and over there in a half hour, carrying a frightened GSD to my truck.
Jack is special. He still has separation anxiety every time I leave the house but he stopped chewing up all my belongings after a few tense months. No one had ever told me about this behaviour or crate training so we survived it the hard way. I still have to kiss him goodbye and tell him I`m going to work to get out of the house quietly.
So, now I have the 3 dogs ( Maggie was still with me then ).
I had added a cat along the way, Pekoe, so his owner wouldnt flush him down the toilet because she hated orange cats. He was less than 5 weeks then. But I was still uneducated about animals.
Pekoe was neutered and tatooed so I felt he was safe to go outside.
Just last year , I found him in the ditch beside my house, cut to ribbons and barely alive. He stayed alive long enough for me to get him to Doctor Donna and say goodbye. Then he went to the bridge to be with Maggie.
My life is a journey of learning and mostly its been the hard way. So now I rescue cats as well as dogs and bitch at any new owners about keeping their new family member safe inside the house , no matter how much the kitties cry and beg to go out.
Around this same time frame, I`d been working for my vet as a kennel attendant, another name for cleaning person.
I finally had opportunity to see what happens to pets at the vets.
I was allowed to watch surgeries and even got to assist sometimes when an extra hand was needed. This particular vet was also the one used by the local pound for any injured animal that was still alive after pickup. I was usually the person that cared for the injured so the tech`s could be there for the paying clients. I have many stories about that experience but not now. Its too depressing for such a nice day.
And then came Bob. Someone put this little guy in our entrance way at the vet office and left him for us to find. He was battered and broken but Dr. Donna has a soft spot for kitties and fixed him up for adoption. He went out twice and came back twice and no one would tell the truth why.
Donna gave him to me , completely vetted and he is still here with me. I quickly found out why he kept coming back. He had stinky breath. His face had been injured, likely kicked, and his little teeth were broken and rotting and his gums were damaged. He is fine now. No teeth. Eats whatevers in his dish. And sticks his tongue out when he`s sitting and thinking whatever it is that cats think.
By now you can see where my blog is going . I`m a sucker for any animal in need . And I am learning as I go.
Today , I`m spending out in the dog yard cleaning up winter doo. Anyone want to help. LOL
Later

hurry up and wait

So I`m sitting here waiting for the Gas Man and thought too much.
Thats what its like living a country life. Get ready for something and then sit and wait for it. Like Spring. Oh, I am so ready for Spring. Last week, Wendy from Cranberry called me and asked if I had room for a mom and two of her kittens. Being the never say no person that I am, I said yes.
When I went to pick her up, I saw she was preggers and her two kittens were , like, a year old and man, did I have fun trying to crate these babies . They are ferral , of course , and hate humans. So now I have holes in my hands but oh, well.
The point is, there`s this beauty of a cat , sitting in a huge crate with a birthing box in it, in my kitchen. I must check her 10 times a day to see if there are any babies yet and to make sure her dish is full. She has belonged to someone sometime and that makes me angry . That someone would toss this good kitty to fend for herself. She is used to the dogs and talks to me now . I pick her up and brush her and she purrs her face off.
One of her two kids escaped on me and is running around the house having a party with my other cats. I have no idea if its a male or female as no one could get to the point of checking without being battered and scratched to shreds. The other one is getting to a point where I can touch it and soon I`ll have it out , cuddled and sexed. Then off to the vet for either spay or neuter.
And , I`m still here waiting for the Gas Man. In the country thats a way of life.

later !