Friends Fur Life, Inc.

Misty Update

2008-06-23T15:54:00.001-07:00

Misty went to a wonderful family who live near Boston, Mass. She's so very happy with 4 kids to live with a little pom as her buddy and lots and lots of attention. She's been up there since around April 2008.

***

Update: 20 Jun

Hi Renee!

Sorry that it has been SO long! The last few months have been just so crazy-busy with the house for sale. The good news is that we have sold our Medford, MA house and have bought a new home in Westford, MA. Westford is 35 miles North-West of Boston (in Medford, we are 9 miles from the city). Our new town is much more rural, with lots of conservation land for walking. We also will have our own acre of land. I will be going back to work a little in the fall, but she will not be left for more than 4 hours. Getting out in the morning will be busy, so she'll have to wait until I get home for her walk, but she is very flexible and so understanding.

I think the move will be confusing for everyone, Misty included; but she is so bonded with us as her family by now, that I don't think it will stress her too much. We will all still be around, so I think she will settle in fine. Other than more snow, as we are further from the coast, I think she will like living in the country.

Here are some recent pictures. As you can see, Misty has claimed the brown couch in the living room, where she can see out the window and guard her turf. Misty is such a love, I can't thank you enough for this wonderful dog. The twins roll all over her and she is perfectly gentle. Annie gives her big hugs bout ten times a day. Annie also likes to feed Misty, so I think the dog is starting to associate hugs with liver, because she wags her tail and runs to the kitchen. She and Kip are also great buddies by now. They are always together, day and night.

Misty is in super shape. She is lean and muscular and can run really fast. Lately she has shown interest in hunting in the woods. She catches a scent and is off like a bullet. Can you imagine? She used to be such a couch potato! Anyway, I have to admit that I underestimated her hunting instict and she actually chased down and killed a woodchuck yesterday. That thing was big too. My fault. I really didn't think she'd hurt it and I should have grabbed her faster. I called the vet and they said she was protected from rabies and to put neosporin in any scratches she had on her face (there was just one little abrasion). It was scary to see her mouth dripping woodchuck blood and parts. Today I was much more careful during our walk. I will keep the leash on her from now on and correct her if she goes off path. I hate to leash her altogether because she loves it , and the exercise is so good for her, but I will have to be more careful. I just really didn't think Misty had the killer instict! But she is a mix of hunting breeds, and so now I know. Poor Mr. woodchuck!

So that's the update, other than to say that I have totally neglected my book project, but hope to get to it more now that I don't have to keep my house picture-perfect to show all of the time.

Hope you are having a nice summer. Today was the Solstice -longest day of the year.

Love,
Katie and Misty

Wiley

2008-06-22T17:26:00.001-07:00

Wiley (formerly Duffy) came out of the Campbell County Animal Shelter the day he was to be euthanized. He has been re-homed to a wonderful family in Maine back as of April 2008. There is also a cat that lives with him!

Home Visit

2008-05-24T21:09:00.001-07:00

Bingo tested alot of the floor space for naps. The right about of sun, no sun but carpet, against the half wall. I think the floor with the view to the backyard with the sun was his favorite. We went to the Assisted Living Home today and then did a walk in the woods and he got in about a 20 minute swim, the wind was strong on the water today, so he got to experiences waves.....the stick he liked best.....that I thought we should just bring with us.....drifted out of his sight....so the swimming ended. Tomorrow we will probably head to a place that actually has other people and dogs and do the Delta Training 1st assignment. Bingo is alread sound asleep. We came home put in some ball time, ate, more ball time...he is down for the night. The 30th is our 1 year.
~ Roberta & Bingo

A Cat's Prayer

2008-05-18T12:43:00.001-07:00

Now I lay me down to sleep,
The king-size bed is soft and deep...
I sleep right in the center groove
My human can hardly move!

I've trapped her legs, she's tucked in tight
And here is where I pass the night
No one disturbs me or dares intrude
Till morning comes and "I want food!"

I sneak up slowly to begin
My nibbles on my human's chin.
She wakes up quickly, I have sharp teeth -
And my claws I will unsheath

For the morning's here and it's time to play
I always seem to get my way.
So thank you Lord for giving me
This human person that I see.

The one who hugs me and holds me tight
And sacrifices her bed at night.
~ Author Unknown ~

Larry

2008-05-18T12:35:00.001-07:00

Larry
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

This is Larry (formerly known as 'Dude'). He was re-homed in April of 2008. His former family downsized their house and yard and felt it was too smalll for him. Instead of walks, they decided to find him a new home. It took a year but he finally found a wonderful home that is willing to invest in him with walks, companionship and love. Larry is so very happy!

Misty and the twins

2008-05-08T15:35:00.001-07:00

Misty now has a family and lives near Boston! She is pictured with here with the twins.

Happy Tales

2008-05-07T18:44:00.000-07:00

Remember Happy from Loudon (she had the funny curly tail)? She's in a home in Maine now!

Update: Tue, 6 May 2008
Hi I Hope you are well...! I just wanted to update you on our Happy Girl. She is doing great...playing with Phthalo like crazy, sleeps through the night on her bed in our room, LOVES all her toys, only one bathroom accident so far, sits on the sofa with Scott, etc...

I am attaching a couple of pics for you to see. I also just wrote a blog posting on my website about her adoption...thought you might want to take a peek at it!

Have a great day!
Noelle

Gidget

2008-03-08T13:41:00.000-08:00

This dog was rescued out of Campbell County, TN and fostered in Knoxville, TN while we got the vetting done. She's recently been sent to Catahoula rescue in Canada.

Macie & Danny Boy

2008-03-07T19:16:00.000-08:00

Misty Update

2008-02-04T17:46:00.000-08:00

Here are the latest pictures of Misty taken today. She loves to snuggle with the kids on the couch when they have some TV time. Although living with four children is sometimes chaotic, one benefit is that there is just about always someone petting her.

To anwer your question, we haven't seen the play biting in about two weeks. The boys now know not to rile her up too much in the back yard. She doesn't chase them when they run; only when they INVITE her to chase them, which they now know not to do. (Again, the humans at fault, not the dog.) Also, she stops whatever she is doing, when I call her name and clap my hands. She is so eager to please! It's easier now that she's interested in fetch, because it gives her and the boys something to do together that doesn't involve chasing, which seems to stimilate her desire to nip. She likes tennis balls the best. Also, I think she gets enough play biting with Kipper now that they play so much together. Maybe that was what she missed, having lived with many other dogs for so long. SOmetimes she tries to play bite me when I am putting on her coat. I don't mind, although I still tell her "no". I know that she is just excited to go for her run.
Misty loves her walks and jogs! We've settled on a morning routine that is part jogging in the neighborhood on-leash, part walking in the woods (lots of sniffing) off-leash, and a 20 minute stop in between so we can all have water and the little ones can play at the play ground. She does just great with this; not overly friendly with other dogs on-leash (protecting?), but no problem. I have to hitch her to a bench at the park while the kids play, so I can give the kids my full attention. I hate it and she doesn't like it much either, but she seems to understand that I need to catch the babies if they fall, so she has to wait. We keep it brief, and she's fine. She's such a good smart dog. At night after all the kids are asleep, Mike or I take both dogs for a walk around the neighborhood. On weekends, we all take both dogs for long hikes in the woods. She gets a lot of exercise and loves it and is looking great! her waist line is really starting to show.

Misty is an expert at the "please feed me, I'm soooo hungry" look! She would weigh 120 lbs. if we gave her all the food she wanted. We are trying to stay firm with her diet plan, even though we all love her so much, we all really want to give her lots of cheese and other fun snacks. She's such a good sport, though, because when she does get into something we know she shouldn't have (No, Misty, that bread Edward dropped is not for you - too many carbs), she gives it up, no hard feelings. You can reach right into her big mouth and take it away and she just lets you. Cooked carrots are good, though. Not too fattening and she loves 'em.

More later,

Katie

One more of Misty

2008-01-13T19:48:00.001-08:00

Jan. 2008 031
Originally uploaded by Michael Melanson.

It's a dog's life!

Misty

2008-01-13T19:46:00.001-08:00

Jan 2008 018
Originally uploaded by Michael Melanson.

Misty now lives near Boston, Mass. Adopted Jan 6th!

Misty

2008-01-11T19:30:00.000-08:00

Just an update on Misty. She went up to Massachusetts this weekend after being in rescue for over 3 yrs! She's doing very well! adopted to a home with 4 kids and a pom!
Things are going very well
Renee
***
Wed, 9 Jan 2008
Hi Renee!

Day 5 and another good day for Misty!

I left for a little while today to get her license. I hadn't left her since Saturday. You wouldn't believe the reception I got when I got home. Maybe she thought I ws leaving forever.

She did something very good this morning. Annie took hold of her tail. Not pulling, just curious; but I knew Misty wouldn't like it. But Misty had the greatest solution: she head-butted Annie away to let her know not to pull tails. I gave her a lot of praise for this. I thought it was a great doggie solution to annoying baby behavior.

Misty LOVES her jog / walks and we had nice weather today. It felt like March and a lot of the snow has melted. We met a border collie on our way and she didn't like him. Nothing major, but she gave a little warning sound. I thought of the border collie dog who got her in the ear. But more likely I think she was protecting me and the babies! This dog was a big alpha male type.

I've been meaning to tell you that I am so impressed at what a great job you and Robbie did with her in spite of having so many dogs. Misty has wonderful manners. When I walk with her, I have her leash tied around my waist so that I can have two hands on the double stroller. I still guide her with one hand, but she pulls against my midsection if she pulls, so that I can manage her better. Some of the streets are busy, so I have to keep her close. I must be quite a sight pushing two kids and an 85 lb. dog tied to my waist! Anyway, she has caught onto this so fast. She seems to understand what I need her to do and stays right next to me or behind me. I don't think many dogs would catch on so fast.

Tonight she did some strange running around and barking. She was so agitated that Mike and I were pulling our hair out trying to figure out what was wrong! It was so strange for Misty, who has been so quiet. Finally Mike said, "Take her license off." he was right. The sound of the license clanking against her ID tag confused her. She thought another dog was in the house. Poor Misty! I attached it to a different part of her collar and she was fine.

More later,
Katie

Tue, 8 Jan 2008
Hi Renee,

Misty is great. She is pacing less and is content to be on the same floor as I am rather than shadowing me. The hand shyness with Mike is gone today. She seems more confident and secure. I swear she has a more relaxed expression on her face.

Misty and I went for a long walk/jog this morning. It's warm here-into the 50's!. She did great. She has amazing stamina -better than me. I jogged her walked her on-and-off and offered her water every 20 min or so. I read somewhere that dogs don't naturally just run for miles and miles without stopping- you have to let them walk, run and stop and sniff, so we did that . We saw lots of people with their dogs and she loved the attention, accepting pats from everybody. She seemed to really like one set of beagles, Kara and Kailey. Do you think that baying reminded her of TN?

A neighborhood kitty cat approached us and she just sniffed and wagged her tail. We got home at noon. At three, I moved her leash and she heard it and came running. I couldn't believe that after doing 3 miles she was ready for more!

I am feeding her the recommended amount on the back of the Nutro bag. She's getting so much exercise that I feel that I shouldn't make her diet too. We'll see where we are in a month. She likes to eat, so I doubt she'd take too kindly to a diet plan!

She has the sweetest most laid back temperment, we just love her and are so glad that the yelling and banging around of a pile of kids doesn't rattle her. She just lifts her head off the couch pillow and then goes back to sleep.

More later,
Katie

Mon, 7 Jan 2008
Hi Renee,

Just a quick update on our girl. She's doing beautifully. She's still very needy and follows me from room to room, but that's to be expected. Sometimes she seems to get confused and seeks me out and leans against me for reassurance. She's seems comforted by lots of verbal and physical affection. She LOVES the walks. She jumps up when she sees the leash and has such happy body language as we set out, which is great to see. Misty and Kipper sleep together on the same rug or James's bed no problem. Kipper got possessive about my bed, but Misty seems to like her big cushy donut bed next to the radiator. Me, Mike, Kipper and Misty on a full size mattress would be a bit tight, so I'm glad she's satisfied. Her teeth were chattering on night one (never heard that-sounded like applause in the middle of the night!), so last night I covered her with quilts which she loved and seemed more comfortable. Saw a bit more of extended family yesterday for Daniel's birthday and did fine. Still hand shy with men; not aggressive, no growling, just doesn't want to be petted. It's not a problem. A watch dog SHOULD be slightly suspicious of strange men. She's warmed up to Mike, although doesn't always want to be petted by him either. We heard her bark this morning. Wow! The floor shook! Mike asked her if she was a good girl and she answered with two barks (playing, tail up and wagging). She seems to be getting used to our routine: when to expect meals and walks. The neighbors have a shepherd that they leave out too much. They go out for hours and leave her in a small yard with access to the garage. She barks and barks out of boredom. When Daisy is on one of her barking jags, it upsets Misty and she paces. She will probably learn to tune it out as I have. Misty continues to be super gentle with the kids. She likes to go outside while the little ones are puttering around in the yard. She follows them around and just stands near them. I don't think she's going to love the snow, but she tolerates it okay. It's confusing for her when she steps through the crust and her leg goes down, but I see her chosing her steps more carefully now. Sometimes she asks to go out and then backs away from the door when she feels how cold it is, but I give her a nudge and she does her business and then right back in. She adores the older boys, especially the oldest. Kipper is slightly jealous of this, or maybe even protectiveof "his boy", but it's very minor: just a little warning noise in the throat for Misty to be nice to James, which of course she is. Well, that's the update. Made the appointment with my vet to establish a record and plan to go to City Hall today or tom. for the dog license.

We love her! And I totally understand why you would find it hard to see her go - she 's a wonderful dog. Thanks so much for letting us have her. Everyone around here finds her looks so unusual and wants to know what kind of dog she is. We say that she's a Tennesse Special Recipe!

Katie

Ralph 2007

2007-12-28T14:42:00.000-08:00

Ralph in his new home.

Golda's Christmas

2007-12-26T15:10:00.001-08:00

Golda's Christmas
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

It looks like Golda had a great Christmas!

More Bingo

2007-06-17T09:58:00.001-07:00

More Bingo
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Bingo adopted out to a wonderful home in Mass.
***
We woke up late so I didn't get to chase the ball this morning....I went into my tent...Mom put a couple of cookies inside for me. She came back....then I chased my ball until I got tired, I ate dinner chased my ball, decided to check out the other frog pond my little friend showed me this one. About 8:45 #155 ....now that is 9:20 I've flipped and have myself pointed the other way. I know I am going to be woken up early again...thank goodness I have my tent....to nap in after mom leaves in the car. Tomorrow get more food...Ronne was all concerned about the recall but Mom check my beef is fine....Ronne throws better than mom....I can't wait until tomorrow when I can chase my ball again. ~ Roberta

Bingo's New Home!

2007-05-29T19:53:00.001-07:00

Bingo's New Home!
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Bingo was adopted on 5/27/07.
***
I had another great day, Went to bed at 9:00 Mom let stay in bed until
9:00 the we had breakfast of my crunchies and eggs, yummy bacon and some toast....then I chased the ball, walked the property chased the ball while mom gardened and threw at the same time. Went into the frog pond about 3 times, had more of my crunchies and a hot dog for lunch....took a 5 minute nap chased the ball chased, then ball chased the ball. Then we got me my Mickey Dog house for nap times. I guessMom has to got to work tomorrow.....I like the play area. It has the best shade and I can dig and have my toys....Oh and there are these really neat water fountains. Oh My new child friend tells everyone that he has a new dog....Ronnie throws really good. ~ Roberta

Reggie AKA Flash

2007-05-20T18:53:00.001-07:00

Reggie AKA Flash
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

I took some more pictures of Reggie (now named Flash) after his bath last night. Got a ton of fur off of him with a shedding blade and his coat is looking a lot better. Here are some pictures. He survived his bath, poor baby! *chuckles* I don't think he was impressed with my efforts. :-D But, he got through it fine. He hasn't had one accident in the house. So far, he is on about 1/2 and 1/2 of his old food and new with no upset stomach or diarrhea. Training is coming along nicely. I will definitely let you know how things go with him and Jade. Can't wait to get them both here. It will be nice to get moved over into the house where there is more space. Right now, things are kind of crazy with getting everything ready to move so he can't wander around too much off leash. But, when we take walks and take him places, I know he just appreciates that he has a home. He's such a love. Take care and we'll chat soon.

Nat

Madisonville Dairy Puppy

2007-05-20T18:31:00.001-07:00

This came from a lady who adopted one of the dairy puppies from Madisonville. it warms your heart to think that these dogs were living in a barn drinking milk or whatever they could get, (I was taking food down when i could) totally at the mercy of the weather, soon to be fully feral.

Thanks so much Laurie for taking them, Karen and Keith for helping that night with them.

***

Hello ...

I have to tell you ... thanks.

I was in today, I'm the lady that has two female pugs at home ... who recently lost my 8 yo male shephard.

I adopted one of the little puppies from the litter of 6 ... the one with the brown on his face.

He is just the sweetest little boy .... loves to be on my lap ... loves to SHARE my lap with the pugs ... and loves to play with the pugs.

He has gone potty 4 times since being home ... all 4 times, outside (twice, he started crying so I took him out, and he went).

Please tell everyone involved in his care, that "Mater" has settled into his new home very nicely ... and that the pugs are enjoying having a brother in the house again.

Thank you so much, for the work you do.

Valerie

Happy Tail from one of our adopters

2007-05-20T18:29:00.001-07:00

Thought you all might like to see what came through petfinder. This helps the organization as well.

***

We received the following story from one of your adopters and thought that you would like to see it.

Thanks again for all that you do.Mike
Petfinder.com

County: Hamilton
Local Paper: Indianapolis Star

Pet Name: Flash
Type Animal: Dog
Shelter Name: Friends Fur Life Inc
Shelter ID: TN413
Location: Knoxville, TN
Found on
Petfinder.com: Y

Entry:
We had been looking for a very long time for the right dog. We had an idea about what we wanted and contact the Friends Fur Life, Inc Rescue. Renee was so very helpful in helping us choose the right dog. The dog we actually inquired about ended up not being a good fit for our family. But, she told us about several dogs in her rescue that would work for us and asked if we would be interested. Reggie (now known as Flash) was the one that stood out to us because of his sweetness and gentle personality. We found out that he had been saved from euthanasia at a very high kill shelter in TN and had been taken to Friends Fur Life. I can't believe that a dog like this wound up as a stray and taken to the shelter. He is as close to perfect as they come.

When we brought him home, he walked right in like he had been here forever It was almost as if he knew that this was his home. I think that it was meant to be. I think of the many people involved in Flash's rescue and I can't thank them enough. He's right where he should be and he'll never be alone ever again. If you are considering a rescue animal, but are afraid that rescued animals have baggage, don't be hesitant to take a chance on the right one. It might take awhile to find the right one, but you can save 2 lives - the animal you adopt and the one who gets to come into rescue because a spot opened up to take them in. Save a life - Adopt a Rescue Pet today! You won't be sorry.

Updates from Pals4Pets in New York

2007-05-20T17:53:00.001-07:00

Just thought you'd all like an update on how things are going up
there. you won't believe it!

So far they have adopted out these:
Harley - chi/doxie mix adult (fostered by Robin)
Jake-beagle mix adult (fostered by Becky)
Faith - bc mix puppy (fostered by Amy and David)
2 boxer mix puppies-brown (fostered by Renee)
4 dairy puppies (snatched up by Renee the day before the run from an
abusive dairy in Madisonville) - taken care of overnight by Keith
and Karen
West - the skittish dairy male that had a shaved back (snatched out
of the dairy the day before the run by Renee)

Today they have appointments to show the following dogs:
5-6 dairy puppies
Sweetie (fostered by Becky)
The last 3 BC puppies (fostered by Amy and David)
Carmel=cattle dog mix (fostered by Krystal)
Both of Carmel's puppies(fostered by Krystal)
Hopa - (fostered by Suzi)

Aussie momma (fostered by Nancy) and Spanky (fostered by Renee) are
both mildly HW positive (Laurie knew this before taking them). They
have already started treatment on both of these.

Aleksandr update

2007-05-08T14:37:00.000-07:00

Renee,

Thanks for such a quick reply.

I came across your website while looking for an e-mail address for the veternary clinic where he was vaccinated. As for his littermates, I believe they were adopted already when I saw him. I think Pals 4 Pets said he was passed over by other people because of his longer hair and the others looked more "corgi." He was also really shy and afraid of everything. But each time I walked by, he would wag his tail and crawl closer to the front of his kennel to see me. From what I could tell, he didn't seem to respond much to anyone else. He really picked me rather than the other way around. Of course I also thought he was the cutest one there.

He now weighs a good 40 pounds. In addition to his long legs, the hair on his chest and behind his ears is really fluffy. His tail and "pants" also are feathered (rather than the "bottle brush" tail I think you usually see on a corgi). Except for his ears, color, and markings, he doesn't look much like a corgi and has been mistaken for a number of other breeds.

The trainer I'm going to believes in breed-specific nutrition. So, it would be really interesting if possible to find out what his mix is. Since you rescued them all so young, I thought there might be a possibility you were familiar with the parents. Or maybe the paperwork from Louden might be more specific? Right now, I'm assuming he is basically cardigan corgi as there is a cardi breeder in your area. But that is just a guess.

Anyway, I appreciate your help and can't say enough how pleased we are with him. He really has been a great dog and I thank you again for rescuing him.

Tom

Success Story

2007-05-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

Dear friends at "Friends Fur Life,"

Last October (2006), I adopted a puppy through "Pals 4 Pets" rescue in Upstate New York. He was identified as "Pup 3," a medium hair, red and white corgi mix, about 20 weeks old. He weighed about 15 pounds at the time and had recently been treated for kennel cough. His rabies vaccination record was from the Knoxville Animal Clinic.

I was just hoping to find some information about him so you can imagine my surprise when I found this baby picture of he and his two littermates posted on your website! He's the shaggy one standing on the left.

His name now is Aleksandr and he lives in a household along with three rescued cats. When he isn't dispersing his "herd" of cats ("reverse herding" seems to be a corgi specialty), he enjoys daily walks along the lakeshore, through trails in the woods, and visiting neighbors all along the block.

Since October, he's met close to 1000 people and over 100 different dogs. Everyone he meets comments on what a great disposition he has. He's already completed a basic obedience class and has started in advanced obedience. Even the trainer comments on how Aleksandr is always happy. He must be really glad to have a home!

I'm very interested in any information you might still have about his background and especially whether you know anything further about the breeds of his parents. Many thanks for your rescuing him, I can't imagine a better dog for our household!

Sincerely,

Tom

P.S. For your reference, I've attached a copy of your photo that I found on the web. Here also are three more photos of him at home: his first day home, playing with a favorite toy, and practicing "sit-stay" out on the bird-watch deck in the park (one of his favorite places).

Very Important Meeting this week!

2007-04-15T14:03:00.001-07:00

Hi all,

There is a VERY IMPORTANT County Commission Meeting this coming
Thursday evening, 4/19/07, at 7:00 in the old Courthouse (Room 430)
in Maryville. The importance, the County Commission will be voting
on a motion to approve $350,000.00 and 12-acres of land to begin
design and construction on the first phase of a new Blount County
Animal Center.

If you live in Blount County, know people who live in Blount County,
I urge you ALL to come to this meeting. Right now there is very
limited Animal Control in Blount County, and SMACF (Smoky Mountain
Animal Care Foundation) has been working tirelessly to get with
county officials to get onboard and help build a new Animal Center in
Blount County that all of the residents can be proud of.

Last week, Mayor Cunningham and the members of the Animal Control
Committee approved a motion (along with the Finance Committee) to
defer $350,000.00 out of Debt Services to another account, along with
12-acres of land owned by the county, to start construction of a new
animal center.

We (SMACF) need a HUGE showing of public support at this upcoming
County Commission meeting to let the commissioners know that we, the
residents of Blount County, want to see a positive change in the
welfare of animals in our community.

So, call your friends, your neighbors, your family and ask them to
come and support this motion at the upcoming meeting. Also, call
your County Commissioner and let him/her know that you are a strong
supporter of the motion to move forward for a new Animal Center.

Please, please make every attempt to come to this meeting. I would
love to see the room just a full as it can possibly be with
supporters of this program.

If you have any questions, please e-mail (rayeager@charter.net) me.
If not, I hope to see you all on Thursday.

Thanks,

Rick.

Adam

2007-03-23T19:22:00.001-07:00

Adam
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Update received: Sat, 10 Mar 2007
Hello Momma Renee,

Adam here, I'm having a hard time getting my People in line. Seems that they have not had their house secure and protected in the past. I am wearing myself getting them Trained. I don't know what they did before I came along. Guarding them and my house can be exhausting work. I am loosing weight though. I still have to take them on walks each morning and evening, marking my way as I go. I think I may have to put them on Nutro Light though as I am. I know it would make them feel better they just seem to be so lazy at time. I take regular rides with Buren but John works all the time. I am going to have to get him to slow down though. I am taking them camping in North Georgia for 11 days in the last of may, I just need a break from all the work I have been having to do. Here are some pictures of me working hard !!

Hope to hear from you soon,
Adam

P.S. They said to say Hi TOO! :-)

Twiggy Update

2007-03-23T19:16:00.001-07:00

Update on Twiggy March 21, 2007:

Hi Renee....Ophelia is adorable, and I would take her in a minute if
I didn't already have too many dogs. I have just spoken to a friend,
who I directed to your site earlier. She actually saw Twiggy, and
would have taken her! I have forwarded her what I got off save-a-
pet. I hope it goes through. I tried to call April, whose number was
on the notice, but no answer. Tell her we might have a home for
Ophelia.

Twiggy is fabulous. She graduated from beginner obedience with
"excellent" in every category, and I will take her to agility, if
not this spring, then in the autumn. She sometimes gets a little
carried away when she is hunting, and still likes to chase the
horses, but otherwise she comes when she's called, loves
everybody,and everybody loves her. Best wishes, Ann

Chester

2007-03-02T18:02:00.001-08:00

Update received: Thu, 01 Mar 2007
Dear Renee,
I'm sure you remember Chester! Who could forget such and angel? I just wanted to give you an update and let you know what a gift he has been! We will always be grateful to you for saving him!! Chester has a new dad, I got married in October! They are best buddies!! Chester's new grandparents have 22 acres with a fenced in dog yard!! He loves to visit his many dog, cat and even horse buddies! His best dog friend is Charlie. Charlie is very timid around everyone but Ches ( Charlie is a rescued dog too!) They run around all over the house playing chase. We moved to Nashville last June. My husband is a musician and Ches loves to listen- I swear he's actually listening when Jordan plays! We still visit Knoxville quite a bit, but we love Nashville as well. Chester could not be a better dog. He is a huge part of our growing family! He makes everyone laugh! My sister in law's toddler loves to rest her head on Chester's soft back. We love him SO much!!! Thank you so much for our irreplacable Chester!! We hope you are doing well and commend all of the work that you do! Keep on truckin'!! ~ With lots of love, Taylor, Jordan and of course, CHESTER!

2007-02-23T17:13:00.001-08:00

If you have men who will exclude any of God's creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow men. ~St. Francis of Assisi

Twiggy (formerly Julie)

2007-02-23T16:51:00.000-08:00

Twiggy and Duffel at new home in Northern Massachusetts.

Updated photos of Twiggy (formerly Julie).

< Twiggy with new family.

Twiggy, Duffel (adopted from the Gulf Coast last year) and Delilah (adopted from memphis last October, also came up to Windham with Kyle) >

Maggie

2007-02-18T12:14:00.001-08:00

Maggie
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Update Received: Fri, 16 Feb 2007

Hey Renee!

These are not the best pics of maggie - but thought I would send them anyway! She is still doing great and is the best dog ever. She sits at the front door every single day 5 minutes before my neice and nephew's bus drop them off. Yes, she still sucks on her blankets and yes, she runs mom's house! :-)
~ Angie

Daisy

2007-02-12T15:29:00.001-08:00

Daisy
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Melanie adopted a little dog in these pics-she named Daisy-the end of January 2007. I helped her find this little dog out of a lady’s home in Greenville TN. Her name is Daisy. Her story-she was orginally obtained for a little boy cause he wanted a dog. She was chained up outside for the first 6 months of her life. Then he wanted a lizard, fish, cat, etc. The family said something has to go and because he never developed a relationship w/ this little dog, the little dog was destined for the pound. A neighbor across the street said she’d take her to rescue her but didn’t have a place to put her. This little gal stayed outside in a fenced in yard through all this cold weather we have been having. Melaine had been looking and praying for a little dog like this after her senior dog died. Everything was running amuck in finding one. I found out about this one through another rescue person in the Greenville area and Melaine went and got her. She is doing wonderful-gets along very well with her other little 3 legged yorkie and the cat. She’s sleeping in the bed with them, plays all day with her new little buddy, and is doing wonderfully with no housebreaking accidents. Melanie says you can tell she’s very grateful. She’s about a year and ½.

A picture is worth a . . .

2007-02-11T16:19:00.000-08:00

Freeeeeedommm!

You're home early!!

Another Maizie update

2007-02-11T16:12:00.000-08:00

Maizie Update: Friday, February 9, 2007:

...and with that smile she always has, I just can't be mad at her.

We went out for a walk this morning and she ran and ran and ran in the snow. Then her paws got filled up with snow and that was the end of that game. Mom had to take off her gloves and de-ice the puppies paws. The little ones I'll actually tuck into my jacket and carry them to the house, no way with Maizie "heavy butt"! ~ Laura

Maizie Update: Thursday, February 8, 2007:

...boy-she has come out of her shell-shows how happy she is. even though miscevious (Sp)!! i just can't see what is exciting about chewing up plastic (the remote). i had one chew up my blowdryer!

Your God Child has tried to eat a remote control, learned how to jump over baby gates and can sneak through the smallest space between the deck rails. She's not doing very will in obedience, I think she has ADD, but she does okay at home without the distractions.

I'm trying to teach her to sit when people approach her, she really likes to jump up, but when people see her smiling face their hearing turns off and they hug her when she tries to jump! Got to love her!! ~ Laura

Shop and support Friends Fur Life, Inc.

2007-02-11T15:54:00.000-08:00

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Cat's Pajamas

2007-02-09T17:56:00.001-08:00

the cat
Originally uploaded by timloco.

When God made the world, He chose to put animals in it, and decided to give each whatever it wanted. All the animals formed a long line before His throne, and the cat quietly went to the end of the line. To the elephant and the bear He gave strength, to the rabbit and the deer, swiftness; to the owl, the ability to see at night, to the birds and the butterflies, great beauty; to the fox, cunning; to the monkey, intelligence; to the dog, loyalty; to the lion, courage; to the otter, playfulness. And all these were things the animals begged of God. At last he came to the end of the line, and there sat the little cat, waiting patiently. "What will YOU have?" God asked the cat.
The cat shrugged modestly. "Oh, whatever scraps you have left over. I don't mind."
"But I'm God. I have everything left over."
"Then I'll have a little of everything, please."
And God gave a great shout of laughter at the cleverness of this small animal, and gave the cat everything she asked for, adding grace and elegance and, only for her, a gentle purr that would always attract humans and assure her a warm and comfortable home.
But he took away her false modesty. ~Lenore Fleischer Cat's Pajamas

Adam

2007-02-09T16:07:00.000-08:00

Update February 8, 2007: Adam is doing GREAT. . . . He is beginning to get his manly figure back and seems to be more alert and protective of his home turf. He is beginning to Strut His Stuff a lot more. He is ideal for our family. Now he ownes us all. :-) ~ Buren

ADAM went to his wonderful new home in Sevierville, TN on January 20, 2007! He's very happy with this large extended family and loves it! They have 14 grandkids between them and they are over at their grandparents home all the time! Adam is eating up the attention! He gets daily walks (and is slowly losing his weight) and he's getting lots of rides in the truck! Adam loves to ride-he loves to watch the birds and all the sights. He has a bed beside their bed and has settled in well. They say he's adjusting very well-great with the activity, great with all the attention and hasn't had any accidents in the house! Can't wait to see the new and improved (lighter) Adam in the days to come.

Maizie

2007-02-02T18:43:00.001-08:00

Maizie
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Update January 15, 2007
You should see Maizie in the snow and ice!! She bangs her front paws in the snow and tries to catch the pieces that fly up. What a goof ball. ~ Laura
***
Update: 12/20/06
Miss Maizie is settling in just wonderfully. She's already figured out she needs to go to the door and sit to be let out, she also has learned to sit on the deck so I can take her leash off and let her in. She doesn't have any interest in toys though. I'm not so sure she knows what to do with them just yet. ~ Laura

2007-02-02T18:37:00.001-08:00

I have been studying the traits and dispositions of the "lower animals" (so called) and contrasting them with the traits and dispositions of man. I find the result humiliating to me. ~Mark Twain, Letters from the Earth, 1907v

Please help with your signature!

2007-01-08T15:42:00.000-08:00

SIGN THE PETITION It only takes a minute!

Support Michael Herring, Richmond VA, Commonwealth Attorneys Office to Prosecute Dog Fighter

Remember dog fighters kill MANY innocent dogs to train ONE fighter!!! This is a window of opportunity to show support in requesting maximum sentencing allowed for this sort of human element. We do not have enough signatures! Please, please sign and pass this to the moon and back, I will have to fax this to Mr. Herring's Office first thing Monday and first thing Tuesday a.m. so that at least he can relay to the presiding judge that many people are watching and looking for stiffer sentences concerning this sort of offensive and disgusting activity. If you are in the Richmond area I would highly recommend that you attend if you are able to. Banning dogs is not going to solve any problem, getting the perpetrators that fight will slow down and hopefully eliminate this at some point.

I would like each and every one of you to remember the listings that are posted on dogs that have been used for bait, with missing ears, punctures all over their bodies and for those that have been so ruined by these people that they have to be killed because they are no longer adoptable. *I don't know if you remember Rufus on PBRC who had his entire face removed due to fighting*, it is because of people like this man that Rufus paid with his life and countless other dogs that are killed because they won't fight or are so damaged they must be euthanized once found by Animal Control. Dogs that are starved, made to run on treadmills for hours on end, isolated, chained, pumped full of steroids....having their teeth filed (bait dogs) so they can't fight back and are thrown in between two others to teach them how to fight, all the puppies and kittens that are used for bait, dying in the most horrendous way.
~ Sylva Penkov-Southwell

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/253475894

Animal Control in Blount County

2007-01-05T21:25:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have not heard, we no longer have animal control in Blount County. In May of last year, Maryville increased the fee that they were charging the county to provide those services by almost 100% and the county was not able to pay that cost. At that time, and at the commission's request, several animal related groups in the area began working on a proposal for the county to open and maintain its own animal center. However, when the new commissioners and County Mayor took office in the fall, they basically blew off the issue. To several, the solution was that county citizens should simply shoot any unwanted animals. When the contract with the city officially terminated on December 31, the Maryville Animal Shelter began refusing animals brought in to the shelter by county citizens and will not answer calls from the county.

If you have visited the Maryville Animal Shelter, you know that it is not acceptable. The animals are held with little heat, no air conditioning, little or no food or water, no vet care (regardless of the severity of their injuries - gun shots, broken backs, severed limbs), unsanitary conditions where the facilities are not properly cleaned to prevent diseases and no public outreach or attempt to adopt the animals. Animals that are picked up or turned in as strays are held for 72 hours. Those that are surrendered by their owners in hopes of finding a new home are subject to being euthanized immediately.

I learned in a meeting tonight with some of the commissioners that some time around 2000, the county had a general fund of approximately $8M. Now, that balance is down to $800,000. The commission reports that it simply does not have the funds to pay the city for the services. I believe they would be wasting their money if they did. If you have been watching the news lately, you have probably seen stories of concerned citizens that have been calling the commission office about the issue. Tonight, Channel 8 ran a story from a woman that was cornered by a vicious dog in her driveway. She got her mother in the car and ran inside with her baby and 4 year old.

I have recently formed a non-profit corporation for some influential citizens in the county that intend to raise money to build a facility. The proposal is that the county team up with this charity in a way similar to the Young-Williams Animal Center in Knox County, jointly providing funds for the building and operation of a county shelter. Three commissioners were at the meeting tonight, and voiced their concern that certain other commissioners would oppose spending any funds to provide for animal control.

I am writing to ask to you call your commissioner directly and talk to them about your feelings on this issue. The county's failure to provide animal control is not only inhumane, but it is a health and safety issue. Last year, approximately 6.5 animals came into the Maryville Animal Shelter from the county per day. Do the math. And, consider that this number will actually increase because those animals that remain running at large will reproduce. The lack of animal control will result in traffic issues, bite risk and disease. As the number of stray dogs increase, those dogs start to travel in packs. Not to mention that this situation gives a poor representation of our community and depicts us as a bunch of uneducated yokels. You can obtain the phone number for your commissioner at http://www.blounttn.org/commiss.asp#Commission.

If you live in the City of Maryville or the City of Alcoa, call your council representative and let them know that you are not satisfied with the current animal control conditions. From personal experience, the animal control officers in the City of Alcoa and their supervisors are very unhappy with the current operations. I personally hope that they sign on with a new Blount County shelter. Don't take my word for it. Visit the shelter on Home Avenue. ~ Kandi R. Yeager

Action Alert - please sign petition!

2007-01-02T15:23:00.000-08:00

This is about the little 10lb dog dragged behind the woman's car in campbell county. Even if you aren't in the East TN area, please still sign as we need support. I'm going to try to get information about the judge's phone number so we can call and let them know how we feel. The next court appearance is Febraury 20, 2007 (see recent article here).

***

Hi Friends,

I have just read and signed the petition: "URGENT! Please help Bobo, the dog dragged behind his owner's SUV."

Please take a moment to read about this animal cruelty issue, and join me in signing the petition. Without your support, it is possible that the presiding Campbell County judge will send this dog back to the owner who dragged him behind her SUV. It takes just 30 seconds, but can truly make a difference. Please sign here:

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/703063826

Thanks!
Margaret Lindop

Cross-post for rescue help

2007-01-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

City of East Ridge Animal Services
1015 Yale St.
East Ridge, TN 37412

Phone: 423-664-0271
Email: czagona01@comcast.net
Petfinder Address: http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/TN360.htm l
NEW OPERATING HOURS
Mon - Fri 10-5, Sat 10-2, Closed on Sundays

I was hoping that I could get some help in finding rescue for all our furry friends at the East Ridge Shelter in East Ridge, TN. I have a lady from CT named Kirby that has offered to pay the board on all four black labs. All the labs are going to Catoosa Vet Hospital tomorrow, they will all be spayed on the 8th of Jan due to Dr. Rogers schedule. Also Marjorie is taking Bonny the Basset, which I am taking to her tomorrow evening. Now that just leaves 25 furry friends that are in need of rescue help, some are under 30 lbs and several are large guys but all are highly adopt-able and deserve a chance at having their own forever home.

I have two employees at the shelter, Jen works the office and is suppose to be doing the rescues and Jonathan is the ACO. So it is hard for me to do any rescue work from the shelter during the day, so I do rescue at night when I get home.

We haven't had must luck with local rescues, so I have been using rescues from middle Tennessee. Mary Ruth Rogers has been a very big help with cross-posting and helping in any way she can. I have a gentleman that can do transport for me but he has MS and can only drive a short distance and can only handle small dogs.

I will work with any reputable rescue, we have no pull fee, but do require proof of alteration and rabies is provided. I can have the animals vetted here and provide a health certificate but we do not get a discount on the vetting, just the spay/neuter & rabies.

I keep petfinder updated everyday, and I make sure that Jen does also.

We haven't euthanized an healthy adopt-able animal for space since April or May, and we have only euthanized 6 adopt-able animals in a year . That is the reason we are covered up, people that live outside of East Ridge are trying to surrender their animals to us instead of the local Humane Society which is contracted for their area. Now people are having friends that live in East Ridge turn in the animals for them, or they are just turning them out in our city limits. Our city is about 10-12 sq miles, so you would think that since reopening in Dec of 05 that we would have caught all the stray animals in such a small city.

Any help in pulling would really help us, we just need space, I have 4 dogs outside that I need to get inside because of the cold weather. The dogs in the inside can go in or out, and at night I can close the door to lock them inside when its cold, but I can't do that right now because of several kennels having more than one dog in it.

My officer has been instructed not to impound any animal if he can return the animal to the owners home, but the animal must be able to be confined to the property or it has to be impounded.

We try very hard not to take in animals, when someone wants to surrender their animal we will provide rescue contacts and other options, but we still end up with the animal because the owner doesn't have the time to call the contacts and they think its our responsibility to find their animal a good home.

We do accept donations towards an animals adoption fee, we call these donations our Guardian Angel program. A Guardian Angel animal adoption is non-refund-able, all funds are used towards the spay/neuter and rabies and can not be re funded back to the shelter after services have been rendered by the vet. All donations for the Guardian Angel fund can be sent via PayPal to zagona@bellsouth.net. A donation receipt will be sent for any monetary donation received. These monies are paid to the vet by ERAS.

We have our volunteer releases available at the shelter, and would love to find at least 3 to 5 teams that could take animals out to Petsmart on the weekends, I would like to have 3 to 5 teams so they could rotate every other weekend. I would like several volunteers to transport adopted animals to the vet for alteration. We would be happy to have someone come to the shelter and take pictures for petfinder, we do this ourselves but on busy days the animal may not post until the next day.

Foster homes are very important for the shelter, we have several animals in foster care, to become a foster family you must have a fenced yard, and vet references. As a foster family you will continue to help place the fostered animal into an adoptive home. Any possible adoption must be handled at the shelter with the adopter and ERAS staff. Foster families are responsible for vet care, and general care while in foster care. ERAS will make sure that the fostered animal is current on all vaccines.

The shelter could also use blankets, but not electric please, hard rubber toys like KONGS that are easily Dis-infected. Monetary donations for placing weekly newspaper adds & flyers.

I would also like you to know that no animals are scheduled to be euthanized, please pass this on. I am the only one that can make that call. All animals that have "URGENT" beside their name are the animals that have been at the shelter the longest and they are the ones that need rescue help, but all need rescue help.

I just wanted to clear this up, if anyone needs to know anything just email me or call the shelter and leave a message and I will return the call.

Any questions can be forwarded to czagona01@comcast.net

Carl Zagona
East Ridge Animal Control Supervisor
1015 Yale St.
East Ridge, TN 37412
423-664-0271 shelter
www.petfinder.com/shelters/TN360.html
ACAT Board Member

Happy New Year ~

2006-12-31T19:32:00.001-08:00

Chinatown NYC 2006 Year of the Dog
Originally uploaded by sayheypatrick.

to you and all fur babies!

Another Maggie

2006-12-31T19:06:00.000-08:00

*This is a different Maggie than the one in recent posts below. This Maggie is a cattle dog mix.*
***
Update Received: Sun, 31 Dec 2006

Hey, Renee. Just wanted to say "Thanks" once again for helping me adopt Maggie. She is a sweet, funny, smart dog. She learns very fast and adapts well. (She's like Tylo in the regard that I can't understand why no one would want her). You should have seen her with her Christmas present. She opened it herself. I was surprised to see that she knew exactly what to do with it. (I'll email some pictures as soon as my aunt sends them to me.)

Except for having to have minor anal gland surgery, she's been doing great (she's fully recovered from the surgery and not having any more problems). She and Zack get along great and pretty much do everything together. In fact, he wouldn't let her out of his sight after her surgery. (I don't know how dogs know when something is wrong, but they do).

Also, she's got a superb natural protective instinct. While eating at my sister's one night, Maggie laid down in front of my month-old nephew's crib and watched every one that came into the room. When he would cry out, she would come get me and "mumble" until one of us got up and checked on him. She's very gentle with him, too. She moves slowly around him, and doesn't jump up when I'm holding him. Again, like Tylo, she's just an all-around great dog. Thanks, Charle

Belated Holiday Greeting

2006-12-30T17:24:00.001-08:00

IMG_6255
Originally uploaded by Nova Scotia SPCA.

Hope your holidays were enjoyable for all of your family!

Maggie Update

2006-12-30T16:38:00.001-08:00

Maggie Update
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Update received: Sat, 30 Dec 2006
***
Hey Renee!
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas! Thought you would like to see a few pictures of Maggie! She is still doing great and enjoying life with mom. :-) We think she may be half kangaroo - because she jumps so high when she is excited! :-)

Another Charlie Update

2006-12-30T16:35:00.001-08:00

Charlie Update
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Charlie was adopted on 11/14/2006.
***
Renee’
Just wanted to say hello and hope you had a great Christmas. I know we did with the addition to Charlie in our lives. We have had so much enjoyment with him here and he has adjusted so well to us. He had a great Christmas, bones, treaties, new blanket and a visit to Grandma’s house in VA (who fell in love with him instantly). My Mom has about a ½ acre fenced in back yard and he got to explore till he dropped. He had goodies under the tree left from Santa and Grandma. He loves to “GO” and rides on one of ours laps on his pillow covered with his blankie so he can see out. He doesn’t miss anything that moves. He is so funny! He continues to have walks daily averaging 45 mins to 1 hour and loves the outdoors. Larry has been working with him and he has stopped barking at people when they walk by the car. He will sit, stay, shake paws and lay down. He is a great little dog. We couldn’t love him any more than we do but we try. We want to thank you again for our little angel. He has brought so much happiness to our lives. We hope the New Year will bring you much happiness and success with your organization. Thanks again. - Barbara

Bobby

2006-12-26T20:23:00.001-08:00

Bobby
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

This is an update from October 24, 2006:
Bobby belonged to a young man living in Madisonville. He was living with his girlfriend in a trailer. The landlord found out about their having a dog and told them to get rid on him. he approached me and asked if i could help. i took in this little guy and contacted border collie rescue of east tn. He's a border collie mix. They were gracious enough to take him in. They named him Bobby. Bobby has adopted to a wonderful home in the Nashville area where he is adored by his family. They have three daughters that dote over him and love him to death. What a blessed little guy!

Julie a.k.a Twiggy

2006-12-26T20:16:00.000-08:00

Update 12/22/06: Hi Renee...Just an update on Julie, who we have renamed Twiggy, after the seventies supermodel who was skinny, blonde, and wore mascara.
She is very sweet, and everybody loves her, though Lulu, the old Ridgeback, grumbles a bit. (She did that when the others came, too, and that won't last long.) She has fit right in, and loves to go for long walks on the farm. She is never tempted to run off, though I wonder if she has some hound in her, as she always has her nose to the ground. We start obedience school on Jan 9.
I have to take Lulu to the vet today about her ear, which is still not right, and will take Twiggy, too, to have the spay incision checked. There is still one staple in it, and though it looks clean and not swollen, it has still not completely closed. She continues on the antibiotics.
There was another lady in Windham picking up a dog from you, and she gave me a little bag of treats. It is quite a scene when the transport comes in. Lots of happy people and happy dogs. All the best for Christmas and the New Year, and thanks for everything. - Ann

Charlie

2006-12-26T20:11:00.001-08:00

Charlie
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Update received November 27, 2006:
Charlie had a large Thanksgiving. He got to meet lots of the family and everyone loves him (of course) He also help Larry doing some grilling outside since it was so nice. He is really settling in. We couldn't love him anymore than we do. He is the best. Thanks again Renee, for bringing this Angel into our lives. We are truly blessed with his presence in our life. Here are more pictures of him. Doesn't he look happy? Thanks again!!! - Barbara

Gracie

2006-12-26T20:03:00.001-08:00

Gracie
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Updated photo received December 26, 2006

Gracie (previously called Lane) was adopted out around March of 2005.

Maizie

2006-12-26T20:01:00.001-08:00

Maizie
Originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Update: 12/20/06

Miss Maizie is settling in just wonderfully. She's already figured out she needs to go to the door and sit to be let out, she also has learned to sit on the deck so I can take her leash off and let her in. She doesn't have any interest in toys though. I'm not so sure she knows what to do with them just yet. - Laura
***
Update: Tue, 26 Dec 2006

Renee,

You would be so proud of Miss Maizie, she was the star of the holiday gathering yesterday. She was calm, polite, friendly, just a joy to be around. I have some new pictures I'll get loaded this week and send to you.

We went to the vets Friday and there she also made a huge hit. Although she did crawl over the reception desk to get to me, onto the chair, desk and over the counter into my arms. She was very graceful doing this. Sandy took her around and introduced her to everyone, just like a big sister is supposed to do. The vet sat on the floor with us and Maizie pranced up to her and sat in her lap while she was examined. What a love bug.

She has only chased the cat twice, the second time she got the water bottle sprayed at her butt and that was enough. She now scurries by the cat with her tail between her legs :)

Her and Sandy have buddied up, although they still haven't figured out the play thing just yet, and they hang together in the house.

I think I'll get her into obedience 1 in January and see how well she does. She might beat her brother to CGC. Hope you are feeling better and the holidays were good to you. Talk to you soon
Laura

Jake Update

2006-12-17T18:04:00.000-08:00

I received an update on Jake!

***

Hi Renee and Robyn,

Jake and I are doing great. He loves going for our walks (5 km, or about 3 of your miles) we do this about 4 to 5 times a week other wise we just do a 1 mile walk the other times. He has been doing better in the bathroom department and hasn't had any accidents for the past 4 days.

He does not like his crate at all. I think he must have been put in one when he was bad with his former owners. I tried for quite a while and I was finally able to get him in it, but he whimpered the whole time. He finally stopped whimpering after many tries with the door open, then we tried it with the door closed and the whimpering started again when with me there. Finally many, many tries later, he stopped the whimpering. Then after another 2 dozen tries, I tried leaving the room, again the whimpering started. The last time I left the house to get the mail and when I came back he was out of the crate and waiting for me upstairs. He had taken only the back top clip and somehow bent it completely backwards and squeezed his way out of that tiny hole. He also ripped his bedding to shreds that was in the crate. He was still wagging his tail though after I saw it. I decided that I wouldn't mention it to him, but I have kept the crate with the door open, just in case he decides it might be a safe haven for him at a future date, instead of a punishment room.

But a good thing is that any time that I have had to leave him in the house on his own, he has done nothing to the rest of the house. I just make sure I close all the doors. He knows when I come home, because he hears the garage door open or the chimes when I unlock the door and Jake is always there to greet me with his tail wagging.

I have gotten him a red halter harness and a red running leash that I can put around my waist. This way when he pulls me I have my whole weight behind me to counteract against his strength and not pull my arm out of the socket. He knows that when I get this leash out that we are going on one of our long walks and he gets so excited that he literally bounces/jumps off the floor a good 2-3 feet. I will sign us up for obedience classes in the New Year so I can learn how to deal with this so we can run together safely. I haven't been able to run much lately, unless I'm on my own, but then I feel guilty that he is not with me because of this; but the 5 km walk is still good. But we will get there together in the running; I am sure of this.

I had my 6 year old niece over last week-end. They got along great; she thinks Jake is like her own little pony and rode him like one with me holding her up. He was good about it and with her, Jake never pushed her or jumped on her, I was very proud of him. Her mom, my sister was scared to death when she saw the size of Jake, and very relieved when she came to pick her up and how she wanted a dog just like Jake. My sister is a cat person, so was somewhat relieved I hadn't made her daughter afraid of coming to my place anymore, as I always try to take her children at least every 6 weeks for a week-end so that her and her hubby can have some alone time.

I have had to do very little re-arranging of my house at all with Jake here. I have lots of glass vases and flowers that sit on my floor, but he has not gone near any of them. Time will tell I guess. Even his tail has not knocked anything down, yet. Jake is almost joined to my hip, wherever I go in the house, he follows me, upstairs or downstairs. If I get up, 90% of the time he gets up and follows me. I rearranged my office and he will now come in and stay with me for awhile, before retiring to my downstairs leather love seat. I have given up on trying to make him sleep on the floor by my bed because he would always wait about 2 hours and then just jump up and stay there the rest of the night. Did you know he snores like a trooper; I'm not sure who snores louder me or him.

We have had only one snow fall here about 10 cm, and he wasn't quite sure what to do when we went out for a walk, but like a trooper after a few delicate steps just walked in it. That snow fall is gone now. We will see how he does when it gets really cold and lots of snow is down. But I'm sure he will be fine. I have introduced to my surrounding neighbours and they are quite pleased with Jake and his demeanor.

Renee I can't say thank-you enough for letting me be the one to adopt Jake. Jake has brought such a balance to my life since I got him. Being single, I was becoming a total work-alcoholic and now I have a reason to come home instead of working till all hours of the night at client offices, since my separation.

May you both have a great Christmas, if I don't get a chance to email to you before then. My son, Derek, is coming home form Calgary for Christmas and he can't wait to meet Jake also. So Jake and I are going to the airport to pickup this evening.

Cheers!

Sandra

Jake's Transport North

2006-12-03T19:50:00.000-08:00

Jake's Transport North, originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

These are pictures of Jake overnighting in Northern, Mass. while he's transporting to his new home in Nova Scotia.

Here are the pictures I took while Jake was here for his overnight. He is such a gentle giant and quite the lovebug. He is going to make a wonderful companion. He followed me around everywhere I went and greeted me at the door when I came in from my porch. I can say he is an easy one to fall in love with and so intelligent. He was an absolute pleasure to have here.

Bonnie and Clyde

2006-11-27T16:05:00.000-08:00

Bonnie and Clyde, along with 2 other dogs, were pulled out of the Loudon shelter during Oct. The first two went on to a rescue called Liliac Grove Farms in New Hamp and were adopted out through them within a week. These two were too sick to be adopted out. They had coccidia. I spent a lot of money getting them nursed back to health. I called border collie rescue and they agreed to take them. Bonnie (the one that is more border collie adopted out November 17, 2006). Clyde the aussie shep/border collie is in the process of adopting out now!

***
Why should man expect his prayer for mercy to be heard by What is above him when he shows no mercy to what is under him? ~Pierre Troubetzkoy

Our Petfinder webpage

2006-10-02T19:31:00.000-07:00

Hey all! Yea!! Friendsfurlife finally has it's own petfinder
site!! I'm still loading dogs / cats from our website and from the
arfnet site so it's not even been up a week. We've had over 300 hits
in less than a week! The website address is:
http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/TN413.html

Ode to the Cat

2006-09-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

"Beware of people who dislike cats." - Irish proverb

Amazing Facts about Cats

Additional Cat Facts and Trivia

Be responsible: SPAY / NEUTER your pets. A pair of breeding cats, which can have two or more litters per year, can exponentially produce 420,000 offspring over a seven-year period, And the overpopulation problem carries a hefty price tag. Statewide, more than $50 million (largely from taxes) is spent by animal control agencies and shelters for cat-related expenses.

"Of all God's creatures, there is only one that cannot be made slave of the leash. That one is the cat. If man could be crossed with the cat it would improve the man, but it would deteriorate the cat." - Mark Twain

Brittany

2006-09-13T14:39:00.000-07:00

Brittany, originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Brittany adopted out to a wonderful family through Friends Fur Life Inc. Brittany has such a cute personality. Her new family live near Lexington, KY. I've stayed in touch with them all this time. She adopted out around August of 2005. I pulled her and her litter mates from a kill animal shelter in June of 2005.

Leash training tip

2006-08-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

If your dogs pull when on a leash, you need to get a Gentle Leader Easy Walk Harness! These are incredible!

Overview:
Unlike traditional dog harnesses, the Easy Walk is a front leash attachment harness. This provides a more accurate cue for your dog in terms of direction. Unlike a collar, the Premier Easy Walk Harness never causes coughing, gagging, or choking because the chest strap rests low across the breastbone, not on the delicate tracheal area.

Why it works:
Traditional harnesses can actually encourage dogs to pull harder because of the "opposition reflex". That's the reflex that makes sled dogs do what they do. The Easy Walk Harness redirects the pressure through the front leash attachment. And, the patent pending martingale closure tightens slightly across the chest and shoulder blades when your dog attempts to pull forward.

Petsmart recommends and uses this kind of harness in their puppy / dog obedience classes.

***

Pup Life sells this harness for $16.89 and Petsmart sells the very same harness for $29.99.

Low Cost Spay/Neuter

2006-08-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

AnimalWorks is a non-profit low-cost spay/neuter clinic located in Alcoa, just outside of Knoxville, TN. We have spayed and neutered over 5000 dogs and cats since September 2001! Please call us at 865-379-2227 if you are interested in making an appointment to have your pet spayed or neutered, vaccinated, need flea/tick preventatives or heartworm medications.

Fix-A-Pet Spay/Neuter Clinic
The low cost spay/neuter facility of the Tennessee Valley Humane Society. 10421 Chapman Hwy., Seymour, TN 865-579-6738

Goose update 8-17-06

2006-08-19T07:47:00.000-07:00

Goose has been perfect. He and Jester, the cat, are now playing together. The cat will get him to chase him then turn and tackle him. It still sort of startles Goose, but he's been watching how Jester tackles Maverick, the boxer, and realizes that no one is getting hurt and it's actually kind of fun. Every day Goose and Maverick run around the yard three or four times until complete exhaustion sets in. The Aussie and Boxer combination has been wonderful and they are perfect playmates for each other.

Maggie (formerly Anna)

2006-08-15T17:59:00.000-07:00

More of Maggie, originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Update: Thu, 22 Jun 2006 20:38:21 -0400
Renee -

Here are the first set of pictures from tonight. Anna was a little "bouncy" while we were driving - but calmed down after about 10 minutes. She did GREAT in the pet store and also when we got to mom's she did great. We let her run around the house and sniff each room and gave her food and water. She did not care anything about the cats - but the cats are very confused with her. :) Mom is keeping them seperated for a few days. We made Anna a bed in the kitchen and gave her food (yes, your kind of food) and water. :)
Diane and I got the parts of the fence that concerned us taken care of and all is great. She spent about an hour and a half outside with everyone and then we left mom and Anna (maybe aka maggie) to be alone together.
We will take her with us tomorrow to the mountains (with her new collar and leash. :)

I did forget to ask - is she house broken??
She did potty several times outside and mom has some papers laying in the kitchen floor???
We will be there first thing in the morning - so is there is a mess - we can get it cleaned up.

The next set of pictures will make you smile.
***
Update: June 24, 2006 12:55:46 PM EDT

Renee -
She really did adjust very well for her very first few hours. When Diane and I left with all the kids - she was making some noise like we were forgetting her?? :) I think her time alone with mom tonight will be good for them to bond.
Mom is so excited!!!
She has a new purple collar and a pink retractable leash. :-)

How is this for staying in touch re: the dog??

You will be sick of me S O O N!!! I promise!! :-)

Thanks again!!!!
***
Update: Fri, 23 Jun 2006 16:39:00 -0400

Hey Renee!

What a great dog anna (maggie) is!!! :-)

She had a great day in Townsend. She did great in the van on the way up.
When we got to the camp area - she was sniffing all around and wagging her tail non-stop. Then we went down to the water and everyone laughed when she walked right into the water!!! TOO CUTE!
My dogs RUN from all water!!!!
My brother is awesome inthat he had mapped out a place he could drive mom right to the waters edge and then she could sit in the wheel chair and enjoy everyone at the water. It was perfect!!! SHe thinks the lawn chairs are too hard to get out of.
I think Anna is wondering who "maggie" is -- but we all think she will know it is HER soon! :-)
She would play and explore and then she would go back to mom - wag her tail and then go and explore again. It was very cute!
The kids had her leash mostly - - and they let her lead the way all day.
Mom is at home now and I will go check on her in about 3 hours. They should have more good bonding time tonight and then have a very low key weekend.

Mom said last night she did cry throughout the night and that at some point in the night she climbed on the kitchen table - grabbed a package of treats my sister bought for the dog and managed to open the package and eat half of the treats! OOPS!!!
I think total she had about 4 small bone type treats during the late night hours!!! We now know to store all snacks and food - in a tight container!!!
Mom said she got up early and let maggie out at 6:00 a.m. and that maggie ran all over the yard -- said it was really funny and cute and said she came right in after being out for a few minutes to potty!!!

Anyway - - I think this is going to be a perfect fit with this dog and mom!!! Maggie does not seem nervous at all!!!! She seems like a very healthy and happy dog!!!
***
Update: Fri, 7 Jul 2006 18:38:50 -0400
hey renee!!
just an update that things are going great.
maggie is a very funny dog. she will get in mom's back yard and run and run and run!!! She will even fetch a ball for me. mom is training her to COME when called and maggie is responding pretty well -- of course -- she get treats when she does COME!!! :-)
maggie is digging in the yard - but not at the fence. mom is okay with this.
this is the only picture this week. my battery has been acting up on me.
hope you are doing okay!!
Angie

Nutmeg

2006-08-15T17:36:00.000-07:00

Lucy and Nutmeg hiding from storm, originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Another photo of Nutmet hiding from a thunderstorm.

Lucy and Nutmeg hiding from storm

2006-08-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

Lucy and Nutmeg hiding from storm, originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Both of these dogs were adopted from me - each a year apart. Nutmeg is the brown one and Lucy is black.
**
Update July 10, 2006
Hi Renee,
I've been thinking alot about you and all your hard work, I really want
to help but we don't have much extra money now that we have two dogs to takecare of but i think I've figured out a way to help. I'm running ahalf-marathon at the end of October in Michigan that I want to take pledges for. I think if I start now and contact family, friends and co-workers I should be able to raise a good amount. I'm really excited about this and hope that it helps.
I've attached some pics of lucy and nutmeg hiding in the closet during a thunder storm, they're so funny. Nutmeg has been doing really well, she knows how to sit and stay, we're still working on heel. She was scared to go outside for a couple days after the fireworks, but she's better now. We had friends from home visit last week and she would not leave my side because she was so scared of them. I think she's afraid of men because she was fine when my mom came to visit. It also took her a little while to warm up to brian. other than her being afraid of some people she's wonderful, such a fast learner. Her and Lucy have a great time together.

Talk to you soon,
Jeni

New Web Address

2006-08-11T14:27:00.000-07:00

We are working on our new website at: http://friendsfurlifetn.org/. Be sure to check it out in a few days!

Goose photo

2006-08-05T22:45:00.000-07:00

Goose Update 8-4-06, originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

This is an updated photo of Goose (who used to be named Shaggy).

Goose Update 8-4-06

2006-08-05T22:22:00.000-07:00

I received another update on Goose!

***

Renee,

Goose's heartworm treatment rest period ended two weeks ago, so we've
had a chance to really see how he is doing with a chance for full
exercise with walks, running and playing with Maverick. He is doing
just great and is a full member of the family. No more mistakes with
marking in the house. I used some enzyme spray everywhere, so that
really seemed to help. He'll let us know with a quiet whisper of
walking back and forth near the door if he needs to go.

He and Maverick are best friends and take turns chasing each other
all around the yard at full speed. Goose is more agile than Maverick
and takes great delight in dodging a bush, tree or us at the last
minute causing Maverick to crash into the aforesaid object or
person. I’m worried they're going to give Heather's mom reason for
ACL repair. I've attached a couple of videos to show them in
motion. Videos wouldn't go, so I've attached the most recent picture.
Her Royal Highness Heather and the Knights of the Pet Table
Anyway, Goose is just the perfect dog. We're finishing off
beginning training at PetsMart and he is the star of the class. The
farm is the absolutely perfect place for him. They get at least one
or two, mile long walks each day along with lots of chase time with
each other. He's becoming much more confident and comfortable each
day. Playing a little rougher with Mav, which Mav loves and needs.
But, they both have respect for time outs for drinking and #1 or #2.
It's really quite funny watching them suddenly call time out and then
resume play. Also, they do stop when I call time. They stay in the
back of the house with us and will run in the front yard if they are
with us, but stay out of the road and run on the lawn. Heather's mom
walks them both together each morning and we usually do the evening
walk and run time. They both went with us to Nashville last weekend
and Goose was great in the car. He gets his heartworm checked again
in October to make sure he's 100% clear. He's on monthly HeartGuard
now. Hopefully, no more shots.

We think Goose sees Jester the cat as just another small dog. He's
very gentle with him and they lick noses and Jester no longer moves
for them to come inside or pass. The dog just learn to step over the
big kitty "dog". Jester does try to play with Goose, but Goose is
still learning to pick up on his cues, like darting back and forth
through the house in an effort to get Goose to chase him. Jester's
other favorite is suddenly rolling over on his back in the "I'm
vulnerable to attack" position. This works with Maverick, and Goose
is being to notice the association based upon Maverick's example.
Hopefully, we'll have Goose/Jester wrestling videos soon.

Goose and Maverick takes turns through the night on our bed with us,
or just both pile in to create the perfect puppy pile with us in the
bed. Thank goodness Goose is lighter weight and we don't really
notice if he's laying on top of one of us. Once or twice a week all
three are on the bed sometime during the night. It's very cute to
wake up and see the three pets in a pile of fur at our feet.

Thank you again for helping bring such a special pet into our lives.
We are absolutely blessed with the perfect set of animals to enrich
our lives and share our days and nights with.

All our best,

Heather and John

Alyse

2006-07-31T21:16:00.000-07:00

Alyse found a new home on 4/2/2006! This is an update from her new
home:

She is doing great. Just a big baby. We can't sit down without her
jumping on our laps. She sleeps with me at night. I sleep on my side
and she jumps up on my side and lays down. She is gaining a little
weight and is heavy. If I roll over she jumps over to the other side
and up on me again. She is very playful. We gave her toys and she
runs through the house chasing them all the time. Haven't had her
declawed yet but I am next month. She has destroyed my TV with her
claws, even with the scratching post in front of it. The biting has
stopped, except for this morning. We had just got up and she wanted
me to pet her first, which I did, then when I started to the kitchen
she was under my feet and I kept having to stop and walk around her,
she bite my foot. I scolded her. She knew what she had done. She is a
sweet, sweet cat. We love her to pieces. It's okay to post the
pictures. Thanks again for her. Couldn't have gotten a better cat.

Linda

Alyse

2006-07-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

Alyse, originally uploaded by friendsfurlifeinc.

Alyse found a new home on 4/2/2006! This is an update:

She is doing great. Just a big baby. We can't sit down without her jumping on our laps. She sleeps with me at night. I sleep on my side and she jumps up on my side and lays down. She is gaining a little weight and is heavy. If I roll over she jumps over to the other side and up on me again. She is very playful. We gave her toys and she runs through the house chasing them all the time. Haven't had her declawed yet but I am next month. She has destroyed my TV with her claws, even with the scratching post in front of it. The biting has stopped, except for this morning. We had just got up and she wanted me to pet her first, which I did, then when I started to the kitchen she was under my feet and I kept having to stop and walk around her, she bite my foot. I scolded her. She knew what she had done. She is a sweet, sweet cat. We love her to pieces. It's okay to post the pictures. Thanks again for her. Couldn't have gotten a better cat.

Linda

Shaggy Update

2006-07-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

I received these 2 updates on June 3 & 5, 2006 about Shaggy (now Goose):

Renee,
The vet had heard of you through the Friends Fur Life program. Had heard really wonderful things per his direct words. I think it was Michael Butler, although there are five vets in the Indian Ridge practice and it seems like we get a different one almost each time. We've met 3 of the 5 so far.

Goose had a great time last night. Slept in our room along with Maverick and Jester the entire night. Never left the bed and Mav did as he usually does getting up and down from the bed to his doggie bed on the floor. All three of the pets ended up in the bed next to each other for most of the night. It was very adorable. We are working on Maverick to remember to come if we call him when he is playing with Goose. He's trying to forget that because he is so focused on Goose and we're not going to allow it. I worked with them this morning for about 30 minutes and would interrupt their play with a come command. Goose came better than Maverick, but by the end both were stopping and coming to me immediately. That'll be the training program for the week. They are both doing real well playing together in the yard and staying in our back area. Goose is finally calm around the cattle and he's doing great with Jester. They are stopping to sniff each time they pass each other and no more hissing from Jester. Jester still isn't 100% ready for playtime, but we noticed him swiping at Goose with his paw from the bar stool last night every time Goose would come close to Jester. That's how Jester initiates play with Maverick. Very funny how they model behaviors for each other. Some of the training sites I reviewed are as follows:

www.paw-rescue.org/PAW/PETTIPS/DogTip_Introducing.html
www.thepetcenter.com/gen/scent.html
www.highlonesomeranch.com/IntroducingNewDogs.htm

The last one was the best and most comprehensive.

Will take some pictures and send them soon. Maverick and Goose have been laying on top of each other with me on the couch as I've been typing this. How cute!! Just a pile of puppies. Mav definitely feels a need to dominate, but we're keeping it in check so there is no out of control play of fights. Going great so far. The fun of watching the two of them play chase is perfect and exactly what we were hoping for. Goose has been a great addition. None of the puppy issues to deal with. He is fully crate trained. He only makes a slight taping noise by moving his paws up and down in the crate and a couple of times a tiny whimper if he really had to go to the bathroom. Still hasn't barked yet. He is becoming more comfortable with his surroundings and everything and relaxing more. For the first couple of days we couldn't get him to stop panting and he would rarely lie down. Now he his breathing normally and lays down most of the time in the house. Still very into both Heather and me. But, will follow Maverick and Goose around to see what they are up to. I hate to take him to the vet for the heartworm treatment with things going so well, but the vet really wants it done with the injection and I agree we need to get it out of the way. So, we'll send some picture updates and I'll let you know how he does after we pick him up. Thank you again for rescuing such a wonderful dog and helping bring him into our lives.

All our best,
Heather, John, Maverick and Jester

***

Renee,
Well, we are approaching the end of a very busy and good first day for Goose. We've done some name juggling and have decided to rename the cat Jester and allow Shaggy to get the name Goose. A better fit for Maverick's playmate.

Goose and I had a very quiet ride home and we went straight to Petsmart to get a crate, some toys, Greenies in his size and another grooming comb after talking to the groomers there. He also got signed up for Beginners Training starting June 16, 2006 for 8 weeks. He seems to like the Bill-Jac liver treats best so far. He also liked the Greenie and it got his teeth really clean. He also got a full bath, flea dip and comb out and blow dry as well as nail clip and coat conditioner at Petsmart. He looked so cute in the UT orange bandana they put him in and he smells great. They found mostly dead fleas from the Frontline treatment, but I noticed he was chewing a bit on the lower hind legs, which is typical. His coat is so thick they can live in there a long time. Then we went to lunch together and visited while at Sonic. He finally drank from a cup of water I got there for him. I did notice that he really balked at going into Petsmart initially. I think all the dog smells at the front door signaled dog pound to him. He finally got over his hesitation and went in and relaxed after 15 minutes. The groomers loved him and he was very affectionate with them they said. He saw me and came right to me when I picked him up so I knew we had bonded and I was in the inner circle of trust.

After Sonic it was off to the vet's at Indian Ridge for a check up and visit to discuss the heartworm treatments. The vet said he looks great and he felt pretty sure he was 2 years old at most judging by his teeth and mouth. Agreed that it's Aussie and most likely Belgian Turveren. Doubted German Sheppard because of the small size. He was totally calm and a gentlemen at the vet's with some really annoying Miniature Schnauzer's. No sound or aggression or fear at all. Just calm and neutral. What we've decided to do is treat him for heartworm this next week starting on Thursday and Friday and the vet wants to keep him over the weekend as well to observe him and restrict activity. He wanted to let Goose have a few days at home to calm down and relax before the stress of treatment. He really wants to do the shots and get the worms out of his system so there is less risk of transference to Maverick. Given that we are going to be doing just initial adjustment and orientation we can restrict his activity adequately for the four weeks that the vet has requested. They knew of you very positively at Indian Ridge. Thought you'd like to know.

Then we came home and started getting settled in to the house and checking things out. Maverick was crated out of sight in the living room and Jester (formerly Goose) our cat was put up behind closed doors in one of the bedrooms. We spent a long time just sitting in the kitchen. Then he finally started coming into other rooms with me with some gentle coaxing on lead. We rested on the bed and he was adorable. Then it was walk outside time and also some crate time so Maverick could come out and check out the smells of the new dog in his house. Also, Jester came out to check out the scent trail as well. Then Maverick and I ran some errands and had some outside play time and then we swapped again. This time I let Jester roam around and he checked Goose out from the doorway to the bedroom while Goose was lying calmly on the bed. Goose looked, but showed no aggression or desire to chase. I just kept petting him and the cat even came up to me near the edge of the bed then left the room satisfied with his initial view of Goose.

Heather came home and we left with Maverick for dinner with her parents and then came back and took both dogs for a walk down the country lane a couple of times for about a mile walk. We let the dogs meet on the road and kept them apart so there was no jumping and they dig great on the walk. Goose finally went #1. I was worried he was dehydrated. We came back and all sat down for a pack meal and Goose finally ate something and drank more water. Still no #2, but we're hoping tomorrow morning after breakfast will be the trick. Maverick and Goose ate great together on opposite and slightly out of sight (around a corner) with me between them and a pet gate as backup. Jester sat on the floor with all of us and Heather stayed next to Maverick and I sat between both Mav and Goose letting them kiss my checks between bites of food. No direct stares were allowed between them and they respected this well with some gentle insistence on my part. Especially to Mav who is so curious. Goose is just happy being around so far.

Goose is absolutely silent in his crate and goes in better than Maverick, who usually will try to blend into the bedspread and be small to avoid us noticing that he is out of his crate. We're hoping the weather let's us get to a fenced in park tomorrow for some heavy exercise and a potential meeting again on neutral turf for some playtime and ball chasing. Two balls for each dog so there are no fights. I'll send you another update soon, but we're off to a very good start so far.

Hugs,
Heather and John Kunysz