LAWS Animal Rescue

Puppy Mills, Don't Be Fooled!

2011-04-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

Don't Be Fooled: ALL Pet-Store Puppies Come From Puppy Mills!

"Prisoners of Greed" is a video that depicts the torment suffered by dogs at puppy mills throughout the country. Click on the link below to be directed to the "Prisoners of Greed" video.

http://www.hua.org/movie.html

Future Animal Sanctuary!

2011-04-12T11:02:00.001-07:00

Be Kind to Animals rescue is embarking on a venture to open an animal sanctuary within the next two years. We are currently accepting tax deductible donations to reach our goal. The sanctuary will be home to dogs and cats in need of temporary housing until adoption, elder care, and hospice care. Thank you for your help! Access our site below:

http://www.bekindtoanimalsrescue.com/

Aide4animals

2011-03-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Aide4animals is a newly formed rescue working towards helping medically needy dogs in shelters, who are often not adopted due to costly medical issues. Aide4animals is here to help. Please donate to help our cause. Thank you all.

http://aide4animals.rescuegroups.org/

The Animal Rescue Site Store

2011-01-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

Please consider purchasing items from the Animal Rescue Site store. Each click gives food:

http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/viewecard.faces?siteId=3&ecardId=3027622&recipient=rompinrotma@bellsouth.net&link=ctg_ars_viewecard_from_ecardemail

Aide4Animals

2010-12-30T19:24:00.000-08:00

Please donate to this worthy cause. Aide4Animals is helping medically needy dogs get out of shelters and become adoptable dogs. We need support to keep going.

http://aide4animals.rescuegroups.org/

Happy Ending - Farah's Adoption

2010-10-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

Many of you may remember Farrah, the terrified Chow/Lab mix that came to OCAS on March 10. One day while volunteering at the shelter I met a woman named Marla who asked if we could help this dog. Farrah was cowered in the corner scared to death. Marla's heart went out to Farrah but she couldn't adopt her, so Will and I decided to work with her a bit to see if we could help. Eventually I asked ARF Shack Rescue if I could foster Farrah to see if it was possible to rehabilitate her to some extent, but we were all unsure of her future. She was petrified of EVERYONE, terrified to walk on a leash, afraid of cars, people, noises, leashes, almost anything. She would cower when you came near and flinched when you tried to pet her.

When I first got Farrah home I noticed an intense curiosity toward the other dogs. By the next day I decided to introduce her to the other dogs in my home in the hopes that it would help her confidence. She immediately developed a friendship with my largest dog, Abby, the Newfoundland. I heard that fearful dogs can be helped by other dogs to learn friendship, trust, companionship, and just how to be a dog. Over time, Farrah realized I was also a friend. I fed her, talked to her, pet her, and showed her kindness and love. Eventually she understood. And one day someone asked if he and his wife could adopt Farrah. We were excited for her and hoped this was a good home where her fears would be minimal.

The day before Farrah's big meet and greet with the adopters she was running and playing and feeling so happy. She plopped her paws in my lap and looked up at me. We looked directly at each other and I then asked her "are you ready to go?". At that moment we realized it was time. I took a deep breath, built up my strength to be able to let her go, even though she was so close to my heart and I would miss her dearly.

On September 6, 2010 Farrah went to her forever home with Bill and Cyndi in Palm Bay. They are a gentle loving couple who have a wonderful sweet dog for Farrah to play with and be a companion too, which is Farrah's best quality. There is no doubt in my mind that Farrah found the perfect home. Bill and Cyndi are experienced with fearful dogs and due to their calm demeanor, Farrah was not frightened, just cautious, like a "normal" dog would be.

Kudos to EVERYONE, Marla, Will, shelter staff, Janet, ARF Shack Rescue, and all the people who even considered adopting and extending your heart to an "underdog". Her chances of adoption at the shelter were next to none due to her extreme fears. I could go on and on about how wonderful this dog is, her incredible gentleness and the kind heart I found inside her. Every dog in my home new this about Farrah. She was very special. This is a testament to the realization that every dog is special and sometimes you just have to look for it inside them. They are inherently sentient beings with lives of their own and deserve a chance to live and be happy; each and every dog born to this world. We can't save them all, but we changed the world for this one dog and I can only imagine what this means to her.

Linda Rock
OCAS Senior Volunteer and Rescue Volunteer

Foster Mom Poem

2010-10-08T21:42:00.000-07:00

To My Foster Mom

There I sat, alone and afraid,
You got a call and came right to my aid.
You bundled me up with blankets and love.
And, when I needed it most, you gave me a hug.
I learned that the world was not all that scary and cold.
That sometimes there is someone to have and to hold.
You taught me what love is, you helped me to mend.
You loved me and healed me and became my first friend.
And just when I thought you'd done all you do,
There came along not one new lesson, but two.
First you said, "Sweetheart, you're ready to go.
I've done all I can, and you've learned all I know."
Then you bundled me up with a blanket and kiss.
Along came a new family, they even have kids!
They took me to their home, forever to stay.
At first I thought you sent me away.
Then that second lesson became perfectly clear.
No matter how far, you will always be near.
And so, Foster Mom, you know I've moved on.
I have a new home, with toys and a lawn.
But I'll never forget what I learned that first day.
You never really give your fosters away.
You gave me these thoughts to remember you by.
We may never meet again, and now I know why.
You'll remember I lived with you for a time.
I may not be yours, but you'll always be mine.
- Author Unknown

Missouri Puppy Mills

2010-09-10T19:21:00.000-07:00

Stop Puppy Mills in Missouri

https://secure.humanesociety.org/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage&cmd=display&page=ActionAlertTakenPage&id=4661

Faith, Hope, Charity

2010-08-20T19:50:00.000-07:00

God Bless you Faith, Hope & Charity!

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=144360&id=100001222719525&ref=notif¬if_t=photo_reply

Faith,Hope,Charity.jpg

My name is Charity. My life began about 6 months ago. I was one of a litter of several and knew nothing of the world or the people in it. I knew my mother and warmth and hunger.

I knew one day something was wrong when I was ripped from my mother with two of my sisters. We were hurt in ways we did not understand and could not make sense of what was wanted or expected of us. You see, we were born American Pit Bull Terriers and those who may not understand; we are a very loyal breed.

We want only to please those who feed and care for us. Ideally, we would be nurtured and our sharp instincts used for wonderful things, like rescuing small children who have wandered away from a campground, or tunneling through debris at a World Trade Center when bad men do horrid things.But I was born into a world that does not understand us. The most decorated Army dog ever was my kind, and now... well... now they want to kill us all I understand. I am not so sure what it is that makes people hate us so. But, basically, we will do what it is we are trained to do. If we are with a kind person, and we learn kindness from an early age, we can be the best friends ever.

I was never aggressive. I never harmed anyone or anything... and neither did my two sisters, Faith and Hope. But because of what we are, bad people like to take us and make us do bad things. And those bad people make a lot of other humans hate us for what we are trained to do. But that is another story, sort of... though that story is the reason why things happened to us as they did. Our birth was brought about by one of those bad people with bad intentions. And the more people hate us, the more those bad people want us and the worse they treat us. And it is ok because we are just “Pit Bulls””. They do not seem to understand that we feel pain, we feel when someone hates us, and we do not want to be hurt. So ... that is the world we were born into, but we did not understand all of that then. We just understood we had been ripped from our mother; we could not eat because we had no teeth; and, worse ... the man who bred us had a teenage son that was doing really bad things to us. I later learned that it was called sexual molestation, sodomy, or bestiality. I just knew that it hurt and I could hear my sisters crying when he would hurt them. Faith was so small and I tried really hard to protect her. I cannot tell you how many times this happened, though it could not have been many or we would not have lived. But it was enough to hurt us. One day the boy was seen hurting us and his father saw what was happening too. He rushed us to this place called the County Animal Shelter. I think we were supposed to be killed there and no one would ever question what happened, because most “Pits” that go into a place like that do not come out alive. But this was a good place with people who did care. The man told them the big dog down the road had “gotten to us.” I guess they figured that is how we got all those bite marks all over our bodies where the other dogs were allowed to hurt us. But they noticed there that we were very, very still, huddled together ... and we would not eat. I was very worried about my sisters. And they seemed to look to me.

Then this woman and man came and got us and took us to a place called The Eagle’s Den. After that, things changed. They call it rescue, and I am glad we were rescued. I wish all of my kind could be, because it gives us a chance. But... anyway... we saw a vet and he sort of guessed at what had happened to us. But the man was not punished, nor his son. All I know is there is something called an investigation into all those bad people and they really want to catch them all. They should. And I hope one day there will be some justice for me and my sisters. But the people will have to work that out because well... we are just dogs. And our story has not ended. Well, mine has, at least there where it hurt every time I went to the bathroom, but where life was so good I did not let on that I was hurting. You see, one day I just felt funny and then I went to sleep. I can remember wet tears on my face as the man and woman held me and I knew they were going to try and save me again. But I was just so tired. After having been in pain for so long, and knowing my sisters were, I just went to sleep and came to a place called Rainbow Bridge. It is very nice here. I have a lot of friends here. There are all kinds of dogs and many of my kind, many that were hurt like I was, and killed. And I can watch over Faith and Hope here.

They have had surgery now to help them. After I came here everyone knew we were not alright. we were scared pups because of all we went through. All we really wanted was a friend and to play and be happy. I am rooting for Faith and Hope now and I watch over them from here. They had the surgery they needed to fix the pain. They may not understand the pain they are in right now, but it will get better now. There are a lot of people upset because of what happened to us. And I am very glad they are upset. If I could tell them anything that would help: make it stop; but not just this man. Make it all stop. Get the people who make laws to write some that will protect us. What happened to us is against the law. That is a fact. But there are no federal laws to help us, and they get away with it time and again. Anyone who wants to see how often this happens, just type the word Canine sexual molestation into your computers and look. But you only see the cases that get reported. And not much happens in those cases. Even when they kill us, not much happens. So if you want to help, if you want it to stop ... there is only one way. Make it illegal all over the United States. Make uniform laws so that all animal abuse carries mandatory sentences. Other countries protect their companion animals. If you guys who have prayed so hard and whose love I feel so strongly want to help ... make it stop. Make them hear you. They have never heard us. Faith’s surgery went really well, even though she was the sickest. Hope had hers today and she is doing ok now. Ironically, Hope may have already been here at Rainbow Bridge, but some of the abuse actually saved her. When they did her surgery, they found a piece of metal in her intestines, surrounded by flesh. It was blocking a tear. They had to cut off a lot more of her intestines than they did Faith’s, but she will be ok now ... I HOPE. That piece of metal stopped poison from spilling into her body at least, even though it did damage, it helped her to stay alive long enough to get the surgery to save her life. I am watching, and I am hoping this will make people wake up and realize what goes on with us when we are bred for all the wrong reasons.

I hope people will stop punishing our breed for what these people do and realize what we go through. I wish they all could be rescued. I wish there was no reason to rescue. There is one more thing I have seen since I came to Rainbow Bridge. All of you are very caring and good people. My sisters were able to have their surgery because people cared enough to help them live. They have a long way to go, but thank you for helping them.I’ll be watching... and one day I will see all of you here at the Bridge; because I am everyone’s dog who had a part in saving my sisters.

Thank You.

CHARITY

If you would like to contribute to help cover the cost of the surgery and aftercare... it would be greatly appreciated and no amount is too small. We appreciate all of your help and support:

http://eaglesdenrescue1.chipin.com/in-me

mory-of-charity

If you would like to help us care for the animals at Eagle's Den, all donations are appreciated, tax deductable and 100% goes to the care of the animals.

Thank You, and thank you for your kind thoughts and prayers.
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cm

d=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=CF7XNPKP9QF

WE

Vet:
Southeastern Veternary Hospital (Donation can be made in general or In Memory of Charity)

910-739-9411

To My Foster Mom

2010-08-19T12:45:00.001-07:00

To My Foster Mom

There I sat, alone and afraid,
You got a call and came right to my aid.
You bundled me up with blankets and love.
And, when I needed it most, you gave me a hug.
I learned that the world was not all that scary and cold.
That sometimes there is someone to have and to hold.
You taught me what love is, you helped me to mend.
You loved me and healed me and became my first friend.
And just when I thought you'd done all you do,
There came along not one new lesson, but two.
First you said, "Sweetheart, you're ready to go.
I've done all I can, and you've learned all I know."
Then you bundled me up with a blanket and kiss.
Along came a new family, they even have kids!
They took me to their home, forever to stay.
At first I thought you sent me away.
Then that second lesson became perfectly clear.
No matter how far, you will always be near.
And so, Foster Mom, you know I've moved on.
I have a new home, with toys and a lawn.
But I'll never forget what I learned that first day.
You never really give your fosters away.
You gave me these thoughts to remember you by.
We may never meet again, and now I know why.
You'll remember I lived with you for a time.
I may not be yours, but you'll always be mine.

- Author Unknown

WELCOME TO MY WORLD "THE PAIN & HEARTACHE OF RESCUE"

2010-08-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

Heros and Angels BE A HERO.MOV

2010-07-02T07:52:00.000-07:00

Punish the deed, NOT THE BREED

2010-06-26T20:23:00.001-07:00

Spay and Neuter

2010-05-14T21:57:00.000-07:00

Pet overpopulation causes needless pain and suffering. Homeless animals are forced to live in fear and scrounge for food and water, do not receive medical care, and almost always lead short, difficult lives. Our shelters are inundated with too many animals to place in homes, and our euthanasia rates are higher than any of us can imagine or tolerate. One of the solutions to this problem is spay and neuter all pets.

PLEASE SPAY AND NEUTER AND PLEASE DO NOT ADD TO THE HOMELESS POPULATION BY BREEDING YOUR DOGS AND CATS.

PLEASE!

Animal Abuse and Domestic Violence

2010-05-13T19:49:00.000-07:00

Tragically, 50% of domestic violence victims delay seeking help for fear that an abuser will harm a pet...

Animals are the silent victims of domestic violence. Most people treat pets as members of the family. Unfortunately, when it comes to domestic violence, pets are also deemed part of the family unit and forced to suffer in silence at the hands of abusers. Some studies estimate that:

* 50% of domestic violence victims delay seeking help out of concern that their pet may be harmed by the abuser.

* 88% of companion animals living in households where domestic violence occurs are routinely threatened, harmed or even killed.

The ASPCA witnesses firsthand the connection between animal abuse and domestic violence. Just last month, police in Little Falls, NY, arrested Mark Beacraft, Jr., for assaulting a four-year-old child. The suspect has a history of violence—including a guilty plea in 2007 for murdering a neighborhood cat. He was sentenced to one year in a county jail but was later released under house arrest.

Animal Suffering

2010-05-09T19:25:00.000-07:00

Think occasionally of the suffering of which you spare yourself the sight.

~Albert Schweitzer

Treatment of Animals

2010-05-09T19:24:00.000-07:00

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

~Mahatma Gandhi

All living creatures - Hippocrates

2010-05-09T19:23:00.001-07:00

The soul is the same in all living creatures, although the body of each is different.

~Hippocrates

Animals in Captivity - Jacques Cousteau

2010-05-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

“There is about as much educational benefit to be gained in studying dolphins in captivity as there would be studying mankind by only observing prisoners held in solitary confinement”

– Jacques Cousteau

Cruelty Customs

2010-05-09T19:13:00.001-07:00

"The thinking [person] must oppose all cruel customs no matter how deeply rooted in tradition and surrounded by a halo. When we have a choice, we must avoid bringing torment and injury into the life of another..."

- Albert Schweitzer

Animal Cruelty

2010-05-09T19:06:00.000-07:00

We must fight against the spirit of unconscious cruelty with which we treat the animals. Animals suffer as much as we do… Until we extend our circle of compassion to all living things, humanity will not find peace.

~Albert Schweitzer, The Philosophy of Civilization

Animal Cruelty Information

2010-05-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

Animal Cruelty Information

So Many Shelter Dogs

2010-05-07T21:20:00.000-07:00

Shelters are FILLED with Pit Bulls. They are not crazy dogs ready to attack. They are not mean dogs ready to fight other dogs. That's what many people think. And what are people doing? Breeding and selling thousands, upon thousands of these dogs. Why? For money. And thousands upon thousands are ending up in shelters and ultimately euthanized because people are afraid of them, or are not allowed to own them, and because it's impossible to find enough homes for them. I have walked through the kennels of a shelter now for almost a year, interacting with these Pits, looking into the eyes of hundreds of these so-called dangerous attack dogs, and I have found them to be loving, kind, extraordinary dogs that are NO DIFFERENT from any other loving, family pet. Look at their faces. Do you see a mean dangerous dog in these photos? All of these dogs were euthanized for no other reason than no home.

Animal Euthanization

2010-05-04T20:05:00.000-07:00

The ASPCA and New York City’s animals reached a major milestone in 2009, when the city’s euthanasia rates dropped to 33 percent, down from a staggering 74 percent in 2002. But our work is far from over. The sad reality is 3 out of every 5 animals who enter animal shelters will be euthanized, the tragic victims of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

www.aspca.org

We know there are no “quick fixes.” We do know, however, that working together to reduce the unnecessary euthanasia of animals does work. None of this progress is possible without your steadfast support and commitment. Please consider making a gift to the ASPCA, in doing so, you will join us as we strive for a country where no healthy animal is euthanized simply because she lacks a home.

DOG NITRO'S STORY

2010-05-02T14:13:00.001-07:00

NITRO - A Brave Rottie's Fight for Nitro's LAW - Off to the Senate
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Sunday, December 6, 2009 at 10:11pm

♥ Nitro ♥
UPDATE 3/31: We have listed at the bottom Ohio Senators FB addresses we need to deluge FB style. That means comments being left requesting them to support Nitro's Law. A very polite "Please support Nitro's Law - Ohio's dogs are depending on us." We must keep up the pressure of this media campaign to ensure Nitro's Law is passed through the Ohio Senate. Contacts at the bottom.

♥ Nitro ♥
UPDATE 2/25: Nitro, his kennel mates, and every animal who has fallen victim to man's heinous hands thanks us on this day. However, this battle is only half won, and we cannot afford to quit now when we have come this far. Nitro and his kennel mates need us to follow through. They're depending on us.

The Ohio House passed an animal cruelty bill "Nitro's Law" today that makes it a felony crime to torture, torment, beat, poison or commit any act of cruelty against a cat or dog. House Bill 70 was approved by a vote of 59 to 36, of the 36 "nays" all of them were republican. It requires Senate approval before it becomes law. The legislation was prompted by abuses reported in kennels "High Caliber K9" but the new restrictions and penalties also apply to pet owners’ homes and property.

We still have the senate to get this through for it to be enacted into law, please note at the bottom are 33 Ohio Senators that we must appeal to in making sure they finish enacting this into law. We must send our warmest and sincerest regards to Representative Ron Gerberry (D) of District 59 of the Ohio House. All of our efforts would not have been possible without this man's support, and it's thanks to him that Nitro, Gillie, York, Havoc, Flynn, Quolla, Ben, Hannah, Jetta, Princess, Bo, Peanut, Sierra, ..and the nameless have been HEARD. Please take a moment to include a comment of thank you for Representative Gerberry's support to district59@ohr.state.oh.us; or include it here and we will pass it on.

We are so amazed and grateful for the tremendous support these dogs have received thus far, please let's finish what we started for them.

Actual House Vote 59-36 Live:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0BG1QswGjw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsUZ4lDCw34
____________________________________________________________

*Warning - Graphic pictures*
Some of you that have not been following please note this is another case of horrendous proportions in criminal animal cruelty and neglect. These dogs were starved to death in their kennels in a boarding & training facility owned and operated by Steve Croley. Owners paid fortunes to High Caliber K9 for training & boarding their canine family members, only to end up having them starved to death.

This was High Caliber K9 training facility, which portrayed a clean, well-kept K9 facility where
a family was assured their much-prized Rottweiler named "Nitro" would receive only the best in specialized K9 training.

Nitro was a highly intelligent dog, and excelled in mental and agility training and his owners were always seeking ways in which to improve his unusual abilities. He loved to 'work' and his family, Tom and Elizabeth Raab were first introduced to a professional K9 training approach through their breeders, where both of their Rotties, also siblings, Nitro and Bella, came from.

Everyone understood Nitro's above-average intelligence and in perfecting his special abilities they thought they had found a valuable resource in Steve Croley, owner of High Caliber K9, whom they had met and worked with 2.5 years prior. A friendship and trusting bond soon developed between them with Croley's training and interaction with Nitro during these 2.5 years. It proved to be a very effective and rewarding relationship for Nitro and the family as well. They had many successful interactions, and many numerous social gatherings with Croley, including his wife in dinners, social engagements, outings, forming a deep friendship and trusting alliance.

When a critical medical emergency and crisis of an elder family member left them in a difficult predicament, requiring them to be commuting to NJ frequently for unknown periods of time, this was putting a strain on their companion pets in their home. Nitro being the powerful and highly protective breed of dog that he was, to leave him for prolonged periods of time in the care of unknown family members was highly stressful for him, as well as potentially irresponsible.

So, at a difficult and chaotic time and considering their friendship, it seemed second nature to trust Croley with Nitro. Nitro had attended several 2-week boarding and training trips at the facility. When Croley offered a summer training program as a convenient means for Nitro to do what he loved doing best, and to keep him safe, easing his family's concern, it seemed the best and safest solution.

Croley often made remarks that he felt as if Nitro were 'one of his own' and always seemed to direct extra attention to him, and Nitro relished the attention and seemed to openly adore and thrive under Croley's tutelage. This only reinforced any reservation the family might have possibly had, for Nitro was very reserved, and very protective and not inclined to trust easily.

It was an 8-hour drive for Nitro's family to High Caliber but Mr. Croley lived on his training facility property and the family had visited it on so many occasions that they were always assured of the dogs safety and comfort. The dogs always seemed to be his top priority and the center of his life.

Considering their past successful relationship and continued trust and friendship, they were convinced their intelligent Nitro was in the best of possible care, where he would excel to his fullest potential.

Their beautiful, once healthy Nitro and how he looked when they took him out of his body-bag and before he was cremated.

Their beloved Nitro before he entered High Caliber K9 to be starved, left and forgotten to die with his 6 other kennel friends. Nitro was one of 19 companion animals who suffered unspeakable torture at the hands of their abuser.

This is Nitro and how the authorities found him - locked up with no water, no food, nothing, laying in his own feces. Mr. Croley closed the door off so he couldn't get inside, so he was forced to stay outside day and night. Nitro's mom said, "I know my boy and the reason he is towards the the back like this was because he was trying to get out of the sunlight, he was very smart and so healthy, he was 105 lbs when he went to Mr. Croley's facility. When authorities found him he weighed 50 lbs with no muscle left, the authorities thought he was a Doberman."

This is Gillie when she was a puppy. She was a very loved girl and only 1 years old when starved to death at Mr. Croley's facility.

This is Gillie after entering High Caliber K9 - only 1-year- old. This is how she was found with overturned bowls, searching for food, water, anything.

A little living puppy (a new boarder taken in for puppy training) placed by Steve Croley next to a dead Border collie.

This dog was dead the longest, a female Doberman, just left there, curled in a fetal position with empty food bowls, her eyes were gone, and her bones were showing through the skin.

A dead GSD locked inside with no way out, no food, no water, nothing, just trapped in this tiny space.

This was York - he was found barely alive but supposedly so aggressive that the Mahoning County Animal Control officers euthanized him via/heart stick through the fence. They shot at him with what looked like a dart gun through the fence until they hit his heart, similar to target practice on a dart board. This is also how they administer euthanasia via/heart stick to dogs in their cages and kennels at various county funded animal control facilities throughout the United States. This is one of Youngstown Animal Control's method of euthanasia, the other is the gas chamber.

Ohio continues to rank at the bottom on animal protection legislation. The degradation of our Nation as a whole by the state of Ohio continues into the 21st century and only through legislation that allows for prosecution of animal cruelty with stronger penalties imposed on those found guilty, will Ohio be a just and compassionate State.
______________________________________________________________

Sentencing Hearing January 22, 2009. The plea agreement hearing, Steve Croley with his attorney's as pictured above. The defendant had no statement for the judge.

YOUNGSTOWN — The healthy barks of a police dog served as a backdrop for the sentencing of a kennel operator who allowed dogs to starve to death at High Caliber K-9.

Steve Croley, 38, after appearing 40 minutes late to municipal court Thursday, was sentenced to four months in jail on four counts of animal cruelty. Below Judge Robert A. Douglas Jr.’s third-floor courtroom, the barks of Detective Sgt. Frank Rutherford’s dog rose from the police parking lot as Croley and his lawyer stood in front of the judge. Rutherford was in municipal court on another matter, and the dog waited for him in their cruiser.

In addition to jail, Judge Douglas, who said he found it hard “to understand what happened, why it happened,” ordered that Croley pay restitution of $1,796 and serve three years’ probation, during which time he is not allowed to own or harbor any animal. He was also fined $1,000 and has six months to pay the fine and restitution.

Croley received credit for the 13 days he spent in jail until he posted bail. He will report to the Mahoning County jail at 6 p.m. Friday.

On Oct. 22, seven dead and 12 starving dogs were found at High Caliber K-9, 1516 Coitsville-Hubbard Road. Croley was arrested that day.

He reached a plea agreement in December and pleaded no contest to the animal-cruelty charges. Two housing violations related to the condition of the High Caliber K-9 property were dismissed.

Croley’s lawyer, Heidi Hanni, told the judge that her client is very sorry and remorseful, noting he lost his business. She said he made poor decisions, adding he had been in the process of a divorce.

For the “terrible atrocities with these animals” she said he is “very, very sorry.” Croley made no statement to the judge.

High Caliber K-9 Training Facility located in Youngstown, Ohio. The facility has since re-opened and is in operation by another company and supposedly not affiliated with Steve Croley.

We thank you so much for your support in our mission to change the laws so that these above dogs and Nitro did not die in vain. The Raabs appreciate all the continued support and efforts on affecting this much-needed change for animal welfare in the state of Ohio.
__________________________________________________________
Ohio Senators - Please send correspondence encouraging them to carry through enacting this law. Please click on Senator photos to enlarge and obtain a clearer view of individual contact information. You can also find their address information by clicking the below link.

http://www.ohiosenate.gov/directory.html

http://www.facebook.com/senatorshannonjones
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=86277751769
District 6: Jon Husted http://www.facebook.com/OhioRepublicans
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=37795017764
District 14: Tom Niehaus website: http://www.tomniehaus.com/ (no fb)
District 18: Tim Grendell http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tim-Grendell/50674801418
District 24: Tom Patton - website: http://pattonforsenate.com/ (no fb)
District 28: http://votetomsawyer.com/ (no fb)

_________________________________________________________
Memories~

The Nitro family suffers every minute of every day and will undoubtedly for the rest of their lives for what happened to their beloved Nitro. In Nitro's name a legacy is born and a far greater purpose in his tragic death is achieved. The passing of this bill into law honors Nitro and his other kennel mates in that their suffering and deaths were not in vain. Ohio is on the road to becoming a just and compassionate state for animal welfare, as it should be.

__________________________________________________________
To learn more about Nitro Foundation please visit: http://www.nitrofoundation.com

Please note, I am just the messenger in this extraordinary effort, and though the Raab's are dear friends, Nitro was not my dog, that honor belongs only to the Raab's. I was born and raised in this town where this took place, and it touched me deeply. I will continue my efforts to assist the Raab's and the animals of Ohio in passing Nitro's Law so that Nitro, Gillie, York, Havoc, Flynn, Quolla, Ben, Hannah, Jetta, Princess, Bo, Peanut, Sierra...and all of the nameless did not die in vain....for as long as it takes.
Copyright 2010/Shelley Bright

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This email message and any attachments are for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain proprietary, confidential, trade secret or privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited and may be a violation of law. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering this message to an intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy all copies of the original message.

Pit Bull Dog Fears and Facts

2010-05-01T18:37:00.001-07:00

FEAR Pit Bulls have "locking jaws".

FACT We found that American Pit Bull Terriers did not have any unique mechanism that would allow these dogs to lock their jaws.

FEAR Pit Bulls have massive biting power measuring in 1,000s of pounds of pressure.

FACT On average dogs bite with 320 lbs. of pressure. The bite pressure of a German Shepherd, Pit Bull and Rottweiler were tested. The Pit Bull Terrier had the least amount of bite pressure.

FEAR Pit Bulls attack without warning.

FACT Pit Bulls signal the same as other dogs.

FEAR Pit Bulls are ticking time bombs that turn on their owners.

FACT Attacks by family dogs of any breed or type are extremely rare. Resident dogs maintained outside on chains, kennels or yards or used for guarding, fighting, protection, or irresponsible breeding can exhibit more aggressive behavior than family dogs. THERE IS NO DOCUMENTED CASE OF A PIT BULL MAINTAINED AS A HOUSEHOLD PET, WHO HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN A FATALITY IN THE UNITED STATES.

FEAR While there are some Pit Bulls with good temperaments they are the exception not the rule.

FACT The American Temperament Test Society shows Pit Bulls consistently score above the average for all breeds tested, year in and year out.

www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com

Dog Thrown!

2010-04-30T19:11:00.000-07:00

This sweet soul was thrown out of a car window. Now in rescue.

WSPA - Cruelty and Neglect of Bears

2010-04-29T20:29:00.000-07:00

https://www.wspa-usa.org/pages/3063_banner_ad_lp_bear_baiting.cfm

Rawhide Rescue In New Jersey - youtube story

2010-04-29T19:36:00.000-07:00

Until Every Cage Is Empty

2010-04-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

As animal rights activists and advocates, the words and concept of Regan's animal rights manifesto, is like the air we breath, the thoughts, words that fill our soul and color our spirit, and propel all action we take!
Until Every Cage is Empty!

The other animals humans eat, use in science, hunt, trap, and exploit in a variety of ways, have a life of their own that is of importance to them apart from their utility to us. They are not only in the world, they are aware of it. What happens to them matters to them. Each has a life that fares better or worse for the one whose life it is.

That life includes a variety of biological, individual, and social needs. The satisfaction of these needs is a source of pleasure, their frustration or abuse, a source of pain. In these fundamental ways, the nonhuman animals in labs and on farms, for example, are the same as human beings. And so it is that the ethics of our dealings with them, and with one another, must acknowledge the same fundamental moral principles.

At its deepest level, human ethics is based on the independent value of the individual: The moral worth of any one human being is not to be measured by how useful that person is in advancing the interest of other human beings. To treat human beings in ways that do not honor their independent value is to violate that most basic of human rights: the right of each person to be treated with respect.

The philosophy of animal rights demands only that logic be respected. For any argument that plausibly explains the independent value of human beings implies that other animals have this same value, and have it equally. And any argument that plausibly explains the right of humans to be treated with respect, also implies that these other animals have this same right, and have it equally, too.

It is true, therefore, that women do not exist to serve men, blacks to serve whites, the poor to serve the rich, or the weak to serve the strong. The philosophy of animal rights not only accepts these truths, it insists upon and justifies them.

But this philosophy goes further. By insisting upon and justifying the independent value and rights of other animals, it gives scientifically informed and morally impartial reasons for denying that these animals exist to serve us.

Once this truth is acknowledged, it is easy to understand why the philosophy of animal rights is uncompromising in its response to each and every injustice other animals are made to suffer.

It is not larger, cleaner cages that justice demands in the case of animals used in science, for example, but empty cages: not "traditional" animal agriculture, but a complete end to all commerce in the flesh of dead animals; not "more humane" hunting and trapping, but the total eradication of these barbarous practices.

For when an injustice is absolute, one must oppose it absolutely. It was not "reformed" slavery that justice demanded, not "reformed" child labor, not "reformed" subjugation of women. In each of these cases, abolition was the only moral answer. Merely to reform injustice is to prolong injustice.

The philosophy of animal rights demands this same answer—abolition—in response to the unjust exploitation of other animals. It is not the details of unjust exploitation that must be changed. It is the unjust exploitation itself that must be ended, whether on the farm, in the lab, or among the wild, for example. The philosophy of animal rights asks for nothing more, but neither will it be satisfied with anything less."
- Tom Regan

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This email message and any attachments are for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain proprietary, confidential, trade secret or privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited and may be a violation of law. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering this message to an intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy all copies of the original message.

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Shelter Song

2010-04-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReODo7FD9Uo

Rescued Dog

2010-04-16T18:11:00.001-07:00

RESCUED DOG
>
> Once I was a lonely dog,
> Just looking for a home.
> I had no place to go,
> No one to call my own.
> I wandered up and down the street,
> In rain in heat and snow.
> I ate what ever I could find,
> I was always on the go.
>
> My skin would itch, my feet were sore,
> My body ached with pain.
> And no one stopped to give a pat
> Or a gently say my name.
> I never saw a loving glance,
> I was always on the run.
> For people thought that hurting me
> Was really lots of fun.
>
> And then one day I heard a voice
> So gentle, kind and sweet,
> And arms so soft reached down to me
> And took me off my feet.
> “No one again will hurt you”
> Was whispered in my ear.
> “You’ll have a home to call your own
> Where you will know no fear.”
>
> “You will be dry, you will be warm,
> You’ll have enough to eat”
> “And rest assured that when you sleep,
> Your dreams will all be sweet.”
> I was afraid I must admit,
> I’ve lived so long in fear.
> I can’t remember when I let
> A human come so near.
>
> And as she tended to my wounds
> And bathed and brushed my fur
> She told me bout the Rescue Group
> And what it meant to her.
> She said, “We are a circle,
> A line that never ends.”
> “And in the center there is YOU
> Protected by new friends.”
>
> “And all around you are
> The ones that check the pounds,
> And those that share their home
> After you’ve been found.”
> “And all the other folk
> Are searching near and far.
> To find the perfect home for you,
> Where you can be a star.”
>
> She said, “There is a family,
> That’s waiting patiently,
> And pretty soon we’ll find them,
> Just you wait and see.”
> “And then they’ll join our circle
> They’ll help to make it grow,
> So there’ll be room for more like you,
> Who have no place to go.”
>
> I waited very patiently,
> The days they came and went.
> Today’s the day I thought,
> My family will be sent.
> Then just when I began to think
> It wasn’t meant to be,
> There were people standing there
> Just gazing down at me.
>
> I knew them in a heartbeat,
> I could tell they felt it too.
> They said, “We have been waiting
> For a special dog like you.”
> Now every night I say a prayer
> To all the gods that be.
> “Thank you for the life I live
> And all you’ve given me.
>
> But most of all protect the dogs
> In the pound and on the street.
> And send a Rescue Person
> To lift them off their feet”
>
> --
> Jan Nickerson
> Gulf Coast Sheltie & Collie Rescue, Inc
> www.petfinder.com/shelters/FL384.html

Puppy Mills - written by a teenager

2010-03-18T20:44:00.000-07:00

Puppy Mills are one of the worst forms of animal cruelty in our world. It is a large-scale commercial dog breeding operation where dogs and other animals are sold to make a profit under very unsanitary and crowded conditions. Unlike responsible breeders, these people treat their animals with no care and it is extremely unhealthy for the animals that live there. Considering there is an outrageous amount of dogs being bred in puppy mills, they are partially responsible for the overpopulation of dogs in this country. There are about four to six million new sheltered animals every single year. Because not all of them will be able to find a home, half of these animals are euthanized.
Typically, when a puppy turns the age five to eight weeks old, they will be sold to a broker. A broker, or middleman, will buy the puppies from commercial kennels and sell them to any retail outlet that will take their product. The only way someone can become a broker or middleman, they have to be licensed by the USDA. The USDA licenses more than 4,500 animal dealers, most of them breeding cats and dogs. This makes it much easier and more convenient to make a profit off all these dogs. Usually, the animal will travel to the pet store after they are sold either by air or truck in hot or cold and uncomfortable conditions. The lineage records of the puppy mill dog are normally falsified. More often, the puppy with the falsified record is usually because the puppy does not meet the requirements to be sold to a pet store legally. If the puppy becomes sick or is born with any kind of physical condition, they are often killed considering pet stores and most others will not want to buy it. When something like this happens, operators get rid of the sick or hurt animal in the most cheapest and convenient way possible. Only a responsible breeder will want to meet you before selling anybody one of their “prize pups”, making sure that they will go to a great home. However, the mother and father of that cute puppy you will see in the pet store’s window are unlikely to survive and are living horrible lives.
Puppy Mills were first introduced to the public after WWll. Many farmers felt it very difficult to make a living after WWll ended and found selling chickens and cows do not make a bigger profit then selling puppies. The U.S. department of agriculture began breeding purebred puppies as a “fool proof cash crop”. Sadly, only an estimated ¼ of dogs are purebred in shelters do due inbreeding in Puppy Mills. Brokers set up seminars to teach farmers how to operate breeding facilities. Thirty years later in Lancaster County, PA made the highest amount of Puppy Mills in any county in the entire nation. Pennsylvania earned their infamous nickname as the “Puppy Mill Capital of the East”. Today Missouri is considered the Puppy Mill state in the country. Puppy Mills then began to spread the most in Pennsylvania and then throughout the rest of the country. Because the USDA has been severely criticized for the lack of aggression against animal abuse and neglecting to take care of all these Puppy Mills, millions of letters were sent from many pet lovers out there. Pennsylvania’s legislators eventually passed the H.B 2525 in 2008. This provides all the basic laws that are appropriate enough for a Puppy Mill. It bans wire flooring and the stacking of cages, plus dogs must have free access to outdoor exercise two times the size of the primary enclosure, and vet exams for all dogs once a year. Since then, Pennsylvania’s Puppy Mills have been much better at taking care of their animals.

A Puppy Mill is not exactly some place anybody would want to live in. Some facilities are completely filled with trash, piles of animal waste, tiny coops filled with ants, roaches, and rats that share dirty food bowls and dry dishes. Wired cages are piled on top of each other to minimize cleaning with absolutely no concerns of waste disposals below each cage. Food in water is often contaminated by fesses and the unsanitary conditions around. The food that is given to dogs has very little nutritional value in it, but that is even if the dog gets any of the food at all. A Puppy Mills “breeding stock” is where all the dogs are kept. They spend their entire lives in wired cages, boxes, animal carriers, shopping carts, or anything convenient. Dogs are overcrowded in unsanitary conditions with no veterinary care, very little water, no socialization with humans and will have no interactions with toys, going out for walks, exercise, and any type of basic grooming. Most dogs are crammed inside filthy areas where they will never get to experience the warm sun on their faces, the smell of fresh air, or get to feel the soft grass. Some dogs are exposed to all outdoor elements their whole lives. They often suffer from extreme heat in the summer or freeze in the winter due to lack of shelter. The wired cages cause injuries to their paws and legs and can cause agonizing pain. The breeding conditions lead to massive amount of litters every single year and more than half are killed or never find a home. When a Puppy Mill is no longer operating, breeding stocks are either abandoned; dogs are killed, or sold off to another Mill where abuse starts all over again.
Puppies that are often killed when their born usually have some type of physical condition or it was because they had became sick. Pet stores do not want any of those dogs.

Each female dog is bred at every single opportunity given with little or no time to recover between each litter. Once the breeding females are done and no longer able to breed, operators kill them. Dog fights also occur in these cages crammed with dogs leaving many of them hurt and injured with no veterinary care waiting for them. Once a puppy is born they stay with their mother until from about six to eight weeks of age and are ready to be sold to make a profit. These puppies often get lack of nutrition from leaving their mothers earlier than recommended.
Dogs are prone to all kinds of diseases from their living environment. Some of the miner sicknesses these dogs receive are runny noses and oozing sores. Some problems are faced with these dogs such as illness, diseases, fearful behavior and lack of socialization with both humans and other animals. The most common diseases animals come home from the pet stores with are Guardia, Parvovirus, Kennel Cough, Pneumonia, Mange, Fleas, Ticks, Intestinal Parasites, Heartworm, and Chronic Diarrhea. Many other dogs go through much more pain and become a lot sicker. Congenital and hereditary conditions are also very common due to inbreeding of all types of dogs. Many end up with conditions like Epilepsy, Heart Disease, musculoskeletal disorders from crammed cages, endocrine Disorders, blood disorders, deafness, eye problems, and even respiratory disorders. Operators fail to separate each sick dog from all the healthy dogs in their breeding pools. This causes dogs and puppies to become much more prone to all these types of diseases.

There are many ways to fight to ban Puppy Mills to help stop animal cruelty. The biggest concern is buying from pet stores or any place without seeing the entire facility and meet the breeder to assure there was no Puppy Mill involved. Make adoption the first option! Not only will you be saving a life but the money spent will not be supporting Puppy Mills. If someone is unable to find a specific breed from a shelter, buy a dog from a breed rescue by searching on the internet for a breed-specific rescue organization. Also, recognize a responsible breeder. A responsible breeder should screen the buyer as much as the buyer screens them to make sure each dog goes to a good home. Responsible breeders take into consideration of what each individual dog likes. Always ask to see their breeding facility to see where all the dogs are born and bred. If they happen to say no, that is one sign that it could be a Puppy Mill. Another thing you can do is to ask for an adoption contract explaining all responsibilities, wealth guarantee, and the return policy. Even more important, spread the word and speak out. Inform the state and the federal legislators about how and why Puppy Mills should be made illegal. Spread the word to many friends about the things you know about Puppy Mills and ways that you can help stop them. Puppies are just as healthy in a shelter, if not healthier then at a pet store. So when that cute little puppy is in the window of a pet store, just remember all those dogs that need people’s help and resist buying from any commercial breeding facilities to prevent supporting animal abuse.

Saving One Dog

2010-02-07T13:22:00.000-08:00

"Saving just one dog won't change the world, but it will surely change the world for that one dog".
..... Richard C. Call

Please don't buy while millions of dogs die.
LAWS ANIMAL RESCUE

Rescued Pit Bulls

2010-01-24T18:50:00.000-08:00

These two Pit Bulls named Tiny Tim and Vixen were severely emaciated and confiscated from someone's home in December 2009. After loving care from Pit Stop Bullys Rescue this is how they look now.

http://pitstopbullys.com/default.aspx

Photos by Lisa of Little Pet Project

Heartworm

2010-01-24T18:18:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ty2PB0O-XaY

Pet Stores

2010-01-05T18:35:00.000-08:00

Ninety-nine percent of puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy mills. The puppies are expensive, many are in-bred, low quality pure-breds, and the consumer runs a high risk of purchasing an animal with severe health problems that can cost many thousands of dollars in vet care. You will notice that Petco and PetSmart do not sell puppies. These establishments sponsor dog and cat adoptions by rescue groups.

PLEASE DO NOT PURCHASE A PUPPY FROM A PET STORE. VOW NOT TO STEP FOOT IN A PET STORE THAT SELLS PUPPIES OF ANY KIND.

Adopt from your local animal shelter or rescue. Thank you!!!
LAWS ANIMAL RESCUE

Just One Dog

2009-12-27T18:55:00.000-08:00

http://www.blip.tv/file/3014054

Making a difference one dog at a time.
Please view this video.

Bonnie

2009-12-23T19:22:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Bonnie, it has been a pleasure having you in my home. Someone saw your picture and couldn't get you out of their mind. I think we've found your forever home. I will miss you, my beautiful Bonnie.

Linda from LAWS

Essence of Rescue

2009-12-13T20:02:00.000-08:00

I will not judge you based on your age or breed
I will not pass you by because you are ill
I will care for you no matter how much time you have left
I will give you unconditional love for the rest of your life

As Close As It Gets!

2009-12-04T19:22:00.000-08:00

I passed by cage #21 and there sat an 8 month old black labrador mix. His face was all patchy from hair loss due to a skin condition that appeared to be healing. Unfortunately, he was passed by again and again because of his unattractive face and sat at the shelter for many, many days.
A few minutes after passing him by, a visitor came up to me and asked to see the dog in cage #21. I was happy and hopeful. We walked toward the cage and he was gone. I grabbed an officer and asked where the dog was. She immediately called on her radio to another area of the shelter and we were informed that the dog was in the euthanization room under sedation just about to be euthanized! Incredibly the procedure was stopped! This sweet young loving adorable funny faced lab was adopted by a wonderful woman and saved at the last possible second.

This is as close as it gets.

Faces of Shelter Dogs

2009-11-27T20:36:00.001-08:00

I have gotten to know each and every one of these dogs. They have feelings, thoughts, personalities, and pasts unique to each one. All are inherently, valuable beings who deserve to be happy, live, and be loved by someone. People are breeding these dogs and it is our ethical and moral responsibility to see that they are taken care of throughout their lives. It is inexcusable that they are tossed out onto the street, no where to go but here, where their life will be cut short after only a few days due to lack of homes. A dog will be euthanized if not adopted whether they are 10 years old or 6 months old. This tragedy must end and I'm asking everyone to help. Adopt from a shelter or rescue, volunteer with a shelter or rescue or simply educate someone who is unaware of this enormous and still growing problem.

My Fear of Pit Bulls

2009-11-26T00:12:00.000-08:00

I've had very little interaction with Pit Bulls in my life. I, too, was afraid of them. Most of what I heard was that they were unpredictable, vicious, attack dogs. When I decided to volunteer at the shelter I was unsure of my ability to get over my fear, enter a kennel with such an intimidating looking dog, especially in a cage, and attempt to leash him, but I was determined to educate myself and get over that fear. To my surprise I "unleashed" my fear in one day. Over the last few months I have interacted with as many as 100 pit bulls, every one of them friendly, loving and easy to photograph due to their submissive stance when in your presence. There is no doubt in my mind that one day I will either foster a Pit Bull or own one. It is true, however, everyone must be responsible with such a powerful dog and take all precautions necessary to keep everyone safe. However, we must all understand that this is true with all breeds of dogs, including, small dogs with children, large dogs with strength and dogs that may have been taught aggression by a human being. These breeds may also include popular dogs such as German Shepards, Dobermans, Rottweilers, and yes even small Shih Tzus and Poodles. Use common sense. Realize as well, that many stories we hear about are the negative ones, not the positive ones, of which there are MANY!

Adopt! Please do not breed!
Thank you.
LAWS ANIMAL RESCUE
PAST IT ON!

Go Puppy Mill Truck Go!!!

2009-11-25T23:13:00.000-08:00

Please view:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=4B6ugPAF-7I

www.puppymilltruck.com/

Educate your friends and family. So many people just don't know!
PASS IT ON!!!!!!!

Inside a Puppy Mill

2009-11-24T19:01:00.000-08:00

Puppy mills are mass dog breeding facilities that have been around for decades. They continue to thrive because they prey on consumers who are smitten by cute puppies in pet stores or websites. However, behind the scenes lies the puppy mill where the parents of these puppies are suffering terrible lives often for many years. These dogs live their entire lives in cages, continually bred, without human companionship, little or no medical care, poor quality food, and sometimes never seeing the light of day. They can endure intense heat in the summer and freezing cold in the winter. Cages are stacked one on top of the other while the cage on the bottom receives feces and urine from the cage above, the paws of dogs get stuck in the wiring damaging the leg to the point of losing it, and the pads of their feet bleed from cuts. Most of these dogs have horrific illnesses including respiratory infections, worms, hair loss, tooth decay, blindness and loss of hearing. Some dogs can lose their bottom jaw due to severe dental disease. Not only do they suffer physical pain, but emotional and mental torture as well. Some dogs are in a box or cage their entire lives which causes intense mental instability and may never recover if ever rescued. Only half of the puppies born in these conditions survive. The surviving puppies enter the pet stores or the internet for sale. If you are considering buying from a pet store or internet, think about the parents of this puppy. 99 PERCENT of puppies in pet stores come from puppy mills and the pet store owner will lie about it.

I'm not asking, I'm begging, PLEASE DO NOT buy from pet stores or the internet.

Please do not buy while thousands suffer and die!
PASS IT ON!

View these links to learn more:

http://www.hua.org/Dogs-For-Adoption/Beau.html

http://www.prisonersofgreed.org/download.html

Puppy Mill Dog Poem

2009-11-24T18:53:00.000-08:00

I sat inside the mill so long, I thought the sky was black. Then one day rescue came for me and I'm not looking back. Now I live in foster care with many friends I played, there were many pillows everywhere in which I always layed. I waited there for quite a while, yet no one seemed to care, being old is difficult and sometimes so unfair. Now I stand beside the Lord his hand pressed on my head, he said he couldn't bear to watch and took me up instead. A tear was falling down his cheek and then he softly said, dogs were my great gift to man yet they abuse instead. He then began to tell me that he hoped that man would "see" and open up their arms with love for seniors just like me. Rather disappointed that again nobody came, he said he taught man better, then shook his head in shame.

Seniors Make Wonderful Pets
PASS IT ON!

Adopting From Rescue

2009-11-21T18:05:00.000-08:00

Adopting from Rescue is a very different experience from shelter adoptions. Their goal is to find forever homes for dogs, cats and other animals using a process that ensures the happiness of the family and the pet. Animals from rescue live in foster homes while in rescue care. This allows the potential adopter to contact the foster family and obtain valuable information about the pet in which they have interest. The foster family can provide information on temperament, whether the animal can live with other dogs and/or cats and how it reacts towards children of different ages. The foster family also provides house training, training in manners and will work on any other behavior issues the dog/cat may exhibit. The rescue group provides all veterinary care including, spay and neuter, vaccinations, etc. up to and including very expensive treatments for any medical issues at hand. Prior to adoption the dog or cat's needs are met and included in the adoption fee. An application form must be filled out and most rescues require a home visit to ensure the home the pet will live in is acceptable. They require a veterinary reference as well as a personal reference. Many rescue groups are breed specific, so if you are interested in a particular breed they can provide lots of information to ensure the breed is right for your family. One of the best ways to find a rescue in your area is www.petfinder.com. This website will provide you with not only dogs and cats, but birds, small animals and animals of all kinds all over the country. Another advantage of adopting from rescue is if for any reason your family can no longer care for your pet, they will take the animal back and find another wonderful forever home for your pet. As opposed to a shelter, there are many advantages to utilizing rescue for adoption and can be a very informative way to find the best possible pet for your family.

Adopt From Rescue Groups!
www.petfinder.com

PASS IT ON!

Shelter Adopters

2009-11-21T17:43:00.000-08:00

I meet many people at the shelter, whole families trying to find their great family dog or a young person who just bought a house and wants a dog now that he/she has a yard. But sometimes I meet those special people that find the shelter a difficult place to visit. How many times have you said to yourself, "I can't go to the shelter it's so sad." I've seen people walking through the kennels with tears in their eyes, with sad faces and desperate concern. A woman was about to enter the ladies room and turned her head to me and said "I have diarreah. Every time I come to a shelter I'm so upset I get diarreah." But she didn't leave. When she came out of the bathroom she went back to the kennel and adopted a 4 year old Shih Tzu. Another woman who lost her dog just 2 months earlier was so glad to have someone to talk to about her loss. She came to the shelter to seek some comfort and knowing that adopting dog would save a another life. At times, someone will point out to me that a dog is getting picked on by another dog or a dog whose paw is bleeding, or another who looks so sad. These are brave people. They put aside their feelings of sadness for the sake of the animals. Regardless of the pain they feel, they go to the shelter and adopt.

Go to the Shelter! Adopt a Pet Today
PASS IT ON!

Pit Bull Adoption

2009-11-20T19:56:00.001-08:00

I volunteered at the shelter today and met with an older couple. I approached them and asked what type of dog they were looking for. The man said "we want a Pit Bull". I said, oh, ok, we have plenty of them here. He and his wife explained to me that they would like a puppy and love very large dogs. They have experience with large dogs as well as Pit Bulls and have found them to be very wonderful, loving pets. We walked through the kennel looking for a young Pit Bull to fit their needs. Yes, this cute elderly couple found their sweet pit!

According to the American Temperament Test Society, Inc. Pit Bulls (American Staffordshire Terrier) scored one point below Golden Retrievers.

Please don't buy while thousands die.
PASS IT ON!

Right Next Door

2009-11-18T20:50:00.001-08:00

As a child I witnessed first hand the cruelty imposed on a young defenseless dog right next door to where I lived. A boy would come out of his home and beat his dog over the head with a bat. Everyday I sat by my living room window waiting and watching over this poor dog who was fenced and chained in his backyard. When the boy came out with his bat I'd scream for someone to help. This dog was also severely matted with little food to eat, never going inside his home. He endured severe heat in the summer and intense cold in the winter. Finally someone intervened on his behalf, but sadly, this sweet young dog was euthanized since no other home was readily available. This incident stayed with me all of my life. Now I work daily to help homeless dogs and cats, giving them safe, happy, forever homes.

Save a life - Adopt
PASS IT ON!

Goodbye Sweet Dog

2009-11-18T20:42:00.000-08:00

I went to the shelter today and visited many dogs, played with them, hugged them, gave them treats. This husky sat on my lap for a long time. She didn't want to leave me as if she was saying "don't leave me here, I didn't do anything wrong". Her sad face touched my heart and I wanted so badly to take her home and make her life happy again, but I can't. I can't save them all. In my mind I know this, but in my heart I must try.

She will be euthanized tomorrow. Her time is up. She was 5 years old.

My First Foster

2009-11-15T21:24:00.000-08:00

Dear Ashton,
I saw you at the shelter one day. You were huddled in the corner, so afraid of everything. You wouldn't come near the cage door to greet any visitor, too scared and not knowing what was going to happen to you. Day after day went by and nothing changed. You still couldn't understand your circumstances and why you were there. No one paid any attention to you, only I came to visit you. I took you out of your cage to walk in the yard. You were timid but sweet and let me pet you. I picked you up and held you for a while telling you everything would be ok. I knew after many days gone by that not a single person was going to give you a chance. Finally I took you home. Oh how happy you became after only one day. We took walks together, you met my cats, you met all my other dogs. How incredible it was to find you, your personality so sweet, totally housebroken from day one, very loyal and affectionate. So many people don't realize how any family can find such a great dog in an animal shelter.

My dear first foster. I love you Ashton.

Adopt from you local animal shelter or rescue.
PASS IT ON!

God and Dog

2009-11-15T21:09:00.000-08:00

Take a Stand!

2009-11-15T19:32:00.000-08:00

It is time for all of us to take a stand on the homeless problem of our pets. Only one in ten dogs ever lives in a forever home. That means 9 out of 10 dogs are currently homeless. The statistics for cats are much worse. We are breeding dogs for profit without considering these awful consequences. Consider that taxpayer's money is being used to house these stray dogs and cats in town and county shelters all over the country. These animals are found on the streets or turned in by owners because they don't care about them anymore or can no longer care for them. Most are euthanized due to lack of homes. Consider this: imagine one of your pets that you love so dearly left in a shelter, scared, lonely, wondering where his family is and why they left him there. While your dog is at the shelter he is confined to a kennel, housed with one, two or three other dogs, with the potential of getting attacked by one of them. He is hoping day after day that his family will come back, and after losing that hope, he gets desperate for someone to save him. Over time, your dog becomes ill with respiratory infections, kennel cough, possible injury from other dogs and runs the risk of contracting deadly diseases such as Parvo and Distemper.

Please, it's time to take a stand. DO NOT purchase a dog from a pet store or breeder.

Adopt from your local shelter or rescue group.
PASS IT ON!

Debbie

2009-11-15T16:40:00.000-08:00

Debbie lived in the shelter for 12 days. She was very matted and emaciated when she arrived. Another problem was that Debbie was 11 years old and heartworm positive. No one wants an old, sick dog. Rescue stepped in and frantically tried to find a home to save her life since her time was up at the shelter. Thankfully, a very kind woman with a heart of gold adopted Debbie. All rescue people involved were so happy for her. A week later the woman wrote to all who cared about Debbie:

"It is with a heavy heart and tears in my eyes that I tell you all that Debbie died. She had quite a case of heartworm and the vet said that even the monthly medication might cause her to have a heart attack and die suddenly. So we chose not to medicate her. Now I don't know if that was the right decision. She slept on a rug next to my bed and I awoke early this morning to a noise. It was Debbie trying to catch her breath. I woke my daughter because I could tell she was going to die before I could get her to the vet. Debbie died with both of us rubbing her head and telling her we love her. We hoped to give Debbie a few years of pampered living, but that was not to be. All we gave her was a few days. My comfort is in the fact that she died, not alone in a shelter, but with two people who loved her."

Adopt from your local animal shelter or rescue.
PASS IT ON!

Shelter Dog

2009-11-15T12:19:00.001-08:00

This is the face of one dog out of millions in animal shelters across our country. He has a 1 in 10 chance of finding a permanent home. 10,000 pets EACH DAY are euthanized due to lack of homes. This one shelter euthanizes 13,000 pets each year. Why is this happening? We must stop breeding dogs in puppy mills and in our homes. We must stop purchasing dogs from pet shops and backyard breeders. Finally, spay and neuter our pets.

Adopt from your local shelter or rescue group.
PASS IT ON!