Willie Wonka

Telling people what to think and what to do ????? Nnaahhh.....

2012-02-18T19:45:00.001-08:00

This question below just came tonight on FB from Rick. I am going to answer him because I think he was really serious when he asked it.

Ever consider that what you really want is to tell people what to think and do, and folks don't listen because they resent the presumption?

My reply:
- It has been considered...... and rejected, Rick.
  
  I, personally, would never tell someone HOW to think
  
  They is entirely up to them. I respect their right to make an informed
  decision , even if it is opposite mine. But, I do think that they have to
  be informed before they can make a good decision, don't you ?
  Wouldn't you read about the car before you bought it ? We want them
  to read about the politicians they vote for, We want the truth to be
  told about the broken shelter system and 8 million dead animals last
  year. We want someone to say "ENOUGH KILLING" and stop the
  madness. But that will not happen if they keep sticking their heads ,
  well, where they do not allow them access to pertinent information.
- I do not want anyone telling me what to do and I would not tell'someone else what to do, as long as they were not harming
  anything. ( If I could make that Bold, I would)
  They are harming a lot of things now by remaining silent. As you well know, silence is consent and compliance.

Socializing your dog

2012-02-16T09:18:00.002-08:00

Does your dog play nice with others ?
Everyone would like their dogs to get along well with all others but that is often not the case.
Here are some tips to help get your new dog socialized and to keep your older dog as friendly as they can be.

Obedience classes provide an environment where all the dogs are kept under control. This can be very helpful if your pet seems wary around other dogs. Organized classes give him the opportunity to be around other pups, but from a slight distance.
If you have friends with dogs, arrange play dates with one (carefully selected) dog at a time. Put your dog and his doggy friend in a safe, enclosed area and let them get to know each other. This is another low pressure social situation in which your pup can hone his skills without being overwhelmed by too many dogs, or an overly dominant dog.
Get involved in dog agility competitions. These events provide a great opportunity for your dog to be around other dogs and people while getting lots of exercise and mental stimulation.
If agility isn’t appealing, there are lots of other activities that might be, including flying disc, dock jumping/dock diving, flyball, herding, hunt and field trials and musical freestyle. Dogplay.com is a good resource for exploring organized exercise and socialization possibilities.
A really fabulous socialization activity you can share with your pet, depending on his temperament and personality, is training to be a therapeutic visitation dog.
Another possible option for socialization and exercise is to enroll your pet in a doggy daycare program one or two days a week. The facility you choose should have a knowledgeable staff, separate play areas for dogs of different sizes, and supervised playgroups. Extensive temperament tests should be performed on all dogs to evaluate their behavior in the daycare environment. Introduction to the pack should be gradual for all new dogs. A word of caution about doggy daycare facilities … most require at least yearly re-vaccinations for rabies, distemper, parvo and bordetella. Ask your vet if that is OK with them.
Last but not least, never underestimate the socialization value of regular daily walks with your dog. You both get fresh air, stress-relieving and perhaps even heart-thumping exercise, and opportunities to encounter old and new two- and four-legged friends.

Why be Active ?

2012-02-13T17:40:00.002-08:00

I am active as a my way of paying rent to the Earth & it's inhabitants

Join " The Shelter Revolution" www.ShelterRevolution.Org

Watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ih7BM01wQO0

Westminster Dog Show Stops "Shelter" Ads

2012-02-13T11:42:00.001-08:00

I was asked to comment on this article. The link is below . Your thoughts are MOST welcome !!!
My thanks to Amy for her blog post. She did a good job explaining the situation. I do not think the AKC does a good job at all. I have a lot of resentment for their lack of support behind puppy mill bills. Those barbaric puppy mills are making $$$ for the AKC . Those overbred and abused dogs get their "papers" when they send in their membership fee, even though they are are likely to be sickly and probably live a much shorter life.
I write more about the AKC another time.

PHILLY DAWG: “HAPPY DOGS” REPLACE SAD-EYED POUND PUPPIES AT WESTMINSTER DOG SHOW

Posted by Administrator on Feb 13, 2012 in Philly Dawg

From The Philadelphia Inquirer, Amy Worden’s blog, Philly Dawg

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2012

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show has dumped its lead sponsor Pedigree after 24 years.The reason? The American Kennel Club didn’t like those tear-jerker commercials of sad-eyed shelter dogs peering out from behind lonely cage bars.

So this year’s Westminster show, which starts tomorrow at Madison Square Garden in New York, will be sponsored by Nestle Purina Petcare whose messages will feature “happy dogs.” “The feedback we got from our primary audience was that they were seeing commercials that made them want to turn the channel,” said Westminster spokesman and longtime TV host David Frei.

The Pedigree commercials, seen by 3.4 million dog show viewers, helped raise some $7 million for the Pedigree Foundation , which supports shelters across the country (click on link for happy adoption stories).

Some 25 percent of shelter dogs are purebred, some percentage of those enter with AKC registration papers. We know that all too well in Pennsylvania where dogs from cruelty seizures, among them kennels owned by recognized AKC breeders, flow – and sometimes flood – into shelters every year.

Frei said the show didn’t like the idea that Pedigree was trying “shame” viewers.

http://atailtotell.com/newwebsite/2012/02/13/philly-dawg-happy-dogs-replace-sad-eyed-pound-puppies-at-westminster-dog-show/

I read about this earlier this week. At first I thought, like many will, ' That's too damn bad if they don't like to see those commercials !"
But, after thinking about it, I realized that there are many ways to deliver that message and they really should find a way to share the story of the homeless pet population without using the same sad commercials. Some imagination would have done a lot more good than losing the contract to someone who will not really try to do more than sell their product. We can not force people to learn or to care. We can only provide them information is a way to make it easy to understand and "interesting", especially to the "target audience". This is one example when being stubborn about the method, not the message, was a bad move. I am sorry it worked out this way. People need to hear the truth. We need to figure out how to tell them without having them turn off their TV sets. We need to be smarter !

Jasmine - Just how smart is she ?

2012-02-12T18:50:00.000-08:00

Why is it that every time I start to think that my girl Jasmine is the most intelligent dog on earth, she goes into my yard and rolls in the most disgusting stuff I have ever smelled?? I mean, just how smart can Jazz be when she rolls in that crap ??? But, I do have to say, she was smart enough that when I saw her covered in "slime" , she went right upstairs and got into the bathtub : ))
TRUE STORY ! It isn't boring

National Dog Week Blog

2012-02-10T18:08:00.001-08:00

Lisa K has done a good job of reporting her experiences with a puppy store in her NY county.
Please check it out.

http://nationaldogweekbook.wordpress.com/

Where did your cute puppy come from ??

2012-02-10T09:20:00.000-08:00

below are some of the comments I got minutes after posting this photo:

Claudia Mahan How sad and disgusting. Puppy Mills need and have to be outlawed by every state. This is no Life for those poor Dogs.
Lesley Roberts ·
so sad wot can we all do to stop this
Michelle Arostegui Grimm Absolutely horrible!!!!! Wish everyone knew where their puppy came from when buying from a pet store (not saying all pet stores work with puppy mills but the ones that do).
Brenda Yohman Frick Thank you Willie for posting this. This is where that cute, little puppy you buy at the flea market, yard sale, etc., etc., comes from. One may think that they are "saving" a puppy.....one is NOT, one is perpetuating the problem. Get your companions from a reputable shelter or rescue. Then AND only then will one be saving an animal.

Info we all need to share

2012-02-09T18:19:00.000-08:00

ADOPT PLEASE !!

DO NOT SHOP !

Justice for LBD ( Little Brown Dog )

2012-02-08T18:59:00.004-08:00

2 1/2 years ago, Oct..2009, a man named Jimmy Lovell tied a Little Brown Dog , who belonged briefly to his girlfriend, to his truck bumper and dragged her down the street intending to skin her alive. The good citizens of Knoxville, Tn. stopped him . Lovell got out, cursing at them, threw the dog in his truck and drove away . A few blocks later, he threw her out the window and she landed on the side of the road. A passerby picked her up and took her to the hospital.
That Little Brown Dog, or "LBD" as she was known nationally, lived and flourished with the love and skilled care she had the entire time she was at UT Vet School. They were the only place with the ability to save her! In spite of the reality of a $5000 cost, they did everything they could to ease her pain and help her heal. Athena, Ginger and I started a Facebook group to make him famous and send him to prison, We also wanted to raise $$ to compensate UT Vet School for their expenses.In a little over 4 weeks, the Vet School said they had "plenty of $$ now and people should donate it to their local shelters for their LBD's."

On Feb 21st, Lovell is finally going to trial , after postponements &delays. We presented a petition signed by over 5,000 people in a couple weeks I printed the whole thing and a good facebook friend, Angela Jordan, personally handed it to the DA's office for our group, on TV. Last year a judge said there as enough evidence to hold this trial for one count of Felony Animal Cruelty. This crime can be punished by prison time.
Read abut this on the group wall, share it with your friends. LBD is living the life of a princess now !! She was the Mardi Growl Queen in this years parade. You can see many photo's at the group. We are asking for any donations to go directly to the UT Vet School, marked "LBD" fund. These Dr.s work miracles every single day for many LBD's and all the rest brought into those doors. Let's give them the "discretionary" funds they deserve to have. Donation instructions on the UT Vet school web site and links at our group.
Rally Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/386294704719458/

http://www.vet.utk.edu/temp/video/LittleBrownDogVideo01.html
RALLY ON FEB 21 - AM ( across from the courthouse )
https://www.facebook.com/events/386294704719458/

Join us NOW !
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Justice-For-LBD/173306326115008

How can we make people understand ?

2012-02-08T15:39:00.000-08:00

What can we do to make them understand that Killing Millions of animals every years in not accomplishing anything but branding us mass murders .It does not work. This system is broken !!! Throw it away !

www.ShelterRevolution.Org

NO NEW Puppy Mill - Thanks to public outrage !!!

2012-02-07T20:46:00.000-08:00

Willie Wonka commented on Life With Dogs.

I suggest that every one of you write a short clear message. Stating that allowing this large scale breeding operation and the inevitable large scale torture and suffering is inhumane and not the actions of responsible, considerate lawmakers.

Gorham, NY Welcomes New Puppy Mill

www.lifewithdogs.tv

The Ontario County, NY County Planning Board has approved plans for a new wholesale dog breeding facility owned by breeders previously cited for USDA violations.

· · Yesterday at 5:03pm

- Willie Wonka For those of you who wish to do more than send one email, here is some good contact info for Ontario, NY . Of course, One good media contact is worth a ton of email , so reach out to the local TV stations there. There has to be an animal lover there ......http://www.gorham-ny.com/contact/index.html
  Town of Gorham New York
  www.gorham-ny.com
  Directory of Gorham Town Offices PO Box 224 4736 South St. G...See More
- Lisa Begin Kruysman http://brick.patch.com/articles/pet-store-operators-charged-with-42-counts-of-animal-cruelty Here is where those dogs wind up...
  Pet Store Operators Charged With 42 Counts of Animal Cruelty
  brick.patch.com
  NJSPCA police criminally charge owners of Puppies Galore in Brick
- Willie Wonka
  Fred Lightfoote, the Town Supervisor would love to hear from you : flightfoote@gorham-ny.com
  
  http://www.lifewithdogs.tv/2012/02/gorham-town-supervisor-bows-to-public-pressure-calls-for-moratorium-on-proposed-dog-breeding-operation/
  Gorham Town Supervisor Bows to Public Pressure, Calls for Moratorium on Proposed Breeding Facility
  www.lifewithdogs.tv
  Public outrage over a proposed new puppy mill has led Gorham, NY Town Supervisor Fred Lightfoote to reverse his position on the project.
  6 hours ago · · 2 ·
  Willie Wonka WE WERE HEARD !!! My Thanks to everyone who made a call or sent an email !!
  6 hours ago · · 3
  Maria Restrepo Forte · 4 mutual friends
  Great news

Super Bowl Snacks - not for your pet !

2012-02-05T08:40:00.000-08:00

Sunday’s big game now trails only Thanksgiving in terms of US food consumption. This enormous engorgement not only threatens many weight loss resolutions, it also may add unhealthy pounds and dangers to our dogs and cats. Sharing a few nibbles of healthy snacks such as celery or carrots is fine, pizza and wings are not.

“When we look at weight gain in humans and pets, big single-day caloric consumption can have life-long consequences,” notes Dr. Ernie Ward, founder and president of APOP. “A pet can be fed a healthy, low-calorie diet and have their efforts erased with a huge feast.”

Ward points out several foods to avoid feeding your pet on Super Sunday. “Don’t feed your pet anything fried or battered, covered in creamy sauces and steer clear of salty snacks.” In fact, Ward recommends limiting any super snacks to “crunchy vegetables such as broccoli, baby carrots, celery and asparagus.” According to Ward, each chicken wing has about 55 calories. A 20-pound dog fed a single chicken wing is similar to an average adult eating almost seven wings. Feed a 40-pound dog one-half slice of pepperoni pizza and that’s the same as an adult consuming two slices of pepperoni pizza and a 12-ounce cola.

It’s not just the calories that worry Ward. “Americans will eat about 1.25 billion chicken wings during the game. That equals 1.25 billion chances for a dog or cat to ingest a bone that can cause serious complications.” APOP warns pet owners not to feed their pets chicken wings due to the risk of intestinal obstruction or worse.

“An often overlooked risk of chicken wings is salt,” states Ward. “One buffalo wing has almost about 160 to 200 mg of sodium. That’s about the amount of sodium recommended for a 20-pound dog in a day. Feeding a dog too much salt can cause high blood pressure and can contribute to kidney and heart disease.” Other foods high in salt that should not be fed to pets include pizza, hamburgers and cheeseburgers, fries, pretzels, potato chips, canned beef stew, potato salad and many sauces.

No BONES - No FAT- No SALT

They will love you anyway !

ARC-NA . Org

2012-02-04T18:42:00.000-08:00

My friend and long time animal advocate is writing a blog and sharing her site with others who have stories to tell. I think you will find some interesting things to learn there.
http://www.arc-na.org/

Target - the Hero Dog returns home

2012-02-04T09:22:00.000-08:00

I was involved in raising money and getting some dogs out of Iraq when their "tours" were over. It takes a lot of dedicated humans to get one dog back to the States from the war zone. People in other countries all join together donating their time and their money, to get these dogs back to the US. Last year I was involved in the effort to bring a dog named "Target" back to his handler from Iraq. Target, along with 2 other canines on patrol, had saved the Army unit from a suicide attack . 2 dogs and 3 attackers were killed, but Target survived.
It cost over $7,000 to bring him back to the states. Target was given a hero's welcome in NY , when he finally arrived in the USA. Many of us celebrated his safe return to the states! Target was flown to Arizona to be reunited with his handler. He spent part of Thursday night in their back yard. But, someone left the gate open and soon Target was "patrolling" the neighborhood, as he was trained to do. Targets "owner" called the shelter on Friday and was told he was not there.
He looked for him Friday and told authorities that Target was missing. On Sunday, the soldier who was now his owner, was told that Target was at the shelter. He made arrangements to pick him up on Monday am. when the shelter re-opened. Target was "accidently" euthanized at 8am Monday by a part time shelter worker. Accidently dead ?!

I have heard of these accidents many times, in shelters all over America. They are common "mistakes". But, this was "Target", our National Hero. "Target", the dog who got ribbons, metals and saved many lives. Yet, Target, the "hero" dog, was dead, like so many others that Monday morning. The victim of a broken shelter system. I could not bring myself to being one more dog back into this country until the shelter system is fixed. I still have that rotten feeling in the pit of my stomach when I think about everything that went wrong in the time leading up to Targets death. I did not put the soldiers name in this story because he had already heard from people all over who were very upset about Target. He can not bring him back now either. There will be no more "Targets" for me. I save shelter dogs now, the homeless animals that no one wants. I am waiting for the "Shelter Revolution" before I help bring any more animals into this country. www.ShelterRevolution.Org

Dog chewing on your Carpet ?

2012-01-30T10:11:00.000-08:00

This came from a friend who fosters dogs when they first get out of the shelter. She makes sure they get the proper Vetting, and she helps them learn basics like house training and some commands. Then they are ready for a "furever" home .
dog-inheavenJan 29, 2012 02:53 PM
What happened Willie was he begun ripping up all the carpet in my house. I'm lucky as there is only 1100 sq. feet of it. The last pack of foster puppies I had helped me rip it up too. They loved pulling the carpet back. Jeez... what a mess.
Willie WonkaJan 30, 2012 10:06 AM
It's nice to hear from you. I know fostering those fur babies keeps you very busy !
I found that sprinkling Cayenne pepper where they are chewing stops it quickly. I also put some on either side of the area they are chewing.
You can try using double sided tape over the area they are chewing and tell them "NO".

Double sided tape is helpful when you want to stop a cat form scratching your favorite chair also.

More comments on my Facebook wall :
- Chrissa Grant We have a lg open air pen in our kitchen when I catch our little one chewing on the carpet she goes in there for a few min and that will stop her.......... for about and hour LOL Love my babies more then the carpet!
- Willie Wonka The "Time Out " is also a good idea, but it takes more time. In my case, Jasmine, our shelter baby, ate 2 different area rugs, not cheap ones but hand made tapestries. I wanted her to stop that immediately. Telling her"no." was not working. She would do it when she was left alone. Puppies will chew more but Jazz was over 1 year old when I got her.
- Celeste Minar Thibault This one is from a carpet layer...if your puppy is chewing on the edges of wall to wall carpet...get down at eye level and check for stray backing fibres...they are shiny and irresistable to small pups looking for fun...clip them away...so only the pile shows...I learned this one the hard way...lol
- Willie Wonka Thank You - This is a very good suggestion!

Wise words from an 8 year old....

2012-01-30T09:21:00.000-08:00

My 8 year old neighbor told me "you know you love your dog when he licks you all over your face and you do not wash it off " . I had to agree.....

Pet Stains on Carpet Furniture, Etc.

2012-01-22T09:12:00.000-08:00

Urine on carpet or furniture is a common problem for every pet owner. I am pretty sure that I have tried all of the commercial products over the years. My favorite now is "Woolite Pet Urine Eliminator". "Resolve Improved "also works well. even the best pet has an accident. If Woolite wants to send $ to Project Pets for this endorsement, we would welcome it : ) I always use a damp cloth and then blot it with a dry towel or paper towel.. Tell me your best solutions. I'd prefer some natural solutions if you have them .

Wesley For President !

2012-01-21T16:30:00.000-08:00

Shelter Dogs Are Not Broken

They are just homeless animals looking for someone to love

Adopt , Never Shop !!

Wesley , after only a few short lessons, was ready to run for White House Dog.
Watch Wesley speak his case : )
Click here : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjnpwUVZEeI&feature=player_embedded#!

Check out this short clip of practice for one of Chris' shows

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_H1RnCzdCc&feature=fvst

Adopting the Right Dog

2012-01-21T11:45:00.000-08:00

Shelter Dogs are NOT broken. They are homeless animals looking for love.

Adopting from today's shelters is not easy. If you know the breed you want, you will find YOUR breed in the shelter. ALL breeds end up there. Many have a "wish list" you can sign up . Labradoodles, Dobbies, Labs, Poodles, St. Bernard's, they all do. Walk along the cages and look at each one. Their approximate age,sex and breed will be listed. The information is a "best guess" from the ACO and it could be very wrong. Think about how much time and energy do you want to put into your new family member . A 2 year old Jack Russell is going to want a lot more of your time than a 5 year old Golden.Mixes. If that animal has bitten anyone, the shelter would not adopt it out

If you see a dog you like, get them out of the cage and as far away from the shelter as you can. Please- give them a few minutes to take care of business,. Spend some with them. I'd check to see how aggressive they are first. If you have children, or another pet, it's good if they are more passive. After spending some time talking to the dog and walking him as much as you can, let them feel your love. Pet them, pick up a paw and press between their pads lightly. See if they lick at your hand or they try to nip. While petting and being nice, roll them over on their back and see if they stay there and let you rub there belly, or do they fight to get back up. Get a sense of them. It's hard in that environment, so give both of you a while together.

You'll know when it's right. If the first dog is not, get another. They ll all need to get out, even if it is for a few minutes. You are doing them a big favor. Shelters always need help walking the dogs.
I have a long list of things to look for when choosing the right shelter dog for you.
I will be happy to send it to you on request.
If I can meet you at the Guilford shelter and help you find the right animal , just let me know.

HOW DO YOU KNOW YOU"RE DONATING TO A "REAL" RESCUE ????

2012-01-18T16:29:00.000-08:00

I am asked this question a lot !!

Keep in mind, " Let the Buyer Beware" is the law of the Internet.

You have to be smart about where your money is going. This is very important !!! Be sure your money goes to helping the animals! You should ALWAYS check out any rescue before donating a penny. There are a lot of predators using social media like FaceBook, taking advantage of the hearts of people new to the rescue world.

You'll see " SAVE THIS BABY, SHE HAS 1 HOUR TO LIVE " or " SHE IS PREGNANT + "DIES AT 3:15 TUESDAY". They are tugging at your heart and not giving you time to check them out. I see a lot of well intentioned money going to a "scammer's now . Million$ !! They are making a fortune at the expense of the animals. Too many people take the easy way and hit the "chip-in" button, put in a credit card # and chose to believe their money went to helping animals. There is little to no law enforcement chasing these thieves. That is the real truth. The IRS or the FBI can not keep up with the internet explosion.

There are so many wonderful rescues, and millions of people involved in helping these homeless animals. Their image should not be tainted by the greedy few who take advantage of those who do not know better. The sad fact is our shelters kill approximately 7 million animals a year. We can not save them all. Understand that is a fact and be smart about where your money goes. If they are not doing home visits, if the animals are not vetted, including Spay/Neuter, they are not helping. That is NOT real rescue.That is adding to the problem.

There are organizations that do track non profits such as "Morningstar " or " Charity Navigator ". There are many good rescues who are not 501c-3's though, and they are not rated. They still need help but you should always call the local shelter and check first.

My friend Tammy Cameron, an officer in our non profit 501c3, " Project Pets- Spay, Neuter, Love", wrote a great reply on my Facebook wall defining what is a "real Rescue" . I am pasting it here along with my comments.

I hope you will offer some of your own.

Tammy:

" When I researched your question I came across many different opinions on what you should look for. Here are some of the ones I like to see. A reputable rescue has a contract, screens every potential adopter with a MANDATORY home visit before a pet is placed there, incl. foster/temporary basis and requires references.

A reputable rescue follows through on contacts and references and investigates each thing completely.

A reputable rescue has references from shelters in their area and works with those shelters.

A reputable rescue checks on the care of the previous or current pets with the vet, to ensure future pets will have proper medical attention.

A reputable rescue spays/neuters all pets before placement.

A reputable rescue makes sure animals are up to date on all vaccines, and microchips where appropriate to ensure all pets are healthy, up to date on all shots, worm prevention, and received necessary vet care before placement .

A reputable rescue always takes its adopted animals back if the placement isn't successful.

A reputable rescue keeps animals in foster care, or in situations where the animal was at a shelter, works with shelter staff for a short period of time before placing them, to screen for health or behavior problems.

A reputable rescue helps educate new adopters, and may require adopters to participate in training courses to assist in a good adoption.

A reputable rescue always returns calls or emails in a timely fashion.

A reputable rescue works carefully to match up the right forever home with the right pet, based on the pet's needs/personality/etc.

A reputable rescue will help adopters make decisions about which animal is a good fit for their home, and will offer advice and assistance on meeting the correct animal for the adopter.

A reputable rescue may ask that all family members and resident pets meet the new animal before an adoption is finalized. ( Where breed appropriate, several meetings may be required) .

A reputable rescue will never ask an adopter to take an animal "sight unseen" or take an animal arriving in on a transport right to a new home.

A reputable rescue makes an effort to work in harmony with the shelters, humane societies and animal control facilities.

A reputable rescue will have a cordial and informed relationship with other rescues.

A reputable rescue is not for profit, and works on adoptions, not with sales and fees.

A reputable rescue takes responsibility for the animals adopted through them for the span of each animal’s life, not "just” for the span of foster care or transport.

A reputable rescue carefully screens incoming animals for temperament and health, and has met and interacted with animals being offered for adoption.

A reputable rescue does not offer animals to be used for breeding, and should not promote animals with unstable or unknown temperaments.

A reputable rescue never places an animal as a surprise to the intended adopter.

A reputable rescue never places an animal as a gift to the intended adopter. The rescue will always involve the recipient in the decision to adopt as well as the application, home visit, and selection of the pet.

A reputable rescue places the welfare and happiness of the animal first, and screens the homes to ensure that the placement is a sound one for that animal.

A reputable rescue will never “hurry up” a process, or waive requirements simply for the convenience of the adopter.

A reputable rescue requires an application form and adoption contract.

A reputable rescue requires a legal release form for owner-surrenders.

A reputable rescue is recommended as a "good breed rescue group" by at least two established non-profit shelters in its own area.

A reputable rescue operates as an official public charity OR as a not-for-profit organization.

A REAL Rescue organization knows how many animals it can afford to care for properly. They know when to say "NO MORE " .

Willie Wonka: .
The bottom line is you have to be smart and willing to do some research before sending in the $5,!0, $100 to anyone.You should ALWAYS check.
There are so many wonderful rescues and millions of people involved is helping these homeless animals. Their image should not be tainted by the greedy few humans who take advantage of those who do not know better. The sad fact is our shelters kill approximately 7 million animals a year.

We can not save them all until we replace this broken shelter system.

Take the time to know where your money goes. If they are not doing home visits, if the animals are not vetted, including Spay/Neuter, that is NOT real rescue. That is adding to the problem. There are several organisations that do track non profits such as "Morningstar" and " Charity Navigator " which rates how well they spend the money donated to them.

There are many good rescues who are not 501c-3's though, and they are not rated. Call their local shelter and check with them. You can also call another rescue in that city and ask . I have found that is best.

My Dog's Day

2012-01-12T20:16:00.000-08:00

It's a nice day here in NC. and I decided to take Jazz for a nail trim before we waked.

At Petsmart , her personal nail assistant said I could wait another 10 days or 2 weeks,

So, Jasmine found a new toy instead. She loves that store !!

We leave and drive towards the park. Wait !!!!! First,

We stop at Brewster's Homes made ice cream and Jazzy gets her sundae ( Vanilla yogurt) and I get mine ( hot fudge) . Hers is gone in 12 seconds. Mine doesn't last much longer.

Yummy !

She's such a happy girl, hanging her head out the window, ears flying back, on her the way to the park. It's a sunny, warm 60 degree day .

We get to the parking lot and she can't wait to get out .

She already can see lots of squirrels !

Easy, easy, Jazz, and we walk together to the small walking trails we prefer.

She leaves her mark in a few "strategic" spots, much like any male.

Slowly she settles in , with a gentle tug on her leash and "whoa" if she starts to pull me.

This is not the park to let her off her leash so we are content to walk the mile of trails and look for deer, rabbits, a huge scary Owl, and critters. We often walk it more than once if I have time.

We finally get back to the car, walking together now, the leash hanging loose .

She corrects herself if it gets tight. She knows now.

We have been together a year and a half. She is no longer a puppy.

She knows the drill and what is expected, and she is a happy to do it.

We get in the car and I offer her water, which she drinks 'cause she thinks I want her to.

Then Jazz climbs right on my lap, looks into my eyes , licks my face from my chin to my forehead and says " What Good Day !!!
You Are my GOOD BOY !!! "

2012-01-10T17:18:00.000-08:00

I am VP of a non profit 501c3 in NC " Project Pets - Spay, Neuter, Love"

Annie has put a "chip in" for Project Pets on the front page of her web site.

This is a great way to generate donations and spread the Project Pets Name.

Who do you know with a web page ?? Ask them to link it to us. It may help a

LOT more than you think. Annie's site is a great resource for breast feeding

mothers. She is our Angel, quietly doing all she can to help Project Pets spay and

neuter as many as we can.

Thanks Annie - from EVERYONE ♥♥

With a lot of help, we can stop these babies from having homeless babies !

http://www.breastfeedingbasics.com/

Please visit our "Project Pets - Spay,Neuter,Love" on Facebook

Congrats Lisa !!

2012-01-10T17:01:00.000-08:00

My friend Lisa Begin-Kruysman's blog covers topics about her book, and interviews with people she meets along her journey of life. Lisa is sharing what she learns, and some of it really is an eye opener, as she gets more involved in the Animal rescue world. Her E-Book , "Something Has Been Lost and Must Be Found" was just printed as a paperback !! Lisa has a nice, "easy to read" style. I recommend her book! . It is an enjoyable collection of short stories. You can read more about Lisa, her blog and even an article about yours truly at
htttp://nationaldogweekbook.wordpress.com/

Guilford Shelter is FULL !

2012-01-09T15:52:00.000-08:00

Guilford Shelter has too many animals !! The "Christmas presents" are being "returned " because they require upkeep. Please remind your neighbors, tell the secretary at school, Please ADOPT !
* First Time Ever ......
I will help anyone who adopts a Guilford dog in Jan. to train that dog. I am not a professional trainer, but I am a dog. All these animals, (cats too), need a real home. We know what happens when they do not get adopted "quickly enough". I will help you train the dog you pick out !
"Shelter dogs aren't broken, they've simply experienced more life than other dogs. If they were human, we would call them wise. They would be the ones with tales to tell and stories to write, the ones dealt a bad hand who responded with courage. Don't pity a shelter dog. Adopt one. And be proud to have their greatness by your side." dogsrule.com

Dog Days Means "Good Days" in Greensboro, N.C.

2012-01-08T11:33:00.000-08:00

Special Wishes & Happy Birthday To Lonnie Sterling, owner of Dog Days in Greensboro, N.C. !!!
Lonnie and his wife, Kathy, are the owner/operators of "Dog Days" , a terrific "doggy day care "and boarding kennel in Greensboro, N.C. Lonnie has a highly unusual business plan. The dogs tell him what to do and he does it. This method has been working for many years now.
The building and play area are well maintained and clean. The animals all get to play with each other and have a very good time while they wait for their families to pick them up again. They even have video cameras and fancy stuff like that for the guardians, so where ever they are, they can check in on their fur-babies http://www.dogdaysgreensboro.com/
Lonnie & Kathy have a terrific program in place with the SPCA. They "Foster" one dog at a time, for as long as they need , until they find it a good home. Big dogs or small, Lonnie has loved them all. The SPCA picks the next lucky dog when the one they have gets adopted. This is exactly the kind of thing that people should know about a business owner when they chose to put their own pet in a day care, I'd like to say thanks to Lonnie and Kathy from all the fur babies they have saved !!
Every one was given a second chance at a good life.
That good life starts the day that dog meets Lonnie.
W♥♥ F

we need to help Thomas Cole

2011-12-22T21:53:00.000-08:00

‎****** C-A-S-E D-I-S-M-I-S-S-E-D! ******

Here's the letter I received today = http://i903.photobucket.com/albums/ac232/drdoolittle/Form-CASEDISMISSEDJan1912.jpg

This 5 minute video tells the story accurately. It is case of a very good friend wrongly accused of dog theft , and his dog taken by sheriffs. We need email and phone calls in Jan. to help him get the dog back.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ut6KwgPnU0M

THE DOG WAS RETURNED TO BRANDI TRACY - THE WOMAN WHO LEFT HIM TO DIE .
The city gave the dog back to his abuser. 1/23/12

Read the story below :

http://www.examiner.com/american-pit-bull-in-national/rescuer-threatened-with-jail-for-saving-dog-s-lives

Thomas Cole - Founder of Shelter Revolution www.ShelterRevolution.org
Personal Note :
Thomas is a good friend of mine and a huge friend of the animals .Two months ago, from Oct through Nov..2011, he searched for 5 weeks in the forests in Minn. to find 2 dogs abandoned by a local rescue/shelter named BraveHeart Rescue Inc. When he finally tracked and trapped the female , he returned the dog, who had survived a month in the woods with a muzzle on her mouth !!! Brandi Tracy, the owner of the rescue was barely grateful and later accused him of trespassing on her property returning the dog. Although Brandi publicly stated several times that the brother was at her home and fine. Thomas followed his heart and continued searching, He had heard about a dog with no muzzle and he wanted to find him. In spite of the storms and cold Minnesota weather, Thomas Cole went out every day to check those traps making sure the dog had not finally taken the bait. Thomas was obsessed with finding him . He knew he had the ability to track him he just needed the time. Hunters looking for bounty on coyotes and many natural predators were looking for him also. He did find the dog and with help from locals and some police, he got that dog into his townhouse and into a spare bathroom where he was safe + warm. At first Brandi said Thomas could have the sister, Lacy, also . The Sheriff brought over the paperwork, Thomas made some revisions and returned them, and then Brandi cancelled her offer. Shortly after she filed Theft charges against Thomas - for finding a dog she said she did not have, who was not missing and she had abandoned buy every measure you use. This is insane. The worst o fit is that dog is sitting in a cage at the County Shelter scared to death and NO ONE will take him out of that cage. He has never been on a leash. Thomas was just showing him a harness but no leash. Thomas has the special skills needs to help this dog, Brandi does not. She is just using them to hurt Thomas..as crazy as this sounds, it is the truth. . I spoke to Tom almost every day for that month and I know how much he put into that search. He was out of food and out of gas when he found Strong Heart, I had just sent him some $ to hold him over. This is SO wrong !

2011-12-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

I work for the animals whenever I can.I am an active supporter of Animal Rights and Welfare in NC.and where ever I can help. I am VP of a 501c3 non-profit called "Project Pets-Spay,Neuter., Love." .We work with the Humane Alliance to S/N animals for people who can not afford it. Please visit our Facebook Page and become an active member.
I do my work as Willie Wonka, the name of a poodle, who was my canine soul mate. My FB profile is at : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1669617071&ref=tn_tnmn The Shelter Revolution web site is: http://www.ShelterRevolution.Org
It explains the whole concept of how we can "Market" homeless pets, allowing them to live happily until they are adopted. Please take some time and read how you can be part of the solution .
Thanks for caring !

Basic Training

2011-12-15T08:40:00.000-08:00

I volunteer at the local County shelter and walk dogs. It gets them out of the cages for a few minutes, allows them to breath some fresh air and get away from the noise for a little while. One problem that I see there is the large number of dogs who are returned to the shelter because the adopters do not know how to train their new companions. Many of these dogs are good, sweet, loving animals who may have an annoying habit, like pulling on the leash when walking, or barking at cars. These are behaviors that are easily corrected. Certainly this is no reason to return a dog to a shelter, where the odds are, they will be put to sleep. There are many resources available to help humans better understand the way a dog thinks and to change the behavior that is bothering them. Old dogs DO learn new tricks !!