Angels Herald MAGAZINE
Welcome to this issue of ANGELS HERALD MAGAZINE! Our Angels Rescue photographer, Kathy Wesley, has provided our beautiful cover picture of a pup rescued by one of our volunteers, Araceli Dunn! Kathy not only takes beautiful photos for us but she also fosters and advocates for rescued pets at Angels Among Us Pet Rescue! Araceli not only fosters for Angels, she is one of our Records/Adoptions team leaders. She is also known in rescue circles as one of our “dog whisperers” - strays needing saving seem to always find her and we believe they sense “something” about her wonderful heart and spirit which draws them to her side! Something NEW with this issue! You, our dear readers, asked for it and now have the ability to click on features by page numbers and go directly to that article or feature within the interactive magazine format! Also, please do take time to see the announcement of our “For The Love of Paws” fundraiser on February 58th and purchase your tickets today to join us for music, food, drinks, fun and celebrating our love for rescued hearts! As always, we THANK YOU - our followers, supporters, donors! It truly takes a village and we could not do this without each of you linked arm in arm with us to give a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves! See you along the trail in 2015!
Beth
DON’T MISS A THING THIS MONTH!
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An Open Letter from our CEO, Lance White
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An Update on TAZ (fostered by the late Bev Mischler) - Gretchen Baker
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“Aumbre’s Sky” - A Tribute to an Angel Gone Home Too Soon
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February 14th’s Angels Fundraiser Event - “FOR THE LOVE OF PAWS”
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“OPERATION INVISIBLE PAWS” Largest single rescue ever accomplished!
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Confessions of Living With A Dog - Julie O’Bryant’s Monthly Column
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Haiku Series - A Poem from Kelli Harvey
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“A Letter From Your Dog”
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“Somebody Do Something - The Armchair Dog Rescuer” - Alex Andes
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Angels Videos IN THE NEWS - precious pair, DENNY and DRUMMOND
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“Stray” - What to do when you find a stray animal - Dinese LeBeau
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Our Featured Dog - Mirielle
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Our Featured Kitty - Brigid
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FIV Myths Chart - Important if you have a Feline in your home and life
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“Adopting a Dog Is a Serious Thing!” - Julie O’Bryant
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Angel’s Among Us FOSTER and VOLUNTEER Of The Month
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“Angels In The House” Music Video - our 1st ever music video is available!
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“Thank You Very Much!” - Corporate, Civic Donations
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Thank You’s To Our Supporters - We Couldn’t Do This Without You!
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Fun with Dogs and Cats! Some humor to brighten your day!
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Convert your old Collars to good use! Find out how today!
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Social Media Connects
40
To My Angels Family: It was a chilly March morning, nine months ago, when I found myself standing among what you see in this photo…dozens of dogs cowering and terrified in a home that was being condemned. Victims of a hoarding situation, these frightened animals stood watch over their deceased owner for days, worried and confused. Mere hours earlier, I had accepted the daunting but honorable opportunity to serve as the first-ever CEO of Angels Among Us, and here I stood in the middle of such a horrific situation. It was an incredibly chaotic scene. The odor was pungent, yes, but what I remember most was the sense of calm that swept over me as I watched this extraordinary organization kick into action. In a matter of hours, dogs were temp tested, transport secured, vetting established, fosters retained, and freedom rides commencing. Today, more than a dozen dogs, all saved from this tragic situation, are alive and well. This pull was made possible only because of you, the volunteers, fosters, supporters - all of you who are the true village that is known as Angels Among Us. I say we are the best in the rescue business because I really believe we are…our volunteers give so selflessly of time and talent and treasure: you feed, love, clothe, bathe and cherish these animals. You drive countless hours to chauffeur our dogs and cats to vet appointments, adoption events, and meet and greets with potential adoptive families. You spend your own money to buy toys and blankets and beds. You research diets to help the animals thrive. You go well above and beyond what we could possibly ask, all for the animals. They thank you, and so do I. As we look back on 2014, we should celebrate many successes as an organization. AAUPR has now officially rescued more than 7,000 animals since our inception five short years ago. More than 350 active foster homes are helping 500 dogs and cats find forever homes right now. We have taken on tough cases, tackled expensive surgeries, and rehabilitated dogs who have endured unthinkable prior abuse. We saved animals with little or no hope without you, our true angels, stepping up opening your hearts and homes. We’ve made the “impossible” possible by working together for the good and support of our rescued, voiceless souls. The past year has also presented some challenges, which is to be expected for an organization of our size and scope. One of our organization’s great challenges as we close out 2014 is saying goodbye to those who left this Earth and, in doing so, left an indelible mark upon us. We have shed many tears over the loss of volunteers like Cindy Hollingsworth and Bev Mischler. These women wore their AAUPR letters with pride and inspired all who met them. We also weep for the animals we tried to save, but couldn’t; the animals we did save but whose injuries were simply too substantial to treat, and the dogs and cats who were called to the Rainbow Bridge simply because they had reached the natural end to their life here on Earth. Each and every life lost will be missed, and I cherish them all, as I know you do, as well.
As I turn the calendar to 2015, I look forward to the year ahead, and I hope you do, too. We will have bumps, yes, but our organization will continue to evolve. All of you who adopt, foster, donate, volunteer, care, share are a vital part of that process. It takes all of us to walk our rescued pets to the threshold of their forever homes, and into the arms of their forever families who will care for them the rest of the way. As Henry Ford once said, “Coming together is the beginning. Staying together is progress. Working together is success.� I thank you for your involvement in Angels Among Us Pet Rescue. It is an honor to serve with you on this journey. Happy New Year!
Lance White CEO, Angels Among Us Pet Rescue, Inc.
Pictures to the Right are some of the photos taken of the hoarding situation where there were many, many animals living in filth and deplorable conditions as they stood guard over the dead body of their former owner. Angels Among Us Pet Rescue was directly involved in helping to save, find fosters and transition these poor souls into loving pets who were adopted into loving forever homes.
Angels Update: TAZ Is Home! 907 days… that is how long Taz was an Angels Among Us dog. And for almost every one of those 907 days he was lovingly cared for by his wonderful foster mom, Beverly Mischler, who is now an angel for real (Bev passed away on 12/27/14). You see, The Universe has a funny and often wonderful way of doing things sometimes... About a month ago a lovely family, The Fortsons, lost their elderly, sweet little Jack Russell Terrier, Elvis, from old age and complications from diabetes. They were devastated, naturally. Not long after that they saw Taz and couldn’t believe their eyes…a JRT with diabetes? For adoption? And no one had claimed him? The filled out an application and waited…
Gretchen, Angels Advocate, with wonderful TAZ
About a month ago, I began working with the Adopt Team to help process adoption applications. The application for TAZ was one of the first few I worked on. After reading up on him (diabetes? vision troubles? been in foster care for over two years?), then reading up on the Fortsons (recently lost Elvis, the diabetic JRT, who got to go to work with his mama?), I was delighted to tell this dedicated foster mom, Bev, the wonderful news - that a great opportunity for Taz had FINALLY presented itself. But I didn’t hear back from Bev, as she had taken ill and Taz was now in boarding. A few days later we all received the awful news that Taz’s Foster mama, Bev, succumbed to her illness and was called to her forever home. She was a true angel, now. Well, our earthly Angels, just like God’s Heavenly angels, work together, so off I went to coordinate a meet & greet with The Fortsons, their two girls, and their fur kids Frank (the kitty who owns the whole house and is the boss of you) and Coco, their Brindle Boston Terrier/Boxer mix. Of course they loved him - he’s a sweet and gentle little nugget who is always happy to ‘see’ you! Congrats and thanks to The Fortsons for taking on a little fella with special needs who requires a little more work than most. We know you all will give him the best care possible and spoil him with lots of love and Georgia Bulldogs tee shirts! I can’t help but believe that Elvis and Bev had their paws heavily on this delicious bit of serendipity. I hope they are hanging out together on the other side.
TAZ and his new family, the Fortsons!
His adopter says “TAZ is a GREAT dog! It's too bad people would over look a dog with a disability. He is the silliest most loving dog! My family adores him. The cat, not so much.” TAZ goes to work with her everyday!
Aumbre’s Sky “Helen Keller”
Run free, sweet girl. You ARE a true angel now! Do not grieve for me, my friend, as I am with my kind… My collar is a rainbow’s hue, My leash a shooting star My boundaries are the milky way, Where I sparkle from afar There are no pens or kennels here, For I am not confined But free to roam God’s Heavens, Among my “special” kind I nap the day on a snowy cloud, With gentle breezes rocking me I dream the dreams of earthlings, And how it used to be At night I sleep in Angel’s arms Their wings protecting me And moonbeams dance about us As stardust falls on thee So when your life on earth is spent, And you reach Heaven’s gate Have no fear of lonliness, For here, you know I wait. ~Anonymous~ Photos taken by Taylor Carpenter, Aumbre’s longtime foster mom. Design, Poem provided by Lisa Brewer, Angels foster
OPERATION INVISIBLE PAWS UPDATE Written and Shared by Alice McConkey Marus
(ATLANTA, GA) DATELINE: Friday, January 16, 2015 Today, an unprecedented rescue event occurred. This is a first in the history of ANGELS AMONG US PET RESCUE, INC. In one very long day, miracle after miracle happened. 40 dogs and 6 cats were rescued. 46 lives were saved. 46 given a new future. Very early Friday morning, 13 Angels Volunteers, 9 vehicles, dozens of crates and carriers began their almost 4 hour journey from Atlanta to a very small South Georgia town. All were met by His Honor the Mayor, the Administration of Animal Control, shelter staff and volunteers. Very quickly, everyone jumped into their assigned roles. An ANGELS AMONG US PET RESCUE Team Leader worked quickly with shelter staff, assigning dogs to vehicles, each with the destination of one of our fabulous intake Vets. Within 2 hours, 36 dogs and 6 cats were on their way to Atlanta. Back at home, over 100 Angel volunteers prepared for the arrival of our new dog and cat family members. 46 lives changed. 46 of God's beautiful creations given new hope. 46 new Angels. The reality of this project, Operation Invisible Paws, is now upon us. We have 46 animals who need examinations, vaccinations, microchips and eventually spayed or neutered. Additionally we have 2 young puppies out of that number who were found to be Parvovirus positive and have been taken to one of the finest 24 hour Emergency Veterinarian Hospitals. We all know how very expensive treatment for Parvo is. We need extra funding for these two sick pups. Please help, if you can, by donating at www.angelsrescue.org/donate/ In one day, we have saved so many but by doing so have created a need for a record amount of funding. We ask that Angels around the World join us in this monumental endeavor. Please reach very deep in your pockets and donate as much as you can.
In the next several days we'll be posting pictures and videos of our day in South Georgia and our 46 new Angel family members. The pictures below are just a few of many. You can choose to donate to a specific dog or cat. You can also give to the entire project, Operation Invisible Paws. If it's easier, just say "Paws" in the purpose line. Donate now to get all of these Angel babies vetted and off to a healthy life. NO AMOUNT TOO SMALL. Angel Friends, you have never ever let us down. We call on you now to help fund the greatest rescue event in Angels Among us Pet Rescue history. We're counting on you! PLEASE, PLEASE DONATE. To donate by credit card or PayPal, go to www.angelsrescue.org/donate/ Please enter “Operation Invisible Paws� in the purpose line so funds will go directly to their care. If you would like to send a check, you can do so. Our mailing address is: Angels Among Us Pet Rescue PO Box 821 Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 We still need Atlanta area Foster Homes for about 10 of our new Angel Dogs. Please join our foster team by filling out a foster application and submitting through our website at www.angelsrescue.org/foster/ If donations exceed expectations, any excess funds will be us to save additional homeless pets. To see the many photos and some video clips posted about this miraculous rescue, just google or look up on Facebook #operationinvisiblepaws
Welcome to our New Monthly Feature:
Confessions Of Living With A Dog Do you remember the wonderful Erma Bombeck and her unique, funny, way of retelling those crazy, everyday things that happened in her life, and how we all could relate? Welcome to the wonderful world of Julie O’Bryant. She does Erma one better as she shares the delicious and funny things that happen in the O’Bryant household with her two wonderful rescue dogs, Sparky and Rocky! And, of course, the family! Erma would be proud!
“The Things We Do for Beauty” Julie O’Bryant, Angels Publications
I have read long and detailed articles on the miracle substance of coconut oil, so thrifty me decided to try a simple beauty treatment. I coated my hair with a concoction of coconut oil and the smooshing of my palms. I like extra little something from my own, a little extra effort. I think everyone should have a little extra effort when attempting their own beauty treatments. So, I tied a cotton babushka to my oil slicked head and gingerly reclined to wait for my beautification to take place. I dreamed, a little. Surely, I would arise with tresses silky enough to toss them flirtily about, surely I would have tresses long enough to toss, even clumsily. I dreamed of....wait, my head is cold. It is cold, and OILY and cold and wet and lightly tousled and ..... On an aside, coconut oil is LOVED by dogs. They find it tasty, extremely so. And so, my two beasts , my BEASTS, the hounds of Baskerville, the late descendants of Cerberus decided to pounce upon my bed and sniff their way to my head, where they discovered the delicious coconut oil. And they began to lick and snuffle and generally remove most of the beneficial oils from my hair. So I arose and looked at the two beasts. And they looked at me and licked their chops. And I swear it's THEIR fur that seems shiny, glossy, tressy and flirtatious. Ah, well. At least “someone’s” hair is now beautiful. Julie O’Bryant is a member of the Angels Herald Publications team, a volunteer for AAUPR, and a two-time adopter of rescues Sparky and Rocky from Angels Among Us! She is an educator, a wife, a mom and a true animal lover.
Rescue- A Haiku Series by Kelli Harvey Snow falling on fur The city sleeps warm tonight
Life lingers little
A strangers approach Visions of a past breaking Forgotten no more
Alive a Rescue In big dreams live lofty goals Open hearts capture
I am your dog, and I have a little something I’d like to whisper in your ear... I know that you humans lead busy lives. Some have to work, some have children to raise. It always seems like you are running here and there, often much too fast, often never noticing the truly grand things in life. Look down at me now, while you sit there at your computer. See the way my dark brown eyes look at yours? They are slightly cloudy now. That comes with age. The gray hairs are beginning to ring my soft muzzle. You smile at me; I see love in your eyes. What do you see in mine? Do you see a spirit? A soul inside, who loves you as no other could in the world? A spirit that would forgive all trespasses of prior wrong doing for just a simple moment of your time? That is all I ask. To slow down, if even for a few minutes to be with me. So many times you have been saddened by the words you read on that screen, of other of my kind, passing. Sometimes we die young and oh so quickly, sometimes so suddenly it wrenches your heart out of your throat. Sometimes, we age so slowly before your eyes that you may not even seem to know until the very end, when we look at you with grizzled muzzles and cataract clouded eyes. Still the love is always there, even when we must take that long sleep, to run free in a distant land. I may not be here tomorrow; I may not be here next week.
Someday you will shed the water from your eyes, that humans have when deep grief fills their souls, and you will be angry at yourself that you did not have just “One more day” with me. Because I love you so, your sorrow touches my spirit and grieves me. We have NOW, together. So come, sit down here next to me on the floor, and look deep into my eyes. What do you see? If you look hard and deep enough we will talk, you and I, heart to heart. Come to me not as “alpha” or as “trainer” or even “Mom or Dad,” come to me as a living soul and stroke my fur and let us look deep into one another’s eyes, and talk. I may tell you something about the fun of chasing a tennis ball, or I may tell you something profound about myself, or even life in general. You decided to have me in your life because you wanted
a soul to share such things with, someone very different from you. And, here I am. I am a dog, but I am alive. I feel emotion, I feel physical senses, and I can revel in the differences of our spirits and souls. I do not think of you as a “Dog on two feet” — I know what you are. You are human, in all your quirkiness, and I love you still.
Now, come sit with me, on the floor. Enter my world, and let time slow down if only for 15 minutes. Look deep into my eyes, and whisper to my ears. Speak with your heart, with your joy and I will know your true self. We may not have tomorrow, and life is oh so very short. Love,
Your Dog
“SOMEBODY DO SOMETHING� THE ARMCHAIR DOG RESCUER Alex Andes, courtesy of www.positively.com Dog rescue is a dirty business. And I mean that literally. If you haven't been pooped on, haven't come home covered in dog hair, or haven't gone through a range of about 20 emotions in the span of a few hours--you're doing it wrong. It's a passion that can bring you the greatest joy, and can bring you to your knees just as easily. While I commend anyone who dedicates even a small part of their life to helping dogs in need, today I've got a bone to pick with the Photo by Kevin Lowery | www.kevinlowery.com people I like to call "armchair dog rescuers." These are the people that are usually the first to cast blame--typically on rescue groups, fellow rescuers, or animal shelter employees--and are the last to take proactive action themselves. The armchair dog rescuer often adopts the attitude of "somebody do something!" When you're on the front lines of the rescue world, this attitude is incredibly frustrating. Even working alongside all the people who are doing as much as they can, there comes a point when our hands are tied. Without the help of the general public, rescuers and adopters simply can't save every dog facing euthanasia at a shelter. Animal shelter workers and animal control officers take a verbal beating on a daily basis from people who believe that they are just out to "kill any dog that walks in the door." In the vast majority of cases, this couldn't be further from the truth. The real root of the problem starts with irresponsible pet ownership, especially a lack of spaying and neutering. (Note: This is a problem more specific with the United States than in other areas like the UK, where many pets are unaltered, but are safely contained at all times.) So instead of being an armchair dog rescuer who tells others to "save all of them" or to "just do something," try some of these alternatives that can truly make a difference in the lives of shelter dogs.
1. Give time or money to your local open-intake shelter or with a private rescue group. This is one of the biggest steps you can take to helping the dogs in your community. Find a shelter or rescue group near you and find out where you can best fill a need-- from fostering a dog to washing blankets and towels, there's something everyone can do. If you aren't able to volunteer, considering making a monetary donation or donating needed supplies. 2. Practice responsible pet ownership. Don't just talk the talk--walk the walk! Your pets should be up-to-date on vaccinations, should be wearing a collar and tags at all times, should be microchipped, and should be spayed and neutered. If you choose not to spay/neuter, please keep your pets safely contained and do not breed unless you're a licensed, responsible breeder. 3. Educate others about responsible pet ownership. Educating your family and friends about responsible pet ownership is an easy way to help keep dogs out of shelters. If you want to take the next step, join an outreach group in your community that focuses on low cost spay/neuters, or other pet-related causes. 4. Share dogs in need on social media--the right way. Social media has been instrumental in helping save lives in shelters, so don't think that I'm suggesting that all people who share dogs on social media are armchair dog rescuers. Sharing every single dog in a shelter with the all-caps heading "SOMEONE SAVE HIM!" is only going to deter your followers from really looking at the dogs you show. Find out any information you can about each dog you share, and don't blame the shelter workers or the full rescue groups who cannot help. 5. If you see a problem, take action. This might be the most important point I'd like to make. If you see an animal in immediate need of help, and you have the means by which to help, please take action. If you see a dog limping on the side of the road, stop to pick him up. If you find a lost dog shivering in the cold, take him in. If you don't do something, there is no guarantee anyone else will. While it might cause you some inconvenience in the short-term, you may never truly know the scope of the long-term impact your decision to take action could make. Dog rescue is exhausting, emotional work--but I can guarantee you'll never regret a minute of it.
Angels Videos Angels Among Us Pet Rescue has been very busy and in the news locally and nationally - and we wanted to share some of the news links and video with you, to see what we’ve been up to, and how Angels Among Us is spreading the good word about animal rescue in Georgia, the Nation, and the World! There are some amazing things happening in Media at Angels Among Us Pet Rescue, including a brand new music video called “Angels In The House” which is featured separately in this issue. Take a moment and watch the news reports about DENNY and DRUMMOND, our bonded pair of Cocker Spaniels - DENNY is blind and depends on his partner, Drummond, to help keep him safe as they play, walk around, and enjoy life as Angels Dogs! Adorable!! Please Note: several of these have advertisements at the beginning of the video...stay on the link and it will start automatically with the news features.
11Alive TV - Atlanta Station, NBC Affliate
http://www.11alive.com/story/life/ pets/2014/12/31/rescued-blind-dog-guidedog/21091315/
Angels Videos “FOX & FRIENDS - Weekend” TV Program
http://video.foxnews.com/v/3969965191001/ rescued-dog-acts-as-guide-dog-for-caninepal/?#sp=show-clips
ABCNEWS. Com (pictures and article)
http://abcnews.go.com/US/rescued-pup-actsguide-dog-canine-pal/story?id=27934030
STRAY What to do when you find a seemingly homeless pet Dinese LeBeau from Best Friends Animal Society http://angelsrescue.org/stray/
“ I found a stray...now, what do I do?” A question often asked by many who have a heart for animals seemingly lost and needing help, and one our Angels volunteers hear almost daily.
At Best Friends Animal Society, we care for thousands of animals each year. Many are dogs and cats who were separated from their families somehow and were brought to a shelter, where they remained unclaimed. Cats and dogs can become lost quickly for a variety of reasons, and even the most careful, thoughtful pet lovers can lose track of their pets. Cats are especially prone to becoming permanently lost once they are in the shelter system, so it’s important to take the right steps to successfully reunite them with the folks who love them.
If you find a stray pet, here are some simple but important tips to follow:
If the animal is without an ID tag, provide a temporary one that includes your name and phone. That way, if the pet gets lost a second time, there’s a good chance the animal will be returned to you.
If lost pets are on the run for weeks or months, they will be dirty, skinny and possibly flea-ridden, even though they might have escaped from a wonderful home. So, don’t assume that an animal has been neglected or abandoned just because he or she appears to be in rough shape.
Found animals should be taken to a local vet or shelter so they can be scanned for a microchip.
Check local regulations so you can be sure of your legal obligations if you find a homeless pet. Some municipalities allow you to keep the pet while you attempt to find the owner, while others require you to relinquish the pet. If you take the animal to a shelter, be sure to claim “first and last rights.” That means you can adopt the animal if he or she is unclaimed and due to be euthanized. It’s also a good idea to call the animal control facility daily to let people there know you are interested in the animal’s welfare.
Lost pets can travel some distance. Check the lost-and-found sections of the newspapers published in the surrounding area.Place “pet found” ads in newspapers. Pick out a few physical characteristics to include in the ad, and also let people know how to contact you. That way, when someone calls in, the animal can be readily identified.
Create flyers. Take a good photo, write a basic description and then use the free program at www.petbond.com to create lost pet flyers. As with the newspaper ads, leave out some information so you can ask specific questions of possible owners to help verify ownership.
Print out the flyers, attach them to brightly colored poster board and write “Found Cat” (or dog) in large black letters across the top.
Post flyers in the area where the animal was found, as well as on local business bulletin boards.
Email flyers to your friends, family and other people who live near you, as well as in surrounding areas. Post flyers across social media platforms and also look for lost pet resources by state on Facebook and other social media platforms. For more information visit:
http://bestfriends.org/News-And-Features/News/How-to-help-stray-animals/
Our Featured Rescued Dog This Month: Meet Mirielle and her Pups! Hi, there! They call me Mirielle, but I call myself a miracle…or maybe an early Christmas present! You see, I also got a little “Christmas miracle” myself. Pull up a chair and let me tell you about my crazy journey from being “nobody’s dog” to proudly wearing the label of “Angel doggie”. I was a good girl…really, I was! But somehow life worked against me and I wound up pregnant, not because I wanted to be…I had no one to help me stay a good girl by making sure I was spayed so I couldn’t have babies. You see, I’m only a young lady – barely a year old, so I wasn’t wanting to be a mommy so soon! Yet, there I was on a cold Saturday in a place they call a “shelter” that felt like anything but shelter to me, my belly fully distended with my growing babies inside, wanting to be born at any minute! I was about to give up hope when suddenly, this wonderful person appeared at my cage, talked kindly to me, and assured me that neither me nor my unborn babies would die in this cold, lonely place. WOW! How’s that for an early Christmas present? Just in the “nick” of time, old St. Nick sent an Angel to rescue me and my little bundles of fur just aching to be born! We would not die this Christmas! Even though, as you can see, I’m not a very big girl for my breed – around 32 lbs. and they call me some kind of Lab mix – but they took me away from that awful place directly to a wonderful, kind, vet who said it wouldn’t be long at all before my babies would be here! I was excited, but very very scared…where would we be going now? Would there be a kind person there to help me give birth? To hold my paw, and assure me everything would be okay? Well, that Christmas angel must have had one more shiny miracle in her pocket, because I met another wonderful human they called a “foster” who said she was going to take me home with her, and I’d have a warm, safe, cozy place all my own to have my babies! That’s what I call a real Christmas MIRACLE! Well, I went from a cold desolate shelter on Saturday, to the vet and then my foster home on Sunday, and then, guess what? Yep….you guessed it! I had my babies, all 8 of them, the very next day on the Monday before Christmas!
I gave birth to 2 females named “Joyful” and “Hollie”, and 6 stinky, wonderful little boys named “Drummer”, “Rudolph”, “Santa”, “Nicholas”, “Myrrh” and one they named “Frankincense” but I think I’ll just call him “Frank”. Aren’t my babies adorable? Just like me, Mom says! Now that I’ve told you about our Christmas miracles and my 8 little bundles of blessing, my foster mommy wants to tell you something about ME. I’m a bit on the shy side when it comes to talking about me….so this is what she said you should know: “Mirielle is the perfect little doggie and momma to her babies. She is, unfortunately, heartworm positive but once she has weaned her babies in a few weeks, she will be treated for them and will be much better once she’s through her treatment. After that, she will be spayed so she’ll never have to go through birthing another litter of puppies. She will also be microchipped and ready to go to her forever home and family. Mirielle is one of the calmest, most submissive and loving dogs I have ever fostered! She loves and adores getting affection and attention, and just wants to sit and cuddle with her human. She is non-destructive in the home, preferring to just be her sweet, loving self and be adored by her person. Mirielle would do best in a calm, quiet household with little noise and low-energy. This baby girl is so submissive and scared when first meeting new people, she immediately rolls onto her back in submission. We know by her behavior that she has been through some serious mistreatment somewhere in her past, but we have promised her that she will never have to worry about that again and that as an Angels girl, we will find her the best home and family possible to love and protect her forever.” If you would like to meet, or find out more about Mirielle, or her pups who are also up for pre-adoption and can go to their forever homes at 2-mos of age, please fill out an application form at www.angelsrescue.org/adopt/ or, to find out more about this precious young dog and how you can be her forever home, send an email to Inquiry@angelsrescue.org.
Angels’ Featured Rescued Cat This Month: Meet BRIGID! Brigid is the Kate Middleton of the kitty world. She is beautiful, well mannered, a classic girl and did we mention beautiful?!? Brigid was part of the Operation Invisible Paws rescue operation and basically spent all of her seven months of life in animal control. Royalty does NOT belong in a shelter and Brigid is looking for her soft, warm throne. Brigid is a medium-to-long haired girl who is friendly, purrs often and makes the cutest “trill” kitty sounds when she is looking for attention. I must warn you that Brigid is so cute that you may find her stealing your pillow at night, and your heart won’t care one bit! Brigid's adoption fee includes combo test, vaccinations (FVRCP, FeLV, rabies), spay, microchip, flea prevention & de-worming!
Browse all of our adoptable felines at www.angelsrescue.org/adopt. You can fill out an application in the same place! For inquiries, please send an email to catinquiry@angelsrescue.org. Be sure to check out and "like" our Facebook page Angels Among Us Pet Rescue - CATS.
Julie O’Bryant, Publications Team It’s also a joyful, scary, wonderful, terrifying commitment. A dog’s lifetime can be up to 12-15 years, depending on breed and health of the animal. The age of your adopted pet will determine how much time you will have together. Adopt a puppy, and you are in for a lifetime of love. Adopt a senior and you may receive years of devotion. Choosing to share your life with another is not to be taken lightly. When you choose to share it with a four footed, furcovered companion, there is always more to the story after the adopter and adoptee return home and begin their life together. This series of articles will chronicle the tales of adoptions from Angles Among Us, so you can share in the journey which doesn’t end with a joyful photo, but with the commitment of a lifetime. Let me begin, if I may, with my own adoption story. It begins with a boy and a dog. Don’t the best stories begin in such a way? In my case, the boy was my son. The dog was a mutt of undetermined pedigree, with pure golden eyes. I was lured into an adoption event with that most clichéd of phrases, “Just looking…”. I’m a dog person, and have been my whole life. Our family life had recently been altered by the death of our dog 18 months earlier. Without a dog, our life was in some ways frankly easier and in nearly every other way our life was emptier. So we were “looking”. “Just looking” Please remember that phrase. Enter boy. And dog. I was cooing over the puppies, whilst steeling my heart against their soft fur and endearing ways. Oh, you must be careful with puppies, they’ll steal your will and your heart with nary a second glance. But I was prepared, and casually met other candidates, all lovable and available. But my heart was not engaged. I turned and my boy was crouched by a dog, his hand cradling a furry face. Before my heart could hammer a warning, my eyes met the dogs. Gold like caramel with dark rims, they were arresting. The dog’s mouth opened in what could only be described as a grin. A crooked, curled tail wagged in a helicopter type motion, not back and forth – but around and around in a circle. My boy spoke, “What do you think?” and all I could do was feel.
Shaking myself back to reality, I reassessed. This dog had long fur, shepherd mix, he looked like a collie in his head structure, lab in his muscled body and that tail? The tail undulated in slow circles – mesmerizing me. And then, the eyes. The eyes that held mine as if to say, “Hello, I’m so relieved to see you. How do you do? I’m your dog.” And so the race was on…to the store to purchase bowl, food and a last minute splurge: a plush dog bed. I agonized over color and texture. I decided on a manly brown, but with luxurious pile. Then, the dash to my home ensued. The dog, named Sparky was on site at my home 1 hour later for a “home visit”. Lord, I was nervous. Me, who was “just looking”, was now intent on proving to a smiling Angel’s foster that I was worthy, that I was loyal, that I was ready for the commitment of a lifetime. All parties agreed, watching Sparky anoint every corner of my backyard, that this was a “go”. Then, the work began. First, I worried that my love for our previous dogs would keep me from being a devoted owner of this particular dog. Then, this particular dog laid his soft head against my foot and stared up at me. Well, that worry was out of the way. Then, I worried that having a responsibility at home would “cramp” my style. That was solved by Sparky jumping joyfully into my vehicle and accompanying me on errands. True I spent a small fortune on “supplies” for the car: water, water bottle, blanket in order to maintain Sparky’s perfect comfort, but you must make some sacrifices for the one you love. Speaking of sacrifices, there were no collateral damages for this dog: no gnawed shoes, no stolen items, no raiding of personal toiletries, however there was ONE issue, and it was HUGE. This adopted dog, in my home, under my guidance and protection had a problem. He was a “carboholic”. Undisclosed to me, indeed unknown to fosters, my beloved harbored an undeniable love of bread, plain sandwich bread. He would creep into the pantry, push aside the organic dog treats that I had purchased in a moment of madness and snag the Wonder Bread. Once I learned to place the bread on a higher level, then he seemed to accept that bread would be an occasional, high value treat. My dog, my Sparky, my companion is the first face I see through the window when I pull in the driveway He greets me with his tail wagging in its characteristic whirl, his mouth in a doggy grin, and his caramel eyes glowing with love. My heart? It grows and it warms in reply, every single time.
Congratulations, Peggy Rydberg! Peggy fosters, transports, and advocates for fostered pets - she is a true angel for her senior foster boy, Field Day!
Congratulations, Linda Parris! Linda fosters, volunteers on the Heartworm Team, and has opened her heart & home to so many pets!
Angels Videos The Making of “Angels In The House!” We are so excited, after what seems like an eternity between the concept meeting and that last, final edit to announce the worldwide launch of our 1st ever music video, “ANGELS IN THE HOUSE”. This project was the brainchild of one of our wonderful volunteers, Karen Dunkley, who dreamed of a way to put words and pen to paper, then to music and dance, to show how animal rescue is just as much fun, and more, than it is heartbreaking! Karen set about to find the right vehicle and partners to turn her dream into a reality and many months and scenarios later, came up with the perfect way to describe the process of what it’s like, and why it truly takes a large village of supporters, and volunteers/fosters, to do what Angels Among Us does everyday - rescue, transition and rehome precious voiceless pets who want nothing more than to have a home and family! As Karen’s lyrics say so beautifully, “CLICK, LIKE, and SHARE - so many lives at stake!” Please do WATCH, and SHARE the link and let us know how you like it!
ANGELS IN THE HOUSE VIDEO Angel’s YouTube Channel: http://youtu.be/CGkwkEBC1-U
Behind The Scenes - the making of “Angels In The House!” Here are some of the many pictures “behind the scenes” during the making our our music video. Can you spot a very famous “face” in the crowd? Such an incredible supporter of Angels Rescue! A very generous heart for the cause of animal rescue!
Thank You So Much!
Pictured above are Kevin and Millie Styles, along with Lance White - CEO of Angels Among Us
Angels Among Us Pet Rescue is so grateful for the $5,000 donation from Kevin’s company, LocumTenens.com and their Charitable Committee who graciously donate every year to several nonprofits in Atlanta. Millie is a volunteer with Angels, and also fosters for our Angels’ Cats team. Thank you so much, LocumTenens, for choosing Angels Among Us Pet Rescue as one of your charities this year!
Thank You So Much!
And the good news keeps on coming. Remember Sadie? She's been adopted!!!! Here she is in her new home already feeling at ease and getting all of the love she so deserves!
Angels Among Us Pet Rescue has been so blessed to be near and dear to the wonderful hearts of the owners and customers of FIDO’S MARKET, and we're always excited to partner with them. In December, we were a Pennies for Paws recipient, and they raised over $420! But they are even more excited to share the news about their Giving Tree program. They focused on helping our "Boarding Dogs," - those who didn't have a home or family to be with for the holidays. Fido’s Market customers donated money, toys, blankets, treats and chews valued at over $1,600! Their total donation was over $2,000! Fido’s Market - you guys ROCK!
Business Donors, and Supporters! In this issue of the Angels Herald, we would like to thank the following businesses and corporations for going above and beyond in supporting Angels Among Us Pet Rescue with their generous donations and support! We could not do this without you! How YOU Can Help!
All That Glitters - Glamorous Home and Holiday DĂŠcor Be-Ev.com, LLC
Sign up for our monthly donation subscription:
Blackhawk Capital
Furry Friends - $10
Hiscox Foundation USA, c/o The Northern Trust Company
Silver Whiskers - $25
LocumTenens.com
Dantes Circle One
Pearce Family Foundation
Gold Collars - $50
Petco Foundation Pinnacle Cabin Rentals, Inc.
Platinum Paws - $100
Raydeo Enterprises, Inc.
Angels Among Us - $250 Visit our website for details! www.angelsrescue.org/donate
Roney Family Foundation Shelley’s Crittercare Pet Sitting South Forsyth Volleyball Booster Club West GA Regional Antique Automobile Club of America
Angels Among Us Pet Rescue, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing dogs and cats from high-kill shelters in North Georgia. We operate through a network of foster homes in the Metro Atlanta area. Our efforts are funded by tax-deductible contributions from compassionate people and organizations who care and want to help make a difference.
ANGELS AMONG US PET RESCUE, INC. PO BOX 821 ALPHARETTA, GA 30009 Fax: Email: Website:
(877) 969-8669 info@angelsrescue.org www.angelsrescue.org
Thank You So Much! In this issue of the Angels Herald, we would like to thank the following individuals for going above and beyond in their very generous donations and support! It takes a village! Michael McMenamin – Angel of the Month Emmit Luther Carmen Maxey Marn Larsen-Ball Adam Rothman Ann Badding Richard Slugoski Donna Brewer Shelley Janashek Carole Trulio Mary Rook Terrell Miller Susan Rodgers Tracey Carragher John Sammons Lauren Kemper Orr Patricia Hebb Anne Long Rachel McGhee Patricia Morton Vicki Benjamin Robin Winters Grace Pavlath Andrea McKenzie Rita Anderson Trevah Panek Marsha Wagner Mary Berry Kristine Elliot Pati Hensley Debra Register David English Betty Ballentine Leslie Popp Heather Hayes Deborah Cohen Peter Triolo Leanne Standley Patrick Riley Angela Hurd Anita Chastain Helena Lamont Neil Axelrod
Janet Katz Bill and Jill Teberg Janice Sykes Theresa Dunbar Kristen Drapesa Amanda Conley Bobbi Moody Alice Hinterschied Lauren Leneis Paula Sherman Courtney Harrison Rachel Geller Alan Coleman EJ Taylor T L Usher Suzonne Underwood Leigh Sandridge Louise McAlpin Brian Douglas Regina Henderson Jill Shure Lallie Douglas Diana Nazaroff Renee Haupt Andra Ellis Molly Farmer Carly Steele-Bowley Sydne Rossouw Benjamin Parsons Nicole Spradley Reba Gantz Maura Neill Jody Miller Carolyn Halliday Beth DeHaemers Doug Markott Carina Tan Bonnie Robbins Patricio Montalbetti Scott Shickler Michele Rotter
Megan Schroyer Judy McCall Tonia Barton Erin Henderson Debbie Gibson Suzanne Bulat Lori Goins Martin Weinberg Kathleen Parks Sherry Harris Laura King Bobbie Dandrea Nicole Griffee-Zuniga Nathan Hamiel Valerie Craig Katherine Graves Kendhal johnson Ann Ostrander Jodi Pharis Kimberly Harris Wanda Adams Gregory Ellis Rose Ann Bobak Patricia Penrod Sandra Kitchens Nina Hockenbery Julie Gross Jan Harralson Jessica Henshaw Linda Manuel Jeffrey Mason Cybil Medley Susan Welborn Danielle Constable Toni Petrillo Bobbie Cohen Patti Lee M Emami Langroodi Rebecca Hollaway Angela Roach Judith Hartzell Candace Moore
Anne Ramee Constance Ellington James Whitaker Robin Patterson Philip Kupersavage Nikki Sanchez Debra Pack Heather Albertelli Rebecca Diamond Sally Marks Jean M Preston Sally Watson MaryEllen Svaren Pamela Akerson Alexandra Geist Scott Roberts Teri Meinzer Maria Cristiano Beth Plumley Andrew Smith Nanette Smith Kristin moore Tracey Shelton Shelly Hammack Trish Dresser David Geller Rebecca Segrest David Souerwine Kelli Greenway Susan Skrabanek Kathleen, Bryan Batson Geraldine Caldwell Pamela Jayne Gonyaw Kay Brautgam, Steven Kaye Kathleen Richards Patrick Riley Rosa Sangaline-Asbury Dorothy Sheffield Ellen Starr Catherine Wong Ronald, Rebecca Wray
How YOU Can Help! Sign up for our monthly donation subscription: Furry Friends - $10 Silver Whiskers - $25 Gold Collars - $50 Platinum Paws - $100 Angels Among Us - $250 Visit our website for details! www.angelsrescue.org/donate
Fun with Dogs and Cats!
Brought to you by Lance’s Jewelry Located at 1705 Market Place Boulevard, Cumming, GA 30041 www.lancesjewelry.com
Rescue ONE Until There Are NONE
To find an Angels Adoption Event near you, click here: https://www.facebook.com/angelsrescue/events