Fall 2015
25 celebrating
years
GRR SEVANearly 1800 EAT Golden Retrievers Rescued
Puttin’ on the Ritz • Golden Retriever Rescue Activity • The Intake Process • Update on Blondie
CONTENTS GRREAT Times is a quarterly publication of SEVA GRREAT, Inc., an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding homes for homeless Golden Retrievers.
3 .. President’s Message 5
For more information, call our Hotline at 757-827-8561 or visit our web site at www.sevagrreat.org. To contact the newsletter editor with suggestions, comments, or send materials and photos for inclusion, send an e-mail to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com, or write Attn.: Newsletter Editor, PO Box 8014, Yorktown, VA 23693. SEVA GRREAT disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors.
4 .. Adoptions 5 .. Rescue Activity
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8 .. Homecoming Picnic
Submitting Stories and Photos We have decided to make “homecoming” a feature in each newsletter to feature dogs that have been adopted from us over the years. Send us a picture (identify everyone in it, please) with your dog’s name, when you adopted it, your name and a few words or more about your dog. Full length stories are welcomed, too!
6 .. An Update from Blondie
10 .. Time for A Long Nap
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12 .. Homecoming 14 .. The Intake Process
When you submit your pictures for publication in print, please submit an original digital image of no less than 300 dpi. If you aren’t sure of the dpi, send the original and we’ll check the possibility for use. We can make pictures smaller but we can not make them larger. Don’t worry about the file size; if you can send it, we can receive it. If you can’t send it, let us know. We’ll show you a way that it can be sent.
15 .. A Rescue with Personality 16 .. Golden Retriever Lifetime Study
Email to: grreattimes@adoptagolden.com
18 .. Crate Training 19 .. Rainbow Bridge 20 .. Puttin’ on The Ritz
20 21 .. Keepsake Bear
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22 .. Contributions fostering@adoptagolden.com 2
ON THE COVER: Ritzy is our star performer in the Senior Spotlight found pn page 20.
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR Saturday, November 21 Light Up The Town Parade Virginia Beach, VA Saturday, December 12 Toyland Parade Yorktown, VA Check our website for updates and exact locations and times of events. adoptagolden.com Check back a week before the event to confirm.
President’s Message
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reetings and thanks to all of our SEVA GRREAT supporters! For those that know me well, you understand that public speaking and writing articles is not my strength. So instead of writing my own article, I want to share this update from Golden Retriever News. SEVA GRREAT is one of nearly 100 Golden Retriever rescues in the US, and we report our activity to the National Rescue Committee annually. The article on page 5, written by NRC chair Carol Allen, is a good summary of the trends in Golden Retriever rescue nationally. Like most rescues, our intakes have decreased while veterinary expenses rise, given the special needs of so many of our dogs. Yet we are so thankful to have supporters ready and willing to help our precious Goldens. SEVA GRREAT remains financially healthy and in good position to continue our mission. I will soon be finishing my “second term” as President, and look forward to remaining involved with the rescue. We will be recruiting some new board members for 2016, so look for more details on available positions in a separate article. When I say, “We can’t do this work without you,” it is heartfelt and true. Thank you for your ongoing support! –Jane Krom
Send Us Your Photos
Call for Candidates
We would love to see what you are doing. Share your pictures, including captions, by sending them to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com.
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GRREAT ADS GRREAT Times is now offering advertising space. Rates per issue for various size ads are: Full Page = $150 1/2 Page = $100 1/3 Page = $75 1/6 Page = $50 A discounted rate for multiple issue placement is available Email requests, size and specification questions to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com. Every effort will be made to put your ad in the desired issue.
re you looking for a way to get more involved with SEVA GRREAT? We are currently seeking candidates for two open Board positions – Vice President and Board Member at Large (Fundraising). The Vice President partners closely with the President to ensure the mission of our rescue is met. The VP also works on special projects and is available to assume the duties of President if he/she is not available. The Board Member at Large (Fundraising) is responsible for seeking out new opportunities to raise funds for the rescue as well as executing current initiatives. Each of these positions has a one-year team that would become effective January 1, 2016. The Board meets monthly through a combination of in-person and teleconference meetings. The commitment also includes time in between meetings for email and phone correspondence as well as attendance at SEVA GRREAT events when possible. If you’re interested in learning more about these opportunities, please contact Jane Krom at president@adoptagolden.com.
GRREAT Times is published quarterly the second week of January, April, July, and October. Deadline for submitting an AD is the 1st of the month prior to the publication date.
FALL 2015
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Adoptions
Bentley
Max
Freedom/Fred
Princess
Tassie
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Ritzy
Cooper(1)
Izzy
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
Bentley – Carie Dale Freedom/Fred – Hettie Norlund Tassie – Veronica and John Sumner Izzy – Kathryn and Steve Flowers Max – Cathy and Nelson Hoyt Princess – Donna Thompson and Janet White Cooper (1) – Mary Neagele Toby – Sheryl and Larry Bonner Ritzy – Kristen Goldback and Larry Ehmer Cooper (2) – Lisa Masternack and Jo Porter Sam/Duke – Robert Bennett Woody – Dennis and Cheryl Trahan Breezie – Joyce and Richard Moaratty Shelby – Elizabeth and Brad Scaggs
Toby
Cooper (2)
2014
Golden Retriever Rescue Activity Reprinted with permission from Golden Retriever News
E Sam/Duke
Woody
Breezie
ighty-five Golden Retriever Rescue organizations reported their activity for 2014. Nine programs declined to participate and four others are considered “referral,” meaning they function by linking available dogs with interested people without first legally accepting the dogs for care into their programs. A total of 8,009 dogs were accepted by these 85 programs, ranging from one dog to over 400. This represents an almost 9 percent decrease over 2013. At the same time, over $6,000,000 in veterinary costs in 2014 is fairly consistent with 2013, except that the per dog veterinary cost rose to $753 per dog, which represents a 12 percent increase over the similar data for 2013. For total program costs, the increase was 20 percent per dog higher in 2014 than in 2013. On average, one program a year converts to the “facility model” from the “foster home model,” and it is well understood that this is because facilities are impossible to operate without paid staff and structure costs (e.g. purchase, maintenance, etc.), resulting in higher total costs for those programs with facilities. Likely the most significant data for readers of Golden Retriever News will be this: where have the purebred Goldens gone? In 2013, 6,274 purebred Goldens were rescued and rehomed. In 2014, 5,536 purebred Goldens were rescued, reflective of a 12 percent decrease. And this level of decrease has been apparent over the last several years. At the same time, 90 percent of our programs report that they have more qualified adoption applicants than
they have Goldens available for adoption. Why is this the case? Perhaps, and ideally, it can be assumed that public awareness has increased, thanks to public education, and that people are making wiser choices about their readiness and ability to add a dog to their household. That would certainly be one positive reason for the decline. Unfortunately, though, the increased use of outlets, such as craigslist.org, as a quick and easy way of “disposal” clearly affects the decrease in numbers. Our biases tell us that a rescue program is a safer, kinder way of rehoming a dog than craigslist, although not as quick. Also, shelters are increasingly able to place Goldens without contacting Golden Retriever Rescue programs. Nearly all of our programs report that a Golden comes from a shelter to them only if the dog is senior, ill or with behaviors causing adoption to be problematic. While adoption fees vary, in no case do these fees come close to covering even the veterinary costs and certainly not the total program costs. Managing a program, no matter the model, is not without cost. Merchandise sales, fundraising events and donations from local supporters make a tremendous difference. And the programs often and sincerely express their gratitude to the Golden Retriever Foundation and its various rescue-related activities. We often say “rescue takes many forms.” So does breed loyalty. Support of rescue work is just as much breed loyalty as is quality breeding, conformation and performance events. We are proud to display our breed loyalty.
Shelby
FALL 2015
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An Update from“Blondie” W
ell it has been a year since I was adopted into my “forever home,” and I have so many things to share about my new parents. I live in a home where I am loved by my “Mom,” “Dad,” two “Brothers,” two cats and two birds. When I first arrived I didn’t know what to think of the birds as they can make these awful high pitch sounds, but I soon learned they can be trusted to let me know when my parents are coming home or we are having visitors. They sometimes throw me some tasty treats from their cages, but I have learned not to go to close to them as they have sharp beaks and will bite my nose if I get into “their” space. As for the cats, well one of them is nice and shy like me, but the other is very bossy and has declared that I shall not enter his personal space, so I don’t. We all love to go sit at “Dad’s” feet when he sits on the couch. Sometimes I even try to get up on his lap, but he doesn’t like that I think. He tells me get down, yet he smiles and laughs when I give him the squint eye. It is very confusing.
I throw them up in the air and play catch with myself! There are lots of squirrels in the trees where I live, but try as I might I have not been able to catch one! I have discovered these large bugs my mom calls circada. They are big and make funny sounds. I love to pick them up and feel the funny vibration they make in my mouth. Oh yeah, they taste good too if you chew on them for awhile!! This spring my family went on lots of trips, most of which I attended. I hate it when they leave me for even a few hours. I cry and shout out a wooo wooo wooo sound when they return so they know I don’t like being left. One time we spent the night in a strange place. There was this room where the doors open and people magically appear and disappear. At first I was scared to go into this room so Mom had to carry me. The room started to move and that was really scary. Then the doors opened and we were in a brand new place. I finally got used to that room, my parents called an elevator. It was worth
My Mom takes good care of me. She lets me go everywhere with her, even to work. I have my own space and my own bed to lie on while Mom is working. She has lots of coworkers that love on me every day. At lunch time I get to come out of my space and hang out with everyone. Usually I beg for food or try to raid the trash can, but I am not often successful because my Mom keeps a good eye on me. She says my blood sugars have been pretty good since she changed my insulin type not long after she adopted me. I grew out a thick long coat, with long hair on the back of my legs, something my foster Mom says I never did. My mom is back to checking my sugar levels frequently again, as she says my numbers have been off, but I feel just fine. I love to run and run around our big yard. My family gives me lots of soft toys and I like to play fetch with them. When I am left alone
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
getting into as it meant my parents didn’t leave me when they went on trips. My Mom says she wants to get me trained so I can become a therapy dog one day. She says I am so good with kids and I love people so much and would be good at making people feel better. I just have to learn a few more manners first. I have already learned some cool tricks, like shaking hands and giving hugs when asked. I want to be able to hop on the bed and sleep next to Mom but Dad says No. My brother lets me on his bed at night and that is nice but I still prefer to be in the room with my Mom and Dad. Sometimes my parents don’t go to bed on time and I have to bark at them and nudge them till they finally get the hint that I am tired and we all need to get some sleep. Well, I better go for now, I hear food filling my bowl and I don’t want to miss dinner! See ya! Love, Blondie
SEVA GRREAT is now a member of the Kroger Community Rewards Program! Detailed instructions for enrolling:
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o participate, register your Kroger Plus Card online at krogercommunityrewards.com. Our organization number is 88542 (or you can search on the name -- they have us listed as SEVA-GREAT). If you don't have a Kroger Plus Card, they are available at customer service in any Kroger store. For each purchase to count, remember to swipe your registered Kroger Plus card or use the phone number that is related to your card when shopping. Our first reward from Kroger is on its way... let's register some new members, let's keep on shopping, and as always THANK YOU for all you do for our Goldens!
• Click on Sign In/Register Most participants are new online customers, so you must click on SIGN UP TODAY in the ‘New Customer?’ box. • Sign up for a Kroger Rewards Account by entering ZIP code, clicking on your favorite store, entering your email address and creating a password, agreeing to the terms and conditions • You will then get a message to check your email inbox and click on the link within the body of the email. • Click on My Account and use your email address and password to proceed to the next step.
• Click on Edit Kroger Community Rewards information and input your Kroger Plus card number. • Update or confirm your information. Enter NPO number (88542) or name of organization (SEVA-GREAT), select organization from list and click on confirm. • To verify you are enrolled correctly, you will see SEVA-GREAT's name on the right side of your information page. REMEMBER, purchases will not count until after you register your card. Do you use your phone number at the register? Call 800-576-4377, select option 4 to get your Kroger Plus card number.
FALL 2015
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Striking the pose Just hanging around
Beth and Max
Our Homecoming
Cuteness on the road 8
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
Three of the four Golden/Great Pyrenees mix puppies that came in last year remembered each other and had a great time romping together.
Hey! Lew’s got something good
A happy girl
Liz and Lacey
Donna and Nadi
Picnic FALL 2015
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Time for A Long Nap
by Quan Li
By 9pm, we knew Codie could unlock the crate by just a few kicks. By 11pm, we moved Ginger to different room so that she could get some sleep, as Codie was doing cartwheels on our bed. To everyone’s surprise, Codie was such a good sleeper. He slept through the night next to my pillow and did not even move once.
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ast year on November 7th, our foster coordinator Katie asked if anyone could foster a young mixed golden, named Codie. At the time, I was unable to make the commitment due to some other plans; but, this was an urgent intake, so I agreed to hold him till the 19th, as this would allow Katie some time to secure a foster home for Codie. Prior to coming to the shelter, Codie was a stray. A shelter volunteer took Codie home for 10 days, and wrote the following comments:
dogs were walking, sniffing, and everything looked wonderful. However, the next few hours were quite different; it was combination of panic, shock, entertainment, and exhaustion! By 6pm, we knew Codie was a fence jumper. By 8pm, I posted a picture of Codie on the kitchen counter on Facebook (pic 1 ), titled “Pray for me”
“He is doing great indoors with a terrier and a pitbull. They have zero problems with him indoors with bathroom issues or anything else. However when he is left alone in the house, he is a chewer so he will need to be crated when left alone at home.“ When I arrived to the vet office, everyone there was totally in love with Codie, and they all told me what a sweetheart he was. The ride home was uneventful. Once we got home, my husband and I took Ginger and Codie for a walk, and the introduction between them was great. The next thing was to let Codie explore the house and backyard with his leash on. Then I took Codie’s leash off, and I sat on the deck and watched them for 20 minutes. Both 10
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
The next 48 hours was over a weekend, so we got to know Codie a bit more. He was very social, friendly, and so huggable (pic 2 ). Ginger barked at him a lot (her thoughts were, someone has to keep this pup in line if Mom cannot do it), but it did not bother Codie a bit and he never barked back to her once. Codie did not know any commands but was excellent at ‘come.’ After 2 hours of walking in the park, he actually took a nap (pic 3 )! So that was encouraging.... he can be worn out! We immediately started basic training and he was a really quick learner. But between training, walking and napping, Codie was constantly looking for trouble. Codie jumped into neighbor’s yard while I was holding his
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2 leash. He also knew how to open the car window all the way so we had to use the child safety lock. We could not leave him alone, not even for a minute. Codie was neutered the following Monday, and came home on Tuesday evening. Once he was inside in the house, he started running full speed. Ginger and I each blocked a set of stairs but we could not stop him in time -- his incision area became totally bruised. I put him in his crate and supplied him with unlimited chewies, toys and entertainment. Now, we had to keep him on his leash inside the house too. Prior to Codie, I had fostered 14 dogs for SEVA GRREAT. Some of them were considered challenging, but their cases all now look like piece of a cake, compared to this one. Codie is really a great dog and so sweet, he will make a family very happy one day, but that day seemed so far away. A few days later, Katie found a foster home for Codie. Deb, one of my friends, a GRREAT volunteer, had seen all the pictures/stories of Codie I posted, and did not mind to go extra miles for this rascal. SEVA GRREAT dogs are truly the luckiest! After handing Codie to Deb, I took a very long nap. My dog Ginger slept from 3pm to the next morning, and didn’t even get up for her dinner. Watch for the further adventures of Codie in future issues of GRREAT Times magazine.
FALL 2015
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Molly and Riley graciously allow Hope to dominate the dog bed; such generous dogs! –Roni Sumner
Ginger and Bailey at Dude Ranch Our newly adopted Vinny (formerly Schooner) immediately fit into our family and loves playing with his new brother, Jordy. Many thanks to SEVA GRREAT for bringing him to us, and to Kayla and Chris for being awesome fosters and showing him so much love. –Susan & Butch Beckman
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
Share T
Riley and Molly
HOME COMING
This is Woody, who is shown with a tennis ball, that Dennis and Cheryl Trahan adopted on August 13, 2015. Woody is six years of age. Woody was fostered for one month by Di Hayes, and his home evaluator was Barbara Smith.
e your pictures and stories by sending them to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com. They will be featured in coming newsletters, right here under Homecoming.
Bernie has been our baby since we adopted him from SEVA GRREAT back in 2010. He will soon be promoted to big brother! –Brittany Hencken
My name is Murphy Lange, one of Luna’s pups at 2 years old.
FALL 2015
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Intake Process for Getting Goldens to SEVA W
ith the increased use of social media to help animals in need, we wanted to provide a few suggestions/requests on how to best facilitate getting a Golden to SEVA GRREAT. With the tremendous networking provided, there is no doubt social media has successfully helped many dogs, and we are glad there are so many people out there helping us identify Goldens in need. But in our particular situation, use of social media to share goldens can sometimes backfire and result in extra work. The best thing you can do if you find out about a dog in need is to email the information to intake@adoptagolden.com. Our intake coordinator monitors her SEVA GRREAT email 7 days a week, and also checks
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phone hotline messages daily. She does not monitor the SEVA GRREAT Facebook page (although any intake messages are forwarded by our FB coordinator). Personal email addresses and Facebook pages may not be monitored daily, so the message could “sit” for a day or so without being seen. Additionally, we may get multiple emails and shared Facebook posts to various board members/volunteers about the same dog, which then get funneled back to intake resulting in many duplicate emails. By using the centralized intake email address, we can help in a timely manner and be certain no dog is overlooked.
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
We focus efforts on our coverage area of southeastern and central Virginia and small parts of northeastern North Carolina, given the location/availability of our volunteers. We do not generally pull dogs from shelters in other states, unless another rescue asks us to help. Thankfully, there are nearly 100 Golden rescues covering the US, and they work just as we do to monitor dogs in their area. That does not mean you can’t share a dog in another state if you are worried . . . the rescues all work together, and we will happily share with the nearest Golden rescue to be sure they are aware. Craigslist dogs present another challenge that
GRREAT red flag which causes concern that the dog may have significant behavior issues or a bite history.
we continue to work through. For a variety of reasons, we and other rescues rarely have success getting dogs from Craigslist but continue to try. Despite our outreach and education to posters, most fail to see the benefits of rescue. Sadly, many ignore our calls or emails if they realize we are a rescue, which is very discouraging to us all. They seem unaware of the potential of someone “flipping” and reselling the dog, or worse yet
being used for bait training. They often need/want money because of financial needs, and feel a rehoming fee somehow ensures a good home. They also may want to “know” and maintain a relationship with the family, vs. relinquishing to rescue. We have also learned that some don’t want to take the time to fill out our intake screening, a process that is essential to ensuring a safe intake and successful adoption. This is a
Bottom line is that we truly appreciate all of your support, and encourage you to share goldens in need to intake@adoptagolden.com. While you may not receive a personal reply, please be assured that we will indeed follow up, as this is the heart of our mission. And if you have any additional questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact any board member. Our contact information is on the website www.adoptagolden.com under the “contact us” tab.
A Rescue with Personality O
ur Max has quite a personality and it comes forth a little bit more each day! Things we have learned about him so far:
1. He loves full body message, but especially loves having his feet rubbed. 2. Loves when Mama cleans his eyes and paws with cool water. 3. He is smart and has learned to hide his ball in the bushes so Charlie doesn’t steal it when he goes off to do his business. 4. Would eat a frog if I didn’t pull it out of his mouth. 5. Loves hiking. 6. Loves laying in front of his mini fan on the cool floor. 7. He likes his brother Charlie, even though he keeps stealing his toys. Maybe not quite a love affair yet, but we are getting there. 8. Loves when we come home from work and give him lots of love. 9. Loves to go in the litter box for a treat! Must be vigilant about keeping the door locked. Boy-o! We are lucky to have this sweet boy and to have our Charlie and Sadie. My cup runneth over!!
–Cathy Hoyt SUMMER 2015
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SPOTLIGHT ON RESCUE
Rescued Goldens Participate in the Golden Retriever D
r. Michael Guy of the Morris Animal Foundation described for me the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study while attending the National Specialty in St. Louis in 2012, and together we discussed how, and even if, rescued Goldens would be able to enroll in the study. It was clear early on that the number would be small: while study requirements of the dog’s being under age two and healthy would be easier to meet, the need for the three-generation pedigree proved thhighest hurdle.
Ten rescued Golden Retrievers are enrolled in and participate in the study today. Each has a story to be told and all are fortunate that the “rest of their lives” began early.
provided the necessary AKC information so that a pedigree could be obtained. Jake was adopted by Rick and Yanna, and they enrolled him in the GRLTS. Thank you, Hero Jake.
“Chloe” was accepted by Golden
“Daisy” was rescued by Ted Koerner
Such pedigree documentation comes to our programs with very, very few of the Goldens accepted, and not at all with Goldens coming into our program via shelters. Even those surrendered by owners rarely had “papers,” much less pedigree information. But even if the number were to be small, we believed we should try to contribute. After all, such diseases are “equal opportunity” diseases.
Gulf Coast Golden Retriever Rescue at 12 weeks when a child of the heartbroken owner developed severe allergic reactions to the pup. Adopted by James and Marla Armstrong, Lily Rose quickly demonstrated excellent obedience aptitude and will soon join her “sister,” Zoe, as a Canine Assisted Therapy Dog. Lily Rose was a Team Captain for the South Florida Morris Animal Foundation K9 Cancer Walk. Thank you, Hero Lily Rose.
Rescuers of Golden Retrievers joined the volunteer effort initiated by the Morris Animal Foundation. Primarily they were: Yvette Puskarich of Gulf Coast Golden Retriever Rescue, Janet Gray of Golden Retriever Rescue of Central New York, and Debbie Pietro of Golden Retriever Rescue of Southern Nevada. Accomplishments were: organizing and participating in parades and walks promoting the study; canvassing local veterinarians to make sure they were aware of the study; participating in conferences, such as veterinary conferences; and making sure that other Golden Retriever Rescue programs were aware of the study and how to enroll.
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Retriever Rescue of Southern Maryland and adopted by Rob and Becky Minnich, who said, “It is a privilege to be in this study and possibly be able to save Goldens in the years to come.” Thank you, Hero Chloe.
“Lily Rose” was surrendered to
“Lincoln” came to Love A Golden
Rescue of St. Louis in utero, for mom was a refugee from a puppy mill. He was whelped in the home of Jan and Ray Knoche, cared for there and adopted by them. It was unusual that AKC information for both sire and dam came with the mom, and thus a pedigree could be obtained from the AKC. Lincoln is now a much-loved family member and a GRLTS participant. Thank you, Hero Lincoln.
“Jake” was surrendered to Arizona
Golden Retriever Connection, and the owner
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
while he was volunteering for Forever Friends of California, and the dog-human connection was immediate and total. “All my life I have dreamed of knowing unconditional love and boundless joy,” he said. From Russian and Danish lineage, with the necessary documentation, Daisy is a first-generation American. Ted and Daisy are so proud of participating in the GRLTS. Thank you, Hero Daisy.
“Edgar” was surrendered to As Good As Gold Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois at the age of 19 months by a commercial breeder who no longer wanted him. Edgar, while fearful, seemed “hopeful, of high spirits and interested in people.” As a result of 19 months of little or no movement, his legs were weak and running was strange to him. But he overcame thesedeficiencies and soon, as he blossomed, the GRLTS was mentioned for him. Pedigree information was able to be obtained and he was enrolled. Thank you, Hero Edgar.
“Molly” was surrendered to Gulf Coast
Golden Retriever Rescue at the age of 11 weeks by a loving senior couple who realized that Molly’s activity level far exceeded theirs. She was fostered and then adopted by Steven and Sandy Stevens who adore her, refer to her as the “Golden Diva” and enrolled her in GRLTS. Thank you, Hero Molly.
Lifetime Study “Leilani” was surrendered by a
breeder at age 10 weeks to Arizona Golden Retriever Connection. Leilani was born with a rare birth defect. She was most likely an embryonic twin and, unfortunately, ended up with one deformed rear leg. The rescue program took responsibility for the surgical amputation of the leg, and Leilani recovered and was adopted by Lisa and Brenda. Pedigree information was available, and Leilani was enrolled in the GRLTS. Thank you, Hero Leilani.
by Carol Allen, Chair National Rescue Committee 315-469-7926 email: carosal@twcny.rr.com
“Micah” was accepted by Golden
Retriever Rescue of Southern Maryland in his first year and was quickly adopted by Steve and Robin Heinecke. Necessary documentation was available, and Micah was enrolled in the GRLTS. Thank you, Hero Micah.
“Sugar” was accepted by Golden Retriever Rescue ofSouthern Maryland and was fostered by and soon adopted by Terri Robinson, who said, “Sugar
represents the breed proudly, obediently and enthusiastically and I have pledged to participate in the study throughout her lifetime, which I hope is many, many years.” Thank you, Hero Sugar. We’re proud of our heroes and the rescuers, all heroes too, who have promoted participation in the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study.
FALL 2015
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Crate Training: The Benefits for You and Your Dog by Sherry Woodard Best Friends animal behavior consultant
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hy should I consider crate training my dog?
Dogs are hard-wired by their genetic history to be den animals. A den is a small, safe, welldefined space. It is a place in which dogs feel instinctively safe. It is also a place that they instinctively avoid soiling. The combination of these two native traits are what make crate training, done in the right way, a kind and effective component in house-training your new puppy or dog. A crate can also be a place for your dog to rest or have “down time.” If you have just acquired a dog, a crate can limit access to the entire house until your new dog knows the house rules. A crate can help with house-training by setting up a routine. For example, you can feed the puppy in the crate and, afterwards, carry him or walk him on a lead straight out to an elimination site where you can use a word or phrase to remind the dog what the trip outside is for. There are other benefits of crate training. At some point in your dog’s life, it may be necessary to use a crate when you are traveling with your pet or when your dog is recuperating from an injury. Such potentially traumatic situations will be much less stressful if your dog is already familiar with and comfortable in a crate. Crates are also useful for keeping destructive dogs out of mischief when you’re not home to keep an eye on them. 18
Photo courtesy of www.goldendailyscoop.com/2015/03/the-benefits-of-crate-training.html
Where do I purchase a crate and how do I know which one to buy? Most pet-supply stores carry dog crates; pet catalogs sell them as well. Considerations when buying your crate: Make sure the crate is big enough so that the dog can stand up, turn around and lay flat on his side in comfort, but small enough that there isn’t enough room for the dog to sleep and eat at one end and eliminate at the other. If you are training a growing puppy, you can buy a larger crate with a divider for adjusting the crate as he grows. How do I introduce the crate? You can prevent problems with crate training by setting your dog up for success. Your dog should only associate good things with the crate, so start by putting treats and/or toys in the crate and encouraging him to go in. Some dogs may need to warm up to the crate slowly. If your dog is afraid to go in, place a treat in the crate as far as he is willing to go. After he takes the treat, place another treat a little further back in the crate. Keep going until he is eating treats at the very back, then feed him his next meal in the crate with the door open, so that he can walk in and out at will. Crate training a fearful dog can take days, so be patient and encouraging. If a crate is properly introduced and used, your dog will happily enter and settle down. Should the crate be used at night? Sure, you can use the crate at night. Put the dog in with a treat and a cue like “kennel” or “kennel up” delivered in a cheery tone of
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
voice. The crate should be situated close to you so that you can hear the dog whine or whimper if he needs to eliminate during the night. (Dogs will usually make some kind of noise rather than make a mess where they sleep.) If you are training a puppy, be prepared for one or two trips outside at night to eliminate. If the puppy goes outside and doesn’t produce, do not allow any extra time for play or long drinks of water when you come back inside. Instead, encourage the pup to return to the crate. He may whine a bit, but if you have given him ample opportunity to eliminate, try to ignore the protest and the puppy should settle down quickly. How much time in the crate is okay? No dog, young or old, should be living in a crate full-time. Dogs are social animals, so for a dog to have a good quality of life, social isolation should be kept to a minimum. All dogs need daily exercise and some interaction with others. Even four hours in a crate without a break during the day is a long time for many adult dogs. If you must crate your dog when you’re not home, arrange to have someone stop in and let her out for a potty break and to stretch her legs. Except for nighttime, crating a dog for long periods of time is not advised. Puppies, especially, should not be left in a crate for long periods of time (more than two hours). It is important that puppies not be
neglected and forced to break their instinctive aversion to soiling their sleeping area. Unfortunately, this is what happens to many pet-store puppies and it can lead to serious house-training difficulties. Also, since they are still developing, puppies have even more need for social interaction than adult dogs. If they aren’t socialized to the world while they are
young, they can develop fears and aberrant behaviors of many kinds. Most adult dogs can stay in a crate for the entire night without a trip outside. However, young puppies and some old dogs cannot physically hold their bladders and bowels through the night.
When should a crate not be used? A crate should not be used as a form of punishment. As mentioned earlier, your dog should have only warm, fuzzy feelings about her crate. Even though a dog can come to see her crate as a safe place, it is not the solution for a dog with separation anxiety, since she could injure herself trying to get out.
Rainbow Bridge Mandy
Dakota
Sammy
SAMMY “Saving one dog will not change the world, but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever!” Sammy definitely changed our lives by bringing us so much joy and laughter and from the love he gave us, we know we changed his. Late July we lost this “special” guy after only having him 10 months. Sammy was indeed special. He was so obsessed with tennis balls that he had a basket full of them. They were all over the house, in the cars and all over the yard hidden in special places only he knew where they were. Tennis balls have a whole new meaning in our household. Just ask Jo as she tripped over one and ended up with a broken foot. Sammy was well known to all the neighbors. Every weekend during the process of mowing the lawn or blowing leaves, he would go to different neighbor’s homes in hopes to come in and say hi, he was even lucky on several occasions. Sammy may have crossed the Rainbow
Bridge but he will never be forgotten and will be forever in our hearts till we see each other again! We love you Sammy!
–Lisa Masternak & Jo Porter
MANDY Mandy crossed the Rainbow Bridge on August 3 and joined her big brother, Bear. Both were SEVA GRREAT dogs adopted in 2007. Mandy was fostered (and nursed through HW treatment) by the Pitinis before finding her Forever Home with Sharon Leeman. It was love “before” first sight for Sharon -who saw her on the website -- and “at” first sight for Mandy who stayed at Sharon’s side throughout their first visit. A week later she came home making for a very Merry Christmas that year. Mandy was a fighter, surviving cancer in 2009, and celebrated her 12th birthday this February, until several old age maladies finally caught up with her this year.
Although she loved to run bunnies, squirrels and birds out of her back yard, she warmly welcomed two cats and a Pom into her home. She knew family when she saw them! She is greatly missed by all her knew her, but we are grateful for the many years we had together. We take comfort in knowing she is running healthy and happy again (and bossing Bear around like she always did).
–Sharon Leeman
DAKOTA We adopted Dakota through SEVA GRREAT in 2010 and he was a special and loving addition to our family. He became an ideal big brother for our youngest golden, Cooper. He battled cancer once and won, but recently was diagnosed again. We had to let our dear, sweet Dakota go on to Rainbow Bridge on July 15, 2015. We will love and miss him greatly. Our hearts ache.
–Cathy, Bay and Cooper FALL 2015
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The
GOLD Senior Spotlight Fund
Puttin’on the Ritz
Q
uestion: “Why would anyone want to adopt an older dog?” The only response to that is, “Why wouldn’t they?” While the time to share chapters in life might be shorter, the quality of life, the joys of life, and the appreciation of life are so great with a senior or geriatric canine that it can only melt one’s heart. They still love to be trained, enjoy walks, love to socialize, are over the chewing and rambunctious stages, and are totally easy to live with because they truly are focused on their human. A shining example of this is Ritzy, a gorgeous tall and lanky red who was recently adopted and who turned twelve during his first week with his forever family. Big Red, as his first foster called him, was surrendered to a shelter in NC when his family 20
By Roni Sumner
could no longer care for him. He had spent only one night in his temporary home when he became ill. A transport to an emergency clinic and a stay overnight proved the root of the problem to be pneumonia. Antibiotics were given, but it took a second round to rid him completely of the infection. SEVA GRREAT’s GOLD fund was there to cover his medical costs, and his first foster bid him a sorrowful farewell for a few weeks so that he could be closer to one of the vets who work with our rescue organization. Many tests were done to make certain that there was nothing else awry with him. The second foster family fell head over heels in love with him as well, and enjoyed watching him interact with their dogs when not placing his head in their laps and gazing upon them with adoring eyes. He was just as happy to return to the first foster while his other family took an overseas trip, and he adored the resident Golden there as well. Finally there was the return back to the second foster, close observation to make sure all was well, then a posting for adoption. It did not take long to find that forever home! Ritzy’s new family fell in love with him at first sight, saying it was hard to leave him after the initial visit. They have had years of experience working with older dogs and were ready to work with one again. By the next day arrangements were completed, and the gentle giant, as his new human mom called him, entered his permanent home. His new canine brother and sister, who had already met him, were thrilled to welcome him and even raced back to him in the yard one time when he fell to make certain that he was okay. A trip to the vet confirmed arthritis in the hips, and he was started on anti-
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
inflammatory drugs to help with that situation. Getting up from his dog bed or the carpet poses little difficulty; getting up from the hard wood floor is more of a struggle unless one of
the cats is around or someone has a sandwich. Then he is a puppy once again! Other than that, Ritzy is a gorgeous healthy guy with nary a gray hair on his head. His breathtaking beauty matches his even disposition, and he is adored by all who meet him. Thanks to a generous bequest from a longtime volunteer to establish the GOLD (Golden Oldie Love Dog) Fund, SEVA can care for senior
dogs until a compassionate family opens again their hearts and home to these wonderful aging angels. It is a wonderful experience worth repeating over and over, and while some families might fear having children watch an eventual decline of a pet, it is part of the lesson of life. So SEVA is proud to spotlight RITZY who really is putting on the Ritz and just as fashionable and debonair as any Golden could be no matter what the age.
Keepsake Bear (or Other Items)
How would you like to have a part of your beautiful golden to keep forever? Judy Lukas takes dog hair and spins it into yarn, which she then uses to create custom items like a Teddy Bear (or other items) as a keepsake. What makes it even more incredible, she does this – not to make money for herself – but to support animal rescues. She has agreed to include SEVA-GRREAT as one of her partners. If you're interested, please visit her website at http://www.socksjudy.com and contact her at judithlukas@gmail.com to finalize your order.
Ritzy celebrated his 12th birthday on August 4th; his special treat was peanut butter bread with bacon bits! What a lucky guy!
Here are some key things to consider: • The donation is made directly to SEVAGRREAT. Contributions will be verified before your item is completed. • Prices range from $30 for a 7-8 inch bear to $50 for fingerless mitts. Other custom items may be negotiated directly with Judy. • There is an additional $6 shipping fee for return postage paid directly to Judy. • You must have a minimum of 4 ounces (Teddy Bear) or 8 ounces (fingerless mitts) of brushed (not cut) hair. The more hair, the better! As always, thank you for your support of SEVA-GRREAT! SUMMER 2015
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Contributions Judith and Tony Hannold Stuart and Jean Morgan In memory of our loving Goldens, Molly and Murphy David and Tanya Niles
Suzanne Williams In memory of Doris Balduzzi-Barney, Nathan, and Pickle Relish’s Grandma
Sponsor-A-Dog Contributors
Betty and Bill Thompson In memory of Megan Thompson, a beloved Golden Mary Anne Herrman In honor of Bryce
L. Clay and Janis Beall III Jo Vance
Nina Broderick In memory of Sunshine
Thomas and Chelsea Hall
Lacey’s Fund
Laura Noel
GOLD e
Sandy Storherr In memory of Teddy Bear 1
Cean Cawthorn In honor of Sadie and in memory of Buddy
The
th
Christine Fuhrman In memory of Casey and Summer
Jill Richards Given by her groomer in thanks to SEVA GRREAT for saving Chloe Keown and placing her in a wonderful home
Carl and Lizbeth Jackson
Quan Li
GO
Fund
LD
EN O DO L DIE L OVE
n
d
Ann and Andor Czompo
G
Fu
Golden Oldie Love Dog Fund (GOLD Fund) is used for medical expenses, food, equipment, or adoption costs of rescued Golden Retrievers estimated to be ten years or older.
CVC
Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign #3456
Do you have a SEVA GRREAT dog? We would love to see what you are doing. Our alumni seem to be having very exciting lives. Share your pictures, including captions, by sending them to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com.
Combined Federal Campaign #88796
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
They will be featured in the next newsletter under Homecoming. And if you have a story to tell, we and the other Golden lovers would enjoy reading about it. So, send those stories with your photos also. We love pictures of newly adopted dogs with their new families, too!
MEMBERSHIP, DONATION & VOLUNTEER FORM Note: Membership is open to all persons 18 years or older.
SEVA GRREAT is a 501 (C)(3) organization • ALL DONATIONS & DUES ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE IN THE YEAR PAID
Please have the Coordinator in the following area/areas contact me: (Check appropriate boxes)
Name: _____________________________________________
These are listed in the order of urgent need by GRREAT.
Address: ___________________________________________ City, State, Zip: _ ______________________________________ E-mail: _____________________________________________
HOME EVALUATION –– visits for foster/adoption applicants.
Home Phone: ________________________________________ Work Phone: ________________________________________ This is a new membership Address Change ADDITIONAL VOTING MEMBERS:
FOSTERING — A temporary home for SEVA GRREAT dogs before they are adopted.
It’s that time of year to renew your membership
(E-mail needs to be unique to vote.)
TRANSPORTATION — primarily shuttling dogs and/or equipment as necessary. If you are interested in helping with transportation, can you help on: (circle all that apply) Weekdays
Weekends
Evenings
EVENTS — helping to hold/show dogs at “Golden Days,” helping with fund raisers, etc. PUBLICITY — researching and writing stories for media release and newsletters, selling ads for the newsletter, taking photos at events, updating the web site, etc.
Name: _____________________________________________ E-mail: _____________________________________________
MERCHANDISE — to man booths selling SEVA GRREAT stuff at local dog shows / fairs / festivals / etc.
Name: _____________________________________________ E-mail: _____________________________________________
Our rescue is growing! In order to continue to save more dogs every year, we are looking for volunteers who would like to become more involved with the organization. If you are interested in assisting with intake, foster coordination, Golden Days or other areas on a regular basis, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteering@adoptagolden.com, for more information.
Name: _____________________________________________ E-mail: _____________________________________________
REMITTANCE: I am enclosing my $25 annual membership dues $ ___________
SEVA GRREAT
Additional Voting members _____ @ $25 each
$ ___________
Please make checks payable to:
Donation
$ ___________
1 Calendar ($10.00 plus $5.60 shipping)
$ ___________
TOTAL REMITTANCE
$ ___________
Mail this form with your check to: SEVA GRREAT PO Box 8014 Yorktown, VA 23693
MY DONATION IS FOR: In Honor of
In Memory of
REQUIRED FOR MEMBERSHIP:
Other
IMPORTANT NOTICE If you would like to become a member, please sign below. Otherwise, your remittance for annual membership must be considered a donation.
Date: __________________________________________________________________
I affirm that I have never been convicted of an animal abuse crime. Signature: ______________________________________________________________
NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
SEVA GRREAT P.O. Box 8014 Yorktown, Va 23693
PAID
YORKTOWN, VA 23693 PERMIT NO. 11
Rescue Hotline 757-827-8561 Press For 1
If you think you have found one of our Goldens based on the SEVA GRREAT tag or microchip.
2 To leave a message for the President 3 To give up a Golden Retriever or get more info on our intake process 4
For Information on Golden Days and other events.
5
To check on the status of an adoption or foster application.
6
For all other questions.
National Dog Registry 1-800-NDR-DOGS Foster Dog Medical Care YORK VETERINARY CLINIC Yorktown 757-898-3700 COOKE VET MEDICAL CENTER Chesapeake 757-547-9421 QUIOCCASIN VET HOSPITAL Richmond 804-741-3200 ACREDALE ANIMAL HOSPITAL Virginia Beach 757-523-6100 ANDERSON’S CORNER Toano 757-566-2224
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SEVA GRREAT Contact Information President Jane Krom Vice President Joanne Even Treasurer Jim O’Connell Secretary Nikki Seger Event Coordinators: Southside: Peninsula: Linda Thomson Richmond: Jennifer Dauzier Microchip Coordinator Robyn Beasley Intake Coordinator Rose Bennett Foster Coordinator Katie Show Adoption Coordinator Robyn Beasley Membership Jacob Kay Volunteer Coordinator Beth Thompson Board Member Largo Elston Merchandise Jennifer Dauzier Fundraising GRREAT Times magazine
Sharon Leeman Brad Miller
president@adoptagolden.com vice_president@adoptagolden.com treasurer@adoptagolden.com secretary@adoptagolden.com events@adoptagolden.com southside_events@adoptagolden.com peninsula_events@adoptagolden.com richmond_events@adoptagolden.com sevagrreatadoptions@yahoo.com intake@adoptagolden.com fostering@adoptagolden.com sevagrreatadoptions@yahoo.com membership@adoptagolden.com volunteersevagrreat@gmail.com BMAL1@adoptagolden.com merchandise@adoptagolden.com BMAL2@adoptagolden.com grreattimes@adoptagolden.com
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