GRREAT Times Winter 2020

Winter 2020

Pet Poison Awareness

A Zest for Life

Membership Picnic

Contents GRREAT Times is a quarterly publication of SEVA GRREAT, Inc., an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding homes for homeless Golden Retrievers.

For more information, call our Hotline at 757-827-8561 or visit our web site at www.sevagrreat.org.

3 .. President’s Message

8

4 .. Adoptions

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.

6 .. Pet Poison Awareness

SEVA GRREAT disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors.

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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!

8 .. Glen Allen Day 10 .. Finnegan’s Birthday 11 .. A Zest for Life 12 .. Homecoming

16 14 .. A Brighter Home

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 .. Perfection 16 .. Membership Picnic

Email to: grreattimes@adoptagolden.com

18 .. Rainbow Bridge 21 .. Yorktown Toyland Parade

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22 .. Contributions 23 .. Membership

On The Cover: fostering@adoptagolden.com 2

That’s Zoe Laube from our 2020 calendar saying “It may be winter, but you can plan for warmer weather by getting our new 2020 calendar.”

Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

Mark Your Calendar

Check our website for updates and exact locations and times of events. adoptagolden.com Check back a week before the event to confirm.

Facebook: Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education, and Training!

Website: http://adoptagolden.com

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.

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.

President’s Message

New Beginnings for the New Year H

appy New Year SEVA GRREAT supporters!

As we look forward to exciting things in 2020, I’d like to take a quick look back on 2019 – another fantastic year for our rescue.

Thanks to your ongoing support we were able to rescue 63 goldens, and 58 have already found their forever homes. While “down” from last year, the primary difference was we didn’t receive 3 litters of puppies this year.

Whew! Like recent years an increasing number were international rescues with 40 coming from Turkey and China. That means increased expenses to get them here safely and lots of volunteer road trips to Dulles and JFK airports.

There was even a road trip to Yankee GRR in Hudson, MA – an experience we all enjoyed.

It may have been a good thing to take in fewer dogs last year, as we had several board members carrying dual roles throughout the year. Yet we have continued our recruitment efforts and I am happy to say that we’ll be back to a complete board for 2020. New contacts are listed on the back page, and I’d like to introduce Dottie Cleal and Susan Stanitski as your new president and vice president. Dottie returns to the board with experience as president in 2013, and you’ll be hearing more from her going forward. Many

of you may know Susan from volunteering at events and making many of the international transport runs. I know I appreciate her efforts and look forward to her joining the board and bringing new ideas. We are also excited to have Chris Walker taking over as adoption coordinator – Chris is a long-time volunteer who knows the rescue well and will do an outstanding job.

While welcoming some new faces, we are sad to “lose” Debbie Morris. She has worked extremely hard over the past few years as both VP and foster coordinator and is taking a well-deserved break. Rumor has it that she’ll still be involved in helping with transports and fundraising, so we’re not letting her off the hook. As “luck” would have it with my 3rd term as president ending, that leaves a place for me to remain actively involved. I will serve as foster coordinator this year, which honestly makes me a little nervous. But with your support, I have confidence we will keep things rolling smoothly and accomplish more GRREAT things in 2020. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as president of this amazing group, and truly appreciate all you do for our goldens!!

Jane WINTER 2020

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Adoptions

Lobo

Marley

Dabbie/Cooper

Tommy

Ginger

Larissa/Izzy

Oliver

Asher

Cinnamon

Marley – Brittany & Gregg Vajda

Lobo – Rebecca & Michael Roper

Dabbie/Cooper – Cathy & Nelson Hoyt

Ginger – Janie Kingsley

Tommy – Jen & Marc Dauzier

Larissa/Izzy – Cynthia & David Lee

Asher – Paticia & Michael Bouldin

Oliver – Ann Thomas

Cinnamon – Vida & Justin Donnette

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Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

Damon

Cajun

Pepsi/Winnie

Daisy

Chesnut (Chessie)

Daphne

Bella Grace

Fenway

Damon – Constance & Ray Sorrell

Cajun – Lisa Vogel

Daphne – Leslie Long

Daisy – Janet & Frank Meyer

Pepsi/Winnie – Laura & Dan Malkin

Fenway – Cassidy Crowder

& Matt Plucinski

Chesnut (Chessie) – Sharon Leeman

Bella Grace – Lisa Robinson

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Pet Poison Awareness T

he third week in March is designated as Pet Poison Awareness Week. This potential danger for our dogs should be on our minds every day, but having a designated week reminds us to strengthen our awareness of this important aspect of the care of our companions.

It is a good time also to make sure we are doing all we can to keep our pups safe from poisoning and that we know what to do in the event of suspected poison ingestion.

cases for which someone called the ASPCA poison center. Undoubtedly many more were not caught in time or were dealt with in some other way, such as an emergency trip to the vet. Fortunately, there is a lot we can do to minimize the risk to our dogs and to help them in the event of suspected poisoning.

Common toxins in the home and yard: The ASPCA lists the following as the top animal toxins for which they received calls in 2018 (they have a top 10 list, but there is some overlap so I’ve condensed it for easy reading):

Signs of possible poisoning: One of the most frightening experiences we can have with the animals in our care is to find our companion • Medications, both over the counter and acting ill and we have no idea what could prescription products. This category includes have happened. Poisoning often needs to be a vitamins and supplements. In some cases, consideration but can be challenging because this could be the result of someone trying the signs vary depending on the poison and how a human remedy on a dog. In other recently it was ingested. In general, you might cases, improperly secured medications see any of the following in a case of poisoning: were ingested by the dog. All products intended for human consumption, whether GI signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, black or prescription or not, need to be stored tarry stool, excessive salivation or drooling, securely and out of reach of pets, and not nausea or loss of appetite, excessive thirst, or used on dogs without the guidance of a really bad breath; signs of internal bleeding veterinarian. such as coughing of blood, vomiting blood, pale gums, rapid heart rate, weakness or lethargy, • Foods, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners. loss of consciousness or collapse. Some of This includes a wide variety of items but these signs are indicators of potential kidney or xylitol, grapes, raisins, onion, and garlic liver failure. were the top poisons in this group. If you own any “sugar free” foods or candies, Signs of poisoning often are very subtle at first keep them far away from your dog. Many and then become more obvious. There might contain the highly toxic ingredient xylitol. be a little tiredness, easy to dismiss as just due Others may contain sweeteners known to to a day of fun activity. Then more lethargy, or cause diarrhea. Other foods to keep securely maybe a little vomiting, then more vomiting. away from your dog include anything with Or something is “just not right” but it doesn’t caffeine or alcohol, macadamia nuts, and seem like any big deal, until it gets more “not chives which are in the onion and garlic right.” Early intervention is critical if you have family. Chocolate is extremely toxic with any reason to think your dog may have ingested often fatal results, especially for dark or a dangerous substance. baker’s chocolate. Unfortunately, many dogs are drawn to this deadly item. The ASPCA In 2018, the ASPCA poison control center center received approximately 60 calls per responded to 213,773 cases of potential animal day about chocolate ingestion. poisoning. Keep in mind those are just the

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Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

by Beth Rodgers, Ph.D.

• Veterinary products. This includes medications administered improperly or poisoning due to labels not being read correctly or not following directions of the prescribing veterinarian.

• Household items. The typical house is loaded with highly toxic items. Look under your kitchen or bathroom sink to see the array of potentially deadly products stored there.

Paint and glue, oils, antifreeze, cleaning products, even some health and beauty items such as lotions, soaps, and cosmetics can be toxic to a curious canine. Some essential oils also are highly toxic to dogs.

Remember that whatever you use to clean the floor will end up on your dogs paws or fur, providing a mechanism for possible ingestion.

• Rodenticides and insecticides. The same thing that makes those baits appealing to rodents makes them appealing to our dogs. Keep in mind that a dog consuming a dead mouse is ingesting not just the rodent but whatever that rodent has eaten. If the rodent was killed by rodenticide, your dog has just consumed rodenticide also. Bug sprays, repellents, and ant baits are common insecticides your dog could contact. Our dogs make contact with the floor constantly, so exposure is not just through obvious traps or baits but may also come from contact with residue that is licked off the paws or fur.

• Plants. It is possible to love houseplants, gardening, and also dogs. Some even like to help with the digging chores. But we do need to choose plants with care. There are many available that are safe for pets, but some of the most popular ones are highly toxic. A bored dog can easily destroy that beautiful hyacinth and end up with a trip to the ER assuming you catch it in time. Is

your dog inclined to chew on a fallen or low hanging branch? Consider your yard plants also as many of those are highly toxic as well. The ASPCA has a comprehensive guide for house and outdoor plants that is a must read for any dog owner. When I moved into my current house, there were some beautiful azaleas and rhododendron in the back yard.

Not any more. I did find a spot in the front for them, fortunately, outside the fence.

Way outside the fence where my dog never goes. The deer are very happy I did that.

But that points out just how the definition of “poisonous” varies by species. The deer eat them readily, and other bovidea species such as sheep and goats would do just fine, but my dog could end up in cardiac failure or neurologic crisis if he ate them. My dogs also have had an amazing ability to find poison mushrooms and toads, so I

spend a lot of time in the summer doing yard patrol to remove such hazards.

• Lawn and Garden products. Fertilizers, bone meal, compost, mulch, treated hardwoods, and herbicides all can be highly toxic to your dog. But they told you the lawn was safe for your dog after the weed and feed application dried, you say? Short answer, no it is not. The label saying it is safe after it dries is based on specific testing. Numerous studies have shown that residue can be transferred from grass to a dog’s paws long after a liquid product has dried or a granular product has been watered into the soil or rained on. That residue will be on the grass, then on your dog’s paws and fur, and then in your house. Usually that amount of exposure does not cause immediate poisoning, but long term risks remain. Herbicides and fertilizer

products themselves, however, could cause a more rapid poisoning. Some wood mulch, like some lumber prepared for outdoor use, is treated with toxic chemicals and can be poisonous if ingested. Many dogs are very attracted to Cocoa mulch, sometimes called cocoa bean mulch, which is a byproduct of chocolate production. Cocoa mulch has the same components that make chocolate toxic and can be very dangerous if ingested.

Usually we think of poisoning as the result of accidental exposure, but it can occur with intentional exposure as well. Some dogs have had toxic reactions to flea and tick products which, even when used as directed on the label, can have serious side effects. Each dog is an individual when it comes to sensitivity and reaction.

This is by no means a complete list. But I hope that a look at the array of products listed, with special consideration to all the additional hazards that seem to come with lawn and garden season every year, will heighten awareness of the dangers our dogs (and we humans, too) face on an everyday basis.

Be mindful of the hazards that exist, know what to do if you find your dog has ingested something it shouldn’t, and keep the poison control center number handy just in case.

More information: One of the best resources for more information: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animalpoison-control Here you can find details about all sorts of toxic substances your dog might encounter as well as a guide for selecting safe plants for your house and yard. The guide covers dogs, cats, and other animals since toxicity is not the same for all species.

What to do if you suspect poisoning: If you

WINTER 2020

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Pet Poison

(continued from page 7)

have a case of suspected poisoning, quick action is critical. First, if you can, try to identify the potential toxin. If you know what your dog consumed, grab the container to stop further ingestion and so you can tell a poison control expert about the product. Next, call a pet specific poison control helpline. There are several, and most do charge for the service.

Charges may be waived for dogs registered with certain microchip services. AKC Reunite microchips are associated with a free poison control helpline but the service must be activated in advance through the AKC reunite website. Another well known source for poisoning-related information is the ASPCA Poison Control Center (888-426-4435).

Know where your nearest 24 hour veterinary emergency center is also. While you are thinking of it, put this number and the number of your Vet ER in your phone. Think of it as insurance, something you really need to have but hope you›ll never use. Do not try to treat the poisoning until you receive professional advice about the product ingested. Depending on the poison, it may be appropriate to induce vomiting, but vomiting can cause additional harm in some cases. Always get the advice of a poison control specialist first. Keep a fresh bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide available, along with a measuring spoon and syringe or measuring dropper, in the event you are directed to use this to induce vomiting. Keep it sealed, and replace it before the expiration date. Fortunately, hydrogen peroxide is inexpensive, but it is worth a fortune if you have an emergency and need to use it to induce vomiting.

Hopefully you will never need it, but here›s a video on how to induce vomiting using hydrogen peroxide. There is some good information here about when not to induce vomiting, also. Be sure to contact a vet or poison helpline first.

How to induce vomiting in a dog (and when not to) https://www.wideopenpets.com/make-dogthrow-not/ Stay safe out there!

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Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

Don’t stop.

Glen Allen Day

The biggest and littlest.

Look into my eyes.

Why are we waiting for?

No one is holding our leashes.

Lots of people to see today.

WINTER 2020

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er Rescue, Dear Golden Retriev

Finnegan’s Birthday

letter but I just had year since my last a t os alm en be s It ha ce my official anged in my life sin ch s ha h uc m w ho (unfortunately to share ol twice for training ho sc to ne go ve ha done some adoption. I really hard), I have ed tri I t bu , re he le Shore I struggled a litt r Banks, the Eastern te Ou e th e lik s ce . more traveling to pla play hide and seek family). I learned to e se (to d an Isl am I ng and Lo er. Sometimes ot is in Mom’s show p in there.

My favorite hiding sp asleep and take a na ll fa en ev I at th g s pick the hiding for so lon e first since I alway er th k loo uld wo e You would think sh kes forever to find it seems like she ta es im et m so t bu , ot same sp me (LOL). e where I at my doggie daycar ds en fri w ne y an .

I have made so m if not twice a week ytime at least once pla of n oo e rn lov te af s— have an t out to my peep is awesome—shou the beach.

(Cosmos Day Care I failed to mention if iss m re be uld wo ce to hang those girls!). I en such a great pla be s ha h ac be he Ahhh the beach! r and swimming. y do I love the wate bo d an er m m su is still trying out th d in school, well I am gle ug str I id sa I r just so excited Remembe to the beach, I was t go we en wh y da om because one nning and pulled M ter that I started ru wa e th when I w d sa I an r en te wh in the wa e sand. I sat down th in ce fa how r t, he gh on right en I thou I was in trouble. Th ew kn I r, he at ha ck ce!I am ppy looked ba Golden Retriever fa te cu is th ive rg fo t could she no n now! to report all is forgive g up with my summer was meetin e th of rt pa st be The truly o are in Yorktown d my sister Stella wh and her brother Keegan an d Connie (Brewer) en fri ’s om m y M g. r and Williamsbur siblings. We had ou r) adopted 2 of my we re (B us tie d Ka ha ie er ht nn daug nt Co 1st birthday party. Au r ou at ion un s re iou ily lic own fam e bought us a de e for a cookout. Sh r dogs. all over to her hous at are made just fo th m ea cr ice e ad ol cake and homem yard, got lots of co , ran all around the ols po e th y in m d at ye th pla We s so nervous me great eats! I wa t as we all presents and had so r me, but it was grea be em m re t no uld at the siblings wo it to see them again wa n’t Ca ! er th ge to played and ate t News. ndraiser in Newpor upcoming SEVA fu ed to say hello to g an ear! I just want din len r fo all u yo is in Virginia Well thank again how great life ce on ow kn u yo let what everyone and d I can’t wait to see an exciting year an en be ates s ha ym It pla h! of ac Be couple id I may even get a sa om M s. ing r br ste o fo year tw again to help nning to volunteer this year as she is pla rever home! waiting on a new fo another dog that is

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Love & Woofs, Finnegan (Collins)

Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

Stella

Finnegan

Keagan

S

awyer (formerly Niko) was rescued by a Seva Grreat foster mom, Elaine in July/August of 2018. He was found in Richmond, VA living in a car with his owner in a Walmart Parking lot. Elaine quickly remedied the situation by taking possession of him after seeing he was very thin and in need of some attention. At the vet Sawyer weighed 15 pounds at 8 months old and it was clear Elaine had her work cut out for her. Over the next month and a half Elaine worked very hard to get some weight on him. When Bryan and I got the call from Quan that he was available to adopt, he now weighed 32 pounds and was a very vibrant, energetic and lovable Golden doodle. Sawyer adopted us on October 27th and has been non-stop since. His Border Collie brother, Finn, who we got

A Zest for Life just 2 months before are inseparable.

In the last year, they have hiked almost every square inch of Virginia, swam in the Shenandoah, James, New and Potomac rivers and enjoyed the Chesapeake Bay. Their love for the outdoors, snuggling next to a campfire, enjoying nature, visiting breweries and festivals has grown tremendously. Sawyer has zest for life that’s infectious to be around. He sleeps affectionately between us every night, strategically edging his brother out of the “prime” spot quite often. He loves socks, he’s great at the dinner stare down, there’s no counter top he can’t conquer, and craves momma’s homemade baked peanut butter and pumpkin treats, and has a face you can’t help but kiss a thousand times a day. My heart is so full with love for him and from him.

I admittedly spoil the 2 pups rotten

and dare anyone to judge. Even bought an RV to ensure their outdoor camping adventures would be comfortable and pleasant. Full disclosure, I find it to be very comfy and awesome too! He is now 21 months old and fully grown at 42 pounds per the vet and wired for sound 16 hours a day, taunting Finn, stealing toys, unfolding clothes, licking faces and lounging next to me during the day, as I work from home. There are no words for the joy him and Finn have brought to mine and Bryan’s life. Thank you SEVA Grreat for the amazing work that you do for these goldens, for the tireless hours your volunteers work, and for the unwavering dedication you have when bringing these pups to their forever families!

Eternally grateful, Angela and Bryan Woodruff

Winter 2020

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This is Rusty, one of our forever fosters. He’s doing great now, but he was in bad shape when we got him. A couple called us about a dog they had saved – found on the side of the road barely able to move. They couldn’t keep him so they reached out to us, and after clearing it with Animal Control, we took Rusty into our system.

Rusty is a sweet old gentleman – around 10 to 12 years old. He was Lyme positive, needed full dental work, had his ears flushed and was neutered. His teeth were so bad that our partners at Midlothian Animal Care said he may not be left with many once the surgery is over. He was likely chewing on crate/cage bars at one time. His ears were so bad that they were not sure how much he could actually hear. Plus he was all skin and bones so he needed to gain quite a bit of weight.

The only positive was that he was Heartworm negative!

My name is Jennifer Cook. My family adopted a wonderful Golden from SEVA GRREAT in July 2007. He has been such a wonderful addition to our family. According to his records, he was born 4-15-2002, which means he will be 18 in a few months.

Of course he’s not as active as he used to be and getting around can sometimes be a little bit harder, but when the refrigerator door opens or he sees a squirrel outside, watch out đ&#x;˜Š

Look at him now!! This is what love and care does!

I’ve attached a few pictures of our “old man.�

He still loves stuffed animals and sometimes will bring us the remote control or random shoe when we walk in the door.

Thank you for continuing to find wonderful homes for these amazing dogs.

-Jennifer Cook

Dixie (former Turkey dog Bia) passed her test to become a certified therapy dog.

Her mom and foster mom are both so proud of her.

Congratulations Dixie!!

-Crystal Copeland-Miller

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Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

An update on Runa from her dad: “Well, it’s been almost a year and Runa and I are happier than ever together! She’s a great companion, super sweet, playful, active and affectionate too.

Thank you for putting the two of us together! We both really appreciate it. She’s great and makes every day better.”

Runa came to us from Turkey in August of 2018 and was adopted last November.

Here’s one to put a Monday morning smile on your face. From Bernie’s mom: “Bernie won first place in the pet costume contest this year. He was adopted in 2010 and is 9 years old.”

Homecoming –Eric Vetterick

Share your pictures and stories by sending them to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com.

They will be featured in coming newsletters, right here under Homecoming.

Here is Oliver sitting in my office at Seaside Behavioral Health where he is a therapy dog. He received his certification from Therapy Dogs International in June and has been a welcome addition to our office several days a week - the patients love him!!!

Also he will be one of the dogs in Ballet Virginia’s Nutcracker this Christmas- he’s had quite a year!!!

-Thanks, Jenny Brown

Blaze, Sphie and Jazzy having fun.

Winter 2020

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A Brighter Home

by Gregg Benshoff

O

ur home is so much brighter now that Rita has become a member of our family.

Our former Turkey dog was found alone on the side of the road by a Good Samaritan, in pretty bad shape. After a long rehab, great care, and lots of love from Gamze Goksoy, she made it to America into the loving hands of SEVA GRREAT volunteers. Words can never thank the transport team and her foster, Susan Beckman enough!

Rita has adjusted well to her home, making us smile everyday. She is definitely the queen around our neighborhood and gets love from lots of people and local shop owners.

She loves to go visit her Nona, niece Madelyn, and her Boxer cousins Jeter and Jaba. She also has many friends like the Hatstat family who love and care for her too.

“First Team Toyota supports GRREAT! Looking for a car? Come see us at: 3400 Western Branch Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23321

Phone: 877-331-5419 • www.firstteamtoyota.com

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. 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.

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When Rita is not on the couch relaxing or waking up Mommy in the morning with kisses, she is out for walks around the neighborhood. She especially likes the park, where she is always on the lookout for squirrels.

Rita’s newest adventure is helping other Goldie’s find fur-ever homes. She goes with her Mommy to visit families that want to adopt from SEVA GRREAT. Rita has rescued us as much as we rescued her. We will always be thankful to every wonderful person that has touched her life and ours.

Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

Perfection S

by Veronica Sumner

he entered my world in March, 2019. I already had three former SEVA goldens and was not actively seeking another. In fact, in my small condo, it would be impractical to have one more fur baby. Yet there are forces that seem to shape my life over which I have no control (that is my excuse), and thus I asked to foster her knowing full well that she would round out what came to be known as my Quad Squad. Her name is Cassie.

back into her step and rarely does she stumble at all anymore.

Perfection

Cassie IS perfection!

Cassie was confused about her life-style change. She has just turned 12 the week before her journey to me, and her world had tilted. Everything familiar to her was gone, she did not feel well, and she was now surrounded by three other goldens eager to welcome her.

Her answer to it all was to bark, so bark she did. After letting everyone know that she had a voice, she began the process of adjusting to her new life.

Love and patience will transcend everything in time. Cassie taught me to be patient, to let her process, to praise each step. At age 12, she had to begin a new life. She has assimilated and is one happy girl. Old dogs, after all, can learn new tricks.

Perfection

Perfection Could I dare to say that Cassie has no flaws?

Yes, I could! Her aim is to please me, she has a quiet but happy disposition, and she is gentle with an air of royalty that has caused me to nickname her the Grand Duchess. She is a polished diamond who sparkles flawlessly.

Perfection

Note: Soon after this article was written, Cassie passed over the Rainbow Bridge.

Some dogs love everyone equally, even strangers it seems. Cassie is not one of those.

After a few days, she decided that I was perfectly wonderful and became MY girl.

Her body has many lumps which seems to make her shy away from long petting sessions, but still she wants close contact with me resting her head on my foot when I am sitting or leaning her head against my knee if I am standing. She now would raise her beautiful brown eyes and gaze at me with love and trust.

Perfection After six months with us, one would think that Cassie had been here since puppyhood She walks politely on a leash, knows her basic commands, always waits her turn, and has impeccable house manners. For a while, her hindquarters gave out easily, and she would sink to the ground. However, under the care of great vets, she began to strengthen. Supplements, medication, and cold laser treatments have put the prance WINTER 2020

15

Sqeeze a little closer.

Kay family portrait.

Lilly and Gabbi who arrived from Turkey together get reacquainted again.

Sophie and Blaze with Sophie’s mom and dad.

Blaze says “I’ve never seen so many balls together at once.

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Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

The tennis ball raffle.

Members Picnic

50/50 Raffle

Gathering of the clan.

That’s my ball!

Dogs never forget their foster mom . . .

Elsa, Rouse & Quan.

Let’s eat!

I don’t want to go home.

Is that mine?

Winter 2020

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Rainbow Bridge

Annie

Cassie

BrandyBear

Annie, another of our forever fosters, unexpectedly crossed the Rainbow Bridge on Friday. We extend our deepest sympathy to Pat Owens, her foster mom, and George, who was there loving her until the very end.

Just seven months ago, a regal senior was adopted by Roni and John Sumner. She had just turned 12 and was a bit befuddled by her new home, but it only took her a short time to adapt and give her golden heart to her new family. Her name was Cassie, but often she was called Grand Duchess for the poise and polish that she possessed.

We had to let our sweet BrandyBear go yesterday...just a few days before her thirteenth birthday. All my life I wanted a Golden Retriever, but we always adopt rescue dogs, so over the years we had marvelous mutts, a Cocker Spaniel, a German Shepherd, two labs, and then BrandyBear, my big beautiful Golden girl...my dream come true!

She was sweet, kind, gentle, and smart. We’re devastated by our loss. She was our joy...we miss her so much.

Annie was not just another foster. She was a dog who would snap and growl, although she had never bitten anyone. She had a trigger and no one ever figured out what it was. Because of that... we could not put her up for adoption.

Some fosters keep a dog a couple of weeks, others a couple of months. Pat and George -- a couple of years (she came to us in the middle of 2017) -- and they loved her, but they also did really hard work, some days because there was no one else to do it. We can’t say a big enough thank you for the life and love they provided to Annie. It was so special that we received an email from the vet tech at The Cove who witnessed that love at the very end and wrote to us saying they (the staff at The Cove) wish more people understood just how committed fosters are. We understand and we are so grateful. She will be greatly missed by her family.

RIP Annie, run free and happy now, while you wait for your family at the Rainbow Bridge.

May you never feel fear or anger again.

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On October 21, Cassie lit up the sky when she flew to heaven. A brain lesion was growing in her head causing grand mal seizures which were silenced by medication. However, she lost control of her lower limbs, and the quality of life was gone. The gift of peace needed to be given, and so with a promise of Cheetos trees in heaven, she contentedly took her last breath returning to the dignity she so deserved.

Cassie had enjoyed her sisters Honey and Tassie and her brother Murphy when she was a Sumner. She played with all of them often frolicking about like a puppy. Towards the end, they patiently tolerated when she fell on top of them, and Roni worked hard to keep her as happy as possible.

Though the time together was short, she made a huge impact on her family and will forever be missed.

Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

–Cathie and Sam Birdsong

RHEa We send our deepest sympathy and healing hugs to Rhea’s family. She was adopted from SEVA GRREAT in 2010 and had moved to Texas with her family. We have this message from her dad: “It is with a heavy heart we send you this message. Our girl Rhea suffered a stroke and had gone blind and lost mobility in her hind legs. She crossed Rainbow bridge this morning with us by her side. We were truly blessed by god to have her in our life and she brought us great joy! She will be missed by all of us and her little sisters here at the house.

It’s emptier now! We loved her so much. Thank you all for bringing her into our lives.”

Coco

Lincoln

Jazmyn

Just wanted to share with you guys that we lost our Coco yesterday, who I adopted through SEVA when he was 6/7 years old. He was 15 years old. To say we are heartbroken is an understatement. The past year has been tough for him as he was losing muscle in his hips and hind legs...we built him a ramp at the grandparents house, as well as our house, we hand fed him when he just didn’t feel strong enough to stand up, we held water bowls for him, I got up in the middle of the night when I would hear one bark (that bark was a “hey mom, I’ve slipped off my bed and I’m not strong enough to get myself back up...will you come help me?”) It was almost like having a newborn baby again. He needed me as much as I needed him. I’m pretty lost without him.

Adopting him through your organization, did more for me personally and my kids, then you will ever understand. I posted the above post yesterday on my Facebook with only a handful of pictures but so many memories to last a lifetime. He would have been 16 in December.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Pitini family on the loss of their golden boy.

Lincoln was born January 6, 2009 and adopted from SEVA GRREAT when he was two. He crossed the Rainbow Bridge on September 26 after fighting a brave battle against a brain tumor. Just a few short weeks ago, he seemed healthy and happy and had only given up his agility career a few months ago, where he was a four-time champion. Rest in Peace, sweet boy. Run the Bridge with your furry siblings who have gone before and know how much you were loved.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to Jazmyn’s family. She lived a very happy and fun life, as you can see in these pictures, and crossed the Rainbow Bridge at age 11-3/4. Her family fostered for SEVA GRREAT, but Jazmyn was one they could not let go. Run free and play, sweet girl.”

Tilly

–Allison Wyant

Ovie Here’s a note from his mom about this beautiful boy: “Just wanted to give you all at Seva a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart. Our Ovie boy that you guys introduced us to back in 2011 took his trip across the rainbow bridge this afternoon after 9 wonderful years with our family. We cannot thank you all enough for the work you do and the opportunity to have such an amazing dog.”

We extend our deepest sympathy to Barbara and Jeffrey Raliski on the loss of Tilly. She was one of the SEVA GRREAT forever fosters that had been with them since right before Christmas 2 years ago. She was named Chevy when she first came into the rescue, but she was recuperating from doggie vertigo. ..hence the name Tilly...short for “Tilt a Whirl”. She was a senior golden mix who had a rough life before joining her foster family. Even though she was wary of most people, she bonded quickly with Barbara and became a special part of their family. She thrived there, and even though she was having a harder and harder time getting around, she still loved affection and treats. Run free now, sweet Tilly, you are young and healthy again! You will be missed so very much.

Winter 2020

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Sophie makes one pretty reindeer

Bentley

Stella, Shine, Rousse know who to hang with

(804) 794-2099 Alison Rhoades, DVM Tim Withers, DVM Becky Rose, DVM Andrea Berger, DVM

medical • surgical • dental care • laser therapy in-house lab • digital radiography • ultrasound acupuncture • boarding • bathing • cremation

Your best friend’s best friend Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs - 8:30am-7:30pm Fri - 8:30am-5:30pm Sat - 8:30am-12:00pm

www.macvetva.com

you SE Thank

info@macvetva.com

elpin VA GRREAT for h g me find my fur-ever fa

mily!

–Rita Benshoff

20

Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

Yorktown Toyland Parade Oliver Thomas enjoyed seeing the kids Let the parade begin

Max and Callie Walker Vinny & Jordy Beckman

Hunter - hurt while chasing deer

Winter 2020

21

Contributions Margaret Webb Robin Evans Kristen Steingrandt In memory of Lloyd Aguero Mariah Moorehead In memory of Cassie Sumner Mary Ann Naegele

Rachel Joy In memory of Hannah Joy and Maggie Joy

Terri & Pat Farley Mary Connell In honor of Fergie and Bailey Connell

Ruth Ann Rummel In memory of Abby and Shelby

Brenda Penca

Sue Barlow In honor of Sharon Leeman

Patricia Rowan In memory of Deb Hubbard (a former member)

Mike Warren In memory of Maria Warren

Ann & Andor Czompo

Marc & Jennifer Dauzier

Wellington & Wendy Kay Joe Vance

Rhonda King In memory of Apollo and King King

Shirley Dimmick In memory of Cynthia Kennett

James Knight Molly told me to do it!

Carl Jackson

James & Sheila Kingsley In honor of Millie Kingsley

Dave & Peggy Main In memory of Hattie and Maddy Sam & Vicki Reichart In honor of Rudi Janice Hathcock Allegra Havens William & Janet Harper In memory of Simba

Jan Montgomery

L. Clay Beall, III

Ruth Ann Wilson In memory of Samantha, Rusty, and Casey (SEVA GRREAT adoptees)

Diane Trinko In memory of Bill Balderston

Becky Schnizler In memory of Champ

Karen Luvaas & Peter Kucera In memory of our dear JJ

Don & Cindy Merrix In honor of SEVA GRREAT Goldens Cooper and Ashley Merrix

Jerry & Danette Allen In memory of Murphy

Patricia Owens In memory of Justice and Anna Bella

Nancy Tamse In honor of Lucky Finn

Terry Sherman

Cathy Heimer FIn honor of Gus, Rusty and Benji

Vivian Webb, Cruises Inc. I often offer “guessing contests” for my customers to earn money to send to their favorite charity. Tyler Brunet won and named your organization to receive the money.

Dorothy Winn Mary Lou Calhoun In memory of George Haggerty, Tucker, Maggie and Jenny Jane & Jim Krom In honor of Lucy and Lacey Susie & John Collamore In memory of Buddy Keith & Diane Christiansen In memory of precious Dixie Jane Frye Sara Somerville Erin Johnson Deb & Chuck Anderson Kathleen Wolff In thanks for the wonderful Parade of Goldens event at The Chesapeake Bob & Cammie Hendricks In memory of Brandy, Daisy and Suzie Kathleen Jens Barbara Talley In memory of our 4 Golden boys Nancy Keller In thanks for bringing the Goldens to The Chesapeake. It was a special treat to be able to love and pet them.

Georgia Mamangakis In memory of Tyler Mark & Patricia Seelenbinder In honor of Chester Cathy & Bay Rowe In memory of Dakota Rowe, our SEVA GRREAT adoption

22

Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign #3456

Skip & Terry Cole In memory of our precious Samantha and Casey

Deborah Jordan In honor of Dakota

Linda Peters

Mike & Lee Anne Lamkin In honor of Brewer

CVC

Combined Federal Campaign #003456

Abram Van Dover Cindy Beacham & Neal Shambaugh Mary McChesney Jacob Kay In memory of Cassie, Dailey, Ben, Jake and Riley Sherry & Bill Peterson In memory of Teddy and Leader Timothy Kosarsky In memory of Murphy, Daisy and Reilly Jennifer Katz Susan Kenter Dorothy Kozak In memory of John Kozak Ken Shewbridge Christine & Eric House In honor and in memory of Bill House, Baxter, Trevor, Bruin and Hank Dan Nieman Sarah Taylor Susan H. Burton

Barbara Raliski Elizabeth Donoghue & John Rellick Harrison & Mary Owens In honor of Dottie Cleal Sharon & Journey Johnson In honor of Finn, our sweet puppy adopted 2 years ago K F Emory In memory of Louanne Emory Marc Villamiel & Alan Rudnick

Tracy Minnich

Brian & Linda Thomson In honor of Nina and in memory of Sandpiper, Jake and Shea

Susan Reynolds

Molly Forman

Margaret Webb

Donna & Jack Roggmann In honor of Finn

Kevin Michael Zinski In memory of Roger, Floyd, Dakota, Stanley, Gracie,

Stephanie Snider

Jason Juliano

Meg Richardson In honor of Ivy, Elliott, Bently, Dodger, Pebbles and Bambam

Julie Blakey

A. J. Brandt Byerly In memory of Dallas, adopted from SEVA GRREAT Tony & Judy Hannold In honor of and in memory of Ann Thomas and Oliver Becky and Midas Barry Barnes Marlene Lausen In loving memory of Andor Czompo Joe & Joyce Sabol Marian Fisher Kunz In memory of Chloe Jean Morgan In honor of our wonderful foster families

Dottie Cleal In memory of Rusty, Prissy and Andie

Ann Czompo

Karen Whyte In memory of Fred J. Whyte

Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education & Training, Inc.

Barbara and Phil Oestreich In memory of Anne Shirley and Mr. Raffles (Golden Retrievers)

Susan Deane

Josie Collier In honor of Janey and her G. R. Marvin

Kevin Michael Zinski In memory of Sam, Ginger Even, Ginger Li and Bosley Dauzier

Michelle & Chris Clary In memory of Sadie and Tyler

Patricia Winters

The Shaved Duck Restaurant, LLC

Bob & Peg Graham In memory of our beloved foster failure Harrington

Jill Hoehlein In honor of all the dedicated SEVA GRREAT volunteers, Merry Christmas!

Leslie Horton In honor of Colt

Sandy & George Anderson In honor of Kennedy

Alice Brown In memory of Blue

W. Carter Winn

Kimberly Christner Laura & Rick Spink In memory of Buddy, Haley and Buster Miley & Jean Walker In memory of Sparrow

John Whistler Mary Pat Harris Stephanie Dobson Marc and Pam Hines Joseph Bruzzese Gail Smith Tracy Rooney Joseph Lang Lewis Sundquist Sally Hall Jerri Powell Allegra Havens Margaret Ely Anne Will

Golden Oldie Love Dog Fund

(GOLD Fund) Carl Jackson In memory of Senior Dogs

Sharon O’Donnell’ In memory of Kathleen O’Donnell

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

To Volunteer:

Please have the Coordinator in the following area/areas contact me:

Name: _____________________________________________

(Check appropriate boxes)

Address: ___________________________________________ City, State, Zip: _ ______________________________________

These are listed in the order of urgent need by GRREAT.

E-mail: _____________________________________________

FOSTERING — A temporary home for SEVA GRREAT dogs before they are adopted.

Home Phone: ________________________________________

HOME EVALUATION –– visits for foster/adoption applicants.

Work Phone: ________________________________________

TRANSPORTATION — primarily shuttling dogs and/or equipment as necessary. If you are interested in helping with transportation, can you help on:

This is a new membership Address Change ADDITIONAL VOTING MEMBERS:

It’s a new year.

Time to renew.

(E-mail needs to be unique to vote.)

(circle all that apply) Weekdays

Weekends

Evenings

EVENTS — helping to hold/show dogs at “Golden Days,” helping with fund raisers, etc.

Name: _____________________________________________

PUBLICITY — researching and writing stories for media release and newsletters, selling ads for the newsletter, taking photos at events, updating the web site, etc.

E-mail: _____________________________________________ Name: _____________________________________________

MERCHANDISE — to man booths selling SEVA GRREAT stuff at local dog shows / fairs / festivals / etc.

E-mail: _____________________________________________ Name: _____________________________________________

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.

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 = $12.00 (includes 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

Williamsburg, Va 23185 Permit No. 220

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 ANDERSON’S CORNER Toano – 757-566-2224 Midlothian Animal Clinic Midlothian – 804-794-2099 Bay Beach Veterinary Hospital Virginia Beach – 757-340-3913

Like us on facebook!

SEVA GRREAT Contact Information President Dottie Cleal Vice President Susan Stanitski Treasurer Pat Donaldson Secretary Sharon Leeman Event Coordinators: Southside: Jane Krom Peninsula: Linda Thomson Richmond: Jennifer Dauzier Microchip Coordinator Sharon Leeman Intake Coordinator Michelle Pfeiffer Foster Coordinator Jane Krom Adoption Coordinator Chris Walker Membership Jacob Kay Volunteer Coordinator Sherry Kara Medical Coordinator Beth Rodgers Merchandise Jennifer Dauzier Fundraising Linda Thomson GRREAT Times magazine 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 medical@adoptagolden.com merchandise@adoptagolden.com fundraising@adoptagolden.com grreattimes@adoptagolden.com

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