Spring 2018
SEVA GRREAT Volunteer • Give Local 757 • Loose-Leash Walking
CONTENTS GRREAT Times is a quarterly publication of SEVA GRREAT, Inc., an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding homes for homeless Golden Retrievers.
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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.
3 .. President’s Message 4 .. Adoptions 6 .. Volenteer Member Spotlight 8 .. Give Local 757
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!
10 .. Where Are They Now? 12 .. Homecoming 14 .. Tips for a Healthy Senior Golden 15 .. Dog Rules
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.
16 .. Gaining Confidence
14 19 .. Turkey Dog Updates
Email to: grreattimes@adoptagolden.com
20 .. Loose-Leash Walking 21 .. Rainbow Bridge 22 .. Contributions
20 23 .. Membership Application ON THE COVER: fostering@adoptagolden.com 2
From the april month in our 2018 calendar, Nina ushers in the spring season. It’s not too late to get your calendar.
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR April 28 2018 Woofstock Festival Richmond May 8 Give Local 757! May 19 Spring Membership Meeting and Beach Gathering Little Island Park, Sandbridge Beach, VB 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 H
ello SEVA GRREAT supporters and Happy Spring! It’s the “first dogs” Lucy and Lacey here with a quick message before our mom starts rambling like she always does. We just wanted to thank you for all your support for dogs like us – without all of you, we wouldn’t have found our way to our forever home. We are SO happy we got to be “sisters,” and love hearing all the stories about other goldens like us. So, “paws up” for your GRREAT work, and here comes mom……. It’s hard to believe that March is almost over, and soon we’ll be in the 2nd quarter of 2018. Lots of good things are happening this year – already we’ve rescued 15 goldens, and 11 have found their forever homes. Of the 15 intakes this year, 11 have come all the way from Istanbul, Turkey. You may be noticing the increase in international transports and wondering why. Aren’t there enough local goldens needing our help? The honest answer is “no.” It is becoming rare for the local shelters to turn a golden over to rescue, particularly one that is young and considered highly adoptable. We are much more likely to be contacted if the dog has “issues” – i.e. a bite history, doesn’t get along with other dogs, a senior with medical needs, etc. We understand and remain available to help any “local” golden we can, as long as they don’t have aggression issues. In fact, we just sent a letter and SEVA GRREAT calendar to about 70 shelters in our area, reminding them of our availability. We are also getting fewer “owner surrenders,” and suspect social media has a big role in that. With sites such as Craigslist and Facebook, people are using other means to “re-home” their golden. Again, we reach out whenever we are aware of a golden in need, and our international efforts will never keep a “local” golden from having a place with SEVA GRREAT. We feel so fortunate to have our amazing foster homes and wonderful adopters, waiting to welcome these goldens from near and far. It is definitely more costly for SEVA GRREAT to rescue the goldens from Turkey, as travel
is expensive. But much of the cost includes some basic vetting provided while in Turkey. All the dogs that come over have been spayed/neutered, microchipped, and tested for heartworms, tick-borne diseases, and Leishmania. They are quarantined prior to leaving the country and have a health certificate issued by a veterinarian. There have definitely been a few surprises on arrival, and these dogs continue to need medical care here before ready for adoption. But they seem truly grateful to have love and a family. Street life is hard for goldens in Turkey, and we are proud to be a part of the international rescue efforts. That brings me to another important topic – events and fundraising! Now more than ever, we need to continue our fundraising efforts. We have a couple of events lined up, so please follow our website events tab and Facebook page for details. The biggest is the Give Local 757 campaign on May 8, which we consider our “Super Bowl” of fundraising. Last year we came in 2nd place overall, for an additional $3000 prize. This year, we need your help again and hope to take 1st place and the $5000 prize. You can read all about Give Local and other events in this issue of GRREAT Times. Again, I thank each and every one of our supporters for all that you do for SEVA GRREAT goldens!!
Jane
SPRING 2018
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Adoptions
Barley
Candy
Ginny
Hope
Miracle
Prince
Mary
Rainbow
Ellie
Barley – Amy & Ryan Culicerto
Ginny – The Snidow Family
Miracle – John & Stacy Klemenc
Candy – Chris & Dan Walker
Hope – Pat & John Donaldson
Prince – Bill Niznik & Regina Gallagher
Ellie – Scott & Michelle Gratfon
Mary – Susan Staniski Rainbow – Amy & Jim Robinson
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
Adopt a Golden Retriever A
Star
re you interest in adopting a Golden Retriever from SEVA GRREAT? We have successfully placed nearly 2,000 Goldens since the fall of 1990. SEVA GRREAT covers the central and southeastern parts of Virginia from just west of Richmond down through Virginia Beach. If you live outside that area, you can search for a Golden Retriever rescue in your area at http://www.grca-nrc.org/.
Ready to apply? Let’s get started! Please complete our online application. We will acknowledge receipt of your online application by email, usually within 3-5 business days. Your application will be assigned to one of our volunteer Home Evaluators who will contact you to set up a time to meet with you and your family at your home. All family members MUST be present during the home evaluation. We will also want to meet any current pets during this visit.
Yukon
Star – Meg & Rob Richardson Yukon – Dean & Jill Biere
During the home visit, your Home Evaluator will discuss how we take dogs into the rescue, what happens during the foster care period, and how we schedule visits with approved families. They will ask you questions about your experience with dogs, your lifestyle, and what you’re looking for in a new dog. The Home Evaluator will also take a quick tour of your house (including garage) and yard to check for any safety issues or other concerns. If your home is approved to adopt, your Home Evaluator will work with you to help you choose the dog who is the best fit for your family. All adoption fees help cover a portion of the expenses we incur to take in and care for our Goldens. Please note: We reserve the right to decline an applicant if we feel the home situation is incompatible with the needs of a rescued Golden Retriever.
Send Us Your Photos 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. We love pictures of newly adopted dogs with their new families, too!
SPRING 2018
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SEVA GRREAT VOLUNTEER
Donna Roggmann
Donna and Woody
Where do you live? Newport News, VA What do you do for a living? I am retired from Newport News Public Schools. I still volunteer running the PAWS to READ program once a week at Greenwood. It gives me a chance to work with some great dog teams including Jim O’Connell and PJ as well as John & Pat Donaldson and Andy. I have been involved in this program since 2008 when I first met Helen and Johnnie Noles and their pack of Goldens. I think this has to be the best “job” ever! Getting to put children and therapy dogs together for a little reading - priceless! Tell us about your family. I have been married to Jack for 46 years. We were able to travel and live in many places throughout Jack’s career in the the Air Force finally retiring in this area and starting new lives here. Our two grown children live and work in the local area. We are blessed with two grandsons. One is graduating high school this year and the other willbe starting high school in the Fall. How are you involved as a volunteer for SEVA GRREAT? We have been involved with SEVAGRREAT since 1993. First as a foster home and then 6
eventually a board member. We still do the occasional home visit and recently fostered Woody. We plan to foster and adopt again. Tell us about your current Golden(s) and/or other “furry family members.” We are currently without a fur baby. Woody crossed the Rainbow Bridge in February at the very senior age of 15. The previous April we said goodbye to our beautiful Nadi. The June before we had to say goodbye to our special boy Chewie. So we are taking a little time to mend our hearts. What other Goldens/pets have you loved in the past? We fell in love with our first Golden puppy when we were stationed in England. We purchased Samantha at the age of 8 weeks. Our good friends bought her sister Buffy at the same time. Both pups lived with us for several months while our friends moved in to a house close to ours. The girls grew up together and spent a great deal of time at our house (we had a fence) Most days we wouldget a call from our friends to let us know Buffy was on her way. We would find her on our front doorstep. The joy those girls displayed when they saw each other was beautiful! They would race and body slam and play for hours. We were totally in love with the breed! Two years later, when our assignment was up, we
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
had to move again. We were so sad to break up the girls. Samantha pined for her sister and we could see she needed a playmate. We thought about a rescue and were so happy to see an add in the newspaper for SEVA GRREAT’s Golden Day Open House. It seemed to be an answer to our furbaby’s sadness. We attended the open house. There were several beautiful dogs there ready for adoption but we weren’t sure. We talked with a volunteer, Sandra Dearnley, who suggested that we might want to try fostering in order to find the perfect match for our Samantha. We filled out applications for fostering and adopting. Our first four fosters only garnered indifferent sniffs and huffs from our Samantha. She wasn’t interested in playing with or getting to know any of them. She would ignore us going so far as to turn her head away from us when we spoke to her. Sammie was clearly not happy having those other dogs in her house! Then we fostered Jasper. He was a have naked boy whose coat had been blown by severe allergies. His chin and feet were scarred and his back half was bare. But he was the sweetest boy and he loved everyone. Samantha decided he was the one and after only a fewmonths with this little boy we decided to adopt him. I learned how to give him allergy shotsand eventually his coat started to grow back until he became the gorgeous red gold boy he was meant to be. He was foster failure number one. When Samantha crossed over we decided to foster again. Penny came into our lives and she was a beautiful mess of anxieties. She and Jasper got along very well so, you guessed it, foster failure two. And then there was Chewie who came in as a neglected and abused 8 month old. He was the cutest little thing and yep, foster failure number three. Okay, not a great track record of fostering I admit. This brings us back to Nadi our fourth foster failure. And then Woody who was already 14 when we took him in to foster.
MEMBER IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Donna , Nadi and Jack
Do you have any hobbies/special interests? I love to read. I always have a book or three at hand. Recently I have started quilting and am taking some classes as I can. I like to practice yoga. I would love to travel more especially if I can cruise somewhere. SEVA GRREAT Member since? 1993 What is your favorite Golden memory or funniest thing you have done with your dog? I think my favorite memories might be the pure joy exhibited by Sammie and Buffy each time they were reunited. It was so strong it brought tears to my eyes and a smile to my face. Do you talk to your pets, and what do you talk about? Of course, doesn’t everyone? We talked about everything and anything. They were always willing to listen and offer encouragement when needed. Especially when they thought I needed to be encouraged to give them a treat.
How do you celebrate your dog’s birthday or other holidays? Does your dog dress up? Well. a canned food “cake” on their birthdays. I have a favorite picture of one of our Goldens who wasn’t really thrilled with her “cake.”She was making such a face when she tasted it! Toys and treats for holidays. Our dogs have always loved playing with wrapping paper “balls” at Christmas. They make a huge mess but they are hilarious to watch.
So fun to meet all the dogs (and people)! SEVAGRREAT picnics: I remember being surrounded by 15-20 perfectly seated Goldenswith every eye on the box of Milkbones in my hands. Such good manners and so patient! Describe the perfect day with your Golden(s)/other pets. It would have to involve a long walk in a park and a playdate with another Golden. A picnic, some wine and another walk. Then home to relax with some TV and a tired furbaby beside me.
Do you have a favorite SEVA GRREAT story/memory? Some of my best SEVAGRREAT memories are from events we worked. When Jack and I first got involved, the group was running concessions for agility trials and other events. We were helping cook and serve burgers and hot dogs. It was so much work! But we got to see the agility shows on our breaks and we got to work with some great people. Eventually the concessions stopped but the outreach at Bark-in-the-Park events continued.
What keeps you involved with SEVA GRREAT? The dogs. I am a sucker for just about any dog there is, but Goldens have such a special presence for me. The people.Those who work in this organization and keep working tirelessly; giving of themselves, year after year, really are what make me want to stay involved. Knowing that this group exists and are doing what they can to help rescue needy Goldens is reason enough.
SPRING 2018
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
h"ps://www.givelocal757.org/sevagrreat
#GiveLocal757 #GL757SelямБe 8
Save the Date WHEN: Tuesday, May 8th from Midnight to Midnight
WHAT: GIVE LOCAL 757 was created by the Peninsula Community Foundation in 2014 to provide local nonprofits serving the Hampton Roads region an opportunity to raise funds in a unique 24 hour on line event. This event allows all of us to showcase our nonprofits and the work we do and hopefully increase our donor base.
WHERE: Donate at www.givelocal757.org , select SEVA GRREAT from the Animal Category or donate at our website www.adoptagolden.com Make a donation using your credit or debit card, the minimum donation is $10.00 All donations large or small are welcome and go for the care of our Golden Retrievers.
NOTE: Bonus cash prizes are awarded based on the number of Unique Donations we receive. A unique donation is defined as being unique to a name, credit card and email address.
MAY 8, 2018
The greater the number of unique donors the greater our chance of winning the bonus cash prizes and the overall event. We encourage you to reach out to your family, friends, and co-workers, etc. and ask them to support SEVA GRREAT with a donation Tuesday, May 8th. The complete list of bonus cash prizes is available at www. givelocal757.org You can follow the 24 hour event on line at www.givelocal757.org. It’s exciting to watch the leaderboard change as the donations come in. Also follow us on the SEVA GRREAT Facebook page, all updates will be posted there before and during Give Local 757. Five things YOU can do for SEVA GRREAT be successful in the GIVE LOCAL 757 Event:
• Reach out to family, friends, co-workers
This year we are featuring five of our special Goldens: Aine, aka as Pearl, Domino, Rufus, Dusty, and Halley. Each of these five goldens has a special need that SEVA GRREAT will address to prepare them for their forever home. More details about each golden will be available on our website www. adoptagolden.com and will be posted on www.givelocal757.org as we get closer to May 8th.
• Advertise GIVE LOCAL 757 on social
SEVA GRREAT has participated in GIVE LOCAL 757 for the past two years. This event has become our Super bowl of fundraising. In two years we raised close to $30,000 in the two 24 hour events. A remarkable achievement for a relatively small all volunteer nonprofit. Also a statement about you, our supporters.
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We could not do what we do without you. Thank you for all you do for SEVA GRREAT.
and ask them to make a donation to SEVA GRREAT on May 8th. The minimum donation is $10.00
• Include the GIVE LOCAL 757 logo in your emails
media: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Tear out the poster page at left (or fold the magazine in half) and include the poster in your selfie.
Review the Bonus Prize list at www. givelocal757.org and participate in one of the contests, you just may win a bonus prize for SEVA GRREAT
• Participate in the Selfies for Good
challenge contest. Take selfies and post them on social media using #Give Local 757 and #GL757 Selfie.
SPRING 2017
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THE 2017 GIVE LOCAL 757 DOGS
Where Are They Now? L
ast year, thanks to your generous support, we were able to help the featured dogs in our Give Local 757 campaign. Below is an update on where they are a year later. RAIFE is our miracle dog who survived a fractured skull at the age of three months and went on to have life-saving surgery just after his first birthday. Raife would not have lived to see his next birthday without that surgery but live he did! He celebrated his second birthday in December. He is the spokesdog for the saying “Never give up!” Throughout the past year, Raife has continued to experience a “two steps forward / one step back” lifestyle. He is in his second loving foster home now and continues to fight some lingering issues; but if all continues to go well, Raife will be cleared medically in another month or so. He may always be a little more susceptible to life’s ups and downs than most. GRACIE, formerly known as Sadie, suffered a fractured pelvis and needed a leg brace during her recovery. By this time last year, the breaks in her body had healed, but she continued to experience neuropathy in the leg. We tried a lot of different medications to get the sore on Gracie’s leg to heal and finally accepted that she might always suffer with it and cleared her for adoption. She was adopted by a wonderful family in Virginia Beach and is “wintering” in FL. Her new family loves her and are happy to have her as a member of the family, and she loves her life with them too. The wonderful news -- the sore on her leg is now completely healed.
(blood vessel) to his liver. He had that surgery in May and was on medical hold for a period of time as he recovered from the surgery and until he could come off all medications. He went from a loveable pup to a high energy teenager and found the perfect forever home late last year. We also featured our Forever Fosters in last year’s campaign. Forever Fosters are those dogs who come to us and for many reasons are not adoptable. They may be in a hospice situation suffering from a terminal disease, they may be seniors who are in their final years, or they may be a special needs dog. They
2017
FINN came to us as a young pup (about 3 months) who needed surgery to correct a shunt
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
FINN
find a loving home with a foster family who provides love and comfort while SEVA GRREAT continues to cover their medical expenses. We are saddened to report that Bear, Charlie and Jake crossed the Rainbow Bridge during the past year. We are still caring for Mattie, Buttercup and Copper. You’ll be able to read more about their current status during this year’s Give Local 757 campaign. Thank you for all the prayers and positive vibes that you sent and all the donations that you made. These beautiful goldens, young and old, would not have made it without all of you!
MATTIE
RAIFE
GRACIE
BUTTERCUP
SPRING 2018
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Homecoming Share your pictures and stories by sending them to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com. They will be featured in coming newsletters, right here under Homecoming.
Hard to believe that these pups rescued from the Isle of Wight situation are 9 years old! Kudos to all that helped rescue 70 goldens of all ages from this backyard breeding situation. An amazing effort for sure! Happy birthday to brothers (left to right) Brody, Duke, and Henry! And we’d love to hear stories and see pictures from other IOW adopters that share(d) their love with these special goldens!
Riley is showing his age and Huck is growing up. –Robyn Beasley
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
Brothers Murphy and Laddie were picked up by Animal Control in North Carolina and taken to a shelter that contacted SEVA. They were put in separate foster homes then journeyed to their forever homes, Murphy in July and Laddie in August. In March they reunited at Laddie’s home for a play date; there is little doubt that they remembered each other. -Roni Sumner
This photo of Maddy was taken during our family photos this year by Aimee Boucher of The Cup of Sunshine. –Jacqueline & Justin Clark
Check out Alice Brown on the left with “Gracie” & Peggy Allen on the right with “Chance”, both SEVA Rescues in VA Beach, VA. Taken in Key West, FL
Barkley (in the middle) came to visit Ginger and Raife. –Quan Li Bowie (aka Rainbow) is walking better on leash and doing a good job with her potty training. She still needs some help with her manners so she’ll be working with a trainer for a couple of weeks. –Bowie’s Mom
SPRING 2018
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From Golden Woofs
What’s Up Doc? to
Tips Keep Your Senior Golden Healthy and Happy
P
ets are living longer. Many pet parents are better at paying more attention and caring for their pets health wellness. When is a dog considered a senior? A senior dog varies by size and breed. Dogs are considered a senior in the last 25% of their expected lifespan. A golden retriever has a life expectancy of 10-12 years old. What am I doing right to keep your Golden Healthy and Happy?
7 Tips to Keep Your Senior DOG Healthy and Happy
1 It is very important to EDUCATE yourself on how to care for your aging dog and be INFORMED on ailments that might occur. 2 Establish a RELATIONSHIP with your veterinarian. It is important that you trust your dog’s veterinarian and comfortable in asking any questions. It is recommended to take your senior dog for a vet visit every six months. 3
Provide your senior dog proper NUTRITION as obesity is very common in senior dog.
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5 GROOMING is particularly important for senior dogs. It is critical to have a good dental health. Regular brushing eliminates dry skin and a good way to check for any lumps or abnormalities. 6
PLAY and EXERCISE should be part of your senior dog’s daily activity. Adjust as needed. Keep in mind, “Old dogs can learn new tricks.” Mental stimulating games are excellent to use for your senior dog.
7 Make your senior dog be part of your everyday LIFE.
SUPPLEMENTS, like glucosamine and multi-vitamins/minerals, should be an essential part of your senior dog’s diet.
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
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DOG RULES
1. The dog is not allowed in the house. 2. OK, the dog is allowed in the house, but only in certain rooms. 3. The dog is allowed in all rooms, but has to stay off the furniture. 4. The dog can get on the old furniture only. 5. Fine, the dog is allowed on all furniture, but is not allowed to sleep with humans on the bed. 6. OK, the dog is allowed in the bed, but only by invitation. 7. The dog can sleep on the bed whenever he wants, but not under the covers. 8. The dog can sleep under the covers by invitation only. 9. The dog can sleep under the covers anytime. 10. Humans must ask permission to sleep under the covers with the dog.
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For Light Commercial and Residential FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR OVER 30 YEARS! CALL US AT 757-434-7723 Serving all of Hampton Roads
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.
SPRING 2018
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by Amber Kingon
How To Help Your Gain Confidence F
rom being abandoned by people they thought they could trust to surviving abuse and neglect, adopters can’t always relate to the trauma and obstacles their rescue dogs endure. Some dogs face each new challenge and path in life with optimism and courage, but others learn through past experiences to be shy and fearful. Even after making it out of the shelter and being adopted by a loving family, a lack of confidence can interfere with a rescue dog’s ability to fit in to a new life.
Signs of Low Confidence A lack of confidence in dogs manifests in multiple ways. Cowering and crying in response to a situation are obvious signs the dog is uncomfortable. They react similarly to people in that they shutdown emotionally or practice avoidance behaviors to get away from whatever the problem is. On the opposite side of the spectrum, some dogs resort to aggression. A rescue dog that lunges, barks, and growls at a specific stimulus is more likely afraid than angry. Lashing out is a defense mechanism, and their forceful show of bravado is actually a mask to their fear and apprehension. Victoria Stilwell, Whole Dog Journal, says, “The root of most aggressive behavior is fear. Combine fear with a situation where a dog 16
has not been raised and trained humanely, and the result is often a disastrous cocktail of fear aggression.”
Here are a few ways you can boost your rescue dog’s confidence. 1. Prioritize Basic Obedience Training Dogs may be notorious for their mischievous ways, but they’re actually the most comfortable when there are clear rules to guide them through life. Rules mean predictability, and knowing what’s expected of them can help stave off feelings of fear and anxiety. Whether your rescue has spent time in a home or is coming to you after years on the street, treat them as if they’ve never been trained before. Start with the most basic lessons, like “sit” and name recognition. Whether they fly through the lessons with ease or need more time to understand expectations, never use punishment-based training methods. Whole Dog Journal writes “Nothing can destroy a timid dog’s confidence faster than the application of a verbal or physical punishment; this will convince him he’s right to think the world is a scary and unpredictable place.” Positive reinforcement training will show your dog good things happen when they behave
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
in a specific way. Instead of breaking them down when they do something wrong, build them up when they do something right. Dog trainers and behaviorists recommend positive reinforcement for all dogs, and it’s especially useful for insecure rescues. It shows them they can be in control to bring about positive scenarios. 2. Commit to a Daily Routine Another way to make the environment more predictable is to establish a daily routine. Routines teach dogs structure and stability. Dogs like to know what’s going to happen when, and that simple knowledge boosts their confidence in daily activities. The world is no longer a mystery when they know what to expect, and they go about their routine knowing they’re safe. When setting up your routine, commit to a schedule you’ll be able to follow on a regular basis. If you already have a personal way of doing things, it’s easy to start incorporating your pup. Serve their meals at the same time you regularly eat, commit to playtime every day during lunch, walk when you get home from work, and make bedtime a specific time. Your pup won’t particularly care what order things happen as long as they happen the same way everyday. It’ll take at least a few weeks for your dog to trust the routine and feel confident in following it.
Rescue Dog 3. Provide Quiet Spaces As part of the family, the dog should have a place he can go that’s entirely his. When things get scary and his emotions get the best of him, he can retreat to his special spot to calm down and relax. The spot could be a kennel in a back bedroom or a dog bed in the corner of the room. It should be comfortable and quiet, and most of all, be somewhere no one can bother him. Encourage family to leave the dog alone when he goes to his “safe place” and block other family pets from invading.
associating emotions to specific situations. Good Dog Tips says, “When a pet is showing an undesirable response (barking, lunging, growling, or jumping etc), that response is usually associated with an underlying emotional state that is also undesirable. To help the pet respond in a different way, it is useful to change the animal’s association with the stimulus – the cause of the emotion – and hence, the underlying emotional state.”
every time they press their nose to your hand, they win the game and get a treat. As they get better, move your hand farther away so they have to walk, jump, and climb over things to reach the target. The challenge round is getting them to touch other objects—like a sticky note stuck to the wall.
Some dogs actively seek seclusion even when they don’t have a designated area. If you frequently find them under the bed or behind the sofa, consider that their plea for personal space. Being around people and scary situations can be overwhelming, and you can’t expect a rescue to adapt to their new environment all at once. Time alone to decompress is essential for emotional wellbeing. It’ll recharge their batteries and help them face their insecurities.
If your dog is afraid of children, start in a spot that’s close, but not too close, to a group of children playing. Make sure your dog notices the children. Before they give in to fear, distract them with their favorite version of unstructured play. When they’re happily playing with you even with their perceived threat nearby, you know you’re making progress. The goal is to gradually get closer as your dog starts relating children to fun and games instead of scary experiences.
When your pup is feeling especially nervous or is recovering from a scare, start playing the game. The feeling of “winning” the game will overshadow insecurities and teach them they’re capable of making good things happen. A lack of confidence often comes from feeling they don’t have control over what’s happening. A simple game like target teaches focus and appropriate action to trigger an anticipated result. Other confidence-building games and activities include “find it” and getting them involved with agility, lure coursing, nose work, and other structured canine sports. Succeeding in one thing builds confidence needed to overcome other obstacles.
4. Use Unstructured Play Playing is a way for dogs to exercise and let off steam, and it can also be used to teach confidence in rescue dogs. If your pup likes to fetch, tug, or wrestle but shuts down in certain situations, encourage them to play when they’re feeling afraid. Behaviorists call it counter conditioning, and it’s all about
5. Introduce Confidence-Boosting Games An easy confidence-boosting game to teach your dog is “target.” Your dog will think it’s all about getting tasty treats, but more importantly. it teaches confidence and control. For beginners, the target is your hand held directly in front of them. Teach the dog that
The most important thing to remember when raising a rescue dog with low levels of confidence is to be patient and compassionate. Change takes time, and it’s important to look for gradual improvements and not immediate results. Be understanding and positive, and your pup will learn to trust you and be open to more experiences. SPRING 2018
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2018 Calendar Rescued Golden Retrievers
www.adoptagolden.com (757)827-8561
Our 2018 Calendars Are Still Available SEVA GRREAT
Dedicated to finding homes for homeless Golden Retrievers
on the Cover: GinGer Quanzhan li and Xiaoming Wu are the proud parents of Ginger Ginger is a very well behaved and fun loving girl. Once a foster dog herself, she pays it forward by helping our foster dogs. She calms their nerves, teaches their house manners, leads the way in the park, tells them how to pose to the camera and ensures them that life is good from this point forward. She is indeed a foster sister extraordinaire!
BE SURE TO WATCH OUR WEBSITE AND FACEBOOK PAGE FOR SALE LOCATIONS AND OPPORTUNITY TO ORDER BY MAIL
www.culturecafeva.com www.culturecafeva.com 747 Scotland Street, Williamsburg, VA 23185 747 Scotland Street Williamsburg, VA 23185 757.229.8610 757.229.8610
SeVa GrreaT, inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We are an all-volunteer organization operating entirely on donations and grants. Please send donations to SEVA GRREAT, PO Box 8014, yorktown, VA 23693. Thank you for your support. 757-827-8561 www.adoptagolden.com © Copyright 2017, Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue Education And Training, Inc. All rights reserved. Contents of this calendar may not be reproduced without written Permission.
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
Updates on Our Turkey Dogs in America ANNA-BELLE
COMET From Turkey Dog Comet’s Foster Mom: We love toys! Comet plays fetch and tug of war too. He did fine with a bath, likes being brushed. He is getting along well with our herd. Walks pretty nicely on the leash. He is still a little unsure and panting, and is Velcro-ing to Mike a bunch. All in all, he is really happy to be in America
WILLIAM From foster mom of Turkey Dog William on how he is doing: William is very handsome, very smart and very fun!
Hi guys. Boy . . . the timing was great on the last issue of GRREAT Times magazine! I got the labels Thursday, magazines were here. My husband and I labeled them Thursday night and out by Friday! Unusual we can be that quick! Please note our Turkey dawg, Anna-Belle (previously Bes) wasn’t thrilled . . . she wanted more ball time! – Cheryl Lynch
SPRING 2018
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BY
How to Teach Loose-Leash • Click and treat three times for looking at you while on a loose leash. • Again, just standing with your dog on a loose leash, looking at you, toss your treats right past your dog’s nose to about three feet away. When dog eats the treats and comes back to you looking for more, click and treat by placing the food by the outside of your left foot. Move and repeat.
Oh, my aching arm . . .
Let’s play . . .
Get your dog to walk without pulling! But how? We are masters at allowing our dogs to drag us down the street. The most asked question at obedience classes and private consultations is “how can I get my dog not to pull on his leash?”
Loose-leash walking is going to begin as a game. Here are a few simple steps you will train BEFORE you do any walking with your dog:
As far as dogs and leashes are concerned, we want to arrange things so that loose leashes “pay off” and tight leashes don’t. Historically trainers encouraged folks to act like a tree the moment their dog began to pull on the leash. This method does work nicely with puppies, but it just doesn’t work for the adolescent or older dog who has learned to pull you around. The following method requires first, that all or most reinforcement will come from behind you and second, that you will toss the food to the ground—not far—so the dog has to look for it.
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• Put your dog’s leash on and just stand still. When your dog releases the tension on the leash, click and show him the treat in your hand. Let him see you place the treat on the ground by the outside of your left foot. Once he’s eaten the treat, move to the end of the range of the leash so it is taut and stand quietly. When he moves to release the tension, click. Show him the treat and place it by your left foot. You don’t care about eye contact. What you are teaching is that releasing the leash tension gets clicked and treated. Do this a number of times. • Continue to stand now that your dog is not pulling. Now you will click for eye contact. After the click, treat by your left foot. Remember after he has finished eating the treat to move to the end of the leash.
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
• Again toss the treat right past your dog’s nose. When your dog finishes eating it and turns around to come back to you, you turn your back and start walking. (Just take a few steps in the beginning.) When you dog catches up to you, but before he gets past your pant leg, click and treat. Repeat. Note: Make sure when you toss the food it goes right past the dog’s nose. This is the warm-up. Now that you have the dog following you for a few steps it is time to start walking and reinforcing behind or next to you.
Training on the move . . . Your dog is on leash. You turn away from him and start walking. Your dog follows. As the dog catches up to you and is coming up next to you—maybe even makes eye contact—mark (click) and drop the treat next to your left foot. Don’t keep moving and be sure the first few times that you let the dog know that you have food in your hand. Once he’s finished his treat, start again. Show him the treat and then turn and take a few steps away from him, walk till he catches up, drop the treat next to you or a little behind. Note: Dropping food next to your side or a little behind helps the dog to stay close to you. It prevents the dog from anticipating and
Walking forging ahead. So drop the food behind you or you can even let the dog take it out of your hand behind your back. Don’t drop the food so far away that the dog has to drag you to get it. Start again. Begin to walk in such a way that the dog is at an angle beside you or is behind you. As the dog catches up, drop the food behind you (or next to your pant leg). Once the dog has eaten the food and is coming back toward you, start walking away from him again. Try for more steps before dropping. Timing is everything! Don’t let the dog get in front of you. If he does, pivot away, wait till he catches up BUT is next to you or slightly behind you (or his nose is at your pant seam), and drop the food. Now it›s your job to increase the number of steps before dropping the food behind you. Never drop food if your dog has gotten in front of you. Work towards walking more steps before rewarding. You can vary this and reinforce while he is next to you if you wish, or toss the treat way behind you so the dog has to hunt for it and then reinforce him for catching back up to you.
Keep it up . . . As your dog gets better and you can now walk quite a distance without forging and pulling, don’t fail to reward intermittently. For your dog to walk without pulling he has to believe (because you rewarded him) that there is a better chance of good things near you than in the wide world. Use the long line if you have to control your dog and are not taking a walk. Remember, if you never let the leash get tight, your dog won’t learn that he can pull you. What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him or you! There are important benefits to walking your dog—dog walkers live longer!
Rainbow Bridge SERA SEVA GRREAT told us that you were special, and you proved it when you adopted us the moment we met. You took over the house immediately and assigned yourself many jobs, including loading the neighborhood kids on their school bus each morning, acting as the resident politician (“that dog owns this neighborhood”), kissing babies, chasing all rabbits/squirrels back to the woods, sampling Mom’s cooking, supervising the kitchen, greeting all visitors to the house, and making numerous Therapy Dog visits (especially “holding court” with the inmates at the Chesterfield jail). We never understood how you managed to fit so much into your days and still make time for us, but you always did. Your range of facial expressions was limitless – you could speak volumes with a single look. There was never a day that you didn’t do something to make us laugh. We were privileged to have you as a family
matriarch for almost 4years, which wasn’t nearly long enough. Age and illness finally combined to take you away from us the day before Christmas. The house feels empty, and we still don’t know what to do with the last bites on our plates. But we know that you’re in a place where you don’t hurt, getting constant hugs and treats. We’ll see you again someday – just wait for us.
–We love you – Mom & Dad
GRACIE This is Gracie, we rescued her in 2011 from SEVA GRREAT. She was my Copilot going to the beach and the best hand holder... She loved to be brush and pampered. She was my best friend. I will always be thankful for SEVA for introducing me to my fur-ever buddy. She crossed over the Rainbow Bridge March 2, 2018 RIP Gracie
–Kay Rowlett
SPRING 2018
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Lauren Fowler In memory of her husband, John Calisto
Dr. Kristin Gingrich, Total Footcar, P.C.
SWRMC Imaging Department In memory of our friend and coworker John Calisto
Mary Strzelecki In honor of Delilah
Ann and Andor Czompo Patricia Rowan In memory of Deb Hubbard, former Member
Sharon Peretti The Monigle Family In memory of Sailor Neal Packer Cathy Heimer In honor of Gus, Rusty, and Benji Joanne Even In memory of Sailor Neal Packer, foster brother extraordinaire for 40+ SEVA GRREAT foster dogs Dorothy Kozak In memory of John Kozak Nancy Tamse In memory of Nadi Roggmann Joe and Kathy Dictor In memory of Sera Steve and Jean Vinson Donna Gatling In memory of Zoe Nancy Weins In honor of PJ Kevin and Paula Duke In memory of our beloved Golden and in honor of our new baby, Rocky Jo Vance In honor of SEVA GRREAT’s beautiful Goldens
Donna and Preston Shifler-Jones Susan O’Donnell In memory of Lucky, Rusty, and Cody Gail and Bill Chapman In memory of Abby, Charles Gresham’s beloved Golden Jack and Donna Roggmann In memory of our foster dog, Woody. He was such a special boy and we miss him already.
Skip and Terry Cole In memory of our beloved Goldens, Samantha and Casey Scott and Michelle Grafton Lolita Minder In memory of Jasmine and my two Goldens from SEVA GRREAT, Hunter and Crystal Brenda Penca In memory of Taffy, Jack and Snow
George and Holly Korte
Fran and DJ DeCicco
George and Holly Korte
Danette Allen
Marian Kunz In honor and in memory of Murphy
Fred and Kay Ashbrook
Joe Dictor Tracy Minnich In loving memory of sweet Larry - beloved dog of Kevin and Lauren O’Neill Tour Resource Consultants In memory of John Calisto
Raymond and Catherine Kallman
Laura Spink In memory of Haley and Buster Anita Weidinger
Lois Buesser In memory of John Calisto, to honor his beloved wife Lauren and their beautiful beloved wife Lauren & their beautiful dogs
SWRMC Imaging Department In memory of our friend and coworker John Calisto
Anton Vishio In memory of John Calisto
Janet Dobson
Janet Duran In honor of Dusty. Thank you so much for giving him a second chance. Bless you all.
Fran Duman
E.Z. Heart & Soul Rescue Dusty - thank you
Eileen Walker In honor of Wyatt, adopted July 2010
Valerie Kowkabany In memory of John Calisto
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
GOLD e
GO
Fund
LD
EN O DO L DIE L OVE
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Fu
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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.
Carl and Lizbeth Jackson
James Knight In honor of Molly
Tracy Minnich In loving memory of Buddy, beloved companion of Mark McGlone and Marley, beloved furbaby of Mary and Mike Paynter
Marianne Opilla In memory of our SEVA GRREAT, Sandy
The
Deborah Debiasi
Lucia Schaefer In loving memory of John Calisto. He was a wonderful man, a loving husband, and devoted fur-father. I hope his spirit will live on in the work of SEVA GRREAT
Donald Karas
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Pinney Family In memory of John Calisto
Heidi Speece In memory of Buddy
David and Karen Demsey In memory of John Calisto
James Wilson In honor of Dr. Jane W. Hiser
Holly Golden For Dusty, the blind dog from Gloucester, VA & to cover Kelly Johnson’s pledge on Facebook. Thanks for helping him.
Jennifer Dauzier
Lisa Walker
Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign #3456
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Barbara Veltri In memory of GG, Gent, Annie, and Maestro
Dorothy Cleal Galanti In memory of Prissy and Rusty
CVC
Combined Federal Campaign #003456
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Contributions
Sponsor-A-Dog Contributors
Kimberly Beland Jeanie Pakenas Linda Peters Leslie Horton In honor of our 10 year old Golden, Colt! Debbie Wood Todd Drashner Ken Shewbridge
Domino’s Fund Carl and Lizbeth Jackson Jim and Jane Krom
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
FOSTERING — A temporary home for SEVA GRREAT dogs before they are adopted.
Membership Donation Volunteer
ADDITIONAL VOTING MEMBERS: (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 = $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: ______________________________________________________________
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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.
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For all other questions.
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SEVA GRREAT Contact Information President Jane Krom Vice President Debbie Morris Treasurer Pat Donaldson Secretary Sharon Leeman Event Coordinators: Southside: Jane Krom Peninsula: Linda Thomson Richmond: Jennifer Dauzier Microchip Coordinator Robyn Beasley Intake Coordinator Michelle Pfeiffer Foster Coordinator Katie Show Adoption Coordinator Robyn Beasley Membership Jacob Kay Volunteer Coordinator Sherry Kara Board Member vacant Merchandise Jennifer Dauzier Fundraising GRREAT Times magazine
Linda Thomson 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
merchandise@adoptagolden.com BMAL2@adoptagolden.com grreattimes@adoptagolden.com
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