GRREAT Times Winter 2021

Winter 2021

The Story of Raife

Golden Colors

Sleeping with Your Golden?

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.

3 .. President’s Message 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.

5 .. Beach House Raffle 6 .. Stunning Golden Shades

SEVA GRREAT disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors.

Submitting Stories and Photos

8 .. Out & About - Chesapeake

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!

14 10 .. 10 Common Things To Know 12 .. Homecoming

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.

14 .. Raife’s Story

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Email to: grreattimes@adoptagolden.com

16 .. The Yorktown Parade 18 .. Should I Let My Golden Sleep in My Bed?

18 21 .. Rainbow Bridge 22 .. Contributions 23 .. Membership & Volunteering ON THE COVER: fostering@adoptagolden.com 2

This is Dickens from our 2021 Calendar. He seems to be saying “so much for 2020.” Let’s hope 2021 is much better.

SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

President’s Message

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

Happy New Year!

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

Website: https://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.

H

appy New Year to all of our wonderful supporters! As much as I don’t like to hurry time, I’m very thankful 2020 is behind us!

Cheers to a much better year in 2021, with the promise of a vaccine and high hopes we will again be able to gather in larger groups!

The New Year brings us several new board members – Debbie Morris (Vice President) and Amy Meinweiser (Treasurer). Debbie has been involved with SEVA GRREAT for many years in different capacities. Amy is brand new to the rescue, but is a dog-lover with a financial background. Perfect fit for us as Treasurer, in my opinion! If you get a chance, please send them an email (addresses on the back page) to welcome them to our board.

I’m very excited to announce we are doing

another raffle for the Sandbridge house! Many thanks to the homeowners of “Sandy Pants” for offering their beach house for a week in April. Who won’t be ready for a nice relaxing beach vacation then? The raffle has a quick turnaround, since the week will need to be reserved soon after the winner is announced on February 6, 2021.

I look forward to working with all of you throughout this next year! Until we can meet again in person with our furry friends, enjoy visiting virtually with friends and family and stay safe and healthy. Here’s hoping we will be able to have our May meeting in Sandbridge!

Warm regards,

Susan WINTER 2021

3

Adoptions

Amy

Bella

Brave

Cem

Gypsy

Chase

Lola

Fox

Major

Amy – Barbara Whitney

Fox – Kimberly & Steven Pingel

Murphy – Kim Ober

Bella – Julie & Dale Farino

Gypsy – Paige & Randy Slemp

Marigold – Michele Lucado

Brave – Deb & Carlos Secrist

Lola – Tess & Robert O’Neal

Pasa – Lisa Copeland

Cem – H. Lee & Shirley Bradshaw

Major – John & Karen Glass

Lucy – Kerry & Mark Fulcher

Chase – Lauren Hedrick & Christopher McGarity

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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

Rocky – William Smith

Murphy

Pasa

Rocky

“Sandy Pants” Raffle Marigold

Lucy

Sandbridge Beach House Raffle to Benefit SEVA GRREAT Introducing an exciting fundraiser and vacation opportunity!

Raffle tickets at $25.00 each will be sold for a week’s vacation, April 10-17, 2021, in a beautiful 7 bedroom, 4 bath, dog-friendly beach house in Sandbridge!

For more information about the house called “Sandy Pants,” visit the house website through Sandbridge Blue Vacation Rentals at https://www.sandbridgevacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/sandy-pants/B205

Tickets are $25 each and will be available for sale via PayPal through our website (adoptagolden.com) and our Facebook page (Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue). You can also pay by check.

Checks are payable to SEVA GRREAT and can be mailed to SEVA GRREAT, P.O. Box 8014, Yorktown, Va. 23693.

Checks must be received by February 1, 2021. Once you purchase tickets, your numbers will be emailed to you; however, paper tickets will be used for the drawing.

The drawing will be held virtually on February 6, 2021.

Winner does not have to be present at the drawing.

For additional information, please contact Susan Stanitski at president@adoptagolden.com WINTER 2021

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Stunning Shades: Golden Retrievers Come In So Many Different Colors

Golden Retriever colors in pictures

G

olden Retrievers are a very special breed of dog. They are very smart, loving, kind, and silly. However, they also come in different shades and this is due to purely genetics.

Just like us humans, Golden Retrievers have different complexions due to genetics and pigmentation that determines the tone and shade of their fur.

The color of a dog is determined by genes that control the production of melanin named Phaeomelanin. However, there is no exact science to know what color a golden retriever puppy will grow into.

Like we stated a dog’s fur color depends on genetics and genetic inheritance that the animal gets from both parents. The foundations of inheritance were laid by Johann Mendel with the idea of an individual inheritance. This theory tells us that during 6

reproduction it is not the trait that is transmitted to the offspring but the particles within the cell that control that trait; these particles retain their identity and separateness and are passed down from generation to generation in an unchanged and constant form. So, the expression (phenotype) of a certain trait depends on the genes, on the dominant and recessive genes, and their combination.

To fully appreciate the diverse and beautiful range of Golden Retriever colors, it sure helps to see pictures of each color from very light to dark golden!

So even though we are used to seeing one particular color in Goldens it is completely normal for them to be a different color, for example black, or to have black specks all over. People don’t realize that Goldens still carry the “instructions” to produce other colors, like black and brindle.

Now enough with the science, let’s dive into all the different colors of a Golden Retriever’s fur.

SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

Dark Golden Retrievers Dark gold might be one of the most striking colors on a Golden Retriever.

Light Golden Retrievers The light golden coat color is darker than cream but lighter than the traditional gold coat this dog is so well known for.

Cream Golden Retrievers Right now, the Golden Retriever cream color spectrum is particularly popular. These Golden Retrievers are sometimes called “English” Golden Retrievers. Since the pale cream color is much more popular and prevalent in the UK than it is in America.

The cream Golden Retriever also has some subtle yet notable differences in overall appearance. For example, the cream Golden Retriever tends to be slimmer and sleeker in appearance. They have a level back and tail, ears that are more forward-set, with a wide and deep muzzle and more overall variability in height and weight between male and female dogs.

Red Golden Retrievers The red Golden Retriever has a particularly striking and memorable coat! Their coat overall tends to be shorter and straighter with less feathering on the limbs and tail. This working dog’s body also typically looks more compact and streamlined.

White Golden Retrievers The white Golden retrievers coat color is not actually a pure white. It’s rather an extremely pale shade of cream that will look pure white under some lighting conditions. It is a very popular coat color among pet owners.

The white Golden Retriever may appear very close to pure white during puppyhood. With maturity, you may see subtle tinges of gold or cream appearing in the coat. The white Golden Retriever is just as healthy as a Golden Retriever displaying any other coat color.

Black Golden Retrievers The black golden retriever is one of the traditional breeds of a golden retriever. The dogs have the same characteristics as other dogs. The glamorous black color makes them strikingly different than other golden retrievers. In fact, some consider them to be a different breed.

These dogs are not as common as compared to another golden retriever. In contrast, black golden retrievers make the perfect pet friends.

They are easy to train and have a calmer demeanor.

Black Freckle

WINTER 2021

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Out & About

Hurray! We are finally “Out & About” again

A

fter months of pausing events due to COVID restrictions, we were finally able to go out and spread a little golden cheer yesterday.

Lucy, Finnegan, Finn, Harley, Chloe, Bruno, Callie and Pogo (and their parents of course) visited the residents at The Chesapeake retirement community in Newport News.

It was a beautiful day and we all had a GRREAT time.

Bruno

Lucy

Pogo

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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

“Eastern Shore Girl” Chloe made her debut

(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

info@macvetva.com

Finnegan

804-744-4733 itsallaboutgreen@yardmasters.org

Bruno, Finn, Harley, Finnegan & Chloe bottom right.

I t ’ s

a l l

a b o u t

g r e e n

FALL 2020

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10 Common Things About Golden Retrievers 1

Golden Retrievers have their roots in Scotland.

For quite a long time, spurious stories were drifting around that the Golden Retriever was descended from Russian circus dogs. This hypothesis was exposed when the records of Lord Tweedmouth of Inverness, Scotland were published. In 1864, Lord Tweedmouth bought a “yellow retriever” named Nous and bred him with a liver-shaded Tweed Water Spaniel named Belle. The Golden Retrievers of today are likely the descendants of Nous and Belle.

Much obliged to you, Lord Tweedmouth!

As sporting canines, Golden Retrievers need loads of activity.

These dynamic members from the Sporting Group are not good for laying around. They’re always on the go, regardless of whether it’s a round of catch, long walks, swimming, or other exercise. They’re naturally athletic and they are talented for a variety of sports.

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They work hard.

Golden Retrievers are useful for everything; they can hunt, track, rescue or provide service and therapy. Regardless of that perky, sometimes silly behaviour, they adapt rapidly and can excel at a variety of skills, including search and rescue efforts in interventions or disaster sites.

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You’d need to be from another planet to not have heard about Golden Retrievers.

T

his delightful, extravagant, and loving dog is consistently among the most well-known pets. Any person who has been adored by a Golden recognizes what a dedicated buddy he is.

Golden Retrievers are the best therapy dogs.

Goldens are frequently used as therapy dogs helping to soothe and relax people. Goldens appear to have endless sympathy and genuine love. There’s simply something magical about a Golden that can quiet and solace anybody, from little youngsters to old patients.

However, there’s quite a lot more to know about this adorable breed.

Short Pump Area The Shoppes at Westgate 11761 West Broad St. Richmond, VA 23233 (804)360-8011 @doparkavenue.com

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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

•

Stony Point Stony Point Fashion Park 9200 Stony Point Pkwy Richmond, VA 23235 (804)793-8855 info@@doparkavenue.com

To Know 5

Goldens are forever puppies.

You are familiar with that puppy energy? That will in general last longer in Golden Retrievers.

As they age they never quite mature in the sense some other breeds do, so you will always have a puppy in your Golden.

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Golden Retrievers like to carry things in their mouth.

It is in the Goldens nature to always carry something in their mouths, such as balls, toys or sticks.

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As astute, athletic canines, Goldens are excellent rivals in dog games like Obedience, Agility, dock diving, and other.

10

Golden Retrievers live to eat.

Goldens are perfect in competitions.

Golden Retrievers are among the most popular pets.

The breed has kept its place in the top ten list of the most popular breeds in the United States for quite a long time, the most recent position being number three out of the total of 195. Their cousins, the Labrador Retriever, have been at the number one spot for the past 28 years.

They’ll eat anything, from the food in their bowl to toys, paper, and colored pencils. They don’t really know when to quit, so more experienced and dedicated owners will know how to portion their food, limit treats and make sure that they eat only during designated mealtimes.

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Goldens are famous for their soft mouths.

All retrievers must have a mouth “delicate” enough to get and hold game like ducks without harming it. The Golden’s mouth is so delicate, it’s said they can carry an egg in their mouth without breaking the shell.

WINTER 2021

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Fenway is doing amazing! He has the sweetest, funniest, and craziest personality and we are obsessed with him. This was certainly a match made in heaven; in our eyes, he’s absolutely perfect. We had him enrolled in a beginner’s training course before COVID happened and he passed the class with flying colors, and learned how to get a long with other.

–Cassidy Crowder & Mike Plucinski

I just wanted to send you a quick email on the 5-year anniversary of when I brought home Theo. I don’t have the words to express how loved he is. He’s doing really well, even as he starts to turn into a gray gentleman. We had a bit of a scare this summer when his liver enzyme numbers spiked, but luckily a round of antibiotics and antioxidants brought it back down to normal, and he’s been his typical playful, goofy, loving self again.

–Allison

Max (left) and Callie Walker are foster failures who now have a “ruff” life full of walks, naps on the couch, and occasional public appearances. Max came to us as a worried, anxious boy who was afraid of almost everything. I thought he could use a role model, so I requested another foster and along came Callie. They are are now a rambunctious, good natured pair of redheads who make our family of two people, two cats, and two dogs complete.

–Chris and Dan Walker

We adopted Maxwell Edison in May and from that first day we loved him. Maxwell loves hanging out with us at home, going for nature walks, swimming in lakes, being the star at family events and playing with our grandchildren. He has a special bond with our cat and our daughter’s indoor bunny.

Maxwell Edison is a gentle and sweet boy who brings us much joy!

–Jennifer Cryan

Sadie (formerly Margo) has been with us for almost ten months now. She’s loved to death and very much a part of the family. Most of her fears have been overcome. Ceiling fans don’t bother her any more, but we haven’t had a thunder storm in a long time so we don’t know about them. It took us until a month ago to get her up on the couch. Now she loves to get up with us and cuddle or get a belly rub. Five AM seems to be the time she’ll jump up on the bed and settle down between us until we’re ready to get up. She stays still and quiet until we get up, then she’s ready for the day. All in all, we are very happy that Sadie is a part of the family.

–Raymond Neubauer 12

SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

Zeke was adopte the last 9 years Z family and moved the beach. He als with the top off a along his ball! Ze him but most imp that plays with h him goodnight!

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

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

ed by Daniel 9 years ago! In Zeke has gained a complete d to Florida where he loves so loves riding in the Jeep and of course always brings eke has a family that adores portantly he has a little girl him all day and always kisses

–Daniel Weber

This week marks one year since we adopted our sweet Winnie girl and I just wanted to share what a wonderful blessing she has been for our family. The amount of love this girl has given us in the past year has been incredible.

We welcomed a new addition to our family this summer, our son Luca, and Winnie quickly made him her best friend ever. She gives him lots of kisses and watches over him constantly, it’s the sweetest thing. She thinks every Amazon delivery is for her, and even if it’s not, she’s just happy to help open the packages. She loves a good puppucino, playing with her brother Jackson, family walks, her blanket, and her backyard. She has the biggest heart and we are so thankful to you guys for bringing her to us!

–Laura Malkin

Stella just turned 10! It’s hard to believe I’ve had her 5 years already. She’s just now started to get a little lighter around the eyes - I think whatever she’s mixed with has held off the beautiful Golden white face. She’s active, healthy, secure, very protective of her home, and happy.

She’s not the “typical” Golden, but she’s perfect to me!

–Debra

We noticed Wyatt on SEVA GRREAT’s Christmas card.

That picture was taken by Quan a few weeks before we got him. We tried to recreate that picture but Wyatt was less then cooperative. We’ll keep trying while the tree is up.

Many times I have brought him to work with me. We were visiting a construction site that day. He found this mud puddle and walked through it three or four times becoming just filthy.

There was no place to wash him off so I loaded him up in the truck we drove to a 7-11 where I bought bottled water to wash him off in the bed of the truck. People walking by must have thought I was crazy. We have had some adventures and many more to come.

–Steven P. Rowe, P.E.

Chance loves looking out the front door.

–Lewis Miles

WINTER 2021

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Raife’s Story T

here are many reasons why dogs come into a rescue organization. Meet Raife, a very special Golden Retriever pup who came to Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education and Training (SEVA GRREAT) in 2017 with an unusual medical issue.

Raife was attacked by another dog when he was 3 months old while he was playing with a toy. He was bitten in his head causing severe trauma and damage to his still developing skull and brain. Raife’s young family tried to give him the medical care he needed but realized his wounds were not healing properly.

The doctors were giving him prednisone to keep his brain from swelling. Raife needed more medical attention that would be more than his family could afford. After consulting with veterinarians and extended family members, they came to the painful conclusion that Raife would need to be surrendered to a rescue that could give him the medical care he’d need to survive.

It was a difficult decision but one that his family knew was the only way he would have a chance at a normal life. Faced with mounting medical bills, a first baby on the way and job insecurity the family reached out to SEVA GRREAT for help. SEVA GRREAT was open to hearing Raife’s story. After consulting with different veterinarians it was determined that Raife would most likely need complex skull and possibly brain surgery. Raife was now 15 months old and without this surgery his life expectancy was very short. There was a good chance he would not live to see his second birthday.

After consulting with SEVA GRREAT board members and a lengthy discussion, the board decided/voted to take Raife into the rescue.

The first thing was to determine the extent of his injuries and a medical plan to save him.

The Board knew this would be an expensive endeavor and also thought it was worth the cost to give this lovable sweet pup a chance at a long and healthy life.

His foster mom and SEVA GRREAT Intake coordinator met frequently with veterinarians. It was obvious early on that this was not a normal medical procedure and would require special skills.

Raife’s medical team had performed similar operations before and were optimistic they could repair the damage to his skull.

After an initial CT scan they diagnosed Raife with missing a piece of bone between the nasal cavity and his brain, a lot of fluid and an infection was suspected. The doctors decided to use a piece of pig intestine to close the gap knowing the intestine would harden with age and act as a protective barrier to his skull.

The doctors presented the plan to the SEVA GRREAT board emphasizing the seriousness of the operation and the possible outcomes.

The surgery could result with Raife having seizure disorder and mental issues. Without surgery Raife had roughly 6-8 months to live.

With surgery he had an opportunity for a normal life.

Possible outcomes of the surgery included: • no side effects • possible seizure disorder • Inability to distinguish between nips and bites Possible outcomes if no surgery: • shortened life span • rescue would keep him comfortable until he crossed the Rainbow Bridge Raife post-surgery April 20, 2017

Raife’s Intake photo, skull damage at top of his head

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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

less than originally estimated because the neurosurgeon did not participate in the operation. The surgery was a success and Raife came through the operation very well.

A decision was made by the orthopedic surgeon and the neurosurgeon to schedule the surgery and perform a MRI the morning of the operation to determine if anything had changed and if they could or should not proceed. The MRI confirmed that the initial trauma caused the damage, there was no inflammation or infection in the head. The skull was compressed and had not changed. There was the possibility Raife would most likely have some mental impairment. The decision was made to proceed with the surgery.

The surgery took place on April 20, 2017. Dr Barnes, lead surgeon, cut Raife’s face from the forehead down his nose and laid his face open.

He removed bone fragments, sealed up holes and he rebuilt his face. The doctors did not touch his brain, they reconstructed his skull.

They did not expect any personality disorders since they did not touch his brain.

SEVA GRREAT reached out to its members and many social media supporters for prayers and financial help for Raife. The response was tremendous and Raife became one of the most popular pups on the SEVA GRREAT website and Face Book page. To this day, everyone at SEVA GRREAT feels like Raife is ‘their’ pup.

Fortunately, his family understands.

In late June 2017 Raife suffered an unrelated setback to his recovery. One evening his foster mom noticed Raife was unable to stand, he fell over every time he tried to stand up. She rushed him to the ER where he was taken in by a stretcher. The doctors performed several tests, they were unsure he would survive through the night. He was eventually diagnosed with IMPA (immune-mediated polyarthritis). It is an abnormal immune response by the body directed at the joints.

Raife was suffering from swelling and pain in all his joints. His doctors adjusted his medications and he responded quickly.

Raife was officially adopted by his forever family in April 2018. Today he is a healthy, happy typical Golden Retriever, living a typical Golden life with his forever family.

Raife is a typical Golden Retriever with all the Golden traits and is beloved by all, his family, friends and supporters that went through this journey with him.

His surgery costs were Gettying back to normal

This is Raife today!

WINTER 2021

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The Yorktown Nellie by the fountain

Lucky Thomas (red) meets friend

Grayson and Serbet

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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

Parade

Photo: Kim Maxey

WINTER 2021

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Pros and Cons 18

SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

T

his is the one of the most debated question among dog owners, and Golden Retriever owners are no exception in this case. Why should I let my Golden Retriever sleep in my bed? Do benefits outweigh risks? Is this good for me and my Golden’s health?

These are the questions every owner ask before making that important step. Co-sleeping with your Golden Retriever certainly brings some benefits, but also certain risks with it.

In this article we will list and explain all of them.

But in the end this is your own choice and you should choose what is best for your dog and you.

Dog owner community is divided by this question.

While some strongly advocate co-sleeping with your dog, others disagree.

Research done by the AKC has shown that 45% of the people welcome the dog in their bed.

Reasons Why Your Golden Retriever Should Sleep In Bed There are many scientifically proven physical and mental health benefits of co-sleeping with your Golden Retriever.

Just touching or petting your dog will increase oxytocin level in your brain. This “love hormone,” as it is often called, has positive impact on your overall psychological stability.

Sleeping with your dog can ease felling of anxiety and give sense of comfort and security.

Dogs are also great bed warmers, and that is a big plus in anybody’s book.

Studies have also shown that petting and close contact with your dog improves survival rates after life threatening surgery.

On top of all this letting your Golden Retriever sleep in bed with you will substantially improve and strengthen bond between you.

Letting your Golden Retriever sleep in bed with you will increase the duration of contact between the two of you. Thus increasing it’s overall effects.

What Are The Risks Of Letting Golden Retriever Sleep In My Bed?

Recent studies performed in Australia have shown that both human and canine heart rate gets lower when we are together. Three human subjects together with their canine companions were subjugated to this test.

We can divide risks of co-sleeping with your Golden Retriever in three distinctive categories: Risk of infection and allergies, Sleep deprivation and Behavioral issues

Researchers separated pairs for a certain amount of time. Then they reunited them, while recording heart rate data all the while. After collecting and analyzing the data researchers have shown that both human and dogs experienced immediate relaxation upon seeing each other.

Risk Of Infections And Allergies One of the main points that drives people away from allowing their Golden Retriever to sleep in bed is the risk of infections.

While the studies have shown that transmission of disease from dog to human and vice versa is possible, this transmission is very rare. Also, there is no clear correlation between co-sleeping and disease transmission.

continued on next page

Should I Let My Golden Retriever Sleep in My Bed? WINTER 2021

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Should I Let My Golden Retriever Sleep in My Bed? continued There is always possibility you, your partner or your family member have dog allergies. In that case co-sleeping and sharing bed with your Golden Retriever is of course out of the question.

Although, recent studies have shown that dog’s presence in the bedroom may not be disruptive to human sleep, as was previously suspected.

bed can cause them to display dominant and possessive behavior. In most cases this is not true.

Well trained and well educated dog will never have problems with this kind of behavior.

Quality Of Sleep

Behavioral Issues

Quality of sleep is another reason many refuse notion of sharing bed with their dog. Unlike humans that are monophasic sleepers, dogs are polyphasic sleepers. This means they don’t have one sleeping period during 24 hours like we do, but three to four sleep/wake cycles per nighttime hour. Also, dogs stay alert to the sounds even if they are sleeping. They will wake up few times during the night, and this can affect quality of your sleep. Especially if you are light sleeper.

There is still an ongoing debate about premise that letting dog sleep in your bed can cause problems with separation anxiety. Direct correlation, though, can not be found.

I hope this article helped you see both sides of the story. Letting your Golden Retriever to sleep in bed with you certainly has it’ pros and cons.

Since every man, and every dog for that matter, has different personality, there is no clear conclusion to whether you should or should not co-sleep with your dog.

Did sleeping in bed caused separation anxiety or did the excessive attachment caused owner to let the dog sleep in bed in the first place?

There are some claims that letting your Golden Retriever use your favorite place or sleep in your

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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

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Analyse all the pros and cons before you make this decision. If there is more positives than negatives in this, regarding you and your dog, then why not? If co-sleeping with your Golden is not your cup of tea, don’t do it.

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.

Rainbow Bridge

BENTLEY

GINNY

HAPPY

It was so hard to say goodbye to our sweet Bentley! He was a handsome dude, full of life, had a calm demeanor, loved the girls and was a master escape artist. How could you not love him! He fit right into our home with the rest of our pack and he will be missed by all of us.

In May of 2020 we said good bye to our beloved Ginny, who adopted us via SEVA GRREAT in Oct of 2012 when she was about 18 mo’s old. We had almost seven years of fun and laughs and play with this one of a kind girl. She took our house and our family as her own instantly, and always looked out for us. She was smart as a whip and had a great sense of humor – never have we met a dog with so much personality. Sadly cancer showed up in May of 2019, but the great folks at Dogwood Emergency Veterinary Center and The Oncology Center removed the tumor and provided for another healthy, happy pain-free year for Ginny. Also shout out to our 20+ yr family vet Dr. Neal Rose and Broad St. Veterinary Hospital. We miss Ginny every day but we look forward to adopting again, which we know she would want too!

My two youngest grandchildren consider

–John and Pat Donaldson

SIMBA We adopted Simba (“Buddy”) in 2011 and he recently passed on Dec 5th. He was such a sweet dog and wonderful companion. Thank you SEVA GGREAT! He will be greatly missed.

–Kelly Reynolds

Happy there dream dog because they dream of someday having their own Happy Dog. When the boys were here there was no stopping the old fella. Happy had to be in the middle of whatever the boys were up to. He was a sweet and oooh so patient a fella.

As Happy passed, I told him to look for his GRREAT brothers Dodger, Mickey and Bailey.

–Peggy Whitehead

–Harry, Heather, Hampton and Hadley Turton

WINTER 2021

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Contributions Sazshy Valentine bluewhaleoceana Connie Brewer Michael Brooks Kimberly Owens Susan Stanitski Windhound Photography Richard Burton In support of Forever Foster - Maxwell Strong Rebecca Thomas In support of China dogs Ann Czompo Steven Rowe In honor of our wonderful Wyatt Dave & Peggy Main In memory of Hattie, Maddy, Rusty and Scotch Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation Carl Jackson

CVC

Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign #3456

Combined Federal Campaign #003456

Christine & Eric House In memory of Bill House, and Baxter, Trevor & Bruin House, too. In honor of Hank House, SEVA Adoption

Jan Hathcock

Robin Wilcox

Cathy Heimer In honor of Benji, Rusty & Gus

Nadine Kowai

Chri & Michelle Clary In honor of our goldens, Tyler & Sadie

Christina Price

Marsha Witcher Clayton Clemens

Diane Lingle Janet White Carol Johnson In memry of Brian Mathews, with deepest sympathy Ann Woleben In memry of Brian Mathews, with deepest sympathy

Harrison & Mary Owens In honor of Dottie Cleal

Mike Warren In memory of Maria B. Warren

Scott Locklear

Sharlene Johnson

Ray T. Sorrell, Sr.

John Madures

The Millers In memory of Ted

Margaret Ely Cynthia Bruno

Sarah Taylor

Margaret Whitehead

Jane & Jim Krom

Jull Bieri

Heidi Speece In memory of Buddy

Susan Reynolds-Sherman

Nancy Sezginalp Dedicated to the ememory of Domino

Sheila Biscak

Angela Pomeranz

Cathy & Bay Rowe In honor of Toby, our rescue from 1015 & in memory of Dakota, our first rescue

Danette & Jerry Allen

Lisa Tucker

Mary Connell In memory of Bailey & Fergie Connell

Jacob Kay Richard Burton

Merrix Family In honor of Cooper & Ashley, adopted from SEVA GRREAT

Mike & Lee Anne Lamkin

Diane Trinko Joe & Joyce Sabol

Mike Zinski In honor of Floyd, Roger, Dakota, Stanley & Gracie

Sean & Karen Killeen In memory of Cooper Killeen

Linda & Brian Thomson In h memory of Sandpiper, Jake & Shea

Karen Luvaas & Peter Kucera

Marc Villamiel & Alan Rudnick

Patricia Winters

The Martin Agency

Anne Will

Alicia Brooks

Ann Hobson

Joe Dictor In honor of Sandi Pittini and her dogs

Brenda Penca

Jill Smith

Mark & Patricia Seelenbinder In honor of Chester

Jill Hoehlein

Ruth Anne Rummel In memory of Shelby & Abby, our goldens

Teresa Thompson

Jean MoranJean Morgan In honor of the contibued wordwide rescue of goldens

Linda Shore

Mr & Mrs Dixon Morrow Jo Vance Thanks for all the dogs you have rescued from situations that many of them would not have survived Beth Pirtle In memory of Sinan Aritamur’s father Karen Luvaas & Peter Kucera In memory of Nelson McCoy in support of Maxwell Strong’s medical care

Nancy Keller Mary Anne Lambert In memory of Peter Lambert Fidelity Charitable Grant given at the recommendation of the Susan Deane Giving Fund Bob & Cammie Hendricks In memory of Randy, Daisy and Suzie Nansi Strickland Mary Lou Calhoun In memory of George L Haggerty, Maggie and 2 rescues (Tucker & Jenny) Mary & Ron Mathews In honor of granddog, Banner Barbara Talley Elizabeth Kulnis Downes In support of all SEVA GRREAT does to save the needy among this wonderful breed Heather Brown Susan Burton George Mamangatis In honor of Ann Czompo

Patricia Rowan K. F. Emory In memory of Winston Sharon & Journey Johnso In honor of our rescue, Finn Dr. Eileen O’Donnell In memory of Kathleen O’Donnell David Niles

Penny Crampton Alegra Havens Valerie Williams

Karen McCarthy

Connie Brewer Danise Elias

Angela Strzelecki Beth Munford In memory of Kahuna, my neighbor’s beloved golden

Mary Pat Harris Elizabeth Munford Sally Hall

Jim & Sheila Kingsley In memory of Millie, Streak, Goose, Sundance & Toby James & Kristi Packer In memory of Sailor Marc & Jennifer Dauzier Barbara & Phillip Oestreich In memory of Meckenzie David Simmons In memory of Pamela Simmons Karen & Chess Harris In honor of Carly Susan Poole In memory of Charley

Kelly O’Brien

Allen Brantley In memory of Frisco & Annie

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Timothy Kosarsky

Tracy Minnich

Rhonda King In memory of my boys, Apollo & King

Kathleen Wolff

Laura & Rick Spink

William Harper

Eclipse Services, Inc.

SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

2021 Calendar

RESCUED GOLDEN

RETRIEVERS

www.adoptagolde n.com (757) 827-8561

It’s not too late to get your 2021 calendar!

Just go to our website at adoptagolden.com or fill in the form on page 23.

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: _____________________________________________

and volunteer here!

(Check appropriate boxes)

Address: ___________________________________________ City, State, Zip: _ ______________________________________

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

E-mail: _____________________________________________

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

Home Phone: ________________________________________

HOME EVALUATION –– visits for foster/adoption applicants.

YOU CAN RENEW HERE

Work Phone: ________________________________________ This is a new membership Address Change ADDITIONAL VOTING MEMBERS: (E-mail needs to be unique to vote.)

Name: _____________________________________________

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 events, 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.

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 activities and 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

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SEVA GRREAT Contact Information President Susan Stanitski Vice President Debbie Morris Treasurer Amy Meinweiser Secretary Sharon Leeman Event Coordinators: Southside: Jane Krom Peninsula: TBD 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 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 medical@adoptagolden.com merchandise@adoptagolden.com fundraising@adoptagolden.com grreattimes@adoptagolden.com

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