GRREAT Times Fall 2018

Fall 2018

Introducing Our New Medical Coordinator • A Month in the Life of a Rescued Golden • To the Sea at The Neptune Festival

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

3 .. President’s Message

6

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

4 .. Adoptions

To contact the newsletter editor with suggestions, comments, or send materials and photos for inclusion, send an e-mail to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com, or write Attn.: Newsletter Editor, PO Box 8014, Yorktown, VA 23693.

6 .. Our New Medical Coordinator

SEVA GRREAT disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors.

8 .. Riley

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Submitting Stories and Photos

10 .. A Month in the Life

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!

12 .. Homecoming 14 .. Tassie

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 .. The Neptune Festival

16 18 .. Heart Disease

Email to: grreattimes@adoptagolden.com

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20 .. Rainbow Bridge 22 .. Contributions 23 .. Time to Renew

Your Membership

ON THE COVER: fostering@adoptagolden.com 2

That’s Nina welcoming us to fall. You can learn more about her on the September page of our just released new calendar for 2019. You can purchase your copy of the calendar using the form on page 23 of this magazine or at our upcoming events.

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

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

President’s Message H

Happy Fall

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 ith thislike change of “paws seasons, I was other goldens us. So, up” for your reminded of an old quote….

“The only GRREAT work, and here comes mom……. thing that is constant is change”. Don’t ask me who to saidbelieve it, butthat I think it rings true for all It’s hard March is almost over, of us in so many ways. and soon we’ll be in the 2nd quarter of 2018.

SEVA GRREAT Supporters

W 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

Lots of good things are happening this year So - in mywe’ve never-ending to figure out – already rescued struggle 15 goldens, and 11 what to write for the president’s message, have found their forever homes. Of the 15 I look back some my observations/trends intakes thisonyear, 11ofhave come all the way since I first joined SEVA 2009. from Istanbul, Turkey. YouGRREAT may beinnoticing And for thoseinofinternational you not familiar with my the increase transports obsessive-compulsive tendencies, it comes with a table!

As you can see, our overall number of intakes has been declining (until this year), and has taken on a more “international” flavor. As mentioned in the past, we remain committed to each and every golden/golden mix in our local area that we can possibly help. We respond to everyone that contacts us about a golden in need, and network with fellow golden rescues for those dogs that are out of our reach. While our overall “numbers” may be down, so many of our goldens arrive with Year

Total # Intakes

extraordinary medical needs – we all know and love Raife, Domino, and our latest special guy “Maxwell Strong”. There are SO many others that we have helped along the way, and we couldn’t do it without you.

One other key area change hasenough been felt and wondering why.ofAren’t there by our hard-working board members.

We local goldens needing our help? The honest have recently experienced turnover in answer is “no.” It is becoming rare formany the key including our foster intake localpositions, shelters to turn a golden overand to rescue, coordinators.one Wethat haveis had new volunteers particularly young and considered to jump in and help with fundraising, events, highly adoptable. We are much more likely home evaluation, fostering, etc. The list is endless and inevitable with any volunteer group, but we tend to rise to the challenge.

I can’t thank you enough for all your support, so stay tuned in the coming months. Due to “term limits” and changing trends within our rescue, we are working on revisions to our bylaws to be presented very soon. We will again be recruiting for board positions, and count on you to help keep our mission going!

Jane

Local Shelters/Owner Surrender

Rescues from Turkey

2007

81

81

-

2008

105

105

-

2009

140

140

-

2010

133

133

-

2011

126

126

-

2012

123

123

-

Every effort will be made to put your ad in the desired issue.

2013

79

79

-

2014

75

75

-

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.

2015

64

62

2

2016

51

44

7

2017

44

32

12

2018 YTD

71

42**

29

Email requests, size and specification questions to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com.

Other Special Cases

Includes Isle of Wight Rescue – 70 goldens from backyard breeding operation

**includes 22 puppies from 3 separate owner/shelter litters

FALL 2018

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Adoptions

Aida

Sophie

Reisling

Elsie

Frankie

Cooper

Riva

Biscuit

Sandy

Sophie – Tess & Robert O’Neal

Aida – Margaret Looney

Cooper – Kevin & Amy Clark

Riesling – Kathy Speak

Elsie – Sarah Watson

Riva – Deborah Wright and Lewis Federico

Frankie – Leslie & Anthony Vladu

Biscuit – Christen & James Foy

Sandy – Ann Supersano and Bill Kavaky

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

Owen

Cami

Millie

Scout

Seely

Harley

Jasmine

Max

Owen – Malia & Phillip Meng

Cami – Jacob & Jenny Kay

Harley – Roxanne & John Hile

Scout – George & Elaine Rector

Millie – Sue & Art Spooner

Jasmine – Sarrah Nameth

Seely – Deb Van Dover

Max – Cheryl & Tony Spivey

FALL 2018

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A Dog’s Bedtime Prayer Now I lay me down to sleep, The king-sizeed bed is soft and deep.

I sleep right in the center grove, My human beings can hardly move.

I’ve trapped their legs, they’re tucked in tight, And here is where I pass the night.

No one distubes me or dares intrude, Til morning comes and “I want Food!”

I sneak up slowly to begin, And nibble on my human’s chin.

For mornings here, it’s time to play, I always seem to get my way.

So thank you lord, for giving me, This human person that I see.

The one who hugs me and holds me tight, And shares their bed with me at night.

SUPPORT OUR GOLDENS!

via the links on our Home page www.adoptagolden.com.

Send Us Your Photos

Your support/purchases through these links provide ongoing donations to SEVA GRREAT and help homeless Goldens find a home! (At no additional cost to you) Every purchase through the AMAZON link on our Home page ensures a donation to SEVA GRREAT (generally 4-6% of purchase, based on monthly volume of sales)

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!

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KROGER REWARDS Click the link www.Krogercommunityrewards.com on our Home page, register your Kroger card. Each time you swipe your card at a Kroger store, SEVA GRREAT will get a small donation BENEFIT WINES/CHARITY WICKS Click on the links under Ads/Affiliates on our Home page WOOFTRAX/WALK-FOR-A-DOG Click on WoofTrax under Ads/Affiliates. Download the app and register to walk for SEVA GRREAT. SEVA GRREAT is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding homes for homeless Golden Retrievers. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

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

Introducing Beth Rogers

OUR MEDICAL COORDINATOR

I

want to introduce myself as the Medical Coordinator for SEVA GRREAT. This is a new position for the organization, and I am absolutely thrilled to be serving in this role. In this capacity, I oversee the health and medical needs and services for the dogs in our care and work very closely with the other members of the team to ensure our dogs get the best we can provide for them. This involves not only management of the dogs needs but support for the foster families who are a critical part of our work. We couldn’t do it without them!

A little info about me: My name is Beth and I have been a registered nurse for a long time and a dedicated lover of golden retrievers for even longer. I am a university professor, administrator, and researcher with a special emphasis on chronic illness and helping people live the best lives they can. Early in my career I worked in intensive care settings, but over time realized I really wanted to try to keep people out of ICU rather than work with them once there. My clinical work and research, along with my own personal interests, incorporate a broad perspective of health and

wellness. This emphasis translates very well to our golden retrievers who, as we know, are prone to a number of health challenges but who also deserve the opportunity to live the best life they can.

I fell in love with my first golden when I was about 8 years old and have had the pleasure of sharing my life with 5 now. I have done obedience competitions and therapy work with my goldens and, sadly, have a lot of experience with their health issues, too. Mostly, I just cherish that incredible golden spirit. My idea of fun is sharing new experiences with my dog and watching him continue to bloom (he is a rescue who came with a lot of baggage) and, of course, reading research about veterinary and other health issues.

It takes a dedicated team to help a golden in need, and SEVA GRREAT has an absolutely amazing group of volunteers who make GRREAT things happen for our goldens. I am honored to work with this incredible group of people to assist in managing the health needs of the dogs in our care.

FALL 2018

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Riley The Unexpected Dog That Became T

he phone call came out of the blue – a vet’s office in Toano had a golden retriever that had just been surrendered by its owners, and SEVA GRREAT needed someone immediately to pick him up and hopefully foster him. Our family just two weeks earlier had lost its beloved family golden to a very sudden cancer diagnosis and was still very much in a state of shock. Riley’s owners had come to the vet that morning asking that he be put down because of seizures, but when the doctors saw that he was a generally healthy dog and also knowing that medications could

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

a True Friend to All help to control the condition, they knew that he needed another chance with a new family.

And that was how the fates brought Riley and us together at the very exact moment when absolutely we needed each other. After a brief time fostering Riley, we became “foster failures” and adopted him. He had found his permanent home and we had found our new dog!

As with many rescues, the backstory or lack thereof created some early challenges. Some of the previous owner paperwork said that he was female (Not!) and maybe 6 or 7 years old, and a thrown ball elicited nothing but disdain from this “retriever.” We knew that this sweet dog with his rough and ragged coat and sometime anxiety of other dogs meant that we had some work to do. As we worked in those first days to feed his body and soul, both his silky coat and true loving personality began to emerge. Although Riley had little interest in other dogs, an open hand or a child’s laugh drew him in immediately like a magnet. This was truly a Velcro dog of the highest order!

With his endless reservoir of affection, we knew that Riley had the potential to become a wonderful therapy dog, but he would first have to overcome his anxiety over other dogs.

Thus began months of immersion in public settings and spaces to help calm his fears and also earn his complete trust. It was far from a straight path with both progress and backward steps , but determination carried the day and he successfully passed the required

certification tests. Once turned loose in a hospital, nursing home, school or rehabilitation center, Mr. Riley, as he came to be known, was absolutely in his element, eagerly and happily greeting and comforting thousands of people.

After several years on the job, Riley had one last surprise for us. When asked to help and show around a new handler and therapy dog team at the hospital, we were happy to help. That’s when Riley met Kate, a beautiful cream colored British golden retriever! Given his background and history, he were amazed when Riley became totally smitten with the newcomer at first sight and the two became

inseparable. There has never been a cuter Mr. and Mrs. Claus therapy dog couple! This special friendship made his final years all the more happy. It was truly quite a journey from those first tentative and frightful days seven years ago when we looked into his quaking eyes and asked him to trust us.

Riley crossed the Rainbow Bridge in July due to an aggressive form of abdominal cancer.

We miss sweet Riley but feel honored to have had him be part of our family,

–Barbara and Jeff Raliski

FALL 2018

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A Month in the Life (or Why It Takes a Village)

Part 1

I

magine for a minute that you cannot speak, and when someone speaks to you, you only understand a few key words (sit, down, walk). Regardless, you are living a happy life with parents and maybe a brother or sister or a whole family of siblings. One day your family takes you for a drive, something you normally look forward to, but this time is different. Instead of going to the park or the pet store, you go to a doctor’s office – and not 10

your doctor that you know either – a strange doctor’s office. There is another stranger there that pets and praises you, but a stranger still.

He and your parents sign some paperwork, and then they both leave – and another stranger takes you back to a big dorm room.

You have your own bed and space but the other kids are so loud and noisy and you don’t understand any of it. After a few hours (that seems like days), a doctor checks you out

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

and then… you go with another stranger to a strange house…

That’s the best-case scenario. A worse scenario… you get lost. You ran away for the pure joy of running free, but now you don’t know where you are. You can’t find your way home. You’ve had to dodge a couple of cars and you’re scared. Eventually, a nice man calls you over and takes you to that same dorm

of a Rescued Golden

By Sharon Leeman

room (and now you really are there for days), but your family never comes for you. Maybe they don’t know where to look. Maybe you ran so far, they can’t find you. You’re very sad. You have no idea if you will ever have a home again.

Worse yet, your family took you for a ride, but instead of giving you to a nice stranger, they put you out of the car, told you to stay, and drove off. You are still “staying,” waiting for them to come back, when a stranger (in a uniform!) puts you in a car. Now you feel like you’re really in trouble, but what did you do to deserve this. Either way, you end up in the same strange dorm room, and you still end up, days later, going home with a stranger. A nice stranger, but you don’t feel good. She gave you a nice bed, but it’s not your bed. She offered you food, but it’s not your food, and your stomach hurts. You’re nervous and you ate too fast because you weren’t sure when you would eat again. You didn’t eat for several days after your family left you. You didn’t mean to pee on her floor. You do know better. You just didn’t know where the door was.

This is your new life! At least, it’s an interim life. You begin to trust the stranger. She really is nice. She feeds you, and plays with you, and takes you for walks. She gives you a bath and brushes your fur until it’s soft. She teaches you the new house rules, which you’re eager to learn. You even meet her family – a brother or sister who belongs there – like you once belonged to another family, and they are nice to you too – as long as you don’t take their toys! You learn what’s expected by watching them. It’s getting better. You feel better.

Even though you still can’t understand what happened to your other family and you miss them, you start to trust this new “mom.” You realize you can be happy again.

That’s how “A Month in the Life of a Rescued Golden” starts. The “Village” is all the people – intake, foster, medical and adoption coordinators, the vets and foster homes, our volunteer coordinator and the volunteers, and the adoptive family -- who care for a dog on its journey to a new forever home. Here is their story…

Intake . . .

The first contact comes to Michelle Pfeiffer, our Intake Coordinator. It may be a call to the hotline number from a family that needs to rehome their dog or it may be a call from a shelter with a golden who has come in as a stray. Michelle will have a lengthy conversation with the family that contacts us. She will also have the family fill out an intake form that provides information on the dog. She will learn as much as she can about the temperament and living conditions of the dog so that she can convey to our Foster Coordinator, Debbie Morris, what the dog needs in a home and what the foster family can expect. While Debbie begins the search for the right foster home, Michelle works to establish a date for the family to surrender the dog and sets up the intake exam at one of our participating vets.

All dogs are fully vetted when they come into rescue.

If the call comes from a shelter, usually there is very little information she can provide to Debbie or the foster home. With a dog in a shelter, it is more likely Michelle who is being proactive, calling them and letting them know we are interested, that we want the dog and finding out what she can – where the dog was found, when the stray hold is up, whether the shelter is going to adopt out the dog, whether they are willing to surrender him to us, etc.

With the power of social media, the first contact now is often a PM to the SEVA GRREAT Facebook page or a post on another Facebook page that is tagged and forwarded.

“There’s a dog in a shelter in this county -looks like a golden to me.” “There’s a golden on a Lost & Found pet page – can we find out about him?” “Can we get this dog?” “Can we help this dog?”

In those interactions, you are starting to see the beginning of the Village – the SEVA GRREAT community -- relaying information and offering help. Other volunteers may take a more hands-on role in the intake of a dog. Michelle may contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Sherry Kara, to arrange for a volunteer to meet the “give-up family” at the vet to formally take possession of the dog for the rescue. If the family can’t get the dog to the vet, or the give-up family is in one part of our coverage area (e.g., Hampton Roads) and the foster family is in another (e.g., Richmond), Michelle will ask for transport volunteers to take the dog, sometimes 2-3 volunteers covering segments, depending on the length of the trip. If the dog is at a shelter, another volunteer (i.e., a board member) will visit to assess the dog and do a “shelter pull” (formally taking possession of the dog from the shelter).

Once the dog is legally in our possession and is vetted by one of our participating vets, the shift from Intake to Foster and Medical begins.

Michelle sets up the initial exam, but then the vet and the foster begin to work with Debbie, and our Medical Coordinator, Beth Rodgers.

Part 2, coming in the next issue of GRREAT Times, will include additional parts of The Village – Fostering, Medical, and Adoption.

FALL 2018

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Sweet Aida, now known as Eva, with her new family. This is like Christmas morning . . . joy all around –the Looney Family

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

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

We are so happy to have Barkley in our family! Barkley is a happy dog that is always wanting to play! He loves walking and playing with his sister Maddie! He loves his toys and will bring them to anyone in the house to play.

We love the happy energy he brings to our house! Thank you to SEVA GRREAT and Barkley’s foster family!

– The Melroys

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

Sweet Lucy ! She was 6 when we got her now she’s 11. Love her sooo much !

– Jennifer Thomas Hepler

This is Pint (formerly known as Pete) we adopted him as a senior dog in 2010. He was a lumpy old man with short legs and barracuda reflexes when food was in sight. He crossed the rainbow bridge in 2012 but he lived out those last days being spoiled to pieces.

– Jenny Shieldmaiden Our sweet Gracie adopted from SEVA a year and a half ago. She loves our grandson Elliott as much as he loves her!

– Michelle Pfeiffer

Sweet Buddy loves to pose for the camera, but Sophie likes to try to photobomb. We adopted both of our furbabies from SEVA Grreat.

– April McLeod Knowles

FALL 2018

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Tassie I

t has been three years since a frightened little girl stole my heart—three wonderful years. When I first met her at the foster home, I was not sure that I could rise to the task of making her feel secure, of making her understand human love, of making her a real dog whose tail would wag rather than be tucked under her tummy. Now three years later Tassie not only wags her tail, not only is secure and is a total Velcro dog, but she also rules our house.

I was guided to Tassie in an unusual way.

John and I had just lost our almost 13 year old golden Ally. Roxy and Max, our other 14

By Roni Sumner

two former SEVA dogs, occupied our days, and mentally I felt that two dogs were enough. With just two it was a bit easier to walk and to plan the day, but though Ally was physically gone, she still had a say so in our daily activities. The second day after I had closed her eyes forever, I heard Ally’s distinctive woof. It was not my imagination, and her message was clear — there was another golden that needed us. I looked at the available dogs for adoption list (there were quite a few), and for some reason my eyes just flew to the T’s. There was Tassie’s bio and picture; there was my future princess.

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

We were approved by the fosters to visit Tassie.

I love walking miles with my canine friends, but Tassie was afraid of the leash and would run as quickly as her little legs would carry her to avoid it. My first impression upon seeing her was that she was beautiful though very thin, but I was worried that we might never get to stroll together so fearful was she. However, my heart was with her, and eventually the adoption proceeded and the love affair began.

Tassie soon learned to adore the leash for it meant fun things were coming. A whole new world opened to her. There were many sights and sounds that put her into flight mode, but with repeated exposure and with gentle words and reassurances, each day gave Tassie new courage. It was not, however, just my working with her that helped her to bridge the river of fear that she knew; in addition to what I did she emulated her two new siblings Roxy and Max. They showed her what to do. She watched and learned. Soon she was no longer afraid to drink from the same two water bowls

from which they lapped their water; soon she confidently gobbled her meals right by Roxy’s side and learned that she was not allowed to touch Max’s food as he ate more slowly and needed his nourishment as well. Soon she happily pranced along with them clocking in four to six miles of walking each day. Soon she learned to cuddle and a new happiness enveloped her face.

Tassie by no means was the class valedictorian in her training lessons. While she did earn her AKC Canine Good Citizen certificate, she found little sense in walking in a large circle beside my side. However, when it came to recall work or nose work she was wildly eager to engage as that all meant treats! I had toyed with the idea of her becoming a therapy dog as Roxy and Max were, but she was sweet yet not overzealous when meeting strangers, so I set that idea aside.

Tassie was 7 ½ years old when she joined our family. In the three years that she has been with us, she has learned the message

of Pay It Forward. As once Roxy and Max helped her, she in turn took our latest rescue Murphy under her wing and has enabled him, another very shy dog, to become well balanced. At first she found him annoying and voiced her displeasure, but that quickly turned to adoration, and the two are nearly inseparable. She has greatly helped him to not fear the outside world, to let him know that cars and people are not his enemy, and to assure him that he is in the perfect home.

Tassie has assumed Roxy’s role now as head of the household. She instructs me when meals should be presented, she complains if snacks are late, and she keeps the two boys in line. It is she who must be snuggled closest to me and will nudge the other two out of her way if necessary. This was the shy girl who cowered under tables at her foster’s home not too long ago. The power of love and patience has yielded a secure family member. Sassy Tassie now fears nothing. The world indeed has become her oyster, and she smiles and wags her tail in approval.

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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.

FALL 2018

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Lots of socializing.

Welcome to our booth.

Ahhh . . .

The ocean breeze.

Hey! She’s got food!

Can’t get enough of those pats on the head.

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

The Neptune Festival Geetings from Virginia Beach

A new friend.

Look at all the people on the boardwalk.

Maybe one will adopt me.

I’m more adorable than that phone?

Getting ready for the beach and sun.

FALL 2018

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Dilated Cardiomyopathy heart disease In dilated cardiomyopathy, the heart enlarges (dilated) which makes the heart (cardio) muscles (myo) damaged or sick (pathy). A simple description of this condition is that the muscles of the heart enlarge which causes them to weaken. As a result, the heart does not pump properly. That leads to poor circulation of the blood throughout the body and the kind of damage you would expect with a poorly functioning heart. If you are familiar with heart failure in people, the process and outcome is the same in dogs.

The heart has to work harder yet it continues to be less effective as it pumps. Fluid builds up in the lungs and other body parts, and a dangerous process leading to heart failure ensues. The valves in the heart may start to leak and the dog starts to show the same signs of congestive heart failure that we see in people.

R

ecent news about a possible link between diet and a particular form of heart disease has drawn more attention to a longstanding problem in our beloved goldens. Social media has been loaded recently with mention of grain free diets being bad for the canine heart and warnings to stop feeding diets of that type. Whether or not grain free is beneficial or necessary is the subject for another post.

For now, let’s look at this current news. The concern about diet and a form of heart disease 18

referred to as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) actually has a history dating back to the early 1980s with research ongoing since that time. Recognition of DCM occurring in some unique circumstances recently has led to new attention being given to this condition and a possible connection to diet. Golden retrievers are one of the breeds that may be predisposed to developing this dreadful condition. Let’s take a look at the heart disease part of this story and then the dietary component.

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

Early in this process there may be no symptoms, or the dog may seem to tire more easily, pant more, or not tolerate exercise as well. Your veterinarian may notice a heart murmur. As the disease progresses, there can be episodes of coughing, panting or heavier breathing, weakness or fainting.

The dog becomes at risk of sudden death without treatment or if activity is not moderated. The heart may develop an abnormal rhythm which can lead to sudden death even without the other symptoms. Proper diagnosis and early intervention are critical to at least slow progression to heart failure and minimize the risk of sudden death. Treatment is very similar to treatment of humans with heart failure and includes medication and activity restriction. The disease usually is progressive, meaning it will continue to get worse. Medication can slow the progression, but it cannot restore a healthy heart.

and diet link?

A particular array of amino acids is critical to healthy heart muscle as well as to other body components and functions. Taurine is an amino acid that is especially important in cardiac function and is the amino acid of concern with the possible link between diet and DCM. Dogs usually can create taurine from other amino acids so it is not typically added to prepared foods. Cats cannot, so it is common to see taurine on the list of ingredients on cat food labels. Some dogs have problems synthesizing taurine, however, and there is evidence that golden retrievers, at least some of them, may be genetically predisposed to an inability to synthesize this important amino acid. That means they need to get it through their diet or through supplements.

Over the last decade or so there has been some evidence of a possible link between DCM and diet especially for animals who cannot manufacture taurine. There are a couple of factors at play in this scenario. One is the use of “exotic” meats in diets with the meat sources possibly being deficient in the components that dogs need to manufacture taurine. The other factor is the substitution of protein sources in some diets with ingredients that do not provide the necessary amino acids. It is not the fact of being grain free that is the problem but the substitutions made in many diets. Home prepared meals have been implicated in diets linked to DCM as well as some commercial preparations. Foods that include peas, potatoes, lentils, and legumes as some of the first ingredients are thought to be particularly troublesome in regard to taurine deficiency whether the diet is grain free or not. There is some early research showing that diets that are high in carbohydrates may displace amino acids or may interfere with taurine absorption.

So, what do we do to protect our beloved companions? In time, research will give us better answers including dietary recommendations. In a future post, I will be writing about how to choose a good food for your dog. The good news in this situation is that DCM due solely to taurine deficiency might be reversible if caught early. There are some dogs with normal blood taurine levels, however, who still are at risk for DCM. What we know at present about golden retriever health tells us it is a good idea to do the following: If feeding a prepared food, make sure it is a high quality, balanced, AAFCO certified food from a reputable company and distributor. Read the ingredient label and make sure a quality protein is the first ingredient listed. Typically this will be some form of meat, fish, or eggs. Keep up with visits to your veterinarian, annually at minimum. As your dog ages, twice a year visits may be appropriate. Be observant for signs of activity intolerance such as your dog becoming tired more easily, a cough especially related to activity, or excess panting. Sometimes the cough will be more of a soft, throat-clearing sound than a harsh cough. These can be early signs of many conditions with heart disease being among the possibilities. See your vet as soon as you can if you notice any of these signs. During routine visits, talk with your vet and determine if any diagnostic tests are warranted for your dog related to DCM and other conditions common in golden retrievers. If your veterinarian detects a murmur or has other concerns, be open to the additional diagnostic tests that may be recommended. Since early detection is crucial, it is a good idea to have heart health, including DCM, on your “discuss with my vet” list for an upcoming visit.

www.culturecafeva.com www.culturecafeva.com 747 Scotland Street, Williamsburg, VA 23185 747 Scotland Street Williamsburg, VA 23185 757.229.8610 757.229.8610

FALL 2018

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Rainbow Bridge

ALLY To have met Ally was to have fallen in love with her. Turned over to SEVA when she was nearly 10 years old and plagued by numerous medical conditions, she quickly found her way into the hearts of Roni and John Sumner. From the time she climbed into their car when they and Roxy did the foster visit until the time she closed her eyes in final peace, Ally was in total control of every situation. Even when she could barely walk, her deep bark rang out demanding her meal to be placed in front of her in a timely fashion. Even when she could not rise to greet visitors, she thumped her tail and voiced her welcome.

Around Roni’s neck to this day is the Ally Stone, a rock she had to have surgically removed and which was made into a necklace. To have been owned by her for three years was an honor.

MAX This little guy turned into the best buddy ever! Lots of love, patience and finding the right medicines that work. We will miss you buddy!

You had a hard life just glad your last years were happy with us!

–Regina Shepler

–Roni Sumner

MARIGOLD

RUFUS We are very sad to learn that one of our forever fosters, Rufus, crossed the Rainbow Bridge yesterday. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family who loved and cared for him through multiple surgeries for his cancer and other treatments to make his life as comfortable as possible.

We take comfort in knowing he is no longer suffering in this life and is running free with friends at the Bridge.

Marigold Dyer, Unknown-2018. Marigold come to SEVA GRREAT in June 2016. She was 20 pounds underweight, nails so overgrown they were growing sideways, covered in fleas and her teeth were a mess.

She maintained her sweetness as witnessed by her transporter, Deb Van Dover, who developed a soft spot for this sweet girl. She captured the heart of her foster mom and brother Remley, her mentor. As it turned out, Marigold had cancer and kidney disease. Despite these obstacles she remained positive. Her foster mom failed at her mission and decided to adopted this sweet girl. Through visits to Colonial Williamsburg, wineries and various events she learned to trust again from her mentor brother Remley. She became the mascot for Eagles Reach Stables where she was spoiled and loved. Marigold only wanted to love and please.

She leaves to cherish her memory her mom, brother Remley, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. You captured the hearts of everyone that met you, and you will be sorely missed. There will always be a hole in our hearts. We’re lost without you.

–Judy Dyer

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

REMLEY Remley (previously known as Willie) was named after a cat my Mom and Dad had when they were first married. After I adopted Remley I discovered that he had the same birthday as my Dad! Remley was a certified therapy dog. Because of his exuberance we didn’t have the opportunity to do therapy visits. No matter how hard he tried he couldn’t contain his excitement when he saw people. He did ply his trade when he had the chance though. He loved going to Colonial Williamsburg with his sister Marigold and gal pal Keira. So many people that needed to touch him, so little time. He managed to escape one day and was found two houses up the street playing in the Koi pond. Fish need therapy too. Really buddy?

BUDDY Just writing to let you know that our sweet Buddy crossed over the Rainbow Bridge this past Sunday after a brief and hard fought battle with cancer. We adopted him from SEVAGrreat in November of 2010, and his playful, loving spirit warmed our home. He loved chasing tennis balls, bringing us shoes when he met us at the door, car rides, walks, and playing tug-of-war with his fur sister Sophie (we adopted her in from SEVAGrreat in May of 2011). We will miss him every day, but we are grateful for the years of joy we spent with him. Run free, my sweet boy.

–April McLeod Knowles

Remley wasn’t thrilled to have Marigold come to live with us but she won him over. He was a great mentor giving her strength and confidence when she sorely needed it.

Marigold went to Rainbow Bridge July 3, 2018. Apparently she missed and needed him because he joined her one month later.

Run free baby and take good care of your sister.

–Judy Dyer

WINSTON I thought you would like to know that my precious boy winston passed away last saturday. I adopted him from Caitlin Taylor, who lives in Chesapeake, who fostered him for a short time before I got to take this beautiful boy home with me.

SAM Sam went to the golden gate yesterday. He was 11 and will be missed by many.

In the very short (a year and some months) time I had him, it wasn’t hard to fall in love with him. He was the sweetest, most gentle soul who will be dearly missed. I loved him with all my heart. He was such a special boy.

–Barb Whitney

–Wanda Dean FALL 2018

21

Contributions Dorothy Winn

Cathy Rotch

Amy McNabb

David Jarman In honor and Memory of my precious goldens, Dasche and Zen

Deborah Van Dover

Dorothy Hanrahan I have fond memories of volunteering with SEVA GRREAT and meeting, fostering, and owning many of its dogs

Frederic and Constance Sieg In memory of Janis Beall Clay Beall, III In memory of Jan Tom and Bev White

Karen Amdion In honor of Walker Dog and in memory of our sweet rescue, Sierra Sunset Kidd Charles Grsham In honor of the puppies Joanna Simonsen In memory of Maggie Salls

Melissa Blane In honor of Raife with gratitude to SEVA GRREAT

Hercules and Associate LLCs

Betsy Goode In memory of Janis Beall

Susan Kenter In lmemory of my first golden, Daisy

Retirement Planning Services, Inc The Pinnacle Group In memory of Janis Beall Barry Barnes Howard Steele In memory of Janis Beall

Jacob and Jenny Kay

Patricia McLoone In memory of Max Kathy Jens In honor of Max, my handsome foster companion for four months, I miss him so!

Joe Vance

Sherry Kara In honor of CoCo

Ann and Andor Czompo

Russell Bishop

Combined Federal Campaign #003456

Sponsor-A-Dog Contributors

Vivian Webb, Cruises Inc. Elizabeth Pirtle In memory of Billy B. Pirtle Johnson, Mirmiran and Thomson, Inc, (JMT) Susan and John Collamore In support of Max’s bills Jennifer and Marc Dauzier In support of Maxwell

Domino’s Fund Carl Jackson

Michael and Lee Anne Lamkin Mary Whitney Walters Given in honor of Stone Linda Davis Courtney Lewis Tracy Minnich

CVC

Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign #3456

Do you have a SEVA GRREAT dog?

We would love to see what you are doing. Our alumni seem to be having very exciting lives.

Share your pictures, including captions, by sending them to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com.

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!

22

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

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: ________________________________________

Time to Renew Your Membership

Work Phone: ________________________________________ This is a new membership Address Change ADDITIONAL VOTING MEMBERS:

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

(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: ______________________________________________________________

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

SEVA GRREAT P.O. Box 8014 Yorktown, Va 23693

PAID

WILLIAMSBURG, VA 23185 PERMIT NO. 220

Rescue Hotline 757-827-8561 Press For 1

If you think you have found one of our Goldens based on the SEVA GRREAT tag or microchip.

2 To leave a message for the President 3 To give up a Golden Retriever

or get more info on our intake process 4

For Information on Golden Days and other events.

5

To check on the status of an adoption or foster application.

6

For all other questions.

National Dog Registry 1-800-NDR-DOGS Foster Dog Medical Care YORK VETERINARY CLINIC Yorktown – 757-898-3700 COOKE VET MEDICAL CENTER Chesapeake – 757-547-9421 QUIOCCASIN VET HOSPITAL Richmond – 804-741-3200 ACREDALE ANIMAL HOSPITAL Virginia Beach – 757-523-6100 ANDERSON’S CORNER Toano – 757-566-2224 MIDLOTHIAN ANIMAL CLINIC Midlothian – 804-794-2099

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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 Sharon Leeman Intake Coordinator Michelle Pfeiffer Foster Coordinator Debbie Morris Adoption Coordinator Sharon Leeman Membership Jacob Kay Volunteer Coordinator Sherry Kara Medical Coordinator Beth Rodgers Merchandise Jennifer Dauzier Fundraising GRREAT Times magazine

Linda Thomson Brad Miller

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