SPRING 2021
International Rescue Update
The Story of Two “Shore Girls”
When Dog Meets Skunk
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 .. Give Local 757!
SEVA GRREAT disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors.
6 .. International Rescue Update
Submitting Stories and Photos
8 .. How to Stop Dog Barking
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!
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10 .. Making Your Yard Dog Friendly 11 .. When Dog Meets Skunk 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 .. The Two “Shore Girls”
16 16 .. “Shore Girl” – Gracie
Email to: grreattimes@adoptagolden.com
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18 .. “Shore Girl” –
Poppy
20 .. Rainbow Bridge 22 .. Contributions 22 .. Membership & Volunteering
ON THE COVER: fostering@adoptagolden.com 2
That’s Myles Johnson from our 2021 Calendar saying “ It’s spring – time to get out and play.”
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
President’s Message
Tuesday, May 11, 2021
Ah, gtime n i r p S
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.
W
e turn our clocks ahead so we can have more daylight in the afternoon. Warmer weather will come our way soon. Our Goldens love any time of year, but I think spring puts an extra “bounce” in their step! More walks in the nice weather and playtime in our backyards. Perhaps a fun trip to the ocean or bay to play in the surf and sand. I’m very much looking forward to the warmer weather and time outside with our sweet Lucy. We are also looking to begin attending local outdoor events and have also opened our adoption applications. Our May membership meeting has been scheduled at Little Island Park in Sandbridge for the 22nd, provided the Governor relaxes the outside restrictions. We
hope our members bring their pups for the cookout, meeting and fun times running on the beach. Lastly, I’d like to thank our dear friends, Jay and Lisa Tucker, who own JLT Performance Inc for their very generous donation in February. Take a moment to visit their website jlttruecoldair. com and follow them on Facebook. Enjoy the warmer weather and extended sunshine. Hope to see you at the May meeting! Best,
Susan SPRING 2021
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Adoptions
Ace
Che
Dobi
Honey
Eddie
Molly
Daisy
Goldie
Sammy
Ace – Joann & Ron King
Eddie – Anita & Glen Pozin
Sammy – Peggy & Carl Allen
Che – Nancy Husson
Goldie – Janie & John Carstens
Daisy – Taylar Wagner
Honey – Jenny Jaskiewicz
Sandy – Donna Harmon & Ronald Capps
Dobi – Susan Sullivan
Molly – Marsha & Jack Reeves
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
Sophie – Kate & Bob Adamcik
The Multi-Purpose Human . . .
Sandy
Sophie © Copyright Off The Leash (Rupert Fawcett)
Save The Date TUESDAY, MAY 11, 2021 Midnight to Midnight Get ready to give! Starting at 12AM on May 11, visit www.givelocal757.org and make a donation to us, Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education and Training, Inc. All giving will end at 11:59PM on May 11, so make sure to get your gift in on time! Give Local 757 is one of our most successful fundraisers and we need your help now more than ever. This has been a most unusual year for all of us. Cash prizes will be awarded based on unique donations. A unique donation is defined as: Unique to a name, credit card and email address. The more unique donations the more cash bonus prizes we can win.
DONATE
Minimum donation is $10.00
We are very grateful for your past support and hope you will continue to help us take care of our goldens in need. Your donations help us prepare them for their forever homes. We could not do what we do without you. Please donate on Tuesday, May 11th at www.givelocal757.org
Thank you for all you do for our precious goldens. SPRING 2021
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International Rescue Update
Bondy
A
fter bringing in 40 international rescues (31 from Turkey and 9 from China) in 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic understandably brought things to a halt for most of 2020. It was a difficult time for our international rescue partners, as many dogs that were ready to come to various rescues here in the U.S. had their flights cancelled.
Toby
Yet more and more goldens were coming into their care, stretching their already thin resources. Thankfully, flights started to open again in August, and we were able to bring in 18 wonderful goldens on 5 different flights between August 18th and December 22nd. Fifteen of those goldens have been adopted and are thriving in their forever
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.
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Stony Point Stony Point Fashion Park 9200 Stony Point Pkwy Richmond, VA 23235 (804)793-8855 info@@doparkavenue.com
homes. Maxi and Dragon are doing great in their foster-to-adopt homes and will be officially adopted once medically cleared by our veterinarians. Beautiful Serbet is being observed for an episode of seizurelike activity and should be available for adoption soon. As difficult as 2020 was for everyone, we are proud of our efforts and
Diana thankful we could make such a difference in the lives of these deserving pups. 2021 is off to a brighter start, and on February 7th we welcomed “Turkey Dogs” Bondy, Toby, Diana (aka Journey), and Mindy. They are all settling in with their foster homes and we hope they will be ready for adoption soon.
Mindy We also have dogs scheduled to arrive at the end of March, and more in either April or May. Thanks to the support of our board members, volunteers, and generous donors, we will be ready and waiting eagerly for more new arrivals. As you can well imagine, it is quite expensive to provide the veterinary care and flight costs to get these dogs safely to the U.S.
Donations to support our international efforts are greatly appreciated, and can be made using the donate tab on our website at www. adoptagolden.com or by mailing a check to SEVA GRREAT at P.O. Box 8014, Yorktown, VA 23693. Be sure to follow our website and Facebook page for updates on all our rescue efforts.
SPRING 2021
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How to Stop Dog Barking with Training Methods A
ny behavioral treatment program to help stop dog barking must be based on the type of problem, your household’s needs and schedules, the immediacy of the situation, and the type and level of control that you require. A good behavioral history is important for determining the cause of the problem behavior, the motivation, and the cause for the barking. Ensure that your dog is not being rewarded inadvertently. Some owners, in an attempt to calm their dogs, will actually encourage the barking by giving attention, play, food, or affection while the dog is barking. Ensure that your response is not aggravating
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the problem. For example, yelling at a dog that is barking because of anxiety or because it is protecting its territory (home and grounds) is only likely to increase the dog’s anxiety. Limit Motivation for Dog Barking Sometimes the home can be modified so that the dog is sheltered from the sounds and sights that cause barking. Exposure might be minimized by confining the dog to a crate (if the dog has been crate trained this will be easier to implement), or confined to a room away from highly trafficked areas like doors and windows. Windows might be covered so that the dog cannot see outside, and privacy fencing may be an option for dogs that are allowed time outdoors (such as in a yard).
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
To stop dog barking on a dog that spends time outside, the dog may need to be kept indoors except when the owner is able to supervise. Trigger sounds, such as doorbells or telephones, that have become a part of the dog’s ingrained reaction should be changed so that they are not provoking a response.
Using Rewards for Dog Training Until an effective reward based training program has begun, it is very unlikely that the dog will learn to stop barking on command. Begin by increasing exercise and play, along with crate training. Halter training and obedience classes may also need to be
implemented before you can stop dog barking, particularly if your dog is well past puppy age and has become a habitual barker.
quiet command, the next step is to begin a re-training program by placing the dog in the presence of the motivating factors (people, other dogs, sounds) that lead to barking.
Once you have sufficient control and the dog responds to obedience commands and handling, it should be relatively simple to train your dog to stop barking on command. Treatment plans include rewards and praise, distraction, halter and leash training, and in some cases, prescription drug treatment.
These encounters should be controlled by you. Ask a friend to stand in for people, a friend with a dog to stand in for dogs (close to the property, outside a window, etc.), or get a family member or friend to ring the doorbell/ knock on the door.
Regardless of the plan, rewards, usually in the form of a treat, should be given immediately after the barking stops, so that the dog begins to associate quiet behavior with rewards and praise. As the treat is being given, use the command word you have chosen for “quiet.” The command word may even be “quiet,” but mainly, keep the word simple and use it consistently. It is important for the dog to associate SILENCE with the command being used.
Training with a head halter and leash can be effective for implementing this plan safely. The stimulus should first be presented to the dog from a distance (e.g., children riding bicycles on the street while the dog is kept on the porch), while the dog is being given a quiet or sit-stay command by you. Although the halter and leash is generally all that is required to control the dog and achieve the appropriate response, you can also use it in tandem with a distraction.
Over time, the plan should be shaped so that the dog is required to stay quiet for progressively longer times before the reward and praise are given. Your final goal is to train your dog to quiet down without receiving a treat, though you will always give praise. Getting to that point may take some time.
This plan uses a device such as an ultrasonic trainer or shake can (a can filled with coins or other noise making objects) to distract the dog, to grab their attention, breaking the habitual response. Do this every time the dog barks when you don’t want. As the dog responds less frequently to outside factors, continue to repeat the sessions, with progressively more intense stimuli (e.g., bringing the factors closer to home). This type of training is effective, but progress can be slow and time consuming. Much
Stopping the Dog’s Motivation to Bark Once the dog is consistently obeying the
patience and persistence must be given to this project.
Medical Treatment for Dog Barking Dogs that are barking for other reasons, such as from fear, separation anxiety, or in association with compulsive disorders, will require medical treatment for the underlying problem. You will need to see a veterinarian, who may prescribe a dog safe anti-anxiety drug. A veterinarian who specializes in behavioral issues can help stop dog barking and help you to develop a behavior modification plan that will at least mitigate the problem, if not resolve it. Some people have used surgery to resolve their dogs’ barking. Surgical debarking is a drastic and often permanent method for eliminating barking. Varying degrees of vocalization may return as the surgical site heals and scars, however, devocalization does not address the underlying motivation for the barking and is unlikely to reduce the intensity or frequency of the barking itself. Devocalization is therefore not recommended to stop dog barking, except in cases where the owners are confronted with the need to relinquish their dog if vocalization cannot be resolved. In these cases the risks and humane issues will need to be weighed against all other possible options.
SPRING 2021
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FROM PEDIGREE
Making Your Yard Dog Friendly
T
he fair weather of spring calls canines outdoors for fun and frolicking. But, before you open the door to the yard, make sure it’s a safe haven for your running, jumping, digging, and curious dog. This safepooch checklist can help you get your yard ready for romping. Check fences, gates, walls, and other boundary structures to make sure your dog can’t escape from gaps that may have opened up during the winter. Make any necessary repairs before your dog discovers them. Then, during the coming “outdoor” months, make frequent inspections. If you have an Invisible Fence, or similar electronic containment system, make sure every component—from the transmitter to the collar—is working correctly. If you have any
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doubts, call your installer for a professional system inspection. Avoid using insecticides and fertilizers in areas where your dog will be playing, digging, and lounging. And if you have these chemicals—and others—around, be sure to store them in a locked area, like a shed, that your dog can’t raid. Watch what you—or your gardener— plants in the yard. Some plants are toxic to dogs, so ask your nursery to recommend only plants that are dog safe. Make sure your dog has a shady spot where he can lounge. This could be a cool area under some trees or under a deck or porch. Consider using a doggie door so your pooch can stroll back into the house when the sun gets too strong.
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
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If your yard doesn’t have sufficient shade, schedule your dog’s “outdoor time” for the cooler early morning and the evening hours. Provide plenty of fresh, cool water. You’re not the only one who enjoys a refreshing drink of water on a hot summer day. Don’t leave your dog alone in the yard if you have to leave the house. Bring him into the house before you go, or take him with you. And never leave him in the car alone on a hot day, even with the windows open. Out of sight should never mean out of mind, so check on your dog regularly when he’s out in the yard and you’re in the house. Don’t assume he’s safe and happy just because you don’t hear him barking.
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When Dog Meets Skunk W
hen dog meets skunk, there's nothing subtle about the encounter. Even before your pooch pops his head through the doggie door, your nose starts sending signals to your brain: "Oh, no!" your brain says. And then the questions begin: "How do I get the stink out of my dog? How do I get the smell out of my house? How long will the odor linger in the yard” etc.
Fun Fact
Skumks can spray up to 10 feet and can spray as many as 6 times in a row.
To help answer your brain's first question and to help put your olfactory sense at ease, we think you'll find this information useful
Getting rid of the PU: Do not get your dog wet. Water seals the skunk oil secretion into the hair follicle and your pet will smell for weeks or even months. Your local pet specialty store should have commercial remedies that will help to substantially decrease the skunk odor. However, if you're unable to get the to store right away, try this homemade recipe:
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Mix together 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 teaspoon of dish-washing detergent.
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Wash the areas that have been sprayed with the mixture, making sure you avoid your dog's eyes, ears, and mouth.
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Rinse your dog thoroughly with water afterwards.
A few things to remember: If you use this formula on your dog outside, it may kill some grass that gets wet. If your dog gets wet, the skunk smell may come back – though to a lesser degree. This formula does not store well, so you'll need to make it "fresh" when your dog gets skunked. If you live in a "high skunk incidence area," keep the ingredients handy. To remove smells inside your house, try boiling some white vinegar.
SPRING 2021
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Hello2020 was a challenging year in so many ways but it brought us our wonderful Bella. She is a Turkey rescue dog that we adopted in October. She has quickly wrapped us around her paw and filled an empty place in our hearts. She loves playing with her toys, going on long walks and being petted. As you can tell by her Christmas morning picture, she’s not the least bit spoiled! Thanks for all you do to bring wonderful dogs to loving homes! Happy Holidays!
–Dale and Julie Farino
This is a rare (and brief) moment with Bennie, our mixed Golden from Franklin.
–Sue Burton
Homec
Share your pictures and stories by sending th They will be featured in coming newslet
I fostered this handsome boy in late summer 2020. He was adopted in October 2020 THE DOGS OF 2020! You’ve seen this handsome fella before. This is Jim (formerly Cem). Here’s an update on his life from his mom: “We adopted Cem (Turkey dog) in October and we Americanized his name to Jim. Jim has acclimated very well. He enjoys playing outside, going for long walks and car rides. He loves to be in the kitchen when we are preparing meals. He has been going to Dogtopia several times a week and has several doggie BFFs to play with.” –Quan Li
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
coming
hem to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com. tters, right here under Homecoming.
Honey is a turkey dog who landed right before thanksgiving 2020. So, she got to taste turkey and ham during the holidays with us. In this photo, she is celebrating her 3rd birthday, hoping to find her forever loving home in the new year!
–Quan Li
Honeybee (formerly turkey dog Honey) found her forever home. She loves long walks on the beach, and has a blast dressing up at daycare when I have to go to work!
–Jenny Jaskiewicz
Rush in the backyard.
–Sue Burton
SPRING 2021
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What The “Shore Girls” Teach Us About Dogs
by Beth Rodgers
T
he story of these two “Shore Girls” is sure to melt some hearts. The love and commitment of their foster families is an immeasurable part of their experiences and gives us hope that both will become happy and fulfilled dogs. Neither dog is the typical golden retriever in many ways, but we can learn a lot from their experiences that helps us have a better understanding and relationship with our own dogs. Fear is a necessary emotion; it steers dogs, just like it steers us, toward conditions essential for survival. It is present in all beings at different times and in different degrees. We see it predictably in dogs who come into shelter or rescue situations whose lives have been turned upside down. Even those who come from ideal circumstances and go into loving homes have no way of understanding what is going on or what will happen next. Consider that many dogs in rescue did not come from ideal circumstances so the potential for fear and associated reactions is even greater. Even our fluffball goldens can have significant fears simply being moved into an unfamiliar environment. Because these “Shore Girls” were so profoundly fearful, we engaged two wellknown, board certified animal behaviorists who typically work with shelters or with other professionals, but who were willing to help us with Gracie and Poppy. The specialized knowledge of certified behaviorists was essential in these cases because of the severity of the fear, beyond the need for “training.” Both behaviorists had very similar approaches reflecting the latest science about canine cognition. Before sharing that information, however, we need to recognize how much advancement there has been in our understanding of canine 14
behavior. In the United States, researchers at Yale and Duke Universities particularly are revolutionizing our perspective on how our dogs interpret their worlds (how they think, actually). The ideas many people have held for years about pack behavior and dominance have not been upheld by research. Once we dispense with those old ideas, there are two points that stand out from current research: Dogs are far more complex than many people realize, and they are a lot like us in many ways. What does this mean for working with our own dogs? Both behaviorists used a classical conditioning and desensitization approach that relied on very slow and careful exposure to things that were perceived as scary; critical evaluation of the dog’s response so that the dog did not exceed “threshold”; properly timed rewards so the desired response was reinforced; a slow, steady and very patient process; and reinforcement of things in the dog’s life that were pleasurable for the general welfare of the dog and also for relationship building with the foster families. Let’s look more closely at some of the key principles in this approach, especially as they can be of benefit to us in sharing our lives with dogs. •• Each dog is an individual. There is no one size fits all in terms of how they interpret their worlds, what they find troublesome, or what they need to work on to be happy and fulfilled dogs. One dog excitedly rushes to greet every stranger, another hides behind the handler, while a third growls at some and wags happily at others. Each dog is unique and has to be handled as such. •• Do not make assumptions about any dog. Golden retrievers are known for friendly, outgoing personalities, dogs who love everyone and want nothing more than to be glued to you constantly (unless they see a
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
squirrel or a tennis ball). Such stereotypes can be harmful as they set the dog up for exposure to things for which they are not ready or to be disappointments to their families who thought they were adopting the perfect furry best friend. The new dog may not be ready to meet everyone in the neighborhood! We recommend that such experiences do not happen within the first few days of the dog entering your home, and even later for some. Every dog needs a chance for its own personality, its likes and dislikes, its tolerances and its limits to shine through and it needs things to move slowly enough in its new surroundings for those characteristics to emerge. When dogs come through rescue, they are not being their typical dog-selves. Nothing about their worlds is typical. Some adjust quickly, others need more time, and we must give them that time to adjust and learn their new environments at their pace. They also need to know that they can trust their human companion not to put them in scary or uncomfortable situations. •• Dogs need to be able to make choices. This is a major change from the old thinking based on ideas of dominance and alpha behavior that led to a “they’ll get over it” kind of thinking. Decades of research is very clear in showing that the dog world does not work based on hierarchical dominant social structures. This is crucial to helping any dog learn and gain confidence in new situations. When encountering new experiences, the dog should not feel trapped or be forced to confront its fear or endure a constant flood of the scary thing. Instead, when possible, the dog should be allowed to determine whether and how to approach something that is scary. The dog can be rewarded for approaching, then allowed to leave when it has had enough. Obviously this does not apply to important activities such as a vet visit, but we can let the dog approach on its terms and reward it
GRACIE
POPPY
Follow my story on page 16
Follow my story on page 18
for doing what we want so it has a positive experience and learns what is the desired behavior. •• Dogs communicate extremely well, but the cues may be very subtle and also fleeting. We need to learn to speak dog, reading and understanding their reactions and messages to us. This can be especially challenging when working with canine fear. Dogs may show distress and fear with obvious responses such as trying to get away or hide. The cues often are much more subtle, however, such as yawning, lip licking, nose licking, panting, a low ear set (ears pulled back and low on the head), slight movement of the head away from the stimulus, in addition to more obvious signs. A slightly averted glance called “whale eye” is a common reaction to a scary situation. With this reaction, some of the white of the eye is showing as the dog attempts to look away from the frightening stimulus but still wants to see what is going on and monitoring whatever seems threatening. Reading the dog’s communication is crucial to evaluating its response so that we can recognize when it is having trouble with a situation. It also is important to ensure the dog does not exceed “threshold,” the point at which the dog is too stimulated to think about what is happening and can only react.
•• Timing of reinforcement is critical for the dog’s learning. Rewards must be provided in a way that clearly marks the desired response. If we are slow, we may be providing a reward at a time that the dog associates it with a less desirable behavior. •• While not a solo treatment, medication can be a very important part of a behavioral program. A frightened or extremely anxious dog cannot learn. Medication can take the edge off the fear and anxiety enough to enable learning to occur. •• There is no timeline and the process cannot be rushed. Progress can come in very small steps and be accompanied by forward and backward movement. All of these principles are an essential part of the work with both dogs. Both dogs still have a long way to go, but they have made tremendous progress thanks to the love and dedication of the foster families and a sound behavioral program based on current science. As an example of how slow and stepwise this process can be, an early intervention for Gracie was for the foster mom to read aloud while sitting on the floor adjacent to but outside of Gracie’s safe space under the table. Gracie needed help to learn to tolerate
even the presence of humans close to her, and this activity provided some exposure but in a nonthreatening way. Treats were included, but at times the fear was so great that she would not risk taking a treat from foster mom’s hand. She has progressed to allowing brief touch during those reading sessions. Starting at such a basic level in the desensitization process takes tremendous patience and love, and both dogs have been fortunate to be in the care of such dedicated foster families. As mentioned earlier, research has led to substantial changes in understanding how dogs think and feel, and thus how to help them learn and develop in a healthy way. Links to two noteworthy centers for such research are provided below. Perhaps reading the stories from Gracie and Poppy will stimulate more awareness of how we communicate with our own dog and how they see the world. They are always watching and learning from us, and as these two Shore Girls show, we also can learn a lot from them. – Yale University Canine Cognition Center: https://doglab.yale.edu/ (Dr. Laurie Santos, Director) – Duke Canine Cognition Center: https:// evolutionaryanthropology.duke.edu/research/ dogs (Dr. Brian Hare, Director) SPRING 2021
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My Life as a Fearful Dog M
y name is Gracie and I’m one of the Eastern Shore girls. Not much is known about my early life on the Eastern Shore. What I remember is that I was surrounded by a lot of other dogs, including my friends Chloe and Poppy. Some of us were chained up, some were tied to trees, and some of us could run free. I think maybe I was one of those that ran free because my friends at SEVA GRREAT were told that it took Animal Control around six months to be able to catch us. I am really good at running and hiding. I never had any interaction with people so they are very scary to me.
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by Gracie
Once they finally caught me, I was put in a kennel at Animal Control and I was very frightened. These people from SEVA GRREAT came and picked me up and though they seemed nice, it didn’t make me feel any better. My new foster mom came to pick me up and I kept trying to hide behind bushes, under the stairs and anywhere else I thought was a good hiding spot. I got to my new house and I just didn’t know what to do. For a couple of weeks, I was so frantic and lonely that I howled all night, just wanting to be back where I was familiar with my surroundings. I ran around the house
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
at night, trying to find a way out. I jumped up on all the windows trying to escape. I even jumped up on chairs and tried to climb the walls. It was terrifying. My foster mom started to give me some kind of little pill in some cheese (I really LOVE cheese!). I started to calm down just a little bit but I still wouldn’t let anyone touch me. And, I certainly wasn’t going to allow that leash or harness to be put on me. My foster parents gave me toys! I never had toys before and they were cool, especially the ones that are soft and
GRACIE Photo: Kim Maxey
squeak. I carried them with me everywhere. At nighttime, they put them in a crate and I would go right in there to sleep with my treasures. Every morning, I would run outside to do my business. Then, I would take my toys, one-byone, and carry them to the dining room to hide out under the table all day. Mom let that room be all mine and I even have my own bed in there that was so soft and comfy. I never want to leave that room. I was in my new home for about a week when I figured out that I got treats if I did my business outside. It seemed to make Mom so happy that I just kept doing that. I suppose that made it worth it to go outside. I found I could just peek into the family room where my people were, and they would open the back door for me. But, if I saw anyone else outside, I just wasn’t going to go out there. I didn’t know them, and they were just too scary. But I got snacks even for just facing that scary thing outside. There are two other dogs in this family, and they are ok. The big one, Jordy, seems to be mostly interested in any breakfast or dinner that I don’t finish. I don’t mind because I’m
not always that interested in my food. Now when he goes after my toys, that’s when I have a problem. Mom tells him to “Drop it!” and he usually listens. Then, there is Vinny who is more my size. We have made a pact. He will leave my toys alone and will also teach me when to bark at the Amazon or FedEx truck. I didn’t know how to bark until about a month ago. One of those trucks brings a box that I think we’re supposed to be excited about, according to Jordy and Vinny. It says Chewy on the box and has treats or toys inside. I’m mostly interested in the new toys. They just make me feel much better when I surround myself with them. I’ve been at my new house for about eight months now. I’m used to these people but I still don’t want to be touched. Mom started to do this cool thing where she’ll sit on the floor with me with her laptop and this lady on that screen watched me. She’s an animal behaviorist. I have no idea what that is but it’s ok. Mom tells me we are on Zoom call. I thought that was what I did when I ran around the yard like a crazy dog…..or maybe that’s Zoomies. Anyway, that lady on the screen was watching me and telling Mom how to get me
more comfortable. Mom will sit on the floor with me, almost under the table, and will read to me. I have no idea what she is saying, but I like the sound of her voice and I can relax. She will put a treat in her hand and let me take it from her. Sometimes, she will hide it in her hand, and I have to nuzzle down into her hand to get it. She makes it hard sometimes. While I’m trying to get it, she sometimes touches under my chin. It’s all very strange to me and I don’t really like that part. If I let her touch under my chin, sometimes she’ll try to touch down the side of my neck, down to my shoulder. I haven’t gotten used to that part yet. At least if I pull back, she will stop and not make me do it. That lady on the screen said that I can control how much I get touched. They say belly rubs feel nice but I’m not ready for that yet. Hopefully someday. One day, my old friend Chloe came to visit me. Her mom was there and that frightened me. I shook all over because it was someone new in the house. Chloe wasn’t happy either because she had never been in this house. She was trying to find a place to hide, like I did when I first got here. So, we didn’t feel like playing, but maybe another time we will. I’ve learned so much over the last few months. At night when it’s dark and no one notices me, I can sneak into Mom and Dad’s room to get more toys. I can also frolic and play, and no one sees me because they are asleep. I have started getting a little bit excited when Mom and Dad come home, or when they take Jordy and Vinny for a walk. I think I might want to go on a walk too, but not enough for that leash or harness to be put on me. I know they won’t hurt me, but I still prefer to be by myself. I know that they are there for me and won’t ever give up on me. With their help and the help of SEVA GRREAT, I will learn to be more trusting and behave like a normal dog.
SPRING 2021
17
Night and Day O
n a warm July afternoon, a very small and scared pup came to stay with us. When we greeted her at the car, she cowered in the crate. The smell of feces, urine and dirt emanating from the car was quite strong and we were not sure how Jane drove to our house. Once we moved the crate into the back yard, we opened the door. That scared pup ran from place to place looking for a place to hide. We sat awhile and then carried her from the bushes, and she sat by her new foster dad, Scott. She allowed Scott to pet her, and we thought “well this is going to be easy.” We will
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rehabilitate her for a couple of weeks, have her spayed and adopt her to a wonderful family. Boy, were we wrong. That day started our seven-month journey with Poppy. As foster parents for over 10 years, we have seen a lot. From a tripod pup in diapers, to a pup with severe seizures, to a Turkey Dog, who had no social skills and a broken pelvis, we thought we had seen it all. Poppy was completely different. She was absolutely terrified of human contact, and trembled when someone would get close.
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
One of the benefits of the COVID Pandemic, if there are any, is that we have been working remotely for a year. When SEVA approached us about fostering a pup, it was an easy yes. We would be home to take care of this girl and quickly transition her to a new home. We made sure Poppy had a safe space and we welcomed her to our home. Poppy has the run of the house along with her foster sister, Allie. When Poppy first got here, she moved from two spots in our house. Her favorite spot is her pink house. It is big
POPPY
enough to hold a pup bed, but small enough to dissuade humans from entering. Or at least that is what Poppy thought. We climb in there and try to snuggle with her. Poppy used to be extremely uncomfortable while we were in there and was very happy to see us move along. Her other favorite spot is sitting on the white couch in the fancy living room. No one sits in there which makes Poppy happy, and she has a great vantage point to see if any pesky humans are trying to approach her. Once there is a human sighting, Poppy makes a beeline for the pink house for safety. Poppy loves her foster sister, Allie. Although Allie is a bit standoffish with Poppy, Poppy takes every opportunity to try and play. She will sniff Allie and prance and jump around
Allie to entice her to play. Occasionally, Allie will indulge Poppy. We are hoping for more of that in the future. Poppy has the love and support of not only her foster family, but also friends and neighbors. Madeline and Natalie enjoy coming to our house to read and play with Poppy. They are so hopeful Poppy will come out of her shell. They say prayers every night about Poppy. Poppy also had a virtual session with an animal behaviorist. She helped us with cues when Poppy was extremely uncomfortable and how to diffuse the situation. With new medicine, we have noticed that Poppy is becoming more approachable. She appears to be more comfortable, and the
sHibley enTerprises, inc. elecTrical serVices
7002 Horsepen road, ricHmond, Virginia 23226 TelepHone (804) 288-3071 • Fax (804) 282-3061 dtshibley@comcast.net
JosepH a. sHibley
(804) 641-3678
scared shaking is less and less. We are not sure if the skittishness is a permanent thing, but we will continue to give her the best care and remain prayful. She really is a sweet girl. Poppy’s biggest quirk is her behavior change from day to night. All the movement and activity during the day is overwhelming for Poppy. At night, once everyone settles down Poppy enjoys playing with toys. We have found continued on next page many toys ripped apart and stuffing strewn about our house. It is super cute to hear her squeaking her toys while we are trying to sleep. As our journey with Poppy continues, we will assess her progress and provide updates. Poppy still needs to be spayed and once she is more comfortable with human contact and possibly wearing a cone, we will do that. We will continue to shower her with love and positive human contact in hopes of breaking this beautiful girl out of her shell.
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.
SPRING 2021
19
Rainbow Bridge
COPPER Written by Copper’s dad Goodbye Sweet Copper Boy. . . . SEVA GRREAT rescued “Lenny” from Animal Control near Richmond in November of 2012. They listed him as 10 years old. His foster named him “Chipper”. Unfortunately, “Chipper” developed a reputation for escaping. He would open his gate by lifting the latch. But he didn’t stop there! He would then go around and open the gates of all of his friends in the neighborhood. (No one left behind!) After doing this several times, SEVA decided it was time to move him to a more secure location – from minimum security to maximum security – so to speak. Debbie was to be a part of the team to transport him from Richmond to Chesapeake. She met up with “Chipper” in Williamsburg and was to take him to Chesapeake. It tore her heart out when she saw how defeated he seemed. She tried to comfort him and ended up falling in love with him. Me? Not so much. Nothing personal,
I never met the guy. But we had 3 large dogs already and my brother was temporarily staying at our home with his 2 labs, Casey and Chloe. Long story short, we adopted him. Lenny/Chipper became Copperfield – Copper for short - named after the great escape artist David Copperfield. Once here, Copper never tried to escape, even when he was off leash outside the gate. Interesting story – my brother took his dogs to the pet psychic. Chloe (who is quite the gossip) told the psychic that she really likes the new one. She said “he barks a lot but he doesn’t really mean anything by it – he is just so happy to have friends”.
merrier! I think of him chasing that ball and have come to realize it wasn’t the ball that made him so happy - it was all the friends he had to play ball with. We were so fortunate that Debbie transported him that day. He has added so much joy and love to our lives. Today, we had to say goodbye to Copper. It was time for his gate to be opened. Now go and run and play! Get that ball Copper Boy! Friends are waiting for you to come and play. Until we meet again. We love you so much!! Mom and Dad –Debbie & Joe Morris
Copper was one happy guy. He was a senior rescue that became a puppy again. He was given a second chance at life – thanks to SEVA GRREAT. He went from being defeated, to living the life he always wanted. He was full of life and love and he lived each day to the fullest. He loved his sisters, cousins, and anybody who came to visit. The more the
804-744-4733 itsallaboutgreen@yardmasters.org
(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 I t ’ s
a l l
a b o u t
g r e e n
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs - 8:30am-7:30pm Fri - 8:30am-5:30pm Sat - 8:30am-12:00pm
www.macvetva.com
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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
info@macvetva.com
HONEY
LILY
BRANDY
She bounded into my life at the age of 12; this beautiful red was to be my foster, and my mission was to nurse her back to health. Weighing only 38 pounds, Honey was still a ball of fire. After her vet exam, she journeyed home and literally took over everything so excited was she to have toys and a person with her at all times. She flourished over the next two years slowly gaining to 64 pounds with a luxurious coat of flaming red fur.
We are sad to say that our beloved Lily Girl passed away today. She was 13 years old when we were fortunate to become her “Forever Foster” home. Lily’s owner had died and her family did not want her, so they called animal control. Animal control reached out to SEVA GRREAT because Lily was in bad shape both medically and emotionally. They did not think she would make it through the night. That was 2 1/2 years ago.
Brandy taught us more about being human than 67/69 years had ever taught us. She is my hero.
For two years this energetic senior, fondly known as The Boss, showed how wonderful geriatric dogs can be as well as proving that you really can teach an old dog new tricks. I adopted her, and with her outgoing personality decided that she would make a wonderful therapy dog. She passed her test with flying colors and bestowed love in a senior setting. Everyone loved her.
Since day one, Lily became a wonderful addition to our family. She loved her life here with us and she loved her 5 siblings very much. She especially loved her morning walks - the more to bark at, the better the walk. Our neighbors called it “the bark and walk”. People would hear her coming and open up their doors to say hello to her.
With age comes pain that eventually becomes unmanageable; Honey’s spine was fused and the arthritis severe. Medication and cold laser treatments eased the suffering for a long time, but at the age of 14, the discomfort had become unmanageable, she could barely move, and the gift of peace had to be presented. Honey gained her wings on February 25, 2021; she finally is pain free and I am sure by now has claimed for herself a Cheetos tree as she makes certain all is exactly as she expects it. She certainly shaped our family, and we miss her each and every day.
–Charlie & Linda Mattax
It is difficult to accept that end of life is a part of life. It always hits you hard. Today isn’t about what we lost but a celebration of what we gained in the 2+ years that we had Lily. Lily Girl, you were so unique, a joy and a blessing. We love you very much and we thank you for the love and happiness you gave to our daily lives. Now, go and run and play! Barking all the way!!
–Debbie & Joe Morris
–Roni Sumner
SPRING 2021
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Contributions Elizabeth Donoghue Debbie Berthold Given in memory of Myrna Delonga Ann Czompo Elizabeth Homa In memory of Bentley (Donaldson) Julie Mercer In memory of Honey Jan Montgomery John and Cheryl Lynch For Ms. Ella Bullock, who loves our Goldens
Dominion Energy Sherry and Bill Peterson In memory of Leader and Teddy Verizon Foundation Nancy Tamse In honor of Finn, Donna Roggmann’s dog
Regina Shepler Connie Brewer Kimberly Beland Wanda Romm Elissa Lewis
Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign #3456
Lolita Minder In memory of Jasmine, Hunter and Crystal Cindy Beacham Diane Abdelnour Dorothy and John Oberlander In memory of our 2 Goldens, Duke and Bear, and our cat KP
Kimberly Christner
Tyler Retel
Peggy and Carl Allen This donation is to cover medical bills for Sammy and other rescued Goldens
Barbara Raliski
Lisa Brown In memory of Ellie and Abby
Charla Smith-Worle In memory of Bud who brought me Gus and Charlie
Donna and Jack Roggmann In honor of Finnegan George (Finn)
Susie and John Collamore In honor of Chloe Collamore Luke Somerville
Sandra Pitini
James Knight In honor of Molly (Missy)
Jacob and Jenny Kay
Stephanie Minbiole-Snider
Seth Williams In memory of Katie Kara
Eileen Walker In memory of my 3 beloved Goldens
Steven Rowe In honor of our wonderful Wyatt
Dr. Kristin Gingrich For Laila and Bella
Christina Lahl In memory of Andrew Paterson
Tammi Amick In honor of Gabi, a former Turkey dog
Skip and Terry Cole In memory of our beloved Goldens, Samantha and Casey
Dottie Cleal In memory of Franklin
Lindsay Krodel In Memory of Griffin
Robert and Carol Reed In memory of Sophie
Maryanne Lambert
Linda Peters
Bob and Peg Graham
Joanne Even In memory of Blaze Even
Rebecca Thomas
Mary Connell In memory of Bailey and Fergie
Mike and Patti Johnston James Wilson Brad Miller In memory of Bobby and Zach Jo Vance Baron Miller Peggy Allen In memory of Chance Rajendra Patel In honor of Simba Jim and Pauline O’Connell In honor of PJ and In memory of Jesse Maryanne Lambert Carl Jackson Deborah Jordan
Tanya McKeithen In memory of Honey and Sam McKeithen, Blaze & Ginger Even and Ginger Li John Marsh
Jacqueline Durkin In memory of Dani
Walter Warren
Susan O’Donnell
Emily Schultz In memory of Honey Sumner a precious girl given a second chance at a wonderful life with Roni Sumner
Tom and Bev White Clay Beall
Amy Carney
Charles and Kelley Gresham In support of Stella and Moose’s vet bills
Lisa Tucker
Jennifer and Marc Dauzier
Lisa Masternak
Elizabeth, Joe and Bob Downes In memory of Dreama Noles and to honor her loving and devoted family: Johnnie and Helen Noles & furry brothers Mac and Jaimie
Ruth Lucado
William Buklad
bluewhaleoceana
Keith Sewell
Terri Hewitt
Patrick Ritchie
Michael Brooks
Joseph Jones
Rebecca Knight
William Young
Aruna Kale
Marilynn Zauner
Connie Brewer
Charlie Vinson
Deborah Lupp In memory of Blaze Even, Joanne Even’s beloved dog
Craig Chwojdak
Ellen Jones
Marcia Penny
Sharon Leeman In memory of Blaze Even
Courtney Lewis
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Noah Mercer
Greer Stene
Stephanie Dobson
Barry Barnes
Terry Sherman In memory of Riley Girl
Stacey and John Klemenc In honor of Link and Zelda
Mary Garrett
Jane Krom In support of the international dogs
PayPal Giving Fund
Malia Meng
Sue Patrice Yee
Kevin Duke In memory of Rocky Duke
Joanne Teasdale
Forever Foster
The
GOLD e
th
John and Pat Donaldson In memory of Bentley
Dorothy Winn
GO
Fund
LD
EN O DO L DIE L OVE
G
Fu
Golden Oldie Love Dog Fund (GOLD Fund) is used for medical expenses, food, equipment, or adoption costs of rescued Golden Retrievers estimated to be ten years or older.
Deanna Melroy
Deborah Vallez Jessica Campilango William Spruill Amanda Dykes James Giesen
SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.
Dot O’Donnell In memory of Kathleen O’Donnell
Maxwell Strong Richard Burton
n
d
Sherry and Bill Peterson In memory of Leader and Tedd
CVC
Combined Federal Campaign #003456
Sharon O’Donnell In memory of Kathleen O’Donnell
MEMBERSHIP, DONATION & VOLUNTEER FORM Note: Membership is open to all persons 18 years or older.
SEVA GRREAT is a 501 (C)(3) organization • ALL DONATIONS & DUES ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE IN THE YEAR PAID
To Volunteer:
Please have the Coordinator in the following area/areas contact me:
Name: _____________________________________________
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
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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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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.
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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 GODSPEED ANIMAL CARTE Williamsburg – 757-253-8199
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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: Michelle Smith Richmond: Jennifer Dauzier Microchip Coordinator Sharon Leeman Intake Coordinator Michelle Pfeiffer Foster Coordinator Jane Krom Adoption Coordinator Chris Walker Membership Jacob Kay Volunteer Coordinator Mimi Wormeley 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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