Summer 2013
Hearts United for Animals is a national no-kill shelter, sanctuary and animal welfare organization dedicated to the relief of suffering. Our major areas of effort are to end overpopulation of domestic animals and the suffering of dogs in large breeding establishments. We specialize in long distance adoptions and special needs rescue across the nation. Tia’s Place is our refuge for pets of families fleeing homes of domestic violence. HUA is a 501(c)(3) organization that exists solely on your donations. We receive no governmental funding. The administrative staff is all-volunteer. Our gratitude to the thousands and thousands of people across the continent and around the globe who support our efforts and goals is heartfelt. Together we are a powerful symbol of kindness, love and mercy.
P.O. Box 286 • Auburn, NE 68305 www.hua.org • hua@hua.org Cover photo ©2013 David C. Rathbun • www.imsomaha.com
Noah On the night of December 20th, a gift was delivered to the HUA shelter. The gift was a starved white Boxer. We named the Boxer Noah, which means peace. What happened to Noah in his earlier life is not entirely known. He was being held in a small city pound awaiting a court case after having been confiscated from an abusive home. Some kind people were watching Noah in the pound. They saw him day after day lying out in the cold, his body no more than bones. The minute he could be released, they were there for him and drove him to the HUA shelter. No one would have thought Noah was a gift when he arrived. His appearance was shocking and struck us dumb with pity and worry about what we could do to help him. He looked like a wretchedly ill dog, and we feared that he might have a serious disease. His body was covered with scars, missing patches of hair, and partly healed abrasions looking as though he had been used in dog fighting. We gently lifted him and carried him to a warm soft bed promising him he would never be cold or hungry again. After a month of care and huge daily meals, Noah was a new man. He moved from his special needs room to the lobby of the main building where he became the official greeter. Noah is a big bundle of love. He loved everyone—all his caregivers, all volunteers and guests, even deliverymen. He was so handsome and sturdy after a weight gain of twenty pounds. Many people could not resist the urge to hug Noah. Every morning we were greeted with Noah’s happy dance, which is an awkward flying of legs, truly a comedy act. We had to stop anything we were doing to assure him that we were very happy to see him again, too. Noah often went to the sunroom where many small dogs have daily playtime. When some of them voiced their opinions about letting in something of his size, Noah only looked surprised that they did not like him. He stepped carefully around them, and soon they accepted him as one of the crowd. Noah was always in the sunroom at lunch break. He would rest his chin on the table inches away from someone’s plate, way too polite to ask for anything. But the look in those eyes was too much to resist. No one could disappoint Noah. On March 29th Noah was adopted and went to a home that has everything a dog could wish for. He has two sister dogs—Snow and Squeak, both HUA alums. They are teaching him the finer points of being spoiled. He has a special bond with his dad and a charming love story with his mom who originally intended to adopt a tiny lap dog. Noah does his happy dance very frequently now. No one can remember Noah without smiling. He turned all the sadness people felt for him into happiness. He is a gift to the human spirit.
The Lancaster County Rock Stars When HUA arrived at a Lancaster County, Nebraska, puppy mill in mid-April, rescuers found 19 dogs outside in a small pen, huddled together for warmth on a very cold and windy 35-degree morning. They were as far as possible from their living quarters. The barely visible ramshackle little shanty was covered in tarps. It was quite obvious that the puppy miller did not want the HUA representatives to see the filthy conditions in which they had been living. Everyone knew that the 19 represented only half of the dogs, but the others were nowhere in sight. The puppy miller had agreed to surrender half of the dogs in exchange for leniency with the legal system and licensing authorities. The battle had been going on for months, with sheriffs and inspectors knowing that the dogs were living in horrifically filthy conditions, often with very little food and water, and without adequate shelter for the larger dogs. Court dates were set and postponed, and meanwhile the dogs were left to suffer. Finally she agreed to let these 19 dogs come to HUA. It was precarious, and all could have fallen apart at the last minute, but thankfully she did not change her mind and these dogs were surrendered. At least half of the 40 dogs there would not have to continue to suffer pending the legal actions. Although rescuers made every effort at negotiation, she would not give up the others, and sadly her right to do that had not been successfully contested. Most of the dogs had been recently shaved, and poorly so. Some were burned and others deeply cut from the grooming hack jobs performed on them to try to cover up the months and years of neglect before they were handed over to rescue. Janis Joplin, a little Schnauzer girl, told the tale, however. She was so afraid that they had not been able to be catch her to be shaved the previous day. She was a good indication of what the other dogs must have looked like. She was filthy, she could not see because of the fur covering her eyes, and she had mats the size of golf balls encasing her feet and causing her to walk unsteadily. She was miserable. On the way back to the HUA shelter, Dr. Jim Gigstad, the HUA veterinarian, was called and put on alert to meet at the shelter to do triage on the dogs and document their conditions. Many volunteers and staff members were on hand to help lift the dogs gingerly from their crates and introduce them to their caregivers and warm, clean new accommodations. They all drank voraciously and inhaled food as if they had not had any for a long time. Some were shy but still crawled to the people with their bellies on the ground, not making eye contact but with their tails wagging as if to say, “Thank you for helping me.� They were all delighted just at the small acts of being fed, held and comforted. Even Janis Joplin, who had been so wildly afraid at the puppy mill, decided after only a few hours that she was in love with everyone at HUA, but most especially her rescuer John, whom she followed everywhere looking up at
him with complete adoration. Soon after we had been properly introduced to each one, we decided that they were all total rock stars for having survived such miserable conditions and for being able to put the experience behind them and shine, so they were all given rock star names. As the dogs were carried in one by one to meet Dr. Gigstad for their assessments, it was clear that not one would be in good health. Piles of evidence mounted as videos and over 500 photos documenting their conditions were taken. Sadness and the stench of filth and infection filled the exam room as Dr. Gigstad announced the plethora of problems with each one. Nearly every one was underweight, had putrid mouths, and suffered from raging skin and ear infections. In spite of being shaved, their feet were still encrusted with filth from walking in feces in their small cages, and their nails were overgrown and curling under. Several had luxating patellas from poor breeding. Nearly all had pH imbalances, probably from not having been provided with enough water. The poor little female bodies were worn out from years of giving birth over and over, with many having hernias and pyometra infections. KD Lang, a six-month-old puppy, would never have use of one front leg; it was too deformed to save. Bob Dylan had burn marks all over his body as well as a crusty pyoderma infection from having been brutally shaved. Alison Krauss had a deep open wound on the inside of her back leg that was full of infection. Sheryl Crow’s teeth were so rotten that she would lose most of them. Carly Simon had teeth that were hanging on by a thread. Eric Clapton had no lower jaw at all; it had just rotted away from years of disease and infection. Although his tongue hung out, he held his head high, proud and happy to be rescued. Dr. Gigstad wrote extensive reports on each dog, and HUA staff attached pictures to each to submit to the sheriff and district attorney to be used as evidence in the trial for cruelty and neglect. As the dogs left behind still suffer, their rock star friends are recovering well at HUA. Some have even been adopted. They are thriving in the first homes they have ever known. Please watch our blog, e-blasts (sign up at hua.org) and Facebook page for developments in this case. Your help may be needed for letter writing campaigns as trial dates grow closer, and hopefully there will be good news about the rest of the dogs left at this atrocious puppy mill. Often puppy mill rescue can be a slow process involving red tape, delays, and sometimes outcomes that are not in the interest of the dogs. Although it can be sad and heart-wrenching, it is more than worth the effort for the sake of the ones saved and the ones we fight to save. We extend our thanks to you for the support that you have shown the 19 rock stars. Without you HUA would not be able to stand ready to help dogs like them and their pals still trapped in puppy mills who are so desperately in need.
A True Hero - Rex In mid-May, nine-month-old Rex, an Akita/Husky mix, saved his family when intruders broke into their home, threw the woman of the house to the ground and held her by the throat. Rex charged one of the intruders and was shot by the second one. They fled when they realized that Rex was not going to back down, even after he had been shot with a .38 caliber hollow-point bullet. He fully intended to save his family, no matter what. Rex sustained severe injury to his left front leg where the bullet entered. He also had a broken toe on his right rear foot where the bullet exited. Rex was transported to the Animal Emergency Clinic in Omaha in severe distress and pain from the bullet wounds. The family was so very proud of Rex, and yet they were devastated because they did not have the funds they would need in order to save his life. The clinic called a Hearts United for Animals director at 2:00 a.m. asking if HUA would help to save Rex’s life and hopefully his leg. There was no hesitation. Rex was truly a hero and deserved every chance to recover and go home to his beloved family. Efforts began immediately to stabilize him and get him comfortable with pain medication. The next morning he was transferred to Mobile Animal Clinic, HUA’s preferred veterinary clinic in Omaha, where he was given the largest recovery suite with a big bed. The best orthopedic specialist in Omaha was called in to review Rex’s case, and it was determined that although the operation would be intricate, there was a good chance of saving Rex’s leg. The biggest risk was infection. Because of the bullet wound and bone fragments, Rex needed to be on intravenous antibiotics for four days to get the infection to subside enough to safely perform an operation involving many pins and plates. Rex was kept very comfortable while he awaited surgery, not even minding all of the media attention that his story garnered. When his family came to visit him, he smiled from ear to ear. They assured him that he had done a wonderful job. Rex was so happy to see that they were all safe and there for him in his time of need. Rex’s operation went even better than the specialist had anticipated, and a few days later he was on his way home with his family where he is still in the process of several weeks of rest and recovery. After eight weeks the external pins and rods will be removed, and Rex should have full use of his leg. The family is beyond grateful for HUA’s help in saving Rex, whom they call their hero and their big fluff ball. The day after Rex arrived at Mobile Animal Clinic, HUA received this message from Erin at the Animal Emergency Clinic regarding her experience with Rex and the work HUA does to help dogs in desperate need. She agreed that we could share it with you: Dear HUA, I have been a vet tech at the Animal Emergency Clinic for almost 10 years now. During that time I have cared for many animals, some only needed a little care, others needed a miracle. I have witnessed animals that have walked out of our hospital when nobody thought they would be able to. Last night, when Rex and his family came to us I was so proud of him for saving his family. He is a hero! When I learned that his family may not have the funds to help him, I was devastated. Here was this beautiful, stoic puppy that did the only thing that he knew to do to keep the people he loved safe, but because of finances his future was unknown. I left work at about 1:30am knowing that the family was still searching for a way to help him. One of my assistants called me and asked what they should do, and I could only think of one last try, and that was to call you! Later I got a message saying that you had agreed to pay for the medical bills so this family could take there precious friend home. I was in tears when I heard the news. I have cared for many animals that your rescue has stepped in and saved. Sometimes I forget why I am in this profession, and last night I was reminded that it is to help those that cannot help themselves. I just wanted to tell you that your rescue and the many people that are a part of it are angels and I will never forget how generous and wonderful you are. Thank you, for always being there, when sometimes others can’t. -Erin Rankin
Tips for Bringing a New Dog Home Time and patience are the keys in bringing a new dog into the home. Here are some tips and tricks we have learned over the years to make the transition go as smoothly as possible: • TERRITORY -- Introduce the new dog to the resident dog on neutral territory so that neither feels threatened or intimidated. If they quarrel over items like toys, remove the toys so that it is no longer an issue. Feed separately if food is the issue. Spending time with each dog individually is reassuring and comforting to them and can help them get along when together. • FOOD -- Dogs may go as long as a few days without eating due to the stress of the environment change. Feeding the same food as the shelter feeds (we always send some along) will be helpful to make them feel more at home and avoid gastrointestinal upset. Sometimes shy dogs will prefer to eat without humans around, so giving them time in a room alone with their food can be beneficial. Adding canned food or chicken to kibble can also help to jump-start their appetites, along with adding warm water to the kibble or heating the food in the microwave for a few seconds. • ACCIDENTS -- Accidents happen. Even housetrained dogs may need some time to re-learn. Keeping things positive and praising for a good job outside is a great start. Keeping the dog in sight at all times allows the human to learn the dog's cues and also to give a quick “eh eh” correction if an accident does happen. In tougher cases, adopters have achieved success by tying a long leash to the belt loop of the human to make sure the dog is in sight at all times (this may be too scary for a puppy mill dog). Giving the dog small amounts of supervised space at first and then opening up the home one room at a time works much better for the comfort level of the dog and for housetraining than giving a new dog full run of the house. • MARKING -- Marking may happen for many reasons. It could be territorial or dominance issues, or it may be due to fear and anxiety. Making sure the dog is supervised at all times and given limited space helps with correction. Baby gates are useful for this as well as for potty training. Belly bands are great to help save the furniture and carpet and teach the dog not to mark. They can be purchased online or in pet stores or even be sewn at home. • FEAR -- For dogs who are frightened and like to hide behind or under furniture, we recommend blocking off access, then spending quiet time with them. Too much interaction at first can be scary, but simply watching television or reading a book in the same room will help the dog get comfortable with his new human. • SEPARATION ANXIETY -- As the dog becomes more comfortable and bonded with his human, he may start to exhibit fear and anxiety when the human is gone. Limiting space, leaving the dog with a smart toy and keeping the radio or television on are all measures that may be reassuring. Not making a big deal out of coming and going will help the new dog get used to the routines of the house. Positive reinforcement, including high-value treats for great behavior, helps establish both a fun relationship and appropriate boundaries. For instance, if the dog jumps on people, turning around and waiting for the dog to become calm, then praising with a treat will reinforce the good behavior. Harsh punishment of bad behavior is always discouraged, as it just confuses and frightens the dog. Adoption is a very rewarding experience even though there may be a few bumps along the way. We are here to help. We have heard it all, including but not limited to completely de-stuffed sofas, a stand-alone dishwasher dragged down a flight of stairs, custom drapes torn in half, a laminated kitchen floor torn up, the dog chewing through laptop cords, driving the car solo through a strip mall, breaking through a patio door and bringing down the whole door, frame and all, cats coming up minus a little fur when the dog got too enthusiastic, etc. Feel free to write to us at hua@hua.org or reach out to us on Facebook if you would care for assistance with any issues. If we are stumped, we know many animal behaviorists across the country who may be able to help. Keeping dogs and cats in their wonderful homes is a top priority, and we are happy to give a little guidance -- whether you have adopted from HUA or not. Of course, if your dog does something hilariously naughty, like masterminding the explosion of a 50-pound bag of dog food in the living room, we will insist on pictures for our Facebook page!
The Demise of LB 204 On March 13th, the Judiciary Committee of the Nebraska Unicameral Senate conducted a hearing for Legislative Bill 204. LB 204 is one example of what has become commonly known as Ag-Gag legislation. LB 204 has two provisions. First, any person who reasonably believes that an animal has been abandoned, cruelly neglected, or cruelly mistreated must report the incident to whatever authority exists in that particular jurisdiction within 24 hours. The report must be on a prescribed form, and all documentation— videos, photographs, or audio—must be turned over to the authority. Failure to report as described is a Class III misdemeanor. Subsequently, the bill adds a statement that there is no obligation for anyone to report anything, but if one chooses to do so, it must be done as specified. Of course, the result is to discourage reporting abuse. The second provision states that any person who makes a false statement to gain employment at an animal facility with the intent to damage or interfere with operations and intentionally causes economic damage or places any person in reasonable fear shall face charges ranging from a Class I misdemeanor to a Class I-B felony and possibly have to make monetary restitution. These provisions pertain to any farming operation, market, exhibit, research facility, zoo, aquarium, animal shelter, pet store, breeder, furrier, circus, rodeo or any competitive animal event or transportation of animals. Animal welfare groups have sought to reach the public to put an end to the factory farming of puppies. There is little reliance on passing laws meant to protect animals because they are watered down and poorly enforced at that. The entire puppy industry relies on secrecy and dishonesty. Most puppy mills are located in remote places—up in the hills, over winding dirt roads, far from the public view. Visitors are not at all welcome. Breeders meet prospective puppy buyers in parking lots making sure that no one sees their miserable facilities or their pitiful animals. If people are allowed on the premises of a breeding location, puppies will be brought out to be shown, keeping everyone away from the animal housing. Pet store employees are trained to tell people that their puppies come from reputable breeders, although it is well known that good breeders do not wholesale their puppies to retail outlets. People who have attended dog auctions and tried to take pictures have been roughed up and had their cameras seized and broken by the auctioneers and the breeders, sometimes with the local sheriff in attendance. Ag-Gag laws would further promote the injustice and make dog rescuers the criminals. Nebraska Senator Ernie Chambers called the bill atrocious. Bob Barker, former host of “The Price is Right,” wrote a letter to the legislative committee asking them to kill the provision. Alan Peterson, lobbyist for the American Civil Liberties Union, called the bill “the most blatantly unconstitutional approach to lawmaking” he had ever seen and added that it violates free speech rights, protection against unreasonable search and seizures, due process safeguards, and protection against self-incrimination.
The whole purpose of the Ag-Gag bills is to prevent animal welfare groups from documenting abuse. Proponents of the Nebraska bill argued that abuse should be reported immediately for the protection of the animals ignoring the fact that any isolated incident would not trigger an investigation by authorities. ACLU lobbyist Peterson said, “This is just awful, and frankly it’s disingenuous to say you’re trying to protect animals.” Proponents also argue that investigations should be conducted by authorities rather than by animal welfare people, but government inspectors have been known to turn a blind eye toward evidence of abuse. When a USDA inspector was taped coaching a plant worker on how to avoid being shut down, U. S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack called the behavior “inexcusable.” Inspectors for dog breeding facilities have advised puppy millers not to let the public in. Kevin Fulton, rancher in Central Nebraska and chair of an agricultural advisory committee, is a strong proponent of humane farming. Fulton said in his testimony, “The livestock industry has no intention of stopping animal abuse. If they did they would have taken action long ago. We need to encourage transparency and accountability, instead of eroding it with bills like this.” While documented investigations of abhorrent practices have triggered arrests, convictions, and shut downs in some states, in other states legislators have responded by attacking the informers, the whistleblowers. Ag-Gag bills have been introduced in a dozen states, some prohibiting photography, some dictating terms of employment, others even requiring animal people to be registered as terrorists. Bob Barker has been quoted as saying, “These ridiculous, unsavory laws are being pushed in various states all over the country. There’s only one purpose for any and all of them, and that is to protect people who are committing animal cruelty.” This legislation appears to have been inspired by the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), a business advocacy group with many state representatives from farm states as members. Senator Chambers described ALEC as follows: “And what ALEC is is an outfit that gives senators what they call memberships and will pay their way to be propagandized, and they become little flunkies for ALEC.” Thanks to the wisdom and ethics of some Nebraska Senators, LB 204 was given a humane death in Nebraska.
HUA’s Emergency Medical Program Saves Hearts United for Animals receives many calls each week from low-income families who have nowhere else to turn. They have no available funds and do not qualify to be accepted for Care Credit, a program established to loan funds to families with emergency medical needs. HUA is literally their last hope to save the lives of their beloved pets and to keep those pets in their homes with their families who love them. Many happy tears are shed as the families hear that HUA will help. Sammy from Nebraska was in a world of pain with a torn cruciate ligament that caused him to become lame. His family could not afford the operation he needed after exhausting all options. After a quick call to HUA, he went to a veterinary hospital in Lincoln where HUA paid for his surgery so that he could be happy, free of pain, and walk again. Sammy is very happy with the results and wants to thank you for helping to make his surgery possible. Roxie from Florida was burned with acid by criminals who entered her yard while she was playing, just for the purpose of torturing her. Her family could only afford half of the $3,000 for the extensive surgeries that were needed to save her life. Roxie has a long road ahead and is still recovering. She is doing well. Her family is very grateful to HUA and wishes to warn everyone of the dangers of leaving dogs outside unattended. They never thought this would happen to their dear Roxie and have vowed to never leave her outside alone again.
Princess, a four-year-old Pitbull from Pennsylvania, had a cancerous lump on her back leg. Her family was able to afford the testing, but could not afford the removal of the lump. After phoning pages and pages of organizations who said no, they were shocked and so very relieved to learn that HUA would help. The phone was silent as many tears were shed and Princess’s dad finally said “Do you mean it? You will really help?”. He was so overwhelmed that he needed some time to gather his thoughts and call us back a few minutes later with details of where to send payment for Princess’s care. Princess’s mom sent this note after her tumor was successfully excised – “You guys will always be in our hearts. We appreciate all the things you do to save animals.”
Angel from Arkansas desperately needed help as she lay slowly dying from having a pup lodged in her birth canal for days. No veterinary clinic would help her elderly owner who had no money to spend for Angel’s care. By the time Angel’s owner found out about HUA, Angel was septic and required a long hospital stay to get well after the pup was removed. As part of the agreement to help Angel, HUA insisted that she be spayed. Angel survived and will never have another litter of unwanted pups again.
Lives & Keeps Pets With Their Families Ushi was shot while strolling in her neighborhood in Florida. She was in severe pain at the vet’s office and would have had to be euthanized if funding did not become immediately available for her care. HUA worked with the veterinary hospital so that Ushi could have her leg amputated right away. She was reunited with her very grateful owner after a few days of hospital care and is doing well. She will not be going on any more outdoor adventures! She has decided that apartment life is just fine with her. When Felix from Iowa arrived at the new Urgent Pet Care hospital in Omaha, it was his sixth vet visit in 24 hours. He was in severe pain and was vomiting continuously. His family vet did not find a cause and referred him to another vet in Omaha, an hour away from home, for a scope. The scope did not turn up any reason for his sudden severe illness. It was determined he would need exploratory surgery or he was not likely to make it through the night. His vet in the small town he was from was mainly a large animal vet and was not comfortable performing the operation. After being turned away by three other Omaha vets because the family funds had been exhausted, Felix landed in the right place. The Urgent Pet Care hospital called an HUA director for help. A few hours later Felix was resting comfortably after having a four-inch corncob removed from his intestines! Lyric the kitten was found by a kind stranger in rural Nebraska who noticed that something was wrong with her leg. She was taken to a veterinary office where it was determined that her leg was badly broken and would require orthopedic surgery with pins in order to save it. HUA gladly helped with the surgery and Lyric is now growing up to be a healthy, agile, loving new family member. After her recovery the family who rescued her decided they could not let this beautiful little soul go to a shelter, so they stepped up to take Lyric in and give her a wonderful forever home. Nelly, a gorgeous retriever pup, was rescued by a family who was told she had been fully vaccinated. It soon became clear that was not true, as Nelly became severely ill with parvo, a disease that would painfully take her life if not treated right away. The family had just spent a fortune saving their other dog from a deadly illness and were in complete panic at the thought of losing Nelly. Their funds had run out and they were trying desperately to sell their only family vehicle to pay for her care when they heard about HUA. When HUA representatives received the call, they made sure that Nelly was immediately checked into an animal hospital in Lincoln. A few days later Nelly was home with her wonderful family bounding around the back yard playing fetch with the children who were ever so grateful to have their sweet puppy pal back. Tears streamed down their precious little faces when they went to help their mom pick up Nelly at the hospital and realized that she would be ok. These are just a few examples of the approximately 200 emergency medical cases HUA helps with each year. Your generosity helped to save the lives of these precious family pets who would have perished without a helping hand from supporters who respond and provide mercy and compassion in a most desperate time of need.
The Thurston County 13 In January Hearts United for Animals received a tip through Facebook regarding 13 dogs living outdoors in wretchedly filthy pens with no food, and with water dishes that were either empty or so frozen solid that the dogs could not drink. Some of the dogs did not even have pens and were tethered to small doghouses with heavy chains that weighed down their emaciated bodies. When HUA representatives reported this to Rick Herchenbach, an inspector at the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, he acted quickly. The sheriff’s department in Thurston County became involved as well as the district attorney. Through their combined efforts, HUA was able to rescue the dogs immediately. The dogs were all so happy and grateful to be rescued. They wagged their tails as they were carried to the HUA van and relaxed immediately with big smiles on their faces as they settled into their clean travel crates with warm blankets, the first warmth they had felt in months. The dogs rescued were three Bluetick Coonhounds, one Treeing Walker Coonhound, one Scottish Deerhound, and the rest a variety of Staghounds (a combination of Greyhound and Scottish Deerhound), sighthounds used for coursing game and other animals. Because of their exceptionally poor condition, they were taken immediately to Mobile Animal Clinic in Omaha where they stayed for a week. They were dehydrated, full of worms, and some as much as 20 pounds underweight. They were all named after towns and counties in the area. Ponca, one of the Staghounds, had old eye injuries that had not been attended to, causing her some permanent sight loss. Laurel, a beautiful white Staghound, was covered in blood. She had severely injured her tail on the makeshift wire pen that held her captive, and although it was a recent wound, it was already full of infection from the inches of filth in her pen. Her tail required immediate amputation, and she was on a week of intravenous antibiotics in order to prevent her from dying of the infection. Yutan, the lone Scottish Deerhound, was nicknamed “Dread” by his veterinarian because of the dreadlocks that encased his body. It took the clinic staff hours to shave him down, and they apologized for the less than spectacular outcome, but Yutan did not mind. He appreciated being clean and free from all of the matting, and he loved the attention from the kind people. He was rescued just in time to save his life, as he had a bad oral cancer. It was removed, and to date there has been no recurrence. This rescue posed challenges for HUA that were different from the typical puppy mill rescue. All of the dogs were 40 to 60 pounds, and many were capable of leaping or scaling tall fences with ease. During their first few days at HUA, the Coonhounds showed off their climbing abilities and required toppers on their condos to contain them. However, after they settled in, not one made an attempt to escape. They were so content with
their new lives at HUA that they would not think of running away. Burt reminds us of his gratitude every day with his big, silly, toothy grin that clearly says “I love you.” As much as these loving, beautiful dogs hated being left out in the cold, in inches of feces and with no food or water, the lack of human attention and affection was just as bad if not worse for them. They let us know how much they appreciate what they now have. Many of them cling to their caregivers, giving them big hugs each day, just so happy to see the people they love and to know they are loved in return. Many of them have already found homes and have settled in very well, completely amazed at their wonderful new lives as part of a family. The rest are still waiting for their forever homes, but they are waiting happily as they enjoy all of the comforts of home at HUA. They are so sweet and tender-hearted that it is hard for their caregivers to say goodbye when the dogs move on to the next joyful phase of their lives.
Laurel
This was a rescue that moved quickly and was all about the best interest of the dogs. It was refreshing to find government officials so willing to work together to make things happen fast for these dogs who were languishing, dehydrated, starving and injured. Shockingly, that is often not the case, and dogs continue to suffer while the humans in power try to shift and shirk responsibility and are too fearful or uncaring to help. Many thanks go out to Inspector Rick Herchenbach, Thurston County Sheriff Shelly Perez, and District Attorney Nora Goll for stepping up to help save these dogs before it was too late. While it may seem like a given that they would do this, HUA has witnessed situations time and time again where red tape and tossing the issue like a hot potato have caused additional suffering and even the death of obviously neglected animals. Burt and his friends are sending extra big grins to the officials who coordinated the effort to save them. They would also like to thank the HUA supporters who always come through with funding to make rescues like this possible. Without your kind and generous support, Hearts United for Animals would not be able to save precious lives like these on a moment’s notice.
Beemer
Burt
Concord
Ponca
Hooper
Gretna
Wayne
Nacora
Altona
Scribner
Yutan
Enola
When Spring is in the Air All the HUA dogs enjoy their exercise yards. Many times a day they can be seen running and playing happily with their friends or just sitting, taking in the sights and sounds. But as soon as winter is over and the grass is turning green, it is time for some real fun. Golf carts and Gators
attach to a Canine Caboose to carry many little dogs at a time to the big grass play yards. Dogs too large for the Caboose love the leash walks out to the yards. The Picket Yard, near the front of the acreage, is a long-time favored gathering place for dogs and people. Dogs of all sizes love the Picket Yard with lots of running space and two huge oak trees. The feet of many puppy mill survivors have touched grass for the first time in this yard. One attraction of this yard is a large hole under the picnic table. Every year there are dogs who take great interest in the hole. Some like to contribute to the excavation job. Others prefer just to sit in it. The Homeward Bound building, constructed in 2009, has another popular yard. Many social activities are the order of the day in this yard—lots of sniffing the grass and playing games of chase or lap sitting and cuddling with volunteers and staff. In this yard many shy little dogs have learned that meeting lots of people is a good thing. The Agility Park is a great place for dogs who love to run because it has a huge expanse of running room, but even dogs who would rather meander around and roll in the grass love this park. Some dogs show a special talent for possible training, and as soon as the snow is off the ground, agility practice begins. This year there are some new faces attending agility practice sessions. Kirsten is learning the role of trainer and working with Brice, an Australian Shepherd. Brice adores Kirsten and will do
anything she says. He is a brilliant pupil in agility, learning everything very fast, but he was a seriously abused dog before he came to HUA. It is so sad that this gorgeous dog was damaged early in his life causing him to become menacing at times. Agility practice is good for Brice because it provides an outlet for energy and also a sure way to receive attention and admiration from people. Seeker, a darling little Papillon, is training with John. Seeker is so sweet that he greets every person he meets with loving attention. He is a ray of sunshine and so fast on his feet and intelligent that he has easily advanced in agility training. Of course, the legendary Eartha is showing the new dogs how it is done. Eartha, a large, black, mixed-breed dog rescued from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, is now estimated to be ten years old. Her awards in agility trials line the entry hall of the main HUA building. She is still faster than the wind and so bonded with John her trainer that she instantly conquers every obstacle in a difficult running course. Her ribbons from just one weekend this year make a beautiful display in the HUA office. This spring after weeks of intensive effort, the construction of a new fenced yard was completed. John and Ed pounded posts and strung wire for what seemed to be an eternity and created The Fenced Acreage. The Acreage lies conveniently between the Villas and the Canine Condos to provide easy access of those dogs, and small dogs hop the Canine Caboose to visit this wonderfully spacious area that covers three acres. Just as soon as the Acreage was finished, dogs could be seen romping and playing in it. Concord, a Deerhound, and Vi, a Vizsla mix, had the time of their lives in wild games of chase. Of course, the youngest dogs had the most fun. Polly, Joe Boxer, and Melvern really lived it up until Polly decided to stop for a belly rub. All the canine visitors to the new yard give it a stamp of approval. The dogs are thrilled, and everyone loves watching them have such a good time. When they go back to their buildings, they are ready for a big nap.
Party Animals The dogs and cats at Hearts United for Animals know how to throw a party! Several times a year they take over the Facebook page, inviting all of their fans to participate in the festivities. So far this year they have thrown a Valentine party, a St Patrick’s Day party, an Easter party, a 4th of July party, and the all time fan favorite – an Oscar’s night party. Facebook fans voted on “Who Wore It Better”, with Luke and Lacey winning top prize for Best Dressed Male and Best Dressed Female. Some of the dogs love dressing up, while most of them just attend the parties for the snacks and good company. They invite you to like their Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/heartsunitedforanimals to participate.
Who Wore it Better?
A Decade of Prevention The HUA Spay/Neuter clinic is celebrating its tenth year of operation this year. Since the beginning in October of 2003, over 10,000 dogs and cats belonging to the public have been the patients of the clinic. The clinic operates every Wednesday when our veterinarian, Dr. James Gigstad of Arbor Valley Animal Clinic in Nebraska City, leaves his own busy practice to spend the day here working to prevent pet overpopulation. The appointment schedule is always full, and there is a waiting list extending for months. In addition, many pets are brought in for low-cost vaccinations and free veterinary consultation and supplies. The rewards are numerous. Litters of puppies and kittens are not born only to suffer and die. Families escape the burden of unwanted litters and can give their pets healthier, happier lives. Rescue groups have affordable spay/neuter for their valuable work. The rampant reproduction in feral cat colonies is abated. The work involved in the clinic is never easy. It begins with difficult scheduling and repeated phone calls as reminders, all to ensure that just as many animals as possible can have the appointment time needed. The surgical staff spends the entire day in surgical preparation, procedures, and monitored recovery—all with the highest regard for the patients. Year after year, the clinic has functioned with one goal in mind, which is to stop the suffering of animals. It is a beacon of enlightenment for animal welfare in the Midwest. Another program of mercy began late in 2012. HUA was awarded a grant from the Yahoo Employees Foundation for free spay/neuter in Omaha. Income-qualified families make application for their pets who receive quality care at Mobile Animal Clinic in Omaha. Other health care costs are supplied by HUA from general funding, and the dogs and cats return to their homes in much improved health. To date the program has provided free Fergie was treated for heartworms before she could have her spay operation. spay/neuter to sixty-six animals whose families had encountered serious economic hardship, some nearly destitute. In addition, it has given animals the veterinary care needed for an array of health problems ranging from simple procedures to treating something as deadly as heartworms. Truly, the gratitude is all to our supporters. The programs that do so much good are costly. The spay/neuter clinic operates at a deficit of over $55,000 annually. All our ability to provide care drastically needed relies on the kindness and generosity of people who care. We thank you for the help that means all the world to the animals.
Corona returned a few weeks after her spay needing an 8 inch bowel resection because she ate a sock.
Kids Care We continue to be inspired and amazed at the care and compassion that young people show for animals in need. There is no doubt that the next generation will be comprised of a strong legion of animal welfare people ready to help fight injustice. It is a movement that is growing. As young people read the stories of the rescued animals and the poor conditions that they came from, they feel an overwhelming desire to help. Many cannot imagine not helping. They are the strong, bright, dedicated future of animal welfare.
Mark, from Papillion, Nebraska, organized a donation drive for HUA for his Eagle Scout project. He contacted hotels in Omaha for blankets, towels and other supplies the shelter needed. He also brought in cash donations to help with the dogs’ medical needs.
For Avery’s birthday she asked that instead of presents her friends bring donations for HUA. Avery and her sister Bryn, from Omaha, present Sanctuary Sweetheart Lacey with the donation money they raised for her care and the care of the 400 other dogs at the shelter.
Ila Jean’s kids, from Eudora, Kansas, present Noah and Carol, founder of HUA, with a check from their Oragami Owl fundraiser. Noah is calculating how many treats $330 will buy. Shortly after this photo was taken, Noah was found surfing the web for Milk Bone coupons.
Ella, from Omaha, coordinated a bake sale to help raise money for HUA. It was a big success. Ella and her family fostered Paris, the blind dachshund who recently passed away from mammary cancer that spread to her lungs. They are a wonderful, compassionate family.
Anna, from Syracuse, Nebraska, babysits frequently and saved the entire amount she made in the year 2012 to donate to HUA for the care of the dogs. You are amazing, Anna!
The students at Willowdale Elementary in Omaha chose HUA for their charity drive. The items they collected throughout the month filled an SUV!
A group of 3rd and 5th grade Girl Scouts from Omaha came to spend the day at HUA. The dogs loved their visit and invite them to return for more loving any time. Two of the young ladies are adopters of HUA dogs and have been doing fundraising for the shelter for years, dating back to a lemonade stand in their driveway when they were in Kindergarten.
A group of high school age Girl Scouts from Omaha came to spend a lovely Spring Saturday helping to socialize frightened little puppy mill dogs. The girls had an amazing time, as did the dogs! They said the hardest part was not being able to take them all home.
We send our heartfelt gratitude to all of the beautiful young people who have helped the animals at HUA throughout the past year. You are the future leaders in animal protection and prevention of cruelty.
The Heart of No-Kill Roscoe, Turner and Tundra’s Story We are often asked how many placements we do in a week, a month, or a year. Large numbers are often considered the measure of success in the work of animal rescue and adoption. It is a shift in thought to understand that for many of the dogs and cats at HUA, the mere fact that they are here, alive and happy, is the ultimate success. Many will not find homes at all, as they are too emotionally or physically damaged, or some may be adopted after months or years by special adopters who will open their hearts to pets with such special needs. While many shelters strive to accept only the youngest, healthiest, and most easily placed, HUA is there for those who have no other options. Turner the Pug, Roscoe the Dachshund, and Tundra the Samoyed were rescued from a hoarder home by Animal Control in a large city. Turner and Roscoe were originally from two of the most notorious puppy mills in the Midwest. They were rescued by breed rescue groups and placed in a foster home that unfortunately deteriorated due to poor finances and the continual collection of animals. Roscoe and Turner became best pals in the hoarder house. Roscoe is blind and relies on his Pug friend to guide him and protect him. Both are completely feral and absolutely terrified of humans. Roscoe and Turner cannot be touched by humans without screaming and biting wildly. Turner came from a puppy mill where he lived in a shack deep in the woods in a small cage filled with filthy hay. His only interaction with humans was to be picked up by the scruff of the neck and thrown around while he screamed for his life. The puppy mill Roscoe came from beat the dogs with shovels, which may have contributed to his blindness and back injury. They are so feral that they must be sedated to be examined or even have routine vaccinations. Despite how awful this sounds, they are exceptionally happy boys when they are together with no humans around. They live in an indoor/outdoor playpen with access to a large exercise yard. They enjoy their space to run around and play, their comfortable beds and blankets and the fact that their need for personal space is respected by the staff and volunteers. This is not the life anyone could have envisioned for a lovely Pug and Dachshund duo, but because of their years of damage and abuse, this is the best arrangement for them. They must be able to live life on their own terms, free of the pure terror that humans strike in their hearts. While the HUA representative was at the Animal Control facility to pick up Roscoe and Turner, she was asked if she might consider taking in Tundra who came in with them. Tundra is not feral. He is a very sweet boy, but he was in awful condition. Animal Control estimated him to be age thirteen. He smiled and enjoyed being petted but had trouble standing up due to the severe arthritis in his back legs. His fur was orange and peeling off in sheets from flea allergies. It was decided that Tundra would be welcome to come live out his days at HUA too. All three were taken directly to a veterinarian for examinations. The big shock was that Tundra was estimated by the veterinarian to be only six years old. He had double torn anterior cruciate ligaments at some time much earlier in his life. They were never treated, so debilitating arthritis set in. Tundra was evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon who felt that the situation was beyond repair, but that Tundra could be given a good quality of life with medication and gentle care. It took many weeks at HUA for him to recover from his flea allergy issues and for the medication to start working enough for him to get up and walk by himself. He is very happy now and enjoys going for slow, short walks each day. His beautiful white fur has returned to normal, and he loves the attention of humans. Tundra is an adoption candidate, but because of his special needs it is not anticipated that he will find a home quickly. Tundra, Roscoe and Turner are alive and well today because of your generous contributions that allowed us to save their precious, fragile lives less than twenty-four hours before they were scheduled to be euthanized at the city shelter. They are an example of the reason why HUA does not count high volume adoptions as a measure of success. To us they are not numbers; they are treasured individuals.
Legacy of Love - Mary Williamson Mary Williamson of Omaha recently passed away, leaving behind Mo, a Standard Poodle, as her only surviving family member. As a longtime supporter of HUA, Mary knew that providing for Mo in her will was important. When HUA heard of Mary’s passing, Mo was picked up and immediately taken to a veterinarian for a checkup and then taken to the HUA shelter where he was provided comfort and love while he grieved the loss of his dear person. Mo tugged at the heartstrings of a good former adopter and was soon off to his second new home where he is enjoying a second new life of love and happiness. Mo’s adopter loved learning all about Mary. Mary was a woman of great importance, not only to Mo, but to her friends, family, students and to the history of the United States. She was one of the first WASPS (Women Air Force Service Pilots), having served in World War II. She was also an accomplished Professor of Communications at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Her most cherished role, however, was as caregiver for Mo. She was at peace in leaving this world, knowing that she had provided well for him, as well as for other animals at Hearts United for Animals. Her legacy of a vibrant life well lived, including a deep love of animals and desire to help the ones most in need, will live on. Mo’s person has gladly made the promise to Mary’s friends that he will return to Mary’s memorial service this summer to help Mo say his final good-byes and pay tribute to this wonderful woman of distinction, or as he knew her, “Mom”. The greatest gift we can give our companion animals is to make certain that they are cared for if something should happen to us. Unfortunately, we can tell you story after story of dogs and cats who were abandoned after their people passed away. Many are shuffled around from person to person, or worse yet have their lives ended at a city pound. Think carefully about the needs of your companions and make the decision in advance about who will care for them. Discuss it with the person you have chosen. Talk to them about the animal's needs, and be sure they are willing to undertake the responsibility. Include the information about the caregiver in your will. For those who do not have a family member or friend who will happily take on the responsibility of caring for your pet, Hearts United for Animals has created the Legacy of Love program. HUA has prepared a booklet that lists all of the information that anyone would need to care for your precious friend. The categories and detail are extensive to ensure that nothing is forgotten. To learn more about the Legacy of Love program and including Hearts United for Animals in your will, please contact us at hua@hua.org.
HUA Cats Conduct Promo The HUA cats love attention. When there are guests in the cat room, they are ecstatic, especially when people sit on the floor so that cats can climb around on them. There are many visitors to the cat room. People love to meet the cats, and also, the cat room has the attraction of being the only quiet place in the shelter. The cats, however, think that they are not getting equal time with the dogs. So they had a meeting and decided that they would all put their best paw forward and call in a photographer to illustrate their many exceptional attributes and talents.
VIGO wished to demonstrate his ability with the Cat Smart Box. Vigo once lived in a home. He was declawed before being left out to fend for himself and landing in the city pound. Vigo is aware that he is quite intelligent and also extremely good looking.
BOSTON is a master of espionage. He is good at locating a nook in the cats’ ceiling interstate and spying down on everyone. Boston was an abandoned kitten foraging for food in trash containers before he came to HUA. When he is not on a spy mission, he is a very social creature who loves to meet people.
A number of cats believe they would make excellent cat models and should be on the cover of some cat fancier’s magazine. They posed beautifully for the camera. From left to right they are: KOSHKA, a Russian Blue recently in from the pound; COTTON, who was found starving in the country; and SLICK, a Tuxedo who was brought in from a small town before an ice storm would have gotten him. They are all as sweet as they are gorgeous and love to take part in any cat activities.
Another group of cats really wished to demonstrate their agility talents. They are hoping to perform in cat Olympics. MOCHA, who is practicing on the spiral stairway, arrived at HUA when he was a tiny kitten trying to cross a major highway on a blistering hot day. Mocha had such a powerful flea infestation that he barely survived, but he is now sleek and healthy and has learned impressive acrobatic feats. COTTON and SLICK also wished to demonstrate on the stairway, but they hit a traffic jam because it is one-way only. T. P. is pictured doing a catly twist on the floor because she believes that not all cat agility is performed in high places. T. P. is what is known as a Tia’s Place individual. She is here waiting for her family to come back for her.
MIDNIGHT and FRANK are showing their skill with a game of Cat Pool. They are perplexed because the ball never goes down a hole, but they are determined cats and will not give up. Midnight is a lovely kitten who was rescued recently from a pound. She has silver tufts in her glossy black hair making her the envy of others who would need a beauty shop for that. Frank grew up at HUA after being trapped as a feral kitten. No one would ever know that Frank was once feral. He is a party cat and plays a lead role in all cat room endeavors. SQUEAK wished to do his part although he has not yet overcome the fear of people that he learned at a very young age. Squeak was living in a storm sewer when he was rescued by a kind person and brought to the HUA shelter. He now trusts his caregivers, but he has a strong tendency toward hiding when other people are present. It took a lot of courage for Squeak to pose on the ceiling highway with a camera pointed at him.
Some members of the cat group, however, were an embarrassment to all the others. They would not do anything for the promotional event because they had been up all night prowling around and partaking of too much catnip. They slept in all day. This group shall remain nameless.
P.O. Box 286 • Auburn, NE 68305
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Winning the War-Freedom Rings for 17 Puppy Mill Dogs The week of July 4th, seventeen puppy mill dogs were granted their freedom from a South Dakota puppy mill. The most curious aspect of the rescue is that eleven of the seventeen dogs are puppies, only a few months old. They are all gorgeous, cuddly and friendly. Typically the mothers and fathers are thrown out when they are too old to breed, and by that time their bodies and spirits are completely broken. So why were these perfect little puppies granted their freedom? The breeder stated that even the most adorable puppies are not selling! This is a great sign that educational efforts are paying off. The public is learning where pet store puppies come from and they are refusing to buy them. We are winning the war on puppy mills, and we must continue the fight. The dogs are counting on us.