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pet rescue magazine

May 2009

local stories...local people...local pets

Pet Rescue Magazine Alberta Owned & Operated

Brought to you by the Pet Rescue Team Publishers J. Hunter V. Marando

Contributing Writers Rachel Sentes, Publicist How To Reach Us: We welcome comments, suggestions, article ideas, or questions. Please send them to: Pet Rescue Magazine Box 37099, 8712-150 Street, Edmonton, AB T5R 1E0 (780) 637-0999 email rescuemag@shaw.ca www.petrescuemagazine.com Pet Rescue Magazine is dedicated to saving the lives of homeless animals by promoting adoptions of rescued pets. Our goal is to provide an up-to-date pictorial directory of shelters, humane societies and rescue organizations in Alberta. Deadline for submissions is the 15th of each month prior to publication. Please note that Pet Rescue Magazine reserves the right to refuse or amend editorial pieces at its discretion. Pet Rescue Magazine is published on a monthly basis by Finally Free Publishing, Inc. Pet Rescue Magazine cannot guarantee the health or temperament of any animal offered for adoption through this publication. We try to keep information as current and accurate as possible; however, we cannot guarantee the availability of a specific animal. Prospective pet parents must contact the organization directly to make certain a particular pet is still available or to inquire about the adoption process. Disclaimer: Finally Free Publishing, Inc. does not endorse or guarantee any products, services, or vendors mentioned in Pet Rescue Magazine, nor can it be responsible for problems with their products or services. Also, Finally Free Publishing, Inc. reserves the right to reject, at its discretion, any advertisment. Views expressed in Pet Rescue Magazine are not necessarily those of Finally Free Publishing, Inc.

Reproduction in whole or part without prior written consent of publisher is prohibited. Finally Free Publishing is an incorporated company.

EVERYTHING HAS VALUE ESPECIALLY THE TREASURES IN THIS PUBLICATION Please circulate pet rescue magazine to help ensure these rescues get maximum exposure and find new homes. local stories...local people...local pets

Beautiful Dakoda, so good, so well mannered, so quiet…they only have good things to say about me! I stay with my people, love kids and dogs, listen well and will do my best to be the absolute perfect roommate. I am about 2yrs old…just adopt me already!!! More information on me can be found at PARS www.prairieanimalrescue.org

In this issue

4 8

Tail of the Month Amazing Dogs by Lisa Wojna Step Into My Heart ~ True Story

My name is Druid… and you’ve probably seen me here before. SCARS just can’t believe my adoption match has not been found, they say I’m amazing! I am a loyal friendly boy who loves rides, playing with toys and learning new tricks. I require a secure yard because I have been known to take myself on adventures...a family willing to include me in their adventures would be AWESOME. For more information on me call SCARS (780) 466-SCAR.

15 16

Horoscopes Tails from Home Guiness Update

Rescue Organizations

4 6 6 7 9 9 9

Duke & Duchess Animal Rescue Society Spay/Neuter Action Program Chinook Winds Greyhound Rescue Foundation Northern Alberta Society for Animal Protection Edmonton Humane Society Humane Animal Rescue Team Hinton & District SPCA

Cover:

10 10 11 11 13 14 15

Forget Me Not Cat Sanctuary Safe Haven Animal Rescue Edmonton Society Parkland K-9 Society Second Chance Animal Rescue Society Edmonton Reptile & Amphibian Society Providing Animals with Safety for Life Grande Prairie SPCA

Well hello it is me Cinnamon, these days I go by Tara Cinnamon. Everyone loves to me to bits because I am just that adorable! I am under 2yrs old and even more beautiful in person. I am looking for a family who will lovelovelove me forever! Do you know someone that needs a best buddy? I just want a home and people to call my own! For more information about me please email PAKS at pak9@yahoo.ca pet rescue magazine

May 2009

Tail of the Month

Rachel Sentes Book Review

Amazing Dogs by Lisa Wojna

“Our dogs will love and admire the meanest of us, and feed our colossal vanity with their uncritical homage.” - Agnes Repplier With spring finally on its way, many people’s thoughts turn to either getting a new puppy or spending more time with their furry friend outside camping or hiking. Just to remind all of us how much our dogs mean to us, Lisa Wojna has written a great little book called Amazing Dogs, Stories of Brilliance, Loyalty, Courage & Extraordinary Feats. Complete with dozens of photographs and quick facts about dogs, this book is a lovely read that can be picked up as a straight through read or for those moments when you are waiting to catch a bus. The book is divided into four sections which include: Beyond Belief chronicling every day heroes, Lending a Hand which focuses on personal assistance dogs including pet therapy animals and guide dogs, Hard at Work which explores the role dogs play as guardians of people in war and in 911, and finally A Dog’s Life and Other Tidbits a collection of stories that will make you laugh and cry. The book includes stories from Alberta to Great Britain and from Ontario to Finland but I do love to support local authors and it’s nice to read a great book so close to home. Lisa is a prolific writer and has published the books Canadian Firsts, and Amazing Dog Stories to name a few. Consider picking this one up this Mother’s Day, it makes for a great gift.

Duke & Duchess Animal Rescue Society I am a Newfie X around 1.5yr old and apparently I have magnificent colours. My name is Shelby. I’m a big girl but very gentle and great with kids. I get along with other dogs and little dogs are not afraid of me. As I’m a full figured girl I’m told I’m going to be learning about portion control and taking out a membership at the Y. I’m such a happy girl!

Yahoo! Shelby and I came from the pound together. My name is Shadow and I’m a 5yr old male Golden Retriever. When you meet me you will quickly see that I’m a gentle, friendly, go with the flow kind of guy. My foster mom is helping me get back into shape...maybe Shelby and I can get a 2 for 1 deal at the Y! I sure am a handsome guy if I do say so myself. I love kids and I’m good with other dogs too. Cuddle, cuddle, cuddle; that’s what I really like to do. When I’m in my foster mom’s arms I just slip into dreamland wondering where my forever home will be. I’m an 8wk old Shepherd X named Peggy. I have a gentle personality and I’m a very good puppy. Can you believe that somebody just left me by a highway rest area to fend for myself?

www.ddars.com ~ (780) 483-0931 4

pet rescue magazine

May 2009

local stories...local people...local pets

Lap It Up Happy Mothers Day! Finally a month of decent weather “April showers bring May flowers.” Thankfully that’s even true in Alberta when April delivers snow! We are so pleased to bring you an update on a prior rescue featured in PRM! Many of you will remember Guinness (“RCMP TO The Rescue” featured in the March 09 issue), a rescue from Prairie Animal Rescue Society. His neck has nearly finished healing, his large frame has filled in quite a bit, his sweet and grateful eyes are no longer sunken and there is now joy in his sweet furry face. We had the pleasure of meeting this lovely boy and were smitten from the second he gently placed his massive paws in the air asking to get close for a hug –what a doll! Please check out our ‘Tails From Home’ column on page 16 for an update letter on this special boy in his new home. Also just a reminder that PRM welcomes all rescue organizations in Alberta to participate providing they have a Spay & Neuter program and their animals receive medical examinations before adoption. If you know of a group who would be interested in placing their animals in PRM please have them contact us directly.

The PRM Team

local stories...local people...local pets

pet rescue magazine

May 2009

Spay/Neuter Action Program (SNAP) Hi my name is Emmie and I am a 2yr old tortoiseshell Siamese X…do you know what that means? It means I am a princess!!! I am beautiful and everyone knows it as soon as they see my pretty blue eyes. I am currently in foster care with children, cats, and dogs. Although I get along with all my loyal servants I still need a home of my own. Can I live at your castle? Hi my name is Lizzy. I am 1yr old, very beautiful and have the most amazing personality. I spend my days following the five year old girl around and then we snuggle all night long. She carries me everywhere and I adore her. I also share my foster home with other pets and we are one big happy family…but I still need a family of my own.

My name is Garth...BIG Garth that is. I am about 3yrs old and looking for a home who will appreciate a big cat who will be their best buddy for life. I was a rescue from the pound so not many details are known about my past. What is known is that I am loveable and really deserve a good home. Come visit, you’ll love me…I promise!

Hi, my name is Gracie and I am 7yrs young! I have fabulous manners, love to play outside with the other dogs, walk well on a leash and sleep well in my kennel each night. They are not sure of my breed (I’m kind of a like a black Miniature American Eskimo), but they do know I’m sweet as pie.

Hi my name is Jake. I am 2.5yrs old and ready to come live with you. I am a very affectionate cat who loves to cuddle, but the best part is that although playful, I am past all the kitten issues. I love all people, other cats & dogs…big & small I love them all!

Hi my name is Ruby and I am a super sweet Blood Hound X around 7mths old. I love everyone, but as with all teenagers I need some help with my manners and training. I am smart, try hard and really want to please so I am sure to learn fast and I know I will love you forever.

Hi there, my name is Fritz. I am a 10 month old long coat neutered male Chihuahua. I am almost all white & as you can see I am absolutely gorgeous. I can be a little timid when I first meet people, but I warm up very fast. I am waiting for my forever family to come for me...I will be your friend for life.

Hi, we are 3 siblings that were rescued together and our foster family just loves us to pieces. We love playing with the children here but it’s really time to find our own families. We are about 2mths old and can’t wait to be discovered by our new homes.

www.spayneuteractionprogram.ca ~ (780) 968-0025

Chinook Winds Greyhound Rescue Foundation My name is Barbie. I’m not even 8yrs old yet, but I’ve had a busy life. First I was a racer and then I went back to the farm to have puppies. I am very gentle, affectionate and I just love being with people. My foster Mom says that I’m such a good girl, I do try hard to please her. All I really want is my very own forever family -as long as they don’t have any pesky cats (other dogs or kids would be ok)! I’d be so grateful for a peaceful home where the people love me and call me their own.

Hi! My name is Sandy and I recently retired as a racing greyhound from Wisconsin. You Canadians are so nice, I haven’t met anyone here who hasn’t become a friend. I love going for walks because people always pet me and some even give me cookies. I love cookies! I also love squeaky toys; I like to toss them high in the air before pouncing on them and giving them a big shake. I get along well with other dogs and cats are OK too. I am 6yrs old but people say I play like a puppy.

www.chinookwindsgreyhounds.org ~ (780) 988-9876 6

pet rescue magazine

May 2009

local stories...local people...local pets

Northern Alberta Society for Animal Protection (NASAP) Hullo everybody my name is Charlee! I am a loving and energetic boy who enjoys cuddling. I am nearly 1yr old, weigh about 30lbs and I’m good around other dogs, cats and children. I’m also crate and house trained. I’m a happy bouncy boy (my nickname is Tigger!) and I need an owner who will show me leadership and love me forever.

Ranger here! I am a Shepherd/Husky X and my tail is constantly wagging! I love people and get along with the resident dogs and cat in my foster home. I do shed but that’s a small price to pay for a great dog like me (my foster Mom told me to say that!). I don’t bark much and I am already crate and house trained. I’m smart, walk nicely on a leash, travel well and I’m eager to please. Hi, my name is Copper and I am a handsome 2yr old Coonhound X. I’m house trained and I know all my basic commands (with great recall!). I’m good natured, affectionate, and although fascinated by the cats I haven’t tried to hurt them. I’m best suited to a home with older children that can also provide me with the daily exercise I need.

Hey everyone, Lucas here. I’m a smart and well behaved Labrador Retriever. I’m playful and energetic like any puppy of six months, and I know all my basic commands. I am good around other dogs, cats and small children. I’m also house and crate trained. I don’t like to say I’m perfect, but lots of the two leggers say I’m pretty close!

I’m Maggie. I am a young mother and my kittens are now weaned and most have been adopted. I am extremely affectionate and quiet. I love to play with toys and adore being adored! I don’t care for the company of other cats or dogs, so I’m looking for a home where I can be your one and only!

My name is Cinder and I’m one of Maggie’s kittens. I am now 6mths old and really hoping that my forever home will find me soon! I am a very affectionate and talkative kitty who loves to get attention and give kisses. Please contact NASAP about me!

Cheers! My name is David and I have been living homeless in South Edmonton for approximately 2yrs. A kind neighbor was feeding me until a NASAP volunteer rescued and took me in. I’m a very friendly fellow who loves lots of cuddles and even cat-friendly canines. I’m a healthy, 3-5yr old boy and I’m ready for my brand new forever home!

Hello there! My name is Stanley and I came in with an injured leg. My leg has now completely healed and I am doing wonderfully in foster care. I like to be in the middle of all the action as I am very sociable and playful with people. I would prefer a home where I can be the only pampered pet (I can be a bit bossy with other kitties). I am very ready to find a new indoor-only home and loving family.

www.nasap.ca ~ (780) 922-0250

local stories...local people...local pets

pet rescue magazine

May 2009

Step intoMy Brenda Burns-Boggs Dayton, Ohio

or over ten years I had served as a foster mother to neglected, abused and abandoned Chihuahuas. I cannot count the number of times Laura, the coordinator, of our regional Chihuahua Rescue and Transport Organization called me describing some little Chihuahua who needed immediate care. Some had been injured or starved or just were no longer wanted by their owner. So they came to Laura and she, in turn, contacted one of the volunteer foster mothers and asked them to take on one more helpless little dog. Our assignment was to care for the dog, do everything we could to bring it up to the best possible health and prepare it to then be placed in an adoptive home. Each little one touched my heart and my life – all fifty of them. But in March of 2003 I got a call from Laura that would change my life. She asked me to take in a Chihuahua named Lopez. She explained that a family had purchased the dog for their eleven-year-old daughter who had lost interest in the dog as she approached her teen years. The result was that four-year-old Lopez was left alone, crying constantly for the girl’s companionship. He felt totally abandoned. I agreed to meet Laura on a Saturday morning after Lopez had been altered. When my husband and I arrived at the appointed meeting spot, Laura handed me Lopez’s crate and cautioned, “Be careful. Do not reach in the crate to take him out. My vet says this is the meanest Chihuahua she has ever seen. I am so sorry,” she quickly apologized. “I did not know he had this problem.” I was used to dealing with snarling dogs. I was sure I could handle little Lopez. We took the little fellow home, placed his crate in my gated kitchen, opened the door and waited for him to come out of the crate. Cautiously, a little brown Chihuahua stepped out of the crate – and into my heart. The minute I saw this bundle of energy I was intrigued by his small size and the look of defiance – and fear – that I saw in his eyes. He kept his distance from me and, heeding Laura’s warning, I did not reach for him or even extend the back of my hand. I sat on the kitchen floor and spoke softly to him and hoped that my voice would reassure him that he was in a safe place. Since I lived in a condo at the time, it was necessary to walk my dogs around the court numerous times during the day – both for exercise and to allow them adequate potty breaks. What to do about Lopez? How would he handle taking a walk with me? As I tried to ease the hook of the leash into his collar he began to bark and snap at me so I had to try something else. Finally, after several attempts, I went into the garage and got the heaviest leather gardening gloves I could find. Wearing them, I was able to slip the “O” ring on his collar. Lopez willingly went out the door and we began to walk around the common area. He explored the grassy areas and took special interest in finding the largest leaf on the ground to pee on. In fact, the bigger the leaf, the better. As we walked I watched him limp – holding up first one 8

pet rescue magazine

May 2009

heart

hind leg and then the other. Oh, no, I thought – luxating patellas. This is a weakness common to Chihuahuas that usually requires them to have surgery to correct muscles and tendons in their hind legs. We returned from the walk and after several attempts I managed to get the leash off his collar. Each time I tried to remove the leash he snapped at my fingers and let me know that his estimation of any appendage was fair game. I said a prayer of thanks that I had such thick gloves. I contacted Laura and asked if Lopez had been evaluated for luxating patellas. She replied, “Are you kidding! No one could get close enough to him to examine him for that.” When I told her of my findings she warned me not to get too fond of him since the Board would probably not approve the cost of surgery for him because he was considered unadoptable because of the biting. Too late, my heart said. This little guy already has made paw prints on my heart - even if he has gnawed at my fingers. I asked Laura to give me some time to see I could turn the little guy around. She told me she would give 10 to 14 days since that was the time period needed before his sutures were to be removed. “Okay, Lopez,” I said. “You and I have about two weeks to make some progress and we had better get started.” Luckily my husband was going out of town for two weeks and that would give me a lot of time to devote to winning Lopez over. I just had to find the key to unlock his heart. By chance, after he tried to nip at me I told him ‘No’, picked him up with a big towel and placed him in a crate I kept in the kitchen. I covered the crate with the towel and he began to whimper, then chatter and then howl the most forlorn cry I had ever heard. Aha, Lopez suffered from separation anxiety. Even though he had tried to bite me, it distressed him when he could not see me. Maybe that was the answer, I thought. I left him in the covered crate for just one minute and then uncovered it and let him out. As I walked away, he nipped at my heels. I again picked him up with the towel, told him “No”, placed him in the crate and covered it with the towel. Same reaction from Lopez. The whimpering, the crying, the howling. I had found his Achilles heel. After several repeats of the same actions from both of us, he finally came out of the crate and did not nip at me. “Good job, Lopez!” I told him and he stepped further into my heart. continued on page 12

local stories...local people...local pets

Edmonton Humane Society (EHS)

Humane Animal Rescue Team (hart)

If you’re looking for a fun-loving yet affectionate cat, then I’m the one for you. Hi, I’m Emerald, a 2yr old girl who has been at the EHS since the beginning of January! Many people overlook black cats, without realizing that they are extremely adorable, and volunteers at the shelter say that I certainly am! I came into the shelter with my litter of kittens and they have all been adopted, so now I am waiting patiently for my chance to come.

I am a 7yr old Shepherd/ Keeshond X full of life and love. My name is Apollo and I’m ready to play some fetch! I love being close to people and get along with everyone! I am really patient with little ones –both human and canine. My old family said they no longer had the time or space for me, but I’m staying positive because I know my new family will discover me soon!!! I am an obedient boy and adjust well to new situations.

Hi, I’m Cooter and I’ve been at the EHS since the beginning of March. I am a 4yr old Catahoula X. I’m very playful but was not very well socialized in the past. I have recently learned how to sit, shake-apaw, and lie down. I love to be scratched behind the ears and will thank you with big kisses! I’m curious but I also love to just sit and look instead of getting into everything! Give me a chance to be a part of your family, and I’ll only give you loads of love in return.

www.humaneanimalrescueteam.ca

Hi, I’m Zoe and I really deserve a loving home. My new litter of kittens and I were abandoned but luckily someone found and brought us to the EHS. We went right into foster care until all my kittens were old enough to be adopted. They have all found new homes, but not me. I’m waiting patiently for that special family. I am 3yrs old and extremely sweet. I love to cuddle on people’s laps where I snuggle down and purr. I also give sweet kisses. Please consider me if you are looking for a sweet, loving cat. www.edmontonhumanesociety.com

Adoption Line (780) 491-3500 local stories...local people...local pets

(780) 455-4278

My name is Mouse and I love to play fetch, even by myself! I will throw the toy, bring it back to the start and throw it again. All you have to do is smile! I am a 3.5yr Collie/Shep X. I was rescued as a shy little baby and I am looking for a calm environment (probably with no small children) because I am still fairly timid. When there’s lots of commotion, I like to go to my safe little kennel. I really love being around my people –the closer the better– and I get along great with dogs. I do have some food allergies, so I eat a limited ingredient food. I will force you to have fresh vegetables in the house cuz that’s what I eat for treats. See…I’ll be a good influence on you!!

Hinton & District SPCA Yes… I am still here. My name is Zyra and all of my friends get adopted but here I still sit. I am a 1yr old Coonhound/ Shepherd X. I am good on leash, enjoy running in the park with my friends and can hardly wait until my new family discovers me. I know you will be worth the wait!!!

Why am I still here? I am cute as can be and I have a lot of love to offer! I am a 4yr old Miniature American Eskimo/Jack Russell X named Teka. I love going for car rides and exploring every inch of the car. I am not good with small children, especially boys as they scare me.

I’m adorable! I am a 1yr old dapper little guy named Charley (well kind of not so little as I am a Great Pyrenees X). I am a total love bug and enjoy car rides and going for runs with Zyra. We could romp and run for hours!

Where’s the ball? Where’s the ball? I am a sweet little Whippet X named Chase. I am one of those girls who just loves to play and I simply adore my toys. I am not real keen on other female dogs and I can be possessive of my property and family…the two things I value most! I would love a very active and loving family.

I am an older and extremely sweet Coonhound X named Flower. I am a little round, but having a few litters of puppies will do that to a girl! I am working on the weight…maybe we could go for walks and get fit together! I also love kids and get along well with other dogs.

www.hintonspca.com ~ (780) 865-2800 pet rescue magazine

May 2009

Forget Me Not Cat Sanctuary Hi there! My name is Felix and I am looking forward to having my own home. I am about 2yrs old and I was surrendered to an animal hospital with an injured leg. The kind vet fixed up my leg and sent me to the sanctuary to get better. My coat is silver gray and the girls here think I’m quite striking. I am a very friendly guy who loves affection and a warm lap to curl up in. Could that be yours?

Hi. My name is Murphy and I am a very handsome dude. I am about 2yrs old and while I tolerate the other cats at my foster Mom’s, I would rather be by myself or with only one other cat. I am so affectionate and love to snuggle in your lap and watch TV or be brushed. I am a very calm and laid back kinda guy. I’m hard not to love!!!

I’m Maggie and I’m from a litter of the best behaved kittens that you ever did meet. We are all looking for forever homes, and I’d really like to be adopted with my brother Whiskers. We are just like book-ends! I am a dainty little girl and new situations leave me a little timid at first, but given a chance to get to know and trust you I become my little 9mth old affectionate self.

My name is Dixie and I am about 3yrs old. I like people’s company and being petted but I’m not much of a cuddler. I am very quiet but do still have a playful streak in me. I need to be the only cat in my new home. Maybe it could be yours?

Hi. My name is Hailey. I am Casper’s sister and a short hair grey and white girl. There are actually 5 of us looking for our forever homes. I am sooo sweet and love being cuddled. I am very quiet and laid back and would do best in a quiet home. Do you have one for me?

My name is Casper. I am a male, about 6mths old with short hair. I am a bit shy at first but once I get to know you I am very loving and affectionate. I love belly rubs and will follow you around and flop at your feet to get one. I am laid back and get along fine with others cats. I would make a great addition to your family.

www.forgetmenotcats.com ~ (780) 700-5525 Safe Haven Animal Rescue Edmonton Society (SHARES) They named me 8-Ball. I am litter trained, love affection and adore eating. I am great with other female cats but seem to only tolerate the boys. I have also been good with the small resident Maltese dog. I really love people and can hardly wait to have my own home.

My name is Austin and I came from the pound very sad and very skinny. I am good with other dogs and although I seem a little shy now I am starting to come out of my shell. I am great in the car and catching on to the whole leash concept well.

I came from the pound and they call me Sweet Pea. I am a very loving, calm girl who gets along well with other dogs and seems ok with the resident cat. I am potty trained, quiet, well behaved and wake my people up with kisses every morning. I am looking for a family who will love me forever.

My name is Gizmo and I’ve got personality plus. I am good with other dogs and seem to be ok with cats. People say I am quiet, well behaved and love to cuddle and play. I have no fear of big dogs (it’s a Terrier thing -all guts!) and I am around 1-2yrs old. I am also very good in the crate.

My name is Jade and I am a lovely girl looking for a permanent home. I am very easy going and good with other cats and dogs…I even leave the budgies alone! I am 1-2yrs old, litter trained and really hoping my turn for a new home comes soon!

(780) 707-5753 10

pet rescue magazine

May 2009

local stories...local people...local pets

Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS) Howdy! My name is Tanner and the word is that I am just full of love! I am a little shy with people at first but warm up quickly once I know you’re one of the good guys. I weigh around 60lbs and I’m pretty sure I am done growing. I am very anxious to bond and can hardly wait to find a family I can call my own. Give A Dog A Spot: Thank you to the Siebert family

My name is Owen and I am super cool! I had a skin condition that I have been on medication for and should be just fine very soon. I am a great little puppy. I love lots of things but my favorite things are food, playing and getting cuddles. I still have some growing to do but that just means there will more of me to love!

My name is Farrah and I came in with my 2 little pups Kate and Jacklyn. I am all white and there is no doubt I am a little angel! I’m looking a little rough right now but my foster mom is going to have me all pretty in no time and I can’t wait to show you how gorgeous I am.

My name is Sheena and I came with Charlotte, Janis, & Joplin. We are adorable little Shepherd crosses. I am pretty shy still but I’m sure I will come out of my shell very soon and shine like the little star I am! I am around 4-5mths old. Give A Dog A Spot: Thinking of you on your birthday Grandma

Margaret Jean Braaten May 18, 1915 - Jan 24, 2009 We miss you so much

My name is Kate. I came with my sister Jacklyn and mother Farrah. We are so lucky to have such a devoted mother. We are new around here so please check in at the website for updated information.

Yep -that’s right we are all Angels. My foster dad thinks so anyway! I am new here so I haven’t shown my true self yet but my foster family will keep you updated on the SCARS site.

www.scarscare.org ~ (780) 466-SCAR Parkland Animal K-9 Society (PAKS) How precious are we! We are Zachary and July, two of the sweetest little tikes that you will ever lay your eyes on. We were found in the middle of the road in a snow storm and are lucky to be alive. We are small Shepherd X puppies around 6wks old.

I am in desperate need of a new home. I have been through more than anyone will ever know. I am a 5-7yr old Collie X named Grizzly. Ideally my perfect family will let me grow old on the floor by their bed! I can see us together now; I am lying at your feet as you sip your morning coffee, on the porch, as the sun comes up. We need each other please find me soon!!!

Snoopp Dogg, Basset Hound X guy here! I am a 10mth old male low rider who loves attention. I love my people and bay when they leave me (not for long though), I am great with kids and cats, and the other pooches and I seem to be very easy going. Please call Prairie Animal Rescue at 780-536-3868.

I am the Pretty Princess Litty! Everybody tells me I am a great dog and a perfect lady. I am good in the crate, good with kids and cats and just about good with everything. I am a young girl around 2yrs old and will be ready for adoption in early May.

www.pak-9.com ~ (780) 222-PAK9 (7259) local stories...local people...local pets

pet rescue magazine

May 2009

Step Into My Heart - continued from page 8 The trip to the vet’s office for suture removal was a disaster. I knew he would not do well so I called my vet and asked for some tranquilizers, hoping that would calm him down enough to get the sutures out. It wasn’t. After a terrible wrestling match that involved me, the vet tech and the vet we got the sutures out and the vet looked at my bleeding fingers and said, “You saved him for this?” Needless to say, I changed vets. I would like to say that after that Lopez made a quick turn around but Lopez had different ideas. Eventually he would allow me to leash and unleash him to take him for a walk but many times if his collar wasn’t in the right position and I had to reach to turn it so I could hook the loop he would turn and try to nip me. It took a long time before I could trust that he would not try to bite me if he felt threatened by my actions. Sometime during that two-week period that we were trying to get acquainted and waiting for the dreaded suture removal, Lopez began jumping up on my lap. The first time he did it I was so startled by his actions that I was unsure what to do. It didn’t matter because by the time it registered with me that he was in my lap he had jumped back down and nervously looked at me to see my reaction. I told him he was a good boy and waited to see what he would do then. He repeated this action several times and each time would nervously shift his weight back and forth and then jump down again. I dared not breathe. My heart was pounding because I could tell he really wanted to be in my lap but the anxiety he was experiencing was heart-wrenching to watch. This went on for several days each time I sat in my favorite rocking chair and each time I would talk softly to him, not daring to touch him. After about a week he jumped into my lap and nervously laid down. He stayed only a few seconds, but the look in his eye after he jumped down was slightly different than before. It was almost as if I could see him breathe and relax a bit more each time he repeated his action. Finally one day he lay across my legs, heaved a huge sigh, put his head down on his little paws and stayed for a bit. That day he took a huge step and had not been rejected or hurt and from that point on whenever I sat in that chair Lopez was in my lap. Even though he became comfortable in my lap, touching him was another story. In the beginning I had to make sure that he was looking straight at me and as I talked softly I would slowly move one hand above his head and very gingerly scratch just the very tiptop of his head between his ears, being careful not to touch his ears. If I touched his ears or anywhere else on his body he immediately jerked his head around with teeth bared and was ready to snap. I began to worry that Lopez would never correct this behavior enough to become adoptable. Each day was a very small triumph for Lopez and me. The first time he let me pick him up my heart soared. Oh, I know it was a cautious pickup, never with two hands, always reaching from the side slowly with one hand and scooping him up under his belly and then bringing him up to my side. But he began to let me pick him up, carry him and then sit down and place him on my lap. And with every success his paws put their indelible prints all across my heart. Lopez and I became a team and I eagerly wrote to my coordinator of each success, hoping that he would become trusting enough to be placed on our adoption list. After about six months Laura told me that she and the Board decided that Lopez had progressed sufficiently to have his luxating patellas repaired and we made arrangements for me to drop him off at the surgeon in Cincinnati. He would stay two days and then I would pick him up for his eight-week recovery period. When I arrived at the surgeon’s office to get Lopez, the vet’s assistant came into the lobby and announced that Lopez was ready to go home but they would prefer that I come back and get him out of his cage. It seems that Lopez had displayed his usual distrust of strangers and they’d had great difficulty handling him. I walked into the post-surgical area, approached his cage and said, “Hi, Baby.” Lopez walked to the front of the cage on his front two paws since both of his knees had been repaired – and he wagged his tail. The technicians watched in amazement as I opened the door and gently scooped him up into my arms (one-handed, of course) and he snuggled 12

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into my arms. “How did you do that?” they all asked. “With lots of practice!” I said in return. I placed Lopez in his crate and we began the trek home. For the next few months Lopez’s biography and history appeared on our Chihuahua rescue web site and his temperament and special needs were spelled out as explicitly as we could with hopes that he could find an adoptive home. The only responses we got were from families who had small children and they assured us that the children loved dogs. Were they not reading the part about the fear biting? Did they not understand that this Chihuahua could never be placed in a home with small children? My husband, Wayne, and I talked of this many times and one day I said, “I am so worried. We do not seem to be finding the right people to adopt Lopez.” Wayne looked at me and smiled and said, “Well, if it were up to me I would just keep him.” “Really?” I responded. “You know that would mean we would have to move. We cannot have three dogs in this condo.” “Well,” my husband replied, “I guess we’d better start looking for a house.” With that said, we notified Laura that we were adopting Lopez and we began immediately to look for a house that would accommodate our little Chihuahua family – and us, of course. Within a short time we found a home that was perfect for our little family – a one-level ranch house with a beautiful back yard that we could fence in and let our little guys roam at will. In the beginning we joked about it being Lopez’s house but as soon as I saw him lying in the middle of the sunny backyard surveying his new territory my heart knew that it was indeed Lopez’s house. He reveled in the spacious backyard and explored it inch by inch and then would lie down in the middle of the yard, close his eyes and bask in the warm rays of the sun and stay there for hours at a time. In the summer his dark brown coat would become somewhat bleached on the tips as he acquired his “summer tan”. In the winter he would lie in my lap by the fireplace in the evening or sit on my shoulder like a parrot would if another dog had the audacity to want to occupy my lap. Lopez never became comfortable with many people. When visitors came, my first remark was, “Please don’t try to touch the little brown one, he will bite.” If they would do as I asked, eventually Lopez would approach them and sometimes allow them to scratch his head but never pick him up. He came to love and trust my husband, my daughter and my son and he would get so excited when they came to visit. He would bark his special little gruff bark that would lift his front feet off the floor and he would allow my daughter to play “Got your nose” – something I was never allowed to do. Lopez and I played “Chase me” around the dining room table and we played with his special ball every day with enthusiasm, we became inseparable. He slept in the crook of my arm every night and sometimes he would crawl up on my pillow in the middle of the night and flop down right next to my head hard enough to wake me but I would drift off to sleep again reveling in the great – and many times – small accomplishments we had made together. Lopez never learned to trust others. A trip to the vet’s office was a major undertaking but fortunately I found a vet who was most understanding of Lopez’s nature. Since he would never allow anyone to examine him it became necessary for him to be anesthetized for his annual exams and dental work. My vet allowed me to place him in the box normally reserved for cats and stay with him as they worked on him so I would be there when he woke up. I knew that if Lopez ever got to the point that he needed major health management we would be in trouble because as much as he trusted me, he would not allow me to give him medication, clean his ears or trim his nails. In the Autumn of 2008 I began to see a decline in Lopez’s activity and his zest for life began to ebb. Tests by two vets indicated that he was suffering from an inflammatory bowel disease which prohibits absorption of protein by the intestines. We began a regiment of medication which Lopez would take if I local stories...local people...local pets

encased them in peanut butter and he would lick them off my finger. For a while he seemed to rally but in March of 2009, almost exactly seven years from the day he came into my life, Lopez refused to eat and two days later his heart began to fail. We rushed him to an emergency clinic one evening when it was apparent he was having breathing difficulties. As I entered the clinic doors the technician met me at the door and reach for him as I explained he was having trouble breathing. I warned, “He is a biter.” But as she took him from my arms he never seemed to notice. As I waited for the vet to come into the examining room I knew that Lopez and I had made our last journey together. When the vet entered the room and began explaining his findings and what they had done thus far, I asked, “Is he allowing you to work on him?” “Oh, yes,” the vet replied. My heart sank because I knew that Lopez was leaving me if he allowed a stranger to touch him. I asked to see him and as I watched him struggle for every breath I knew he was telling me goodbye. I kissed his head, told him I loved him and asked him to step into my heart where he would no longer struggle to breathe, worry about being hurt and now he would always be loved. He died in my arms on March 12, 2009. That night for the first time in seven years I went to bed with no little companion in the crook of my arm and no bump in the night against my head. People have asked me why we took in such a difficult little dog. He was so unpredictable, so mistrusting, so hard to love. My husband and I just smile when we hear those comments. Because of Lopez we have a home that has been host to many foster dogs that we could not have helped if we had continued to live in a condo. We have hosted an annual Chi-esta – a summer picnic for our fellow Chihuahua rescuers and adoptive parents. The Chi-esta has been held in Lopez’s backyard for five years and we have met hundred of friends who believe as we do that dogs that have been abandoned, abused and neglected deserve a second, better chance to live out their lives with humans who love and respect them. Wayne and I love the outdoors and every summer we eat all of our meals on our patio and watch all our little wards enjoy Lopez’s yard and the flowers and vegetables that we grow there are a testament to his strong will and personality. As I look out at his favorite spot in the yard I smile because I can almost see his spirit laying in the sunlight, his eyes closed and his heart at peace. Why indeed would I take in such a little guy? Through fostering and then adopting Lopez I learned to develop a great deal of patience in dealing with ‘hurt souls’ – both two and four legged – a trait that was not always one of my best. But most of all I enjoyed an unpredictable, funny, loving little guy who was sometimes distant, sometimes anti-social, sometimes exasperating but one who has left indelible footprints on my heart. Would I do it again? You betcha! Every good moment and every triumph with Lopez was well worth every sore finger I got from his nips. prm

He was broken when I got him but in the end we both were made whole.

Edmonton Reptile & Amphibian Society (ERAS) Our names are Liz and Lizzy and we are about 45yrs old. We are brother and sister and were given up because our boy grew up and kept forgetting to take care of us. His family knew it was best to surrender us into ERAS care. We are a little underweight but have great appetites and are otherwise healthy.

This is a true account of Brenda’s challenge, we’d like to thank her for sharing her story about life with Lopez.

Pamela Clark, RMT, SAMT Member of IAAMB

14228-95 Avenue

I am a fully grown Ball Python that was found outside, in my fish tank, by a nice gentleman who took me in and called ERAS for help. My history is not known because I was a “Stray”. If you are interested in me please call ERAS.

Edmonton AB

www.infinitepawsibilities.com www.infinitepawsibilities.co ttepawsibili tepawsibilit w iit es.c es.com co om

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www.edmontonreptiles.com (780) 429-0934 pet rescue magazine

May 2009

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Cosmo here! I don’t have a lot of time to talk about myself because I am a really busy guy. I am a 1yr old Poodle X. I am a very unique and friendly boy with an outgoing personality. I love receiving attention and will bounce right into your arms and give you the biggest cuddle ever –but it can’t last too long cause I have things to do and people to meet!

Hi, my name is Trigger. I am a young Border Collie X that is one handsome devil. I would be a great dog for a family that could give me a “job” to do. I love playing with the agility equipment and perhaps would do great at herding. I am looking forward to having a new family soon, so that they can teach me the ropes as I hit adolescence.

Hi, I am a Shepherd X and I’m roughly 1yr old. I am looking for a wonderful family that is willing to take me on walks. I need a job to do…even if that is just working on my obedience. Oh my…I forgot to give you my name; I am Cleopatra just like the beautiful and charismatic queen of Egypt.

My name is Molly and I am a Lab X around 2yrs old. I am currently living in foster care with three children and doing fantastic. I would make a great outside or inside family member. My foster Mom thinks I might know some agility. I am great with other animals; my best friend is a cat!

Hello, my name is Theodore (Theo for short) and I am roughly 8mths old. My foster family thinks I am a Terrier X. I am pretty shy until you get to know me and then I am full of love and cuddles. My foster home is currently teaching me the basics on potty training.

I am a new addition to the PAWS family named Tater. I have only been here a few days so they don’t know a lot about me yet. I am a Miniature Pinscher who is between 1-3yrs old. Words cannot explain how adorable I truly am.

My name changed from “Poco” to “Pogo” because I jump like a pogo stick! I am a 2yr old Poodle. I have no issues with cats and get along great with people and doggie friends. I need a family willing to hug and kiss me LOTS, and that will go back to basic training with me. PS. I need a little help with my house training but I’m smart and learn fast!!!

I’m Shasta and they think I am a Boxer/Lab X. I am not yet 1yr old and I am awesome with other dogs, great with cats, and even have some experience playing with children. I am very shy when I first meet people and need a little reassurance. I am full of snuggles, love belly rubs, and I’m slowly learning how to play fetch (I need to master bringing it back yet).

(780) 471-2275 14

pet rescue magazine

May 2009

local stories...local people...local pets

Horoscopes

Grande Prairie SPCA Hello my name is Charlie and I am around 2yrs old. I am the cutest young man around. I have a beautiful white coat that I keep very clean…well as clean as boys do! I have been waiting for my new home to find me since mid February. I do hope my turn comes soon!

Hey there, my name is Chico and I am a 2-3yrs old. I am Retriever X and have been here since mid March. I’m so special and want a home and family to love me desparately. I do hope one day soon someone will come to see me and take me home forever!

“If I could turn back time, if I could find my way...” …oh hi! I’m just practicing for my next big gig. My name is Cher and I am a gorgeous 34yr old beauty with long hair. I am a brown Tabby (all natural...of course!). Do you believe in love?

Hey there! My name is Hewie. I am about 2yrs old, very friendly and I like to play lots! I have a great big heart and can’t wait for you to visit me soon!

Hi! My name is Daphne and I am about 1yr old. I lovelovelove to run and play! I am a Collie X with possibly a little Lab! I really enjoy going for walks, it’s always more fun when you have a buddy to walk with. I love it when people come to say hi to me cause I just can’t contain myself...oh wait here comes someone right now...yippee!

It’s me Jade! I know you have been waiting to hear from me in like for-ev! I am 1-3yrs old which means I am still a young lady. I am the best breed you could find -a Collie X with ‘somethin’ … It’s like a secret shhhh don’t tell! BTW I am just chilling here at the GSPCA waiting’ for my next BFF to come adopt me.

Whoa! Watch out! Crash is coming through! I am 1yr old and neutered (but I still like girls as friends!). I am possibly a Shepherd X and I am pretty unique because I don’t have a tail -not even a stump. Must be that X thing eh? Anyways, I better run now…I am looking for someone to crash into. Maybe they’ll give me a home!

My name is Meredith and I am 3yrs old. I am just sitting here wondering when I will find my McDreamy or McSteamy. As long as the sun keeps rising and the moon keeps shining, I will know there is a forever home for me! When you wish upon a star high above, dreams really do come true.

www.gpspca.com ~ (780) 538-4030 local stories...local people...local pets

What’s In The Stars For Your Pets This Month? Aries: March 21 - April 19 The cat in your life is having a rough month. If provoked she may hold a grudge, especially if you make a gobstopper chew toy out of her toy mouse again. Try to ignore her toys and respect her space. Taurus: April 20 - May 20 Careful not to get caught up in the social scene again, you’ll be back to running with the pack. We all need to feel valuable and loved but sometimes we can all get way too concerned about being the biggest toad in the puddle. Gemini: May 21 - June 20 Right smack in the middle! That’s where many Geminis may find themselves this month. Stay neutral and do your best to understand all sides... in essence you must run with the hare as well as hunt with the hounds. Cancer: June 21 - July 22 Sometimes it feels so good to not move forward that we forget and stop progressing altogether! Be sure to push your comfort zone a little this month or you may miss an important opportunity. Leo: July 23 - August 22 Orange is a lucky color for you this month Leo! However before reaching for lotto tickets, you may want to cover your basics and invest in some orange safety reflector collars, tags or leash for all of your evening romps. Virgo: August 23 - September 22 There is so much family activity going on for Virgos this month you can expect emotions to soar. Don’t despair, not all emotions are bad after all! Keep your head clear of outside chatter and you will stay cool as a cat. Libra: September 23 - October 22 Libra pets are known to be gentle when it comes to children and other pets but everyone has limits. Try to be prepared (especially when your two leggers are not!) as your limits may be unjustly challenged by house guests. Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 With Mothers day arriving on the 10th you must not cause any strife in the house...or out of the house for that matter! This means no more peeing outside the litter box, chewing up eye glasses or ‘borrowing’ shiny objects. Sagittarius: November 22 - December 21 Some may assume, because of your gentle and kind nature, that you can not stand up for yourself. If you are known as a lamb you must step up this month and show some of your fire, passion and strength. Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 This is a great month for Capricorns to catch up and spend time with friends and family. Share your gentle and courteous manner...who knows maybe some of it will rub off! Aquarius: January 20 - February 18 Spring is full of hope for the future! Do your best to maintain an upbeat attitude and keep plugging away to get projects finished. Life’s pressures are sure to let up soon allowing you time to really get back on track. Pisces: February 19- March 20 Finances may be tighter than usual this month so be sure not to count your chickens before they are hatched! Remember that a sure thing is never actually a sure thing until delivery!

pet rescue magazine

May 2009

In the March issue of Pet Rescue Magazine, we featured a story about a dog that had been tied for so long that the rope noose had literally eaten its way into his neck and was slowly killing him. The RCMP were called to shoot the dog. However, the kind officer took pity on him and called PARS (Prairie Animal Rescue)....the rest is history. The picture above is Guiness at his rescue, below is Guiness with his update. Enjoy! Hello, Guiness here. I‛m not sure where to begin, how much my life has changed in the last 3 months! A dog could not ask for a better life. Did you know that food appears in your bowl twice a day and that the water bowl is never empty? I didn‛t know that until now. I also didn‛t know that people and dogs get together and walk, free of any leashes in the beautiful river valley of Edmonton. Everyone I meet calls me sweetie and mentions how calm I am. My new family consists of a mom and a dad. I also have kids too, called nieces and nephews, who come to visit me often. Wait until you hear where I sleep!!! I get my own couch and it even has my very own grandma knitted blanket for me to cuddle up in...and it‛s not outside either. My neck has healed up well from my injuries and I am now able to wear a cool collar that does not ever keep me tied up. Who would have thought that life could consist of sleeping, eating, drinking and running free with people who care for and love me? I never knew any of this stuff was possible until those heroes at Prairie Animal Rescue (PARS) and the kind RCMP officer saved me from a slow painful death. They knew how much happiness I could bring and clearly saw the value in my life being saved. Thank you to everyone for helping me find a good home. I now truly have a chance to live life to the fullest. Please rescue or foster an animal as they will be the most faithful and grateful pets you have ever owned! Be sure to stay tuned to Pet Rescue Magazine so you can be a hero too and rescue a wonderful pet like me. Thanks to Sharleen and Darin (Mom & Dad) for seeing the great potential in me and promising to love and value me forever. See you all in the river valley or next rescue get together! All my Luv and extra special gentle Guiness hugs, Guiness PS. Don‛t forget I have lots more friends at PARS ~ www.prairieanimalrescue.org

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