Have you ever wondered where you can take your pet and have some fun? Two weeks ago, I got together with Southern Images Photography to launch an online directory of pet-friendly establishments around the Savannah area. The first site launched features Tybee information, particularly reviews of the dog parks, two restaurants, and the RV park. The site is in its infancy and suggestions are welcome. Each establishment has been evaluated by a CPR rescued pet. Take a look around to see how you and your pup can enjoy a day on the island.
http://www.petfriendlytybee.com
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Cora's Big Day Out & Hope's Major Milestone
On Saturday, Cora and I met up with a friend of mine and his dog Jake, a purebreed Blue Heeler, to check out some pet-friendly places out on Tybee Island. This was Cora's first big outing, and her last for awhile as she was admitted to the vet's office this morning to start her heartworm treatment. What was amazing to me was to see just how much this dog had attached herself to me, her rescuer. At one point, I left Cora alone with my buddy and Jake in the small dog park while I ran back to the car to get something. Not even a minute later, Cora was right on my heels. We haven't figured out if she jumped the fence or ran under it (it's not secure at all), but as soon as I turned around she jumped up at me as if to say "Why did you leave me?" And the rest of the day, I made sure never to be out of her sight. But I found out just what a velcro dog she is when we went to dinner at The Crab Shack. I got up to wash my hands, maybe 10 feet from our table, still in eye sight, and be darned if she didn't come right after me, dragging my chair behind her! We finished the day with doggy ice cream at Sonic, and the little darling slept all the way home, sitting in my front seat with her paws stretched across the console on to my legs.
Over the last few weeks, I've been working with Hope to slowly get her used to other dogs. Having lived her life on a chain, she is very defensive when they come near her. A few days ago, she was out in the small yard with Hannah and seemed fine, not a single growl. Today after I got home and let all the dogs out for playtime, Hope ran to the door and started scratching to go out as well. Normally, she hangs out in the office with me, cuddled with her favorite stuffed animal. I was like a nervous mom watching her child go off on her first day of school. I opened the gate and let Hope out, nervous about what might happen, if the other dogs would be nice. She pranced all around the yard, jumped around the empty pool, over one of the dog houses, and behind each of the pens. She stayed out for about an hour, no incidents. I came back out to check on her and she was at the gate, waiting to come back in the house. She just found a place and curled up, ignoring the other dogs. I feel like we've hit a major milestone with her, and I couldn't be prouder!
It's watching dogs like Cora and Hope that remind me just what patience can do for a pet. Just giving a little of your time and love here and there really can change their lives.
Over the last few weeks, I've been working with Hope to slowly get her used to other dogs. Having lived her life on a chain, she is very defensive when they come near her. A few days ago, she was out in the small yard with Hannah and seemed fine, not a single growl. Today after I got home and let all the dogs out for playtime, Hope ran to the door and started scratching to go out as well. Normally, she hangs out in the office with me, cuddled with her favorite stuffed animal. I was like a nervous mom watching her child go off on her first day of school. I opened the gate and let Hope out, nervous about what might happen, if the other dogs would be nice. She pranced all around the yard, jumped around the empty pool, over one of the dog houses, and behind each of the pens. She stayed out for about an hour, no incidents. I came back out to check on her and she was at the gate, waiting to come back in the house. She just found a place and curled up, ignoring the other dogs. I feel like we've hit a major milestone with her, and I couldn't be prouder!
It's watching dogs like Cora and Hope that remind me just what patience can do for a pet. Just giving a little of your time and love here and there really can change their lives.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Special Needs Pups - My Martian Children
This afternoon, I caught a movie I hadn't seen before on HBO called "Martian Child." I'm a huge fan of John Cusack and have his autograph in my senior yearbook since our school was smack dab in the middle of the set for The Movie. Anyhow, I kept it on while I was working and found myself really relating to the whole plot.
Basically, Cusack's character decides to adopt a special child, Dennis, that has been abandoned by his parents. As his way of coping, Dennis tells everyone he is from Mars and that he is here just for a mission. He speaks his own language, has his own way of dressing and doing things, and doesn't socialize well with other children. Cusack grows to love Dennis despite everyone else telling him that Dennis may be too much for him and his sister even tries to convince him to give Dennis back. But Cusack stands firm and convinces Dennis of his love and unconditional understanding. It's pretty much the way I feel about our special needs pets.
Right now, I am fostering five special needs pets. It's like a science fair experiment as they never tell us up front what is wrong, we find out along the way. We just give what we have and hope for the best. Sometimes, they sit with us for a long time, waiting for someone else to come along that will see what we see, but in the world of animal adoption, it's not always easy for people to see past the superficial, which hurts me sometimes.
Those who see Hope today for the first time would never understand her transformation in the last two months. A dog, left abandoned on a chain, no one to care for her, had absolutely no reason to accept the kindness of a human without question. Yet as we cleaned her wound daily, left behind after the chain was removed, we found it hard to keep her still from the constant kisses she was giving. Today, her wound is completely healed and her fur has grown over most of the scars. She prances in and out of the house, happily taking jaunts around the yard then immediately back in for some good lap cuddling time. I could swear she smiles at us, thanking us every day for giving her a dry, clean place to stay, good nutrition, and constant praise for being the good girl no one ever noticed before. Now all that is left is for someone else to look in her eyes and see all the love and adventure she has to offer.
So here I sit, typing away, my little Martian child snoring with her favorite stuffed animal. She's safe and loved. I guess that makes it a pretty good day.
Basically, Cusack's character decides to adopt a special child, Dennis, that has been abandoned by his parents. As his way of coping, Dennis tells everyone he is from Mars and that he is here just for a mission. He speaks his own language, has his own way of dressing and doing things, and doesn't socialize well with other children. Cusack grows to love Dennis despite everyone else telling him that Dennis may be too much for him and his sister even tries to convince him to give Dennis back. But Cusack stands firm and convinces Dennis of his love and unconditional understanding. It's pretty much the way I feel about our special needs pets.
Right now, I am fostering five special needs pets. It's like a science fair experiment as they never tell us up front what is wrong, we find out along the way. We just give what we have and hope for the best. Sometimes, they sit with us for a long time, waiting for someone else to come along that will see what we see, but in the world of animal adoption, it's not always easy for people to see past the superficial, which hurts me sometimes.
Those who see Hope today for the first time would never understand her transformation in the last two months. A dog, left abandoned on a chain, no one to care for her, had absolutely no reason to accept the kindness of a human without question. Yet as we cleaned her wound daily, left behind after the chain was removed, we found it hard to keep her still from the constant kisses she was giving. Today, her wound is completely healed and her fur has grown over most of the scars. She prances in and out of the house, happily taking jaunts around the yard then immediately back in for some good lap cuddling time. I could swear she smiles at us, thanking us every day for giving her a dry, clean place to stay, good nutrition, and constant praise for being the good girl no one ever noticed before. Now all that is left is for someone else to look in her eyes and see all the love and adventure she has to offer.
So here I sit, typing away, my little Martian child snoring with her favorite stuffed animal. She's safe and loved. I guess that makes it a pretty good day.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Gas... Who Isn't Ticked?
Last night, I had two phone calls from people in SC urging me to fuel up. I needed to run to Wally world for posterboard anyhow, so I stopped and got gas. I think it was $3.53. I couldn't be glad enough that I did.
When I finally left the house this evening, it was $3.89 with cars five and six deep. I drove into town, passing the first Enmark by Savannah Mall... I couldn't believe it: $4.39. What in the world? What was even worse was as I got closer to my destination and found the El Cheapo on Montgomery Crossroad at $4.69. I think their sign should be shot down.
It's been hard enough on me making ends meet month to month. I even work a part-time job on the weekends to make up for the lack in my regular paycheck. But now, I'm actually losing money trying to go to work (let's remember that I do NOT get paid for doing the rescue; it is all volunteer). I had already been doing well with conserving my driving this summer to just what is necessary, no longer taking joy rides down to Barnes and Noble for a book and frappucino.
We are participating in a big event tomorrow, GreenFest, and now I worry the attendance will be low due to people trying to stay home. I can't say I blame them, but when we have been struggling so much for donations this year, and adoptions have dwindled incredibly since spring, what kind of hope does that leave us to keep helping those in our programs? Just how many more hits can we keep taking?
But while I'm on the subject, I need to give a big thank you to a young lady who donated two hours of her cleaning service to help me out yesterday. Sarah Wright of The Right Touch Cleaning Service answered one of my prayers last week. I spent most all day in bed yesterday, covered by pillows, with a bad migraine. Sarah came and cleaned up after the dogs for me, something I had not had the time to do in the last two weeks. It was so nice to walk in the house tonight and smell cleanliness as opposed to dirty, wet dog. So, while we may be struggling, it is nice that others can take time out to help us in ways that mean so much. So thank you, Sarah, for being so giving.
When I finally left the house this evening, it was $3.89 with cars five and six deep. I drove into town, passing the first Enmark by Savannah Mall... I couldn't believe it: $4.39. What in the world? What was even worse was as I got closer to my destination and found the El Cheapo on Montgomery Crossroad at $4.69. I think their sign should be shot down.
It's been hard enough on me making ends meet month to month. I even work a part-time job on the weekends to make up for the lack in my regular paycheck. But now, I'm actually losing money trying to go to work (let's remember that I do NOT get paid for doing the rescue; it is all volunteer). I had already been doing well with conserving my driving this summer to just what is necessary, no longer taking joy rides down to Barnes and Noble for a book and frappucino.
We are participating in a big event tomorrow, GreenFest, and now I worry the attendance will be low due to people trying to stay home. I can't say I blame them, but when we have been struggling so much for donations this year, and adoptions have dwindled incredibly since spring, what kind of hope does that leave us to keep helping those in our programs? Just how many more hits can we keep taking?
But while I'm on the subject, I need to give a big thank you to a young lady who donated two hours of her cleaning service to help me out yesterday. Sarah Wright of The Right Touch Cleaning Service answered one of my prayers last week. I spent most all day in bed yesterday, covered by pillows, with a bad migraine. Sarah came and cleaned up after the dogs for me, something I had not had the time to do in the last two weeks. It was so nice to walk in the house tonight and smell cleanliness as opposed to dirty, wet dog. So, while we may be struggling, it is nice that others can take time out to help us in ways that mean so much. So thank you, Sarah, for being so giving.
Monday, September 8, 2008
What Else Would I Be Doing?
I had that question asked of me last week, and it's been on my mind.
I'll admit, on rough days, I think about how I could be living on the water and driving a convertible with all the money I would have saved from not running an animal rescue. My 8th grade yearbook says I wanted to be a dolphin trainer when I grew up, and I originally went to college to become a journalist. I fell into web design as a geek and under peer pressure from my honors classmates. I've always held Jimmy Buffett as my idol, and I dream of visiting all 50 states at least once. I'd like to go for my captain's license finally, finish getting a master's degree, teach again, and fall in love. I still toy with the idea of skydiving, though I think I might stick to just parasailing for now.
Last week, we moved my dining room furniture out to make more room for crates for our special needs pets that need confinement and rest. But during the middle of the night, when I awoke to the crying sounds of a new rescue having a rough night, I realized I would like to have someone to look after me like that. There have been times in the past when I have slept in my truck to have more peace than I was getting at home. It's not their fault, I know that, but there are times I just want to be a little selfish. I have gotten accustomed to being home early to give meds and last time outs for potty, which means my social life pretty much ends by 9 pm. Thus my Internet addiction, what would I do without MySpace and Facebook?
I know this is where I'm supposed to be for now. Hope is sleeping snuggly in her crate with her two stuffed animals nestled beneath her, never to have to be chained again. Little Ike is sleeping peacefully in a dry, soft, comfy bed with a full tummy, probably the first he's known in many years. Herbie is no longer coughing, Lady is no longer scratching at her matted fur, Cora is no longer dodging traffic, Kuma no longer has to be a mom, and Junior, well, he's not happy being in a crate but at least he won't have to have his leg amputated for lack of care. Things are looking up for all of them, it would just be nice to have a fairy Godmother to send me a maid, a landscaper, a cook, and some flowers once in awhile.
Though I don't foresee a time soon that I won't be doing animal rescue, I'm very hopeful that our volunteer and support base will increase so I could start to take a little bit more "me" time once in awhile. Maybe I'll even make my dream of meeting my idol come true, if the darn hurricanes will leave anything of Key West for the rest of us.
I'll admit, on rough days, I think about how I could be living on the water and driving a convertible with all the money I would have saved from not running an animal rescue. My 8th grade yearbook says I wanted to be a dolphin trainer when I grew up, and I originally went to college to become a journalist. I fell into web design as a geek and under peer pressure from my honors classmates. I've always held Jimmy Buffett as my idol, and I dream of visiting all 50 states at least once. I'd like to go for my captain's license finally, finish getting a master's degree, teach again, and fall in love. I still toy with the idea of skydiving, though I think I might stick to just parasailing for now.
Last week, we moved my dining room furniture out to make more room for crates for our special needs pets that need confinement and rest. But during the middle of the night, when I awoke to the crying sounds of a new rescue having a rough night, I realized I would like to have someone to look after me like that. There have been times in the past when I have slept in my truck to have more peace than I was getting at home. It's not their fault, I know that, but there are times I just want to be a little selfish. I have gotten accustomed to being home early to give meds and last time outs for potty, which means my social life pretty much ends by 9 pm. Thus my Internet addiction, what would I do without MySpace and Facebook?
I know this is where I'm supposed to be for now. Hope is sleeping snuggly in her crate with her two stuffed animals nestled beneath her, never to have to be chained again. Little Ike is sleeping peacefully in a dry, soft, comfy bed with a full tummy, probably the first he's known in many years. Herbie is no longer coughing, Lady is no longer scratching at her matted fur, Cora is no longer dodging traffic, Kuma no longer has to be a mom, and Junior, well, he's not happy being in a crate but at least he won't have to have his leg amputated for lack of care. Things are looking up for all of them, it would just be nice to have a fairy Godmother to send me a maid, a landscaper, a cook, and some flowers once in awhile.
Though I don't foresee a time soon that I won't be doing animal rescue, I'm very hopeful that our volunteer and support base will increase so I could start to take a little bit more "me" time once in awhile. Maybe I'll even make my dream of meeting my idol come true, if the darn hurricanes will leave anything of Key West for the rest of us.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Hanna: A Warning to Us All
I don't know about everyone else, but for the last week I feel like I've been on a roller coaster with Hanna. Will she affect us or won't she? It still seems to not be a clear answer. We've been working hard to ensure the safety of our pets and the continuation of our program. Which brings me to the subject of this post: are YOUR pets ready?
Downloads Now Available
Yesterday, we updated our "Hurricane Planning for Pets" page on CoastalPetRescue.org. We now have a packing checklist and animal identification form available for download. Additionally, we've added some links you may want to keep handy as we watch next week to see what Ike will do.
Purchase a Pet First Aid Kit
Thanks to our partnership with the Savannah Chapter of the Red Cross, we have a limited supply of pet first aid kits available for sale. This can be a valuable asset if anything happens with your pets during a storm or evacuation.
Pet Identification and Microchips
Do you have proper identification for your pets? Check now to make sure your pets have a properly-fitted collar with identification tag. Instead of your pet's name, put two phone numbers on the tag. If your pet is microchipped, take the time now to make sure the microchip registry has the most current contact information for you. 24PetWatch offers free registration of all chips through their online registry. If you have had your pet chipped through one of our low-cost clinics, you can refer to your yellow registration copy to get your ID number and register your pet online or update your information.
Where Can You Go?
If an evacuation is ordered, pet shelter openings will be announced by emergency management officials. However, you should consider asking friends or family where you will be staying first if your pet can come with you. If so, plan to take a crate for them to stay in so as to not impose upon your hosts. If not, start looking now for boarding kennels or veterinary offices where you will be going to have you pet boarded nearby. Additionally, make sure you have the name, address and phone number of the nearest veterinarian in the event your pet needs care during the evacuation.
When traveling with your pet, it is important that all vaccinations are current. Make sure to have copies of all medical records from your current veterinarian. Georgia State Law regulates that all pets, dogs and cats, have a yearly rabies vaccination. If you are taking your pet to an emergency shelter, your pet will not be admitted without proof of current vaccinations. Additionally, boarding facilities usually require the bordetella vaccine to protect against kennel cough. If your pet does not travel well, talk to your veterinarian about your options to make their trip less stressful.
Please, don't even think of leaving without your pets. Our animals are too domesticated and may not survive through a storm. Many pets found in the days after Hurricane Katrina were loaded with parasites, worms and heartworm disease from drinking bad water and living in filth. Do not leave your pets chained outside either as they could drown in flooding or suffocate trying to seek shelter.
While we may be breathing a little easier today than earlier this week, we are not out of hurricane season yet. Please take the time now to reduce your stress level. Hanna gave us a good warning that anything can happen, so plan now.
Get the latest in tropical developments online at Coastalstorms.com
Downloads Now Available
Yesterday, we updated our "Hurricane Planning for Pets" page on CoastalPetRescue.org. We now have a packing checklist and animal identification form available for download. Additionally, we've added some links you may want to keep handy as we watch next week to see what Ike will do.
Purchase a Pet First Aid Kit
Thanks to our partnership with the Savannah Chapter of the Red Cross, we have a limited supply of pet first aid kits available for sale. This can be a valuable asset if anything happens with your pets during a storm or evacuation.
Pet Identification and Microchips
Do you have proper identification for your pets? Check now to make sure your pets have a properly-fitted collar with identification tag. Instead of your pet's name, put two phone numbers on the tag. If your pet is microchipped, take the time now to make sure the microchip registry has the most current contact information for you. 24PetWatch offers free registration of all chips through their online registry. If you have had your pet chipped through one of our low-cost clinics, you can refer to your yellow registration copy to get your ID number and register your pet online or update your information.
Where Can You Go?
If an evacuation is ordered, pet shelter openings will be announced by emergency management officials. However, you should consider asking friends or family where you will be staying first if your pet can come with you. If so, plan to take a crate for them to stay in so as to not impose upon your hosts. If not, start looking now for boarding kennels or veterinary offices where you will be going to have you pet boarded nearby. Additionally, make sure you have the name, address and phone number of the nearest veterinarian in the event your pet needs care during the evacuation.
When traveling with your pet, it is important that all vaccinations are current. Make sure to have copies of all medical records from your current veterinarian. Georgia State Law regulates that all pets, dogs and cats, have a yearly rabies vaccination. If you are taking your pet to an emergency shelter, your pet will not be admitted without proof of current vaccinations. Additionally, boarding facilities usually require the bordetella vaccine to protect against kennel cough. If your pet does not travel well, talk to your veterinarian about your options to make their trip less stressful.
Please, don't even think of leaving without your pets. Our animals are too domesticated and may not survive through a storm. Many pets found in the days after Hurricane Katrina were loaded with parasites, worms and heartworm disease from drinking bad water and living in filth. Do not leave your pets chained outside either as they could drown in flooding or suffocate trying to seek shelter.
While we may be breathing a little easier today than earlier this week, we are not out of hurricane season yet. Please take the time now to reduce your stress level. Hanna gave us a good warning that anything can happen, so plan now.
Get the latest in tropical developments online at Coastalstorms.com
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
WalMart: Low Prices, Low Compassion During Hurricane Preparations
I spent my Labor Day making arrangements for our rescued pets, ensuring their safety and few hassles for foster parents needing to take care of their own families. So, I braved a trip to WalMart to stock up on dog food, chewies, water, and an 8-pack of paper towels. It was only as I was putting everything away that I realized I left the paper towels.
On the way home from work today, I stopped and took my receipt in to the customer non-service desk and explained the situation. After looking in "the book," the rep said there wasn't anything she could do because it wasn't listed in the book. I asked to speak with a manager. After hollering "Kathy" multiple times with no one answering her call, the rep finally walked off and got "Kathy." I was not greeted with a smile or "how can I help you?" as you see on the TV commercials (maybe she gets paid much less than those actors, who knows?). Instead, I got a "you need somethin'," said with great impatience. I explained the situation to her again. She looked again in "the book," and said there was nothing she could do. I explained that these were storm supplies for our animal rescue. Her response? "It's not our liability." Nice. What great compassion to show during the first tropical storm threat to our area since Hurricane Floyd.
I know my boycott of them (I even passed up the $3.49 gas) won't do much of anything, but it makes me feel a little better. At least Kroger is just up the road. I guess I'll be seeing them a little later tonight.
On the way home from work today, I stopped and took my receipt in to the customer non-service desk and explained the situation. After looking in "the book," the rep said there wasn't anything she could do because it wasn't listed in the book. I asked to speak with a manager. After hollering "Kathy" multiple times with no one answering her call, the rep finally walked off and got "Kathy." I was not greeted with a smile or "how can I help you?" as you see on the TV commercials (maybe she gets paid much less than those actors, who knows?). Instead, I got a "you need somethin'," said with great impatience. I explained the situation to her again. She looked again in "the book," and said there was nothing she could do. I explained that these were storm supplies for our animal rescue. Her response? "It's not our liability." Nice. What great compassion to show during the first tropical storm threat to our area since Hurricane Floyd.
I know my boycott of them (I even passed up the $3.49 gas) won't do much of anything, but it makes me feel a little better. At least Kroger is just up the road. I guess I'll be seeing them a little later tonight.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Hurricane Season is in Full Swing... Are You Prepared?
It seems like we just got through wondering about Fay, now we have Hanna, Ike and Josephine out in the Atlantic. It doesn't look like we'll have a boring September, to say the least.
Chatham Emergency Management Agency has started issuing releases regarding Hurricane Hanna and her impact on coastal Georgia. At this time, CEMA is in Operating Condition (OPCON) 4, the Monitoring Phase as defined by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency. OPCON 4 is the first stage in advanced readiness. What this means to the rest of us is to start taking inventory of our hurricane storm plans. Some actions you can take:
I spent most of yesterday making arrangements to move pets from our rescue further inland. I can't tell you how difficult that was to try and get boarding set up. One kennel said no, another told us they would call us Wednesday afternoon if they hadn't already booked everything else. As a rescue reliant upon foster homes, I don't have the luxury of waiting until an hour or two before a storm hits to make decisions. I have to account for our pets so our foster parents can take care of their own families.
Presently, I am anticipating riding out the storm unless given an order to leave. I have my gas tank filled, extra cash on hand, checked my first aid supplies, bought extra bags of dog food and gallons of water yesterday, stocked up on non-perishable food for myself, and bought extra batteries for my flashlights. I even went and purchased an American Red Cross AM/FM/Weather radio that also has a cell phone charger to make things a little easier when power goes out. Now all that's left for me to do is to teach at least one of the dogs to play cards so we have something to do.
In all honesty, we too often take for granted a storm is going to miss us. With hurricanes, their paths are a best guess by meterologists and their computers, and always just that: a guess. Mother Nature has been known to throw curve balls from time to time (remember the St. Patrick's blackout?), so it is better to prepare now than fall victim to her whims later.
For information on how you can prepare, visit our hurricane and evacuation information site, CoastalStorms.com.
Chatham Emergency Management Agency has started issuing releases regarding Hurricane Hanna and her impact on coastal Georgia. At this time, CEMA is in Operating Condition (OPCON) 4, the Monitoring Phase as defined by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency. OPCON 4 is the first stage in advanced readiness. What this means to the rest of us is to start taking inventory of our hurricane storm plans. Some actions you can take:
- Monitor local media for updates
- Make sure your gas tank is full
- Secure important documents in a water-proof container and have in one place
- Take photos and videos of your home, possessions, and anything else you might need for insurance purposes
- Check that you have plenty of water and non-perishable food
- Check and replenish first aid supplies
- Make sure you have immediate access to flashlights and battery-powered radio and extra batteries
- Secure outdoor lawn furniture and loose objects
- Have cash on hand to use if power is out
I spent most of yesterday making arrangements to move pets from our rescue further inland. I can't tell you how difficult that was to try and get boarding set up. One kennel said no, another told us they would call us Wednesday afternoon if they hadn't already booked everything else. As a rescue reliant upon foster homes, I don't have the luxury of waiting until an hour or two before a storm hits to make decisions. I have to account for our pets so our foster parents can take care of their own families.
Presently, I am anticipating riding out the storm unless given an order to leave. I have my gas tank filled, extra cash on hand, checked my first aid supplies, bought extra bags of dog food and gallons of water yesterday, stocked up on non-perishable food for myself, and bought extra batteries for my flashlights. I even went and purchased an American Red Cross AM/FM/Weather radio that also has a cell phone charger to make things a little easier when power goes out. Now all that's left for me to do is to teach at least one of the dogs to play cards so we have something to do.
In all honesty, we too often take for granted a storm is going to miss us. With hurricanes, their paths are a best guess by meterologists and their computers, and always just that: a guess. Mother Nature has been known to throw curve balls from time to time (remember the St. Patrick's blackout?), so it is better to prepare now than fall victim to her whims later.
For information on how you can prepare, visit our hurricane and evacuation information site, CoastalStorms.com.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
No Type A on Tybee
I've been accused many a time of being type A+ personality. A couple years ago, my friend Karen that has a rescue across the river called me the "posterchild for Obsessive-Compulsive Over-Achievers of America." She's probably right; I do put a lot on myself to always do better and be better. But a lot of that slid by this summer.
Back in June, I started going to work for my parents at the marina on the weekends, something I hadn't done in many years. I had forgotten how much I loved being on the water and what a difference it makes for making me relax. I had the joy of meeting some new friends this summer that helped me remember how blessed I have been to have a life on the water. I took to late night fishing out in the Atlantic, sitting on the dock watching the tide change, and tonight, even a sunset parasail ride.
But as Labor Day draws my summer to a close, I have to say goodbye to these great new friends of mine. It is something I got accustomed to growing up on Tybee; people float in for the season and haul out at the end. It's still never easy, and you always feel a twinge of sadness at their leaving. But you remember the fun you had and hug your goodbyes, always extending the invitation to return another time.
For me, I wonder if this will be the end of my weekly reprieves. True, working seven days a week has been tiring, but I feel less tired at the end of my marina work days than I do during the week. Perhaps it is because I know that deep down, I belong there, that this life I created to change the world doesn't have to be the only life I know anymore. I guess time will tell. For now, I'll enjoy the final celebration of summer with fireworks, good friends and family, and look forward to not having to have a plan for everything everyday.
Back in June, I started going to work for my parents at the marina on the weekends, something I hadn't done in many years. I had forgotten how much I loved being on the water and what a difference it makes for making me relax. I had the joy of meeting some new friends this summer that helped me remember how blessed I have been to have a life on the water. I took to late night fishing out in the Atlantic, sitting on the dock watching the tide change, and tonight, even a sunset parasail ride.
But as Labor Day draws my summer to a close, I have to say goodbye to these great new friends of mine. It is something I got accustomed to growing up on Tybee; people float in for the season and haul out at the end. It's still never easy, and you always feel a twinge of sadness at their leaving. But you remember the fun you had and hug your goodbyes, always extending the invitation to return another time.
For me, I wonder if this will be the end of my weekly reprieves. True, working seven days a week has been tiring, but I feel less tired at the end of my marina work days than I do during the week. Perhaps it is because I know that deep down, I belong there, that this life I created to change the world doesn't have to be the only life I know anymore. I guess time will tell. For now, I'll enjoy the final celebration of summer with fireworks, good friends and family, and look forward to not having to have a plan for everything everyday.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Special Needs Shouldn't be a Death Sentence for Pets
Recently, I made an appeal for financial help for four of our pets (now five) that are needing extra medical care before adoption. One person wrote me that we were wasting our funds instead of using the money to save more animals that are healthier. To me, that's incredibly insensitive and ignorant.
First off, we don't know the needs of a pet until we get them. Would it make a difference if in their holding cells at animal control they held up a sign that said "I'm going to cost you $2,000 in vet care"? No, and it shouldn't. An animal should not be given a death sentence because of ignorance or cruelty of their previous caretakers. How can I look at Hope who had already had extensive medical care and needs more to treat her heartworms and tell her that, although she survived several years of intense neglect that she costs us too much to continue living? I can't, just like we fight as hard as we can for the puppies we take that turn out to have parvovirus but may not always make it.
We are rescuers. We're compassionate and sometimes our hearts overrule our heads. My job is to make sure we don't go too far in debt so that we can keep up with the care of the pets already in our programs. But I also see these special needs pets as educational tools to the public. Several times I walked Hope at PetSmart or the vet and had people ask what happened to her neck, why did she have a lot of skin exposed. When I tell her story, you can see the shock in their faces. If nothing else, it makes me feel like they will remember her story and maybe be more considerate of pets in similar situations and take action rather than let them suffer.
First off, we don't know the needs of a pet until we get them. Would it make a difference if in their holding cells at animal control they held up a sign that said "I'm going to cost you $2,000 in vet care"? No, and it shouldn't. An animal should not be given a death sentence because of ignorance or cruelty of their previous caretakers. How can I look at Hope who had already had extensive medical care and needs more to treat her heartworms and tell her that, although she survived several years of intense neglect that she costs us too much to continue living? I can't, just like we fight as hard as we can for the puppies we take that turn out to have parvovirus but may not always make it.
We are rescuers. We're compassionate and sometimes our hearts overrule our heads. My job is to make sure we don't go too far in debt so that we can keep up with the care of the pets already in our programs. But I also see these special needs pets as educational tools to the public. Several times I walked Hope at PetSmart or the vet and had people ask what happened to her neck, why did she have a lot of skin exposed. When I tell her story, you can see the shock in their faces. If nothing else, it makes me feel like they will remember her story and maybe be more considerate of pets in similar situations and take action rather than let them suffer.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Special Needs Pets Need a Little Help
We can all agree the economy right now is hard on everyone, but non-profits especially are feeling the pinch. At Coastal Pet Rescue, we're doing all we can to keep our services available to those in need, but we still need a little more support.
Coastal Pet Rescue currently has four dogs undergoing special and extensive medical care:
Hope
Hope is a very special dog. She was left behind when her family moved, and the landlord found her tied up in the yard on a chain. Sadly, she had spent so much time out there, the collar grew into her neck. The landlord left her at the Savannah Emergency Veterinary clinic. The techs fell in love with her and called Coastal Pet Rescue to take her. Hope was maintained on pain management and antibiotics and had her wound sutured before she was picked up by CPR.
Since her arrival to CPR, Hope was transferred to Georgetown Veterinary Hospital and her wound was re-opened to reduce complications in the healing process. She was boarded with GVH to receive ongoing, daily care for her wound and came home to her foster mom July 29.
Unfortunately, Hope also tested strong positive for heartworms. Given the severity and the issues surrounding her current state, Hope will be on Heartgard for three months before she can have her treatment. She will be under heartworm treatment for two months thereafter, at least. If everything goes right, Hope should be ready to be adopted between Christmas and New Year's.
Kuma
Kuma and her son, Kobi, were found wandering the streets. After two weeks of searching for an owner, they were turned over to Coastal Pet Rescue.
Kuma is a typical Golden Retriever, loves to give kisses and will follow you everywhere. She has gained weight and her fur is no longer coarse. However, she is heartworm positive. She has already received her first treatment. She will start her second treatment the first week of September.
Cora
She was found at a dump site during the rains of tropical storm Fay. Our president spent over a half hour gaining her trust to get her home to someplace dry with good food. Coastal Pet Rescue had her spayed and shots administered, however, it turns out she is also heartworm positive and will need treatment.
Junior
This sad little boy found his way to Chatham County Animal Control after being hit by a car and left at the emergency vet due to financial limitations of his family. Junior is getting around great right now, but is enjoying resting comfortably in his foster home and being nursed by his older foster sister. He is currently undergoing exams at Georgetown Animal Hospital to determine the extent of his injuries and the necessary medical treatment needed.
Please consider making a contribution towards their care. Even $10 can really add up for these pets.
Coastal Pet Rescue currently has four dogs undergoing special and extensive medical care:
Hope
Hope is a very special dog. She was left behind when her family moved, and the landlord found her tied up in the yard on a chain. Sadly, she had spent so much time out there, the collar grew into her neck. The landlord left her at the Savannah Emergency Veterinary clinic. The techs fell in love with her and called Coastal Pet Rescue to take her. Hope was maintained on pain management and antibiotics and had her wound sutured before she was picked up by CPR.
Since her arrival to CPR, Hope was transferred to Georgetown Veterinary Hospital and her wound was re-opened to reduce complications in the healing process. She was boarded with GVH to receive ongoing, daily care for her wound and came home to her foster mom July 29.
Unfortunately, Hope also tested strong positive for heartworms. Given the severity and the issues surrounding her current state, Hope will be on Heartgard for three months before she can have her treatment. She will be under heartworm treatment for two months thereafter, at least. If everything goes right, Hope should be ready to be adopted between Christmas and New Year's.
Kuma
Kuma and her son, Kobi, were found wandering the streets. After two weeks of searching for an owner, they were turned over to Coastal Pet Rescue.
Kuma is a typical Golden Retriever, loves to give kisses and will follow you everywhere. She has gained weight and her fur is no longer coarse. However, she is heartworm positive. She has already received her first treatment. She will start her second treatment the first week of September.
Cora
She was found at a dump site during the rains of tropical storm Fay. Our president spent over a half hour gaining her trust to get her home to someplace dry with good food. Coastal Pet Rescue had her spayed and shots administered, however, it turns out she is also heartworm positive and will need treatment.
Junior
This sad little boy found his way to Chatham County Animal Control after being hit by a car and left at the emergency vet due to financial limitations of his family. Junior is getting around great right now, but is enjoying resting comfortably in his foster home and being nursed by his older foster sister. He is currently undergoing exams at Georgetown Animal Hospital to determine the extent of his injuries and the necessary medical treatment needed.
Please consider making a contribution towards their care. Even $10 can really add up for these pets.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Tropical Storm Fay Brings More than Just Wind and Rain to CPR
It seems like it has been forever since I've seen the sunshine. For me, that's devastating. I love being outdoors, and lately, I've been spending more of it back home on Tybee. But alas, it is hurricane season and Fay had to bring all she could to our area, which means my home has been filled with dogs frustrated because they can't go outside and play and the smell of wet puppy for the times I drag them out to go potty.
So today, I worked from home. I made an attempt to watch Transformers on HBO, but it kept getting interrupted by all the tornado warnings. Then around 2, my email popped open with a photo of a puppy... taken by one of our board members at animal control. Unfortunately for me, it wasn't the puppy she had gone there to see. After two phone calls, arrangements were made for her and another officer to bring over four new pups to our program. It's still pouring sheets of rain outside, but luckily enough another volunteer came over to prep the house for the new intakes: one matted adult poodle in desperate need of a good bath, one 10 week old black lab puppy, one five month old flat coated retriever puppy, and one dog with a busted leg. What a halfway house this has become.
A few hours later, everyone is settled, I'm finally out of my PJs (was sporting the lazy look today), showered and headed over for a home-cooked meal since Wendy owed me for the new intakes. Wouldn't you know it, on my way over, I spotted three dogs scrounging for food at the dump yard. It's still raining, and I feel awful for them, even though I knew they wouldn't come to me if I stopped. But I just couldn't keep driving. I turned around, pulled over and grabbed my cans of food out of the back of the truck. Two dogs ran off, but one little girl waddled over to me, tail down but wagging a little. She stopped just a foot in front of me, head down. I held out the can of food, which she tried to take and run. I kept ahold of it, stroking her head and telling her what a nice girl she was. Her body changed... stood up completely, and her tail started wagging as a happy dog should. It was then I noticed her belly... and had to figure out what in the world I would do with a pregnant dog at home. I stood up to look in the truck for a slip lead, but before I could, she ran across the street after one of the other dogs. My heart nearly stopped as she was almost hit by a car. I called to her, begged her to stay put, but she just kept running off. I got in the truck and followed her, keeping a lookout for other traffic. I pulled off to a side road ahead of her, got out, and called to her again. She was wagging her tail but didn't want to leave her companion. He ran across the street again, and she after him. Not to be outdone, I stayed, trying to coax her back safely. Another car was coming, I called to her to stay put, as if she would really understand me. The car saw me and stopped, probably more afraid of what the crazy person in the rain sitting on the side of the road might do. I ran across and she just rolled over on her back, half in the road. I grabbed her and pulled her to me just as another car was coming from the same direction. I waited for traffic to clear, scooped her up and ran back across, putting her in the truck. I hadn't even bothered to notice that I had slipped and twisted my knee again, the same one I tore my MCL just a few short months ago. Maybe I'll remember next time that running across a busy street in the rain while wearing flip flops isn't the best idea.
We arrived back at the ranch and I got her settled in to an open kennel. I poured the remaining canned food into a dish and ran inside the house to get some fresh bedding. Before I got back, the food was gone, not even a drop left. I sat with her for a little while, reassuring her that she was safe and we'd take good care of her. She just kept wagging her tail and sat in my lap. I don't know if she really understands what is going on, but I know my heart is still pounding from the excitement. It's been awhile since I've gotten so hands on in the rescue work; usually, someone else just dumps them on my doorstep or calls to get them a ride. Even though I was soaked and covered in mud, I felt the best I've felt all week. And, I still made it to dinner afterall.
So today, I worked from home. I made an attempt to watch Transformers on HBO, but it kept getting interrupted by all the tornado warnings. Then around 2, my email popped open with a photo of a puppy... taken by one of our board members at animal control. Unfortunately for me, it wasn't the puppy she had gone there to see. After two phone calls, arrangements were made for her and another officer to bring over four new pups to our program. It's still pouring sheets of rain outside, but luckily enough another volunteer came over to prep the house for the new intakes: one matted adult poodle in desperate need of a good bath, one 10 week old black lab puppy, one five month old flat coated retriever puppy, and one dog with a busted leg. What a halfway house this has become.
A few hours later, everyone is settled, I'm finally out of my PJs (was sporting the lazy look today), showered and headed over for a home-cooked meal since Wendy owed me for the new intakes. Wouldn't you know it, on my way over, I spotted three dogs scrounging for food at the dump yard. It's still raining, and I feel awful for them, even though I knew they wouldn't come to me if I stopped. But I just couldn't keep driving. I turned around, pulled over and grabbed my cans of food out of the back of the truck. Two dogs ran off, but one little girl waddled over to me, tail down but wagging a little. She stopped just a foot in front of me, head down. I held out the can of food, which she tried to take and run. I kept ahold of it, stroking her head and telling her what a nice girl she was. Her body changed... stood up completely, and her tail started wagging as a happy dog should. It was then I noticed her belly... and had to figure out what in the world I would do with a pregnant dog at home. I stood up to look in the truck for a slip lead, but before I could, she ran across the street after one of the other dogs. My heart nearly stopped as she was almost hit by a car. I called to her, begged her to stay put, but she just kept running off. I got in the truck and followed her, keeping a lookout for other traffic. I pulled off to a side road ahead of her, got out, and called to her again. She was wagging her tail but didn't want to leave her companion. He ran across the street again, and she after him. Not to be outdone, I stayed, trying to coax her back safely. Another car was coming, I called to her to stay put, as if she would really understand me. The car saw me and stopped, probably more afraid of what the crazy person in the rain sitting on the side of the road might do. I ran across and she just rolled over on her back, half in the road. I grabbed her and pulled her to me just as another car was coming from the same direction. I waited for traffic to clear, scooped her up and ran back across, putting her in the truck. I hadn't even bothered to notice that I had slipped and twisted my knee again, the same one I tore my MCL just a few short months ago. Maybe I'll remember next time that running across a busy street in the rain while wearing flip flops isn't the best idea.
We arrived back at the ranch and I got her settled in to an open kennel. I poured the remaining canned food into a dish and ran inside the house to get some fresh bedding. Before I got back, the food was gone, not even a drop left. I sat with her for a little while, reassuring her that she was safe and we'd take good care of her. She just kept wagging her tail and sat in my lap. I don't know if she really understands what is going on, but I know my heart is still pounding from the excitement. It's been awhile since I've gotten so hands on in the rescue work; usually, someone else just dumps them on my doorstep or calls to get them a ride. Even though I was soaked and covered in mud, I felt the best I've felt all week. And, I still made it to dinner afterall.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Olympic Spirit
For the first time since the 1996 Olympics, I've been glued to the coverage. I have my friend Eddie to thank for that, as I hadn't watched a moment of it until he brought me into his addiction. But watching the sports reminded me of my Olympic memories.
In 1995, my parents got on board to help out individuals trying out for the US Olympic sailing team. We were flat broke; my parents had invested all their savings to start a dream life on Tybee. They gave up lucrative careers to build something for themselves and to give me a better life. We had no heat, no air conditioning, and no hot water, but we had hospitality, dock space, and plenty of room for camping out. My dad heard about the sacrifices so many of these athletes were making. One couple had sold their home and moved into an RV to help their son with costs for training and tryouts. So my dad put out an offer that any US athlete trying out or making it to the Olympics could stay with us for free. Being the small community we are here at the waterfront village, the shrimpers at our dock provided shrimp and two others had low country boil waiting on the dock each night the teams came back from practices and trials. I didn't realize back then just how much these athletes loved what they were doing. I saw them off every morning and greeted them every evening. Whether they had a good day or a bad day, they were always just thankful to be out there.
When the Olympics finally came around in 1996, we hosted two of the US teams, the entire Italian (FIV) team and its president and the Cayman Islands team which was being coached by one of the US teams we hosted during the 1995 trials. Once again, we were having nightly low country boils and talking about their days' work. I was treated to several trips to the Olympic Village downtown. I can't say anything has ever come quite close to that experience, being surrounded by the greatest athletes from around the world. Even though I only played soccer and had never spent much time on sailboats, I was in awe each time I got to go down there. I even got front seats aboard the coach boat for the Caymans team to watch the actual Olympic races.
This past Tuesday, I had the honor of attending a breakfast celebrating former Olympic athletes now living in Savannah. To listen to their stories, especially for the athletes from Mali and the Sudan, you could never quite comprehend the level of commitment and love for the sport. I played soccer up through my freshman year of college, but I did it for fun. I had no addiction to the sport, I just enjoyed playing. But these athletes made huge sacrifices, often going against the odds. If I only had an ounce of their dedication and passion, I wonder what I could really do.
I spent last night hanging out with my dad watching the Olympics at the Legion on Tybee. My mom is out of town for a family funeral, and it is the first time she's left my dad alone in 14 years, so I came to spend some time with him. My dad rarely talks, but as we were watching the Olympics last night, he started telling stories from our parts in 1995 and 1996. He glowed with pride to be able to tell others about how much support he was able to give to teams that left their homes and had hardly anyone here cheering them on. I never quite knew just how much that meant to him until he was sharing it all with me last night. He even still keeps the pennants all the teams signed up on our office walls. But what really stunned me last night was how much the Olympics actually bonded us. We were the ones here every morning to wish them luck and we were the ones here every evening to welcome them home. And last night, we were here once again, together, cheering on our favorite teams.
In 1995, my parents got on board to help out individuals trying out for the US Olympic sailing team. We were flat broke; my parents had invested all their savings to start a dream life on Tybee. They gave up lucrative careers to build something for themselves and to give me a better life. We had no heat, no air conditioning, and no hot water, but we had hospitality, dock space, and plenty of room for camping out. My dad heard about the sacrifices so many of these athletes were making. One couple had sold their home and moved into an RV to help their son with costs for training and tryouts. So my dad put out an offer that any US athlete trying out or making it to the Olympics could stay with us for free. Being the small community we are here at the waterfront village, the shrimpers at our dock provided shrimp and two others had low country boil waiting on the dock each night the teams came back from practices and trials. I didn't realize back then just how much these athletes loved what they were doing. I saw them off every morning and greeted them every evening. Whether they had a good day or a bad day, they were always just thankful to be out there.
When the Olympics finally came around in 1996, we hosted two of the US teams, the entire Italian (FIV) team and its president and the Cayman Islands team which was being coached by one of the US teams we hosted during the 1995 trials. Once again, we were having nightly low country boils and talking about their days' work. I was treated to several trips to the Olympic Village downtown. I can't say anything has ever come quite close to that experience, being surrounded by the greatest athletes from around the world. Even though I only played soccer and had never spent much time on sailboats, I was in awe each time I got to go down there. I even got front seats aboard the coach boat for the Caymans team to watch the actual Olympic races.
This past Tuesday, I had the honor of attending a breakfast celebrating former Olympic athletes now living in Savannah. To listen to their stories, especially for the athletes from Mali and the Sudan, you could never quite comprehend the level of commitment and love for the sport. I played soccer up through my freshman year of college, but I did it for fun. I had no addiction to the sport, I just enjoyed playing. But these athletes made huge sacrifices, often going against the odds. If I only had an ounce of their dedication and passion, I wonder what I could really do.
I spent last night hanging out with my dad watching the Olympics at the Legion on Tybee. My mom is out of town for a family funeral, and it is the first time she's left my dad alone in 14 years, so I came to spend some time with him. My dad rarely talks, but as we were watching the Olympics last night, he started telling stories from our parts in 1995 and 1996. He glowed with pride to be able to tell others about how much support he was able to give to teams that left their homes and had hardly anyone here cheering them on. I never quite knew just how much that meant to him until he was sharing it all with me last night. He even still keeps the pennants all the teams signed up on our office walls. But what really stunned me last night was how much the Olympics actually bonded us. We were the ones here every morning to wish them luck and we were the ones here every evening to welcome them home. And last night, we were here once again, together, cheering on our favorite teams.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Finding Hope
I've been struggling with what to write as so much has been going on in my life recently. But I guess it all starts at the crossroads.
In July, I left to spend some time in Cincinnati for the possibility of relocating. It took awhile to get everything squared away for the pups so I wouldn't worry while I was gone. I still found myself getting up at the same time every morning, and soon discovered that silence is creepy to me. I spent a lot of time by myself, reading a new book, and tanning out on the back patio. I laughed every day of the weather reports about the "heat wave" we were having. I was barely breaking a sweat. I spent other time working remotely, still checking emails, and making posts on the forum. I was there to ponder the possibility of spending the rest of my life with someone, but still felt terribly alone.
Since we first met, Aaron has called me type A+ personality. He's right. I can't ever just sit still; I don't really know how to. And that drove me nuts in Cincy. I felt guilty that I was there, having fun while others were here picking up my responsibilities. I missed my "kids," even their obnoxious behaviors and chewing up things that don't belong to them. I just didn't feel like me. I thought I'd be happy leaving Savannah, finding someone who loved me for all that I am, and treated me to wonderful times (I did at least finally get to go to my first Jimmy Buffett concert). But it just wasn't enough. As much as my heart had been aching throughout the long distance relationship, I actually found myself crying because I missed my home and the rescue. I was incredibly hurt that Cincy people were not friendly, waves and smiles were never returned, and no such thing as chit chat in stores. Even at the Buffett concert, where people had been tailgating for days (several Parrothead clubs made the trip), I didn't find reception to outsiders. I felt like I had no purpose. But the day before I left, I got my reminder.
We were on our way back down to the levee in Newport when my cell rang. The caller id said "ER Vet." I immediately panicked, not knowing if it was one of my babies or a foster. A familiar voice answered, and said they had a situation and wanted my help. I was quite relieved, until I heard the story. A dog had been brought in the night before by a landlord, apparently having been left by the tenants. She had been on a chain, for how long we may never know, but it had grown into her neck. The vet techs took to the dog immediately and started cleaning her wound, applied a bandage, and gave her pain medication and antibiotics. They told me they just couldn't turn her over to animal control, she was just too sweet. I agreed to take her when I returned from my flight at 9:30 the next night. I hung up the phone and realized I hadn't even bothered to ask her age, her size or even her breed. I think I was just so relieved to be reminded that I had a purpose in life.
And thus begins the story of Hope, the dog that reminds me each day with her kisses that we all have a place in this world, even if we aren't always sure we're there yet.
In July, I left to spend some time in Cincinnati for the possibility of relocating. It took awhile to get everything squared away for the pups so I wouldn't worry while I was gone. I still found myself getting up at the same time every morning, and soon discovered that silence is creepy to me. I spent a lot of time by myself, reading a new book, and tanning out on the back patio. I laughed every day of the weather reports about the "heat wave" we were having. I was barely breaking a sweat. I spent other time working remotely, still checking emails, and making posts on the forum. I was there to ponder the possibility of spending the rest of my life with someone, but still felt terribly alone.
Since we first met, Aaron has called me type A+ personality. He's right. I can't ever just sit still; I don't really know how to. And that drove me nuts in Cincy. I felt guilty that I was there, having fun while others were here picking up my responsibilities. I missed my "kids," even their obnoxious behaviors and chewing up things that don't belong to them. I just didn't feel like me. I thought I'd be happy leaving Savannah, finding someone who loved me for all that I am, and treated me to wonderful times (I did at least finally get to go to my first Jimmy Buffett concert). But it just wasn't enough. As much as my heart had been aching throughout the long distance relationship, I actually found myself crying because I missed my home and the rescue. I was incredibly hurt that Cincy people were not friendly, waves and smiles were never returned, and no such thing as chit chat in stores. Even at the Buffett concert, where people had been tailgating for days (several Parrothead clubs made the trip), I didn't find reception to outsiders. I felt like I had no purpose. But the day before I left, I got my reminder.
We were on our way back down to the levee in Newport when my cell rang. The caller id said "ER Vet." I immediately panicked, not knowing if it was one of my babies or a foster. A familiar voice answered, and said they had a situation and wanted my help. I was quite relieved, until I heard the story. A dog had been brought in the night before by a landlord, apparently having been left by the tenants. She had been on a chain, for how long we may never know, but it had grown into her neck. The vet techs took to the dog immediately and started cleaning her wound, applied a bandage, and gave her pain medication and antibiotics. They told me they just couldn't turn her over to animal control, she was just too sweet. I agreed to take her when I returned from my flight at 9:30 the next night. I hung up the phone and realized I hadn't even bothered to ask her age, her size or even her breed. I think I was just so relieved to be reminded that I had a purpose in life.
And thus begins the story of Hope, the dog that reminds me each day with her kisses that we all have a place in this world, even if we aren't always sure we're there yet.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Real Friendships
This past month has been a complete whirlwind. I can't believe it is already July. But it is time to pay my dues to the blog, so here goes...
A couple weeks ago, I got a very disturbing text message on my cell phone. One of my closest friends from high school and a post-divorce roommate had just lost his baby to SIDS. I was stunned. This is not a first to have a friend lose a baby, but for this particular person, I was incredibly saddened. He had spent the last two years turning his life around, attending AA regularly, settling down with another of my friends from high school. He was so incredibly excited about being a dad for the first time. I remember seeing the sweetheart down at the marina for an oyster roast we had back in April. I made a few cracks to his wife about my condolences that the kid's genes were 50% his, but at least he was cute. To be truthful, he looked just like his daddy, which isn't a bad thing; after all, we were boyfriend/girlfriend a couple times as well.
I immediately contacted another best friend of ours after getting the message. We took turns going back and forth, waiting for more details. I was astonished at all I was told and all the wife was put through. It really broke my heart. I have no way of knowing her feelings, but knowing the additional stress and strain being put on her, I could not imagine myself tolerating well.
I set about contacting a few others from our circle, working to make sure he would have the support he needed during this time. And it happened. Even after years of us all going our own ways, starting new careers and families, we have never forgotten the bonds that made us all friends in the first place. In fact, one friend flew in from Texas to be at his side for the memorial. We took turns catching up between hugs and tears, trying to set aside what we were about to watch but not forgetting why we were there.
It was one of the saddest days I've had in a long time, watching two people I care about and deeply admire lay their two-month-old baby to rest. But I watched as they held each other and their other daughter, knowing that their "for better or for worse" vows are truly being tested, and admired their strength. I know that the days ahead of them will continue to put that to the test, but there are no doubts in my mind that their love for one another will see them through. I hope one day to have a relationship as strong as theirs, though I pray never to have to endure the same tests.
A couple weeks ago, I got a very disturbing text message on my cell phone. One of my closest friends from high school and a post-divorce roommate had just lost his baby to SIDS. I was stunned. This is not a first to have a friend lose a baby, but for this particular person, I was incredibly saddened. He had spent the last two years turning his life around, attending AA regularly, settling down with another of my friends from high school. He was so incredibly excited about being a dad for the first time. I remember seeing the sweetheart down at the marina for an oyster roast we had back in April. I made a few cracks to his wife about my condolences that the kid's genes were 50% his, but at least he was cute. To be truthful, he looked just like his daddy, which isn't a bad thing; after all, we were boyfriend/girlfriend a couple times as well.
I immediately contacted another best friend of ours after getting the message. We took turns going back and forth, waiting for more details. I was astonished at all I was told and all the wife was put through. It really broke my heart. I have no way of knowing her feelings, but knowing the additional stress and strain being put on her, I could not imagine myself tolerating well.
I set about contacting a few others from our circle, working to make sure he would have the support he needed during this time. And it happened. Even after years of us all going our own ways, starting new careers and families, we have never forgotten the bonds that made us all friends in the first place. In fact, one friend flew in from Texas to be at his side for the memorial. We took turns catching up between hugs and tears, trying to set aside what we were about to watch but not forgetting why we were there.
It was one of the saddest days I've had in a long time, watching two people I care about and deeply admire lay their two-month-old baby to rest. But I watched as they held each other and their other daughter, knowing that their "for better or for worse" vows are truly being tested, and admired their strength. I know that the days ahead of them will continue to put that to the test, but there are no doubts in my mind that their love for one another will see them through. I hope one day to have a relationship as strong as theirs, though I pray never to have to endure the same tests.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
From Heartbreaking to Hopeful
A week ago Sunday, Wendy and I drove up to Camden, SC to rescue two Golden Retriever brothers, a young Shepherd puppy, and a female Chihuahua mix. We had gotten an email the week before telling us they were on death row. Knowing that we usually have success with adopting these breeds, we committed to the six-hour trip, also adding on a "hitchhiker" senior Eskie to his new home in Jacksonville on the way back. We departed around 7 am on our journey.
While I love Wendy dearly, I will be the first to tell you she is not a morning person. She is also not someone who will help keep you awake on an early morning drive. She woke up about 20 minutes from our destination when I stopped at a McDonald's in Columbia for a potty break.
I had no idea how rural this shelter was we were going to. I have been to lots of shelters around Georgia, Florida, South Carolina and even the ASPCA in New York. But when we drove up, all I could think was "wow, this really makes Chatham County look good." But what met us on the outside was complete deception.
Normally, the shelter is closed on the weekends, but staff and volunteers come in to take care of the pets and arrange for out-of-area rescues to give reprieves for death row puppies. We were amazed at the friendliness and interaction the folks made with us and the animals. One person took to getting our paperwork ready while Wendy and I went to meet other pets. We were so heartbroken; so many good looking dogs and cats and we only came for three. We watched puppies run together and play in their pool; adult dogs grouped together for play as well. Kittens shared two dog runs where they could climb and be kittens; adult cats napped on top of the runs. With so little given to them, this staff has really done so much.
After thirty minutes, it was apparent we were not headed back to Savannah with just three pups. We contemplated the exact arrangement of crates in the SUV and how we could get everyone back safely and comfortably.
Wendy and I both fell for this beautiful white retriever girl. Wendy said it; I told her we needed to wait and see what else was available, knowing full well we'd be taking her back with us. But Wendy wouldn't let up; she really wanted the retriever. I saw a couple of puppies that caught my eye; they were all so cute, how could you just pick out a couple, but two really struck me. One was a pug/bulldog puppy. It wasn't just her face that struck me, but her fearlessness with the pack. I couldn't resist her. And then there was a carbon-copy of Wendy's beloved Blue, which we later named Bluebelle. And then there was this quiet little puppy in the back of another pen. She caught both our eyes. I picked her up and noticed a little bit of clear discharge from her nose. We figured it was just the start of kennel cough, so decided to keep her separate from the others.
We thought we were done, until a staff member pointed us to two Chihuahuas. They had been seized from a local dog fighting ring. It made me sick to see them, covered in fleas and cowering in the back of the crate. The brindle one was closest to us. He had his head bent down, almost as if he was ashamed for the way he looked. I asked the staff person if she had held him. She said he did fine though he shivered a lot. Behind him was a white pint-sized Chihuahua (the brindle was larger than standard breed size). I asked for a towel to keep my hands from being bit as I reached in to grab the brindle Chi. He did just as the staff member said; I placed him in Wendy's arms and went to get the other one. Just as I entered my hand into the cage, he snapped, an obvious reaction to the life he had been living. I shook my head, knowing we didn't have a place to work with one that had been taken that far away from a loving companion. I told the staff I was sorry, but we would take the brindle one, which we named Jose Cuervo.
So while the staff went to finding all the additional paperwork for the the additional five canines we decided to rescue, I took to getting all the crates rearranged and ready for our long journey home. We left nearly an hour later than I had planned, but Wendy and I both felt great about what we had just done. She even offered to take the retriever (we named Magnolia) home with her. I joked that her husband was going to divorce her, but I knew he'd be just as big a sucker for her as we were.
We drove an hour to Manning, SC, picking up our canine hitchhiker and made good time to get back to the ranch. Wendy took to bathing puppies while I prepped kennels and crates. All puppies settled in after a good meal, and I began uploading photos and descriptions to start adoption promotion.
Throughout the night, I kept an eye on Carrie, the only puppy that seemed a little under the weather. I started her on Clavamox we had left over from other puppies, resolving to get her to the vet the next afternoon. But by the time I had returned from the radio show at 9:30, she had already vomited. I couldn't believe it. This shelter had not had any parvo cases this year, part of the reason we agreed to take so many puppies back with us. But we had her now, so we set about the usual protocol. But by the time we arrived to the vet, she had progressed downhill so quickly, we had to let her go. It was so incredibly hard. Carrie was the sixth puppy we had lost this year to parvo, something we had never experienced more than once in a year.
But the bad news ended there. A week later, Magnolia has really come out of her shell. I'm puppysitting her and her foster siblings for the weekend. She is so obedient and smart, and eager to have her head scratched and be told she's a good girl. Our little Jose has even come a long way, too. On Wednesday, he started interacting with the smaller dogs without bribery, and today, he even let the bigger dogs sniff him without soiling himself. Rita (the other Chihuahua we took) is doing awesome. I even took her on the radio show with me on Monday where everyone said she is not the typical Chi. She still doesn't like to be with the big dogs, but she does fine with Jose. The Golden pups are still taking some extra care; Tigger is more confident and comes to me at feeding time while Pooh still runs to hide behind the Dogloo. Both have joined in the pack play time in the dog yard and enjoy romps in the puppy pool. Charlotte (pug puppy) and Bluebelle (border collie mix puppy) love getting attention at feeding time, particularly biting at my ankles until I take a moment to hold each of them. And little Samantha (the Shepherd pup) really showed me just how smart and determined a pup she is by finding ways out of her kennel and the dog yard, earning her a spot inside until her relocation to another foster home.
While these all feel like great rescues for us, I'm more amazed by the wildlife rescue I got to do on Monday. I don't remember the last time I was involved in one, but this sure wasn't a phone call I was expecting.
My nutritionist and chiropractor called me while I was on the radio. I called him back when we were finished. He wanted to know what to do about a momma opossum and her babies that had been hit by a car. I told him some people to look up, including animal control. He called me back that he had found a woman on Wilmington Island who said she would take them for rehabilitation if he could get them to a specific vet. I gave him some tips on what to do and how, and proceeded to run my morning in-town errands before heading back to the ranch. He called back about ten minutes later and said he was too nervous to do it. So I drove over and met him. You could hear the gasps of the babies that had gotten separated from their mom. I have never seen opossum babies before, but they were so tiny, I thought they were newborns. We picked up the scattered babies first and put them in the box. Then I threw two towels over mom, picked her up gently from both sides and placed her in the box. We did another walk through to check for babies before he headed to the vet with them. I immediately called mom to tell her... her first question: "You aren't taking them home with you, are you?" Yes, there are some critters I know I can't help, but it's nice to know there are others that can.
While I love Wendy dearly, I will be the first to tell you she is not a morning person. She is also not someone who will help keep you awake on an early morning drive. She woke up about 20 minutes from our destination when I stopped at a McDonald's in Columbia for a potty break.
I had no idea how rural this shelter was we were going to. I have been to lots of shelters around Georgia, Florida, South Carolina and even the ASPCA in New York. But when we drove up, all I could think was "wow, this really makes Chatham County look good." But what met us on the outside was complete deception.
Normally, the shelter is closed on the weekends, but staff and volunteers come in to take care of the pets and arrange for out-of-area rescues to give reprieves for death row puppies. We were amazed at the friendliness and interaction the folks made with us and the animals. One person took to getting our paperwork ready while Wendy and I went to meet other pets. We were so heartbroken; so many good looking dogs and cats and we only came for three. We watched puppies run together and play in their pool; adult dogs grouped together for play as well. Kittens shared two dog runs where they could climb and be kittens; adult cats napped on top of the runs. With so little given to them, this staff has really done so much.
After thirty minutes, it was apparent we were not headed back to Savannah with just three pups. We contemplated the exact arrangement of crates in the SUV and how we could get everyone back safely and comfortably.
Wendy and I both fell for this beautiful white retriever girl. Wendy said it; I told her we needed to wait and see what else was available, knowing full well we'd be taking her back with us. But Wendy wouldn't let up; she really wanted the retriever. I saw a couple of puppies that caught my eye; they were all so cute, how could you just pick out a couple, but two really struck me. One was a pug/bulldog puppy. It wasn't just her face that struck me, but her fearlessness with the pack. I couldn't resist her. And then there was a carbon-copy of Wendy's beloved Blue, which we later named Bluebelle. And then there was this quiet little puppy in the back of another pen. She caught both our eyes. I picked her up and noticed a little bit of clear discharge from her nose. We figured it was just the start of kennel cough, so decided to keep her separate from the others.
We thought we were done, until a staff member pointed us to two Chihuahuas. They had been seized from a local dog fighting ring. It made me sick to see them, covered in fleas and cowering in the back of the crate. The brindle one was closest to us. He had his head bent down, almost as if he was ashamed for the way he looked. I asked the staff person if she had held him. She said he did fine though he shivered a lot. Behind him was a white pint-sized Chihuahua (the brindle was larger than standard breed size). I asked for a towel to keep my hands from being bit as I reached in to grab the brindle Chi. He did just as the staff member said; I placed him in Wendy's arms and went to get the other one. Just as I entered my hand into the cage, he snapped, an obvious reaction to the life he had been living. I shook my head, knowing we didn't have a place to work with one that had been taken that far away from a loving companion. I told the staff I was sorry, but we would take the brindle one, which we named Jose Cuervo.
So while the staff went to finding all the additional paperwork for the the additional five canines we decided to rescue, I took to getting all the crates rearranged and ready for our long journey home. We left nearly an hour later than I had planned, but Wendy and I both felt great about what we had just done. She even offered to take the retriever (we named Magnolia) home with her. I joked that her husband was going to divorce her, but I knew he'd be just as big a sucker for her as we were.
We drove an hour to Manning, SC, picking up our canine hitchhiker and made good time to get back to the ranch. Wendy took to bathing puppies while I prepped kennels and crates. All puppies settled in after a good meal, and I began uploading photos and descriptions to start adoption promotion.
Throughout the night, I kept an eye on Carrie, the only puppy that seemed a little under the weather. I started her on Clavamox we had left over from other puppies, resolving to get her to the vet the next afternoon. But by the time I had returned from the radio show at 9:30, she had already vomited. I couldn't believe it. This shelter had not had any parvo cases this year, part of the reason we agreed to take so many puppies back with us. But we had her now, so we set about the usual protocol. But by the time we arrived to the vet, she had progressed downhill so quickly, we had to let her go. It was so incredibly hard. Carrie was the sixth puppy we had lost this year to parvo, something we had never experienced more than once in a year.
But the bad news ended there. A week later, Magnolia has really come out of her shell. I'm puppysitting her and her foster siblings for the weekend. She is so obedient and smart, and eager to have her head scratched and be told she's a good girl. Our little Jose has even come a long way, too. On Wednesday, he started interacting with the smaller dogs without bribery, and today, he even let the bigger dogs sniff him without soiling himself. Rita (the other Chihuahua we took) is doing awesome. I even took her on the radio show with me on Monday where everyone said she is not the typical Chi. She still doesn't like to be with the big dogs, but she does fine with Jose. The Golden pups are still taking some extra care; Tigger is more confident and comes to me at feeding time while Pooh still runs to hide behind the Dogloo. Both have joined in the pack play time in the dog yard and enjoy romps in the puppy pool. Charlotte (pug puppy) and Bluebelle (border collie mix puppy) love getting attention at feeding time, particularly biting at my ankles until I take a moment to hold each of them. And little Samantha (the Shepherd pup) really showed me just how smart and determined a pup she is by finding ways out of her kennel and the dog yard, earning her a spot inside until her relocation to another foster home.
While these all feel like great rescues for us, I'm more amazed by the wildlife rescue I got to do on Monday. I don't remember the last time I was involved in one, but this sure wasn't a phone call I was expecting.
My nutritionist and chiropractor called me while I was on the radio. I called him back when we were finished. He wanted to know what to do about a momma opossum and her babies that had been hit by a car. I told him some people to look up, including animal control. He called me back that he had found a woman on Wilmington Island who said she would take them for rehabilitation if he could get them to a specific vet. I gave him some tips on what to do and how, and proceeded to run my morning in-town errands before heading back to the ranch. He called back about ten minutes later and said he was too nervous to do it. So I drove over and met him. You could hear the gasps of the babies that had gotten separated from their mom. I have never seen opossum babies before, but they were so tiny, I thought they were newborns. We picked up the scattered babies first and put them in the box. Then I threw two towels over mom, picked her up gently from both sides and placed her in the box. We did another walk through to check for babies before he headed to the vet with them. I immediately called mom to tell her... her first question: "You aren't taking them home with you, are you?" Yes, there are some critters I know I can't help, but it's nice to know there are others that can.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
From Making Waves to Making Mom and Dad Proud
My dad always did say I never knew when to keep my mouth shut. For the most part, he's right. But what I've come to find out is that too many people keep their mouths shut when they shouldn't. So, I guess that's where I come in.
For the last week, I've been working to help a family through the process of shutting down a breeder. It's taken a lot of phone calls, press releases, blog postings, and just general email writings to get stuff done. But now the Department of Agriculture is investigating, the CKC is reviewing and possibly issuing a license suspension, and the Tell-N-Sell finally called me today to say they would consider removing the breeder's ads and banning him from their paper. So maybe my big mouth can be productive.
So where does this come in with making Mom and Dad proud? Two nights ago, FOX 28 had me on as a guest to talk about the problems with purchasing puppies from classified ads or at the flea market. I had been out to see my parents earlier in the evening to do adoptions for four of their foster kittens. I told them to tune in if they wanted, that I would be on at 10. My parents usually don't see my TV appearances because they are normally from 5 to 9 am, when my parents are sleeping. But as I arrived home from the studio a little after 11, my phone rang, showing "Mom" on the caller id. She called to tell me that they were proud of me, that I composed myself very well, even with an uncooperative puppy in my lap, and that I looked very nice in my suit. Wow. I'm 29 years old and I can count on less than two hands how many times my parents have actually told me they are proud of me. It's something I strive very hard to achieve, and really makes my day (or night) when I hear those words.
For the last week, I've been working to help a family through the process of shutting down a breeder. It's taken a lot of phone calls, press releases, blog postings, and just general email writings to get stuff done. But now the Department of Agriculture is investigating, the CKC is reviewing and possibly issuing a license suspension, and the Tell-N-Sell finally called me today to say they would consider removing the breeder's ads and banning him from their paper. So maybe my big mouth can be productive.
So where does this come in with making Mom and Dad proud? Two nights ago, FOX 28 had me on as a guest to talk about the problems with purchasing puppies from classified ads or at the flea market. I had been out to see my parents earlier in the evening to do adoptions for four of their foster kittens. I told them to tune in if they wanted, that I would be on at 10. My parents usually don't see my TV appearances because they are normally from 5 to 9 am, when my parents are sleeping. But as I arrived home from the studio a little after 11, my phone rang, showing "Mom" on the caller id. She called to tell me that they were proud of me, that I composed myself very well, even with an uncooperative puppy in my lap, and that I looked very nice in my suit. Wow. I'm 29 years old and I can count on less than two hands how many times my parents have actually told me they are proud of me. It's something I strive very hard to achieve, and really makes my day (or night) when I hear those words.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Coping with Parvovirus in Rescue
It has been a very rough year for us with dealing with parvo puppies. Five litters so far have come in having picked up the virus from on the streets or at their animal control shelters. We don't usually see so many litters with parvo cases in just a few short months. But this morning, we lost our fourth pup of the year to the virus. Davidson had been at the ER vet overnight along with his littermate, Phoebe. We sent them and Marley to our regular vet for continued treatment, hoping for the best, knowing the worst may come. No matter how many littermates suvive the virus with each treatment, it still tears me up each time I lose one.
Why does this keep happening? Why do we keep getting sick puppies? Well, let's start off with the number one reason: people are not spaying and neutering their animals. It's not a difficult concept to grasp, and low-cost spay options are available, espcially through our local SNAC clinic. But why aren't people doing this? Profits from puppy sales, long-held beliefs that spaying is cruel, and men who are insecure about their manhood refusing to allow their male pets to be neutered.
Past the obvious reason, what else is there? Moms that are not properly vaccinated have no immunities to pass on to their babies. We saw a case just a week ago of a purebred puppy bought from a CKC registered breeder that died from parvovirus. If mom was properly immunized and the puppies properly vaccinated as the family had been promised, then there should have been no issue. Even after having been notified about the parvo puppy, the breeder sold the remaining eight puppies (an independent third party called over the weekend to check).
So we have the problems with reproduction and negligent care. What's left? The external environment in which the pups are raised. All our puppies come from local animal control shelters. These shelters are several decades old in most cases and completely run down. Only routine maintenance is done, and most cleaning methods are ineffective as the buildings harbour viruses so well. Add to that a climate that never experiences a hard freeze to kill parasites.
Our job as rescuers is to save as many lives as possible. We know the risks with accepting puppies, but our choice is to either accept that risk or stop taking them at all. At this point, we have over $1,000 in vet bills for the three puppies that started aggressive treatments last night. So while we are diligently trying to give them a second chance at life, the costs to do so mean we can't accept other pets that will also need care.
So we push on, praying for the survival of our pups and hoping people will stop purchasing pets that fuel these profit-seeking breeders and instead look.
*Donations are very much in need right now. Every little bit makes a difference. Please consider making a donation towards our puppies today.*
Monday, May 26, 2008
Newspaper and Online Puppy Sale Ads Bring Heartbreak
Every child should be blessed to know the joys of raising a puppy, the fun of learning to play, the warmth and softness of puppy fur, and the pleasing aroma of puppy breath.
But for those buying puppies from ads in newspapers, classified papers, and online sites such as Craigslist.com, that happiness is either a long-time taking or never experienced.
This past Thursday, Coastal Pet Rescue released information to local media to warn consumers of a breeder selling puppies with Parvovirus. The breeder, Roy Newsome, is also a local businessman.
The owner of Newsome Enterprises normally makes his living selling trailers and signs from his store and website, UncleRoys.com. A local family saw Mr. Newsome's ad in the local Tell-N-Sell for CKC registered Rottweiler puppies.
The Lanes went to get their puppy, Bubba, from Mr. Newsome. They were told the puppies, five males and four females, had seen the vet twice and had two dewormings. After paying $400 and receiving the CKC registration papers, the Lanes left to enjoy their new life with Bubba.
But Bubba didn't feel well. He wouldn't play, and became very lethargic. The Lanes thought he was depressed, having been separated from his mom and littermates. But on the morning of May 21st, Bubba began to vomit, and the Lanes immediately rushed him to the vet, where he was diagnosed with hookworms and parvovirus, which is often fatal to puppies.
The Lanes never received any actual paperwork to prove veterinary care, nor were they ever shown a Georgia Department of Agriculture license which regulates pet breeders.
The Lanes notified Mr. Newsome and went back to get a refund. When the family returned to the point of sale, Mr. Newsome refused to come meet with the family members, instead sending his daughter out the front door with the refund.
The Lanes were hopeful that Bubba would pull through, but sadly, his body gave in and he passed on Sunday morning, May 25th.
The Lanes have notified the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the CKC, and the Savannah Business Bureau in the hopes of getting Mr. Newsome shut down. They are still in mourning for little Bubba and hope no other families will fall prey to puppy sale ads.
Stories like these are not unheard of in our work. Mostly, we hear about them from people purchasing puppies at the local flea market. As long as people are dead-set on having a "purebred" puppy, these breeders will keep selling. There are plenty of puppies available through local animal shelters and rescues. An estimated 40% of animals in rescues and shelters are purebred. But it isn't a specific breed that makes a good dog; it's the unconditional love and excitement a puppy (or even adult and senior dog) brings to its new family. All it takes is for a person to stop being superficial and give a pup a second chance.
But for those buying puppies from ads in newspapers, classified papers, and online sites such as Craigslist.com, that happiness is either a long-time taking or never experienced.
This past Thursday, Coastal Pet Rescue released information to local media to warn consumers of a breeder selling puppies with Parvovirus. The breeder, Roy Newsome, is also a local businessman.
The owner of Newsome Enterprises normally makes his living selling trailers and signs from his store and website, UncleRoys.com. A local family saw Mr. Newsome's ad in the local Tell-N-Sell for CKC registered Rottweiler puppies. The Lanes went to get their puppy, Bubba, from Mr. Newsome. They were told the puppies, five males and four females, had seen the vet twice and had two dewormings. After paying $400 and receiving the CKC registration papers, the Lanes left to enjoy their new life with Bubba.
But Bubba didn't feel well. He wouldn't play, and became very lethargic. The Lanes thought he was depressed, having been separated from his mom and littermates. But on the morning of May 21st, Bubba began to vomit, and the Lanes immediately rushed him to the vet, where he was diagnosed with hookworms and parvovirus, which is often fatal to puppies.
The Lanes never received any actual paperwork to prove veterinary care, nor were they ever shown a Georgia Department of Agriculture license which regulates pet breeders.
The Lanes notified Mr. Newsome and went back to get a refund. When the family returned to the point of sale, Mr. Newsome refused to come meet with the family members, instead sending his daughter out the front door with the refund.
The Lanes were hopeful that Bubba would pull through, but sadly, his body gave in and he passed on Sunday morning, May 25th.
The Lanes have notified the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the CKC, and the Savannah Business Bureau in the hopes of getting Mr. Newsome shut down. They are still in mourning for little Bubba and hope no other families will fall prey to puppy sale ads.
Stories like these are not unheard of in our work. Mostly, we hear about them from people purchasing puppies at the local flea market. As long as people are dead-set on having a "purebred" puppy, these breeders will keep selling. There are plenty of puppies available through local animal shelters and rescues. An estimated 40% of animals in rescues and shelters are purebred. But it isn't a specific breed that makes a good dog; it's the unconditional love and excitement a puppy (or even adult and senior dog) brings to its new family. All it takes is for a person to stop being superficial and give a pup a second chance.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Savannah Chief of Police Believes Animal Welfare "is Not a Priority"
I just left a Buy Local Savannah lunch where Chief Berkow was the speaker. I asked him in front of everyone what changes were in store to increase animal control's ability to respond to animal cruelty, neglect and dog fighting cases. His exact words in front of the entire audience were, "it's not a priority to this community." So basically, we're fighting a losing battle. He also doesn't believe they should have a shelter or be dealing with adoptions. He specifically said he attempted to work with the Humane Society here but they would not cooperate. I'm sick of this. No matter how much media, how many times we go before city council or county commission, the people who have the power to make change don't care to.
Needless to say, my blood has been boiling. A group of concerned citizens met with Chief Berkow late last year about their concerns and promises were made about changes to come. I haven't noticed any changes. Three years ago, the county allocated funds to build a new animal control shelter that would accommodate for the increasing intakes as well as reduce the spread of disease. I was working at animal control last spring when the architects came by and had been to see shelters in other areas of Georgia. But I still don't see even a hint of construction.
Chief Berkow was very proud to talk about the three new trucks they bought for the officers. Wouldn't that money have been better spent to increase training for the current officers and hire more to handle the number of calls? He claims he doesn't know anything about any dog fighting calls that haven't been responded to. Funny, because I helped someone late last year compile lots of documentation of the number of times the police department and animal control were called about pit puppies and suspected fighting. No one ever came, so we went to the GBI and Georgia Sheriff's Association, and the other person documenting made calls to the ABC national news outlet. The next day, two members of city council, animal control officers, and a few police officers finally showed up. The dogs were impounded. The owner had just gotten out of jail for murder. The house was actually abandoned and had been condemned. Weapons were found inside the house along with other items. So what happened? The guy was issued community service through animal control, and was told he could have his dogs back. On the last day of the community service, he was arrested for manslaughter. The puppies were not allowed to be released until the owner signed them over, so they sat for several months growing up in the small cages in the puppy side of animal control. By the time they were released, the rescues that offered to take them initially no longer had the room available for them. So yes, I could see how dogfighting is not a concern of our community. We're more than happy to have murderers live among us without them being bothered by police.
I'm absolutely frustrated with animal control in Savannah right now. I will be more than happy to give kudos to Lt. Bouleware for hiring an excellent shelter director who has made so many positive changes with the very little he was given, and I'll extend the kudos to the ladies at the shelter who give their all to try and keep the animals comfortable and as healthy as best they can. But when will there be more officers on the street? How many times does a person have to call about illegal tethering or neglectful conditions before anything is ever done? When will someone be able to call on the weekends and not be told there is nothing that can be done until Monday? What about an actual animal cruelty investigator as other counties in Georgia have? Or even an actual prosecution team that can get jail time for violators instead of just community service hours at the animal control shelter?
Just what is it going to take to get our city's leadership to give a damn about animal welfare in our community???
Needless to say, my blood has been boiling. A group of concerned citizens met with Chief Berkow late last year about their concerns and promises were made about changes to come. I haven't noticed any changes. Three years ago, the county allocated funds to build a new animal control shelter that would accommodate for the increasing intakes as well as reduce the spread of disease. I was working at animal control last spring when the architects came by and had been to see shelters in other areas of Georgia. But I still don't see even a hint of construction.
Chief Berkow was very proud to talk about the three new trucks they bought for the officers. Wouldn't that money have been better spent to increase training for the current officers and hire more to handle the number of calls? He claims he doesn't know anything about any dog fighting calls that haven't been responded to. Funny, because I helped someone late last year compile lots of documentation of the number of times the police department and animal control were called about pit puppies and suspected fighting. No one ever came, so we went to the GBI and Georgia Sheriff's Association, and the other person documenting made calls to the ABC national news outlet. The next day, two members of city council, animal control officers, and a few police officers finally showed up. The dogs were impounded. The owner had just gotten out of jail for murder. The house was actually abandoned and had been condemned. Weapons were found inside the house along with other items. So what happened? The guy was issued community service through animal control, and was told he could have his dogs back. On the last day of the community service, he was arrested for manslaughter. The puppies were not allowed to be released until the owner signed them over, so they sat for several months growing up in the small cages in the puppy side of animal control. By the time they were released, the rescues that offered to take them initially no longer had the room available for them. So yes, I could see how dogfighting is not a concern of our community. We're more than happy to have murderers live among us without them being bothered by police.
I'm absolutely frustrated with animal control in Savannah right now. I will be more than happy to give kudos to Lt. Bouleware for hiring an excellent shelter director who has made so many positive changes with the very little he was given, and I'll extend the kudos to the ladies at the shelter who give their all to try and keep the animals comfortable and as healthy as best they can. But when will there be more officers on the street? How many times does a person have to call about illegal tethering or neglectful conditions before anything is ever done? When will someone be able to call on the weekends and not be told there is nothing that can be done until Monday? What about an actual animal cruelty investigator as other counties in Georgia have? Or even an actual prosecution team that can get jail time for violators instead of just community service hours at the animal control shelter?
Just what is it going to take to get our city's leadership to give a damn about animal welfare in our community???
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