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Bear has the forever family of her dreams! (August 2010)
I want to thank Laura Miller for letting us adopt Bear (formerly Ilsa). She has grown into an awesome German Shepherd!!!! She definitely adds excitement to our loves and has filled a giant hole in my heart since the passing of my other shepherd Blue. One of Bear's favorite activities is chasing an popping bubbles. She's silly. Thank you again for everything that all you wonderful people do at CARE.
Amy |
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Lazy Daisy has found her furever home!! (August 2010)
Daisy is a love and pure joy to have in our lives; since coming to live with us she has learned to speak, stay, lay, shake, & fetch/retrieve. Daisy should have been born a Lab because she LOVES the water - there is no hesitation! Daisy loves cats but has a hard time understanding why they don't love her (yet) !! Daisy and her fur brother (Gunny) seem to have known eachother from the start and my kids adore her!! Thank you to everyone at CARE !!! xoxoxo |
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Tika takes herself for a walk! (August 2010)
I just wanted to let you know that Tika is doing fine and we continue to enjoy her good company. I attach a photo of her doing one of her favorite little funny tricks. She got such laughter when she first gathered up her leash and walked herself around the nature center we often visit, that she has been doing it ever since with great enthusiasm. Also a photo of us at a nearby lake.
We took her to a puppy agility and confidence class. She was such a star at all the games! This comes naturally to her and she loved the class. Next we need to improve her "good manners" enough to pass the Canine Good Citizenship test. That is harder, for she is pretty excitable, and loses focus, and we are not consistant enough. But we are all learning and having fun together.
Best,
Annie |
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Otis has his forever family! (July 2010)
Meet the "Big O!" Otis has had a fabulous first month with his new people! After being with us for only four days.. we all headed out on the typical American family vacation, two kids and a dog, mini van and car top carrier. It gave our new little traveler a great opportunity to get to know his new family. Otis spent time in Vermont, NY and Emerald Isle, NC. He loved the sand and playing on the beach. Our children (and their parents) adore their new dog and he is officially ours! Many thanks to CARE (and Ms. Laura) for helping to bring Otis home. |
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CiCi, the stealthy cheese snatcher! (July 2010)
Gotta tell you a funny story.
I thought we saw a mouse run across the kitchen floor morning before last so he put down one of those glue traps baited with cheese. It was in a kind of inaccessible place anyway and I moved the trash can over to further block it from C. I'm sure you know that she moves quickly and quietly so when I heard something in the kitchen when I thought she was with me, I was sure I'd caught the mouse. Well, when I got to the kitchen, there was CiCi with the glue trap barely sticking to her chin whiskers looking guilty as all get out!
It came off easily but that little stinker had moved that trash can to get to HER cheese!
You told me she wouldn't be the same little dog we first met and you were certainly right but she's so much more fun now!
Jan |
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Parker is the best buddy ever! (July 2010)
Parker is a better dog than we could have hoped for. He's travelled quite a bit since we adopted him. He's been to Ohio and camping in the mountains. He especially loves digging in the sand when we're at the beach. Thanks again for all that you do, C.A.R.E. |
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Cody Bear is a friend to all! (July 2010)
We can't thank CARE enough for allowing us to adopt Cody Bear! The posting on the CARE website described him as equal parts sweet and smart. Nothing could be more true. He is so kind to our kitties that he will even allow them to eat out of his bowl. He absolutely loves his grandma and grandpa and best friend (rescue dog Ginger) with whom he spends his days. He is an excellent traveller and has attended several horse shows, where he charmed everyone with his good manners and by offering a paw to new people that he meets. He gets very excited when he sees the "Canine Camper" being loaded into the car, because he knows he is off on another adventure. Many thanks to Deborah for giving him such a great start and for allowing us to have this wonderful dog in our lives. |
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Abbie is a Diva! (July 2010)
Not a person in the world loves a dog as much as we love this little girl. She is exactly where she needs to be. |
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Sammi is super! (July 2010)
It has been a while since my last update. Sammi entered our lives just last October. She was a second dog for us. A very wise decision. Owning a second dog not only fufills our lives even further but gives her sister Emmi, a good friend and best buddy. Sammi is a funloving wimsical dog who is eager to please. She and Emmi are well traveled and have been to the beach and mountains many times. Sammi is so alert that she warns us of nearing wildlife. Both girls love to go out on our boat and swim in the lake. They love to take long walks which encourages my own personal exercise regiment. We can go up to 4 miles daily with my girls at my side. Sammi loves to wear clothing although not a girly girl, it's just about that these things belong to her! (Mine, mine, all mine)
I would strongly encourage others to adopt a rescue, save a life and do so with CARE. They are the best organization that I have encountered. Sammi came to me completely trained by her foster Mom. Now, she is completely spoiled by me! I love my girls!
Sandy |
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Super-fabulous Sadie! (July 2010)
I adopted Sadie in early July, and now can't imagine my home without her! She's settling in wonderfully, and is enjoying lots of belly rubs and a well-stocked toy basket. Often she'll bring out several different toys and arrange them around her on the living room rug - just in case she changes her mind about her choice mid-chew. She's started to make friends with other dogs in the neighborhood and recently visited Jordan Lake with one of her doggy pals, where we discovered that she loves meandering around in the shallows. Everyone she meets comments on what a sweet (if a little shy, at first) temperament she has, and on her uniquely expressive - and adorably asymmetrical - ears. She is truly a joy, so affectionate and devoted, and I'm so grateful to Laura and to CARE for making this adoption possible and for all the great work they do.
Abigail |
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Ruby and Sasha, BFF's for life! (July 2010)
We are sending this belated THANK YOU to C.A.R.E. for our April 2009 adoption of two 3-month-old sister puppies, Ruby (formerly Rosalee) and Sasha (formerly Alice). We can't imagine life without these two bundles of joy anymore. My husband, who has had dogs his whole life says that Ruby is "the dog love of his life." Our daughter has that same special bond with Sasha, and it is priceless to watch.
Though it wasn't easy to train two dogs at the same time, we appreciate and respect C.A.R.E. for letting us adopt both dogs at the same time. Not only do both dogs know all of their basic commands, they also can also jump, stand, and get the newspaper for us in the morning (the best one of all when you're sleepy)! One of the best parts of having sisters Ruby and Sasha is their interaction together. The LOVE each other and are best buddies. There is never any fighting for alpha dog as we are alpha, so they are free to play, which they do endlessly. They have a bond being sisters that is so fun to watch and we feel privileged being able to see it day to day. We've enclosed a photo that captures just how close Ruby and Sasha are (we didn't pose it, this is just how they are; and, check out the tail wag). Though they've grown a bit since the photo, they are still best buddies and will be forever thanks to C.A.R.E.
Kathleen, Steve, and Tesia |
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Two kittens are tons of fun, two are better than one! (July 2010)
After Maxwelhouse my Maine Coon male cat of 14 years passed due to kidney disease I was so lonesome I could hardly stand it. Never in my lfe had I gone that long without kitties in my home and now my best friend and conversationalist was gone.It was just way too quiet and empty. That lasted for 2 months hefore I met Fluffer and Skeeter (not their original names)who were CARE kittens waiting patiently for their forever home. Fluffer came right up to me and with his very special cute face similar to Maxwelhouse's meowed at me. He looked like he was asking me to pick him up. So, I did just that and gave him lots of kisses and hugs. He picked me out and I think we both knew right away that he would be my special kitty friend. Fluffer is a brown patched mackeral tabby Maine Coon mix and I know he understands every word I say to him.
That same day I had met Skeeter at Pet Smart during one of CARE's adoption events. He was about 4 weeks younger than Fluffer and tiny with geay and white soft fur that looked to be medium length. He had a skinny little tail which became fluffed out several months later. In fact, ALL of his fur fluffed out and now he is double coated with fur. Both of these boys hit it off immediately at their first meeting. They are bonded together as if they were true brothers. They sleep together, play together and eat together. Yet, each is his own little man with his own special qualities and sweetnesses. These are fabulous loving and funny kitties that make every day worth getting up just to kiss and hug. Maxwelhouse would have loved them too. |
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Sophie, this shy gal is coming around! (July 2010)
Attached are a few of my favorite photos of Sophie. She continues to enjoy her new home and continues to show progress. She has begun to come up to me on an occasion and let me reach down and pet her. We have added Bueller to our pack and I think that has helped. He is a very outgoing and loving Chihuahua mix. He loves affection and I think Sophie is now seeing that it is indeed a good thing.
The pictures show her doing what she loves best….gigging for frogs in our small pond. She occasionally takes a dip by accident but climbs out and is back at it without missing a beat. She has also discovered turtles and thinks they are a delicacy.
Sophie completed her Basic Obedience Class. She did real well. She came to want to have her leash put on at the gate so she could go out and explore beyond the fence. She also tolerates riding in the car now. She knows the basic commands but generally only cooperates when on a leash or waiting for treats. By the end of class she had stopped having her tail tucked between her legs but had it relaxed by her back legs. Hopefully with the next class she will raise her tail and enjoy it even more.
Michael and I took the 3 small dogs to Yorktown on Sunday afternoon. They all 3 walked well on their leashes and Sophie stayed close to my side but she willingly let my husband Michael pet her when we stopped to rest in the shade on the grass. |
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Gertie is living the good life! (July 2010)
I thought you might like an update on how Gertie is doing. She is spending the summer with me on Lake Michigan and loves the beach and even is learning to swim! (with a doggy life jacket, of course.) She is so happy and is a joy have as a companion. She runs with me every morning. Jim and I swear she can laugh. I have sent along a picture taken last weekend. Hope all is well with you.
Becky |
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Aidan has found his playful palace! (July 2010)
Aidan (formerly Mickey) is such a sweet and cuddly little thing! We are so honored to have him be a part of our family and love that he loves to follow us around the house wherever we go! Even though he is as gentle as he can be, he can definitely play with his toys like no other! See a picture attached of Aidan after he has had a long play session and found a cluster of pillows to fall asleep in! |
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Sweet Dreams Eli! (July 2010)
Boy! Have I got it made!! I came to my "forever home" after being found all skinny and starved. Now I run the house. I'm "top dog" (or at least I think I am). Look at me...........I'm fat and lazy sleeping on the couch at the beach house. |
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Ozzy & Miley, a CARE pair! :) (July 2010)
All is well here! OzMan and Miley are HOT HOT HOT but are getting along fine in the heat. We shaved OzMan about a month ago and will do it again soon. He is so much cooler that way. He loves to go in the back yard and jump in his little pool. Miley avoids it at all costs... silly girl. She should learn a lesson from OzMan on staying cool. OzMan remains calm and has gotten very very good about being around people. We had a Fourth of July party and he let my friend hold him most of the evening. He was very happy. He is usually not content when anyone outside the family tries to hold him, but he did well. He's more easy going every day that he's here. We are the luckiest family on earth to have such wonderful doggies :) |
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Dog missing 7 months reunites with family (July 2010)
Some say it’s a miracle. Others label it a great stroke of good fortune. Whatever else the curious case of Katie may be, Chatham Animal Rescue and Education (CARE) in Chatham County said the little dog’s return to its owners after a long absence is unprecedented in the agency’s 20-year history.
Katie, a Chihuahua/Feist mix, was reunited with her family after disappearing almost seven months ago. The fiancé of the family’s son was looking to adopt a dog and was conducting a search on Petfinder.com when she ran across a picture of Katie posted by CARE under the name of Sasha. She had her fiance take a look at the picture and called his mom to share his suspicions that this could be long-lost Katie. Mom, Pam Ard, immediately contacted CARE.
Katie disappeared from the Ard family home on Christmas night 2009. The family searched for Katie around the many acres of farm and forest around their home to no avail. Due to Katie’s age they thought maybe she had wandered off to die. But the family was haunted by thoughts of what could have happened to Katie.
Meanwhile, in early January, CARE volunteer Melissa Taylor, a foster caregiver, was called by Chatham County Animal Shelter’s personnel. It was the last day the shelter could hold an older Chihuahua mix that had been turned into them as a stray. They knew Taylor had a soft spot for fostering older dogs. Taylor picked up Katie from the shelter and has fostered her in her home ever since.
Katie was examined by a veterinarian and estimated to be about 9 years old. Additionally, she had an irregular heartbeat. Potential adopters were interested in Katie, but ultimately the people didn’t want to take on the commitment of adopting a dog with health issues. Taylor and her family were prepared to keep Katie in the event she was never adopted.
After getting home from work and receiving Pam Ard’s message, Taylor arranged to meet with the Ard family first thing the next morning. It was the moment of truth. Was Sasha indeed Katie?
Katie didn’t offer a lot of emotion at the reunion, so there were a few minutes of comparing pictures the Ards brought, and scars and bumps on Katie. The family also had Katie’s littermate, Missy, with them. It didn’t take long to determine that Sasha was indeed Katie. And the biggest shocker, Katie is 20 years old. The reunion was emotional to say the least — everyone was in tears. Pam Ard called her son to let him know Katie was found.
The family is thrilled to have Katie back and is extremely appreciative for all CARE — and especially Taylor — did for her. “Melissa was truly Katie’s guardian angel,” Pam Ard said. “I have no doubt that divine intervention brought Katie back home to us. Katie isn’t our pet; she and Missy are our family. A lot of love and joy has been received from those two little four-legged blessings during their twenty years!”
Once they were back home, Katie immediately visited each of her favorite places to lie down and then she and Missy snuggled up in the dog bed together and sniffed and licked each other. They were a little slow to recognize each other when first reunited, but it was all coming back now.
CARE had Katie micro-chipped, as is routine with fosters. The Ard family plans to have all of their pets micro-chipped and will no longer allow the dogs to go outside unattended.
Karen Sirls of Chatham Animal Rescue Education contributed to this story.
By Valerie Broadway |
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Topper is tons of fun! (July 2010)
I thought I'd send you a quick email to let you know how Topper isadjusting. He is doing really great, and just a bundle of energy! He issuch a sweet little guy, and is constantly happy. He absolutely lovesDottie and Odie. There has been a little adjusting with them having to getused to him being here and staying, but they all are adjusting quite well.Yesterday morning it took them a little bit to warm up to each other.Topper was ready to play immediately, but Dottie and Odie weren't quitesure, but it didn't take long for them to go right back to play mode. Theypretty much play non-stop, except for the occasional rest break. Thismorning, they were all excited to get out of bed and started playing withoutany hesitation. We've taken him on a few walks and trying to build up his energy/stamina,and he does great. He is right up front with Dottie and Odie and ready toexplore the new area and take it all in. As you can see from the pictures,he quickly found the toy basket with all the dog toys and loves to toss themaround, squeak them and play tug of war with Odie. He definitely holds hisown as he has won the tug of war match a few times! We absolutely love him and so glad to have he's home with us and a part ofour family. We have an appointment with our vet this Friday for him just to get them tomeet him and update their records with his info, and get him on a schedulefor all his puppy needs. We've been able to bandage his front paw, and he'sbeen doing great with keeping it on so we hope it'll heal soon. Thank you so much for all you did for him and we know you took such goodcare of him. We'll send you more updates later, but wanted to let you knowthat he is doing wonderfully and adjusting very well. ~Amy
The volunteers at CARE and the foster parent of Topper (formerly Blocker), would like to send a special thanks to Dr. Tysor, of Tysor Vet, in Siler City, who amputated Topper's leg. Dr. Tysor did a wonderful job, we can't thank her enough! |
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Cooper is a camper! (July 2010)
Our family is so grateful to CARE for connecting us with our sweet puppy, Cooper. He is a wonderful companion and enjoys being a part of everything we do. The attached picture is from our spring camping trip, and of course, Cooper came along with us. He was happy to go on hikes with us, relax with us by the campfire, and sleep in the tent with us! He is a fast learner, eager to please, and always happy to see us. It is a wonderful thing to be greeted so enthusiastically by him when you return home. Everyone loves him and we can't picture life without him now! |
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Fun, fabulous Phoebe! (July 2010)
Phoebe has completed our family in so many ways. She is a loyal companion to our entire family, but especially our seven-year old dog, Owen. They enjoy playing together in the backyard, at our local dog park, and on trips to our family farm. Phoebe is 100% good-hearted and wants nothing more than to love and be loved. She is truly a blessing to us, and we can't imagine life without her! |
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Callie is quite the catch! (July 2010)
My family adopted Callie in February of 2010 and we were immediately inseparable. My best friend, Sandy, had passed away at the end of 2009 and I spent most of my time miserably bored. My puppyhood was filled with bad experiences and it left me terrified to everyone except my family. I needed another dog around for camaraderie and safety, and Callie came to us with some nervous tendencies. Together, we can now brave the world. I sit with her during scary thunderstorms and she’s taught me that people are an excellent source of liver treats. When we’re not conquering our fears, we love to chase our house cats, hunt for pens and dirty socks, and chew on each other’s ears. We have fun on even the most mundane of days and I know Callie is very happy in her new home. I’m so grateful to have made such a loving and energetic forever friend, and I know we’ll grow even closer as we grow into adulthood side by side. Coltrane Butters (I am on the right and Ms. Callie is on the left. Aren't we pretty!!) |
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Stephon (AKA MJ) is adored by all! (July 2010)
We just got back from a long vacation at the beach and I have included some pics of MJ (now Stephon). We adore him and feel so lucky he is a part of our family. Hope you are well!
-The Brown Family |
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Roo (AKA April) is the right fit! (July 2010)
Our sweet Roo (formerly April) settled into her new home with us immediately. She loves playtime, and lots of it, and gets along well with our other cat (a girl we had adopted at another shelter and who is about six months older than Roo). Roo is very socialable and always wants to be with us. She greets us at the door, and sleeps with us at night. She enjoys bird-watching, getting brushed, and our company in the kitchen when she is having a bite. Roo, like our other girl, Cricket, brings us much pleasure. And we in turn enjoy making sure that our sweet girls are as happy as can be. Thank you Chatham County CARE and Karen (Roo’s foster mom) for bringing the Roo into our lives! |
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Cassie is oh so happy! (July 2010)
We adopted Cassie, or as we like to call her "Little Casanova", about 2 years ago. Cassie came from a litter of 2 other kittens and I had the pleasure of meeting Cassie and her siblings before they were available for adoption. I fell in love with all 3 of them instantly. Quite the little characters I must say. But we already had a cat and a dog in addition to fostering Golden Retrievers, so we were not even sure we could take on another fulltime pet. But once my husband met the 3 little critters, he too fell in love. Cassie was ours!!! Cassie has brought a great balance to our home especially when it comes to our other foster animals. The foster dogs come to us very scared and often abused, and the first thing they meet is Cassie. This past December we fostered a blind dog (James) who was not born blind, a recent infection had taken his sight only allowing him to see a small amount of light and shadows. Needless to say, he was very curious about the cats. At the time, we were not sure James would be able to adjust to a home with cats. Their sudden bursts of energy and chasing each other around the house greatly confused him. But slowly over time, James would follow Cassie to find his way around the house. And to my excitement, he would find Cassie sleeping on the couch and snuggle up with her. They would stay there for hours. It was amazing! I truly believe Cassie does more to help the dogs adjust to their new environment than my husband or I could ever do for them. She is a gem in our eyes. Our latest adventure is fostering two kittens for C.A.R.E. We knew how affectionate Cassie is with our foster dogs, but cats? Hmmm, this could be tricky. The first few days were as we expected, a lot of hissing. But the past two weeks she has been amazing with them. She cleans them, plays with them, sleeps with them and watches over them to make sure they stay out of trouble. I guess her motherly instincts kicked in. We are so blessed to have such a rock star of a kitty in Cassie and can't thank C.A.R.E. enough for bringing her into our lives! |
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Henry is a happy boy! (July 2010)
Henry is doing great! We have been running and hiking with him to get him exercise and trying to teach him some new tricks (he's halfway to rolling over, and we're trying to get him interested in playing fetch but maybe his surroundings are still too new). He has been eating and drinking and sleeping well, and our cat seems to be warming up to him..she's only testy with him if she doesn't expect to see him when she turns around. He hasn't shown interest in rawhides, but he also hasn't been chewing anything he isn't supposed to chew. Mostly he seems to just be interested in what we are doing and once we sit down, he'll put his head in our laps and his whole body wiggles when we pet him and give him love.
He has some anxiety when it comes to the elevator, but he is getting better. We've spent some time just riding up and down so he gets used to staying calm when the doors open instead of trying to get out at every floor!
I've also brushed his teeth a few times, which he's not a huge fan of, but he tolerates it. We're looking into obedience classes in the area so we can learn how to keep training him.
We are very happy with him and he seems to be happy with us, as far as we can tell. I've attached a few pictures of Henry in his new home. Henry and Ani do sniff noses sometimes, but I couldn't catch it on camera (though I've tried because it's so cute)-- I included the picture of my mom reading in the chair so at least you can see our cat and Henry coexisting peacefully.
I think our trial period isn't quite up yet (2 days left?), but we already consider Henry to be a permanent addition to our family. Please do call if you're in Durham- we'd love for you to see how Henry is doing!
-Jayna (& Louis) |
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Hera is in Heaven! (June 2010)
I just wanted to say thank you to Melissa for chosing us for Hera's forever home. She is doing so well and has really bonded with our other dog, Ruff. Hera is a wonderful dog. She has done very well with potty training and loves to go for her walks every day. When she is not playing with Ruff, she loves to snuggle with one of us (especially our 7 year old son).
Thank you so much for completing our family. She is loved very much.
The LeBrun Family |
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Cooper got his Summer cut! (June 2010)
I just took some new pictures of Cooper (previously Emmett) I wanted to share with you. I took him to the groomers the other day and got him a short haircut for the summer. I think for Cooper it must be liberating to not have all that hair. It is even better for him to have shorter hair during the summer because it will keep him cooler. It is a bonus for me because I can care for his hair much better with it short than long. I know he loves it because he plays more like a puppy now. I love it because he feels so nice, soft and cuddly. He also looks quite handsome in his new hairdo. He seems like a totally new dog. I really like it. I think I will keep his hair short. He is such a joy to have. We are at a good place now. Thanks again for saving his life. He gives so much happiness to everyone he meets. Everyone loves him. For me he is a definite keeper. I love him so much. The joy he gives me is immeasurable. We love to play fetch. He has this one squeaky bone that my mother gave him that is his favorite toy. We could play fetch with that for hours. He has a good assortment of toys to play with. They keep us quite busy. After he plays hard he finds a comfy spot curls up and goes to sleep. If I am up late I will find him already sleeping in his crate. I've made his crate very comfortable for him so he enjoys sleeping there. The one surprising thing I have found out about him is the fact that he likes to sleep late in the morning. If I didn't wake him up at 9 am he would sleep later. When I open the crate door I have to sit and wait for him to get ready to come out. He has to do his grooming and stretching. Then he perks up and comes out and is ready to go out. It still surprises me every day.
Thank you for all your hard work. Always know that what you do matters and is appreciated by me and I know countless others who have been on the receiving end of your good work. Take good care.
Lauren |
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Vegas, a star on the stage of life! (June 2010)
Vegas is a Winner!
Vegas is the happiest pup you have ever seen! We are so grateful to have her in our lives...she came into our hearts when we lost our sweet Cowboy in April. Every day is a new adventure with little Vegas..she's one of a kind!
The Kulick Family |
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Lola is a lovely pup! (June 2010)
When my husband and I first met Lola, a 4 month old black lab mix, back in February 2010, we knew she would be the perfect addition to our family. Lola quickly adjusted to her new home and is now a very playful and lovable 9 month old puppy. Lola just loves people and other dogs, and thrives on being the center of attention. She likes to snuggle next to her mommy and daddy after playing with her toys, and won't miss an opportunity to take a car ride. We have found that Lola loves water and playing in her baby pool has become her favorite activity on a hot day. This summer, Lola will be going to the beach with us for the first time, and we know that she will just love taking walks on the beach and playing in the surf. Lola has brought us so much joy, and we are very blessed to have her.
-Kristin and Cassidy |
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Mae Belle found her forever family! (June 2010)
We adopted Mae Belle in May from the Chatham County Animal Shelter. She was scheduled to be put down, but thanks to friends on Facebook and Twitter, we saved her. She is happy in her new home with her best friend, Lucky, a black pug. Thank you for help saving her life by posting her on your website! |
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Roscoe Rides! (June 2010)
We brought Roscoe home to live with us in January- he is a 9 year old rescue dog that had a previous owner who took very good care of him. I could not have asked for a better dog. From the time he walked in my door he was my family and was right at home. I know most people want to adopt a puppy because they are so cute and tiny, and all of that jazzy stuff- I just have a special place in my heart for all dogs and decided that I wanted Roscoe, from the minute that I saw him on the website... Big Thanks to CARE!!!!!
Now Roscoe has a permanent home where he will always be loved and cherished...
Samantha and Eddie |
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Harper is lovin the summer! (June 2010)
We adopted Harper in March/April 2009 and have loved every minute of life with her!!
The summer photo attached is of her and her daddy, Al Inman at Holden Beach looking over the dock. Of course I'm a proud mom! |
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Tucker is Terrific! (June 2010)
We don’t even know where to begin. We first met Tucker on May 12 (2010), and he was such a friendly and confident little boy-- trotting out from the barn ready to meet us. That first meeting was pretty much love at first sight for us.
We’ve had Tucker with us for almost two weeks now, and he has been a perfect charm. He is such a sweet and happy little puppy at about 7 months and 42 lbs now-- and ever so smart. He’s already learned lots of commands in a relatively short period of time. We have him at the beach with us now, and he loves playing in the water, romping with other dogs, and never tires of running along the surf. Someone who recently met him said to us, “Wow-- he’s great-- looks like you’ve hit the jackpot!” We sure feel that way. We’re just crazy about him. He’s so loving and a wonderful addition to our family. He gets along well with our 16-year old cat, Midnight, too. (Well, sort of. :)
Thanks to CARE, and also to Frances-- who took such good care of Tucker and introduced us to him. He is a joy! ~Diana and Peter |
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Max (formerly Buzz) is a social butterfly! (May 2010)
Max is doing wonderful! He is doing well with commands and is FULL of personality! He is so friendly with other dogs and people. He has several friends in the neighborhood and he recently participated in the SPCA of Wake County dog walk! I have attached a few pictures for you.
Thanks again for rescuing my boy! He is a love!
-Lisa |
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Cooper is super! (May 2010)
Cooper is doing awesome. He is a fast learner and knows quite a few tricks and commands. He loves chasing squirrels and going for walks. He sleeps in bed with either Tyler or Christina and is so happy to curl up next to them.
See you soon!
Laura |
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Jesse LOVES golf carts and his forever family! (May 2010)
I have been meaning to send you and update on Jesse. He is such a wonderful little guy. Now 25 lbs. He enjoys his daily walks and playing in the back yard. But the most fun so far has been our beach trips. He LOVES the beach, splashing in the surf and running in circles through the sand. Where we camp has golf cart rentals and I beleive he would ride until the battery died. A few weeks ago when we went. The people staying beside us had their personal golf cart sitting near where we were setting up camp. He went right over and jumped up on the seat, ready to go. This last trip we made we actually purchased our own cart to use when we are there. We have taken pictures so I will try and forward some of those to you soon. We are certainly blessed by having him in our lives.
Take Care,
Joyce |
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Posie is a bundle of joy! (May 2010)
Posie has brought a lot of joy to our home and family. At first, she was a little nervous around us, but she never acted out, or tried to run away. Now she seems very comfortable with us, and greets us with jumps, hugs, and kisses when we come home. Posie likes to walk with us, go on car trips, and hangout on the couch. She likes the dog park, and she loves hiking with us at Umstead Park. She’s brought so much joy to our lives, we can’t imagine not having her here.
Thomas and Kelly |
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Zoe, chain free and happy! (May 2010)
Zoë had been chained outdoors for most of her short life and had a bad case of heartworms when CARE adopted her. After curing her and settling her in a wonderful half-way house, I was lucky enough to contact CARE at the right time, and the match was made. She is by far the smartest and sweetest dog I've ever had and, although she remains shy with newcomers, we have bonded like crazy and are totally devoted to each other. A Happy Ending indeed!
Michael |
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Mugsy found her mountain man and her forever family! (April 2010)
An underbite like a steam shovel.Four little snaggly teeth, like broken bits of glass, and one dull fang sticking up. The other fang only appears when she is in food mode. Her back is curved and knobby, her front feet too big and her back legs bowed like parentheses. One eye almost closed from forehead wrinkles. One ear twisted like califlower. A malodious odor wafting from both ends. Tongue hanging out when she sleeps. Thats the outside.
On the inside she is gentle and loving, loyal to the point she cries real tears whenever one of her people leaves without her. She wants to sit in your lap (at 45 lbs), and be petted like a baby. She is well mannered with everyone. She only barks when she is chasing rabbits in her sleep, and she wants to ride in every car that leaves the driveway.When she plays she is a big clumsy clown but, not knowing how big she is. she is liable to knock you down in her enthusiam.She follows me around like a hairy shadow. A constant and true friend.
Taken from a bad situation by the good people of Chatham Animal Rescue and Education, in Chatham County, North Carolina. She was treated for eye and ear infections and a bad heartworm infestation, then placed in foster home pending adoption. They then posted her picture, which only a warthog or old mountain men could love, on the internet.That is how we found her. We spent six hours driving, five hundred dollars for fees, supplies,and vet bills, and a couple of weeks convincing her she was part of our family. All of this has been repaid by her companionship and love. A currency worth more than mere money.
Adopt a friend, not a pet, from your local rescue agency. They have a lot to offer and need your help. Lots of thanks to C.A.R.E. and foster mom Melissa for intrusting us with Mugly aka Fiesty. She is up to date on all her shots, heartworm free and has gained back the weight she had lost plus some. She has made herself a big part of our lives. She is so spoiled and happy. Thanks again for the wonderful job you all do.
The Hopkins Family |
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Hannah's Happy Ending (April 2010)
I wanted to send you pictures of her but have had a hard time doing that. She hates to have her picture taken!! In fact, it is getting worse the older she gets.
Hannah is growing by leaps and bounds - she now weighs 42 pounds!!! And just a bundle of love! She sleeps with us and loves the bed. She is completely potty trained. We crate her when we leave for a couple of hours but are working at getting her to have full rein of the house. She completed puppy class at PetSmart and now is in the intermediate class. She loves being around other dogs as well as people!!!
Enjoy the pictures and thanks again for our bundle of joy!!
Bill & Sharon |
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Isabelle has a forever family! (April 2010)
Isabelle (a puppy we adopted from you almost a year ago) just wanted to say hi and I thought I'd send some pictures as well. she turned 1 year old last month and also got to play in the snow for the first time. She goes to day camp once a week to get some energy out and play with other dogs. She is still puppy wild from time to time but she is awfully sweet and very cuddly at the same time. She and Charlie (our older dog, he is 4) have become the best of friends.
Take care,
Erin |
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Joe's lovely locks in his heavenly home! (March 2010)
I never sent in a picture of "Joe" who I adopted in 2007 from CARE, so I thought I would send in now. As you can see from the picture that Joe recovered 150% from being found on the side of the road, COMPLETELY bald with a really bad case of mange--this guy now needs to be groomed monthly with all his curly hair! Joe is a LOVE. I actually call him velrco-Joe because he is always by my side--always. He loves to be my running partner but also loves to just sleep and hang on the deck chair. I dare say he is the perfect dog. His favorite thing is his lamb's ears which he loves to bury around the house under blankets and towels. I do sometimes still see remnants of his past life when I make too quick of a movement and he cowers but he quickly realizes he is safe and loved and then becomes 'confident Joe' again--my heart still breaks a little for how he must have been treated. Joe is always the talk of all my friends and family because he is so gentle and sweet. His 100 mile an hour tail is legendary--it wags a lot so I think that is a good sign. ;)
Christa |
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Lacy found her forever home! (March 2010)
Our family adopted Lacy (formerly Lily) 8 months after the loss of our 14 year old dog, Scout. We were heartbroken and felt like we needed time to heal before bringing in another family member. We saw Lacy on the Petfinder website and met with her and a CARE volunteer with the rest of her litter one morning and feel in love with all of them, but chose Lacy for her sweet and gentle demeanor. Her biggest challenge was her stranger anxiety and reticence to approach new situations. Over the past 7 months we have watched her slowly increase her circle of friends and now is comfortable with a much larger circle of people. She goes for daily runs with me and joins in with a running group of 10 people on Saturdays. She plays daily with her 2 best buddies down the street, Lewis and Abby. She still approaches strangers with caution, but has developed much confidence and is very eager to please. We are so delighted to have her in our family!
Mary Beth |
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Buzz's first Lightyear in his forever home! (March 2010)
Just a quick Buzz update.
He is getting used to his routine and still doing very well. He had his first class on Saturday morning and loved it (especially meeting new puppies). We even did a little agility training and he did all the obstacles (he will do anything for string cheese). Everyone was amazed at how well he did in his first class and how calm he was. Since it was warm last weekend we also took him to Jordan lake. There were two other dogs playing in the water - and he joined in - attached is a picture.
Also, our neighbor just got a 6 yr old golden retriever - and they get to play in the morning. He is teething like crazy right now and leaving his baby teeth all over the house!
Regards, Matt |
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Amos and Callie; Two Kitties Equals Double the Love....and Entertainment! (February 2010)
I thought you might like to hear about Amos and Callie. They have become great friends. They play with each other, wrestle on the floor, chase each other around the house and then sack out in the guestroom. Amos gets the bed and Callie sleeps on a wicker chair with a soft afghan that’s folded there. Amos is bold and brash and the most curious kitty I’ve ever seen. He is right there when I’m cooking, opening a closet door or dresser drawer. Of course he walks or jumps right in to see what’s there. He watches me vacuum and clean out the kitty litter. I bought an extra large kitty litter box with a dome cover and steps going in to keep the litter in the box. You said he was a scratcher, he sure is.
He’s knocked down my plants, gotten soil all over the rug, and eaten or pulled off all my spider plant babies. I now have two pots of cat grass, which he likes to eat. And although he still pulls pieces of my jade plant and plays with them, he doesn’t do it as often. He also likes my hair ties, flips them up in the air and carries them all over the house. You might think I’m complaining, but I’m not. It’s just like having a bad, little boy in the house, who is an absolute darling, and that amuses me.
I have a kitty door to the screen porch that Callie wont’ go through unless I prop it open. But Amos goes in and out at will even when the flap is down. They both like to sit on the screened porch watching for birds and squirrels. Amos is up to 10 pounds, and I think he’ll fill out a little more by the time he’s an official adult cat. I can’t believe how long he is when he stretches out on the floor. It looks like two and a half feet. Callie is still only weighs 7 pounds. She is small and dainty, and mellow unless she’s after Amos.
They both like to sleep in the bed with me, but usually not at the same time. I think Callie is a little jealous when Amos sleeps next to me, so she pests him until he jumps off the bed. Then she sits at the end of the bed as though she’s on guard so he won’t jump back in. But if she falls asleep, he sneaks back up and we all can get some sleep.
At night when I’m watching TV, Amos sleeps on the couch next to me, and Callie sleeps in a chair across the room. Apparently that’s OK with her because she never chases him away from me then. Sometimes he snuggles right next to me with half of him on my lap. Other times he sits on the arm of the coach and watches TV with me.
I am so entertained by both these two and I wanted to thank you for finding two such sweet kitties. They are perfect for me.
Maggie |
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Mitzie's makin a great companion! (February 2010)
We would like to update you on Roxy, she just turned 5 months old recently and she's about 50lbs now! We also took her for her vet appointments and she's doing great so far. She has lost all of her puppy teeth now and her adult teeth are still growing. She's very active and we walk and play with her everyday. She's doing great with house-training, with the rare occasional accidents when she's too excited. The Puppy Business book has helped a lot, thank you.
Take care and best wishes,
Leechian & Scott |
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Asher, this pooch is going places! (February 2010)
These are a couple photos of Asher from the past couple months. He has been a more wonderful dog than I could have ever wanted. He is shy with strangers, but loves all creatures and people once he meets them. When I first brought him home, he got carsick and started out anxious about the car, but now he loves it and knows that car rides usually mean trips to the barn, to the dog park, or to my friend's house to go swimming with her dogs. If you ever hear from the family with his sister and have adult photos of her, I would love to see what she turned out to look like also. Thanks for all your work with rescue dogs.
Laura |
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Tika's New Adventure! (February 2010)
Thank you for taking such good care of Tika. She is simply delightful. She sits beautifully, thanks to the good manners she learned with you, and is a beautiful, happy and energetic puppy. She brings us great joy everyday. Here are two pictures of Tika enjoying her first snowy day.
Annie |
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Kali (formerly Holly) has her forever family! (January 2010)
Kali is just wonderful!! She is so eager to learn and is so polite. Sheloves sleeping in bed with me at night and in the mornings I have to wakeher up to go outside to potty!! She's had a few little pee pee accidents inthe house, but once I learned that she likes to pee two or three timesbefore coming back in the house, she's been fine. She has a little bit of separation anxiety, but we're working thru that. She plays well with mysister-in-laws Maltese and her husky mix. We've been for a long walk with mycousin's miniature schnauzer, Kali was a little scared of him at first andactually barked for the first time, but after that, that got along great! We've been to Pet Sense in Sanford and went to meet Tammy at the Natural PetStore on 902 and she loved meeting her big dog and cat. I think she missesFrizz and Minnie too, but she seems very well adjusted already.
Thank you for everything you've done for us!! |
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Duke (formerly Dakota), One Lovin Lab! (January 2010)
Duke is doing great :) He's 65lbs and beautiful! Potty training was a little rough.. it took him until November to finally catch the drift. He would go about 2 weeks with no accidents and then just randomly squat in front of us. He's past that phase and even lifting his leg when he feels like it! He knows quite a few tricks and we're working on 'roll over' now. Duke is definitely a snuggler with us and will make sure he fits right in between Greg and I when we're sitting on the couch. When Greg is gone training, he sleeps right next to me in bed. When Greg is home, he falls asleep on the floor, waits for us to fall asleep, then carefully jumps up and gets comfortable at our feet. He's very sneaky.
He was (and still is) a chewer! He chewed 12 pairs of shoes (mostly our sandals), blankets, he loves taking paper and shredding/spreading that all over the place. We only give him hard bones or the occasional rawhide because any toy we give him, he eats. We even bought the Extreme Kong, the black ones for the biggest dogs. It took him about 3 weeks but he eventually chewed the top off of that. His favorite is squeak toys and lucky for us, they don't last long before we're throwing them out. He's up to date on all his shots and is in good health.
His fur pattern is very unique. He has a tiny white patch on his chest and the rest of his body is black as night... until the sun shines on him that is. When the sun shines on him, you can see a brown rottweiler fur pattern on his face and paws. His head is also a lot more boxy than a lab. Since there was a puppy that looked like a rottweiler in his litter, we're assuming he has a little of that in him as well. Also, his tail is more poofy on the top and his tongue is spotted bluish black on the top and almost completely blue/black on the bottom.
We took him to Chicago with us for Christmas and he LOVED the snow. We also just purchased a house on an acre of land so pretty soon he'll have a whole backyard to roam.. and dig holes in unfortunately.
He's great with kids and all other dogs. My friend's 2yr old daughter has loved him since the day we got him and he's always been so gentle with everyone.
Thank you so much for trusting in us that we would be great parents :) He is a huge source of entertainment, he keeps me company when Greg is gone and we couldn't imagine our family without him.
- Jacque |
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Sophie, From a Horrible Hoarding Situation, to Heaven on Earth! (January 2010)
Sophie continues to make progress. She continues to be a delight and so full of energy. When Michael is not home she comes out and plays, sometimes sleeping in the sun on the living room floor with Binx and Shaka. She loves it when I go outside with her and the others and walk the yard. She will look for things to dig or just explore. She adores Shaka my 135 # Ridgeback and plays rough housing with Binx.
She is starting basic obedience class Thursday night. I took her for registration last week and she was tolerant of the environment. Skiddish around a lot of dogs at once, but actually did as good as I could have hoped. I worked with her in the fall on basic obedience at home, while I took Binx to class. If she gets nothing more than being better socialized, I will be happy. She knows sit, down, give me 5, and sit up. She walks well on a leash once she has it on. I have worked using treats both inside and outside to get the leash on her without stressing her.
She still barks at Michael but comes on the bed at night to receive treats from him and follow basic commands of sit, down, and give me five. She expects treats from him on the bed even if I am there. He will attend obedience class with us and I am hoping to work him into working with her in the class at least a few of times to help with better accepting him. We need to work at home with Michael walking her on the leash but I want to do that outside cause she sees going outside the fence on the leash as a reward and I am hoping she will continue to enjoy with Michael on the end of the leash. It has been soooo cold and it is dark when he comes home so we haven’t worked on it yet.
She consistently eats in the kitchen with the other dogs as long as I am around when she is eating. She will take her food fromunder the bed from Michael but I don’t want to go back there so we will continue to work towards her eating with him around. She also comes to go outside more readily for me when Michael is home but doesn’t often go out for him. I will be taking Binx to Advanced Basic class so she and Michael will have one night a week at home with Shaka and I think that will help.
She continues to be my sweet little girl. She snuggles with me on the sofa with Michael next to us. She sometimes gets up on the sofa unsolicited, even with Michael on the sofa next to me.
She has been with us for nearly a year and I think she has come a long way. I feel another year and she will be happy with Michael also. She does warm up to our pet sitter after a couple of days now, which is good. My sitter is too old to be laying on the floor enticing her from under the bed.
She had her annual physical and shots last week and she now weighs 15.4#s. She is my little fat girl. It’s because I use treats to train her but she gets lots of exercise and never turns down a meal.
Sally |
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Lily found her forever family! (January 2010)
I wanted to share pictures of Lily. We’ve also adopted another dog (Hailey) in late November to keep her company. They are best friends and we couldn’t be happier.
I hope you can see that Lily has really gotten bigger (“fluffier”) and she has really blossomed. We can’t thank you enough for allowing Lily to become part of our family. We are so blessed and wanted to share pictures of our special children with you.
The Bowden Family |
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Max (formerly known as Buzz) is happy to tell his story! (January 2010)
Max (formerly known as Buzz) Adopted October 2009:
Hi Everyone!
I am sorry that it has taken me a while to send you this thank you note and let you know how I am doing in my new home. First, I want to say thank you to all of the folks at C.A.R.E. for rescuing me and taking such good care of me until I was adopted! I have settled in quiet nicely into my new home. In fact, I think I may even be the “head of household” now. I think I have hit the jackpot here. I have several beds throughout the house, a basket full of toys, a variety of treats to choose from, and most of all lots of love and kisses on a daily basis. As you may know, I love to give lots of kisses! My favorite things to do are playing hide and go seek and going to the dog park with my Momma. I love the dog park! I just keep running and running until Momma says it is time to go home. I have met my new Veterinarian and she just fell in love with me. She took me around the office to meet all of the staff and said that I was just “too cute”. In case you don’t remember, I am kinda easy on the eyes and love the ladies!
Crate training did not go so well when I was left alone. Thankfully, everyone realized soon enough that I can be trusted to have the house to myself. All I really want is to hang out on the recliner anyway. I am glad we got that misunderstanding cleared up. I have been told that am I signed up to begin training classes later this month. I guess the bright side to that is that my new friend and neighbor Bentley (Bassett Hound) will be there too. We were both adopted around the same time and love to play together.
My Christmas holiday was great! I got lots of treats and toys as may see from the pictures I have sent. My Momma bought me a jacket at some fancy “doggy boutique” so I had to pose and wear it for pictures! I guess it is a good thing she bought it since it has been so cold outside!
I feel like such a lucky dog and I have all of you to thank for that! If you are ever out in Wake Forest, stop by and see me! I love visitors and would love to show you my new digs!
Happy New Year!
Love,
Max (you may remember me as Buzz) |
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Bentley and Annabelle get a fabulous forever! (December 2009)
I adopted Bentley after seeing him posted as a community dog on the C.A.R.E. site, and Annabelle (a C.A.R.E. dog), was adopted by my mother. They have been a great addition to our families!!!! thanks so much!!!! Bentley is a sweet boy who loves other dogs and life in general! He has definately changed people's preception of the Pit bull 'hype'!!! Annabelle has been a wonderful companion to my mother who's dog passed this year, we are so thankful!
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Preston Purrs like a Harley! (December 2009)
I adopted Preston last Sunday and I would like to say he has adjusted so well. By the way we have nick named him Harley because he purrs sound like a motorcycle. He is loved by everyone and loves everyone back. Our kitty of 7 years is in awe and fasinated by him and I think they are going to bond well.
What a great choice, thanks so much C.A.R.E. for taking good care of Preston.
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Millie's Wonderful New Life (November 2009)
Hi everyone and thank you so much for our precious pup Mildred (Millie). She was just 11 weeks when we saw her picture with her littermates on Petfinder.com. We knew how much work a puppy would be so we waited and hesitated, but all we could think about was her sweet little face and soft eyes so we finally made the trip to Chatham County Shelter to see if she was still there. And there was Millie...a bloodhound mix with long floppy ears, a little shy and very sweet and gentle. She was about 12 weeks when we got her home and boy what a handful! She has fulfilled all the promises of puppy-dom, lots of accidents, chewing and neediness, but she is growing up now and turning into a beautiful companion and member of the family. Although she still goes 'puppy crazy' when she meets new people, she is very well behaved, sits, stays, does tricks, goes into her crate when asked to, and loves to go hiking. She even made it up a small mountain recently, scaling almost vertical rocks and trying so hard, and this from a pup who is still sometimes very wary of stairs! Every day she grows bigger and wiser and more confident and every day we love her more. Millie is now 5 months and we cannot thank you enough for taking care of her and giving us the opportunity to raise her and call her our baby.
Jennifer |
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Sammi (AKA Fiona) Found Her Perfect Place for Life! (November 2009)
The decision to adopt a second dog took us a long time. Now we realize that we should have done this a long time ago. Adopting Sammi (formerly known as Fiona, aka Fifi) was the best thing we have ever done. She's sweet, spunky and quite energetic and has become a wonderful little sister to our 3 year old Pomeranian, Emmi, who was a rescue too. They round each other out, and have loads of fun. Other people have always told us that two dogs are better than one. I never believed them before, but yes, it is true. Although this brings more work and expense, it also brings invaluable time shared, laughter and fun. It has only been three weeks since we became new parents to Sammi, it's hard to realize life before her. She was welled trained by her foster mom, Laura, and came with a clean bill of health. We feel very blessed with our new addition. Thank you to CARE, and Laura for bringing Sammi to us.
Sandy
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Harper's Happy Ending (November 2009)
I saw Mikey's post on here and I had to respond. He was looking for Mikey's brothers and sister and I adopted Mikey's sister Susie!!! She goes by Harper now and is doing wonderful!!Its so funny to see how different (but still similar) the brother and sister look. She is small, about 15 pounds but full of energy and loves to outrun my neighbor's golden retrievers. She is sweet, never knows a stranger and graduated from beginnger's training about four weeks ago.She's mastered sit, stay, down and even 'Go to bed' where she runs to the bed and lays down. She loves walks DEFINITELY has that beagle nose but the Pomeranian in her is a cuddle buddy and she has to be right next to you all the time.I don't know what I'd do without her and her dad and I want to thank CARE so much for all the great work they do!
I'm so glad to hear another adopter's story from Harper's family and I'd love to hear more and see more pictures of the group!! |
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Oshi for Short (October 2009)
Oceana is doing great! She's squeezed herself into my computer chair with me and is watching me type this. We call her Oshi for short. Everything was fine at the vet's, no problems at all, and they said she was the healthiest kitten they've seen in a long time. She's loving our stairs and is running up and down all the time. She also is very talkative, and trills constantly. She and our other cat Indy are already getting along. Indy hissed just a little bit the first few days and was anxious at first, but now they are both relaxed and play together, share toys and windows, and Oshi seems to know to leave Indy alone when Indy gets tired of playing--then she comes to us to play. They are mostly well behaved, and both have the run of the house already.
It's so hard to get a picture of them together because they are always running around. Oshi's getting more and more comfortable here, claiming her favorite spots to sleep and sit (including piles of laundry, especially socks), and also more loving.
Thanks for checking in!
Megan and John
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Jasper (Formerly known as Brewster) (October 2009)
I wanted to give you an update on Jasper. He is still one of the best dogs I've ever had. All of the neighbors are crazy about him and he loves life!!!
I still walk him up to the pond at the top of my street for a swim at least 4 times a week. I take him to the dog park in Southern Village often and he's still best buds with our Boston.
I'm still spreading the word about C.A.R.E. and what a great job you all do.
Thank you again for sharing him with us. He truly is a part of this family.
Debbie
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Mikey's Happy Ending (October 2009)
I know it's been a long while but I wanted to give you a little update on Mikey. He is doing wonderful and he truly brings me so much happiness and laughter in my life. I don't know what I would do without him. He is so well behaved, and has learned how to sit, shake, and lay down. He has also learned the command 'lay in your bed' haha because he likes to try to jump on the bed to sleep in my bed with me at night, so I had to teach him to lay in his doggy bed f. He is doing so well. I brought him to the vet about a month ago to have his nails trimmed and the vet just looked him over while we were there. She said his coat looks great (it is so soft) and he is 14 pounds, which she said is a perfect weight for his size. He is still on Frontline Plus and also on his Interceptor heart worm pills (once a month). I have him eating Wellness food now because he seems to get bored with his food every now and then. I have switched between Nutro and Wellness. I have heard good things from the vet about the science diet and I may look into that as well eventually, but for now he is doing well. He seems to be a finicky eater. When I'm home he likes to be my little shadow and follow me around room to room, while I'm doing things around the house. So when he is following me, he tends to forget about his food. But I often find that while I sit down to eat dinner, he eats his food. He also eats later on in the night sometimes, which makes me laugh (my little late night eater). He loves to play with any dog we see. He absolutely loves my parents golden retrievers and does well with them. I often say he has little man syndrome because he steals their toys from them and always seems to win tug of war with the goldens every time (he is pretty tough for being so small). I take pics of him all the time because he is so cute and is always making me laugh. I took him on his first road trip this past weekend to rhode island and he did great (never even got car sick). In Rhode Island I was able to let him off his leash most of the time we were there because where we stayed was out in the middle of nowhere really, so there was lots to keep him entertained. He's funny because when he is off his leash, he will explore, but will always check back in with me to see where I am and make sure I am still there (like a little toddler almost). So Mikey is doing very well and everyone who meets him absolutely falls in love with him. I always have people stop me whenever we are out on walks to ask what kind of dog he is. He's so cute because he has these LONG skinny little legs, big floppy ears, LONG LONG tail, beagle smelling nose, and just the BEST personality ever. He is still all tan color with white belly and white little paws.. Soooo cute. I'm attaching pictures of him to the email so you can see how he looks.
Have you heard how any of his brothers and sisters are doing? I always wondered about them and caught myself thinking about whether they were around the same size as mikey. I hope all is well with you and thank you again for giving me the sweetest little dog. I really do love him to pieces !!
Alexandra
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Boone & Pheonix Forever (October 2009)
I just wanted to send you a couple pictures of the boys, Boone and Phoenix, that we adopted earlier this year. They've grown a lot! Almost twice as big as they were when we first met them, and we can't imagine living without them now. While we're gone during the day they enjoy stalking one another, and lounging on my bed... which seems to be the house's hot-spot. They've got a clean bill of health, and two very distinct personalities. Phoenix (or Mr. Pheenie, as we have nicknamed him) tends to be more aggressive; his hobbies include attacking toes under blankets and leaping from high objects onto his brother. Boone likes watching tennis on tv, and napping on my legs while i read in the evenings. We just wanted to show you how much they've grown, we couldn't imagine better family members. I hope you enjoy the pictures!
Charli and family
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Jack (formerly known as Silas) Adopted 7-3-2009 (August 2009)
We adopted Baby Silas, now 'Jack' on 7/3/09, a 9wk chocolate Lab Mix. Our contact w/ CARE was wonderful... professional, caring, and prompt. We now have a fabulous and hysterical addition to our family! He is chewing on everything, getting in to all sorts of mischief, using our 3yo female lab mix as teether and making us all laugh. He loves sticks, frogs, his big sister 'Sadie', hiding under the bed... and snuggling up when he is tired.
We are so happy to have Jack and we're so very glad that everything worked to bring him into our home. We would definitely adopt from CARE again. Thank you so much for saving him for us! :)
Elizabeth & Bill |
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Taz (formerly known as Blaze) Adopted 3-2009 (August 2009)
Being a cat person and having 3 house cats, I never really thought that adding a dog to the mix would work. Our girls really wanted a dog so we thought we would look into it and see...We discovered the CARE organization and soon met up with Laura and Sandy with a couple of dogs needing a home. Love at first sight, Taz aka Blaze joined our family in the middle of March...just at the exact time that I got the flu and was home sick for a week. Needless to say, Taz and I bonded.
We immediately enrolled Taz in dog obedience classes which I highly recommend, especially for those like me that are new to dogs. It was so helpful to learn right from the start the right way. Taz is definitely happiest either at home by my feet, sleeping in my daughter's bed (we did the crate for the first few months; but soon realized he really just wants to be with us) or in the car en route to either the dog park or a hiking trail.
We cannot imagine life without him. He has learned which cat to hang out with and which one to avoid. He protects us from lawn mowers, garbage trucks and delivery trucks. He is still fairly shy and we need to work on outings with him so that he will relax while we hang at outdoor cafes, but he is such a sweet boy. He was around 2 - 3 years old when we adopted him and definitely an easy transition. He was completely house trained, sleeps and hangs out with the family, doesn't chew stuff, doesn't bark, still playful. Totally would recommend an older dog over a puppy.
CARE is a great organization with such caring and dedicated volunteers that are so knowledgeable and a great resource when you have questions. We look forward bringing Taz to Woofapalooza in the fall.
Heather, Steve, Camille, Holly
Joolz, Bingo, Snickers
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Fiesty Fufu (August 2009)
Thank you CARE & foster mommy Melissa, We adopted Feisty aka Fufu August 15 our family is now complete. We couldn't ask for a better girl she is so smart and lovable. Her mommy,daddy, big human brothers Austin(9) and Robbie(5) love her so much and love taking care of her. The cutest thing she does is when she is sleeping she sticks her little toung out and when she wakes up it stays like that for a while, its adorable!
Jen, Will, Austin, Robbie and Fiesty Fufu
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Miley and Ozzy...a happy ending for all! (August 2009)
Our Adoption Story - The Dickson's Holly Springs, NC
Making the decision to adopt a dog was harder than our decision to have our first child over 15 years ago. Babies we were ready to take on, dogs, we didn't know about, as both my husband and I never owned one as children. It was our own 15 year old son and 9 year old daughter that spent a lot of time begging us for a dog; relentlessly coming up with reasons why they needed one, and why we should consider it.
After getting me 'on board', we left the final decision up to my husband. In the spring of 08 at the dinner table my husband announced, 'Okay, we can get a dog, with conditions. It has to be small, it has to be trained when we get it, and it's not allowed to go upstairs, and everyone in the family had to participate in the care, training and feeding.'
As a family, we all agreed to the terms and then set out to find that perfect match for our family. That search proved to be most enlightening and somewhat frustrating as we were going through it. I went on Petfinder and put in the criteria, young, small, female dog. We came across many, but all were adopted quickly as small dogs are sought after. Numerous searches, visits to the SPCA and local area shelters all were heartbreaking for us, as we saw how many animals needed homes, but remained realistic in what we could take care of in our own home. I came across a small Jack Russell mix on the CARE website and submitted a detailed application. What we got in return was an email saying that this dog was not for us and that the organization would be in touch. Needless to say, we were flabbergasted that a loving home would be 'turned away.' It was a few weeks later that we got an email from CARE volunteer, Frances, saying, in essence, that a dog that would work with our family was available and we should come and meet her ASAP. The next day, my children and I rode to Pittsboro from Holly Springs to meet the young two month old pups Frances was caring for. Little 'Elouise', a unique Dachshund/Border Collie/ Pekingese mix was a sweet little black dog that shyly took her time to come over and greet us, while her bigger and 'wide open' sister, Millie came bounding over to check us out. Another, shyer sister, Gretel, stood behind the crate just poking a slightly curious head out to the visitors. My children were overwhelmed. My daughter immediately welled up with tears out of sheer excitement. My son sat down in on the barn stall floor and accepted all the kisses from the wildly excited Millie. Eventually little 'Elouise' made her way over to cautiously check us out and then engaged the children in play and warmed up to them. My children wanted all the pups! Frances explained they were all available, but her selection of Elouise was based on the criteria we listed on our application. We needed a smaller pup (and Elouise was the smallest of the three sisters with an estimated 25lb full growth weight and short little Dauchshund legs) and she was not too hyper, (like her overzealous leader of a sister) and not too shy (like the other sister who seemed pained to have to see visitors).
Within five minutes we knew 'Elouise' would be a perfect fit for our family. It was during this visit that I asked Frances why we were turned down for the Jack Russell and she explained to us that CARE workers carefully review applications and want to make the best fit for the animals and the adoptive families. Because we never owned a dog before, the other puppy would have been a lot of work for first time dog owners, and she felt we would get overwhelmed and frustrated. Little 'Elouise' was the one for our family. And, boy was Frances on the money!
We adopted Elouise on June 30, 2008. My daughter was allowed to pick the name for our new addition and she settled on 'Miley Elouise'. So, little Miley joined our pack and our hearts exploded with a new found love and compassion that we never knew existed within us. My husband immediately bonded with the little bundle and even broke down on his first 'rule' of 'no upstairs' within the first 48 hours when he found the kids had put the puppy on their beds to snuggle with them while they did their homework.
After Miley healed from her neutering surgery, she was ready for puppy school where her collie instincts and intelligence became very evident. The smallest dog in the class , she was not intimidated by the big dogs and was eager to please her new family. She quickly learned all the basic commands, and within days of living with us, we taught her to ring a bell on the back door when she had to go out and potty.
Although a little overwhelmed and shy at first, Miley's personality changed as she became more comfortable in our home. She became much more outgoing and a little celebrity in town as people who knew us could not believe that after so many years we finally got a dog - and such a friendly one at that! Miley's favorite daily activity became walking my daughter to school and greeting the school buses as they pulled into the lot. It was like she had the 'job' everyday of herding the kids off the bus and into the school. She became the unofficial school 'mascot' garnering the admiration of hundreds of school children who greeted her each morning with, 'Hi Miley!'
As the months went by, we could see how much Miley not only enjoyed our company, plus the visitors and friends that came to our home, but also the company of the many dogs that live in our neighborhood. Her favorites were two Shih Tzu's that live on the street. In the spring of 2009, we sat down and discussed the possibility of adding a second dog to our family to keep Miley company and of course, for us to love as well. This time around, I requested of our family that we consider a very small dog (under 20 lbs) and I wanted it to have part Pekingese in it since Miley's mom had Peke in her. Narrowing down your criteria like that in an adoption does limit you, as it is difficult to find small dogs like that. I knew that, and set off to find it anyway.
I first let Frances at CARE know we were looking for a second dog to add to our family and what our specifics were. I searched Petfinder and again, because of the small dog and the breed, whatever was available was adopted almost as soon as the listing went up, or they were located too far away to pursue adoption.
After about three or four times of hearing how we were just a little late getting in applications, and just missed out, we figured it would be quite a while before we found the perfect match. Then, along came a message from CARE. A male Peke was available, but did have special medical needs. Knowing that we wanted a playmate for Miley, we felt that he would not be a good fit. It was about a month later another CARE volunteer, Laura, became our second CARE angel.
Through what we consider great luck, Laura found another Peke that had made his way to the Chatham Animal Shelter. She called me to tell me she had taken him into her care and asked if we would be interested in the two year old little guy who seemed to be a spirited fella greatly in need of some TLC, not to mention a day of beauty as his luxurious coat was nothing more than a tangled matted mess.
Laura fostered the Peke rescued from the 'mean streets of Pittsboro' until he was cleared for adoption. My son got to name the new addition this time and because of his wildly disheveled look and kooky personality we affectionately named him 'Ozzy'. Yes, as in Osborne. He has a tongue that hangs way out of his mouth, and we thought about naming him Genie (after Gene Simmons from Kiss), but we figured Gene would track us down and demand royalties. LOL.
And so, Oz Man, as we call him, came to our home and we set our sights on raising two dogs. It was not an easy first two weeks. Through the great advice and constant communication with his foster mom, Laura, we worked through a lot of his personality issues. We continued to give him love, time, obedience, and patience. Within four weeks of coming to our home, Ozzy was as different dog. He put on weight, his skin and fur became healthy and he even stopped doing his frequent bouts of 'reverse' sneezing. He had begun to calm down and work his way into his new pack.
We've now had Ozzy about five months and can't imagine our home without him. He's Miley's buddy, wrestling partner, friend, and our little 'clown' dog that keeps us laughing with his quirky playfulness. He's picked up new 'tricks' like giving us his paw on command and fetching. He has even learned to trust people outside the immediate family and has claimed our friend's little three year old daughter as 'his own' personal little buddy following her from place to place when she visits and giving her his toys.
I know my husband and I feel we missed out not having a dog sooner, but on the flip side, we also know our timing in the adoption of our dogs was perfect. Our children are old enough to help, and share in the responsibilities, and we have a routine that works for our pets. The calming effect the dogs have brought to our home is amazing. We are so grateful to CARE and the wonderful thoughtfulness and friendship we received from Frances and Laura throughout the process of both adoptions. We refer to them as the 'foster parents' that helped complete our family.
'Until one has loved an animal a part of one's soul remains unawakened'
Anatole France
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Spock & Sally, BFF's (August 2009)
We adopted Spock as a companion for our four year old cat who clearly misses her old buddy (whom we lost about two years ago). After two months, Spock and Isis are finally learning how to share ... a little .... but a friendship that we did not expect was formed almost instantly!
Spock and our dog Sally (our first C.A.R.E. adoption) are BFF's. Spock took to Sally on the very first day we brought him home and Sally stresses out when she looses sight of Spock. They sleep together, eat together (sharing the dog food!) and play together.
Whats more is that they are BOTH a Daddy's girl and a Daddy's boy! We have a great little family. Thank you C.A.R.E. for matching us!
Caryn and Mike Anderson
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Fortune AKA Precious (July 2009)
We thought we had something missing in our family. We knew it! We needed to get an animal... So, We started looking around for a female cat. We went to Chatham Animal Shelter, and now we have the joy of our Life; Fortune a.k.a. Precious... the little orange tabby Mix. We thank everyone that we have her now. She is doing great. I am so fortunate that we found her. When I went to look at her at the Shelter... She was so loving and was one of the few cats that seemed interested in me/what was going on. Now she is getting spoiled rotten and is getting what she deserved from the start; A home w/ people who love her. We appreciate what God has given us. She has a Palace, well... More like a big cat house, that she can prance around in!!! Thank you everyone! |
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Macy Gray Saves the Day! (adopted 3-2009) (July 2009)
Macy Gray is doing great. We just LOVE her so much! She is so sweet and just loves attention - especially having her belly rubbed. We have a friend who who has a dachshund named Jack who comes over to play. They chase each other around and wrestle for hours. We want to take a picture of them together but they won't stay still long enough. Anyway, we are very happy and can't thank you enough.
Sarah & Robert |
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Pepper (AKA Lenny) Adopted 3-21-09 (July 2009)
As I write you, Lenny (now Pepper!) is sitting on my lap at work. He comes to work with me every day and loves it. There is a constant stream of volunteers who ooh and aah over him. And he is a natural therapy dog. This morning a little girl came up in her wheelchair and invited him up onto her lap...where he promptly curled up and went to sleep...much to her delight! Pepper plays with his best friend Mabel for much of the day. They are a sight to behold. Mabel is another rescue, who now weighs almost 70 pounds but she is so gentle and they will just lay on the floor and roll around together for hours on end. Pepper's only issue is that he is VERY attached so that if I have to leave the office, he will whine (ever so quietly) until I come back (or until someone lets him past the puppy gate into the main reception area....which is more often the case!) The volunteers LOVE, LOVE, LOVE him!) At home, he and our fox terrier Riley are fast friends...literally ...as they run from room to room taking turns changing one another. Thank you so much for giving us such a wonderful friend!
Shelley |
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Buffy AKA Sweet Pea (July 2009)
Attached please find several pictures of your sweet pea, we call her Buffy. She is growing and she is spoiled, of course. We love her and want to thank you again.
Sincerely,
Sue and Bart |
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Jake (formerly known as Pepper) Adopted 12-2008 (July 2009)
Pepper, now known as Jake is doing great. He has managed to steal our hearts away. We love him dearly. He is full of life and always knows how to make our family smile. He is a huge cuddle bug who always needs to be touching someone. His favorite toys are bedroom slippers and balloons. He is very fond of his 2 big sisters, and tries everyday to be more like them. Thank you so much for letting him become a part of our family.
Love
The Buchanan Family |
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Riley formerly Levi (adopted April 2009) (June 2009)
Just thought I'd give you a quick update on Riley! He's now about 18 inches at the withers and weighs 35 pounds! His bark is even starting to sound more 'grown up'. When I took him to the vet last month, they said he might get around 80 pounds, but if he keeps growing at this rate, who knows! He's definitely giving Bella a run for her money during playtime though!
He's been taking training classes at Petsmart on Sundays and is the top of his class. (Not that I'm biased or anything....) He is eating four cups of a food a day and is nice and healthy looking with a beautiful glossy coat. He's also learned how to ride in the back of the SUV (behind the dog barrier) with Bella like a 'big boy'. He such a good little boy and as sweet as the day we got him.
Regards,
Alexis
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Happy Henna (adopted 3-2009) (June 2009)
I fought the idea of having a dog for a long time because I never grew up with dogs and wasn't sure I wanted to have one in my house! Henna came to our family a few months ago. She has changed our lives completely! I never knew you could love a pet so much. Nothing makes me happier than when I see my kids laughing as they play with Henna....their new best friend. My 7 year old said to me the other day, 'Mom, you don't need to have another baby now. I am a big brother to Henna!' To me, Henna is our little angel who has brought more love to our family that we could have ever imagined. We will be forever grateful to you and your organization.
Kim & Family |
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Syra aka Shadow (adopted 4-2009) (June 2009)
Syra aka 'Shadow' arrived at our house on Easter Sunday. It has been a wonderful experience having her in our lives.
She is a great dog with lots of love for the whole family even Reuben our 11 year old cat.
She is happy and healthy and it feels like she has been with us for years!
Thank you C.A.R.E for everything we our so lucky to have Syra be a part of our family.
Thanks, Jim, Terri, Jake and Meg
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Sherman's Happy Beginning (adopted 2-2009) (June 2009)
Sherman is doing fantastic! I love him, as does everyone who meets him. He's so much fun to watch when he meets someone new (dog or human), because he gets so excited and happy... and then of course loses all muscle control and flops over to have his belly rubbed! Aside from inevitable moments of frustration, I am continually impressed with what a great dog he is!
I've attached a couple of my favorite pictures of him (not great quality, since they were taken from my phone, but I just got a new camera and antipate using it lots to capture his amusing moments!). The third photo was from a day when I got out of the shower to find that 'prince Sherman' had decided to take the matter of his comfort into his own hands. And the others are just a couple of typical Sherman.
Shirley |
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Oreo's Happy Ending (adopted 5-2008) (June 2009)
We adopted Oreo a year ago from CARE. We met her while having breakfast at Panera, and she just walks by with an 'Adopt Me' bandana on. She was adorable!
She is our first dog (we have 7 adopted house rabbits) and I can't believe we ever had a home without her! She is the sweetest, smartest dog we could ask for. She learns quickly, loves attention, and adores her play time.
Thanks to CARE for providing her with such a great foster home and for helping us find the perfect addition to our family!
Kim
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Hounds Rock! (Huck adopted 11-2007) (June 2009)
When we met Huck it was love at first sight! When we went to leave after visiting Huck's foster parents, he ran to the door with us and looked back and forth almost as if to say, 'Well, are you gonna take me home?' Huck has fit in wonderfully in our household and is very easy going. He gets along great with kids, cats, and other dogs. He's always up for a walk or a ride in the car--we have to spell the word `walk' if we're not planning on going on one because he gets so excited! Here he is taking it easy with his brother Drake, also a rescue.
Sonia & Keith |
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Tarot in his New Home (May 2009)
Hi, Karen. I thought you might enjoy seeing Tarot in his new home. We can't imagine life w/o him! He is happiest when we're all home and he can go from person to person. At night, he sleeps on one bed and then another, and he's adopted some of the children's stuffed animals as his own. We feel so lucky to have him as part of our family!! Hope all is well with you!
Lori
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Charlie (May 2009)
Charlie is wonderful!! He has been great from the beginning but he gets better every day! He still gets car sick on occasion but the seat belt seems to help make him more at ease. Also He can swim and rather enjoys a good game of fetch by the pond. He is very receptive to our authority, we never raise our voice at him; and he follows instruction very well. We love Charlie very much and are supper glad that he is part of our lives. He is very gentle with children and cats and other dogs. He was a great addition to our lives! Thank you again so much for introducing us to Charlie!
Brian and Terri
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Victor (May 2009)
I wanted to let you know how great everything is going with Victor. We have been having a lot of fun with both Victor and Yinky! He is doing so well! They play together all of the time now and then snuggle with each other-waaaaay too cute! He's doing very well-he is totally mat and knot free from head to paw, his little chin still gets soaked nightly and looks really good! Yesterday he also met his new vet for the first time when we stopped by the animal hospital on a walk. He is a great little addition to our family--he also attended his first track practice yesterday and today will be his first track meet. He's been to baseball practice and a game too! He's a busy little guy and making new pals everyday! He seems to have settled in quit nicely and we all love him so very much! We are so grateful we have him now and can not thank you enough for saving his little life!
Easter was a lot of fun, he even got a little basket from the bunny because he's such a good boy. He got some toys, treats, and few clothes--raincoat, t-shirts, another harness etc... Yinky and Victor enjoy chasing each other and wrestling, but then they both get exhausted and fall asleep like one big fur lump! This is great for her too-she has a little pal her size to play and cuddle with!
-Jackie & Matt
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Zoey update (March 2009)
Hi Stephanie,
Just a quick note to let you know that Zoey continues to mature and blossom. She passed the AKC Canine Good Citizen's test last night, which is quite an accomplishment given she's only been with us about 6 months ! She starts beginning agility next week. And of course, she and Tiger are still best buds. We're lucky we found her. A couple of pics are attached.
Hope you and foster dogs are doing well.
Best,
Bonni and Bob
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Sally : ) (March 2009)
I adopted Sally at the end of the summer in 2007, one week after she was dropped off. Everyone who meets Sally instantly falls in love with her, including my (now) husband. In fact, those two are pretty much inseparable. There's no denying she's his girl.... but she makes it known that she loves me too! Her original family, from what I understand, was forced to leave her due to conditions that were beyond their control. Its easy to see how much she was loved and I've thought of this often that if I were her original family, I'd wanted to know if she's OK and that she found a good home. Hopefully they find this Happy Ending and can rest assured that she is well taken care of, loved and spoiled.... daily. She's a big part of our family and lives and we hope we provide her the love she was used to. - Caryn [Mazzeo] and Mike Anderson |
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Bailey formally Bouncer (March 2009)
Hi..so glad to say, Bailey is a wonderful little girl! She's growing so much in just the two weeks we have adopted her. She also lost her first baby tooth last week and started Puppy obedience school this week. Already, she has learned to leave it, sit, come, fetch and much more...she is incredibly smart...Thank you C.A.R.E. for letting us adopt this wonderful girl!! |
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It's a Purrfect Match! (February 2009)
I thought that you would enjoy this photo of Pumpkin aka Apollo (r). He and Daizy are so close. They play together all of the time and they seek each other out. They want to be wherever we are as well as together. It's a perfect match. Just thought I would give you an update. Pumpkin is doing well, no problems whatsoever.
Tania
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Leo:) (October 2008)
You may have read about Leo. He's the little boxer that was found starved, locked in a crate without food and water. CARE took him in and with the dedication of a wonderful family, brought him back to health. Well, Leo has been with us since late August and has spent his time running, playing, going on long walks, and just being a happy puppy with his 3 canine brothers. With the help of these brothers, he has adapted beautifully to his new home. He has almost doubled his weight from when he was first found and is strong and muscular. He's the sweetest little boy and has learned to be affectionate and cuddly. Thank you CARE, and your foster families for finding us Leo.
Nancy
(Leo's new mom)
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Piper and Amelia : ) (August 2008)
Piper continues to enrich and delight us after 3 years. She's become a total lap cat and is so patient with the children (yes, we had another baby since adopting Piper). She can be seen here cuddling with baby Amelia. Amelia is not always the most gentle, but Piper has never even hissed, let alone scratch or bite -she's the most gentle soul and we love her! |
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Snickers :) (July 2008)
It's been a little over a month since we've had Snickers, AKA Paddy, and he is adjusting well to his new surroundings. He is quite a playful, clownish cat, still showing a lot of kittenish behavior; he is a joy to have in our family. Here are some of the photographs I've taken of him. Once again, thanks for your help in adopting Snickers,
Jim
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Dodger and Mady :) (July 2008)
My husband and I adopted Mady, our talkative tuxedo cat, a little under a year ago and knew that we would want a companion for him. When we saw Dodger for the first time with his litter mates, we had a good feeling about his affectionate purring and we just had to have the little guy! Now, we call him Bunny since he enjoys jumping around the house, over us, the sofas, and our house plants. He really looks like a bunny when he sprawls out on his belly with his legs stretched completely towards us. Although he likes to jump and gnaw on Mady, Mady tolerates his playful kitten behavior (and gets revenge by eating Dodger's yummy, fatty kitten food!). They're the best of brothers, as one can see by Mady's protective paw on his new little playmate. This tenacious tabby has brought more joy to our lives, so we thank you once again, Joan! |
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Happy Birthday Mary Anne! (April 2008)
Mary Anne adds so much character to our home. She appears to be timid and shy but she commands space and respect from the 3 other animal family members. She likes everyone but not enough to share her food or special pillow. Lexi (100lb shepard mix) knows that Mary Anne likes to sit by the fireplace so she moves away and makes room for Mary Anne when she enters the room. Sassy and Fur-nando are young cats that run around and play all day. Mary Anne does not have time for such things since she needs to keep an eye on the fish tank and front door from the top of the stairs most of the day. Sassy joined the family about a year after Mary Anne because we thought that Mary Anne would like a companion during the day. We were wrong. Fur-nando joined the family shortly after in hopes that he would bond with Sassy and she would have a companion. It worked! Mary Anne was thrilled because Sassy started playing with Fur-nando and stopped trying to interact and play with her. Everyone worked out their place and Mary Anne is definitely the Queen. The only one that Mary Anne tolerates unconditionally is her human sister Erin and the admiration is mutual. Mary Anne and Erin like to read and watch TV together as much as possible. Erin threw Mary Anne a surprise birthday party recently and Mary Anne was truly surprised. Thank you again Joan for letting us adopt Mary Anne. She's been with us for a few years now and we think that she's happy to be with us too. |
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Happy Mady :) (March 2008)
My husband and I adopted Madison through C.A.R.E. a little more than six months ago, and within a few days, he was more like our baby than our cat. I was a 'dog person' before we adopted Mady, but now I would never consider getting a dog! He's the sweetest, funniest cat on the planet and he makes our day with his incessant talking, his silly faces, and affection. His favorite toys aren't store-bought; he loves playing with plastic strips, floss, and bottle caps. What a cheap kid!;) Thank you, Joan, for making our animal dreams come true! |
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Happy Lola (February 2008)
Lola continues to make herself at home. She enjoys looking out the window at the garden and we've also discovered she likes to sleep under the covers. She is such a great cat! Over the holidays we had a party and were afraid that Lola would be overwhelmed by the activity and people in the house. On the contrary, she was right in the thick of it. She was the belle of the ball and loved all the attention and everyone loved her. |
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Greta and Porter :) (February 2008)
We brought home Greta (formerly known as Effie) in June of 2006. Her gentle spirit, eagerness to please, and girl-next-door good looks have won her the adoration of all our friends and family. She enjoys long walks in the woods and fields, and she loves to run, run, run. That, combined with the fact that she's never met another dog she didn't like, makes the dog park one of her favorite destinations. In fact last Spring she and some of her buddies figured prominently in an article I wrote for Wake Living magazine about the joys of our local dog parks. She's a great dog.
The newest addition to our family is Porter (his CARE name was 'Pale Ale,' but that was a little hard to say, so in keeping with the beer theme, we changed it to Porter). We've only had him about a month, but he's already made himself quite at home, and as you can see from the picture, even Greta has decided that he's OK. Six months before we got Porter, our 16-year-old Japanese Bobtail named Chino passed away. We had taken her in as a tiny stray kitten not long after we were married, so her loss was the end of an era for us, and quite a blow. Porter's arrival has reminded us why we enjoy having a cat around the house and helps us remember Chino with joy instead of sorrow. Porter is lively and curious--he especially loves watching the birds at the feeder attached to our window--but he's also a dedicated lap-lounger and snugglebug. He wasted no time in taking over our lives, and is quite possibly the most amiable cat I've ever met.
Thank you Jeanette and Carolyn Woods (Greta's foster mom) and all the great CARE volunteers who do so much to place these great animals in loving homes. As my grandmother used to say, 'Your reward will be great in heaven.'
Peter and Donna Waldron |
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Simon Says! (January 2008)
Simon Says! We adopted Simon (formerly Herbie) from CARE a year and a half ago and he has settled in so well! He's an easygoing cuddlebug that gets along well with our other cat and our two dogs. He's social and entertaining, and is the first cat I ever loved! Here he is with Betty, our yellow lab. |
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Boone (January 2008)
Just wanted to give you all, especially Katie (our dogs foster mom many years ago), a happy ending update. We adopted 'Doogie Bowser' from you all 4 years ago. Note: see what happens when you go to buy dog food on the day of an adoption event! We changed Doogie's name to Boone. He is having a great life! He lives in downtown Raleigh in the historic Glenwood area and enjoys walks to all the local bars and shops. He is also a great boat dog. He loves sailing on 'his' 27 foot sail boat in Oriental NC and especially loves dingy rides! Boone is such an important part of our family. He is funny and loving and a little crazy! He is a great companion to our 14 year old mixed breed, Lilly, and really helped her adjust after the sad passing of our beloved Doberman, Jake, who died of bone cancer in 2005 after amputation and chemotherapy. Lilly would have been lost without Jake if she had not had Boone as a member of her 'pack.' I'm attaching a photo of Boone on his boat.
Please forward!
...to Katie if she is still working w/ you all, and thank her for me. Thank you for all your work on the part of so many great dogs! Pam Floyd, Raleigh NC |
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former CARE dog featured in book! (January 2008)
Hi, CARE folks!
I have some happy news to share with you. I adopted Yama from you (Candace) three years ago, and she's been selected as one of the dogs featured in Border's new upcoming book entitled Happy Tails: Rescued Pets and Their Forever Homes, which will raise money for the ASPCA. Yama's picture and story will be included. She's thrilled, and her forever family is, too!
Thanks!
Rose Stremlau |
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Ross (January 2008)
I just wanted to let you know of a happy ending for one of your dogs. back in the early 90s, my mom adopted a 7 year old poodle/maltese mix from CARE. This year, ross (still his original name) is nearing the end of his long, happy life. I don't know what happened to him during his first 7 years, but these last 10 have been wonderful for him. He's seen his 'sisters' (humans) come and go (college, etc.), husbands come and babies grow - and he's always been eager to play and entertain.
It will be sad to see him go, but really, who can complain about living 17 years? (that's like 117 'dog' years!!!) |
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Savannah - tiny bundle of joy :) (January 2008)
Dear Karen, our little Chantuse ( we now call her Savannah)
is doing super! She has adjusted to her new family and runs around like a little madman! My whole family sincerely loves that tiny little bundle of joy! Our family is finally complete and is happy with the new addition to the house. She is so frisky and loves to play. But, the best part about adopting Savannah was taking in a sweet little girl who badly neede a home.
Thank you so much with all the help with adopting our baby! We love her and could never be happier! |
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doggies (January 2008)
I want to thank you and the officers that came to pick up my dogs.
I truly prayed as to what to do with them and my husband felt that my caring for them alone was too much and was afraid that I would fall or hurt myself.
I know he was and is right but it made the task hard. I had had them or 2 of them since they were born.
Your help was just what was needed. I was glad to give the dog food, dishes, and the leads and collars.
Again I thank you for your help.
May God Bless each of you for the service you provide the citizens of this county!Thank you will never be enough for your service. |
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Just a Smidgen will do! (October 2007)
Hi Karen, Smidgen is doing great! She and Millie are becoming
friends and I think it's going to work out well for all. Smidgen is starting to bring out Millie's playful side which is what we hoped for. Their favorite time to play it seems is just after we've
gone to bed. That's when they love to race all around the apartment. Smidgie is just so cute!!! She's so curious and into everything it seems but you just can't get mad at her because she's so adorable. As I'm sure you know, she LOVES to play! She especially likes to 'play golf' with Tom. She chases after the golf balls when he putts them and she usually ends up batting them under the furniture. We just love her and are so thankful that we found her to add to our 'family'. I will definitely give her kisses from you! Laura
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Finding Nemo (May 2007)
Dawson is now Nemo! He's now about 9 months old, furry and beautiful. His disposition is charming, loves everyone, is eager to please and has his own toys and bed. He's about 45 pounds now still full of puppy energy and has settled in beautifully with his sisters. |
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Love of My Life (April 2007)
It has now been almost 3 years since I adopted the love of my life from CARE! Sebastian (formerly known as Barney) is the most wonderful, loving, hilarious animal I have ever met and I am so lucky to have him in my life!
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Buster Crashes a New Home (February 2007)
Buster couldn't be better. He has added such life to this house. To see him and Cali is so funny. She tries to wash him and he gets mad and bites her. He's getting so big. He rules the roost. Cali has always loved laying on her window bed and watching the birds outside. Well, we bought him one so she could have hers back because he liked it so much but he likes hers better, even though they are the same. When we feed them he eats his wet food fast, while watching her out of the corner of his eye, then pushes her out of her dish and eats hers. She just sits there and watches him. Cali is like a kitten again. They run through the house all day and unfortunately most of the night as well. We love him so much!! We can't thank you enough for letting us adopt him. Bill gets so tickled, he'll be taking a nap on the couch and Buster will walk up on his belly and gives him a kiss. So far he's broken 2 wine glasses, a vase, a coffee cup and a couple of plants. When ever you hear crash, we go looking for Buster and he just looks at you with that beautiful little face as if to say 'WHAT?'. You can't help but laugh. I'll send more pictures soon. Thank you both again for taking such good care of him and allowing us to adopt him. He is very loved.
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Colby now Rambo! (November 2006)
I just wanted everyone to know that Colby the kitty (now named Rambo!) is doing well. He has met his brothers and sisters and he is playful and isn't afraid of anything. His purring is so loud you can hear it from the next room! He also loves to walk up to people and push his mouth on their lips. He is so adorable and we love him! Dana & John (parents of Rambo, Rudy, Figaro and Felicity) |
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Callie - Frisbee Lover (November 2006)
We just wanted to thank C.A.R.E. for rescuing Callie this summer and bringing her back to health. We adopted her in August and she has blossomed into the ideal pet: intelligent, sweet and well-behaved. To say that she loves playing frisbee would be an understatement: It's her main joy in life. She's so fast that no dog in the dog park can catch up to her. We couldn't thank you more for bringing Callie into our lives. -- Lauren and Brian
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Zack Makes a House a Home (September 2006)
We adopted 4month old Zack on January 5th. He was a little shy, but it didn't take long for him to warm up to his new home. Now, he just turned one and is wonderful. He LOVES his daddy, they go running and play together all the time. When he is tired, his favorite place is right next to us on the couch. He learned a lot about the beach this summer, but is still a little hesitant about the ocean.
Zack made our house a home and filled our hearts with a ton of love. He is gentle to children and loves to play with other dogs. Though his favorite thing is a cheese filled kong. We were so blessed to get Zack and we love all that CARE did to make sure he was taken care of for the 4 months before we even knew him. Thank you CARE for taking the time to care for the puppy we love, long before we knew he was part of our family.
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Willow All Night (July 2006)
I adopted my newest kitty, Willow Brindamour, this spring at the Cary PetSmart from CARE in conjunction with the Chatham County Animal Shelter. The CARE volunteers were very helpful and open when discussing the kitten-like personality of the Willow. He is very playful and keeps me up ALL night, but he has been a pleasure to bring into my home. He gets along well with my other cat, all my nieces love him, and he even likes dogs! The three of us have become quite the team.
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Cisco Kid (July 2006)
I adopted Cisco over 2 years ago. I must tell you though, your weight estimate was way off. He is a happy robost 65 pounds. Very loving and affectionate with me and my husband. Also, very protective of me. He loves his yard, long walks and sleeping on the bed with me and my husband. When I have more time, I would love to send Katie some updated photos, Katie was his foster 'mom'.
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Good Citizen Daisy (June 2006)
We adopted Daisy formerly Dottie from CARE in August of 2005. She just turned one year old last week and she is doing wonderful!! Daisy has been an amazing addition to our family. She has taken two obedience classes at GTCC and is getting ready to be tested for Canine Good Citizen. We are working with her to become a therapy dog so she can go to schools and read with the children. She loves people and adores all of the attention! We feel so blessed to have her in our lives.
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Belle Rings True (June 2006)
We adopted Belle (formerly Splasher) from the foster home of Nadean Lindsay in September 2005. Belle has been a wonderful addition to our young family and has really enlightened our lives! |
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Hef and Grandpa (June 2006)
I adopted Hef (formally Caleb) 3 years ago. He has been such a joy and sweet guy. I've loved him from the second he came home with me. He also spent a lot of time with his grandma and grandpa and they fell in love with him as well. This past October his grandpa was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Surprisingly Hef was by his side all the time, and I let him stay with them to keep him company. His grandpa swore that Hef had smelled the cancer before he was diagnosed because he always sniffed in the area of the tumor before he would cuddle up to him on the couch. As his grandpa got sicker, Hef stayed on the bed with him all day. In the mornings Hef would leave his food to go say good morning to him. When grandpa started getting too sick I began bringing him home with me during the week so not to strain my mother. The first week he wasn't there my father kept asking for Hef. On June 17 Hef said goodbye to grandpa with a lick on his hand and a whine cause he wanted to get in the hospice bed with his grandpa. When the paramedics came to whisk his grandpa off to the hospital he growled at them, trying to protect him. On June 18th my Dad passed, but Hef has been there to greet every visitor at the door and cuddle with us when a human hug won't do. So here's the last picture of Hef and my dad that I took, joking around and cuddling. Thank you to CARE for this wonderful joy that you have given me and my dad! |
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Maverick: A Wonderful Addition (May 2006)
We adopted Maverick (formerly Nick) in Dec. of last year. He's been a wonderful addition to our home! We see more and more of his personality each day! We are very happy with our adoption from CARE and want everyone to know he's doing well!!
Rachel |
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Playful and Lovable Gilmore (May 2006)
Thanks so much for checking in! Gilmore is doing GREAT -- John and I continue to be in awe that he was at the shelter for so long. Of all the cats that I have ever owned (trust me, that's a lot), I would dare say that Gilmore is one of the most playful AND one of the most loveable cats I have ever owned or met. And he now has a brother -- we were able to adopt Crunch from Wake County Shelter this past Sunday. The two boys didn't miss a beat -- literally within *seconds* of meeting one another they were rolling around on the ground wrestling. I took them both to the vet yesterday and they were even wrestling at the vet's office. Gilmore now has a microchip and is getting all his boosters, etc... we want to make sure NOTHING happens to either one of these two boys! Gilmore is the needier of the two; he follows us around constantly and yells to ensure we do not forget that he needs lots of loving. If he is not playing, he is begging for attn and if he is not begging for attn it is because he is fully stretched out and napping somewhere within arms reach (if not actually on the arm!).
Thanks again for all your help and most of all giving us a chance to provide Gilmore with a home... we couldn't be happier!
Debbi
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Poncho: All Around Athlete (April 2006)
I hope you remember us...we adopted a foster puppy in December of 2004,
so he is now about 18 months old.
I know this is an old picture, but thought you might like it anyway.
We are soooooooo happy that we picked Poncho!!! The whole family just
loves him! He is a wonderful dog...great with all ages of people, and
with other dogs...he is enjoying the new Cary Dog Park, and he and I are
taking Flyball Classes.
He is a wonderful size...ended up at about 45 lbs. He is very strong,
so we use a gentle leader when we walk him. He loves going to the kids
ball games, and regularly attends soccer and baseball games.
He is most definitely a vital part of our family, and spoiled rotten!!!
Take Care, and thank you for saving these animals!
nancy |
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Samantha and Mittens: Quite a Pair (March 2006)
I would like to thank Karen Poole for referring me to the West Cary Animal Hospital as I was searching for the perfect kitten for my daughter. We adopted 'Mitten' in mid-December and it's been a perfect match. She is the most affectionate, gentle, lovable little girl. She LOVES being held - which is a prerequisite with my daughter. I've been known to speak harshly to my daughter when I catch her carrying Mitten all wrapped up in a huge blanket with only her little face peeking out. That is, until I get closer and hear that unmistakable loud purring. Of course she has just enough spunk to keep things interesting for her new mommy - my 7 year old daughter, Samantha. The two of them are quite a pair. I can't tell you how much time I spend giggling to myself over the 'conversations' I hear between the 2 girls coming from my daughter's room. Finding Mitten was truly a blessing and I owe lots of thanks to both Karen with CARE and the West Cary Animal Hospital. Thanks!!!! |
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Summer: Grandma's Little Girl (March 2006)
Hello My name is Joanna, My son David adopted Summer(D0507) (now its Sophie). I would love for her Foster Mom to know that Summer/Sophie is doing great and although my son David adopted her, she fast became a Grandma's little girl. And she has a best friend named Hooch, who is a 4 yr old Hound. He loves her and teaches her all the hound dog ways. Please know that Sophie has 7 acres of free space to run and play.
Thank You, Joanna |
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Mary Anne: Reading to your cat is FUNdamental (March 2006)
I'm writing to give you a Mary Anne update. She is such a joy to have in our home. She is doing well and appears to be very happy. She loves spending time with my daughter Erin. I have attached pictures of Erin reading to Mary Anne. They absolutely adore each other. Thank you again for letting us adopt her.
Rosana |
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Daisy Still Blooming (March 2006)
We adopted Daisy (formerly Darci, German shepherd/Lab mix) in December 2005 and she is doing very well. She is a happy puppy who loves to be with the pack. She loves to play fetch and hide and seek. She is a fast learner and simply a pleasure to have in our family. We love her and feel so fortunate to have found her. |
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Dog Bait for Camo (February 2006)
Just wanted to let the Chatham Animal Shelter and Nadean Lindsay that 'Camo' is doing very well here. He is crate training great and loves his new home. My kids call themselves 'dog bait', because when they get home from school, Camo jumps around and chases them. He wants to go out and play in their yard. Camo is a great addition to our family. Thanks to Deb K. also for telling me about him.
Shana |
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Marigold Flowers (February 2006)
Just wanted to let you know that Marigold [center cat] is doing well. She loves her feline buddies and the girls. She even likes the dogs. Her favorite sleeping spot is curled up next to our daughter.
Take care, and thanks for helping us adopt a great kitty.
Andrea |
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The New Dog We've Had Forever (January 2006)
We adopted Jack (formerly Jet)in late July and it seems like we have had him forever, he fit in so quickly. He is the sweetest,gentlest dog we have ever known. He loves trips to the dog park, long power walks with Mom, his 'cousins' Jake (yellow lab of our son's family) and Harley (chocolate lab belonging to our daughter's family), and strolls with Dad.
We took him to Petsmart training classes where he was the class clown, always wanting to play instead of paying attention. He is very smart and can learn quickly...if he wants to.
The vet, trainer, others all have opinions about Jack heritage that range from Newfoundland, flat-coat retriever, and lab. Whatever he is, we are so grateful for Jack and for the opportunity to bring him into our lives.
John and Tina Willman |
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Loving Little Lily (January 2006)
I have wanted a cat with her personality for years and I could not have received a better Christmas gift than 'loving, little, Lily.' The lap cuddling by the fire at night has been pure joy.
She is learning lots of new things; to walk using a halter and leash ( we have been on two outside walks so far), to get our other cat Andrew (who is tree times larger and six years older) to play again, and to manipulate my husband into giving out extra treats.
One of the most fun things she does is at night...she finds little things around the house and leaves them in the dry-food bowl like a cache. We have found not only her little play mouse, but a Christmas bow, a silk holly candle ring, paper balls, and even a fake cherry she took from a display bowl!
Even with no volume control, Lily is the best thing to happen to our family in a long time. We talk to her just like we do to Andrew and laugh at ourselves knowing she can't hear us. We believe it's the feelings that count and Lily knows she is loved.
Everyone who has seen Lily here at home or out on the leash knows about Chatham Rescue now!
Thank you again for getting us together.
Karen and Lily |
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Adding Spice to the Holidays (December 2005)
Spice, now Angus, will enjoy his Christmas with loving parents and his 9 year old sister, Raven. Angus is a Chatham County Shelter kitten adopted from the Apex PetsMart during our 'Home for the Holidays' adoption event. Congratulations, Angus, on your wonderful new family!' |
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Brindy the Love Machine (November 2005)
On 7/31/05 we adopted Mimi (Now Brindy) from Nadean and it has been a wonderful time. Brindy, at six months, has grown into a 70 pound love machine! She is so naturally well-behaved it amazes us on a daily basis and our smaller dog Bella and her have become best friends (often sharing Brindy's enormous kennel for some cuddle time). They also make quite a sight in the backyard chasing each other back and forth.
Brindy is so good with children, she has become 'Amber's dog', and our daughter Amber is only seven months old! Brindy showers her with (carefully supervised) kisses every opportunity she gets and doesn't mind at all when this tiny person grabs a fistful of her floppy ear and gives it a yank. We look forward to having Brindy in our family for a long, long time.
Matt |
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Fetching Buddy (October 2005)
Hi there. We are sorry it took so long to get a 'happy ending' to you guys. We adopted Buddy (previously known as Malcom) back in March and we are so happy with him. At first all he did was sleep. And I mean that was ALL he did. If he wasn't in someone's lap sleeping, he was on one of his beds sleeping. But he quickly became comfortable with us and his surroundings and there is NO stopping him now. One thing is for sure he does not like to be away from us. If we leave one room of the house he leaves too and sticks right by us underneath our feet, even to this day. I guess that's really how he got our attention the first day was giving us mushy 'kisses.' And if we take him out somewhere people always comment on how cute he is. Wow, does he really know how to work people over. Good gracious.I don't know if you have ever seen the movie where the woman is told not to throw the toy for the dog to fetch because he won't ever stop. Well...I think we have that dog's brother. He definitely loves to play catch!!
Buddy is without a doubt the dominant dog in the bunch. He likes to be the ring leader of any doggie activities. He is definitely coming into his own. Everything he does (his 'mommy' thinks) is cute. He's very peculiar sometimes about random things but these are all reasons that we love him and are thankful that we got him. He will be 1 year old soon and we will be having a little party where all his doggie friends get to come over and play. I think we must have gone crazy. He'll sleep well that night for sure.
I just can't explain to you how much joy and happiness he has brought into our lives. I know that sounds very cliche, but it is so true. Having an animal, especially one with such a great personality, just makes life a little more fun and exciting. Without this program and others like it, what would these animals do. It takes special people to do the things you all do. I just want to say THANK YOU!
Jason, India and Buddy |
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Speedy a Fast Fit (September 2005)
This was the little orange/white med. haired tabby boy I named Moby fromthe shelter. He was #375. Looks like he has a great home.
Karen
I just wanted to let you know that Speedy (the cat!) hasturned out to be a great kittie! He won over our other cat's heart within 2weeks, and they romp together chasing each other all OVER the place. He hasbonded very well with my daughter who loves him to pieces, and he lets hercarry him around EVERYwhere. He lets her carry him around like a baby... inretrospect I think I knew the second I picked him up that he was the rightkitten for her. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to adopt such awonderful cat! |
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Amber the Squirrel Watcher (September 2005)
An update on Amber (vizsla hound mix), formerly known as Felicia.
She is a happy, well adjusted little girl. On her last visit tothe vet on 9/15, she weighed in at 33 lbs. She has been through severaltraining classes at Bon Clyde here in Sanford and has completedbeginning agility. She is such a smart girl. We aren't planning tocompete but this program has really helped her to overcome much of hershy, timid behavior. She enjoys our morning walks accompanied byseveral of the neighborhood dogs and also enjoys it when we visit or arevisited by our 'grand dog' who is also comes from the shelter system.She sleeps at the foot of the bed and gets me up in the morning with afew kisses and then waits for her petting and stroking to begin. Sheloves chasing the squirels in the fenced in back yard and will comeinside (through the dog door) to announce their presence and invite meto come out to see. She is great with her nail trimming, baths, earcleaning, etc. She is a wonderful addition to our family. |
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Our New Puppy (August 2005)
Things have gone well with bringing our new puppy home. She has taken a liking to her crate and slept well in it last night. Jason and her bonded well during the evening. She quickly became happy to sit in his lap for several hours. She also climbed on his neck while he was laying on the floor and fell aslept. Jason slept next to the crate all night.
Today she has been very active and playful with everyone. She is eating well and has only had one accident in the house. |
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Piper, Abby, and Baby (August 2005)
Hi all, Piper settled into her new home in no less than 1 day. She was a bit defensive the first day and night, but the next day she and Abby, our 1 1/2 yr old black and white DSH were best of friends and they grow closer every day. Piper also loves our baby TJ and he is fascinated to watch her running about and playing. We are so grateful we took a chance on adopting another precious furbaby and love our baby Piper so very much.
I think she and my son are going to have so much fun together too as they grow up with each other.
I'm attaching 2 pictures of Abby & Piper - they groom each other, sleep together, play together and I'm so glad they bonded right away. I'm glad Abby isn't lonely anymore!
Thanks for all of your help and I'll keep you updated! Please let Summer know how wonderfully Piper is doing. Kind regards,
Susan |
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Daisy, Daisy (August 2005)
Daisy had her surgery yesterday (spayed) and is doing very welltoday. She was uncomfortable, but they sent her pain meds home, so she'llhave less discomfort. Her lab work before surgery was all good, and the vetsaid everything was normal and the surgery went well. That's the longestshe's been away from us since we adopted her.
That is so funny that her sister was named Daisy too! What a coincidence!I hope she's as healthy and happy and loved as my Daisy. Thanks again!
Beverly |
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Kensi Goes to the Beach (August 2005)
Sorry it took so long to get back to you. Bridgett is now known as Kensi and she is doing great. It took no time at all for her to attach herself to me. My family was very surprised when they visited as to how good she is doing, and of course how cute she is. We just got back from our first trip to the beach. She didn't care for the water too much but loved digging in the sand and just laying under the umbrella. She is still very friendly, but we are working on getting her to stop jumping up on everyone when they come over. She is also doing very well with the housebreaking. She knows shes not supposed to go in the house. The only accident she has had in the last week was when I took an accidental nap on the couch and wasn't awake to take her out. Besides that she is doing great. She still has the same great people-loving personality and everyone loves her benji-esque! face. Thanks again for your help.
Mitch |
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Ashton Rides (August 2005)
I'm sorry that I have taken so long to get you pictures and an Ashtonupdate. He has grown so much and only took about 2 days to be comfortablehere. We take Ash with us every weekend when we visit Matt's parents'house. We wanted him to not get freaked out in the car and to stay socialized. Heloves going over there. He played with Matt's dog Foos, until she had tobe put down 2 weeks ago at the age of 16. We also just completed building him a huge cat tower. He absolutely loves it!
I love this picture. I had to put it on my desktop on my work computerbecause it is so cute. He is a sweetie!
Thanks again for everything!'Elizabeth |
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Wonderful Chester (August 2005)
Just a note to let you know that Chester (Stretch) is a truly a wonderful cat. He is so people-oriented, playful and sweet. He constantly does things to amuse and entertain us (sometimes at 4 in the morning) and is such a cuddlebug! He has shown no interest in going outdoors. We have a screened porch; he goes out there some, but his interest has waned somewhat - he really just wants to be in with us. He enjoys watching the birds and squirrels who come to the feeder in the front window. He and the dog are fine with each other; he and the other cat, too. They run around, sounding like a herd of elephants on our hardwood floors and wrestle some, too. Here are some shots of him recently.
We LOVE him! Thanks so much!
Susan and Doug |
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Sophie Sue? (August 2005)
I just wanted to let DoraSue know that Sophie (Bonnie) is doing well! She got car sick a couple of times on the way home today but I think it's because John took a couple of 'short cuts' that ended up being very windy roads. She was hilarious when I put her collar on her....she wasn't too sure about it and kept trying to pull it off. She & Maggie (our 12 year old lab/shepherd mix) have hit it off great! Maggie just sits there & watches Sophie bounce around.....Sophie gets frustrated that Maggie won't play so she gets down on her front paws with her back end up and just barks. It's too cute! We have fallen madly in love with her & will send photos soon! I'd love for DoraSue to email me so I can keep in touch. We're thinking about naming her Sophie Sue in honor of her! |
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Postcard from Moose (July 2005)
Stryker was surrendered to the Chatham County Shelter back in Nov and found a great home through the PS Adoption Center in Apex.. |
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Audrey Moves In (June 2005)
Hello! Roberta and I wanted to send you a couple pictures of Audrey. We are having so much fun with her! She has adjusted well to her new home. We are pretty sure she has gained a few pounds. It is so much fun to come home each day to someone so excited to see us.
She is a sweetheart and such a people person. Audrey has made friendswith the dog up the street and we are planning on taking her to the dog parksso she has some place to run.
Hope you enjoy the pictures!
Cindy and Roberta |
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The Propeller Plane (May 2005)
Flynn is such a wonderful addition to our household. We adopted him to be a companion to our cat, Emma. He and Emma quickly (and thankfully!) became best buds! Wherever you see one kitty, you see the other. Their favorite activity is to wait until bedtime to chase each other through the house! We laugh at Flynn's noises - he makes a funny noise just before he takes off running so he sounds a little bit like a propeller plane getting ready to take off! Vrooooom! He's very talkative and will beg for you to pet him relentlessly until you do! Then if you stop - watch out! Flynn is so sweet and cuddly and has such a wonderful personality, along with beautiful markings. We couldn't be happier that we made Flynn the new little one in our family! Thank goodness we found him!
Jamie and Jeff |
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For The Birds (May 2005)
I just wanted to write you a quick note to update you on Marty (left) and Springer (right/winking). They are awesome! They love to chase each other around the house. Springer loves to cuddle all the time; Marty only likes to cuddle when its bedtime. They both love sitting in the window in the dining room and watching the birds.
What makes us laugh is that they both love the bathroom. It is their favorite room in the house. Thank you so much for choosing us to bring them home. I cannot imagine not having them.
Dawn and Sheldon |
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The Joy of Biscuit (May 2005)
We adopted our dog from Nadean Linday who has a foster home for dogs. At the time our dogs name was Lorelei, now it's Biscuit. We can't thank you enough for all the effort in keeping these sweet animals alive. We couldn't imagine a life without Biscuit. She is so well behaved, smart and loving. She adds so much joy to our lives. She's a part of our family!
Thank you C.A.R.E. and Nadean!
Sincerely
Melody |
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Carter Gets Elected (May 2005)
Back in November, we adopted Jimmy Carter aka Carter(formerly 'Benny' when he was with CARE), a wonderful labish-looking dog, with 'some-Rhodesian ridgeback in him.' He was incredibly afraid of everything (including us) when we first got him, but after several patient months of getting to know each other, he's almost like a different dog now. He sits, gently takes treats, loves walks, hikes, and other dogs. He really wants to be friends with our cat, but that's in the cat's hands, and he's not that interested...
Bringing Carter into our lives has been such a learning experience for us, and has really taught us about the value of patience and persistence. The dog that wouldn't come out from between the couch and coffee table when we first got him now doesn't want to leave our side. |
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Two ARE Better Than One (April 2005)
Hi, my husband and I just wanted to let CARE know how much we appreciate the two sibling cats we adopted in the fall.
We discovered Marbles and Hopscotch at the shelter and Karen Pool assisted us in adoping them together. We call them Miss Mo and Scotty these days. We're utterly enthralled with them and they've brought so much to our life. Thank goodness we got them both. We heartily recommend that anyone adopting get two; the love and play they give each other is more than a human can offer-- even a human like myself who is home with them much of the time!
They're on Catster, if anyone wants to check out two of the cutest kitties around:
- Kristen
Miss Mo:http://www.catster.com/pet_page.php?j=t&i=118859
Scotty:http://www.catster.com/pet_page.php?j=t&i=136467 |
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Big Heart Over Big Fears (March 2005)
Dear Katie and Ski,
How are you and my brothers, Frazier, Jenkins and Jellybean? My new mom told me that Dinah and Duffy have found homes. I hope their families love them as much as mine loves me.
It sure was strange and sad when Mr. Ski put me in my new mom's arms and we drove to my home in the woods. I shook all the way home and, for the first hour, I didn't move from my spot in the kitchen. Wow! The first time I saw my new (or mew) brother and sister cats, Greg and Charlotte, I barked and trembled so hard that my teeth chattered. Everything was SO SCARY - the driveway, walking by new houses, going for a ride in the car, getting hugs. I had to be coaxed to do everything EXCEPT to love children. That was the only thing I wagged my tail at for the first two days.
On the third day, my mom came home from work to walk me and I wagged my tail and my behind, too! She immediately named me 'wiggle-butt' and from then on, my tail just wagged harder and harder. Then, I met my aunt Anna who taught me to get really excited about things and to play with people. Pretty soon, my new home was full of wonderful things - chewy bones, Kongs filled with cheese and my cat-sister Charlotte, who is 7 months old and loves to leap out at me from underneath chairs and tables. Pretty soon, I was playing tag and hide-and-seek with her around the house. We got in trouble for playing it on top of my parents in the middle of the night! After that, I started to sleep in a crate by my parents' bed. We all get much better rest, now.
After two months, I still have a lot of fears. My mom is real patient, though, and keeps taking me everywhere and expectingme to be fine. Pretty soon, I decide, well, if she thinks (this new thing) is no big deal, maybe it isn't scary after all! We go everywhere - the pet store, the vet, the dog park in Carrboro, for long walks and jogs, hikes in the woods and visits to new houses. Funny, wherever I go to visit, the people make a big fuss over me and give me presents and treats. I must be very special!
My mom says over and over that despite my fears, she could look in my eyes and tell that I was a dog with a huge heart and a great disposition. I follow her everywhere and sometimes, I follow so closely that I step on her heels. She says I had a great start with you and Ski, and she is so grateful that you took such good care of me when I was little. I am still growing and I have gained 10 pounds since I was adopted. And now I am micro-chipped! (I don't know what that means!) I walk on the leash at a 'heel' and come when I am called. My new friend, Miss Jean, comes every day and walks me while my mom is at work. My coat is getting redder and when my mom brushes me, my fur shines. My mom says I am exceptionally fast and athletic. I don't know what that means, but I have a great time running in and out of the trees, diving into leaf piles, playing hide-and-seek with my mother and sailing over fallen logs. My mom says I am very strong and healthy because I got such great nutrition from you watching over me.
My mom is taking me to dog school next week. I don't know what that means either, but I hope it is fun. I miss you and Ski and the boys. My mom says we will go visit you soon. So, until then, this is Luci, the quiet one. Thank you for being my first mom and giving me such a great start in life.
Love, Luci (Lucinda) |
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Goshen: Calm, Composed...and Loud (February 2005)
I just wanted to thank-you for the homemade doggie snacks- Goshen loves them, and we are working them into her new training schedule. She's got such an interesting personality... she's still quite timid about some things like loud machinery, cars, or anything wildly unfamiliar. She starts tonight in her first obedience class, and we've enrolled her mainly to build her confidence. With the exception of her puppy moments, she is so calm and composed most of the time. When she does bark, it is pretty crazy- she has the bark of an 80 pound dog! Sometimes I can not believe such a small dog can bark that loud and deep. She is very good at sit, lay down, and inside/outside commands, and she is surprisingly consistent at coming when called or whistled for. 'Kennel Up' is a pretty incredible command with her... she loves her crate, and you can tell her at any time to get in it and she will stop what she's doing the first time and trot over there, hop in, and lay down on her blanket. She's turning into quite the hound dog and loves to track the moles in the yard or dig up beetle grubs and eat them. She likes the rain and does not mind getting wet and she loves to track, kill, play with, and eat any unfortunate insect that makes it into our house.
Here are some pictures over the last 3 months so that you can see what she looks like!
Thanks again-
Martha |
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Multiple Bed Max (February 2005)
Hi Georgia Max is really enjoying the homemade cookies. I think you have discovered dog nip. Before I could open the envelope, Max was jumping up and down.
He is really doing well. He is completely house trained, so I have removed the crate. For Christmas, one of his gifts were doggy beds. He received two, one for upstairs and an identical one for downstairs. Although he won't come right out and say it, I think he likes the people bed better.
He is a little over 40 pounds now. Here are a few pictures taken after the holiday. They are not the best, but I am still trying to figure out the digital camera... |
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Seth Settles In (November 2004)
Just wanted to let you know that Seth is doing great! He is eating well(now on hard food), drinking well, and playing with the other cats all thetime. I come home sometimes and see him laying on the couch curled up in aball with the sun beating down on him. He just looks so relaxed. I am soglad that he is doing as well as he is, considering his past. He adaptedto our place and other cats VERY quickly. In fact, our kitten Jack follows himaround sometimes like he is a father figure. It's so cute!
At night he sleeps usually on my stomach or in between us under the coverswhere it's warm. He is just a great cat! I tried to take some picturesfor you, but he doesn't seem to like it too much, but I caught him a fewtimes. I'll be sure to keep you updated!
Take Care,
Shari and Josh |
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Ain't Nuthin' But a Hound Dog (October 2004)
Hi Frances,
Here are some recent photos of Bodie Eckard. He has grown so much.Although he is only 6 months old he probably weighs 65 or more pounds. Heis a big couch potato (when he is allowed up there) and thinks he is a lapdog. He loves to sit or lay with anyone who is one the couch, especially myhusband Greg or son William. We had Bodie and Annabelle 'fixed' in Augustand both are doing well. She still likes to boss him around but he haslearned that he now has size on his side and doesn't have to take herbossiness all the time. Bodie is absolutely the sweetest, most loving dog.Very gentle and happy all the time. Barks occasionally, especially ifsomeone comes to the front door and Annabelle starts barking. Otherwise heis happy to snooze (usually under my desk) while Annabelle guards thehallway by my office door. He loves to sit, shake, and lie down on command.He fetches when he decides it is worth his time and energy. But overall, heis a laid back 'hound' dog. Even barks like a hound--very deep, bayingsound. The vet said he will be a BIG dog--well over 80 pounds most likely.He loves to eat and will inhale his food so fast. I try not to feed him andAnnabelle too much, but he rushes through his food while she has barelystarted and then he sits and looks so forlorn, like he is still starving. Ibreak down and give him a little extra. What a sweetheart he is. Everyoneloves him.
Hope you found good homes for the rest of his siblings. We are sureenjoying Bodie--he is very loved and doted on. Isn't he a handsome dog?
Paula |
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Girls on the Beach (October 2004)
Hi Georgia
Here are some pictures of Bailey. We went on vacation and took the girls with us. she loved the water and playing on the beach! Health wise she is doing very well - she eats a lot, is potty trained, and even lets us know when she has to go out. She is very smart. She sleeps through the night and loves to play with Libby. They are so cute together we love watching them interact.
Hope all is well with you. Take care.
Letty |
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Dottie's Second Puppyhood (September 2004)
I'll let this picture speak for itself. Dottie has found a wonderfulhome where she can enjoy her 2nd puppyhood. Reuger, her new brother,appears very happy that his parents picked Dottie to come live withthem.
Good luck, little lady. You deserve your new wonderful home more thanany dog I know.
- Georgia, Dottie's foster mom |
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Goshen's First Night (September 2004)
Formerly known as Bailey and nicknamed 'the screamer', Goshen provesthat she was tired of being one of 8 puppies in foster care and was adarling once she found individual attention and a home on her own.Sounds like a few teenagers I know.
- Georgia
Hey Georgia--
Rather than calling, I thought I'd send you some photos! Everything isgoing very well. The first night we were home Winston met Goshen withlots of excitement and tail wagging. She spent an hour or so inspectingevery corner of the house and really enjoyed sniffing in ouryard. First night in the crate was really good- she did not fit atall... probably because she was so tired from all the excitement. Shewoke up a couple of times and promptly peed outside and she was ready toplay as soon as the sun was up!
The two of them have been playing together quite a bit, and Winston hasgraciously shared all of his toys. Goshen already has her twofavorites-- the red rope and the blue loop toy. She is eating quitewell, and knows which big bucket her food is sealed in. When she getshungry she goes and whines by the bucket! She seems to already bepicking up the outside idea- a few times she's gone to the sliding doorsand peered out- we open them, and she hops out and pees. No messes inthe house yet :)
She was a bit scared at the storm last night, so she did some seriouscrying, but she was comforted by getting in her crate and curling up allon her own. Below are some pictures-- give us a call if you have anyquestions.
She's just doing great so far... |
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Leia's Growth Spurt (September 2004)
Georgia,
Leia had her surgery yesterday. That certainly slowed her down, but sheis starting to perk up this afternoon. She weighed in at 50 pounds. Ireckon we can consider her in the 'large breed' category for puppy foodselections.
She is a great dog and behaves well in the house. We get her out a lotand she enjoys running around the fields and remote areas nearby. Wewere instructed to keep her from running for a week, so she may wonderwhy we are not letting her romp for a while.She will just have to go at Juneau's pace.
Thanks for keeping in touch. It will be interesting to see how hersisters compare in weight.
Here is a recent picture of our 'little' puppy. She is versatile in herchewing -- not just tennis balls -- and mostly sticks to the things wegive her to chew. She's doing great.--Jeff |
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Back in Black (September 2004)
It's been a banner year for black cats and I just wanted to pass along one of the latest success stories! Shelter cat 'Fiesta', aka 'Bella', was adopted as a result of someone seeing her at PETsMART. And it seems it is a match made in heaven for both. Please see below message from her new mommy.
- Karen
Bella is absolutely the best kitty in the world. Its a match made in heaven.I am definitely her mommy. She and I have bonded for sure. The first night shekneaded me to death all night long on my face, my neck, my head and sleptright next to my head pretty much all night. She follows me everywhere right on myheels and talks to me the entire time. Like you said, she chirps or peeps -it's so cute. This morning she wanted me to get up with her so she licked my eyelid untilI woke up enough to get up. But she hasn't stopped purring since I let her outof the carrying case. I'm pretty sure she isn't spayed also. I found her a Peacock feather from this flower lady in Cary and Bella thinks that it's the best thing since sliced bread!
I'm glad you found her sister a home, I feel better now. A happy ending after all.
Yeah!
Thanks and talk to you soon,
- Dori |
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Ferby Comes in from the Snow (August 2004)
Update on Ferby, the little chihuahua we found with frostbitten ears after the January 2003 snowstorm. He is enjoying the good life with his retired mom and 'sister' chihuahua Suzie.
I'm writing this letter on behalf of Ruthie who adopted Ferby, a chihauhau, a year or two ago. She adores him. She had another rescue Chihauhau named Susie who also adores Ferby. We found Susie 2 years ago and know nothing about her background. She was trying to survive in freezing temps and very emaciated. Two years later after being queen of the house, she still will not voluntarily let anyone approach her. She loves dogs but is scared of people, so Ferby is a real comfort to her. Ms B's camera is not the best. I hope you can see the dogs ok. Ms B wanted you to know how well they are doing!
From her: Hi
Sorry that I haven't written you before now but I thought I would let you hear from Ferby. He is so sweet. Susie thinks she is Ferby's mama. He will lay on his back and she washes him from head to tail. They get along good. Susie is the dark one in the picture. We are so thankful to have them. I love to see them run down back by themselves. They stay pretty close together. I love tosee them free and out on their own. (in the back yard) At night if Ferby needs to go out he will scratch on the side of the bed. (She actually gets up and lets them out at 4:00 in the morning!!!) Thank you for letting him be my baby!
I will try to let you hear again soon.
- Mrs B |
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Preston and the Kids (August 2004)
Hi Dorasue,
I want to thank you for giving Preston to us. The kids love him so much. He's getting lots of excercise and love. I have to make them leave him alone at times so that he can take his needed puppy naps. I explained to the children that he is just a baby and needs time to nap during the day. We got him new toys yesterday and he loves them. I know that yesterday was hard for you because you love him very much. I will keep you informed on his progress and will send pictures as soon as I get my scanner hooked up to my computer. Don't worry, he's in good hands! We wouldn't consider changing his name because he is already used to it, plus we like it. I'll talk to you soon.
Rhonda
Oh, he has a blanket and pillow in his crate and goes in there of his own free will when he is tired. |
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A Match for Percy (August 2004)
Actually, Ms. D DID adopt from CARE - she and her daughter took home Percy from Hill Creek today! Percy was listed as a stray/feral cat, and came here for hernia repair. We just fell in love with this little guy, and could not imagine him being a barn cat, so offered to foster him here for CARE. That same day I saw this app, contacted Ms. D, and she and her daughter met Percy Saturday. It was a great match, and they were so excited to get him today! What a great ending for this precious little kitty!
Deborah |
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The Velcro Puppy (August 2004)
From: Donna
Subject: Shelby
Nadean
I thought you might like to see some before and after pics of Shelbysince she got her summer 'do'.
I think she is doing wonderfully. She still has a few 'issues' but Ithink that's understandable with all that she has gone through. We aregetting along well. We go for walks almost ever day because she seems tolike that better than just being out in the backyard. She is still shywith new folks but warms up very quickly and then becomes a velcropuppy! But she's is gentle and very low maintenance and hardly makes asounds.
Mostly I just wanted to let you know she's okay and we're glad youhelped us find each other
thank you
donna |
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Happy Happy Jack (August 2004)
From: Janet
Subject: Happy Jack
Carolyn:
I've been meaning to write you and Drew asked me over the weekend if I hadsent you an email letting you know how Happy Jack is doing. He's doinggreat!! He is so much a part of our family now and he gives us so much love.It's exciting to get home everyday just to have someone so eager to greetyou. Drew is his best buddy and Jack sleeps with him each night (and you cantell you husband he is sleeping on a UNC Tarheels blanket). There have beenno real problems. He's chewed a few things so that keeps us on our toes tokeep anything of value or danger out of reach. He thought the trash can washis own personal treat bag so I had to buy a can with a lid.......noproblems since. He still loves that belly rub and will roll over for whoever walks by in hopes of a rub. We've been working on fetch and he'llretrieve the ball but he doesn't want to give it back......finders keepers.Drew and I are planning on enrolling him in an obedience class at Petsmartthis fall after the start of school settles down. |
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Peaches Has A Bushel of Fun (August 2004)
Pam,
I always think about sending you an update. However, I figured that if every adopter did that, your inbox would be pretty full! I occasionally go on the CARE website (curiosity ONLY!). I see that you're keeping busy.
Peaches is doing great. She fell in love with her Nutro moist and dry the first night and 'will not quit.' It was a little hectic her first 1 1/2 weeks due to the hurricane. I'm sure she was very confused about being carried to the local graveyard (the highest and most dry land) to poop and then being carried back home.
We did not get water in our house. It came within 3-4 inches of coming through the floor. We lost both of our vehicles and most everything of any value in the shed. The second storm was the 'hurricane that wasn't.' But everyone was prepared.
Peaches has discovered playing and every toy in the house. Her favorite is the AFLAC talking duck. We have gone from having one of them to four, since it is also Brad's favorite. She loves playing with her brother in the yard. She has been helping him to lose some weight (a good thing). She loves playing in the yard.
She goes on a couple walks each day but is still fearful of people walking or jogging toward her. She does not like the passing cars. She is making slow improvement. She still hides in the truck or is in constant movement (asmuch as her seatbelt will allow). But without vehicles for a while she did not get much practice. These things aside, she is great and truly seems to be enjoying life.
I had intended to go online when I arrived home to save a picture of Peaches'puppies. I waited to long and missed that opportunity. Do you know of someone that may have a photo that could be emailed to me?
Here are photos of Peaches with the Monkey that you gave her, one of her and Jessie (cat) watching the other cat, Scout, playing on the floor and Peaches and Brad resting the day after she arrived home. Hopefully, they do not cause problems with the memory on your computer.
Thank you again,
Barbara |
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One of the Mushiest Animals (July 2004)
Here's an email I received re: Georgie, the little Golden Retriever boy that had the huge hole in his neck when we pulled him from the shelter. - Katie
Dear Katie,
Hello there! I just wanted to send you an update on dear sweet Georgie (now Simba) and how well he is doing. He is one of the mushiest animals we've ever met and by the night of the first day, he and Ebony fell in love with one another. They play so hard that the other owners in the neighborhood are afraid to put their doggies in our backyard! They are about the same size now (if you can believe it) and Doctor says Simba still has some ways to go. He is so devoted and so well-behaved, just a wonderful, wonderful son that we couldn't have asked for better. Luckily he and Ebony have a fence to play in when it's nice enough out but it only takes Simba about five minutes before he wants to come inside where the rest of the clan is. He loves the neighborhood and all the children and is so great that even the small children will pet him (unlike his sister who is a wild one). The people at day care constantly love having him come because they say that he just gets along with every type of dog there is.
We just wanted to thank you so much for taking such great care of him and for saving him. He is just so wonderful and we will be eternally grateful for all your love towards him. And if he could speak, I'm sure he would say the same thing.
Thank you again,
Dani, Jim, Ebony, and Simba |
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Candy for Hayden (July 2004)
Hi Nadean,
Just thought I'd let you know that Hayden is doing fine. He and Candy were buddies from the start. She's been great with helping him get into our routine and he follows her around everywhere (which is a good thing because she's a very wise girl). Hayden's favorite playmate is Crystal, my brother and sister-in-law's Golden Retriever. They live on the other side of our pasture and Hayden and Crystal will look for each other now, and run circles around each other between the barn and my brother's house. My niece and nephew have also become big fans and look forward to playing with him. Dale (my husband) has also fallen in love with him and so far has taught him to 'sit' on request in just a couple quick lessons. And my mom, who lives on the other side of our pasture, has been spoiling him with Milkbone 'cookies' and calling him her 'grandson'. We had a neighborhood 4th of July cookout Saturday and Hayden has won the approval of all our farmer neighbors around. In other words, he has fit right in. I'm attaching some pictures: Hayden (chewing on his rawhide bone) and Dale in the living room (our usual evening spot), Haden and Candy getting Milkbones at my mom's house, Hayden and Candy exploring one of the pastures and Hayden and Candy in our yard. I thought you might enjoy seeing how he was doing.
I hope all is going well and your adopt-a-thon was successful.
Take care,
Jane |
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Marco's Shadow (July 2004)
Hello
Suzie I just wanted to give you an update on our new baby Marco. We did change his name. Andrea liked the name 'Shadow' because of the gray underneath the black.
He is adjusting very well and loves Andrea. He is sleeping with her. She says that he curls up next to her in bed at night. He definitely knows Andrea. I was holding him last night and he was just about asleep and she came down from doing her homework. As soon as he heard her voice he was wide awake and wanting her.
Shadow and Cari are doing really go together. The first night they hissed at each other more so her than him. He was very meek to her. Last night they were funny with each other. They chased each other and played leap frog. I can already tell a bit of difference in Cari. She is ready to settle down at night when we go to bed. She really just needed theactivity. I am still keeping him closed off to her during the day while we are at work. I hope after the weekend I will be able to let them play during the day also together.
I just thought you would like to know how things are going. Have a great day. |
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Emma's New Home (July 2004)
Hi. Thank you for suggesting Deb K call us about Emma. We fell in love with her instantly. She has adapted well to her new home after only two inside accidents which I attribute to nerves. She has gained more confidence each day and has already met several new friends -- human and canine. Everyone is struck by her sweet personality and comments on her beautiful eyes. I can tell she would really like to chase after the squirrels and rabbits we see on our daily walks so we're working on that!
Thanks to Deb K for fostering Emma and for the fine work of the CARE organization. We are delighted that Emma has become a part of our family and look forward to enjoying her company for many years to come.
Best wishes to you all,
Melanie |
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Roadside Andy Gets a Bed (June 2004)
Good evening Dorasue,
Well, by the time I hit the part of Hwy 64 where I was up to travelingspeed of around 65...Andy finally laid down and rested. Before that hestood or sat looking out at the scenery, it was so sad, as if he knew hewas leaving it behind. He didn't whine or anything, some occasionalnervous yawns but I was very proud of the way he traveled. When I stoppedfor gas, I opened the back and he was good and ready for some petting timeand oh, did those eyes ever melt my heart!
He's been good here, hasn't paid any mind to his dog bed in the family roombut we did put him in the crate in our bedroom just while we ate dinner. He was relctant to eat until Cade started taking kibbles out and droppingaround dish and that seems to make it more appetizing as he is now eatingour of Ford Christian's hand and mine. He's been on two walks with ustonight and is getting the smells of the neighborhood down pat. We went bya few dogs on electric fences who barked up a storm at us and Andy simplypulled towards them somewhat and looked. Didn't bark back or anything. How does he let you know he has to go out, though? He sort of barked atthe back door but it was quiet and when I got him out right away he didn'tdo anything. Let me know how to play this and in the meantime I'll keeptaking him out or for walks often enough to alleviate any urgent needs.
Guess what? I just went out to check on him b/c it was so quiet (thatusually spells trouble with the boys) and guess who is sleeping on his bedin the corner of the family room? He has explored the house but for themost part stays near one of us (he's so good with both boys ALREADY) forsome pets or possibly stray crumbs or treats.
Well, had to email you and let you know not to worry. I think you're aspecial soul to do what you do for these animals. I promise to make him agood home here with us and if ever, for some unthinkable reason, I had tofind him a new home---you and CARE would be getting the phone call. Not alikely scenerario but I want you to know I understand your desires and willfollow your wishes in the event the unthinkable someday happens. Thanks somuch--will be in touch and hope to get some pics taken, then scan them so Ican email them to you.
Take care and thanks again (and again) AND tell your husband I know fullwell what a good dog I'm getting--
DEBBIE
Update, August 2004:
Remember Roadside Andy? At my suggestion he went for 3 1/2 weeks of basictraining with Donnie. This is Andy after he returned from doggieboot camp. - Dorasue
Sometimes I let him sleep in Ford's room at night with him. Other nights he seems to like to go in his crate (if the door is left open and he can walk right in).
Sorry for being out of touch. Just been busy but everyone says what a nice dog our Andy boy is and I couldn't be happier seeing him with the boys and the boys with him.
Take care,
DEBBIE |
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An Eye for an Eye (June 2004)
This is right up there with one of the best Happy Endings and I wanted to share!
A Chatham County citizen called the shelter to pick up a very pitiful orange tabby cat that had wandered onto her property. When Floyd got there, he saw a skinny, orange male cat with a large patch of hair missing around his neck and left shoulder and only one eye. One-eyed Jack (as he became affectionately known) had a dog collar so tightly around his neck and shoulder that it had begun to rub into the skin.
Tina and Floyd saw something kind and gentle in this fellow and so spared him despite his looks and having only the one eye.
I am pleased to relate that 'Jack' has found a wonderful home due to Stacey thinking on her feet. She told a friend who already has a cat with one eye about him and it was love at first sight! They are doing well and the following is a brief update. Yeah!!!!
- Karen Thought you might appreciate a 'Jack' update, his name will continue to be 'Jack'. Catherine (his mom) adores him. Today, he went to Hill Creek for his check-up and neutering. He tested negative for Leukemia and AIDS (yea!!!), but he does have a upper resp. infection so the put him on an antibiotic and will wait to neuter him. The URI is causing his 'good' eye to drain.
Catherine says that he is doing fabulous....he's very comfortable and content. I'm sure that once he's feeling 100% they will enjoy one another even more!Thank you for spreading the word on him. She could not be happier. They are both lucky!
Stacey |
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Kentucky Derby (May 2004)
This once again is Kona, adopted from me last year. He is a pampered pooch!
Frances
Dear All,
As you can see from the attachment, Kona was ready to compete but alas, the Derby is for three year olds and he is only one.
We had a great time at our friends Dave and Trish's Derby party, though our horses didn't win, place or show.
Love,
John and Suzie |
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Daisy, Daisy, ... (May 2004)
Daisy was rescued from the middle of the highway with her sister, Sadie, both of whom were malnourished and tick-ridden.
- Katie
As you can see from the attached photo she is happy and healthy and quickly endeared herself to whole family. She survived a 16 hour road trip at Thanksgiving and is happiest when surrounded by her adoring family.
I recently started working from home and she is great company; though she hasn't mastered completing my expense reports, she is always eager to take a walk with me up the road to drop packages in the FedEx box. She loves to take long walks but is also content to snooze while we watch TV. She is socialable with other dogs and has many 4-legged friends in the neighborhood. She always draws praise for her good nature and we always share the great work done by CARE, encouraging friends and acquaintances that if they want a dog they need to look at the CARE website.
Sincerely,
Nick Allen |
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Jake and Cricket (May 2004)
Hey Dorasue,
Just happened to be thinking about you :-) so I think I'd drop you an email to say that Jake is getting along great. When Cricket returned home after her stay at the Doggie Spa, she seemed much happier and more ready to accept Jake as her new buddy; must have been hanging out w/ a *lot* of other dogs for a wk+ as they let those that 'play nice' play together in a big yard. Anyway, though they don't fawn over each other, they do chase each other around the yd more now. They are obviously comfortable with each other. I think Jake would give Cricket space if she snapped at him, but she doesn't and he often sort of half lies on her if she's on her pillow and he wants to lie there, too. I had them both in the truck the other day and Cricket was lying on the seat taking up most of the space, so Jake just laid down on top of her and she didn't seem to mind at all; quite funny. :-D
We've been taking them both up to Smith Mtn Lake with us every wkend as we go up to work on the condo. Cricket generally lies in the footwell at my feet and Jake generally sits up on the seat between Carl and me. He sometimes tries to lie down on the seat, but he's really too big to fit on it lying down. :-D Sometimes he partially lies in our laps. We sort of look like the Culhanes going to town. :-D We put some cardboard in the back of the truck (it has a camper shell on it) and they don't mind riding back there, but we usually have too much stuff back there for them to fit. Jake really likes to look around when he rides and gets all excited when he sees a horse or cow or something in a field. I'll say 'look Jake' and he seems to understand that I'm trying to point out something interesting and he looks all around eagerly; too funny. :-D
He minds us a little better now, but he's still got quite a mind of his own. I thought he must have gotten out the other night after we called and called him and didn't hear one peep. Turned out he'd just gotten interested in something in a hole in the back and had his nose stuck in that and had no intention of paying any attention to us. We've been working fast and furiously on this condo every wkend, so Carl hasn't had time to finish the new fencing yet. So they are both staying in the mini-pen during the day. We've got some friends doing some rock veneering on the house right now and they stay out of the mini-pen while Randy is there. Randy and Glenda love dogs and Jake and Cricket both seem to like having them around during the day.
Jake has gotten himself into a little trouble a couple of times at the condo. Once he dashed out of the door after being commanded to stay. Carl dashed out after him and when he realized Carl was chasing him, he made a big circle and ran as fast as he could *back* to the condo. I think Carl runs faster than Jake does! It was funny to watch the chase. :-D Carl scolded him pretty severely and he *really* doesn't like to be scolded (it hurts his feelings terribly). So, pretty much every time now, all we have to do is say 'stay' and he backs right up.
The other trouble he got into was taking a dump *4* different times downstairs on the carpet in the condo! You're right that he'll tell you when he wants to go out...but he *always* wants to go out! So, we can never tell when he just *wants* to go out and when he *needs* to go out, as he whines fairly constantly when he's in and we're around (as opposed to when we're sleeping, when he's great). So, his freedom to roam the condo unattended got severely cut after the 1st couple of trips! Carl periodically takes a break from working and takes him on these *long* walks (he won't go if it's just a short walk) and the pattern has pretty much become that he won't go until the 2nd day we're there (though he broke that pattern once, so Carl doesn't trust him on *any* day now :-).
The tick situation must be bad this yr, because we've found more ticks on both Jake and Cricket already this yr than we found on *both* Jasper and Cricket *all* of last yr. We just put some more Top Spot on 'em last wk, so hopefully that'll help the situation.
Carl hasn't forgotten about your collar either. He's looked a couple of times for one of those flat ones that attaches directly to the collar and couldn't find one (at PetsMart and another of those places). We hope to have our weekly work at the condo finished over Mem Day wkend and we'll try to find one after that and get your collar back to you. :-)
Hope you've had some nibbles for Andy, though I see he's still listed on the CARE site. I told Andrew he should adopt him, but before he even got a chance to think about it, he and Susie picked up another stray at a service station. They call her Rose and Andrew has her at his house right now. She has heartworms and they're having her treated right now.
Hope you enjoyed the Jake update. :-) and, though he can be a little annoying and give us a little scare sometimes by not paying any attention to us calling him, Carl frequently says while petting him, 'Dorasue was right. He really is a big, handsome love-a-muffin.' and he really is! :-)
Take care,
Mary E.
PS--Mr Bear and Mr Duck are still surviving and Jake still loves giving themplenty of attention. :-) |
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Letter from Madi (May 2004)
Dear Foster Mom-Katie,
I was laying around on the bed with my new Mommy this afternoon watching some T.V. when I decided I should write you.
This apartment thing is a little smaller than I bargained for, but I am getting used to it. I get to go outside a lot and there is always someone walking with me! Cool, hey? I miss the big yard a little, but I get to spend lots more time in the a/c now. My new uncle has 3 friends I get to go play with every week at their house where they have a yard. Their names are Murphy (husky), Charlie and Jewel (Australian Shepherds). Jewel is a real 'female dog', he-he, so I love to play with the boys. They wrestle good!
I have two of my own beds, and I occasionally use them. They're not too bad. One is under the dining room table where I like to lay and chew while they have dinner and I wait for something to drop and I can grab. I do like the King size air mattress in the bedroom best though. Daddy's side is too soft, I like Mommy's side better.
I just LOVE going for rides in the car. It totally rocks!! I got to go to PetsMart twice so far and picked a toy every time to bring home. I also got a bath and grooming at their salon last Sunday. I made my new Mommy sneeze too much, I guess. :-)
I have included some pictures my Mommy took of me for you. You can put them on the C.A.R.E. website if you want. Mommy makes me crazy with the camera. She always takes pictures of me. Hopefully she will get used to me soon and stop all the flashing in my eyes. LOL
Well that is about all the news for now. I am doing O.K. on the 'house training/pooping on a leash thing. I had some accidents in the house but my Mommy does not get upset. She just gets this big, loud machine that sucks it up when I am done. I am not too fond of the vacuum and carpet cleaner but I am getting used to them. (Mommy cleans a lot.) I am also not too fussy about my leash anymore. I chewed one harness off and they tossed it in the trash. Now I have a new collar that I like better.
I hope all the friends back there are doing well! Talk to you soon.
Mardi |
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Happy Cappy (April 2004)
Cappy was an eight pound pup in the Chatham shelter in January and he found a wonderful home three weeks later. Here he is at ten weeks and then at five months. |
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A Good Friday for Tasha (April 2004)
From: Dorasue
Tasha has been adopted! Tina said Tasha was a true blessing for her. She had been searching for a pet. To be adopted on Good Friday just makes the hair stand up on my arms. This was just ment to be.
She is telling her friends at Fearrington about us and how we need donations. Her daughter from N.Y. is coming to visit this summer and Tina said she wants us to help her find a dog.
From: Nadine
I am the person who picked up Tasha from the missionaries whose brother just died the night before in Greensboro. It was such a load off the minds of the missionaries that we were willing to come to help in their time of need and sorrow. Tasha meant the world to her former owner who died from liver cancer. I think we have been blessed with these donations because we really came to the aid of these kindhearted people. Tasha's owner died in peace knowing that his brother would find the right place for his beloved dog. When they searched for a home for her, we were there to help. Their eyes spoke deeply of their gratitude to us. Now through Dorasue's diligence, Tasha can start over with another devoted master. She will receive loving care in her declining years. The moral of this story is: If you do a good deed, it will come back to bless you multifold. Blessings just come packaged in different ways. |
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MinPin, MaxFun (April 2004)
Emmylou d04123kw (who is actually EllieMay) has been adopted via the website, and is now in a wonderful home in High Point with her new 8 year old MinPin brother, Rudy (picture attached). They LOVE each other, play fun games, take naps on the picnic table together, and snuggle up with their mom and dad to sleep. |
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Beezy and Buddy's Saga (March 2004)
03/15/2004
Just wanted to followup on the happy endings for Beezy and Buddy, the two Boston Terriers that were at the shelter for neglect...
Shannon got them out of the shelter Friday, after securing a foster space for them with a wonderful lady in Concord. She then made the drive down to Concord to meet the woman at the vet hospital there, where she also works. They whisked Beezy and Buddy off for numerous tests and found that they were in pretty poor health. Unfortunately, not a big surprise after looking at those two.
Shannon told me that Beezy was talking to EVERYONE in the room. ARR ARR ARR'ing as she always did, explaining all that has happened to her, and making sure that everyone was paying attention!!
These two souls are now sleeping in a warm home where the rest of the time they have left will be spent being loved and comforted.
Carrie
03/16/2004
Fortunately the Boston Terriers were released to us [Chatham County Animal Shelter] on 3/10 by the judge. Unfortunately all monies and fees were remitted because the animal owner has no job; no money and is living in a women's shelter. The AC Division is now stuck with over approx. $1000.00 in fees and vet bills! That does not include the fact that the taxpayers money in court fees were lost too. The owner received 25 hours of community service and the judge expects her to pull this service at the animal shelter no less. I don't think so.
The woman who allowed her dog to freeze to death. All monies remitted and she can't own a dog for 2 years. The judge actuallygave us a choice. He would fine her the $50.00, sentence jail time suspend that and assign community service or not own a dog for 2 years. Couldn't get it all?? Such a tremendous waste.
I hope anyone who reads this now comprehends why we are so reluctant to take cases into the court room.
- Randie
03/17/2004
Randie, Michael and all,
As frustrating as it may be to not always get the outcome you would like in an animal cruelty case, consider the following:
With the exception of the dog for whom it was too late, 'Breezy', 'Buddy', 'Princess' and the rabbit are alive and well because of what you did. Princess sits in a cage at PetsMart right now, healthy and active and certain to be adopted soon. B & B are in good hands. All because of what you did.
Based on how I read your comments, the two defendants have criminal convictions which will follow them for life because of what you did.
One defendant cannot own animals for two years--a condition which you guys get to oversee. So for at least two years you have the authority to ensure that she does not own, possess and abuse any more animals.
Working in the criminal justice system is always frustrating. It's the nature of the work. But, as a prosecutor, I learned a long time ago that it isn't about winning, losing or saving taxpayers money (fines go to the schools), it is all about doing justice for the victims. And you have done that.
Merely taking the animals and not prosecuting the owners would have taught the defendants nothing. And the community would not have known that you are serious about not tolerating cruelty to animals. That will help animals in ways that you will never know about, because it acts as a deterrent.
You may need to focus some attention on educating your prosecutors and judges, but never forget where these animals would be if you had not acted. It is always worth doing! And thank you all for doing it.
- Joan |
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Good Night, Jolie (March 2004)
I just wanted to tell everyone how happy I am with the kitten (well, she's almost a cat now) I adopted from CARE last fall. Her name was Jolie and she was fostered by Martha. Now she's Laila Tov, which means Good Night in Hebrew. She's an all black kitten and I adopted her on Rosh Hashannah, the Jewish New Year, so a Hebrew name seemed appropriate. She is a constant joy, a sweet, loving kitten, who gets along with our other cat and loves our dog. Thank you to everyone who had a hand in taking care of her until she found her home with me.
- Deborah |
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Tartan: Shelter to Petsmart to Forever Home (March 2004)
Tartan was one of the shelter cats that went to Petsmart this month.
Hey Karen,
Tartan is doing GREAT, we made the right decision on getting him, he is the most loving cat I have ever had. As of today he has full access to the house, he went to the animal clinic on Friday morning, he had a check up and blood work done, he is healthy and happy.
I am so thankful to have been able to adopt him, we did not want to change his name since he already had that name, we call him Tarter for short.
I will keep you posted, Thank you again for your help. So glad to hear that all the other cats found homes.
Wade |
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Sweetie and Sally (February 2004)
Hi Pam and Frances,I just had to give you an update on Sweetie after I went to visit my sisters in Virginia over the Christmas holiday.
Sweetie seems to be so happy with my sister, Sally, and Sally has been transformed! I never thought I'd see the day when Sally would adopt a dog.And to see them both so happy is wonderful. I actually witnessed Sweetie licking Sally's face and Sally just giggled and smiled and said how much she loved Sweetie (Sally would hardly pet a dog, before, much less let one lick her!). Sally has become so much more relaxed, is much easier to get along with, and generally seems so happy. I think it is all due to Sweetie - they needed each other. Sally told me that she has been forced to be more outgoing and talk to people when she is out walking Sweetie. On Christmas day, there were two presents for Sweetie on the doorstep from some of her admirers...Boomer, and Molson. Hee haw! She's very popular.
Here's a picture...Sally takes Sweetie with her everywhere (this is at Judy's house - Judy lives a few miles from Sally). Pam, I thought you'd appreciate this one. At first Sally said she wasn't going to let Sweetie on the furniture. That lasted about 2 days. Then she said she wasn't going to allow Sweetie to sleep with her. After about a week, Sally started carrying Sweetie up the stairs at bed time. (Now Sweetie can get up and down the stairs by herself).
I just had to let you know how Sweetie has changed Sally's life. I really mean it! And Sweetie couldn't have ordered a nicer home - she is very well cared for and loved.
Oh, and btw, Sweetie's favorite treats are carrots (especially the baby carrots). She's such a weird dog!
Hope you guys are well. Happy holidays!
- Nancy |
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In Perfect Harmony (February 2004)
Hey Karen! Wanted to drop you a line and let you know how Harmony is doing. She is a WONDERFUL cat. My husband and I both really love her. She seems to be recovering more from her surgery and is getting used to her surroundings. She starting to venture downstairs more to be with us...even if the dog is around. She's starting to ignore the dog and is even getting playful. She hasn't played much since she's been here, but then she basically came here, we left for the holiday...she went to Petshotel...then she had surgery. So now she's pretty much getting used to the place. She is definitely a lap cat...as soon as you make a lap, there she is! She's in my lap right now as I type, rubbing my arm and begging for petting.
And we are VERY proud of her as she caught a mouse in our house last night!! She finally has earned her keep...heehee. She got loads of treats and petting after that...we've had a little mouse problem off and on, more so when the weather gets cold. Go Harmony!! Between her and our terrier, I think the mice will be thinking twice now!
Anyway, she's doing great, we totally love her and can't imagine her not being around. And you're right...she's very vocal. I think I'm learning her different meows. I have to go now...Harmony is insisting I pay attention to her...
Laura |
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Do You Want To Go For A Ride? (January 2004)
Another wonderful happy ending. And to think, this is the same dog that had to be placed in the car, kicking and screaming, and would shake until she got out of the car. Amazing what the right socialization can do!
- Pam
Pam-
Hello! Sorry it has been so long since we updated you on Brenda. She is more than any dog person could ever wish for!! She is a joy and has a wonderful nature! By taking her on frequent short car rides over to the park, we have created a car 'monster.' When in the house, all we have to do is ask her, 'Do you want to go for a ride?' She sprints to the door and sits and wait to be harnessed up. She jumps right in on her own and sits calmly on the back seat. While at the park, her favorite thing to do is chase birds and squirrels. We also always take her to see the kids and they always love to pet her. She responds very well and after a little initial fear, she licks their hands and wags her tail. We recently took her out to the park in the snow and she was like a snow plow. We took her off her leash for the first time there and she went head strong into burying her nose and running around. It was hilarious! She is absolutely brillant. We are getting ready to sign her up for dog training, but in the mean time have been teaching her a few tricks. She can sit, lay down, and we are working on shaking and standing. We spent Christmas at Brian's parents, who absolutely adored her and wanted to keep her. She was a perfect dog the whole time, expect for the one incident in which she had a little turkey and mashed potatoes, I don't think she stopped licking her lips the whole night, haha. Brian and I wanted to know what your address is so that we can send you a few pictures of her. We would like to thank you for choosing us to be her parents.
Thanks-
Cindy and Brian |
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Rufus Rehomed (January 2004)
Just wanted to update all on the two declawed cats that needed rehoming (they lived with toddler and had stopped using the litterbox). Diane had requested an older cat a while back and she adopted the male buff tabby, Rufus, from these folks. Apparently, a very good match! Yeah!
Good things do happen!
- Karen
Hi All!
Oh, do I ever love Rufus. He has settled in wonderfully. My 3 year old cat has accepted him well, the 1 year old tends to avoid him, I think he looks like a giant to her because she is a miniature cat only about the size of a 6 month old kitten. There were growls and hisses when I first let him out from the containment room but that has all stopped.
He has truly made himself at home, eats with the other two with no problems, loves to sleep in the closet on a pillow in one of those closet organizers metal shelving units but now hangs out with us in the common living areas all the time. He chases after toy mice and other silly toys I have, he's a hoot.
I just want to thank you all for your part in Rufus becoming a part of my life...THANKS!
- Diane
Diane, I am so glad that you were able to find the perfect cat for you and at the same time, give Rufus the loving home he deserves. Maybe the couple you adopted Rufus from will now be able to handle the other kitty as a single. Thanks for following up on his situation. He seems like a wonderful kitty! Glad to have been able to help!
- Karen Pool, CARE
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Fiona Finds the Sun (January 2004)
Remember Fiona, the little whippet mix I pulled from the shelter? Here's an update and picture on her cute self! Somehow, I was able to find the PERFECT person for her just when I thought she was going to be here forever!
- Katie
Hey Katie! Hope you are doing well. Fiona and I are getting along great!!
Back in December, we moved to a townhome. Just about every neighbor in the cul-de-sac has a dog. So, Fiona has been making lots of new friends. Despite the winter weather, we continue to get out quite a bit. Yesterday, we went to Columbia, SC for a hike. Fiona did 5 miles - no problem. She rides in a crate in the car.. During the day, she stays home with full run of the house. She follows the sun throughout the day....lying in its rays by the windows and sliding glass door. Although she is still nervous around groups of new people, she tends to warm-up quickly. When company is over, she definitely wants to be in the room with everyone.
We spent our first weekend apart last Saturday and Sunday. Fiona stayed at a friend's boarding facility. Since she gets along so well with other dogs, she was able to stay inside the house with the operators and several of their dogs and clients' showdogs. She curled up with a Pointer named Laker on the couch. When she was out in the exercise area, she ran and played with THREE borzoi. I was told that she easily kept up with them. She slept for two days straight after returning home.
Keep in touch!!!
Jeannie and Fiona |
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Jethro: One Man's Best Friend (December 2003)
I adopted out Jethro in June of 2002, it's nice to hear back from adopters! He was a goofy two-shoes, large, counter-surfing GR mix. Kelly is their other dog.
Pam
Hi Pam,
I have been meaning to write to you for a long time. If you don't remember me, I adopted Jethro. My wife Kevan and I did. He has a new name, Jackson, I may have told you, and he makes me smile everyday. I have never had a dog that acts so much like a human, but Jackson is definitely as close as it gets. He was my best friend in the world while my wife was deployed this past year. Kelly has learned as much as she can from Jackson. She still has a ways to go. Anyway, I wanted to drop you a line and let you know he is doing great. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season.
Bruce |
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Beauty Before Age (December 2003)
I just wanted to give you a brief update on Beauty. We are enjoying every minute with her. We don't have any complaints. Adopting an older dog has been great - no chewing, no begging, and no accidents. She loves going on walks and actually won't go to the bathroom unless she's on a long walk! Our yard will appreciate that! She's a bit apprehensive about going up to the second story. She likes to stay downstairs which isn't a problem at all. We have been able to change her eating to the afternoons quite easily. We are changing her name to Aussie and it's starting to sink in. We hope to start obedience training within the next week or two once she gets used to her name.
Tracy |
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Prissy and Gracie...Precious and Adorable (November 2003)
I wanted to give you an update on Prissy and Gracie. Both kitties are doing fabulous! You should see them. They have grown quite a bit (Prissy weighs in at 6 1/2 lbs and Gracie at 5 1/2 lbs.). They both had their surgery on September 26 or 27 (whichever day is a Friday) and did marvelously. I took vacation to stay home with them but after the initial sleep medicine wore off, they were both live wires. It was hard to keep them still and from jumping up on everything.
They are completely recovered now and are running around like a couple of wild Indians. They LOVE each other and when you see one you usually see the other close behind. They have a couple of favorite toys --- Teenie Beanie Babies --- that they carry around the house in their mouths (probably like they would their own babies). They are precious! The Beanies end up in the strangest places. Most afternoons when we get home from work, the Beanies are 'deposited' somewhere in our bedroom (usually in the middle of the bed). They must be 'showing off their prize catches.'
Prissy has the most beautiful coat and fluffy tail. She is definitely part Maine Coon and plays the 'Prissy' part very well. When she gets mad about something, that tail fluffs out and looks almost as large as she is. Cute!
Gracie is beautiful as ever. She sits gracefully in the window box (inside the dining room window) that my husband, Sawyer, built for them. Whenever we pull up in the yard, she is waiting in the window for us.
Both girls love the bathroom sink. They jump up there in the evening as if to say, 'I need to brush my teeth for bed too.' And in the mornings when I am getting ready for work, they are right in my sink trying to catch water coming out of the faucet. They love to get between the outside shower curtain and the inside liner and walk along the edge of the tub while I take a shower. Gracie has been known to get IN the shower (at the end where the water doesn't reach) while I'm in the shower! Imagine that! She's a mess.
They love to get up on the computer when I am working. Gracie sits on my lap and Prissy lays on the side table, basking in the sunlight streaming in the windows.
We have lots of deer that eat in our yard and the cats don't know what to make it them. When we first saw them sit up straight, jump on the end table and stand erect while looking out the window, we didn't know what to make of it. Then, one day we looked out. Lo and behold, deer were outside the window eating. Those cats certainly are smart!
Well, enough bragging for now. Just wanted to 'catch you up' on the girls. Thank you both for allowing us to adopt them. They are precious and adorable and we can't imagine our life without them! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
Sue and Sawyer |
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Homer at Home (November 2003)
Hi Katie and Ski! Sorry for the very long delay in writing. Our first year with Homer has gone by so fast! During the summer, Homer enjoyed being outside with me while I studied. This fall, he's been joining us for our semi-monthly trips to Virginia for football games. Homer stays with my folks on the farm, where he plays with their Briard, Australian Cattle dog mix and terrier mix dogs and on occassion, my sister's Briard and Beagle. He has a blast! Homer has overtaken our hearts! As I write, he's laying next to me sound asleep with his hacky-sack safe in his paws. I do hope his siblings are as loved and happy as he is. Just today he traveled with us to Virginia to visit Mark's family. Homer is loved by all; he's very talented at giving big kisses and making everyone feel his love. To date, Homer weighs 40 pounds and has grown a beautiful plume of hair on his short tail. I can't bear to cut this 'puppy' hair!
I have been working on a 'happy beginnings' story as our first anniversary approaches. I think of Homer as a happy beginning instead of a happy ending. He really has brought so much love to our home. He's become very adept at stealing covers from us, chasing squirrels and morning doves, and giving me morning backrubs (he wakes me by prancing on my back)! He and Mark greet me each morning with coffee and snuggles. Thank you for making our home complete with Homer!
Big Hugs from Homer and his family! |
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Wonderful World of Disney (November 2003)
Cindy, how wonderful! Thanks for letting me know. He was a great fellow. Couldn't have done it without Siamese Rescue! Yeah!!!! Cat fosters, Disney was the siamese mix boy of Carrie's that ended up at the shelter a few months back. He ended up going to Virginia to the Siamese Rescue center there and finally is adopted! Just thought some might remember him.
--Karen
Karen,
Just wanted to let you know that Disney finally got adopted! There were a lot of emails flying today as the volunteers who had gotten to know him both rejoiced for him and were sad to see him go. He was quite the popular snuggle bug at the main center. He never met a lap he didn't like. :-) Such a wonderful boy. I am so glad he has found his forever home!
Cindy |
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Valentine Wins Title...and Hearts (October 2003)
I adopted Valentine(a shepherd mix puppy) around Valentine's day in 2002. This past weekend she earned her first UKC Ag1 title. This was her first competition and she earned a title. She has been a joy in our life and we can never repay all of the love and happiness she brought to our family when we needed it most. Thanks again for everything you do for these animals.
Sincerely, Beth |
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Wade and His New Pal, Stan (September 2003)
Hi Karen,
Sorry it has taken me so long to get some pictures to you. The cute things always happen when I don't have the camera. We are all doing very well. Wade is integrating very well, and Stan and him have started experimenting with physical contact. They are totally comfortable around each other, but purposeful touching is slow-coming. He really is working out great. I have figured out that while laying in bed, when he starts making biscuits right up at my neck that I can turn over really slowly to get a back massage.
Well, I just wanted to give you an update. I hope you have been successful with your other adoptions.
Thanks, Betsey |
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Lindy Loo Horse Poo (September 2003)
This is Belinda, woods pup, with new name (hah)! - Pam
Lindy Loo Horse Poo is doing very well...she has found her voice and now barks to go out...to come in...when the cats are looking at her...when Shorty is in her way...when a leaf falls...its rather cute. She is also doing well in obedience class. We still have the occasional 'meltdown' where she gets overwhelmed and sits on my feet braced up against my legs for reassurance...or tries to drag me to the car to go home =) She still is an early bird...wakes up around 5 in the morning...now has Shorty on her schedule so he is squirming and rolling around on the rug and 'shnerfulling' and 'warfulling' to go out early also. We have discovered some new playmates, a friend has a couple of golden retrievers and we went over for playtime and a nice walk. Lindy still is fearful of cars but settles back into the curious puppy mode rapidly. She has discovered that Munch the old terrier isn't as hostile as Shorty can be (although he tries...just has fewer teeth). Although he is now having breathing problems so I don't know how things will progress. Lindy likes to see what he has hidden in his dog bed and roots around him. I will try to get some more pictures and send them on...She has really filled out, is almost 46 lbs! I'll keep you posted, Mary |
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Marketing a Chessie (September 2003)
Hi Mary Lou,
My name is Carrie Griffin, and I'm a volunteer/foster with Chatham Animal Rescue & Education in Pittsboro, NC. I go to the shelter a couple of times a week to take pictures, and do what I can to get the animals out of there. Unfortunately, they are overcrowded and euthanize once and sometimes twice a week.
There is a beautiful owner surrendered Chessie in the shelter that can be put down at any time. He is about 8 months old, and the owners said that he is good with kids and other animals. I have a not so great picture of him that I'll attach.
If you're interested, please have someone call the shelter asap, and/or go there to see him. He seems like a wonderful dog, and I'm afraid he may be out of time.
Thanks so much for your help, Carrie Griffin
Hi Carrie-
Thanks so much for your email. I admire your drive in continuing to help these animals. I spoke with a kind and helpful gentleman at the shelter regarding the young male Chessie. He feels he has Rotti in him too which makes me a little uneasy just because I don't have experience with that breed BUT he also says his disposition is wonderful. I haven't spoken with Mary yet but my plans are to travel to Pittsboro on Thursday to check himout. I will make room in my home if he seems a fit..and the gentleman at the shelter says he would be safe until then.
Thanks again, MaryLou
Hi Mary Lou,
Thank you so much for at least considering this guy. You are wonderful for coming to check him out.
Please let me know if I can be of any help.
Thanks so much! Carrie
Hi Carrie-
Just thought you would like to know that your hard work and caring paid off! 'Bear' the Chessie in Pittsboro is at home with me as of yesterday afternoon. He has had a bath and looks beautiful. He adores my 9 year old daughter and gets along with my other Chessie. It will be no problem to foster him until I find his permanent home. That is unless, we fall for him. My husband and daughter already have! The older gentlemen at the shelter was happy for him too and let me bring him back to Charlotte on the contingency that I have him neutered here. Wish I could have fostered them all!
Best to you, MaryLou |
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Hurricane Hazel (September 2003)
Well its been near about three weeks since the eye of Hazel settled over the Goldsboro area. All have adjusted rather well as long as things go her way, Her favorite past time is playing - when she gets restless then she wants to play, then as she begins to tire she tends to want to play.
She is getting used to a daily routine in which she comes in and jumps on my chest about 5:45 just to make sure I am up in time to take her for a morning walk, then she settles in for a little breakfast and a nap. I come home at noon and we go for a walk and play for a while. At 3:30 'mommy ' comes home and it is wide open time for an hour or so. About the time she settles down then I come home and it's time to play again. She has got all the toys I could imagine a puppy ever needing, yet one of her favorites is playing with tennis balls in the back yard. She has learned to bring them back and will run for them as hard as her little legs will carry her. She has become fond of the little kiddie pool in the back yard - she finds that it is easier to blow bubbles with her nose if she stands in it.
Yesterday was her first doctor appointment, and she did really well and got a clean bill of health. We got heart worm pills and flea drops to keep her on schedule. She has gained 5 pounds (23.1).
Everyone we come across just loves her because of her unique looks. She is also becoming protective of her territory. She will bark (which, by the way, is becoming quite distinguished) at anyone or anything that comes near the yard. Heck, she will even bark in the house at 2:00 a.m. (I think sometimes she is just doing that to hear herself).
Hazel also loves to ride, and she goes every chance she gets. Last weekend we went to Grand Ma and Grand Pa's house. Grand Pa loves her, so does Grand Ma...she just doesn't know how much yet. It is fun to watch the people at a stop light when they look and see Hazel sitting up proud and looking at them.
We have done so much the past weeks, like learn to dig a hole in the yard. I took pictures of this, but Mommy is not quite as proud of this accomplishment as I was (it's not like she will fill in the hole). Tomorrow we are going to the garden spot festival in La Grange, so we look to have a good time. Hazel has brought us a lot of happiness the past few weeks, and we are adjusting to each other a lot better than we could have hoped. I will have to go now, it seems that one of my shoes has disappeared and I have all ideas who might be able to show me where it is at.
Take Care
Jerry and Cathy |
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Maine Coon Now Main Man (September 2003)
Hi, I'm a volunteer from CARE. There is a wonderful, huge Main Coon cat at the Chatham County Animal shelter.
Please call them soon--he doesn't have much time left.
Thanks for your interest, Audie
Hey Audie,
Thanks for telling me about the Maine Coon at the Chatham Animal Shelter. I went down and adopted him this morning. He is at work with me right now, hanging out under my desk. He is such a beautiful, sweet boy. I feel even better knowing I saved his life. Thank you so much.
Sincerely, Jill |
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Leelu and the Dog Park (September 2003)
Melanie,
It's been a while since we last talked, but Kelley and I wanted to give you an update on Leelu. She is doing very well and growing up very fast. She is 17.5 pounds now (she was less than 10 when we first got her!). We're going to weekly puppy classes at Petsmart and are about half way through the course. She gets to go to the Durham Dog Park (http://www.durhamdogpark.org/) at least a few times a week and socialize with lots of other dogs. The dog park is less than a quarter mile from where we live, so it's real convenient. She is for the most part potty trained and rarely has accidents inside anymore. We took her to be spayed and micro chipped this week at our local vet. She's a little subdued right now (cute blue lampshade collar and all), but she should be her normal playful self again within a week. We've got the form for the sterilization deposit and will send it on to CARE.
Leelu has made a real happy impact on our family and we want to thank you for being there as her 'first family'. Attached is a PDF slide show of some pictures. Let me know if it doesn't display right on your computer and I can send them as individual picture files.
-Matt and Kelley |
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Nutmeg Goes to School (September 2003)
Hi Melanie,
Nutmeg has been doing great. She has settled into our home and adjusted really well. During the week while we are at work, she spends time with my mother-in-law. She has learned the sound of our garage door opener and always greets us at the door when we get home, jumping up and down in what looks most like a bucking bronco. At night and on the weekends, she follows us around the house. She loves to spend time outdoors, especially now that the weather is getting nice, and makes good use of the dog door and our yard.
We take Nutmeg to an 'obedience' class once a week. She recently graduated from her 'beginner' class and is now in a Canine Good Citizenship class. She is responding well to the training, and was able to walk around on leash last week interweaving with about 7 other dogs without trying to go and play with all the other dogs. The obedience school, Triangle Training Center, also has play sessions on Saturday from 1-3 which Nutmeg absolutely loves. Since we don't have another dog, these sessions provide a good opportunity for Nutmeg to play and socialize with other dogs. This is working real well - Nutmeg no longer barks when she sees a dog she doesn't recognize and doesn't seem to pull quite as much in an effort to go and visit.
We've recently been working with Nutmeg on letting us touch her ears. She *really* hates it when someone touches her ears, especially near the ear canal. I'm not sure the cause of this - I suspect someone in her past pulled on her ears, although it might be due to a bad ear infection. She will now let us pet the top of her head without trying to duck away, but we still can't touch the insides of her ears. This seems to be a fearreaction which seems to be getting better as Nutmeg gains trust and confidence.
I'm attaching a few pictures of Nutmeg which we've taken over the last week or so. One is of Nutmeg playing around in our yard - she has the classic 'play with me' head down and tail up position, and her coat looks wonderful in the sun.
Roy |
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Biscuit and Maggie and Lots of Play HEDates (September 2003)
Another happy ending to add. These were my beagle pups, Pixley (now Biscuit) and Piper (now Maggie).
Good to hear from you! (It took me a minute to get your name and Biscuit together!)....Biscuit is a doll! She's going for obedience training the next time a class starts and she's 'nearly' potty trained....I must say, she's keeping me jumping (running, more like it!) We just got back from visiting Maggie (she spends every Tuesday with Maggie and Helen) and some nights when I feel she needs to let off steam we run over to visit. They are SO funny together...Maggie is definitely the alpha dog!
Biscuit is intimidated by the cows but likes to smell noses with them. They like her better than she likes them....they are a bit large to suit her.
We are both enjoying our girls. I asked Helen tonight if she was glad she got Maggie and she said she didn't know what she'd do without her.
Biscuit got spayed several weeks ago (she went into heat way before Maggie...who still has not gone into heat)....Biscuit now weighs about 30 lbs. and Maggie is the petite little prissy girl.
I hope you survived the storm. We were without power until about a couple of hours ago. Biscuit spent her time chewing up toys!
You're doing a great job finding these babies homes. The vet said we couldn't be better matched! I know each and every one is appreciative of you! Keep up your caring work and stop by to see us after work someday (I get home every day except Tues at 6:15)....or on the weekend!
Jo Anne |
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Two Cats with Quirks, Please (August 2003)
Louisa and Maya were adopted last night by a nice couple. This really does prove that there is a home for every animal.
These girls are so shy that I had to fish Louisa out from under the bed and Maya stuck to the floor like a piece of paper when the couple first arrived. They wanted quiet kitties that already loved each other and didn't mind at all that there would be a long settling in period. They liked their quirks! Anyway, I can't believe it! It's a perfect home for them. I hope they behave! Their vet said he would adopt his cats to them - good enough for me. So, send them to the gallery.
They saw them on the website and had only great things to say about the site and the interactions they had with many of our foster homes. They said we were friendly and willing to go the extra mile to meet them. They could tell we cared for our animals very well. Good experience for all.
Karen |
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Miss Boots Was Made For Walking (August 2003)
I just have to share how ecstatic I am that Miss Boots got adopted today by the nicest couple from Sanford.
I thought I might have her for the rest of her life because she wouldn't come down from up high on my cabinet. Plus trying to pick her up is endangering your life--she will scratch your arms to shreds.
They had recently lost a cat to cancer that looks like Miss Boots. That cat was a traumatized stray when they found him and turned into a beloved housecat. Miss Boots took to Cathy like a fish to water, letting Cathy pick her up and carry her around like they were long lost friends. WOW!!
They knew all about her being traumatized and said they preferred a traumatized kitty because they wanted to help one that would be hard to place, plus they would help by spoiling her and helping her get over her sadness at losing her family. There are some truly good people out there!I have to revise my opinion of the human race after this ;)
Thanks to CARE, this poor cat has a BETTER home than she ever had! YAY CARE!!
-Audie |
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From Homeless to Business Partner (August 2003)
Dear Chatham Animal Rescue:
I adopted a very sick kitten from the rescue last year who had herpes in her eyes and had other serious problems. Initially I was skeptical about her only because I did not want her to get my other cats sick. I am happy to report that after a year with me she is much better and the absolute love of my life. If I could order up another 5 just like her that would be great. She is my constant companion and a real love - she sits on my lap all day while I work at home. I am a jewelry designer and she likes to help with the beads and such. I would love to adopt another but because of recent financial problems it has been difficult to consider. I would really consider another adoption as soon as my situation becomes stabilized.
Anyway thought you might enjoy this picture of my Panda hanging out with me. Thanks again for my baby.
Linnea |
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Sofie Fits Right In (August 2003)
Oh, I love these, only gone 16 hours and the dog fits in already!!!
Pam
Good Morning,
I just wanted to let you know how wonderfully Sofie is doing with us. She seems to fit right in. She is eating well already and enjoys all the love and play time she is getting. She must have been crate trained already. When it was time for bed last night I put the crate in Carrie's room and opened the door. Sofie went right into the crate and lied down for bed. She slept all night and at 7 this morning started whimpering to get out. She is a joy to have. Thank you for the care you gave her and bringing her to us.
Yvonne |
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Hazel: Good Life = Sleep Late, Chase Squirrels and Frogs (August 2003)
Pam
You would not believe how well Hazel has adjusted the past few days, she did really well on the ride home, we started out walking just a short distance and now we are making the loop of the neighborhood, she let me put the retractable leash on her collar and has done so well, she is now taking me for walks. The first night we stayed up late watching the race (until midnight), when we went to bed Hazel cried for just a few minutes and went to sleep, she is a lazy bones and likes to sleep in late, but we went to see Grandma and Grandpa on Sunday and they loved her. Today was the true test when we had to go back to work, we left at 7:00 and I came home at 11:00 and we went outside, then Cathy got home at 3:00 and she was such a good girl, and no 'accidents'. Cathy played with her until I got home 'just to get her warmed up', then we walked for a mile or so, (it takes awhile though because we have to stop and sniff everything), Hazel has had the chance to meet lots of new people and they all love her (who couldn't?). We have a doctors appointment for Sept 11th, her tummy is healing just fine where she had the operation. I am hoping if it is warm Saturday to see how she responds to the doggie pool. We took pictures Sunday and will send some soon, hope all the other puppies are doing well and we will keep you updated.
Jerry and Cathy
P.S. Hazel likes Squirrels and Frogs. |
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Scotty: What a Sight! (August 2003)
Scotty the blind dog is going into the Havanese rescue program. He has a syndrome that they want to breed out of the American bloodlines. They will take blood samples to figure out what causes this syndrome, and then will try to breed out these genes. They think he never had testicles, an indicator of severe affliction by this syndrome. Blindness may be a closely-linked gene trait. I guess I was the foster for a dog who represents the worst traits of the breed. Maybe he can help improve the breed. Since the gene pool is small for this breed, so much inbreeding has caused soft bones, blindness, etc. They will get his vision corrected if possible before finding a permanent home for him. He leaves for New Mexico by car Monday, then on to Phoenix to a specialist with blind dogs. There's hope for everybody if this dog gets a home!
Nadean
Update October 2003
I'm forwarding this update about the little white blind dog Scotty that I fostered April-September until Havanese Rescue decided he was a Havanese with a genetic disorder. He now can see thanks to expensive surgery CARE could not have afforded for him. Now he can be housetrained and go on to a happy forever home. I had to share my good news!
- Nadean
Scotty can see! THIS is totally awesome, a miracle, amazing, there's just not enough words to describe how kool it is for Scotty to be able to see again. He's like a kid in a candy store, walking around looking at everything and not bumping into it. Wish you could all be here to share in this wonderful experience. We took a few pictures of him for you to enjoy. Just look at that face!
Scotty came through the cataract surgery just fine today. He is a little tired and groggy tonight from the anaesthesia, but is great otherwise. He has vision in both eyes now. Dr English said it would be hazy/blurred for a couple of days and should be completely clear within a week or so. He is going to make someone a delightful companion. We see more playfulness coming out already. He is holding his head high and walking around with a lot more confidence. Dr E estimated him to be about 2-2 1/2 years old and said the cataracts were about 18 months mature. So this little guy has been blind most of his life. Can you imagine being able to see again after being in the dark for so long? WOW!
Scotty sends lots of Hav kisses to all the Rescue volunteers who helped save his life.
Karon & Karen and Lucky & Lacey and Scotty whose 'Hav-A-Wish' has come true...Now all he needs is a forever family to adopt him.
Update December 2003
I just have to share these great pictures and update on Scotty, the pitiful blind dog we found last May. His personality has blossomed since he regained his vision after surgery. This dog went from an unidentifiable matted mop who staggered when he walked and was withdrawn to a bouncy, adorable fluffball with a family who loves him. Thanks go to Havanese rescue for taking him and covering his medical expenses. I hope his pictures make your day.
Nadean
Hi Nadean -- Just thought we would take a minute to give you a Scotty update. His eyes are doing great and his vision is about 90-95% per Dr English. How kool is that? You would not believe the difference in him. I really wish you could see him again.
However, Scotty does have some heart problems we are working on now. His blood pressure was really high (260) back in Nov at one of Dr E's check-up appt's. He recommended him to the NCSU vet school for a cardio workup. Scotty has gone in for a couple of appt's now and is on a high blood pressure med along with a med for valve disease. He has some thickening around both valves which is causing some blood regurgitation. Combine that with the murmur and high blood pressure and we have a situation to deal with. He is responding well to the meds so far and we think he will be able to live a good quality life for a long time (just not as long as normal maybe).
Karen and I are considering adopting Scotty ourselves due to his ongoing medical problems. He is doing really great here and is just adorable. He is still pretty laid back and is very lovable. He likes to give kisses and snuggles. He has the run of the house with our other 2 Havs and absolutely loves to go for walks and/or rides. We love him dearly and after caring for him for so long now, it will be almost impossible to let him go. One of these days you are going to have to give us a lesson on how to foster without getting too attached. LOL.
Please let your friends at CARE know how great Scotty is doing. Thanks again to you and CARE for keeping Scotty safe for so long. You guys are GREAT! We attached his Christmas picture for you to share with everyone. He looks really good. Feel free to post it on your website. Also included one taken a couple of weeks ago of him sleeping in his bed so you could see how the salvia stains around his hot spot have almost faded out. He is going to be cream colored all over once they are gone.
Happy Holidays,
Karon & Karen
PS. Scotty sends lots of kisses and holiday best wishes to ya'll.
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Sadie: Backwoods Dog Movin' On Up (August 2003)
Hi all... Sadie has been adopted via the website and is in her wonderful new home. Her new dad called today to say that she is doing beautifully, and behaves as tho she's been there all her life. She has a cute little Australian Terrier brother that she plays wonderfully with, and when they got ready for bed last night, Sadie curled up on the doggie bed next to her Dad's side of the bed. They are amazed at what a wonderful girl she is and how perfectly she fits in with their family.
Ski and I took both Daisy Mae and Sadie to meet them yesterday afternoon, and I was so proud of those girls! They were so nice, and behaved as though they had been through obedience classes... Not at all like they were just plucked from a backwoods Chatham Co. highway, tick-ridden and in a state of starvation just 3 weeks ago. It was obvious when we took them in the house that Sadie had found her home. She investigated the house, snuggled the man, had a drink of water, and then curled up on the sofa to play with a toy. I was totally amazed!
Now, to find a great home for her sister!
Katie |
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Nero: Fit and Happy as a Fiddle (August 2003)
Nero was adopted by a great family yesterday. They were sooo excited, and I was too...that he was going to a home where they really wanted an energetic smart dog to walk and train and love. I wanted to go home with these people!!
Yet another miracle in my mind... this poor dog found with a broken leg who wouldn't walk or eat. Now a precious member of a loving family. Yay!!
Carrie |
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Max-imum Love (July 2003)
From Terrie, the foster:
This little guy, Max, was rescued by Katie from the shelter one Saturday. Actually the people never made it officially into the shelter with him. Katie saw max when they brought him in, his family was moving to New York and could not take him. Their young son, maybe 9 years old, was crying buckets of tears at having to give Max up. Katie brought him directly to the CARE Woof-a-Palooza from the shelter and we took him to foster. He was an absolute joy, funny as can be. We had lots of applications on him when his picture hit the website. The family that caught our fancy is from Delaware and had other daschunds. One had passed away and they wanted a companion for themselves and their remaining dog. They sounded like a great family, they drove all the way from Delaware to get him. The rest of the story is below. It is a heartbreaker but also a happy ending.
Terrie,
It's funny that you should email me now....I have been thinking of your role in bringing Max to us...and just started to email you when I received you email!
I just wanted to take the time to truly thank you for your role in bringing Max into our lives. So, from everyone in our family - 'Thank you!'
Max is an angel and a devil all wrapped into one beautiful little boy. He has brought an enormous amount of joy into our lives and that of his new little sister. After we brought Max home, Tiffany (our mini) began to show an obvious decline in health. She was diagnosed with Cushing's Disease a few months ago and treatment was not helping her. Max fell in love with her. He followed her around, enticed her to play, laid quietly next to her when she was too exhausted to move, kissed and nuzzled her as she slept, and never left her side. He shared his treats and bones with her and even made room for her in his crate. By the way, she had never of her own will set foot in a crate or cage. Attached is a picture of this amazing happening. Tiffany had a broken heart from the loss of her lifelong companion, our little boy mini Fivel. Max helped ease her pain and brought her the warmest and most loving companionship. Max began to sleep next to her in my daughter's bed. Tiffany grew to have problems breathing at night and periods of hyperventilating. Max never left her side. He would even alert my daughter of Tiffany's distress. Tiffany never went outside...we paper trained her because she hated being outside. With Max here, she began to beg to go out with him. She never ventured too far into the grass, but waited patiently on the patio for him to come back. Two weeks ago, we lost our beautiful baby girl and Max lost his new sister. Max knew what was happening and when we returned from the Vet, he howled and cried for about an hour or so....then he laid quietly with my daughter and comforted her and kissed away her tears.
Max has grown very quickly in our hearts and nothing could ever come between us. We wholly and completely love Max. He has truly grown into his personality. We have discovered that Max loves to watch Animal Planet! He watches the television and gets very excited when he sees dogs or cats. He has also learned to recognize the horses grazing across the street...when he sees horses on television he gets very excited and yippy.
He is such a beautiful soul. Unfortunately, he is also very lonely and needs a companion. My daughter and I have begun looking for a new brother or sister for Max. Just last night we saw an adorable little baby on Petfinder.com. Suprisingly, he is in Greensboro, NC! He actually looks like Max...and is almost the same age. We are going to fill out an application today. His name is Charlie and he is at Forever Friends Adoptions. They say he is a Manchester Terrier/Dachshund mix. I think they could be long lost brothers! Well, maybe new brothers. Anyway, Max is blossoming wonderfully. I have included some pictures of him. He is definitely growing...he's about 20 pounds now....and still growing ;o) Thank you again for everything and I will continue to keep you updated on Max! Have a great day!
Sharyn |
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Minnie Goes to the Beach (July 2003)
From Katie, the foster:
Here's the note from Minnie's new mom... Looks like it's a done deal. Kathe and her son Walter drove here from Pine Knoll Shores near Emerald Isle on Saturday, and picked Minnie up from Phydeaux. They live one street back from the shore, so Minnie gets to go for walks on the beach every day. I knew if I held out long enough, I'd find the perfect home for her.....
Katie
All three of us have fallen in love with Minnie. She was excellent on the car ride home. She enjoys sleeping under her own blanket with Walter. She is soooo sweet. We are totally enjoying her. Please feel free to stop by and see her in October when you visit the island.
You may most certainly turn in our contract. Minnie is in her forever home.
Thank you so much.
Kathe, Jim & Walter |
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Our Bud Billy (July 2003)
Hey there!
I thought you might like an update on our bud Billy.
You were right, he is so sweet and so lovey...just a total sweetie. And yes, you were also right about the chewing. I have spent the past day or two 'puppy proofing' the house and he still manages to find something (anything except his toys) to chew past recognition. I guess he thought it was time for us to get a new vacuum cleaner since he chewed through the cord while I was in the shower. I never really liked that vaccuum anyway. He also must have had some problems with the records and info file you left with me, he took it off the night stand while I was asleep and had his way with it. Luckily he must have gotten tired of it before any real damage was done.
He is really starting to feel at home in the backyard. He loves to run circles around Madison while she just looks at him like he's crazy. I'm trying to teach him to fetch...so far he will chase the ball, mess with it for a few, and then come running back to me only without the ball. We'll get it figured out soon.
His eye seems to be doing fine. I have been staying on top of his medicine and it doesn't seem to be bothering him.
Well, more later! We will check in again soon.
Billy and Cathie |
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From the Country to the 3rd Floor (July 2003)
The country dog finds a forever home in a 3rd floor apartment!
Lily wandered around in the country until she lucked out and found a C.A.R.E. volunteer's yard during one of the coldest days in January. Her beautiful face on the website made Sarah decide it was Lily or no one! After all, Tim had his pet cat, Ozzie, so why not find a great dog to go jogging with?
The initial visit to the apartment was a bit scary, climbing all those stairs. But living on the 3rd floor didn't keep Lily from fitting into her forever family beautifully. She goes walking by lakes, runs free in the next door outdoor track and feels right at home as an apartment dog. It'll be great when her humans finally buy a house with a fenced in yard, but learning to walk on a leash sure has benefits. Definitely, a happy ending. |
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We, and our Shadow... (July 2003)
Good morning Pam,
Thought I would give you an update on 'Jazzie', now known as Shadow in our home. He really is wonderful and brings many happy moments to us. Come to think of it, they are not moments, but instead they are days. He is beginning to feel more secure all the time. We renamed him Shadow because he follows me everywhere I go and when unable to do that he will find Floyd and follow him. He will still not walk in front or to the side of us at any time, which leads us to believe he has been kicked many times and does not trust anyone's foot. There have been other signs of abuse but he is really making headway with his trust of us. He thinks that his rightful place is on my lap at all times and the floor only be used as a means to get from one place to another. His supply of kisses is never ending!!
So far we have only left him alone for about an hour and he has not been a problem with that. In time we will lengthen it , but not until we are sure that he trusts us to come back to him. Each time we have returned he has covered us with his kisses and been beside himself with pleasure.
We took him to our vet for the last shot and so that our vet is familiar with him and has all the current medical records. Our vet remembers how much we loved our dog 'Max' and was pleased we had finally found another pet. We were also able to have our former groomer, even though she has retired, come to the house and give Shadow a very nice haircut. He looks like a beautiful puppy now and when the hair grows out it will all be the same length. I will send you a picture soon.
Pam, we thank you, your husband, Peg and Derryl, and all the special people like you who care about these wonderful animals enough to insure a safe and loving life for them. All the work that you do results in so very much pleasure for so many of us and we will forever be in your debt. Shadow will, for the rest of his life, have the best home and love that any pet can possibly have--I promise.
And yes, you can cash the check. It's the best money we have spent in a very long time.
Our best to you, Barbara and Floyd |
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New Year's Pup Gets Agile (June 2003)
Dear CARE,
We adopted 1 of Sydney's puppies that was born on New Year's day. We love him sooo much - he is a great companion for everyone in the family!!! He gets along great with other animals, and behaves very well. We named him Arlo and we are very glad that we could give him a loving home!!! He enjoys swimming and doing agility. If you know of somwhere where we can do agility with him at a real course we would really appreciate it.
Hannah (age 13) |
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Socrates: 'Not life, but good life, is to be chiefly valued' (June 2003)
We adopted Socrates (now Socrates Henry McGinley) on April 4th. Henry is a wonderful puppy and has fit right into our household. We really appreciate the time and effort that CARE volunteers spent to ensure that he was the right dog for us and that we were the right family for him. Our visits out to the Janssens' farm (where Henry was fostered) helped us get a better sense of his personality. So by the time we decided to bring him home for a trial weekend, we were hooked!
Thank you so much for connecting us to our wonderful doggie. Henry is very happy with us and we feel so fortunate to have him as the newest member of our family! Even our cats are beginning to warm up to him :)
Sincerely,
Karen and Paul |
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Two Cats Are Always Better Than One (June 2003)
Prissy (formerly known as Twiggy) and Gracie (formerly known as Suzette) are doing great! At first Prissy seemed a little put out that we had brought home another 'baby' to take over her queen status. But, within a day or two, they were getting along just fine. They love to tussle and run through our house. Prissy began as the dominate female but occasionally Gracie will 'take charge' and whomp up on her. They wrestle and play together and we laugh until we cry!
Prissy and Gracie went to the vet last weekend. They were 3.75 and 3.25 pounds respectively and seem to be growing as we watch! Prissy played the 'sick kitten' for us after her shot. She played that 'I'm sore' thing to the hilt! Gracie took everything in stride.
When I come upstairs to get on the computer, they love to run up the stairs and fly into the computer room. They then proceed to jump up on my lap (of course, one at a time). Prissy usually sits on the left-hand side of the desk (or behind the monitor) and Gracie usually sits on my lap! Prissy just seems to look at her with the questioning look, 'Why are you sitting in my spot?' Sometimes Gracie will lie at the top of the keyboard! They are a comical pair.
We set up a 'play pen' area in the middle of the den for them. They have one of the carrying crates near the pen, a scratching post, another toy that has a base and a fuzzy ball attached to it, along with several mini bean bag toys that they play around with. They especially enjoy the flexible rod with the feathers and bell on the end. Boy, they carry that thing around like a prize! And they also jump up in the air after it. We have laughed and laughed over Prissy. She likes to balance on top of the scratching post and 'leap' for the feathers. She is quite an acrobat!
All, in all, they are doing wonderful. Prissy loves on me at night and Gracie loves on my husband, Sawyer. In fact, Gracie sleeps on his pillow between his head and the headboard! What a sight!
They certainly have brought lots of joy into our household!
P.S. The vet told us that Prissy is part Maine Coon. That accounts for the little hairy 'wings' behind her face, long hairs in the ears and long hair on the bottom of her feet! Mystery solved. We call her the 'little Maine Coon.'
And everyone who has seen Gracie says she is the most beautiful colored tabby they have ever seen. She does have a silvery look to her and we think her tummy looks like a tortoise shell. Can't wait to see her as she matures.
Thanks again for letting us adopt Prissy and Gracie! |
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Gremlin Proves Cats Have at Least Two Lives (June 2003)
Picture:animals4/happy_gremlin.jpgGremlin, a beautiful, brown mackerel tabby, was trapped, for reasons still unknown, and taken to the animal shelter. Just before his time was up at the shelter, a CARE foster home took him in. He spent the first three weeks under the bed, wanting to play, but too afraid (or ornery) to do so. Then along came some wonderful folks who saw the beauty and charm Gremlin tried so hard to hide. The rest is history:
Jenna and Ken Welcome New Kitten into their Swingin' Raleigh Pad!
Gremlin Glimmerglass!
Gremlin comes from the same Chatham Animal Rescue organization that also gave us Harry (a twenty pound grey tabby with white). While Harry was born into a CARE home, Gremlin was captured in the wild and rescued from an animal shelter. He obviously earned the name Gremlin because of his growly little voice and feisty demeanor.
Harry has seen the attention Gremlin gets with his vociferous grewling and has made his musical voice a little more Satchmo consequently. Harry and Gremlin are still coming to terms with their Odd Couple relationship. While Harry is finicky, but fat, Gremlin is fur and bones and will eat anything, even really chewy pasta. |
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Cameron's First Birthday Party (June 2003)
Hi Nadean!
We just wanted to send you some updated pictures of Cameron. Today was his first birthday (at least we guesstimated it to be today!) and he had a nice little party with his brother and sister and his aunt and uncle. Of course he also received lots of presents and love from everyone on his big first birthday. We even took him to the Raleigh dog park this morning as his birthday surprise! He did fantastic and had a great time!!
He's been such a joy these past few months. We are just so happy that we had the opportunity to bring him home. We couldn't have asked for a better dog. He has been wonderful to us, our friends when they come over, and most importantly, his brother and sister. Cameron and Dennis play ALL the time! It's really great.:)
Well, I hope that you get a kick out of the pictures! Thanks so much again for everything!
Sincerely,
Courtnay and Andy Borleske along with Cameron, Dennis, and Capri |
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Sasha's Journey to a Forever Home (June 2003)
It is with very mixed emotions that I report that our dear Sasha has been adopted, after 1 year and 3 months of living with us at Hill Creek. Those of you who know him understand that Sasha is one special boy, and was also a little tricky in the adoption department. Last Wednesday Brad, a Domestic Violence Investigator for Chatham Co., came to Hill Creek to inquire whether we could foster a parrot and two parakeets for a victim who was at the shelter. He met Sasha and was immediately taken with him. The feeling seemed mutual, as our boy let Brad cradle him for quite a while. Dr. Bonnie blabbed that Sasha was still up for adoption, at which I must confess that I almost grabbed my Pumpkin love from Brad! But I gave the matter little thought, until I came to work Friday to discover an application for Sasha! Brad hadcome in Thursday (my day off) and filled out an app, and worse, took a picture of our treasure to show his family! He was hoping to take Sasha home for a trial run over the weekend. It was with a very heavy heart that I called him to tell him that would be fine. Although I was in tears several times during the day at the thought of Sasha leaving, I managed to pull myself together when Brad and his very nice family arrived to take him. I went over some of his peculiarities, and gave them his special bed and food. I took him back to get a Rabies booster, which is when Elke realized he was actually going. She picked him up and started to cry, at which point my composure crumbled. I was literally sobbing as I brought Sasha back up front and put him in his carrier. I know that Brad and his wife felt bad, they had tears in their eyes. But I was thinking of what Sasha stood to gain, so I handed him over. (I must say here that Dr. Bonnie had conveniently retired to her office...Tammy very stoically held her gaze elsewhere and waited until they had gone to leave the clinic and burst into tears.)
The selfish part of my heart was hoping that he would bite everyone in the family and so be returned to the only home he has ever known. Sasha has been happy with us, particularly in the last couple of months since he was given total freedom in the front of the clinic. His cage had been removed, and he wasn't even put in the office overnight. He repaid our trust in him by being a model clinic cat, sweet and mellow, pretty much ignoring the lowly dogs that came in. I think his recent happiness is what made this so difficult for me. Still, Sasha deserves a real home of his own, with someone to love and share the bed with him. I knew that if he could make itanywhere it would be with Brad and his family.
Today Brad came by to tell us that Sasha is doing great. He was a little upset the first night, but had already decided that Brad was his person. He will let the other family members pet him, but will then go sit with Brad. He gave me a wonderful visual...Sasha likes to climb on the back of his recliner and lay his head on Brad's shoulder! And this very sweet man just wanted to make sure that I was OK, and that I really wanted to give up Sasha. He said that he had seen women cry less than I did when he took their children from them! I told him that Sasha was a very special cat and that I just wanted the very best for him. It seems that this was just meant to be.
Kim - a very special thank you for bringing this wonderful creature into my life. I know that you will understand both my sorrow and joy that he has found his forever home.
Deborah
Update
I am pleased to report that my boy came for a visit today, and seems very happy! Brad dropped him off in the morning to get his distemper booster, and he stayed with us most of the day, hanging out in all his usual spots. It was great to see him! Tammy and I have suggested that Brad bring him by for 'day care' on a regular basis, and of course have told him we will happily 'board' Sasha if they ever go out of town. It would be nice to maintain regular contact, as he has been a big part of our lives.
Many people have many times asked me why I didn't take Sasha home myself, given that I love him so dearly. I may have hemmed and hawed about not needing a fifth cat (ha ha now I have seven) and that my husband would leave me, but the real reason is that I knew my house would not be a happy place for Sasha. I was really looking for a home with no other cats, or maybe a young female, and no indoor dogs. If no such home presented itself, then I felt that Sasha would be happiest at Hill Creek. Successful fostering depends on one's keeping the best interest of the animal in focus, even if that is in conflict with one's personal wishes. That is also the reason why I am keeping Hansel & Gretel, and Mowgli - there is no doubt that the best home for them is the one they currently have.
Take care, Deborah |
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Rescued Dogs Reunion (June 2003)
Hi all.
Beate hosted a reunion at her house today for my Sam and his siblings, Casey, Nessie and Cooper. Helen was there as she fostered Sam and Cooper before I got them. Beate fostered Nessie (formerly Nikki) and Casey. Casey, Nessie, and Cooper were there with their families.. What a great reunion. There wasn't one growl all day, and they had the best time playing and eating treats... It's amazing how much they all look alike! Sam is the biggest at 110#, with Cooper close behind. The girls are somewhat smaller... all are beautiful and doing great. Attached is a picture of Sam (on the left) and Cooper waiting patiently for a treat.
I think a CARE alumni reunion would be a great event. These kids really had fun.
Katie |
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Rambogie Rap (June 2003)
Rambogie Rap
I'm a cattle dog pup, oh can't you see?
With a little bit of Boxer and Chow in me.
I'm ruff
I'm tuff
I'm a big cream puff.
When your friends come to visit, they say 'oh my!'
Is it safe to be standing so close to that guy?
I stare
I glare
Throw my paws in the air.
When I'm at home I'm the boss of the pack.
Just do as I say or I'll jump on your back.
I'm the boss
I'm the Boss!
Don't make me cross.
But when Frances' doggies come out to play
They jump on my tail and I run away.
I'm a wimp
I'm a simp
I'm a tiny little shrimp.
When Mom says namaste I come to her and bow
I musta been a monk before I was a Chow.
I'm so fine
I'm divine
Was a heck of a find.
(If you want a swoochie pooch as special as me
You'll have to see Folks at the C.A.R.E. Facility.
They're dolls
That's all
Just give them a call.)
For Bogie, a cattle dog mix adopted from CARE. |
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A Peachy Adoption (June 2003)
Dear CARE,
We just wanted to thank you for taking such good care of Addie ('Peaches') while she was in your care. Addie is now completely adjusted to her new home. She is excelling in her Puppy Head Start class and loving being socialized. She is doing great on her house training and only has accidents when we are not paying attention to her 'signs.' She has made friends with lots of the other neighborhood dogs, but really loves to be inside, taking naps on the couch with her butterfly and her mom and daddy. Thanks so much for a wonderful addition to our family!
Lori and Joe |
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Cooper and Abbie: Unwanted to Priceless (May 2003)
These are the CARE puppies formerly known as Coop and Patty. It never ceases to amaze me how unwanted animals can so quickly turn into the light of someone's life. In their case, it was less than 2 weeks! -Carrie
Things are great with Cooper and Abbie, gosh I love them so much! They have adjusted really well, and the cat is even getting a little used to them. My vet said they look great and they will be getting their rabies shot the first of May (she wanted to wait until they were 4 mos. old). We started our Heartguard so I'm happy about that too.
I bought way too many toys and collars and chews, etc. etc.! LOL Oh well, I have backups. The potty training is going pretty good, they don't poop in the house anymore so now we're working on the peepee thing. I go home everyday at lunch to let them out and play with them a little.
They are adorable, and Cooper is gaining weight and growing like crazy, Abbie has gained weight too and she's gotten so much better about being petted and held. They even had their first bath, which went surprisingly well!
Oh, by the way, and I don't know if she's right...but my vet said she thought they were wire-hair terrier and beagle mix. And the more I looked at them, I think she's right about the beagle thing, Abbie has that beagle look and they both have beagle ears.
Melissa |
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Vander: A Great Family Investment (April 2003)
Vander's update: I just wanted to thank you all for the best kitty we have ever had. Vander follows my son (who is one & a half) everywhere he goes. They are the best of pals. Whenever my son leaves the house, he kisses Vander. Whenever he comes home, he kisses Vander. Whenever he goes to bed, you guessed it, he kisses Vander. Vander is so patient and loving with all of us. He has brought us so much joy. Thank you for rescuing him from the shelter, for your adoptive fairs, and foster families. He is a great family investment.
- Susan |
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Tyler and Ben (April 2003)
Tyler is doing great! We LOVE him!! He is the sweetest thing! I got him the interceptor and front line, and gave him the interceptor yesterday (4/1) so he is on schedule with that. Tyler really loves our son, Ben. After Ben goes to bed at night we shut his door and Tyler lays on the floor outside his room crying for him. He loves it when they get home from school, because Ben will run with him in the yard and really play with him. I give him attention during the day, but I just don't play the way kids do. Ben cannot wait for the weekend so he can play with him all day.
I will mail back your collar soon; it might take me a few days to get to the post office because this is a very busy week. I will email when I've put it in the mail. You can go ahead and put the check in the bank. Thank you so much for everything!! |
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Pepper Spices Up Family (April 2003)
Thought everyone could use a 'happy ending' story. Attached are pictures of our handsome Pepper. Pepper was supposed to be foster dog, but was somewhat aggressive when he came from the shelter, so I decided to keep him. As it turns out, he has become a wonderful dog! He absolutely loves my daughter and would protect her to the end of the earth, he stays right on our property with no trouble, he LOVES to ride and is a great rider, and gets along great with my other dogs. He is quite a handsome prince, who is extremely gentle, in spite of his size! Pepper has added so much to our family, we're very lucky to have him! Sometimes, endings truly are happy!
Regards,
Stephanie |
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Angel Answers Their Prayers (April 2003)
Dear Karen,
Happy Easter! And a very special Easter it is! Thank you for your sacrifices. I am sure it was difficult to let go of such a special, loving kitty. She is wonderful! What a purr-box! We are enjoying her immensely and she is sweetly filling the void left by Sugar's passing.
We do have a couple questions. What food did she eat while with you? She has nibbled at the Purina One we have and turned her nose up at the wet Alpo sliced chicken with gravy. That is what we have fed all our cats for 4 years! Did she sleep with you at night? We would love her to, but last night she lay with us for a while at the foot and then went and found a spot in our closet. She may just be adjusting to her new home.
Thank you again for all you have done for homeless animals! You are a special person with a special gift and full of love! God will surely bless you!
Sincerely, Carme
P.S. We have renamed her Angel, since she was an answer to prayer! I've always known there were angels among us like Alabama's song says! They come in all forms! |
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Nicole - Good Things Come to Those Who Wait? (March 2003)
'Good things come to those who wait': I have never believed in this old adage. In my experience, good things come to people who work their rears off, and then only if you're lucky.
Here's the story. A week ago Saturday a couple came into the shelter crying. They had to return a dog they had adopted the day before because she tried to kill their 2 cats. They were reluctant to try out another shelter dog because they couldn't bear the heartbreak of possibly having to return another. All the volunteers thought they were great people.
I called the shelter Monday morning, and the director had been very impressed with them. She gave me their name and number. After a busy week, I called them Friday night. I chatted with Michael for over 30 minutes and told him everything I know about CARE and our animals (the Readers Digest version). He was oh so grateful that we existed. He wasn't aware there were such groups that already knew the animals' temperaments.
When I hung up, I knew that any CARE foster would be thrilled to have this guy apply for their dog. He was 1 in a million. I logged on email Sat morning and was pleased to see that he had already filled out an application. I opened it, and almost fell off my chair. It was for my foster dog Nicole! I knew there must be some mistake!
I swear, honest to turkey, I never mentioned her name, or any other dog's name, in our conversation. I wasn't trying to market a dog, just help this guy out.
He and his woman came to Petsmart yesterday to meet Nicole. It was love at first sight. He was even more wonderful in person than on the phone. He lay down on the floor and scratched Nicole's belly, she gave him big facekisses. His live in was equally as terrific. Another dog walked up and licked her face. She kissed the dog on the nose. At 4:30, Michael proudly walked out of Petsmart with Nicole.
I spent 20 minutes telling him that Nicole might be quite shy for several days. I spoke to him last night. After about 10 minutes of adjustment, she was introduced to their 7 month Golden Retriever mix, Charlie. They tore through the back yard for over an hour. Nicole then came in, gave Michael a full face bath, and fell asleep. When he fed the dogs, they ate out of the same bowl. When we chatted the dogs were playing in the house.
This same Nicole was still nervous after spending 2 weeks with a different family. This time, she found her people.
As strange as it is, for the first time in 8 months, Nicole was the belle of the ball at Petsmart. EVERYONE was interested in her. It's some weird pnenomenom I've seen before. Dog has no interest for several months, and then you need to clone her to make people happy!
Pam |
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Buddy Sawyer: Big, Goofy, Expensive...and Happy (March 2003)
To all,
I am notifying you to let you know that I have adopted out a dog. Most of you probably wonder why the heck I think you would care. Read on.
Buddy Sawyer is kind of a special dude. When he came to us, he was diagnosed with Addison's disease. This disease is rare in dogs, and even more rare in male dogs. I assure you he is a male, no female could be that klutzy.
Buddy can live a normal life and lifespan if he stays on medication. Problem is, it's not so cheap. His monthly medical bills are in excess of $100 a month, and that's just for the disease. So his adoption is a minor miracle, and a big relief on the CARE funds.
Buddy was 55 pounds when he came to us, looked like a purebred Golden Retriever. Then his head started to grow, along with everthing else. He is a GR/Great Pyrenees mix, 85 pounds now and still growing. Every pound he gains increases the cost of his medication, but he's not overweight.
Buddy is about a year old with the mental maturity of a 4 month old puppy. His 'hobbies' include counter surfing, a counter in Buddy terminology is any surface less than eight feet all (e.g. bedroom dressers, dining room table, bathroom vanity, top of dog crate, top of tv), jumping full force into your pelvis, stomach, or on shoulders, 'power' walking (dragging human to pavement), and eating 'different' things (e.g. sneakers, king size pillows, eyeglasses, eyeglass cases, leather purses, etc.).
Good news is the Budster doesn't have a mean bone in his body, he's 100% love machine. That is not really a bonus at 6 am when he pounces on the king size bed (I know that bed is about to collapse). He loves dogs and cats, although the cats have a special swear word for him. (except Tigger, Tigger has him well trained).
Don't ever think you have a cat or a dog that someone won't love and want to adopt. If Buddy can find a home, all of our animals can!
I'll miss your kisses, Buddy, but not your other hobbies!
Pam |
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Indiana Jones - The Adventure Continues (March 2003)
Indy is definitely living up to our (and her foster mom's) expectations. We named her for Indiana Jones, never knowing that it would be such a great fit - she's energetic, adventurous, and so very playful! We have also been totally impressed with her brains - she picks up on things so quick. Indy is our 'high-achiever' puppy! We have her a bandana to wear too! She's trying desperately to make friends with her feline brothers - and they are starting to accept her as one of their one because she is just too playful! We love her and can definitely say this is a big happy ending for our family!
Thanks again! Jessie & Kip |
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Gabriel - Living Large (March 2003)
This pup's CARE name was Eric (I thought he'd max out at 50 pounds!), and his siblings were Freddy, Markie, Maxie, Talulah, and Ripley....They were the pups rescued near Jordan Lake. All found wonderful homes!
Here's the note from Eric's parents:
Katie,
I hope you remember us; we are the couple that adopted one of your fosters in August. I don't remember the name he had when he was with you, but he was one of the litter of 6 abandoned at Jordan Lake. He has two lighter patches behind his shoulder blades that you called wings, so we renamed him Gabriel. He is now a healthy 10 month old spoiled baby, and the older he gets the more like a Mastiff he looks. He is around 85 pounds now and is the most beautiful dog we have ever seen. We always get compliments on him when we are out on our walks. I wanted to send some of the newest pictures. They are not the greatest, but you can still see the wings. Thanks for taking such good care of him until we found our perfect puppy.
Michelle and Matt Miethe |
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Cameron Graduates (March 2003)
It's official...Cameron's a graduate!
Garner, NC PetSmart's Class of 2003 welcomes Cameron!!
He completed his puppy training class with flying colors. #1 in the class with the 'leave it' trick.
Yeah Cameron!:) |
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Sly and Tigger, the Kitty Formerly Known as Prince (March 2003)
Juliana, Sly and Tigger's new mom, writes:
I just wanted to give you an update on Sly and Tigger (the kitty formerly known as Prince... hee-hee... no pun intended). They are doing great! As I mentioned before, Sly is perfectly healthy. As far as Tigger, I changed his name because it just suited him... he's a little trouble maker, but he's still so cute!!! As with Sly, Tigger is just as healthy and extremely feisty. I've attached a couple of pictures of them to show how much they've grown... they're inseparable now! Sly is much calmer, but I'm attributing that to the age difference. As you can see from the pictures, Tigger loves the camera! Please let me know if there is anything I can do for your organization... I'd still like to get involved. |
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April (aka 'Sweety Puff') and Garbage Goose (March 2003)
Hello Georgan & Steve,
Hope you are doing well. April is doing great!! She is one this month so we thought we'd give you an update. She is 58 pounds and very fluffy. Her nickname is 'Sweety Puff'. She is meaty and much stronger than she used to be. She still has nearly a dozen doggie friends. We are taking care of Matt's sister's labs for a while. They stay in the basement and yard. April plays with them for hours everyday (they didn't know how to play when they got here) then she comes inside and sleeps on her very own couch (the two seater). She still spends a lot of time being filthy. You can tell she is wet in the pictures.But that is okay. You will also note the goose in the pictures, in the house. She ate too much heavy metal and had to go to the vet school for surgery last week. She is spending time inside recovering. And Matt is building another fence to restrict her.
Thank you,
Debbie and Matt |
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A Penny for Your Thoughts (March 2003)
Picture:animals1/happy_penelope.jpgPam,
Thank you for bringing Penny to our house on Sunday. We gave her a new name 'Hava' (have you seen Fiddler on the Roof? the youngest daughter he loved so much was Hava) and at the moment use both, I am sure adding to her confusion but she seems to be responding to her new name as well. She has done very well and we are all adjusting fine. She is remarkably calm and seems to have no neuroses at the moment. She is definitely a people person and whichever room I go to, she follows me and lies down there. I worked on the porch most of Monday and she stayed with me at all times. If I went to get a glass of water, she followed, waited for me and we went back.
The biggest joke in our house at the moment is that I got myself an energetic breed and instead a couch potato to keep Peter company arrived. She is very content to lie down next to him and go nowhere. She can't decide who is better - the woman with the treats or the guy who rubs her belly, so she just sees Peter in a distance and already positions herself on the floor, ready for a rub - and he never disappoints.
Right on Sunday we discovered that our house has too many stairs and she was terrified of them. Monday morning she woke up at six and I took her out right away, but it meant going down those stairs and it was just too scary... But we worked on it all day Monday and she now even challenges the stairs by herself, not with passion, cautiously but does it very well.
We tried the leash and she definitely did not like it one bit and made it very clear that this is not her idea of fun. I also think she may have been worried about going away from the house, plus it is a street with an occasional car, so it was a non-starter. Zoe was terribly disappointed as she was hoping that we would all walk with her to school for everyone to see the new puppy. We told her it would take time but she imagined a puppy that would be there for everyone to admire.
Penny/Hava lost two teeth yesterday, we put them in a little box and Zoe wondered if there was a dog fairy that was going to come. Zoe lost only one tooth and one is very wiggly, so I told her she had to catch up.
This morning she already had far more energy than yesterday and we ran around the yard together for a while. The neighbors' dog barked at her from behind the fence suddenly, she ran for dear life to the other side, then stopped and very bravely barked back. It was extremely funny. I tried to teach her to sit and it works 'so-so', at times she does it well, other times she lies down, watches me and has no intention to follow any instructions.
Please rest assured that we are taking care of her and will do our best to raise her as a happy dog with lots of things to do.
Best wishes,
Silvia |
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Ferby: From Shelter to Foster to the Lap of Luxury (February 2003)
Please move the dog Ferby to the adoption gallery. He found the perfect home after one day on the website. The adopter's profile is exactly what we hoped for Ferby. She is elderly, retired, has another chihuahua who was rescued from cold weather and has frostbite on her ears, and has cats. One cat recently died at age 26. He will eat filet mignon doggie food, sit in her lap all day watching tv and reading, and sleep in her bed wrapped up in a pink baby blanket. He had a huge smile on his face cuddled up in her arms on my couch. So did Brittany to see the perfect pair together. She even gave us an extra donation for his dental expenses. Brittany painted his toenails blue to remind him of his Chapel Hill foster home.
Another happy ending... Nadean |
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Sage - Home at Last (February 2003)
When we first left on the drive to NY, Sage had no idea what lay ahead of her. And once we arrived she was still pretty confused for the first couple of days. As the week went on she began to make herself at home, as if she had lived there all her life. She was so excited about all the attention she was getting. In little over a month, Sage has successfully become integrated into the family. She and the resident cat are the best of friends already. She brightens everyone's day with her sweet face and wagging tail. It's clear that Sage is home at last where she will be loved for the rest of her life. |
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Callie's First Christmas (February 2003)
Here's an email I received from the young lady who adopted Pauline, sister to Stacy and Nanette, three little bad looking puppies I got from CCAS last spring. I almost didn't let her adopt Pauline because Pauline was so shy, and Heather works 8-5. After turning her down, Heather called me begging, saying that she would do anything I said to be able to adopt her. I relented, and boy am I glad I did. She is now Callie, and appears very happy. I had no idea she'd grow up to be so beautiful!!!
Katie
Hi Katie,
Hope all is well! I wanted to share with you Callie's first Christmas. This might be my favorite picture of her yet. I remember that when I took it, she flashed me a big smile. Such a ham! Anyway, she is wearing the raincoat she received for Christmas...which has come in very handy with all of the cold/snowy weather we have had. isn't she beautiful? :-)
Heather |
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Letters from Thyme's New Home (February 2003)
Happy new year! Thyme is doing wonderful. she keeps me smiling all of the time. I love her more and more each day. She and I have been running quite a few times together and she loves it, although I've got to keep on working with her because she likes to cut in front of me and stop to sniff. I've almost fallen quite a few times. Oh well, that's my goofy girl. She's very funny. She loves to sleep in my dad's recliner and watch out the window. It was so funny the other day. Poor thing was sleeping very hard on the recliner with all 4 paws in the air and rolled over onto the floor. She looked up and me and started wagging her tail. I was worried but she was laughing. I've been trying to teach her how to sit. I'll pull out a treat, .put it behind my back, push on her back side to sit, and say 'sit' firmly. The first few times I think she thought she was in trouble because she started crying and ran away. I felt horrible. She and Seymour the min-pin love each other. When he comes over they play and play and then they sleep together for hours. It's very sweet. They have become inseperable. My dad loves her very much, too I'v caught him a few times petting and talking to her. It's funny to hear a 6 foot 300 lb body builder baby talk to a dog. Thyme and i love to cuddle and have bonded to be extremely close already. I just got my car back and a special seat belt for dogs and was gonna go play with the tennis ball at the park and walk some trails. She's asleep at my feet right now. So sweet. She says she loves and misses you. I hope everything is well there.
Love always, Jess and Thyme.
Hello, how are you?
Thyme and I have been having so much fun in the snow. She has taken to rolling in it until she gets soaking wet and I have to use the hair dryer to dry her. Goofball! We went to Petsmart together last week. Well,let me tell you it was funny. I was looking at pet beds and I had my back turned, when all of a sudden I feel a pull at the leash. I turned around and she was at the top of a step ladder, like the big ones that roll and are really tall. She just looked at me like 'look at me mom'. So funny! And whenever I go put my running shoes on, even if it's just to go to the mailbox, she gets so excited. I think that she really enjoys our jogs. We'll write back if you wish. I'm currentally waiting for the pictures of Thymes first week to be developed, but i promise I'll send them as soon as Iget a chance. Take care.
Jess |
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Gable and Abby (February 2003)
Hi Karen! We wanted to let you know that things with Gable are going really well. He and Abby get along famously, and manage to tire each other out every day. Abby has only been a little bit jeaous -- it's really been minimal. She shared her bed (blanket) with Gable from the first night. They've been out in the yard on nice days and rode around with Todd during a couple of days. Today they stayed home alone for the first time -- and there was no destructive behavior. So......we are really happy. Gable is totally sweet and I think he will help to calm Abby down a little bit. Thanks for taking care of him and helping us adopt him!
Laura and Todd |
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Gracie's (AKA Teensie) First Christmas (February 2003)
Joan and Rick,
It was great to hear from you. We apologise for not getting back to you sooner. The month of January flew by...... We had hoped to organise a get together long before now.
Gracie is doing GREAT! We had a wonderful first Christmas with her. We had our Christmas tree in the living room and since Gracie does not spend much time in that room, she really didn't bother with it. The packages under the tree intrigued her, but a sharp 'no' and she was on her way. She really made out on Christmas and got many new chew toys, a new collar and a new Lands End bed pillow. Rob questioned how many toys we bought for her, but she has not chewed any shoes, or for that matter anything that doesn't belong to her, so that speaks for itself.
We drove to Michigan on December 26 for a week. Gracie was a great traveller and perfect guest in the homes and hotels we stayed at. At Annette's parents house, there were 4 other dogs (Nanook, Aleeta, Kiera and Lucy---cousins we call them) and she got along with everyone! Annette's parents' 11 year old dog didn't find Gracie's desire to play amusing, but Gracie quickly learned to just lay next to him and rest...not play. The other 3 dogs are younger and they were happy, willing and delighted to play with Gracie! We were quite a sight walking all those dogs! At Rob's mom's house, Gracie met Gizmo, but he didn't want much to do with Gracie and she seemed to understand that. A few growls and she just decided, 'I guess he doesn't want to play'...and found a human to play with instead. We also visited friends for a few days, so Gracie met more dogs along the way there. In total, she had interraction with 9 dogs on that trip! She was so well behaved and we were very proud of her.
Gracie is still sleeping in her crate, but we feel she is nearly ready to try sleeping out of the crate. Gracie favorite place to sleep is on Kate's bed. There have been several times when we're looking for Gracie at night....and we find her asleep on Kate's bed. She sneaks in there after Kate has gone to sleep and snuggles up close. Very cute!
We hesitate to say she is completely house trained, but she is doing pretty good. She usually goes to the door to indicate that she needs to go out. Occassionally, she barks to go outside, but we're still working on that. She sits, shakes and lies down. Janet is trying to teach her to roll over, but has had little success. She gets plenty of exercise and is always ready to go for a walk.
She has grown considerably, but she remains very lean. She weighs about 32 pounds. She is getting some lighter hair....especially in her tail and across her shoulders. Her tail is very curly and curls around over her back. It keeps her busy....chasing it!
We'd love to arrange a get together. It would be fun to see Splash and Indy again. We would also be happy to include Ditto and his family, if you think they would be interested. Let us know.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Gracie, Kate, Janet, Matt, Annette and Rob |
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Rufus and Arlo and a Warm Sofa (February 2003)
Hello Katie-
We are well and we hope you are too.
We are celebrating our first birthday by doing our most favorite thing in the whole world... taking a nap on our warm sofa!
We wanted to thank you for the best birthday present ever... helping us find our very own home (have we mentioned we LOVE the SOFA?!!) and our very own family... with a dad, a mom, and even a little brother to play with us. They all love us very much and we love them too... we show them how much we love them by giving them lots of kisses and tailwags.
We are attaching our latest picture so you can see how big and healthy we have grown over this past year. We can hardly believe it's been a year already! ...Maybe it's true that time flies when you're having fun.
Love,
Rufus and Arlo |
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Athena: Buckwheat is 'O-Tay' (February 2003)
Hi Frances!
Thought I'd give you an update on our girl. She's coming along wonderfully. She no longer does the submissive wetting when it's just Pete and I, but still occasionally does when a stranger approaches her. Even this is getting better though. One of my cats had to go to the vet yesterday for his annual physical and vaccines, so Athena came along for the ride. She was actually very willing to walk right up to new people at the vet's office and let them pet and fuss over her, and she didn't dribble once! I was so proud!She's made quite a few trips to the barn at this point, too, and she enjoys herself out there. She's usually passed out from exhaustion by the time we get home. Incidentally, she's also passed out right now, on her bed right next to me. Being a puppy must be extremely taxing!
Puppy class is going great and it has really helped her come out of her shell. Next Monday is the last class. She is absolutely in love with Buckwheat, our Lab. He seems to be really happy to have another dog to play with, too. She's been great with the cats. She occasionally thinks it's a good idea to chase after my little Siamese, but she stops as soon as you tell her no.
I've attached 2 of the many, many pictures we've taken of her. She is going to be a camera hound, literally. She looks like she's posing in every one of them!
Best regards,
Jennifer |
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Kylie, Now Maple: A Real 'Sleeper' Adoption (January 2003)
Hey Karen
We have been having a great time with Maple. As promised here are a couple of pictures of Maple. It is hard to get a picture of her when she is not sleeping. She goes with me over to my friend Kim's and plays with her dog, Calla, and tolerates her roommate's husky puppy, Chopper. I think taking her with me to visit friends has done wonders for her confidence. Tonight I went to a friends house for dinner and there were about 15 people there. By the end of the night she was letting everyone have their turn giving her some attention. We will keep you posted on her progress and keep sending pictures.
-Effie |
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Corona: Training On Tap (January 2003)
Dear Beate,
I'm sorry we haven't been in touch, but getting back to school and work has been rather hectic. All the news is good, though. If Corona is half as happy with us as we are with her, she's doing great. We did decide to change her name; the beer associations were too troubling given some of Jennifer's struggles. So we're calling her Bella (from Bell in Beauty and the Beast, because she's a beautiful beast), to which she's already responding.
You were so so right about this match. Bella does know that Jennifer is her job. She follows her around the house, and greets her with special enthuasiasm when she returns. Bella particularly delights Jennifer by running to the window to say goodbye when her father picks her up in the morning to take her to school. Most importantly, Bella seems pretty oblivious to Jennifer's tantrums (which are never directed at Bella). Bella is also helping Jennifer get exercise. We go on a 45 minute to an hour walk every afternoon after school. And she is the easiest--that is best trained and responsive--dog I have ever had. She naps in my office all day untiil 2:30 when we go to pick up Jennifer from school. Bella has much enjoyed meeting the other dogs in the family, with whom she plays tag in the back yard until everybody's breathless. Jennifer's step sister Bliss brought her dog Sweet-tea for a double sleepover Saturday night. Bella was the most gracious host. Things are better with the cats; Bella and Anna get along fine; Pearl's still cranky but Bella's not as scared and even tries to get Pearl to play tag in the house. Some of their 'stuff' might well be playing at this point; I can't tell.
The girls start obedience class on Wednesday; or at least Jennifer does. Bella will start a week later. I promise to take my camera and will email some pictures. (I'm ashamed to say I haven't taken any yet!)
I want to thank you again for bringing Bella in to our lives. You did the hard part and you are obviously a great dog trainer.
Hope you and yours are well and enjoying a wonderful start of the new year.
Susan |
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Josh Takes Over (January 2003)
We are proud to announce a new addition to our home. His name is 'Josh' and he's a four month old English Pointer. We were lucky to find him through the Chatham County Animal Rescue Organization. He has already made himself at home and taken over our hearts.
Welcome Josh! |
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Alexus - The New Child (January 2003)
We have happily adopted Alexus on January 20th 2003. She has become a great addition to our family! She is an excellent puppy that loves to play and is incredible smart. She has become the child that we do not have and a wonderful friend to both of us. We are very lucky to have such a wonderful puppy! |
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Dahlia Finds the Right Home (January 2003)
Well, I just wanted to let you know that Miss Dahlia's progress is really rolling now. After I talked to you last night she came up to meand wanted her belly rubbed! She also spent the evening watching TV with Terri and I. She cryed when Terri left. She also went to the back of the yard for awhile and I couldn't see what she was doing, but she came RACING back like she felt relieved!
Then, this morning she went (I saw her this time), and also she let me put her little rope on in record time. I also shortened the rope again. She zoomed around like a little mad-dog this morning. She seemed so happy. She's also doing better going through doorways. She still won't go through without me coaching her, but her transition time is getting less and less.
Also, I must tell you, I've had a really hard time calling her Dolly. It just doesn't seem to fit her. So I've been calling her Daisy. I switch back and forth still, but she is responding to both now.
I'll keep you posted on her progress but it seems like were starting to get some momentum!
Karen |
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CoCo the Survivor (January 2003)
This is from Maureen, who adopted CoCo (aka Lucy), the dachshund mix momma that I fostered along with her litter of 3 brand new puppies, all of whom, one by one, died. Then, the day they took her home, CoCo ran into the woods and was lost for many awful hours. When I went to help look for her, I left my sweaty t-shirt there as 'bait' and it worked. They found her sleeping on it later that night. As you'll read, CoCo is living The Life.
Hi Holly,
I hope you had a great holiday. I thought I'd give you an update on CoCo. Her D. Mange cleared on its own. I wasn't about to let her go through another traumatic dip. Fortunately it resolved on its own. She had a wonderful Christmas with her own stocking and gifts under the tree. She is such a happy little dog and we all adore her. My family wanted to take her back to Florida. Her coat is a beautiful shimmery chocolate brown and her eyes just sparkle. She has been sleeping in our big bed for several months now and cuddles up to me. She sleeps in my lap every evening as we watch television and I love it. Binky and she get along just fine and they each have bones every day. CoCo has a sweater like Binky but she's not in to that just yet so we don't push. She's so funny and entertaining we can't imagine our family life without her. She doesn't mind the leash at all now and goes out with Binky about 4x daily to do their thing. The rest of the time they play, sleep in the sunny window and eat. Between my son my husband and myself she doesn't see the ground too often because she's being cuddled. Well I could go on and on but I think you get the picture. Thanks again for this wonderful little dog. If you're ever in this area you're welcome to come see her anytime.
Maureen |
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Spot-Angus: Fort Lauderdale and a Pool! (January 2003)
Here's another one to add to the statistics for adopted animals. Spot-Angus our foster dog dalmation/black lab that has been with us since July is heading for Fort Lauderdale, FL in two weeks! The couple adopting him heard about CARE from her sister who lives in Durham. She had met CARE volunteers at an adoptathon in Durham earlier in the year and she urged her sister and husband to visit the website. They did and were taken with 'our boy' Spot-Angus. They immediately put in an application and came to visit him while they were up for the holidays. They all fell in love with one another (and our other 'kids' were impressed with the couple as well- good thing) and hated to part (they couldn't take him that day due to an overpacked car). They have filled out the contract and sent in the adoption fee and will be back to get him in two weeks. They also sent in pictures of their house, their pool where he can swim in the backyard, the kitchen where he will stay in the day time, and the two cats they have (complete with Santa hats on). It was so nice I was thinking of convincing them to adopt me as well!! They have already gotten toys, bowls, a leash, scheduled their first vet visit the day after they get back to have him chipped, and would be going back to get a bed for him but they were pretty sure he would be sleeping in their bed with them! They'll be driving all the was up again just to pick him up.
Another happy ending. Now for the next one...
Peggy |
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Cattle Dog Now on the Right Trail (December 2002)
I am the foster mother of a cattle dog who was placed in his 'forever home' thanks to Petfinder.com. I am in NC and the people who adopted him drove all the way from Pennsylvania to pick him up. They used the Petfinder website to do a search and searched further and further from their location until they found the perfect dog for them - in Pittsboro, NC.
My foster went from a cage in a shelter where he was due for being put down, to a home on a farm in PA with folks who trail ride for a hobby and take him all over the NE trailriding.
Every so often they email me with up dates and today sent pictures of Sydney swimming and playing with friends he met on the latest trail ride.
Cindy |
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Rudy, the Social Animal (December 2002)
Good morning. Sorry we haven't gotten to you earlier. We just got back into town from MD. We all visited my parents for the holidays. Rudy is doing great. He and Riley have hit it off. I think our trip was a little tiring for the both of them. They had a Jack Russell/girl to contend with this week. Rudy, being the social boy that he is got to be good friends with her. Riley tried to keep to himself and Robin. But before we left, Riley and Rudy were starting to play alot. When we first brought Rudy home, he stayed under the bed and only came out when we got low to the ground. We finally got him to come down the stairs and he stayed there observing us for a while. Then he would come down but only stay under our coffee table. Eventually, we got him to come out and sit and lay under our feet at the couch. He was sleeping on a little blanket bed we made for him. However after our trip, we have spoiled him. He's now sleeping at the foot of our bed on top of it. After three days, Rudy started coming out of his shell and playing with Riley. Riley can be so ornary but he has his moments when he wants to play and when he wants to lay around.
Rudy really impressed all of my family. They all said he was so well mannered and only had a couple of accidents. I've gotten in the habit of giving him a treat while he's outside so he'll associate potty breaks and treats with the outside. He's been nothing but a joy to have around. He's getting tons of loving from us as well as Riley. We love having him around!!! We'll have to take some digital photos and send them to you! Take care and I'll keep you updated.
Andy |
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Little Joelle: Larger Than Life (November 2002)
Back in July, I took in 3 very small pups. Within 2 days, they got very ill, and 2 of the girls died. Standing alone was little Joelle, at 2.3 pounds, she had an uphill battle. After 2 weeks of twice daily vet visits, Joelle turned the corner, and became a healthy, spunky, beautiful puppy. She was adopted when she was about 3 months old. At 8 pounds, it was obvious to Dr. Bonnie and me that this was going to be a small dog. Joelle's mom was a Sheltie mix, but she looked more like a Chihuahua/Rat terrier with blue eyes. While we often hesitate to guarantee adult weights, both Bonnie and I were certain Joelle wouldn't go above 20 pounds, 25 the absolute max.
Joelle is now six months old, and her mom and dad sent me pictures. They love her to death. But, uh, the little chihuahua is now 30 pounds and it turns out she's a 'little' German Shepherd!!! Oh, well, can't win em all!
pam |
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Zeke Flies to New Hampshire (November 2002)
Here's the latest on Zeke (my little Aussie mix with one blue eye) who flew with his new mom, Deb Lewis, to New Hampshire last week. Deb says that mixed breed puppies are few and far between up there because of strict spay/neuter laws. She'd like to help us arrange to send some shelter pups to a rescue group there:
Katie,
I'm embarrassed that it has taken me so long to write to you about Zeke who the kids have renamed Skippy or Skip. He came through the flight with 'flying colors!' I worried about him the whole way but when I picked him up (and took him out of the crate in the middle of the airport!) he acted like he had just gone for a stroll around the block. We arrived to cold and snow and he trotted with his tail held high all the way to the car. He has settled in so well and is getting the routines down. He sleeps through the night in our bedroom with Turbo, has only peed in the house one time, loves to chew on my slippers (bad doggie!)and is so cute going down the stairs, his little bottom wiggling. We took him to the river, the local hangout for dogs and he scrambled up and down the sand banks and got all nice and dirty. He buddied up with a little jack russel terrier there. Right now he is lying right beside me (he's still pretty calm in the house) after an evening stroll around the block to take care of 'business'. He gets up every morning with Turbo and me and walks through the park. He stays right near me but loves to scamper after the big dogs. Turbo (who's now prowling through Skippy's crate looking for stray puppy chow) has been ok, growling a bit but Skippy has a bit of Maya in him and has held his ground. They are figuring out the pecking order. Tomorrow he goes to the vet to be checked over. We have not started formal clicker training yet but he already waits in the car until the release word and comes readily for treats (or not!). When we first arrived home, he ran to the couch and made himself right at home.
I know you've probably heard more than you wanted to! But we love this little guy and are grateful that you were such a great foster mom (his social skills are great) and that you allowed me to bring him home to New Hampshire. I am driving down to NC in mid Jan. but that is probably too soon to arrange something as far a the 'puppy express'. I have several contacts to call and explore possibilities.
Both the poochies are now lying beside me. What wonderful creatures dogs are!
More later!
Deb |
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Onslow: The Dog, the Man, the Website (November 2002)
Pam,
I put the start of a web site together for Onslow earlier this morning with what is most likely your picture of him (see http://udlcomputing.cjb.com/onslow/). I showed it to Ann Marie and Ariana a few minutes ago, and explained to Ariana who the guy was in the picture below Ariana and that Onslow was named after him. You should have seen the look on her face. I think she has decided to not believe me as I don't think she was impressed by the picture of the original 'Onslow'.
Below is Onslow, along with his name sake, Geoffrey Hughes, from the British comedy 'Keeping Up Appearances'. |
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Nikki's Sixth Sense (October 2002)
Dear Frances:
Nikki is doing well. She weighed 63 pounds at her visit to the vet last month. She is still as spunky as ever, although she has calmed down a bit, and I stress a bit. I figure that at almost 10 months, I only have a year and 2 months to go! Chewing is still a favorite past time, although we have managed to limit this to the toys and only a few rugs have had to be sacrificed so we are doing pretty good there.
She is my cuddle bug. She loves to just be near us, usually shoving something to throw in our face, but sometimes we have those rare moments where she just wants to be loved on. Her keen sixth sense is usually on and these rare moments occur when we need them the most.
She completed puppy training in May although we have been working a lot at home as well. Nikki has discovered that she loves to play with the frogs that have migrated to our yard. Usually she just paws at them and tries topick them up with her mouth after the pawing fails to produce the jumping result she was hoping for.
She is still torturing our other dog, Maple, but Maple doesn't seem to mind as much any more and has found the designated 'no Play' zones around the house to be very helpful. We have given up buying nylon/cloth collars for Maple since Nikki was chewing them up about every 2 weeks tugging on them trying to get Maple to play so now Maple has the chain collar. Nikki has found other places to grab...her favorite is still Maple's tail!
Every day our love for her grows-as we knew it would being previous dog owners. She has managed to finagle her way into every aspect of our life and every crevice of our hearts. I can't thank you and CARE enough for taking such good care of her until she found her way into our home.
Thanks again!
Gretchen and Mike (and Nikki and Maple too) |
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Shelley-Belle and Pony-Baloney (September 2002)
Hi all. For those of you who met Shelley-Belle when I was fostering her, or heard me talk about how closely bonded she and I were, here's the latest. (Shelley was one of two tiny little brindle pups pulled from CCAS last April.) Her new mom invited me to come visit yesterday, and Shelley was so glad to see me she danced and piddled on the floor! It was like she'd never left. Anyway, I took her a toy, a plush pony, which she and her mom and dad named Pony-Baloney. Here's a picture they took of her at bedtime last night....Shelley and her Pony-Baloney. Wonder if she's thinking of me!
Katie
Update 3/22/03: The picture on the right shows Shelley with her new brother,Munch, who was also adopted from CARE. |
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Princess Joelle (August 2002)
(Note: Joelle and her two siblings had very low birth weights, andwhile her siblings did not make it, the CARE foster nursed Joelleto health, and now to a good home.)
Well, I could go on and on about Joelle and how much I LOVE her - but you already know! She was perfect last night! She only whimpered about 5 mins when we first turned off the lights, but then she was SILENT the rest of the night - she didn't even wake me up this morning. I needed the alarm clock. But of course the second I gave her attention she got all worked up and then I brought her out. She was great she did #1 and #2 and I played with her for 10-15 mins after to give her exercise. She does fine climbing up and down the stairs of our porch. Alexis is home with her today, thank goodness.
Thank you so much for your care of her. She was lucky to have you to care for her when she was ill. I am so glad to have her in my life, especially since she is MY first pet (besides a goldfish)!
I will keep you updated, and you are welcome to visit her.
-Tom |
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Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match... (August 2002)
Frankie, a young male cat, was getting bored, and spending a lot of his time harrassing our 18 year female, Iggy. Iggy got around fine, but between age and her chronic renal failure, she did not appreciate being pounced on by Frankie, who was 3 times her size. Thus, my quest was to add another kitty who would get along with Frankie and provide enough exercise and entertainment that he let Iggy grow old peacefully. And, of course, I wanted to rescue another homeless cat.
In my experience, introducing a new cat to a household where there are 1 or 2 entrenched cats can be a problem. I decided the best chance was to go for a young female, as I have had some success introducing new females to existing males. With this in mind, I sent details of my current situation and needs to CARE, and requested they suggest one of their foster cats or a shelter cat (CARE works closely with the Chatham County Animal Shelter). The unanimous choice was Cleo, a 1 1/2year old female being fostered at Hill Creek Vet.
After a day or so of hiding, Cleo came out and was instant friends with Frankie. And, it kept getting better, as they now play, wrestle, and do some tentative grooming of each other. I am truly surprised at how well Cleo fit in and got along with Frankie - things worked out better than I could have hoped for. And of course, Cleo also gets along great with the humans in the household (at least those over 2 years old). This adoption highlights the value of working with a conscientious and knowledgable rescue group like CARE.
Oh yes - I also happen to be the Webmaster for CARE. And, if you are wondering, Iggy does NOT take kindly to Cleo - Cleo has learned to steer clear of the 5 pound 'old lady'. But, Iggy should appreciate the new serenity brought about by Cleo and Frankie's friendship.
Ok, so it's not a story of a daring rescue, the liberation of an abused animal, a last second rescue from a shelter, or a rehabilitated personality. But it is a happy ending, with another cat finding a caring guardian, and thus making room for the foster to bring in one more homeless cat waiting for its forever home.
Below are pictures of Cleo and her new best friend, Frankie. |
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Franco at Home (August 2002)
Franco is right at home.....
I LOVE HIM!!!!!!!!
He is such a sweatheart!! He had no accidents last night and when Anthony got up at 6:00am I gave Anthony a water bottle and after he was back to sleep, Franco and I took a long walk through my neighborhood. What a charmer!!! My neighbors just adore him and can't believe how gentle he is.
Franco has now discovered that breakfast can be a great time sitting between two kids eating cheerios!! Nicki never ate them so Franco decided he would do the floor cleaning. Anthony laughs at the noise Franco makes when he crunches on them.
Franco is now fast asleep at my feet under the computer desk. It's almost time for me to bring Alicia to pre-school so I have to go, but I will update you more later.
THANKS AGAIN!!! |
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Jackson: Unchained, Banned from Petsmart (August 2002)
Jackson was owner surrendered by a family that left him outside chained to a tree. As a foster dog, he got banned from the Petsmart adoption days on a bum rap...
As you can see below, Jackson has finally found his place in life! |
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Milo, a Southern Dog in Brooklyn (August 2002)
Hi, Pam. Thought I'd say hello (who says New Yorkers aren't friendly?).
Milo is the best dog in the world. He has turned out to be a good swimmer, as we discovered on vacation in Pennsylvania on a hiking/camping trip. I think he surprised himself. He does a mean doggie paddle. He also swam at the pool at my daughter's camp on visiting day.
Milo is now a graduate of both Puppy Kindergarten and Pet Dog 1. He was often used as the demonstration dog in Pet Dog 1 because he learns so quickly and is so sweet. The trainer loves him. He plays really nicely in the park during off leash hours. It's funny how different dogs play differently. With some, they just wrestle endlessly. Others like to just chase. Milo will do whatever the other dog seems to want to do.
I check the Chatham Animal Rescue site every now and then and think 'I wonder who's at Pam's house.'
Hope you are well.
Jenet |
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Gabby and the Cats (July 2002)
To my Foster Mom-
Thank you so much for taking care of me until I could go home with my new family. I missed you and having all the other dogs around to play with, but Boo and Chloe (the kitties) made me feel right at home. Boo even came to the door to greet me on my first day! I have my own room (in the kitchen) with a bed and lots of toys. I've only had one accident (tonight) and that was because my mom tried to get the dishes washed before we went for our walk. Oops! I have been to check out a dog park in Chapel Hill, but decided to hang out on the outside just to check things out. This week, I might go to a community concert AND a drive-in movie! I'll be sure to tell you all about it.
I've tried to avoid the camera, but there is one picture of me that I wanted you to have.
Take care of all my buddies!
Love, Gabby |
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Lukas Take A Flying Leap! (July 2002)
(Note: Lukas was an eskie mix that came to the shelter with his brother. On his scheduled last day, he was taken into his foster home, and originallynamed Leo.)
Lukas is the most curious, bravest little guy I've ever known! He is so much fun! He and Rory pretty much ignored each other for the 1st couple of days. Rory had her nose out of joint because Lukas took over Raleigh and Raleigh has always been 'hers'. Now they are all playing together. The food issues have been resolved, there have been (knock wood) no 'accidents' and he loves being out in the 'play-pen'.
Yesterday we took a chance and left them all in the house while we took our grandson to the doctor. We were gone a couple of hours and came home to a house untouched by doggie mouths, paws, etc. GOOD PUPPIES.
Lukas learns new things every day. So do I. I've found that you don't sit down with a cup of hot coffee when he first comes in! Flying dogs and hot coffee don't mix! He's ok, I kept the cup away from him but my chair is a little more brown than it was before!
Kathleen |
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Panda Purrs (July 2002)
Panda is doing pretty good but she constantly gets colds on and off - I have been giving her really good food vitamins and the pills that the vet recommended every day - she looks really good even though she sneezes alot - she is turning into a beautiful baby ... I love her so much that I favor her which is really bad...She loves me too - I mean like a real lot she is very attached to me. Being out of work has been good for all my cats they are with me now sitting right next to me - she actually comes to me when I call her like a dog and gets up on my stomach and rolls around - she never learned how to purr but just the other day her throat was vibrating and no sound was coming out so I know she purrs it just doesn't make any sound - so I know she is happy.
Check out this picture of my beautiful baby..
I hope all is well.
Linnea |
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Petey Shakes a Leg (June 2002)
(Note: Petey was originally Cleetus, a dog that CARE nearlyhad to have an amputation done on.)
Petey is doing GREAT! He knows his new name now, knows sit, stay, and come (when he feels like it!), and is the 'hit' of the neighborhood! I heard one of my neighbors tell him that he is 'a most welcome addition!' EVERYBODY loves him, and he is loving that!! I should have a fenced area within the next week so I can leave him outside some during the day. (Decided not to go with the wireless fencing.) He walks with me every morning, and he's got 3 special playmates (one black lab in particular) that he just adores wrestling and running with. His leg has not seemed to bother him in the least! I worry sometimes that the play gets a little rough, but it hasn't seemed to bother Petey at all. He's chasing squirrels, chipmunks, and deer (and a neighbor's cat a time or two!) and seems to be very happy. He's even learned to play with me some....he didn't understand that at first. He and I have a running battle about the couch (which he's winning) and he's 'claimed' a couple of shoes and a TV remote, but other than that, things have been just wonderful. He's even become a very good eater! He is really a sweet, sweet dog.........
Please come visit him sometime if you can. I'd love for you to see how well he's doing, and I know he'd love to see you again. Thanks, from Petey AND me, for saving him. He and I are both very grateful for the second chance. He's a great dog.
Hope all is well with you and all of yours.
Sharon |
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William: Swimming, Boating, Golfing (June 2002)
I had the opportunity to visit William in his new home in South Carolina. William has manifested well to put it mildly! What a wonderful life. He is bonding very well with his new parents. He looks fantastic with a nice shine to his coat and a happy softness to the touch. After one week in his forever home, William is getting accustomed to having his teeth brushed, swimming and going for boat rides on the lake with his Mom and Dad and canine sister Elsa, dining on adult Science Diet and going for early AM runs on the golf course. William was checked out by their vet on Monday and given a good health report, albeit a touch of arthritis. They have him on Fresh factor and will take him in for base line blood work just to make sure his is normal internally as well. All the discoloration (deep purple) on his underbelly has disappeared and his coat and skin look fantastic. His ears were re-cleaned by the vet and Kirsten continues to flush them a few times per week. William writes to his former foster mom every day.
Melisa |
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Best of Friends (May 2002)
Francis
Keli has been a part of our family for two weeks tonight and all appears to be going well. As you can see by the picture, her and Jac have become the best of friends. It's a delight to see how they spend their time together, in play and just hanging out. No boy could be closer to his dog then Jac and Keli are and no dog could love its master more then Keli does.
Thank you again for the opportunity to adopt her. |
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Filling a Void (May 2002)
My husband and I brought home Necole (Nikki) on Friday, February 22. She is now 44lbs, happy and almost done with her first series of puppy classes! She is very distractable, loves dirt, grass clumps, sticks, rocks, bugs, playing in the bathtub, and is way too cute at 4 am when she puts her paws on the side of the bad and licks my face to let me know she needs to go outside.
She has helped fill a void in our house after the loss of another family pet. She is definately keeping our other dog (Maple) busy and Nikki has almost chewed through Maple's collar from tugging on it during play time.
I'm a bad mom with her recent pictures still in my camara, but as soon as I get them developed, I will send some your way. She does have all her big girl teeth now so I'm anxiously awaiting the restof the growing!
Thank you all for taking such good care of the animals and helping to bring all people the special happiness from the love of a pet. |
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Envy of the Neighborhood (May 2002)
Hi Katie, glad to hear from you. We've renamed Carrie ... hope you don't mind, but we actually named her after you -- Katie! She's doing well and is the envy of all the dog owners in our neighborhood. We've taken some pictures that will send as soon as we get them developed. She does great most of the time, but can be a bit of a handful on walks because she is so friendly ... she wants to meet EVERYONE! She already knows how to sit and lay down, and is getting pretty well housebroken -- only a few accidents here and there. We've been taking her on lots of outings to help with socialization -- her favorite places to go are the Petsmart, Duke Gardens, and Weaver Street Market. One day we took her hiking and she picked up 9 ticks! It turned out to be a good lesson for us in tick removal! We're getting a vet appointment set up asap so that we can get her flea & tick treatment.
We're also planning to enroll in a puppy class, which we're really looking forward to.
Thanks again for bring such a sweetheart into our lives!
Nancy and Will |
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A New Chapter for Duncan (April 2002)
Francis,
Duncan did do a bit of backsliding and attacked our library when we were gone. It's fitting, somehow, for a writer's dog to love books. Now, he likes his crate and everyone is happier.
I've attached some pictures of Duncan and Boomer. Duncan has been great for Boomer and he's very attached to the old man. It took a while before we stopped getting the 'Isn't time he went home?' look from Zoe, our cat, but even she's resigned to Duncan's permanent resident status.
Duncan is so loving I don't know how we ever got along without him. He's a special pup.
Thank you again for all you do for these critters. You are blessed.
David and Jenny |
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Life of Riley (March 2002)
Hi,
I am Riley's mom. I just wanted to let all of you know that he is doing great. He's so smart, like an old man in a young body. He's calm...until we get around water, then there is no telling what will happen. He loves cats, so when the time is right we will get a kitten. He is Reno's brother, you know, the one from Ontario? And look at the resemblance between Riley and Annie. I wonder if she is from the same mom, because the way her personality is described fits Riley about 98%. He's such a joy to have, and as my first dog, I was spoiled because he was so easy to raise as a puppy. He was house trained in about 2 months and held his bathroom through the night as a 6 month old. I am worried that the next puppy or do we get will be crazy and wild. Thanks again.
Suzanne |
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Coping with Kopa (March 2002)
I wanted to write and thank you for allowing us to adopt Kopa. She has been a great addition to our home! I also wanted to let you know she is being treated for demodectic mange, I know it is genetic and I wasn't sure if you needed to let other people know. She has a food allergy, and is suffering from a yeast infection in her ear...we have been to the vet several times and she is making her recovery. She is a wonderful dog! We just wanted to let you know in case there was some other people you needed to contact...
Thanks again
Caithlin and Jason |
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Claire and Roxy (March 2002)
Hello Frances,
I ran across Roxy's original picture with her brother, Fred. It reminded me that I was going to send you a picture of Roxy. I thought you might like to see a cute picture of my daughter Claire acting like Roxy. Claire put her hair up to look like Roxy's tail. Roxy seemed to think it was fun too.
Thank you again for helping Roxy come our way. My husband claims she is the 'best and most beautiful dog in the world'.
Mary Jo James |
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Greta Bounces Back (March 2002)
For all of you who enjoy reading happy ending stories, here's an update on Greta, a German Shorthair Pointer mix that Karen Pool pulled from CCAS last November. She was then placed with me to foster. Greta had scar tissue all the way around her neck where she had been tied, and she was very, very shy of people and new situations, and had an almost flat affect. She was adopted in January, and here's the latest update on her:
Katie,
Sorry about taking so long to get the blanket and collar back to you. We've just been very busy.
Greta is continuing to mature into a wonderful dog. She and Maddy have bonded, and we don't know how we ever lived without her. Her progress has been incredible all across the board. We take her for walks around the block, and she is great. In fact, she keeps Maddy moving along (who tends to want to go slowly and sniff everything). Greta acts pretty tough toward other dogs when on the leash, but is reasonably quickly calmed.
As a few examples of how far she has come, she now greets us at the door when we come home. When we call her name within the house, she runs to us. The greatest breakthrough has been her reaction to hearing her name. Now, she wags her tail. I can't tell you how happy we were the first time we noticed her wagging and smiling when she heard us call her name.
Thanks again for rescuing her. She has come a long way, and her true nature is shining through. She still has a lot of puppy left in her, we wonder if she is just turning one now. The other trait that has really come through is her love of people (which I know is quite surprising, given her past). We have had several friends over, and she warms to them quickly. As for cuddling with Amy and me, she is the queen. The futon barely fits the four of us, occasionally five, when the cat decides to join us.
We caught Greta allowing the cat to sleep on her head the other day. Needless to say, they are getting along fine. Occasionally, Greta wants to play a little roughly with the cat, and the cat hisses and slinks away.
We could go on and on.
Thanks again,
Amy and Jim Landis |
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Bailey Beats Parvo (March 2002)
We brought Bailey home on February 3, 2002. Within just a few hours we were thoroughly attached to this wonderful ball of fur. He loved to snuggle and give us kisses and he was the perfect new addition to our family. Two days later he got sick. He was unable to keep any food and water down, and even after he had stopped eating and drinking completely, he was still vomiting. We gave him love and attention to try to get him to feeling better, but he just seemed to feel worse. After about an hour we could hear his stomach gurgling over the noise of the TV and decided that enough was enough. I wrapped him up in a blanket and held him close as we took him to the emergency vet. The doctor told us that it was probably just worms, and since he had already had his first dose of deworming medication his body was just trying to get rid of everything. So they did a worm test and also a Parvo test just in case. After a few minutes they doctor came in with bad news. Bailey had Parvo. Parvo is an intestinal disease that can completely destroy the lining of the dog's intestines. Parvo can be fatal to dogs even if they go on treatment early. We were devastated, not only was there no guarantee that the treatment would even work but it was extremely expensive. After a few minutes I called the CARE volunteer that fostered Bailey, to let her know that Bailey was sick, and the other puppies may be infected. Katie was wonderful; I don't know what we would have done without her support through all of this. I told her what was happening and without hesitation she said to go forth with the treatment and that CARE would pick up the bill. Unfortunately one of Bailey's brothers was also experiencing some of the same symptoms that Bailey had, and knowing that Bailey had Parvo it was likely that the other puppy did as well. Bailey started treatment right away. We left him at the vet that night and told them to call us with any change. As we drove home we prayed that Bailey would be all right. After an extremely long night I called the vet to check on Bailey. He was doing extremely well, awake and barking at everyone, wanting to play. He still was not 100%, but things were looking good. The vet wanted to keep him for observation for a little while longer but we were welcome to come visit him. That evening after work we went to see Bailey. He got so excited as soon as we walked into the room. He wanted to come home with us but he needed to stay one more night, just to make sure. The next evening we went to get Bailey and bring him home. We were extremely fortunate that we took him in when we did. He made a speedy recovery and is a very happy puppy. I don't know what we would have done without Katie and the staff at the Quail Corners Animal hospital. Everyone was wonderful with him and because of that, we have our Bailey home with us. |
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Harlie and Isabelle (February 2002)
Dear Mom and Dad (you will always be my mom and dad, too)
I hope you enjoy looking at me in the attached pictures. I am very happy in my new home. My new mom and dad love me very much and are always kissing on me. My brother Harlie must love me a lot too....he is always kissing my head and my nose and lets me take over any thing he has. One of my favorite things to do is, after dinner, Harlie and I go downstairs with dad to help him work on his cars. He made Harlie a shimmy pole with some carpet wrapped around a pole in the basement and a high platform to lay on. It is now mine :>) Queen of the Mountain! It is so much fun to run up that pole when Harlie is chasing me and jump on the platform. He follows me but I will not let him get on the platform...tee...hee..hee...I hang my head off and look at him....nah, nah, nah, nah. We eat together, sleep together, poopy together and play all the time. I just taught him how to ! wrestle, so we have spent many hours entertaining mom and dad rolling around on the floor together. There are lots of pictures of us sleeping.....we do that a lot.....it's very tiring being the QUEEN and demanding so much attention.......My mom says she will send you some more pictures every now and then, so you can see me grow up. She said to tell her if you can't see these very good and she will send you the files.
Love you, Isabelle |
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Full Nelson (February 2002)
Francis:
Bill and I are so very glad we got Nelson last Saturday. He has brought so much joy and love to our family. It took Liza less then 48 hours to start playing with him and letting him get semiclose. We haven't seen Liza play for quite some time. She was very patient and careful with Zack. Nelson fit right into the family. He has adjusted like he's been there for months. Last night was his best night overall, although I can't really complain. He does not mind being crated, he just likes for someone to be close when he is in his room. I go to bed when he does, so he can hear/smell me.
He figured out last night, after only 3 walks that it's the time to poop and pee when we walk in the evenings. He has not had 1 accident in the house. He is very gentle and loving and very smart.
Thank you Francis for what you do. There is a special place in heaven for you and others like you.
Will keep you posted.
Nelson sends his love to you and his brothers and sisters.
Victoria |
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Bandit was a Steal (February 2002)
We are having such a ball with Isaac-Bandit, that's what Makenzie calls him. He's such a good pup, and Bogey just loves having a playmate! Here are some cute pictures of the pup. He fits right in with the family. Hope all is well with you and your family.
Wendy |
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Letter from Vinny (January 2002)
Hi Melisa!
I wanted to let you know how I'm doing. I love my new home! I have my own crate and they even allow me to sleep on the bed. I have some new brothers and sisters, too. I kind of ignore the cats, but me and Logan are great pals! We run laps around the house and in the backyard. Logan's kind of slow, so I out lap her a couple of times. I'm keeping in shape, though. My new mom takes me for walks around the neighborhood on my cool new leash. We power walk! I have lots of new toys that I hide under the bed so Logan can't steal them. I know I should learn to share, but I'm not ready for that! Sometimes I go to work with my new dad, and they say I'm going on payroll! I'm moving up in the world; I even caught a mouse in a storage room (though everyone was kind of grossed out). Anyway, I really like it here and I stick to my new mom like glue! She takes me for lots of rides in the car! I'm sending a picture of me, and one of Logan, too. I'm sorry she's sticking her tongue out at you; she thought she was being funny! Well, keep in touch!
Miss you!
Vincent (aka Vinny)
P.S. I love snow!!!! |
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Dry Wall Kitty (December 2001)
Since I know everyone at Chatham Animal Rescue thrives on a happy ending, I'll share the latest update on Dry Wall Kitty!
To recap, Dry Wall Kitty was found dry-walled into a house under construction and had a PCV of 16 (normal is 35). She was so severely anemic that the vet had never seen anything that low unless it was a terminal condition. Four days after initial reading Dry Wall Kitty was at 20 and had gained a full pound. All blood results came back negative for cancer. Vet was still extremely guarded about prospects.
Two weeks later, Dry Wall Kitty weighs 7 pounds (up from 3 1/2) and has....drum roll please...a PCV of 31. Dry Wall Kitty is now a fully certified, vaccinated, loving, inquisitive, energetic, 'Cat'. As the vet said, 'I wish this cat could talk, I would love to hear her story!' I think I did the dance of joy right there in the examination room. I never dreamed of anything this good.
Dry Wall Kitty now has a name. Victoria...Tori...as in Torrey Homes, where she was found. She even has a home, a permanent one. My boyfriend adopted her after taking care of her for two weeks while I was travelling. My evil plan worked - impossible to spend two weeks with a cat on your lap and not want to keep it!
And yes, Prudence (now Heidi), a wonderful adoptee from your organization, is sitting on my lap, purring.
Wishing everyone at Chatham Animal Rescue the merriest of Christmases. You folks do good work! Attached is a photo of the now healthy Tori.
Sincerely,
Suzanne Cross |
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Lonnie's Fated Home (September 2001)
To all,
Lonnie has been adopted by a wonderful couple, in an adoption story with more twists and turns than a Hitchcock movie. I received an application for Lonnie from Gail, who after speaking with her, turned out to be my grammar school friend in NJ. We haven't seen or spoken to each other in 30+ years. We learned we have a tremendous amount in common, probably more than in grammar school (although I doubt we'll be having any more slumber parties!)
Gail took Lonnie for the weekend, worrying slightly about her husband, who claimed he doesn't think it's time yet to get a second dog. He pouted all night Friday, cuz he thought Gail was sneaking Lonnie in (she was!). Saturday Gail went to visit her good friend, Jill, and took Lonnie with her. Jill and her husband David fell in love with Lonnie immediately. Jill had a golden retiever who died in her arms of blissful old age several years ago. David and Jill met right before the dog died. He has never had a dog. When Gail was visiting, David and Lonnie were stretched out on the floor, alternately exchanging kisses.
They wanted to keep Lonnie right then and there, but Gail told them it wasn't her decision. Well, I spoke with them last night and they are a dream couple. Jill is a therapist, and works out of her home. They have a big house and a huge fenced in yard. They love to go on long walks together. As soon as they knew I would let them keep Lonnie, they called Petsmart to see if they were still open - They didn't want Lonnie to go another minute without her own bed, bowl, toys, new collar and lead, etc., etc., etc. (I don't know why they bought the bed, I know where Lonnie's gonna end up sleeping). When they go out of town, Lonnie will stay with Gail.
Two other couples who are also friends of Gail's wanted Lonnie too. I think we may have to appoint Gail the CARE 'recruiter'. These couples both have dogs, and are thinking of another - I told Gail to send them our way!
Whether you're religious or not, you have to admit that some kind of fate played into this adoption!
Pam |
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Molly the Lab Finds a Home (September 2001)
Molly is doing great. She is already a full-fledged member of the Bookhout family. She has definitely worked her way into everyone's heart, except maybe our bird's. They are still working things out a little. Not on Molly's part. Molly would like to make friends, but Fluffy is somewhat reluctant, batting her wings and opening her beak as if to attack. Molly shows good judgment and doesn't push her way.
My son and husband came home Monday night and both instantly fell for her. My son has taken her for a long walk every day. My husband hasn't even complained when she has jumped on our bed every morning to wake me up. That means he likes her as well.
She is sleeping with Megan. She stays up with me until about 11:30 and then she lets me know she wants to go up to bed. I take her out and she runs upstairs and sits outside Megan's door until I let her in. Then up she goes on the bed and just settles nicely. Most of the time she doesn't even wake Megan up.
She has also figured out the sound of the school bus and runs to the door when she hears it. Unfortunately, it stops twice by our house (earlier for the elementary school kids) so she's a little confused why Megan doesn't come in at that time. She will learn soon I am sure.
On her housebreaking skills she is still working. With the run of the whole house I have found a few piddles. I have then realized these occur when she hasn't been out for a few hours and someone tries to get her excited to play with them. It is really the kids that I am now trying to train, so they won't get her excited right after a nap, but will take her out first. I have no doubts it will all work out.
Thanks for fostering her so well. She is very lovey and just precious.
Thanks again,
Lynne |
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Sonic Boom (August 2001)
Frances,
We are just in love with our little Sonic! What a sweet puppy. He seems to be adjusting quite well. He didn't eat too well for the first couple of days and I was a little worried about that. He ate all of his breakfast this morning though and seems to be doing a little more exploring in the back yard. The poor thing has had so many visitors that we have had to limit them so that he can get some naps in! ha ha ha
The trip home [to Indiana, from North Carolina] was great. He slept in the crate and did not whine at all. They stopped every two - three hours and all were happy to get home. He has been sleeping in his crate at night and whines for about 10 - 15 minutes, but then goes to sleep and does not whine again until someone goes downstairs in the morning (usually around 7:00). He met our neighbor's dog and was very well behaved and a little timid.
By the way, did you know that he is REALLY afraid of balloons? Janie got one from a birthday party and he would not even come inside when that balloon was around. It is amazing that he does not jump or scratch or nip at all. He just comes up and sits at our feet until we start to pet him. Then he immediately wants his tummy scratched.
I know it must be hard for you to let these little guys go after caring for them and getting to know them, but be assured that he is getting lots of love, attention and good care. I am taking him to the vet this week for a check-up, and a skin check. He is awfully itchy, but I have not seen any flees. The vet said that the dose of 'frontline' that you gave him on 8/1 should have taken care of any fleas. He seems to have some scabs on his chest so maybe he has some type of dermatitis or something. I am anxious to get him into training because there is no telling what he is capable of! We will ask our vet who he recommends this week.
Janie and Kevin really enjoyed meeting you and seeing y | | |
