This is a foster dog diary post about Major. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.
Last Updated: November 21
Major was a family dog. I don’t know what changed in their family but on January 19, 2019 his family surrendered him to the local animal shelter, and his troubles were just beginning.
Temperament: Playful, affectionate, bouncy. Occasional bursts of violence.
Gets Along with Dogs: Undecided
Gets Along with Cats: Unknown
Gets Along with People: Usually
Gets Along with Children: Undecided
Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes
Departure date: November 21
History
Major’s family brought him to the Friends Animal Shelter in Newport to surrender him. While they were there, Major appeared to be a happy, bouncy boy. But when his family left him there and went away, Major became upset, then angry, then vicious.
The shelter asked me to come look at him and determine if they were going to have to destroy him. Their staff was unable to handle him or clean his kennel. I arrived with a pocket full of peanut butter dog treats. Nearly all dogs love these things. In about 20 minutes I had him calmly eating out of my hand. I showed their Vet Tech, Carol, what I had done and how to handle him. She continued these techniques and got him settled enough to place him up for adoption.
Except he was not adopted. Nine months later, he’s still there and is showing signs of shelter psychosis. And he gets vicious with some shelter staffers. So they reached out to me once again, would I foster him to get him out of the shelter environment and help him regain his sanity? Yes, of course I will help Major.
Progress Summary:
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
Dog to Dog Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Yes (everyone I’ve tried him with)
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes
Dog to People Behavior
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Unknown
Jumps up on people: Sometimes
Mouths: No
Walks well on a leash: Working on that (see Oct 14 below)
Heartworm preventative:
. 09/13/2019, Ivermectin solution, 0.6 ml
. 10/14/2019, Ivermectin/glycerine, 0.7 ml
NOTES:
. Showed signs of stress at the shelter, is aggressive with select staff members. During assessment on 08/31 to 09/07 he responded well to both Marie and I on all visits.
Diet
4health Salmon and Potato recipe, 1½ cups AM, 1¼ cups PM. I am underfeeding to get his weight down.
Gallery
Progress Updates
In chronological order, newest at the bottom. Some pictures are linked to a more detailed Doggy Tale about that update, click those to open the related story.
Sept 8
I have visited with Major 3 times now and have had no trouble with him. I can go into his kennel, pet him, hand him treats, and he will sit on command. If I encourage play, he gets revved up quickly and can be a bit overwhelming. He *needs* some room to run and a low stress environment. He will get that on Monday.
Sept 9
I picked up Major today. He gave me no trouble at all, in fact once I got my transport box inside his kennel I prepared to lure him into the box with treats. But as soon as I opened the door, Major scooted inside and said, “I’m ready, lets go!” Carol helped me load him up and he rode well on the trip home.
He enjoyed exploring our play yard and has settled into his room. All the other dogs have come by to say “howdy” and no ugliness came of it. We’re off to a great start.
Sept 10
Major responds well to the “come” and “sit” command. Generally, even if he is all the way across the yard from me, if I call out “Major, COME!” he will come racing across the yard as though it is pure joy to comply. The only exception so far has been if he’s “busy” either doing his business or seeking a place to do it, he will finish up and then come running. That’s okay by me!
And let’s do a food aggression test …
Sept 12
Major has been here three full days now and has not once peed or pooped in his kennel. I let him out every few hours during the day and he takes care of his needs in the yard. I praise him for that, but he may well be housebroken already.
Major is also getting quite playful now that he’s settling in and getting to know the others. He and Blondie Bear had their first play session. Things were tense at first …
Sept 16
Major has not been especially, “frisky” when it comes to solo play time, either in his room or in the yard. But this morning he decided to frisk things up a bit by tossing around his Benebone.
Sept 18
Major appears to have lost some weight: he’s got more of a waist to him now. That might be why he’s more willing to run and play now. That will only help speed the trimming down and toning up process. He has an appointment at Cedarwood for a Rabies shot on Friday. I’ll weigh him on their big scale then and see how he’s doing. He has still kept his kennel immaculate. He really wants to be a house dog again.
Sept 20
Major and I had a nice play session, then it was time to take him for his rabies shot. He let me put a harness on him (better control than a collar should he need to be controlled) and I thought about letting him ride behind the seats, but he can get pretty bouncy, and with no one else around to help settle him, that could get dangerous. I can’t drive and soothe a big bouncy dog. So I decided to use the transport box. I opened up the back of the truck and the door on the box and said, “In your room” and Major stood up, put his front feet on the tailgate, and hopped on his back feet. He was willing but couldn’t get them up there, so I gave him a boost. He didn’t like that, swing around and bit me on the face.
Puncture wounds this time, no flaps of skin hanging. But his teeth hit my jaw bone, and that HURTS.
I put an ice pack on it and called the vet to cancel our appointment. Then I notified the animal shelter of the incident, haven’t heard back from them yet. Than I mopped the blood off the floor and went to sit down for a bit to just mash that ice pack onto my jaw and cheek.
When the bleeding had almost stopped I fixed a sandwich for lunch and rehashed the morning, looking for what I did wrong. There are several things. But to do them better would require more than just me being present. That seems to be a recurring theme.
On the brighter side, when I let him out for his afternoon play, he responded to me as he always does, not appearing to be holding any animosity toward me.
Oct. 4th
It’s been two weeks since our unfortunate incident and there has been no more incidents of aggression. In fact he has been responding to me as he always had before: a big happy, bouncy boy.
I want to try him at playing with some of the other dogs, but I need a helper to do that right, because if it goes badly it will go bad quickly with Major.
One thing I do have to give him credit for is that in the (almost) month he’s been here, he has always kept his kennel pristinely clean. All I’ve ever had to remove from his floor is fur. Major seems majorly housebroken. I truly wish I knew if he could be trusted to to get cranky with the other dogs, I’m sure he’d be happier as a house dog and that would get him back on track faster.
He doesn’t spend a lot of time in the yard either. He might linger more if he had a playmate but most times he goes out to take care of business, then is ready to go to his room and get his cookie.
Occasionally Blondie Bear with play with him a little, but she’s not into the rough and tumble play any more.
Oct. 11
Fur is all I ever remove from Major’s room.
This week has been just holding steady for Major. No hint of aggression, keeping his room immaculate, playing well with Blondie, and showing signs that he’d like to play with Rosco.
The cool weather makes him bouncier than ever and he’s doing more running. The running is good, the bouncing can be a little intimidating. I think he’s picking some of that up from Rosco. Rosco has the bad habit of running around me, jumping up and nipping my hands to get my attention. Major’s picking up Rosco’s bad habit. But when I push him away and say, “down!” he does settle. Once he’s staying down I’ll pet him.
Oct. 14
Major is still dedicated to keeping his kennel clean. He is doing better at leash walking, and was calm during his petting session today.
Nov 11
The past month has seen improvement in Majors leash walking skills, and regression on his people interaction skills. He’s gone back to jumping up on me, something I had him broken of. I’m pretty sure this is because he sees Rosco doing it and getting attention from is — even if it is a scolding. I need to spend more quality time just hanging out with Major.
He seems to want to play with the other dogs, but his body language is hard to read: not sure if it play or a fight he’s after. But he IS quite the Homebody. He likes his room, appreciates the blankets and cushions, and keeps his room clean and tidy. He really should be an in-the-house dog. If only I could be sure what his intentions toward the others are.
Nov. 21
It was getting really cold at night a while back and I crated Major in the bunkhouse from 9:00 PM until breakfast time at 6:00 AM. He really liked being inside and eagerly looked forward to settling into his crate for the night. Once the cold snap was past I continued crating him at night, just because he did like it so much and was so good in his crate.
Last night was no different from any other: I took him in ahead of the other two, when we got through the building door I let go of his lead and closed the door while Major scooted into his crate, turned around and plopped down ready to receive his cookie after I retrieved the slip-lead and closed the crate door. Only this time when I reached in for the lead he bit me! Viciously. Not a playful nip gone awry. Blood was pouring out of my hand (graphic image), so I secured Major’s crate door, scolded him briefly, then went in my house to make repairs before moving the other two dogs inside.
I notified the Friends Shelter of the incident and asked them to come pick him up. Obviously, I’m not making the progress with him that I thought I was.
I was going to leave him in his crate this morning but, not knowing when or if anyone was coming for him — and knowing that needing to “go” and being crated would SERIOUSLY stress him out, I decided to move him to his kennel for breakfast, then allow his morning potty run – just like always. He did fine until I tried to pop the buckle on his collar (wanted to salvage the collar and tag) and he snapped at me again. He missed. I’ll sacrifice the collar and tag.
When Elishia (Shelter Manager) and crew arrived with a large trap to transport him in, he went into the box warily but once the door was closed and he was trapped he was baring his teeth and snarling at everyone.
The shelter staff all had a good cry this morning while they prepared. I’m feeling sick to my stomach for having failed him. Most of the time Major was a big, bouncy, happy boy. But that tendency to suddenly lash out without warning or apparent cause is deeply disturbing. We hoped that some resort time at Piney Mountain would allow him to de-stress and recover. But, as Elishia put it, “When he lost his family it broke him, and he’s just not getting over that.”
Rest in peace, Major, may you find happier times over the Rainbow Bridge.
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This is a foster dog diary post about Rosco. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.
Last Updated: Nov. 15
Rosco Steele is one of several siblings who were rescued from a hoarding situation and have been in foster care. His sister, Sable, was staying with us until just recently. I can definitely see the family traits.
In chronological order, newest at the bottom. Some pictures are linked to a more detailed Doggy Tale about that update, click those to open the related story.
Gallery
Sept 21
Rosco is definitely Sable’s brother! Their mannerisms are so much alike its spooky. Like Sable, he is affection starved, like Sable he is really rowdy, like Sable he has no clue how to properly interact with people. But these things are why he is here at Piney Mountain: we will teach him these and he will become a good pet for someone. Like Sable, he will always be an active dog, suited for a family that likes a lot of activity, not a family that wants a couch potato.
So far he is getting along great with his kennel-neighbors, Major and Faith. He does not stir up trouble. His most annoying habit is to “yip, yip, yip” all night long if I leave him outside with the others. To combat that I take him inside the bunkhouse and crate him. He’s not fond of that, but Faith and Major get jealous because they both want very much to be House Dogs and try to get through the gate to the bunkhouse when I let them out for their late night potty runs if I take Rosco inside first. Once everything settles down, Rosco does too and he seems to sleep all night. So far he has not torn up the blanket in his crate either.
Sept 23
This morning was the first time he left me alone to clean his kennel and went off to explore the play yard. Before this he tended to be with me, underfoot and in the way as he demanded attention, while I worked. My neighbor was out watering her garden and Rosco decided she needed barking at, so that helped to draw him away for a while. He also peed in the yard for the first time I praised him lavishly for that, hopefully it will encourage him to do that more often.
He is also sleeping through the night once I crate him in the bunkhouse. I get him out again as soon as possible in the morning and he has not messed up his crate.
Sept 29
For the past three nights Rosco has been sleeping outside with his foster friends instead of being herded inside the bunkhouse to be crated so he doesn’t keep the whole mountain awake with his shrill (and LOUD) barking. He seems to have learned that being well behaved means he gets to stay out with his friends.
Last night he did get into a session of howling between 2:30 and 3:30, but it was a soft “wooo, wooo, wooo” and it was intermittent. I doubt it disturbed anyone. I probably would not have heard it had I not been awake anyway.
Oct 4
Yesterday Marie got home late because she stopped for groceries on the way. Feeding time for all of us was later than normal as a result.
I was out feeding the foster dogs and Rosco started growling, snarling, and barking viciously: his back was up and teeth showing. But he was facing the back of the kennels. “What in the world is going on here?” I wondered, and I began looking to see what he was so upset about.
Then I realized: the setting sun was casting my shadow on the back wall of the kennels and he was trying to defend us all from this dark intruder.
Rosco is a knucklehead sometimes, but quite devoted.
Oct. 11
Not much progress this week. He’s a little better at leash walking, but I have to keep him of a really short lead or he runs circles around me and binds my legs. He also still has the bad habit of refusing to pee in the yard, but waiting until he’s back in his room, then squatting like a girl and flooding his room again.
There was another dog that a rescue wanted to pull from Animal Control, and wanted me to foster for a few weeks. But I didn’t have room since none of my current fosters are ready to be in-house dogs. SO I decided to build another kennel. A temporary job, but secure and comfy. Given Rosco’s propensity to pee all over, I decided to move him into the temp-kennel and let Ford have Kennel #2 — once I’d power washed and sanitized it really well.
Well, Ford got pulled by another agency the day before I finished this kennel. I had to make a door from scratch, that took longer than I’d thought. But Rosco seems to actually be happier where he is than he ever was in the “good” kennel. Probably because he’d been on dirt since he was born, and that’s what he’s used to. He’s drinking less water, peeing less, and is willing to use the yard. Go figure!
Nov 12
The past month has seen slow improvement in Rosco’s behavior. He has come to the realization that he gets more affection when he is not a whirling dervish trying to demand my attention by nipping at my hands and tripping me. He is much better at walking on a leash. And he is doing more solo-play (exploration) in the yard, instead of being always running tight circles around my legs.
He is energetic. He will ALWAYS be energetic. His thought processes are frantic, so his attention levels are low. He is still food-centric, so training with treats is counterproductive. Using petting works better.
Nov. 15
We said our “farewell”s to Rosco yesterday as he boarded the rescue bus to New Jersey. He did us proud. Earlier in the day he had blood drawn for a heartworm test, he sat still and didn’t even flinch at teh needle stick.
He was talkative (yippy) as we drove hither and yon, but wasn’t thrashing around in his crate.
When we got to the transport site he walked calmly to the staging area and was timid but controlled as other people greeted him. He let me lift him into his crate and entered willingly.
In short: he behaved like a normal dog, which has been our goal all along. Good boy, Rosco, and happy tails to you!
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This is a foster dog diary post about Louis. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.
Last Updated: Sept 15
Pulled from Newport Animal Control by Steele Away Home – Canine Foster and Rescue. PMFC is fostering.
Base Info:
Arrival date: Sept 7, 2019
Breed: Hound
Sex: Male
Age: Puppy, Young Adult, Mature, Senior
Weight: 39.4 Pounds
Neutered: Yes
General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
Temperament: Typical for a hound
Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
Gets Along with Cats: Unknown
Gets Along with People: Yes
Crate Trained: No
Housebroken: No
Departure date: Sept 12, 2019 going to S.A.V.E.
History
Unknown
Progress Summary:
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
Dog to Dog Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Yes
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: No Yes
Dog to People Behavior
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Yes
NOTES:
. Has a scabby spot on lower back which looks to be from chewing or rubbing against kennel fencing.
.
Diet
4health Salmon & Potato recipe kibble
1¼ cup in AM, 1 cup in PM
Progress Updates
In chronological order, newest at the bottom. Some pictures are linked to a more detailed Doggy Tale about that update, click those to open the related story.
Sept 7th
Louis making like a frog
I picked Louis up from Animal Control this morning and took him to Steele Away Home’s medical day for neutering. He crated up and rode well, deciding that making like a splayed frog was hes best way to ride. It worked and he rode there and them home like this without peeing or pooping in his crate.
I’m told he was good while he waited to: no fussing or carrying on in his crate. He seems to not be bothered much by his surgery, and has not been licking at his incision.
Sept 12
Louis left us today, heading to New Jersey to find a forever home through S.A.V.E. He rode well, walked politely to the staging area and crated up without a fuss. He’s a good boy, a handsome boy, and I hope he finds a home again quickly. Safe travels Louis!
Sept 15
ADOPTED!
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Departure date: May 8th, headed directly to her forever home in New York!
History
Picked up as a stray July 31, 2019 and never claimed, Faith is in search of a loving home. After having been at Animal Control for too long, Dr. Sandra Manes DVM pulled her, to be sure she was safe, and asked Piney Mountain to foster her. Faith was overweight and in need of some serenity. We have been addressing both of those issues.
Faith Lou-Ellen’s Progress Summary:
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
Dog to Dog Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: She now does well with all dogs. Avoids confrontation.
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes Has done so in her kennel/crate with other dogs just outside. Have not tried free-ranging this yet.
Style of play: Her favorite thing to do while shes out in the play yard is to flip on her back and wiggle-scooch down a hill. Now that she’s losing weight she enjoys running. Bounces around a little with Blondie Bear.
Dog to People Behavior
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Yes
Jumps up on people: Yes – but getting better
Mouths: No
Walks well on a leash: Doing better – working on this. She likes to walk herself! (see Dec 16)
In chronological order, newest at the bottom. Some pictures are linked to a more detailed Doggy Tale about that update, click those to open the related story.
Sept 9
Faith was supposed to be coming here today, a foster dog who was supposed to be leaving on last weeks transport got bumped to next week’s run. So I don’t have a vacancy yet. This should be corrected on Thursday the 12th. Once she’s here I can begin the evaluation and provide more detailed information.
Sept 12
Faith has arrived. She rode well. When I let her out in the play yard she peed, pooped, then rolled on her back and wiggle-scooted all the way down the hill. She’s a hoot!
Due to a sudden change in The Plan a dog that was supposed to have left last week didn’t, and a change to Faith’s recent housing brought Faith here a little early and I do not have an empty kennel for her. But I will in a few hours. So Faith is lounging in a crate until Louis and Sable leave this afternoon. She seems content with that for now, and the whole gang has come by the say, “howdy!”
Sept 13
Yesterday I found blood on the floor of her kennel, and blood on her foot, though she wouldn’t let me have a good look. This morning I found her Benebone chew toy bloodied up. Her gum is bleeding around a tooth, left side, lower jaw, about half way back.
I removed the Benebone and replaced it with a rope toy. I’ve alerted Dr. Sandra, we will see what needs doing next week. This might be why she’s not eating the kibble too. I have some canned food. I’ll try that until she see’s her vet.
Sept 16
I made an appointment with Cedarwood Veterinary Hospital to sedate Faith and have a good look at her teeth – and trim her toenails. Since I removed the Benebone I’ve seen no blood on the floor or in her mouth. She is eating kibble now too, apparently without discomfort.
Sept 18
I took Faith to Cedarwood Veterinary Hospital this morning. I put her in a harness to avoid choking her when she pulled on the leash. She rode well and did well in the reception area.
Faith allowed the good folks at Cedarwood to examine her teeth and gums without being sedated. They found indications that she had scratched her gums (probably with that chew toy) but that had healed. Her teeth and gums are in great shape with only level 2 tartar. She’s also down to around 61 pounds! Yay!
Sept 23
Faith is doing better with the “come” command. She is settled into her kennel and seems to like spending time in her dog house. She lays on her Kuranda dog bed in the afternoons when it gets warm.
Faith & Blondie “play”
Hiding from the hose as I clean neighboring kennel
Being my gardening assistant
Siesta time
Sunning while I clean her room.
Sept 25
Yesterday I bought a couple of Bully Horns for the doggos to chew on. I particularly wanted one for Faith because the Benebones I bought them tend to “fuzz up” and that roughness was scratching her gums and making them bleed. So I took it away and gave her a ropey toy. She would rather have a proper chew toy and has tried to steal Rosco’s through their common wall.
I was hoping to post a video yesterday of how much Faith liked this new chew toy, but, alas, she ignored it all afternoon and evening. But this morning, when I went out to clean kennels, she was doing this:
Oct 4
It’s a brisk 68° this morning and Faith is running all over the place. The nice cool temps help, but so does the fact that she’s lost about 8 pounds since intake.
Oct 11
Since Faith has been here, she has been going out into the yard with Blondie Bear. Faith pretty much ignored Blondie until this past week. One day early in the week I noticed the two of them bouncing around and playing a bit while I cleaned Faith’s kennel. It didn’t last long then, Faith wandered off. A couple of days later they were at it again, and I got my camera out to record their fun. But as soon as I turned my attention to them, Faith’s attitude changed:
As you can see her tail is low and slow,her eyes are round, mouth closed, and she’s licking her lips. All signs of tension. Violence was about to break out. This is not the first time with Faith, she has gone after Major and Callie because they were close to me. This is jealousy driven. Acting this way toward Blondie Bear is new.
I called Faith with a happy, excited voice. Faith broke off from the impeding confrontation and came running over to me. I kept her in her kennel while I finished cleaning.
The next day, everything was back to normal as the girls ignored one another. Faith was happy to lay in the sunshine. The following day they were again playing and seemed to be keeping it civil. So I kept an eye on them, but out of the corner of my eye, not looking directly at them, and I skirted around them as I cleaned the yard. They played for a while, then Faith came to see if her room was done and I had a treat for her. Much better!
Oct 17
It’s been getting chilly at night – and will get chillier in a couple of days – and Faith has short fur and a bare-naked belly. So a couple of mornings I took two old polar fleece blankets out and put them in her dog house after I cleaned her kennel. Faith saw me carrying the blankets and was excited by them. When I let her back in her room she flew right past me and her treat, dove into the dog house, ran a couple of laps inside, then settled in the door, “THANK YOU!”
Poor Faith is accustomed to finer living. She obviously was a house dog, house broken, accustomed to furniture privileges and a lot of attention. But because she needs to be an only dog (she gets jealous with *some* dogs) the rescues we’ve approached won’t take her. She needs to be good with *all* dogs for them to want her. She is not a mean dog and if she were integrated properly into a house with another dog as she bonded with the people it should work out fine. We were not able to do that with her here because we already had FIVE dogs in our little house.
We’ve started bringing Faith inside at night. She and Callie have had issues and one major spat, so I cannot allow Faith to roam the house until we get that issue resolved. But Faith is delighted to be inside, even if it’s just barely inside. And she likes Glen Miller music, she even keeps rhythm with her tail.
Nov 15
Faith has done well in allowing the other dogs to parade past her crate on their way to and from the door to the outside. Weekends are special times for us at PMFC, a time of extra togetherness. Faith has been moved from the laundry room to the main room where she can see and — to a limited extent — participate in these increased activities.
Over the weekend we will experiment with letting Faith out – on a very short leash – to interact with the other dogs. If she does well, it will be a major step in certifying her as “adoptable”.
Nov. 24
This week Faith received another housing upgrade: she moved into a wire crate to allow her to be more “connected” with the other dogs. And by setting up the space heater near her crate we encourage the other dogs to come camp out near her so she gets used to their presence.
Buddy Beagle is fine with her being here as long as she is in her crate, when I take her out to go potty, get a drink, or have some free-play time Buddy has to go outdoors to a kennel or he bays and hollers at her. She pays him no mind, but it annoys me. All the others have adapted to her, and she is mostly tolerant of them. Two incidents of her grousing at the others: one awoke her from a sound sleep and may have been triggered by a dream. The other, Josephine was sniffing at Faith’s hoofie, which had gotten shoved into a corner of her crate. No issues at feeding time, though Blondie and Josie routinely eat right beside Faith’s crate.
Typically Faith paws at her crate door only if she needs to go out to potty or if she needs to get a drink. The rest of the time she lounges peacefully, grateful to be in the house with us.
I want snuggles too!
Today after church, she pawed at the door. I secured the loudmouth dog and closed room doors leaving the way to the backdoor clear, then I let her out of her crate.
But she didn’t trot off to the back door so she could potty. She didn’t scamper around the kitchen island to get a drink. She rushed to where Marie had settled to pet Josephine, Faith wanted snuggles too.
Nov. 30
Faith is getting depressed. Too many grey days, too much time spent in her crate while 5 other dogs get free-run of the house. So this morning I crated everyone but Blondie and Josephine and let Faith out to free-range for a while. She decided all she really wanted was to spend some time in my company. So we snuggled for a while as she got some scritchies. Then she settled in nearby while I took care of some bookkeeping and communications work.
Faith really needs to find a home to call her own. The safest bet would be a home with with no assertive dogs. She does fine with mild-mannered dogs, but reacts badly to dogs who get in her face. Other than that, she is an absolute sweetheart, exceptionally loving, and calm most of the time. She’s also a complete homebody. She likes to lay in the sun when that’s available, but otherwise prefers to be indoors.
Dec 9
Faith injured her right front foot end of last week. Of course, injuries ALWAYS occur right before the weekend while the vet is closed. I took her in this morning for an exam and eval. Currently waiting for a call-back …
Over the weekend, Faith enjoyed some added freedom in the form of free-ranging in the house. She has been doing MUCH better about not getting jealous and possessive of The Peoples attention. She has had weeks of resting in her wire crate, watching how family dynamics are supposed to work, and has decided she’d like to be part of that.
Sharing with Josie
Not begging
After meal scritchies
Snuggles from Marie
The word came: they don’t know WHAT that is. She came home with an antibiotic and I’m to keep her from licking at it, and they’ll recheck in a week. Dr. Sandra suggested putting a baby sock on it — everyone has baby socks laying around — to cushion it when she walks.
Since we never had (human) children we have no grandchildren and no baby socks laying around. So Marie bought some. I doubled a pair (one inside the other) and we managed to get it on her and held loosely in place with medical tape. So far she’s being really good about leaving it alone. When she goes outside in the snow and mud to potty I secure a baggie over her sock while she’s outside. Doggie galoshes. Or Galosh, since it’s just one.
Dec 15
Poor Faith’s foot is still sore. We’ve tried a number of things to cushion it and to keep her from licking at it. The socks worked well until she started licking at the sock, then that would get wet from the saliva. I coned her for a day, but had to relent on that because she practically went catatonic on us.
On the positive side, Faith has been integrating well into our gang. I suppose I should say that our gang is accepting her, since the tensions were coming from Buddy and Callie, not Faith. But Faith would react to those tensions. Faith is no longer reacting, and the grumpy ones have backed off.
So much so that Faith and her nemesis, Callie Roo actually shared a sun puddle today. Partly because there is a shortage of indoor sun puddles, but also because these two have put their rocky history behind them. They once got into a tussle and chewed each other up a little. Callie holds grudges.
Buddy Beagle has finally decided he doesn’t need to scream “INTRUDER INTRUDER” every time she comes in, or goes out, or moves from one room to another. I don’t know what makes that old boy do that, it’s just Buddy’s way.
Dec 16
We’re off to see the veterinarian about her foot again, but Faith says, “I’m a big girl, I can walk myself.”
It appears Faith is going to need surgery to remove that growth from between her foot pads. That’s not good news to her or us. But at least she did get to stretch out on this thick rubber mat. That’s her favorite part of a vet visit … next to the truck ride. She LOVES truck rides.
Dec 19
Faith spend the day at Cedarwood Veterinary Hospital today, where Dr. Courtney Phillips and the support team removed that mass from Faith’s foot. She is home now and resting. Blondie Bear is filling her usual role as nurse.
We used a Kong Cloud e-collar instead of a cone because when we tried a cone to keep her from licking her foot a few days ago she shut down completely, refusing to move at all. She’s doing much better with this … if it is effective in keeping her away from that foot.
The incision needs to be open to the air to promote drying out and healing. We’ll put a boot on her to keep it clean when she goes outside. But otherwise, the Doctor wants the air to be able to get to it.
We took out a Care Credit loan to pay for the surgery and are hoping donors will step up and help us make the payments on the $515.00 charge.
Dec 26
Faith Lou-Ellen is recovering from foot surgery. To keep her from licking I affix a baby sock. THis also cushions her foot as she walks around. To keep that clean and dry when she goes outside I fashion a boot out of a sandwich bag and duct tape.
Dec 29
The histopathology report on Faith’s foot lump came back — benign neoplasm. Doing a happy dance! Neoplasm means “new growth” and most are caused by some abnormal cell reproduction – often cancer. But benign means that even if it is some sort of cancer it is not malignant: not likely to spread.
The final analysis:
COMMENT Histiocytomas are benign neoplasms that often occur in young dogs, although dogs of any age can be affected. Despite incomplete excision, recurrence and regrowth are unlikely.
Good news indeed!
Also, Christine Plouffe of A.R.N.N.E. sent us a proper boot for Faith to wear to protect her foot while outside. Faith thinks it’s hilarious and really enjoys going flump-klomp, flump-klomp, flump-klomp, as she runs around in it. The duct tape and baggie boots I’ve been making make a swish-swish sound that is not nearly so satisfying to her.
Jan 14
Faith Lou-Ellen’s foot is all healed up and the biopsy came back as “Benign, and should nor recurr”. We’re sending out a big “Thank You” to those who contributed to the Faithy’s Foot Fund. A balance due remains, so if you wanted to help before and couldn’t but can now … we’d sure appreciate it.
Faith is again seeking a home. She is the sweetest thing, would love to snuggle with you and discuss her day. She is quite the chatty one, in her cute grumble-speak. She gets along with most dogs, cats, people, but probably not monkeys: monkeys are annoying.
Faith is an older gal but still has plenty of life and vigor in her. She just wants someone to love.
Jan 20
Hanging out with Cheyan
Hanging out with Blondie Bear.
Helping Doug bake dog cookies.
Feb 8
We had a snowy day today. A great opportunity to recline with Marie by the fireplace and just relax.
Feb 17
Buddy and Faith have been getting along fine today. Until they didn’t. There have been a couple of times where Buddy was coming in and Faith wanted to go out and I let them “pass in the night” at the doorway. I also found that Buddy doesn’t yell at her for being loose in the house if he’s not in his crate.
I was feeling really hopeful when they ended up sharing a sunny spot in the den. Faith was on a bed, Buddy was on the carpet. Josephine was at the door wanting in, so I got up to go take care of that. No sooner had I left the room but I heard Buddy issue one sharp bark and Faith came scooting out of the den ran to her room and sat there looking sheepish. I closed her in and went to see about Buddy. He was on the dog bed in the sun looking quite self satisfied. My suspicion is that he bullied her into giving up the sun-bed. So he’s spending some time in his crate too.
March 9
Meal times at Piney Mountain Foster Care are an adventure: some dogs get this kibble some get that kibble, some get stew, some get canned food, some get a combination of these, some get additives like glucosamine, or fish oil, or liver powder, or medications. Often, every bowl is different. Faith Lou-Ellen Snugglebug gets straight kibble. But she smells the other yummy stuff and if I place a bowl of plain kibble in front of her she gives me this look:
But … there’s nothing special in MY bowl.
So I always have to remember to give her a dab of something tasty even though she doesn’t need it. Just because she is SUCH a sweetie. And this sweetie really needs a home to call her own. Won’t anyone adopt Faithy?
March 20
I’ve been crating Callie and letting Faith out to wander the house while I’m inside to monitor. She’s done really well: challenged no one. Even when Buddy Beagle walks up and grumps at her, “I want that bed, you move.” she DOES! So it’s just Callie she doesn’t get along with, and Callie starts that.
I posted Faith to PetFinder.com. Maybe they can help us find her a home.
April 17
Faith Lou-Ellen Snugglebug has slept in a crate at night since she became a house dog. She has been earning Good Dog points and has earned the right to roam freely during the day, so she can pick any of the available dog beds to rest in during the day.
Sometimes she still chooses to rest in her crate, with the door open, especially if I’m in the kitchen cooking.
Then Faithy decided to start calling me to let her out 2, 3, sometimes 4 times during the night, claiming a need to go outside. But it became clear, when it was chilly or raining out, that her need was not to go use the yard, but just to get out of her crate. So I decided to expand her bedroom at night, giving her access to the living room and the snuggle beds in there. But I warned her that if I caught her on the sofa, it was back to the crate for her. She has complied with that edict, so she remained able to call the living room hers at night. Until last night.
Faithy Lou spent the evening snoozing on a bed in the den with Phoenix. Time for bed rolled around and I began running dogs outside for their bedtime potty run. Faith declined. She had been out recently and I know from experience that if she does not need to go, she will just stand on the porch staring at the door, then expect a treat when she comes in because she WAS outside. So I encouraged her to move to the living room so I could erect her barrier to keep Callie from causing trouble in the night. Probably unnecessary because once Callie goes to sleep she is usually out for the night and won’t move again until morning. Usually, but not always. So I barricade for safety.
But Faith was comfy where she was and began “mooing” at me in her funny grumble-speak that she wanted to have a sleep-over with Phoenix. Phoenix said she would enjoy the company too. So I dispensed bed-time cookies, tucked Faith in, barricaded the den door, and went to bed.
The night was quiet, no interruptions to my sleep. At least not by canines, my bladder woke me once. And I checked on everyone. Everyone was fine.
After breakfast Faith and Pheenie went back to their positions and even when Blondie Bear brought her stick-treat in the den to eat it, Faith didn’t budge. She’s a good girl, and becoming more of an accomplished house dog all the time.
April 22
When Faith Lou-Ellen first arrived here she was accustomed to being the only dog and was jealous of any other dog getting attention. She was demanding when she wanted something another dog had – like a bed or toy. This led to several confrontations, a couple of them bloody.
But she has since learned to get along well with everyone except Callie. Callie hold grudges. But any animosity between them is entirely on Callie.
Here is an example: Faithy has become accustomed to hanging out in the den with some of the other dogs when I’m in there working. She is particularly fond of the bed closest to my book case. Today she walked in and found Buddy sacked out on her favorite bed and all the other beds taken. But rather than make a stink, she accepted what was left: a completely sub-standard resting place, but at least she’s in here with the rest of us. She could have gone into the bedroom and had her choice of cushy beds, but she’d be alone. Sometimes, she’s fine with that. Today she wanted company and was willing to compromise to get it. Good Girl!
May 1
A few weeks ago a family who has adopted one of our dogs before (also a boxer) said they would like to adopt Faith as a companion and playmate to him. But travel restrictions in their state have blocked that happening until now. So I have scheduled an appointment for a health certification so Faith can travel interstate and we hope to have her on her way next Friday, May 8th.
May 11
Faith Lou-Ellen’s health certification and transport went off without a hitch, and she is settling in with her new family. Faith’s Mom has been keeping in touch, supplying photos and descriptions.
Faith is stand-offish at first.
Their other dog, Julian, is (as I expected) being just wonderful with Faith. She was a little touchy at first about his curiosity (and sniffing) but he gave her some space and they are now friends and companions. Not really playmates yet, Faith has never been much into play. She’s a cuddle baby.
Julian has always been “Daddy’s Boy” and Faith is showing a preference for the Mom, who loves Faith too. Faith wants to be with Mom, who is working from home, all the time but is uneasy with the flight of stairs she must scale to get to the upper level. Faith always did fine with the 4 steps on our back porch, but a whole flight of stairs is probably daunting to a stumpy legged gal. Losing a few more pounds would probably help. I’m sure she will get past that inhibition.
But she has no trouble getting up on their sofa! Faith DOES love sofa snoozing!
The family also have a couple of teen-aged younguns to help entertain and care for Faith so she should have no lack of companionship.
It’s been a long road for Miss Faithy, but she’s finally home.
May 19
Faith and Julian have become great friends. Their Mom posted a video of Faith taking Julian for a walk: she has the leash in her teeth (as she is accustomed to doing with her own leash) and is leading Jules all over the place, and he seems pleased as punch to play along with this game. What a great pair they make!
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This is a foster dog diary post about Martin. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.
Last Updated: Dec. 24, 2019
This sweet, affectionate little fellow looks like a puppy, but he’s not. He is almost 2 years old, thus fully grown, and a really good boy.
Base Info:
Arrival date: Aug. 23
Breed: Golden Retriever / Black Lab / Husky
Sex: Male
Age: Puppy, Young Adult, Mature, Senior
Weight: 47 Pounds
Spay/Neutered: Sept 4th, 2019
General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
Temperament: Gentle, sweet, well-behaved.
Gets Along with Dogs: Yes, loves to play.
Gets Along with Cats: Yes. If they run, he will chase. If they confront him, he backs down.
Gets Along with People: Yes
Gets Along with Children: Yes, he loves kids.
Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes.
Departure date:August 26thOctober 21, 2019 November 8, 2019
History
This precious boy was removed from an abusive environment, along with several other dogs. He was living in a small pen on someone’s porch. But you would not know it by his behavior, he is as loving and eager to please and any dog from a perfect home. Martin was adopted, and well loved, but had to be returned due to no fault of his own.
Progress Summary:
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
Dog to Dog Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Yes
Can eat food/treats near other dogs Yes
Dog to People Behavior
Is affectionate: Yes (gives great hugs)
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Yes
Jumps up on people: Not really, gives gentle hugs
Mouths: No
Walks well on a leash: Yes
House Dog Training
Willingly enters his crate: Yes
Is calm/quiet while in crate: Yes
Understands going outside to potty: Yes
Alerts me of need to go outside: Yes
Is destructive of bedding and/or toys: No
Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: No
Stays off people furniture: Mostly We allow him on the people bed, not on the living room furniture.
Commands:
Comes when called: Yes
Sits on command: Yes
Down / Off: Yes
Shake / Paw: Yes
Crates on command: Yes (with bribe)
Medical
DA2PP: 08/21/2019 (NAC)
. 10/28/2019 (PMFC)
Bordatella: 08/21/2019 (NAC)
. 10/28/2019 (PMFC)
Wormed:
. 10/26 – 10/28/2019, Fendbendazole, 10 ml
Heartworm preventative:
. 10/18/2019, Ivermectin/Glycerine, 0.5 ml
Progress Updates
In chronological order, newest at the bottom.
Aug 26
We only had the privilege of fostering this sweet boy for a weekend. We “borrowed” him from Newport Animal Control because we knew he was gentle, calm, and affectionate, as well as being a really good looking dog. The Quilts & Canines event was coming up and we figured that would be a great venue to help this boy find a forever home.
I picked him up on Friday and took him to our favorite groomer: Kathy’s Grooming Parlor in Newport. She brushed all the under fur out and bathed him. He came out looking and smelling so much better. He came home and spent the night with us. and we took him to the show on Saturday.
We put him in a portable kennel in front of our booth. It had a roof to keep the rain and or sun off of him. Many people came over to visit with him. Almost all commented on what a well behaved boy he is. Several said they’d adopt him in a heartbeat if it wasn’t for (something).
Someone we are familiar with who was also a “vendor” at the show, came to visit him several times. Finally she said that she just loved this boy and would adopt him in a minute, but can’t afford the adoption fee right now. Another near-by “vendor”, Cathy, overheard this conversation. A little while after Ms. R left, Cathy came and asked if she could take Martin for a walk. We know Cathy well and were confident in her ability to manage Martin.
They walked around the perimeter of the show and ended up at Ms. R’s tent. There they stood and talked for a while. Then they called me over. We discussed several things including what was involved in an adoption and what the adoption fee covers. It’s really quite a bargain, there is no “profit” involved for either Animal Control or the Veterinarian.
Then Cathy said, “If I pay the adoption fee and a couple months of food, would you adopt Martin and give him a good home?”
Ms. R said, “Yes, I’d be happy too” and just then, Martin stood up and hugged her! We were all near tears at that point.
I filled out the adoption paperwork with Ms. R and we agreed on a time to meet at Animal Control so they could finalize things and schedule Martin’s surgery.
That appointment went off without a hitch this morning, and Ms. R took her new family member home with her.
Oct. 18
But it seems the fencing Ms. R has around her yard is not high enough to keep Martin in her yard and she’s afraid he’s going to get hurt by running loose. So, with a broken heart, she returned Martin. We will begin looking for another home for this sweet boy.
Later that afternoon …
It has been an afternoon of whirlwind communications. The connections that were made here are multi-faceted and difficult to explain, but there was a lady, Martha, who stopped by to visit with Martin several times while we had him at Quilts and Canines. She was thinking about adopting him but wasn’t sure she and her husband were ready for another: their last dog had died of old age not long ago. By the time she decided she did want to do this, Martin had already been adopted by Ms.R. Martha was disappointed, but thought, “If that wasn’t Gods plan for them …”
Today I put the word out that he was available again and it worked it’s way quickly back to Martha. Martha called me. We discussed things. I liked what I heard, she liked what she heard. We have a meet & greet between Martin and Martha and her husband scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. We are excited and hopeful.
Oct 19
Martin came in after he had dinner to join our gang for Friday Sci-Fi night. The dogs all got chewies while Marie and I ate dinner. When the dishes and tray tables were cleared away Martin came out to cuddle with Marie in front of the fire.
Teach me how to Facebook, Doug!
At bed time Martin went back to his crate and did fine while we were milling around getting ready. When we settled and the lights went out Martin got lonely and fussy, so I went to sleep on the sofa to be near him. That made him happy and he slept through the night.
This morning he got up and went outside to pee with the other house dogs, then Martin and I went to the den to kill time on the computer. Martin wanted to help.
I took Martin outside and he played with Blondie Bear while I cleaned kennels. He was ZOOMING around and having just the BEST time! That wore him out and when we went inside I trimmed his toenails, wiped the dust and dirt off of him with a damp cloth, then brushed him out. He gave me no trouble at all with any of this. He is SUCH a good boy! He’s resting in his crate with a hoofie until it’s time to go meet his potential new family.
Martin says, “Yeah, I’d like living here.”
The meet-n-greet went well. They loved Martin, Martin enjoyed running around in their large fenced back yard, which includes a large gazebo with a BED in it! A large house with lots of rooms to explore, and he was perfectly well-behaved — well, except for eating a bowl of cat food. But no one held that against him since it WAS on the floor. He liked both Martha and Dick, and wanted to meet their cats, but the cats were hiding.
“I need a snuggle.”
Martin came back home with us for the weekend to give his new family time to prepare for him to move in. We will do the paperwork and make it all official on Monday. Dick and Martha have a history of taking in unwanted dogs and keeping them until they pass on of old age. They have no dogs at the moment, their last one having been euthanized to end her pain after having been with them for 16 years. They said they weren’t going to get any more dogs. But then Martha met Martin … well, one more.
Oct 21
We all met at Newport Animal Control so the management there could fill out the paperwork and make the adoption legal. Then Martin went home with Mommy and Daddy who are having a tough time remembering to refer to martin as he or him because their past several dogs (all long term pets) were female and that pattern is ingrained. Martin says, “I don’t care, as long as you love me.”
Oct 25
We are 0 for2 with Martin, and the reason for the return this time is even more sad than his losing another home.
Martins new dog Daddy is the one who stays home with Martin during the days. Mom works most weekdays. It seems having a bouncy 50 pound dog around has brought home to them just how bad Dad’s health issues are. Martha told me, “I don’t know which is worse, losing Martin or realizing that my husband is so sick.”
Martin even came to an understanding with their cats.
My heart goes out to them, this is really hard for them both.
Martin is back here with us, and we think we have a solution for him. I’m waiting on a return message, then we’ll know.
UPDATE: Animal Rescue Network of New England has accepted him and has made reservations on a rescue transport that rolls through here Friday, November 8th. He needs a couple of tests done and a Health Certification before he can travel across state lines, but three times should be the charm for this charming boy.
Nov. 1
Martins Health Certification went well yesterday. He is healthy over all, free of heartworms and free of intestinal parasites. So he is cleared for interstate travel next weekend. He likes playing outdoors in this chilly weather, he should do well in New England. He’s also quite entertaining at meal times. We enjoy dinner and a show with him around.
Nov 2
We have a ‘No Dogs On the People Furniture’ rule in our house. Guess who feels he’s above the rules?
Nov. 8
This morning we were admiring Martin’s wonderful feet. When we were done he said, “OK, I let you see my feet, now you owe me a belly rub.”
On the way to meet Martins ride to New Hampshire, Martin decided he liked looking out my window best. Once we met up with the PETS Transport, Martin was eager to ride in the BIG truck. At one point he was standing on his hinders with his fore-paws up on the ladder trying his best to get up there by himself like the driver had. He could not quite manage that so I lifted him up there once the driver had Martin’s roomette set up for him with the blanket and hoofie we brought along.
Safe travels, dear Martin!
Dec 24
Martin, has been traveling the East Coast with his foster-to-adopt family. That family has decided they officially LOVE this boy and officially adopted him today. They’re calling him Duncan. Martin says, “That’s okay as long as I get to sleep on the bed.”
The young man in the photo is a home-schooled teen who is his best friend. He takes him for walks several times a day and rides his bike with Martin running alongside. He spends a lot of time with Martin.
This is another example of shelters, fosters, and rescues working together to save canine lives and improve human lives.
A tip of the hat to City of Newport Animal Control for pulling him out of a bad situation, and Animal Rescue Network of New England for finding him the perfect forever home. Merry Christmas, Martin!
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This is a foster dog diary post about Lil Blue. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.
Last Updated: Oct. 12, 2019
Lil Blue had been dumped in a crate outside Animal Control during the weekend. The Manager asked me to look at him. He was scared to death and not doing well. Clearly he could not stay there.
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
For a listing of Doggy Tails that include Lil Blue [click here].
Dog to Dog Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Yes
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes
Dog to People Behavior
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Unknown Probably fine with older kids, may be too energetic for toddlers. In either case, keep his nails trimmed, they get cat-like sharp.
Jumps up on people: Sometimes, but doing better
Mouths: No
Walks well on a leash: Yes
House Dog Training
Willingly enters his crate: Yes
Is calm/quiet while in crate: Yes Unless he needs to go out or is lonely/scared.
Understands going outside to potty: Yes
Alerts me of need to go outside: Yes
Is destructive of bedding and/or toys: No
Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: Yes
. He can’t reach them (lol)
Stays off people furniture: No, but he knows its bad behavior. Likes to test that boundary.
Commands:
Comes when called: Yes
Sits on command: No
Down / Off: Yes
Shake / Paw: No
Kennels on command: Yes
Lil Blue’s Medical
DA2PP: Aug 28, 2019 (PMFC)
Bordatella: Aug 28, 2019 (PMFC)
Wormed: Dates | Product | Dose | By
. Aug 28-30 | Fendbendazole | 5 ml | PMFC
Rabies: Sept 7, 2019 (Claws and Paws)
Spay/Neuter: Sept 7, 2019 (Claws and Paws)
Heartworm Test: Sept 7, 2019, NEGATIVE (Claws and Paws)
Flea/Tick preventative:
. Aug 26, Capstar, 25+ lbs
. Aug 27, Fipronil, 23 – 44 lbs
. Sept 26, TevraPet-Activate-II, 0.8 ml
Notes:
. Infested with fleas at intake and has missing fur and irritated skin along his back. Using Chlorhexadine to prevent infection in the raw spots. Treated him for fleas (see above). I do not think this is mange.
. The vets who neutered him made no mention of skin disease, confirming my diagnosis above. His fur is growing back in too. He’s still itchy, seems to have dry skin.
Diet
Lil Blue is drinking water now so I’ve switched him to a dry diet: 3/4 cup 4heath Salmon & Potato formula twice a day.
Progress Updates
In chronological order, newest at the bottom.
Aug 26
I finished my morning deliveries and went home to e-mail Marie about Blue and the situation he was in. I asked her if I could exceed our limit (again) for this pitiful fella (though we didn’t know what sex he was at the time because he was hunched up against a wall in the back, trembling like a leaf). Marie said, “Go get that poor dog!” So I did. Shades of Josephine’s story. It took a while to earn his trust enough to guide him into a transport box to take him home.
Once I got him back here I let him borrow Blaze’s kennel while I cleaned out the transport box (he got scared during the trip and messed it up) and got things ready to bring him inside. He started calming down as soon as he got here.
Out walking
Do I see Corgi here?
Resting after his walk
I want him to take a Capstar to be sure we aren’t bringing fleas into the house. He won’t eat anything I tried hiding it in (yet). Even lunch meat. Mom gave me some cat food when I took her the mail: that was my secret weapon when I worked at the Jeff County shelter. I’ll try that. If it works I can bring him inside to his room where I can continue working to calm him. He seems like a sweet little boy!
(UPDATE: The cat food worked! He snarfed it down he needs a while for the Capstar to work, then I’ll bring him in and settle him in his crate.
Aug 27
Blue is coming out of his shell today. On our morning walk he had his head up and a spring in his step. There were a couple of times when I said, “Come on lil guy” and he actually followed me. There is hope!
I also looked up some personality traits for Blue Heelers since I don’t know many details about them. The Daily Puppy offered this:
Behavior with Other Animals
As natural herders, these pups try to herd other animals. They can be dominant toward other dogs in herding attempts, although early socialization can mitigate this. Blue heelers also nip the animals they’re herding, again due to instinct. They’re not trying to be mean. For this reason, blue heelers aren’t recommended around cats unless they have been raised with cats from puppyhood.
Behavior with People
In general, blue heelers enjoy a tight family bond, although they will test owners for dominance. If you can assert yourself as the alpha of the pack, your blue heeler will come to respect you. If you’re not willing to consistently take a pack leader stance, you may find the blue heeler temperament and energy level too much to handle. These dogs tend to be suspicious and watchful of strangers. Coupled with their family loyalty, this makes them excellent guard dogs.
He was dumped WITH a cat, so I suspect he’s been raised around cats and is okay with them.
“What? I’m just looking out the window.”
As of Sept 8 I have not seen him trying to herd the other dogs. He likes to run with them, but is mindful of the size difference.
I HAVE seen the heeler dominance testing behavior, especially in regard to our rule of “no dogs on the sofa and people bed”. I am firm but gentle in enforcing the rules and he is slowly accepting my assertion of being alpha.
Aug 29
Oddly enough, Lil Blue is forming a close friendship with Blaze. Our littlest dog chooses to buddy up with our biggest dog? Who’d have thought it? He’s showing more of his true personality too. There is separation anxiety, but that will settle out as he becomes confident he’s not being dumped again. He is good in his crate, and he does let me know when he needs to go outside.
Aug. 30
Happy to be rid of the leash.
Lil Blue has learned to come when called, so I can safely let him out to free-range in the yard. I still go out with him to watch over him (from a distance), but he may go where he wants. He wanders, but he keeps me in sight.
He also gets to free-range inside most of the time. He has been good about letting me know he needs to go outside by scratching on the door.
A little while ago Lil Blue was wandering the room while I worked at my desk. He was being good, just checking things out. Then he came to me, stood up on his hinders and started bouncing his front feet on my leg. That’s new. “What is it little guy, what do you want?”
He hopped down, ran to his room (crate) and stared inside. I looked closely and saw Buddy Beagle curled up in a ball in there. “He’s in my room! Make him get out, it’s MY room.”
I extracted Buddy Beagle. Lil Blue rushed in and took inventory then settled in saying, with a little pout, “It’s MY room!”
Sept 1
Lil Blue has successfully slept through the night twice now. Last night I moved his crate into the bedroom so I could sleep in the bed again. It was a bit snug squeezing his crate in there, since we already have wall-to-wall dogs at night, and Blue had his own idea of a solution, but it worked out.
I took him out for a walk at 9:00 PM, he did his thing, went right back in and settled in his “room”. He slept all the way through to 6:30 AM. I got up to let Buddy Beagle out once and a couple of times to tend to my own needs and Blue didn’t fuss or demand to come along. We went to church this morning and he was okay with that. I think we’ve worked him through his separation anxiety.
Sept. 2
Lil Blue had quite an adventure today. We started by my baking up a bunch of dog treats, most of which I will be delivering tomorrow. Blue is eager for the samples.
Then Blue and I loaded up for a truck ride. Lil Blue was not happy about this, I think he was afraid I too was going to dump him somewhere. I tried to assure him this was nothing like that.
He liked riding in the cart at Tractor Supply Co. while I gathered our monthly supplies. He also liked getting petted and fawned over by a store associate and a customer. One gal said, “You are SO adorable, if I didn’t have 6 dogs and a husband who says, ‘no more dogs’ I’d adopt you in a heart beat.”
The gal at the checkout offered him treats, but he refused them. He knew I had peanut butter treats in my pocket, he wanted one of those.
The ride back home was calmer, I think he figured out that we were on an adventure, not a dastardly deed. When we got home I let him run in the yard while I unloaded and stacked our monthly supply of kibble.
When we went inside, I removed his walking harness and he went to tell his tale to Blondie Bear. She was a touch envious, she loves going to TSC, but she said she was glad he’d had a good time.
Sept 7
Lil Blue was neutered today. When we picked him up from surgery he was happy to see us and bouncy. When his pain meds wore off, he began to walk stiffly and held his ears down flat on his head. He did eat his dinner, leash walked with me several times to do his business, and he slept through the night. He has not been licking at his incision. If he’s still in pain in the morning I’ll get him some baby aspirin.
Sept 8
This morning I had to put Lil Blue in a cone to keep him from licking his neuter incision. He did not like that. He asked me to take it off. I did not.
We went outside after breakfast and Blue just sat in the grass facing away from me, refusing to “do” anything, refusing to acknowledge me when I called him. SO I went inside. Pretty soon he was at the back door with Callie and Jojo wanting back in. But he was still mad at me, I could tell.
So we crated most of the dogs and went to church.
When we got back Blue was so happy to see us he forgot, for a little while, that he was mad at me. We went outside again and Blue was not giving me the cold shoulder but wasn’t being affectionate either. He does get around really well with that cone though.
At dinner time I let Blue Free-range eat with the others. He did extremely well.
Where is Buddy, you ask? Buddy is in his crate eating. Buddy is a pig-dog and cannot be trusted around food. Blondie, Callie, Josie, and Blue mind their own bowls and only their own bowls. They’re good dogs.
And this evening his ears are back on top of his head. He’s feeling perky again and has forgiven me — though he’d still like me to take off the cone.
Sorry, Lil guy, I really am. Not yet. But I’ll buy you a donut in the morning, that will be easier to handle.
He’s done an amazing job of adapting. Blue is a bright and resilient little fellow.
Sept 11
Lil Blue is doing well with his surgical recovery. We bought him a donut collar to replace the cone, and he likes that much better. Not that he had any real trouble with the cone. Unlike most, Blue acclimated to the thing really quickly. This is due in part to the fact he does not walk around with his nose to the ground — which turns the cone into a dozer blade — but also to the fact that he has an unusually heightened sense of spacial proximity. He rarely ran the cone into things.
Lil Blue is now a regular member of the Breakfast Club (and the dinner club), able to eat in close proximity to all the other free-range dogs, and has lost all his anxiety. Until recently he insisted I go out in the yard with him. I didn’t have to be right next to him, but he needed to be able to see me. For the past few days he has been leading the parade around the corner and out into the yard while I stay in the house.
I’m just watching out the window, dad.
Yeah, I caved – he is now allowed on the bed.
After getting his lovins, he sleeps at the foot of the bed.
Guardian of the Realm!
Nap time sentry
I’m ready for bed now.
Lil Blue likes hanging out in his “room”.
Lil Blue thinks he’s a wild dingo dog.
Who? Us? No, we’re not getting rowdy! Really!
“My kitty still loves me” Pouting after his bath.
Sept 28
We took Lil Blue to meet his ride north this morning. We decided to take the Subaru, which is parked out front of our house, instead of the truck, which is always parked over by the kennels. Blue wanted no part of going out the front door, “No, no, you keep telling me not to go out the front.” and he remained skittish until I got him in the car and seated on Marie’s lap. Then he calmed down and rode well.
He got fearful again when I took him out of the car and carried him to the transport van, but once he was in his crate, he settled in, laid down and watched as the other dogs were loaded. He seemed to be doing fine, even as Marie and I disappeared from his sight.
I hope he has a pleasant trip and integrates quickly into his new foster home. I miss him, but wish him well on his journey to finding a forever home.
Sept 29
We heard from Luck 7 Dog Rescue today: Lil Blue arrived safely and is settling into his new foster home well. He is their current Dog of the Week. Judging by his ears, he’s not thrilled with the costuming, but I’m glad he’s being well cared for.
Oct. 12 — ADOPTED!
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This is a foster dog diary post about Cinnamon. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog is kept in one place and in chronological order. If you subscribe for updates, a short note will be sent when updates are posted. If you don’t subscribe, check back periodically to see what’s been added.
Last Updated: Sept 2, 2019
Cinnamon has been bounced around from foster to foster because of behavior issues. Now she’s here at Piney Mountain to have those issues worked on.
Base Info:
Arrival date: Aug 15th, 2019
Breed: Red Heeler
Sex: Female
Age: Puppy, Young Adult, Mature, Senior
Weight: 62 Pounds
Spayed: Yes
General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
Temperament: Calm, affectionate, I’m told she has separation anxiety: I have not seen that.
Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
Gets Along with Cats: Unknown. Kills chickens.
Gets Along with People: Yes
Gets Along with Children: Yes, even toddlers.
Housebroken/Crate Trained: Not yet
Departure date: Sept 6th –> S.A.V.E.
History
Rejected by two other foster homes for behavior issues. Otherwise I know nothing about this dog’s history.
Progress Summary:
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
For a listing of Doggy Tails that include Cinnamon [click here].
Dog to Dog Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Yes
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: No Warns them off with a growl if they get too close.
Dog to People Behavior
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Yes
Jumps up on people: No
Mouths: No
Walks well on a leash: Yes
House Dog Training
Willingly enters her crate: No Yes
Is calm/quiet while in crate: No Yes
Understands going outside to potty No Yes
Alerts me of need to go outside No Yes
Is destructive of bedding and/or toys No Yes
Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: No Yes
Stays off people furniture: No Yes
Commands:
Comes when called: Yes
Sits on command: Yes
Down / Off: Yes
Shake / Paw: Working on this
Kennels on command: Yes
Cinnamon’s Medical
DA2PP: July 28, 2019 (SAH)
Bordatella: July 28, 2019 (SAH)
Wormed: July 28, 2019 Pyrantel Pamoate (SAH)
Rabies: July 31, 2018 (by)
Spay/Neuter: July 31, 2018 (by)
Heartworm Test: July 31, 2018, Neg (by)
Flea/Tick preventative:
. July 28, product?, 0.7 ml
. Sept 2, product?, 0.7 ml
Heartworm preventative:
. July 31, Nuheart, dose?
. Sept 2, ValuHeart, Lg Dog
Progress Updates
In chronological order, newest at the bottom. Some pictures are linked to a more detailed Doggy Tale about that update, click those to open the related story.
Aug 15, 2019
Cinnamon’s former foster brought her to me late in the day and I needed to leave immediately afterward for an appointment. Cinnamon gave me no trouble in crossing the play yard to the kennels. I let her say “howdy” to her kennel mates, Sable and Blaze. The plan was to have her bunk in with Sable. I was told she was 40 pounds, she’s 62 and much larger than Sable. Cinnamon did NOT like Sable. Wasn’t crazy about Blaze either. But then she was newly arrived and these two were not being as friendly as they could.
I had to hastily make other arrangements for her containment while we were away. Former foster #1 said Cinnamon would destroy a crate if left alone in the house. So that was not an option. Former foster #2 said Cinnamon had ripped holes through two chain-link kennels to get out and kill her chickens. So even if Sable or Blaze seemed like a good roomie situation, the chain link may not hold her. So I put her in our max-security cell which is armor plated on the lower two feet. When we got back home that night, Cinnamon was still where I put her, so that is working. But that kennel had been promised to a shelter dog at risk of being put down. This was an emergency situation that may cost another dog its life.
Aug 16
Cinnamon met the house dogs this morning and I introduced her (face-to-face) to Blaze this afternoon. Those intros went well. She no longer has harsh words for Sable either. She loves playing with Blaze, they had a grand time running in the yard together while I was cleaning their kennels, then hanging out in the shade when they got tired.
She also decided she likes Blaze’s room and asked if she could bunk in there with him.
After I secured Blaze, I took Cinnamon for a leash walk. She did well, so she gets her gold star for that skill. She even went back into her kennel all on her own for a rest when we were done.
Aug 17
Cinnamon played with Josephine and Callie today. At first Josie was hesitant because Cinnamon is twice her weight and three times her size, but Cinnamon was careful and these two played well together.
When Callie joined the game, she would charge in and bump Cinnamon with her chest. Cinni would go stiff and fall over like one of those fainting goats, “I’m dead, you killed me”. It was hilarious.
Aug 19
While cleaning the kennels I let Sable out first to run around solo. When I got her kennel scrubbed out, and the dog house and dog bed scrubbed, and the disinfectant down on the floor, I let Blaze out to play with Sable so I could work on his room while the disinfectant worked in Sable’s. When Sable’s room was done, I put her back in and let out Cinnamon to play with Blaze, planning to put Blaze away when his room was ready and give Cinnamon some solo time. But when I called Blaze, he and Cinnamon came galloping over and ran into Blaze’s room. I figured they both wanted a drink of water and Cinni would come back out afterward. But no, she settled in on Blaze’s bed and said, “I’m staying here with my friend.” Blaze seemed okay with that, so I closed and secured the door. Once I got the disinfectant down on Cinnamon’s floor I headed out to do a yard pick-up while it did it’s thing. While I was out I heard Cinnamon yipping. Blaze gave out one loud, annoyed “WOOF!”, Cinnamon yipped some more, then it got quiet.
When I got back to the kennels, I found Blaze standing at his door giving me a look: “Let me out, Doug, she’s being greedy.”
Cinnamon had grabbed Blazes bed AND his chew toy and wasn’t going to share.
But, there were no hostilities, just hurt feelings. Poor Blaze! He’s just trying to be hospitable and this eye-batting cutie-gal is taking advantage of him!
During the afternoon play session I moved Cinnamon’s bed and toy into Blaze’s room, but on the opposite side of the room. Now they each have a bed and a toy. The beds should work out, but it may well be that both toys will end up under Cinni’s paws.
Blaze says, “MY bed. MY toy. You just stay on your side of the room, girlie.”
This may not work out and I’ll be moving Cinnamon back into her own room, so we’re NOT hanging out the vacancy sign just yet.
Aug 27
Cinnamon has her room to herself again. Martin: the guest who was staying in Blaze’s (mostly unused) kennel is gone on to his forever home now and Blaze has a “room” when he needs it.
I let Cinnamon play with Sable last week. That was a mistake. Sable plays hard. Cinnamon picked up on that and carried that style of play into her play with Blaze after I put Sable up. Blaze didn’t like that. He plays with Sable that way, but Sable is considerably smaller than Cinnamon. Blaze got defensive and they got into a tiff. Everyone went to solo-play for the rest of the week. They are doing better now.
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As of January 2017 we have fostered 38 dogs in 4½ years. That’s not an astounding number: I know many people who foster several times our annual average. Sometimes they have 6 or 8 dogs at a time, we generally have two or three (plus our two). But we take in the hard cases. We get the heartworm positive dogs that need to be nursed through a long treatment and recovery period. We take in those with “behavioral issues” and turn unmanageable hooligans into adoptable companions. It is trying work. Not all have been major challenges (most are simply large dogs who were never trained to behave) but there have been a few.
Luna has been something of an enigma since her arrival. On the one hand, she has been single-minded in her attempts to escape. She came here because NAC had no place they could humanely confine her. Once she got here she set about dismantling her kennel. I finally had to armor plate the inside of her “room” to prevent her getting purchase on the safety mesh or chain-link with her claws and shredding the former and distorting the latter. Before I got that done, she actually bent the panel clamps and pulled the door panel into her kennel!
Safety mesh on lower half prevents “chewing” chain link.
Mesh shredded, she yanked a panel loose!
Her neighbors, Da Boyz, are SHOCKED by the carnage!
I armor plated the inside to prevent further destruction.
While all this was going on, i was taking her out for leash walks four times a day. The other dogs are released to run and play in our fenced yard, but Luna’s determination to escape causes me to worry that she will just go over a wall as soon as I’m not watching. A theory that was verified the first time I put her on a tether so I could clean her kennel. She wriggled out of her harness and I caught her trying to hop over the wall by our back porch. Luna is a big girl and Animal Control learned that she could climb out of their 6′ high kennels. I have a steel net over the top of mine to discourage that.
This precious boy has obviously been someones treasured companion. He shows no aggression, is well behaved, knows some commands, and is housebroken. All he needs is a family to love him again.
Last updated: July 4, 2019
Base Info:
Arrival date: June 15, 2019
Breed: Boston Terr/AmBull mix
Sex: Male
Age: Young Adult, Mature, Senior
Weight: 31 Pounds
Spay/Neutered: Yes
General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
Temperament: Affectionate, well behaved, gentle
Gets Along with Dogs: Yes (cats too)
Gets Along with People: Yes (even toddlers)
Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes
Departure date: July 4, 2019
History
Picked up as a stray by The City of Newport Animal Control and not claimed, but this good boy has obviously been someone’s house dog.
Progress Notes:
Detailed update notes on our foster dogs are posted regularly. For a listing of updates that include Lemaster [click here]. A summation is included below.
Puncture wounds this time, no flaps of skin hanging. But his teeth hit my jaw bone, and that HURTS.
When Elishia (Shelter Manager) and crew arrived with a large trap to transport him in, he went into the box warily but once the door was closed and he was trapped he was baring his teeth and snarling at everyone.
Cinnamon met the house dogs this morning and I introduced her (face-to-face) to Blaze this afternoon. Those intros went well. She no longer has harsh words for Sable either. She loves playing with Blaze, they had a grand time running in the yard together while I was cleaning their kennels, then hanging out in the shade when they got tired.
