A kill shelter called Boston Terrier Rescue of East Tennessee saying they had a couple of Bostons for them. Diana went to see them. They were NOT Boston Terriers, but she could not leave them there to die, so she pulled them. A local rescue took Charlie Bear’s brother, but not Charlie. Diana reached out to PMFC to see if we could help. And here he is!
Charlie Bear’s Progress Summary:
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
Relational Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Yes
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Can but probably won’t.
Preferred style of play: Undetermined
Is affectionate: Yes, once he gets to know you.
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Yes
. Cats: Yes. Will chase if they run.
Contact information for your veterinarian is required and we will do a reference check. We do not adopt to people who neglect their dogs.
An adoption Contract must be signed by PMFC and Adopter. This is a legal document and an actual signature is required. If the form must be mailed back and forth, allow time for that to happen. Electronic PDF is allowed if you can print/scan.
Adopter arranges transport. We have worked with PETS LLC and HEARTS LLC (fees are paid to the transport service).
Adoption fee is $200.00 This generally does NOT cover what we have invested in medical care and room & board. But it helps.
Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food
1 cup AM, 1 cup PM.
Gallery
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.
FEATURED VIDEO
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Progress Updates
Progress notes are listed below, in chronological order, newest at the bottom.
Oct. 2nd
Charlie Bear arrived today. He was okay with Diana, got really skittish with me after she left. Settled down some as the afternoon wore on and he got used to me being around. Charlie will be going into a foster home – probably tomorrow – because the kennel he’s in right now has been promised to another dog due to arrive soon: probably tomorrow!
Oct. 10
Charlie Bear wore out his welcome at his foster home quickly. There were various issues but it became apparent that this was not the place for him to relax and learn to be calm. I have no room for him here. So Charlie has been returned to Diana. She said it’s okay … she was missing him anyway.
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Victor Classic – Professional Dry Dog Food
1¼ cups AM, 3/4 cups PM.
PMFC Peanut butter cookies
Retriever Beef Basted Sticks
Jones Beef Hooves
Grillerz Pork Femur
Gallery
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.
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Progress Updates
Progress notes are listed below, in chronological order, newest at the bottom.
Sept 14
Valley has arrived. She seems to be a friendly playful girl in great need of a bath. She smells, many shelter dogs do. I’ll take care of that. She resists walking on a leash and needed to be carried from NAC to my ruck and from the truck to her kennel here at PMFC. She’s been fitted with a collar, and fed, and I’ll start working with her this afternoon. First impression: the term “Velcro” comes to mind!
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A typical black lab: vigorously friendly, goofy, loves everyone.
Last Updated: Aug. 29, 2020
Base Info:
Arrival date: July 20, 2020
Breed: Black Labrador
Sex: Male
Age: Youth, Adult, Mature, Senior
Birthdate:
Weight: 46.6 Pounds
Neutered: Yes
General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
Temperament: Outgoing, goofy, lovable, very sweet!
SAFER Test performed: Yes PASSED
Departure date: August 29th, 2020
History
Taken in by Animal Control when the young man who owned him went to jail on charges not related to the dogs. Hunter was quite skinny, but did not appear to have been abused.
Hunters Progress Summary:
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
Relational Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Yes
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes but lets others take his food.
Preferred style of play: Likes to frolic in the yard
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Needs supervision around small children. Can be active.
. Cats: Unknown
Jumps up on people: Doing much better.
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: No
Commands:
Comes when called: Yes
Sits on command: Yes
Down / Off: Yes
Paw: Yes
Kennels on command: Yes
Hunter’s Medical
DA2PPv: July 17, 2020 (NAC)
. Booster: Aug 7, 2020 PMFC
Bordatella: July 17, 2020 (NAC)
Wormed: Dates | Product | Dose | By
. July 17, 2020 Pyrantell Pamoate 4.5 cc NAC
. Aug 6-8, 2020 Fendbendazole 10 ml PMFC
. Aug 22-24, 2020 Fendbendazole 10 ml PMFC
Flea/Tick preventative:
. Aug 5 Fipronil topical 44-85 lbs
.
Heartworm preventative:
. Aug 6, Ivermectin, .5 ml
.
NOTES:
.
.
Diet
Victor Classic – Professional Dry Dog Food
1½ cups AM, 1¼ cups PM mixed with cheese shred PMFC Peanut butter cookies
Retriever Beef Basted Sticks
Jones Beef Hooves
Grillerz Pork Femur
Gallery
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.
Sunning on his Kuranda bed
I’m done with potty run – cookie please!
Rain is coming – I’ll stay in here, thank you.
Progress Updates
Progress notes are listed below, in chronological order, newest at the bottom.
July 24
Hunter has been here for four days now. In that time we’ve found him to be friendly, outgoing, well behaved on a leash, fond of playing in a light rain, but not a downpour (I can’t blame him for that). He does not eat much. I think he’s accustomed to his brother, Bailey, snatching up most of the food. Because of that tendency I move Hunter to another kennel at feeding time. The rest of the time they coexist peacefully in one kennel. In fact, they prefer it that way.
August 5
I’ve been mixing shredded cheese into Hunter’s kibble to encourage him to eat. He’s thin and needs to eat. I separate him from Bailey at meal time because Bailey will push Hunter out of his dish and eat both servings. The cheese has encouraged Hunter, he is eager to get his dish at feeding time and he has been finishing his full portion. This morning I left out the cheese to see if he’d eat without the additive. Hunter stuck his nose in the bowl and sniffed, lifted his head and glared at me, “What are you pulling here? Where’s my CHEESE?” then he went and lay down on his bed in protest. That didn’t last long before he decided he was hungry and would eat what he had even if it is sub-standard. I guess he would eat plain kibble, but since he still needs the calories I’ll continue to add the cheese. It makes him happy.
Hunter also went to Claws and Paws for a Cause mobile vet today for his Rabies vaccination, heart worm test and microchipping. He did really well. He’s a good boy.
Aug 12
Hunter’s favorite “game” to play during his free-play sessions, especially in the cool of the morning, is RUNNING! Sometimes he will take off and run a half-dozen laps around out big play yard at full gallop. You’d think this Labrador was part Greyhound!
Aug 20
Hunter has taken to a new form of greeting me when it is not meal time. At meal times he is eager to get his bowl. At play times he often comes to the gate, stands up and gently puts his paws on my chest then lays his head on my shoulder, “Hello friend. I love you.” He is SUCH a sweet boy!
Aug 29 — ADOPTED
We are pleased to announce that Hunter has found a forever home. Two nice people came to visit him today. They have been talking about him with Dennis for some time. Hunter was a little nervous at first, but once he go to know them he liked them so much he decided to go home with them.
He was excited by the prospect of going for a ride, but he settled right in and promised to be a really good boy for them.
Lets ROLL!
He also promised to write us and send a photo now and then so we’d know he was alright. Happy Tails, Hunter!
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This playful, spirited boy is just a pup and has not had much if any training, but we’ll get him settled down and teach him to be a Good Boy.
Last Updated: June 13, 2020
Base Info:
Arrival date: Apr. 30, 2020
Breed: Husky / Black Lab mix
Sex: Male
Age: Youth, Adult, Mature, Senior Birthdate: November 2019
Weight: 24.3 Pounds
Neutered: May 14, 2020
General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
Temperament: Playful, vigorous, affectionate
PetFinder Listing
Available for adoption? ADOPTED
Departure date: June 12, 2020
History
Spirit was one of four dogs surrendered by a family claiming they were moving and they could not afford to support the dogs. Spirit spent only a few hours at the Friends Animal Shelter of Cocke County before we happened by and agreed to take him. The shelter manager knew he, being a Husky, would degrade quickly in close confinement. She also wants him adopted to someone experienced in handling Huskies, which she is not likely to find locally. We are able to give him more comfortable accommodations and cast a wider net for a proper permanent home, so we took him with us.
Spirit’s Progress Summary:
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
Relational Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Some dogs.
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: No
Preferred style of play: RUNNING and nipping
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Yes (Too rowdy for toddlers)
. Cats: Unknown but probably not (Husky)
Heartworm preventative:
. 05/15/2020, Ivermectin, .25 ml
.
Microchipped? YES (PetKey) Not yet registered.
NOTES:
. Thin and bony under his fur, working on that
. Carprophen (75 mg) given for 5 days after neuter.
Diet
4health Puppy kibble, 1½ cups AM, 1½ cups PM. Retriever Beef Stick mid-day, PMFC Peanut Butter Cookies for compliance.
Gallery
In chronological order, newest at the bottom.
Progress Updates
Progress notes are listed below, in chronological order, newest at the bottom.
May 3
Spirit has been with us a few days now and we’ve had a chance to evaluate his behavior.
He is a rowdy boy and tends to get wild when we interact with him. But, when we catch a moment when he settles to pet him, he calms down immediately and will happily stand, leaning against our legs, enjoying his petting. When he’s had enough petting he wanders off into the yard to play. If we stop too soon he gets rowdy again.
Being a Husky he is vocal, but he is quiet at night. He is playful, but a bit assertive with the other dogs. I’m working on helping him learn his place in the pack. Getting him neutered will help.
He does guard-food. As skinny as he is that’s not surprising. I would not feed him with other dogs yet.
He appears to be in good health. He’s been wormed and saw no worms being ejected. We’ll get his rabies, microchip, and a health screening as soon as we can schedule the neuter.
May 5
Being just a puppy, Spirit has an energetic, playful side. But he also has a sweet, attentive side. But, it would seem, no middle ground at all!
May 11
In the past I have allowed Spirit to play in the yard with some of the other dogs. He did fine with Buddy: he intimidates lil Josephine, but she hunkers down and waits for him to lose interest. Blondie will play with him sometimes and when he gets too rowdy she tells him off. Generally he listens and runs off to play in the yard. I don’t trust him around Callie. Callie has been getting … reactive, to pushy dogs. Best to keep them separate for now.
Spirit has started being hateful toward other dogs when they are in the yard and he is kenneled, especially Callie and Buddy. I assumed it was because they were free and he confined. The other day I let Spirit out of his kennel with Buddy in the yard. Spirit was on a long lead. He took off toward Buddy and I clamped down on that lead. I burned my hand, but stopped him a couple feet short of Buddy while Spirit snapped and snarled at Buddy. Buddy just stood there looking at him like, “What’s YOUR problem?” I reeled Spirit in and put him back in his kennel.
Blondie is big enough to intimidate him when he gets too rowdy, I’m keeping him away from the Beagles for now. He’s scheduled to be neutered later this week, maybe that will take the spit and vinegar out of him.
May 14
Spirit was neutered today. He passed his Heartworm test, so I can put him on a preventative. He was clear of intestinal parasites. And he did well in his surgery. He rebounded quickly and has been quite active and HUNGRY since he got home. I am having trouble keeping a cone on him, being a Husky he is quite clever in finding ways to get it off (and chew it up). This will likely be this cone’s last tour of duty!
May 19
Spirit has done exceptionally well in his surgery recovery and in his efforts to destroy the cone he wears to keep him from licking at his incision.
May 22
Spirit finds the cone he’s wearing frustrating and entertaining at the same time. It impedes his free movement, limits his vision, and interferes with feeding and drinking. He learned quickly to hold his head up while running so the cone does not dig in and send him into a somersault. Eating and drinking are still a comically messy process because the cone tends to flip his dish over.
When bored, he does his best to eat the cone. He has gotten out of it a couple of times, but he did not go straight to licking his incision. That is still looking fine, and I will remove (and dispose of) his cone Sunday evening. That will reduce his frustration level and make him more compliant again.
May 30
Spirit had a meet-n-greet with Alicia and her dog, Savage. Savage is a full-blooded Husky and Alicia has done a great job of training him, he is a calm, gentle, patient fellow. Alicia wants a play mate for Savage, but as we brought them together Spirit insisted on trying to nip Savage in the face. I had Spirit on a lead so I was able to prevent that from happening, but he would not be dissuaded. We eventually labeled this attempt a failure and they left. I downgraded is rating for dog compatibility a notch. I think he was trying to play, but it was inappropriate play.
Housebreaking
We have had inquiries about adopting him. As to “Is he housebroken?”, I have to answer: probably.
He was living with a family and three other dogs. I do not know what their living arrangements were, but Spirit definitely knows what the door to the house is and wants in there. When he needs to potty he does yell for me and if I’m quick he will hold it until released into the yard.
He plays hard and is destructive of blankets and toys. Not in an aggressive way, just being playful. I would crate him when left alone in a home for an extended time, at least until he learns the routine and rules of your home.
Why Limited to a Husky-Experienced Home?
Huskies are a unique breed in the dog world. They are exceptionally smart, and as is typical of the smarter breeds, they tend to be … opinionated. If you let them, they will dominate your home. Heading that off is not difficult, it just takes consistency in making it clear that you are the pack leader. Most Huskies also shed like crazy — this has not been the case with Spirit, but as a rule, they do. Huskies tend to be vocal and like to converse with their owners, sometimes loudly. Huskies are strong, energetic dogs with tons of stamina (sled dogs, duh!). If any of this will grate on your nerves, you do not want a Husky.
Not long ago shelters worked through a glut of Huskies because people saw them on Game of Thrones and wanted one, only to find they were not prepared for Husky ownership and dumped them. I know, I worked in a shelter then and saw it first hand. It was heart breaking seeing these gorgeous, personality filled dogs being adopted because they were Huskies and then returned days later because they were … Huskies.
But, for those who will set and maintain boundaries; have the time, space, and energy to work with the dog; and own a good vacuum; Huskies are highly rewarding and entertaining companions.
On the Up Side
For a Husky, Spirit is not as vocal as most (usually), he hardly sheds at all, he likes to play in water, and he is quite a lover (all traits he gets from his Lab side). And he is a gorgeous dog. He’s really smart. Small for a Husky, he’s easier to leash walk. He will make a great companion … for someone who isn’t expecting him to be a lazy Labrador.
June 12, 2020
I love you, Mamma, take me home with you!
After quite a few inquiries and two false starts on adoption (both fell through after being approved), Spirit was adopted today. His new Mom has lots of Husky experience, a fenced yard, and her references checked out glowingly and quickly. She had all the information I needed and we don’t (can’t) do home inspections, so I saw no good reason to make her wait while we considered it. I did call the other member of the adoption committee and discussed it with her, so it was still done “by the book” it’s just a smaller book than what rescues do.
Spirit looked a little confused at first, “Where are we going, Mamma?” But he settled in and once they got to hi new home had had TOYS to play with and gas to lounge in, an ladies to dote on him. He’s a HAPPY BOY!
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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!
If you enjoy our pupdates, Doggy Tales, and educational articles consider subscribing for notices when new pieces are posted. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver these notices. That’s a promise!
This is a foster dog diary post about Luna. New information will be added to the end of this post so all info on this dog (well, most of it) 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: Aug 8, 2019
Luna was a stray picked up by Newport Animal Control and taken to their facility. She is a Great Dane / Black Lab mix. Not terribly large as, Danes go, but larger than the average dog and quite strong despite being scrawny from hunger. Luna could easily climb out of the regular kennels at N.A.C. The only kennel they have that could contain her is their “vicious dog cell” and that is in a part of the building that is not air conditioned. In the late-June mid-day heat, it becomes far too hot for anything to stay in there long. They needed another solution. So the manager, Lisa, reached out to me: would I foster her for them? We found a way to make that happen and I picked her up this morning.
Lennon (A.K.A. “Legs”) is a typical, young lab: playful and eager for attention. But for a lab, Lenny is unusually self-controlled and intelligent.
Last updated: June 15, 2019
Base Info:
Arrival date: January 21, 2019
Breed: Black Lab
Sex: Male
Age: Young, Adult, Mature, Senior
Weight: 53.5 pounds
Neutered: Yes
General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
Temperament: Typical lab: playful and goofy.
Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
Gets Along with People: Yes
Housebroken: Yes
Crate Trained: Yes
Departure date: June 15
History
Lennon was picked up as a stray. He was an emaciated 36 pounds. Newport Animal Control put some weight back on him and he’s looking good and looking for a home.
Progress Notes:
Detailed update notes on our foster dogs are posted regularly. For a listing of updates that include Lennon [click here]. A summation and some photos are included below.
Dog to Dog Behavior
Plays well with other dogs: Yes
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes
Dog to People Behavior
Is affectionate: Yes
Jumps up on people: No
Mouths: No
Walks well on a leash: Getting better
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 Yes (when bored)
Refrains from kitchen counter cruising: Yes
Stays off people furniture: Yes
Commands:
Comes when called: Yes
Sits on command: Sometimes
Down / Off: Yes
Shake / Paw: No
Crates on command: Yes
Medical
DA2PP: 11/26/2018 (Newport Animal Control)
DA2PP Boooster: 12/15/2019 (N.A.C.)
Bordatella: 11/2612018 (N.A.C.)
Wormed: 12/15/2018, Pyrantel Pamoate: 4.7 cc (N.A.C.)
Flea/Tick preventative:
. Jan 25, NexGard, 50+ Lbs.
. Feb 25, NexGard 50+ Lbs.
. Apr 25, Effipro 45#+
. May 1, Fipronil 45#-88#
. June 1, Interceptor
Heartworm preventative:
. Jan 16, 2019, HeartGuard
. Feb 20, 2019 NuHeart
. Mar. 25, 2019 HeartGuard
. May 1, 2019 HeartGuard
. June 1 2019 Interceptor
Other Notes:
Had Demodectic Mange. NexGuard, Cephalexin, and medicated shampooing got rid of it. Skin scrape exam by Cedarwood on 2/25/19 confirms mange is gone.
Found Lennon had pretty bad femoral head erosion in right hip due to an injury, not degradation. Femur reconstruction by Dr. David Crouch DVM was negotiated. On March 20 Dr Crouch decided Lennon was healing well and is not a candidate for surgery. Just continue his supplement.
Gallery
In roughly chronological order, newest at the bottom. Click the thumbnails to enlarge. Some pictures are linked to a Doggy Tale or video about Lennon, click those to open the related story or video.
Lennon, when he was picked up
Lennon, way too skinny.
Lennon’s NAC Promo photo
Lennon’s first civilized truck ride. (video)
Is that a UPS truck coming?!
I’d better get lots of treats for this.
Lennon Boxing Blondie Bear (Video)
You go on, I’m comfy here.
Lennon is a sprinter!
Enjoys an evening by the fire with big bone
Quiet play time destroying ropey toy
Being chill while I work at my desk.
This batch is about done, Doug, better take them out!
Lenny & Josie in a friendly game of tug
After an afternoon of hard play with The Girls a fella needs a nap!
Ready for bed, turn the light off please.
Lenny and Josephine like to snuggle.
Lennon snagged his foot and broke a nail clean off – OWIE!
One HAPPY truck rider!
PLEASE turn off the light so I can sleep!
Chillin on the Coolaroo
Lenny and friends aboard The Bus to Wisconsin.
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Highland was at the top of Animal Control’s “At Risk” list because he has a gimpy leg. He needed help right away.
Last updated: Oct 31, 2018
Base Info:
Arrival date: Oct 5, 2018
Breed: Retriever, Black Lab mix
Sex: Male
Age: Young, Adult, Mature, Senior
Weight:45 pounds
Spay/Neutered: 10/27/2018
General Health: Excellent
Temperament: For a Lab, he’s unusually calm. He is affectionate and gets along with everyone.
Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
Gets Along with People: Yes
Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes and Yes.
Departure date: November 2, 2018
History
Highland and a cat were abandoned in an apartment by the apartment’s tenant when she moved out. The landlord found them when he came to clean-up sometime afterward. He called Newport Animal Control. No one knows for sure what happened to his leg, but I suspect he was kicked.
Known Issues & Progress
Behaviorally, he has no issues: he’s GREAT. We took him to Cedarwood Veterinary to have him examined and X-rayed to assess his right rear leg and see what, if anything, could be done to restore it. They said it had been broken some time ago, was not addressed and healed with the leg bone rotated laterally. It causes him no pain and he has learned to function with his disability. They recommend AGAINST surgery. He just needs exercise and love.
Commands he knows: Comes when called, “sit”, “shake”, “in your room”, “go inside”, “go outside”, “hush”.
He plays fetch well. Not fond of tug.
He is non-destructive of his bedding. Gets barky when separated from his people.
He has earned his full-fledged House Dog badge. We let him run in the house when we’re here. He sleeps on a dog bed in the bedroom with the rest of us at night. He gets up with me in the morning, goes outside to pee, then settles down in the den with me while I study. The only time I crate him is when I leave the house and he stays behind. And he gets fed in a crate. All but three of the dogs get fed in a crate just to keep them out of each others bowls. My three all-star house dogs have moved beyond that misbehavior. They eat around the dining table (on the floor, but around the table). I’ll try him on free-range dining before he leaves and update this note.
Medical
DA2PP: 10/05/2018.(N.A.C.)
Bordatella: 10/05/18 (N.A.C.)
Wormed: Oct 5, 6, 7 2018, Panacur: 10 ml (PMFC)
Rabies: Oct 28, 2018 by Claws & Paws
Spay/Neuter: Oct 28, 2018 by Claws & Paws
Flea/Tick preventative: Oct 5, Advantage
Heartworm preventative: Oct 30, 2018: Nu Heart
Heartworm Test: Oct 28, 2018. Test was NEGATIVE
Gallery
In roughly chronological order, newest at the bottom. Click the thumbnails to enlarge. Some pictures are linked to Doggy Tales and videos about Highland, click those to open the related story or video.
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Pascal Robin came to visit me from Jefferson City yesterday. When she opened up the back of her SUV I saw she had brought me a crate of Moonshine:
Moonshine
Moonshine and her relatives, Whiskey and Bacardi are residents at C.A.R.E. (Companion Animal Rescue and Education) and Moonshine is Heartworm positive. C.A.R.E. raised the funds to pay for her treatment and asked if I would (please) take Moonshine in and provide a quiet place for her to undergo treatment and recovery.
Heartworm is the reason we got into fostering and has always been something of a specialty with us. Since Lucky has become a full-time indoor dog we had a kennel open, so I was happy to welcome this sweet Lab into our company.
Moonshine will be available through C.A.R.E. once she is cured of her heartworm — which will be the end of August (let’s make that) mid-November: a complication has arisen (see below). You may contact C.A.R.E. through their web site: Companion Animal Rescue and Education or their Facebook Page or by phone (865) 471-5696, 12:00 noon until 5:00 pm Mon – Sat.
Last updated: Nov 23, 2018
Moonshine’s Base Info:
Arrival date: June 20th, 2018
Breed: Black Lab Mix
Sex: Female
Age: 1-2 years
Weight: Approx 40 pounds
Spay/Neutered: NO!
General Health: Excellent
Temperament: Gentle, sweet, reserved. Almost timid.
Gets Along with Dogs: Yes. No sign of toy or food aggression. She likes to play, gets a little rowdy if you let her.
Gets Along with People: Yes. She loves to be petted, especially a belly rub. Likes to be near her human and will follow me from room to room as I’m doing things.
Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes on both.
Departure Date: Nov. 23, 2018
Known Issues & Progress
The only issue I know of at her arrival is her heartworm condition, and treatment for that is already underway.
July 18: As we were preparing for Moonshine to have her injections, Moonshine gave birth to seven PUPPIES! C.A.R.E. placed Moonie and her pups with a puppy-savvy foster home and we’re planning to have Moonshine back once her pups are weaned – to resume her treatment.
August 17th: Moonshine returns. We need to reset her heartworm treatment schedule and we’re trying to do that locally rather than trucking her to Jefferson County each time she needs to see the vet.
Accepted by Cedarwood Veterinary Hospital
started on Doxycycline (200 mg, 2x daily) Aug 20
Appt for 1st treatment Sept 20th
Final HW treatments were done Oct. 18th and 19th. She did exceptionally well. She is now on activity restriction for 30 days.
She’ll be ready to return to C.A.R.E. on November 19th.
All my dogs have accepted her back and they get along famously. She gets the run of the house except for when I leave.
Nov. 2nd – Where we’re at: Moonie eats her meals in a crate because she will raid the other dog’s dishes (and they’ll let her). She also sleeps in a crate at night because she likes to pace, and having her go tickety-tack,tickety-tack in the hallway is disturbing to all who want to sleep. Put her in her crate and she goes right to sleep and sleeps through the night. In the morning she will nose-whistle at me to let me know she needs to go outside. Once that is done I leave her free to roam the house unless she and another dog (usually Josephine) decide to get rowdy before my wife gets up. I’m generally up a couple of hours before she is, and it’s my job to see that things remain calm and quiet until 5:30 when she gets up. UPDATE: The last couple of nights she was here we let her sleep on a dog bed in the bedroom (no crate). She did very well at staying in bed and being good.
Any time I crate her (I use “in your room”) she gets a small treat. She expects that now. She also gets a treat when she comes back in from her first potty run of the morning. UPDATE: Recently she has started “sassing” me about going into her crate. She stands by the crate, looks at me defiantly and yaps, “No, I don’t want to go in there!” until I give her “the look”, then she ducks into the crate and gets her treat. She’s so funny!
She’s been eating 4health Salmon & Potato kibble from Tractor Supply. I give her 1¼ cups of kibble per feeding and feed her twice a day (breakfast and dinner).
Moonshine is gentle on her bedding, so I make sure she has plenty of “cush” to snuggle into. She is generally quiet, not a barker. She tells me when she needs to go out by either scratching on the door or coming and talking to me. She’ll do the same to get back inside.
She is quite affectionate and loves to be loved on. But she’s not pesky about it. I have not been able to break her of “peeking” over the counters when she smells food. She won’t do it if I’m looking, but if I turn my back or leave the room, things tend to go missing. I’ve gotten spoiled, I can leave my dinner on a tray table in the living room, leave the room, and my dogs will not bother it. They’ll stare at it, they may sniff, but not take anything. Moonbug is not that trustworthy!
Gallery
In roughly chronological order, newest at the bottom. Click the thumbnails to enlarge. Some pictures are linked to Doggy Tales about Moonshine, click those to open the related story.
Moonshine is a beautiful, graceful girl.
Lucky (left) takes her new friend on a tour of the yard.
She’s a snuggle bug with plush fur!
It’s HOT! Moonshine comes inside. (vid)
Came home to find PUPPIES! Four so far.
Happy momma of SEVEN babies.
At CARE, awaiting her Puppy Foster
Settled in at puppy foster’s home.
Away on puppy hiatus
for one month
Moonshine RETURNS!
Frantically searching for her babies!
Moonie tunneled out to search my truck for pups
Starting to accept things, enjoys hanging with me.
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Lady’s big smile and slick dance moves caught our eye when she was at Animal Control.
Last updated: Oct 11, 2018
Base Info:
Arrival date: Sept 26, 2018
Breed: Black Lab / Staffordshire
Sex: Female
Age: Young, Adult, Mature, Senior
Weight: @ 50 Pounds
Spay/Neutered: Yes
General Health: Excellent
Temperament: Playful, friendly
Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
Gets Along with People: Yes
Housebroken/Crate Trained: No
Departure date: October 12, 2018
History
Picked up as a stray by Newport Animal Control. Became a long-term inmate and was on the “at risk” list, so Steele Away Home pulled her and placed her with us for foster care.
Known Issues & Progress
Quite clingy. Acts out when I leave her. She needs confidence.
10/11 Still gets vocal when I leave the yard or am working with another dog, but no longer destructive. She also has calmed down and enjoys getting petted.
Lady gets along fine with her neighbor, Ugg, and has been in the yard with Blondie Bear. Lady wants to play, Blondie isn’t sure of her yet. No hostilities on either side.
10/11 They have had several play sessions. These tend to be short because Lady gets into “trash-talking” and I shut that down. Lady gets along fine with Blondie. They occasionally play together, but that’s a whole other game: much more tame.
Lady was quite destructive when she decided she didn’t want to be where she was! But that has gotten better now that she’s settling into a schedule and knows I will be around in a while (several times a day) to let her out to play.
She knows, “come”, “sit”, “down/off” and “in your room”
Medical
DA2PP: 09/01/2018 (by N.A.C.)
Bordatella: 09/01/2018 (by N.A.C.)
Wormed: Oct 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Fendbendazole: 10 ml, (by P.M.F.C.)
Rabies: Oct 5, 2018 (Paws & Claws)
Spay/Neuter: Oct 5 (Paws & Claws)
Flea/Tick preventative: Oct 5, Advantage
Heartworm preventative: Oct 6, Nu Heart
Heartworm Test/Treatment: Oct 5 – Negative (Paws & Claws)
Gallery
In roughly chronological order, newest at the bottom. Click the thumbnails to enlarge. Some pictures are linked to Doggy Tales and videos about Lady, click those to open the related story or video.
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Arrival date: Oct 2, 2020
