A.K.A. Big Mick, Mickaroni, The Mickster, Mickey Moose, Mickaroon, and Whatagoodboy!
Last updated Feb 7, 2024
History
Mickey was on the loose and wandered into a campground. He found a child by a camper trailer and they played together. Mom of child let their pet Great Dane out of the camper and it attacked Mickey. Mickey defended himself. Injuries occurred. Animal Control was called. The family demanded that Mickey be destroyed because he’s a “vicious pit bull”.
A veterinarian examined and evaluated Mickey and found no aggression at all. P.M.F.C. took him in and kept him quiet until The Family left the area.
Base Info
Arrival date: March 20th, 2023
Breed: Staffordhire Terrier/Black Labrador
Sex: Neutered Male
Age: Adult
Birthdate: March 2018
Weight: 61 pounds on Mar. 20 ………… 57 lbs May 1, 2023 ………… 64 lbs Aug 1, 2023 ………… 62 lbs December 2023
Preferred style of play: Likes gentle wrestling. Will do some running.
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with: . Men: Yes . Women: Yes . Children: Yes . Cats: Probably not, gets excited about vagrant cat in our area.
Jumps up on people: Occasionally
Mouths: Yes – its more an enthusiastic licking. Working on that.
Walks well on a leash: Yes
Commands
Comes when called: Yes
Sits on command: Yes
Down / Off: Yes
Shake / Paw: Working on it … almost there.
Kennels on command: Yes
Adoption Information:
Start by submitting a completed Adoption Application (Now an on-line, mobile friendly form).
Contact information for your veterinarian is required and we will do a reference check.
If local (within @50 miles), schedule a meet-n-greet after your application has been processed. If you have another dog, bring it. A home inspection and interview will be done after a successful meet-n-greet.
If not local, adopter needs to contact a reputable rescue in THEIR area and request that rescue pull the dog from us after performing a home inspection and investigation of their own. You will then adopt the dog from them.
Local adoption fee is $200.00 This includes neuter surgery, vaccination against Parvovirus, Distemper, Adednovirus, Rabies, and Bordatella and a thorough de-worming. This dog has been microchipped and will be registered in the adopters name. Any health issues we found were addressed and are described below.
Observations:
Big Mick has clearly enjoyed life as a house dog before. He is tidy in his habits and enjoys being able to come inside when he wants to.
One notable thing: when I’m dishing up their meals, most cottage dogs are singing their songs of encouragement. Mickey on the other hand settles on his bed and quietly chews a bone as an appetizer. He is such a good boy.
Recently Mickey has needed to share his apartment with another dog. Twice, different dogs. Both spayed females, but I don’t think it would matter. He did SO well at sharing, they even ate meals together without any antagonism. Mickey is so easygoing!
More will be added as care and training progress. To receive notices of updates subscribe below. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver post notices. That’s a promise!
Stella is a sweet Georgia Peach who is here for heartworm treatment and a penchant for chasing cats.
Last Updated: January 28, 2023
History
Stella was adopted from a large rescue in Atlanta Georgia, in poor physical condition and heartworm positive. Stella’s Mom began the heartworm treatment process and helped her gain weight and get into shape. Stella proved to be cat aggressive, and there were 5 cats in the family. Stella’s Mom tried hard to get Stella over her fascination with chasing cats, but Stella wasn’t responding. Mom sequestered Stella in part of the house, but that’s no way for a dog to live. She began searching for a rescue that would take Stella and would be a good place for her to complete her heartworm treatment. She found Piney Mountain Foster Care and reached out to us.
Base Info
Arrival date: August 27, 2022
Breed: Staffordshire Terrier
Sex: Female
Age: Adult
Birthdate: @ July 13, 2020
Weight: @53 pounds on Aug 27 ……….. 54.0 pounds Oct 1 ………… 49.0 pounds Nov 1 ………… 49.4 pounds Dec. 1 ………… 54.4 pounds Jan. 1
Spayed/Neutered: Yes
General Health: Excellent
Temperament: Exceptionally sweet and loving.
SAFER Testperformed: Yes – Failed: reactive to all female dogs. Okay with males. ** see 8/31 notes below.
Departure date: Undetermined
Relational Behavior
NOTE: Stella has only just arrived. Info below will be updated as we get to know this sweet girl.
Relates well to other dogs: Sort of (see 8/31 notes below).
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Undetermined
Preferred style of play: Likes to run, likes rough-n-tumble play with other dogs.
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with: . Men: Yes . Women: Yes . Children: Untested but probably . Cats: NO, high prey drive.
You are here WAY too early!Good morning. Belly rub please.
Observations
August 31, 2022
Stella arrived around 10:30 Friday night. Her first night was confusing and anxious. S.A.F.E.R. testing is supposed to be done as soon after admit as possible so the dog does not become acclimated to the handler. I tested Stella Saturday, mid morning. She did quite well except for interactions with other dogs. She was hostile toward all the females, including my mentor dog, Blondie Bear, who is 13 years old and as sweet and gentle as can be. Stella acted playfully toward the male dogs. Even Blade, who came out after Stella was in her outside run and tried to intimidate her by snorting and lunging at her. Stella found that entertaining and her tail was wagging madly the whole time, “Do that again, that’s funny!” Blade was miffed at his failure to intimidate.
By Saturday afternoon, Stella had changed her mind about the girls and was using her play time to go around and invite each of them to play. None accepted, they were still remembering her behavior that morning.
By Monday the other girls are fascinated by Stella’s squeaky bunny toy, and Stella was delighted to show them how it worked. All were getting along fine. I’d been keeping Blondie Bear inside during play times (much to her consternation) so there was no risk Stella would hurt her while my attention was elsewhere.
Wednesday morning I brought Blondie out with me for cleaning and play time. I put Stella on a long lead and let her approach Blondie Bear.
Stella tried to get rowdy.Blondie tells her off with several loud, sharp barksStella backs off and they get along fine.
So that ended well, and I expect she will learn to relate to the others as well.
January 6th, 2023
Stella is within days of completing her recovery period. Treatment went exceptionally well. Recovery has gone well except she has become frustrated with being on activity restriction (no zoomies in the yard) and has recently been taking her frustrations out on bedding and plush toys. Prior to this she has been extremely gentle on toys. Okay, she’d flap them hard sometimes, but never ripped them open like some dogs do. The bed she came in with remained in pristine condition, until she got frustrated. Minor damage, I took it out of her room and will give it back (after repairs) when she calms down after restriction is over.
More will be added here as major steps in care and training progress. To receive notices of updates subscribe below. It’s painless and you can unsubscribe any time you want. Your e-mail address is used ONLY to deliver post notices. That’s a promise!
A happy, easy-going hound of a feller who just wants to be loved.
Last updated: June 7, 2021
History:
Arrested for vagrancy by Animal Control in Newport TN, we know nothing about where he came from or why he was homeless. But he was a model prisoner in Doggy Jail so we sprung him and he’s here to be gentrified so he can find a loving forever home.
Base info:
Arrival date: May 26, 2021
Breed: American Staffordshire Terrier
Sex: Male
Age: Adult
Birthdate: Est: Dec 26, 2019
Weight: 55 pounds on June 1
Neutered: Yes
General Health: Excellent
Temperament: A little rowdy but a happy, playful fellow.
Contact information for your veterinarian is required and we will do a reference check.
If local, a meet-n-greet is encouraged. If you have another dog, bring it.
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.
If not local, adopter arranges transport. We frequently work with HEARTS LLC (fees are paid to the transport service) but have other options available.
Adoption fee is $200.00 This includes spay/neuter surgery, vaccination against Parvovirus, Distemper, Adednovirus, Rabies, and Bordatella and a thorough de-worming. This dog has been microchipped and will be registered in the adopters name. Any health issues we found were addressed and are described below.
Progress Summary
Detailed notes and discussion are below the summary
Relational Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Yes
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes
Preferred style of play: Undetermined just wants to be petted
Is affectionate: Yes, quite so.
Is good with: . Men: Yes . Women: Yes . Children: Older kids, yes. Probably to bouncy for little kids right now. . Cats: Unknown
Jumps up on people: Doing much better now.
Mouths: Doing much better now. See June 7 notes below
Walks well on a leash: Yes but see May 28 notes below
Commands
Comes when called: Yes.
Sits on command: Yes. Picked this up from watching me with Blade.
Down / Off: Doing much better now.
Shake / Paw: Not yet
Kennels on command: Yes.
Diet
Victor Classic – Professional Dry Dog Food 1¼ cups plus 0 oz. home made stew AM and PM PMFC Peanut butter cookies given as rewards for compliance. Occasional snacks include: Retriever Beef Basted Sticks Jones Beef Hooves Grillerz Pork Femur
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Progress Notes
May 27
Camo transported home from NAC well: no barking or thrashing around, no vomiting or fear voiding. It seems he likes to ride. He has met all of our gang and has no issues with any of them. Blade has an issue with Camo, but that’s because Blade resents change. Blade is harassing Camo and will nip Camo’s toes if he puts them up on the fencing between them.
Camo’s first night here was not the best, but that’s not entirely his fault. We had a full moon ( and it was orange: they call it a Blood Moon) and critters were running in the woods and other dogs on the mountain were barking. So Camo barked too. Everly got in on it, but I think she was scolding him, saying, “Shut up I want to sleep.” But sleeping was something no one was doing, so I went out and lured everyone but Blade into their inside rooms and shut them in. I moved Blades water bowl outside and shut his door too just to maximize the muffle. We could still hear them, but it was much more subdued and we did get some sleep after that.
May 28
Last night went much, much better and I did not need to sequester anyone.
Camo went on a play-date yesterday. Another couple of ladies who also do dog rescue asked if Camo would come play with their Mr. Shorty, who needs socialization. We agreed. Mr. Shorty didn’t feel like playing: maybe because Camo was still wearing his Kennel Funk cologne. So Deann and Amber offered to bathe him. He smelled much better afterward. And they fell in love with him.
Other Notes: It is my practice to put all new arrivals on a 12 foot lead until they learn the “come” or recall command. I can use it as a long leash, or let them drag it around for free play and recall training. But if they decide to play “can’t catch me” I have a better chance of thwarting their game. When the dog will come when called I dispense with the lead. In Camo’s case it was a hindrance right away because instead of wandering off he would do figure 8s around my feet, quickly hobbling me. I have a hard time getting him to wander off a few steps so I can get some photos. His favorite place to sit is between my feet. So we’re not using the lead.
But when we went out to his play-date yesterday, he walked on his leash quite well and was a perfect gentleman … err … dog, through the whole thing.
June 2
Camo was neutered, vaccinated against rabies, and heart worm tested yesterday. His HW test came back negative, so he’s all set. We just need to keep him from licking the incision. Dr. Greenen’s notes say, ” Heart: no murmur, even rhythm, Ears: minimal wax, canals healthy, Great body condition.” I also gave him his second Parvo/Distemper vax when he got home while he was still subdued.
I let him ride inside the truck cab with me on the way home from Cedarwood Veterinary. He did very well.
June 7th
Camo has done very well with his training. He is super-eager to please so he trains easily, I just need to make it clear to him what I expect and he complies.
At first I had a lot of trouble with him jumping up on me and biting my hands. He was seeking affection, but going about it in the wrong way: probably a left-over behavior from poor training as a puppy. With some dogs it’s really hard to break them of this once they are adults. Not Camo. I would just get him into “down/off” and “sit” (which he learned on his own from watching me work with Blade – that’s how smart he is) I’d love up on him.
I remembered a trick the following day: when he started jumping and nipping, my hands went into my pockets or behind my back so he could not see them and he’d get no attention from me. When he got especially jumpy he’d go right back in his kennel and was done with that play session. He learned quickly not to waste his play times by being too insistent.
Camo left yesterday evening for a sleep-over at his friend, Mr. Shorty’s, house. Mr. Shorty’s family is thinking of adopting Camo and they want to see if he will fit in well with their current pack, so Camo is in a Foster-To-Adopt situation. They say it is going well so far.
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I met this sweetheart Monday March 15th. We’ve been watching her for a while but didn’t have an available apartment for her. Now we do. She is skittish, but willing to be friends – once she got used to me and as long as Lee was there. She gets along great with the NAC staff now. She’s four years old and until Newport Animal Control rescued her she had spent her entire life in a dog box. Not a kennel, a hunter’s dog box! She was terrified of everything and everyone at first, but she’s learning to like this vast new world.
Last updated: Sept 27, 2023
Base Info
Arrival date: March 22, 2021
Breed: Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Sex: Female
Age: Adult
Birthdate: Jan 2017
Weight: 70.4 Pounds on Jan 15, 2021. ……………. 57.8 healthy pounds Aug 1 2023
Spayed/Neutered: Yes
General Health: Good Temperament: Shy, skittish, easily frightened, but affectionate
SAFER Testperformed: No
Available for adoption? YES | Rescue? YES
Departure date: Undetermined
Adoption Information
Start by submitting a completed Adoption Application (Now an on-line, mobile friendly form).
Contact information for your veterinarian is required and we will do a reference check.
If local (within @50 miles), schedule a meet-n-greet after your application has been processed. If you have another dog, bring it. A home inspection and interview will be done after a successful meet-n-greet.
If not local, adopter needs to contact a reputable rescue in THEIR area and request that rescue pull the dog from us after performing a home inspection and background investigation. You will then adopt the dog from them according to their policies.
Local adoption fee is $200.00 This includes spay surgery, vaccination against Parvovirus, Distemper, Adednovirus, Rabies, and Bordatella and a thorough de-worming. This dog has been microchipped and will be registered in the adopters name. Any health issues we found were addressed and are described below.
Progress Summary
Detailed notes are below
Relational Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Yes. She avoids aggressive dogs, but will play rough with a dog who is not out to hurt her. She is also happy to just “hang out” with another dog.
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes, she and Blade often enjoy a meal near one another. She also shared a kennel with Pearl for a while and they both ate in the kennel together.
Preferred style of play: She likes to run and bump and mouth-wrestle. She does this cute ninja spin to bash her opponent with her butt.
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with: . Men: Yes . Women: Yes . Children: Undetermined. Too rowdy for small kids. . Cats: No. Cat aggressive.
Jumps up on people: No
Mouths: No
Walks well on a leash: Yes
Commands
Comes when called: Yes
Sits on command: Yes
Down / Off: Most of the time
Shake / Paw: Yes
Kennels on command: Yes
House Dog Training
Not yet applicable
Diet
Victor Classic – Professional dry and Purina Pro Classic Ground canned. PMFC Peanut butter cookies given as rewards for compliance. Occasional snacks include: * Milkbones * Bil-Jac liver treats * peanut butter stuffed bones
Getting to know DougLoaded and ready to rideNot sure she wants to get outI’ll just watch from here, thanksBut I don’t WANT my room cleanedShe loves having a blanket
Progress Updates
March 23, 2021
Luna’s first full day here has completed successfully. She stays in her bedroom on her Kuranda dog bed. Partly because her next door neighbor, Blade, likes to cow her by throwing himself against the tin privacy panel between them. NOISY! I’m going to replace that with plywood. That will take the fun out of it for him.
She has been out in the yard with me for walks several times. Trees creaking in the breeze and loud trucks rolling by on the hard road spook her at first, but she learns to ignore them. She walks well on the leash when using a Martingale collar so she can’t pull out of it – which is her first inclination when she gets spooked: pull out and run away. But some petting and soothing words calm her down quickly and we resume the walk.
March 26
Two big steps taken today. First, while we were on a walk I dropped the lead and let Luna wander freely. In the past she was circling around my legs all the time, today she was going off a little ways to check out interesting smells in the grass. She stayed within 6 feet of me as I canvased the yard doing a poop pick-up. Then I got the pruners and did some tree trimming. While I was focused on that, Luna wandered off. She was way over by the fence, looking out toward the road out front. But she glanced back to be sure I was still where she left me.
When finished I called her. At first I got the tilt-head of confusion. But I started slapping my knees and calling her in a high pitched voice and she came trotting back to me. We walked back to her kennel. I bribed Blade to not scare her, and she went right inside and on through to her bedroom.
Later, while cleaning kennels, I gave Luna a bath. I used a bucket of soapy water and a wash cloth, not a hose, then towel dried her. She did really well with this, even licked my face to let me know she wasn’t mad. She smells better too.
April 12
Luna has made a good deal of progress. She is no longer afraid to come out of her bedroom and is not afraid of other dogs coming up to her kennel to chat. She reacts well to friendly dogs. If one goes aggressive on her she will return the same.
She now responds enthusiastically to the “Come” command, (see video above) galloping all the way across the yard if need be. Just in the past two days Luna has mastered the “sit” command.
Her appetite is also much improved. She generally finishes her bowl of food within 20 minutes of receiving it instead of taking many hours.
April 21
I moved Luna from Apt 3 to Apt 1 yesterday. She took to the move well, no pouting or cursing like Blade did when I tried to move him once. Being in Apt 1 will help to socialize her because it brings her out of the back corner and into the Lime Light kennel. She needed the seclusion at first. But she’s doing much better now. If things get overwhelming, she can always retire to the privacy of her bedroom. And she truly likes having a patch of sunshine to lie in in the afternoons. She never got that in Apt 3.
May 5
Luna has done well in learning her commands and is becoming more social. Not really friendly with anyone but me yet, but at least she is curious – wanting to come out and visit when we have guests who are playing with other dogs.
July 17
We have had a number of guests come through here lately – human and canine – and Luna has reacted to them in mixed fashion. Some she accepts readily, others she is quite fearful of. I’m not sure what determines her reaction as there is no common denominator that I can see.
Oct 5
Luna is still insecure around strangers, but she warms up quickly to those who will persist and allow her to get to know them on her terms. Once she’s comfortable, she is quite affectionate and obedient. She is good at amusing herself with a chew toy, but has not chewed up her bed. She plays well with the other kennel dogs and Blondie Bear but HATES Callie Roo (one of our house dogs. I do not know why, but I suspect Callie stirs the pot with Luna. Callie is known to do that.
Dec 18
One of our Board members, Jennifer, has been coming in weekly to work with Luna. At first, she was skittish but once Jen sat down (to reduce the apparent threat she represented) Luna warmed up to her and quickly became affectionate. Luna’s last name (Luvpitt) is appropriate because she is quite affectionate once she gets comfortable with someone.
I’m going to try various calming agents to see if we can’t get her settled enough to the veterinarian for spaying.
January 2022
In January our resident manager was down with COVID and PMFC Board of Director members (and spouses and friends) came to pitch in and care for the dogs so Doug could heal. This experience proved quite beneficial to Luna as she was exposed to a variety of people repeatedly.
March 2022
A while back we moved Luna to Apartment 4, which is a split unit consisting of a mega-crate indoors and a good outside kennel (tile floor, not dirt). I did this because Luna is best suited to sleeping in a crate. And in fact she loved her new bedroom with a thick blanket folded up to snuggle into. But she did get jealous of Zoey being in her old home and would go over to harass her through the fencing, “Why are you in my house? Get out of MY house! That’s MY house!” then she’d wander off. She’d had her say and was done.
As things evolved, Luna got her old apartment back and seems happy to be “home” again.
April 7, 2022
Luna was spayed today. She did really well. As she recovered, and was still a little drunk on anesthesia, she noticed a tiny newborn goat in the kennel across the hall from her. She kept the staff in stitches watching her try to figure out what kind of puppy that was.
Luna also passed her heart worm test. All results on the 4Dx text were negative. vaccinations are up to date and she’s been microchipped as well.
August 15, 2023
Luna is a lovey, affectionate girl with those she has gotten to know. For most people earning her trust takes only a few minutes if done properly. She plays well with most other dogs but gets skittish with those who get too rough or demanding.
Luna should NOT be given plush toys. She ate one recently. I don’t mean she tears them up I mean she CONSUMED it. That caused a bowel blockage and we almost lost her. But with IV fluids and prayer she moved it through and was fine once again.
She does enjoy having a blanket to sleep on at night, I just pick it up in the morning so it does not become a toy and get torn up (and the scraps eaten).
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An emergency situation brings this big handsome boy to us so another rescue could work with him safely.
Last Updated: April 3, 2021
Base Info:
Arrival date: Jan 4, 2021
Breed: American Staffordshire
Sex: Male
Age: Youth, Adult, Mature, Senior
Birthdate: Dec 2018
Weight: @60 Pounds on Jan 4 .
Neutered: Yes
General Health: Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
Temperament: Rowdy but affectionate.
SAFER Testperformed: No
Departure date: April 2, 2021
History
He was chained to an outbuilding and starved before being taken from his owner by Greenville Animal Control. A rescue worker, Heather, pulled him via Cat’s In the Cradle New Life Sanctuary to prevent euthanasia and wanted to foster him. But she lives in an apartment and has cats. Timmy loves cats, especially with a dab of mustard. She has been working with him while boarded at Animals West veterinary office the last few days to help him learn how to walk on leash. But he needed a better environment, so he came to Piney Mountain Foster Care until he can be transported to Animal Rescue Network of New England.
Timmy’s Progress Summary:
Detailed notes on this foster dog’s progress are posted below the summary.
Relational Behavior
Relates well to other dogs: Seems to. He did well with a dog that he was tested with at the shelter. My whole gang greeted him upon arrival without incident. Timmy has been on a lead in the yard with Blondie Bear. He is “socially awkward” but not aggressive.
Can eat food/treats near other dogs: Yes, he and Blade often push their bowls against their separating barrier and eat inches apart without issue.
Preferred style of play: He doesn’t play. I don’t think he knows how.
Is affectionate: Yes. sometimes he just wants to melt into you because he’s so much enjoying being petted.
Is good with: . Men: Yes . Women: Yes . Children: Probably. . Cats: NO! Definitely not.
Jumps up on people: Not that I’ve seen
Mouths: Only occasionally, when he tries to play with you.
Walks well on a leash: Yes.
Commands:
Comes when called: Most times
Sits on command: Yes
Down / Off: Not yet
Shake / Paw: Not yet
Kennels on command: Yes
Diet
💕 Victor Classic – Professional Dry Dog Food . 2¼ cups + 3 oz. home made stew AM . 1½ cups + 3 oz. home made stew PM 💕 PMFC Peanut butter cookies 💕 Retriever Beef Basted Sticks 💕 Jones Beef Hooves 💕 Pig ears
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.
Timmy is a handsome boy!
Timmy enjoys his heat lamp.
Progress Updates
Progress notes are listed below, in chronological order, newest at the bottom so you can read through this dog’s history in order.
Jan 5
Timmy arrived yesterday evening and sent us into a flurry of construction because we needed to increase the height of the privacy wall between Timmy and Blade. They weren’t getting along. I blame Blade for that, he was being a butt-head about having a new neighbor and his dinner being late. They settled down that night and both slept soundly.
This morning I took breakfast out to them and Timmy was curled up on his Kuranda (dog bed) in his bedroom, under his heat lamp and was SO happy. It make my heart ache that this sweet boy was so badly mistreated.
Our arrangement for this boy is something new for us: PMFC is basically boarding him. Heather will be coming to do his training. When he’s ready he will transport to Animal Rescue Network of New England to be adopted.
Jan 8
Timmy has been here 4 days. Heather comes in the evenings to train him after she gets off work, I continue and reinforce during his daily play sessions. He’s doing fine. He is quite affectionate, shows no hostility toward my other dogs. He’s even learned to ignore Blade. He loves lounging under his heat lamp – which I leave on for him during the day because it’s chilly and he’s too thin to ward off the cold himself.
Jan 15
Timmy is doing much better at walking on a lead. Far less pulling and easily corrects when he forgets. He and Blade are playing games with each other through the barrier between them. Timmy has been in the yard with Blondie Bear on the loose. That was a little awkward for Timmy, but it turned out well. He sniffed her thoroughly, propositioned her, she said, “Not interested, sonny” and he wandered off to pee on something.
He now routinely sits on command, in fact he often anticipates and sits before I give him the command, so then I have to redirect by stepping away and asking him to “come” then sit. Most of the time he complies if we’re in his kennel. Still iffy with the “come” command in the yard.
His transport date has been set for Feb 26. Heather will make arrangements for Health Certification and getting him to Bulls Gap to meet the transport truck.
Jan. 28
I took Timber off the lead-line for a few days, just letting him out to run unfettered. The first time he walked out the door, stopped, came back and nosed my hands, “You forgot something.” I had to convince him that it was okay, he can go out without it. It brought him such joy! But that lasted only a couple of days before he began getting haughty and refusing to come when called. If I’d go take hold of the handle built into his harness he’d reach around and mouth my arm. It was done gently, but saying, “Don’t do that.” So I’d go get a leash. He does fine on a leash. So it was back to using the long lead.
About 60% of the time he responds to the “Come” command with an enthusiastic gallop across the yard to receive his small treat and petting. Other times he goes stone cold deaf! Sometimes he works his way over to me slowly, meandering along to eventually stand before me expectantly.
Timber is doing well with the “In Your Room” command, which means to return to his kennel. If I do this when he’s within 30 feet of his kennel he will comply. About half the time he will comply from across the yard. But it does depend on if he’s done all his business. If not he will hasten his search and take care of that before complying. Sometimes if I’m occupied (doing a poop pick-up in the yard or something) Timber will decide he’s done playing in the yard and I’ll find him sitting in his kennel waiting for me. What a good boy!
He is really well behaved while “trapped” in his bedroom at night. I put him to bed around 8:00 PM by taking him out for a leash walk so he can pee. Then back to his kennel. I go around and go inside, he comes in through his doggy door and I give him some small treat and close his doggy door. He will stand up and lean against the fencing so I can scratch the side of his face for a while. If I go inside with him he gets too excited, jumping around. Not enough room for that in there. Then he settles on his bed and sleeps. When I return at 6:00 AM to take him out again for a walk, he appears to have just been awakened, I could probably let him go longer, but I don’t want to risk making him have to spoil his bedroom. As long as I let him out every 2 to 3 hours, he will keep his entire kennel clean, preferring to use the yard to potty.
When Blade and Blondie Bear are in the yard together they roughhouse. Timber watches and gets quite vocal. When I’ve put Blade up and let Timber out he goes bounding over to Blondie, intent on roughhousing with her too. But Blondie gives him a “Not so fast, Junior” look that stops him in his tracks. Then they walk around together and peer through the fence. I give him high marks for his ability to reign in that exuberance.
April 2
Timber went off to New Hampshire last night. The Gabipentin / Trazadone cocktail we gave him did the trick. He snoozed for a little while but most of the time he was awake and watching out a side window or sitting between the seats so Marie could scratch his head. But he was not threatening to eat the other cars on the road. A good things since there were a lot of cars on the road.
The only time he got excited was when we passed the Pizza Plus place in White Pine. I guess he had a bad case of the munchies and wanted to stop for a pie. We didn’t stop and he quieted down.
We arrived at the truck top 10 minutes early and the H.E.A.R.T.S. LLC transport was already there. The driver said that new truck is a hauling monster. Even coming up steep grades, it glides along like it’s got no load at all. They made great time as a result.
Timber hopped right up into the trailer when they opened the door. They closed the door behind them while they got him settled in the crate: in case he broke away from them and got loose in there, at least he was contained. It took a few minutes before they came out again, so it’s possible he gave then a challenge.
By the time they opened up again and showed me the special box they had for him, he was calm. Confused and sad, but calm. It broke my heart when he looked at me saying, “What’s going on Doug, aren’t you coming too?” But that’s just part of doing what I do. Timber is alive because people cared, intervened, and saved him. I was part of that process. Now he’s going off to a new home and a new, much better, life. That is what rescue is all about.
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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
Preferred style of play: He likes to frolic. Gets the zoomies sometimes.
Is affectionate: Yes
Is good with:
. Men: Yes
. Women: Yes
. Children: Yes
. Cats: Unknown
Jumps up on people: Some
Mouths: A little, corrects well.
Walks well on a leash: Yes
Commands:
Comes when called: Yes
Sits on command: Yes
Down / Off: Doing better
Shake / Paw: Not yet
Kennels on command: Yes
Diet
💕 Victor Classic – Professional Dry Dog Food
. 1 cup kibble + 2 oz homemade stew AM
. ½ cup kibble + 2 oz home made stew PM
💕 PMFC Peanut butter cookies
💕 Retriever Beef Basted Sticks
💕 Jones Beef Hooves
💕 Grillerz Pork Femur
Medical
DA2PPv: Nov. 16, 2020 by Newport Animal Control
. Booster: Dec. 5 by NAC
. 2nd Booster:
Bordatella: Nov. 16 by NAC
Wormed: Dates | Product | Dose | By
. Nov 20, 2020 Pyrantel Pamoate 2.5 cc by NAC
Rabies: Dec. 9, 2020 by Cedarwood Veterinary
Microchipped: Yes
fi NANO Not registered
To register contact City of Newport Animal Control
Neuter: Dec 9, Cedarwood Veterinary Hospital
Heartworm Test: Dec 9, NEGATIVE by Cedarwood
Flea/Tick preventative:
.
.
Heartworm preventative:
. Dec 10, Ivermectin solution, 0.4 ml
.
Progress notes are listed below, in chronological order, newest at the bottom so you can read through this dog’s history in order.
Dec. 11
Rebel has been here a couple of days and he has settled in nicely. He’s a super-sweet boy who loves attention. He is friendly to the other dogs and he and Josie really want to play together. But they’ve both just had surgery so that will have to wait a while. Blade does NOT like Rebel and is giving him a hard time by throwing himself against the metal privacy panel between their kennels. He has done this so much and so hard that he’s broken the panel and jammed the door to Rebel’s kennel. I’ll need to repair that today. When he does this Rebel scampers off into his bedroom and hides out there. It’s a good safe place for him.
Dec 16
Rebel is SUCH a doll: he is so calm and accepting. He’s affectionate too, but not demanding. Check out the Random Thought on Guillotine Doors for an example.
Josie Darkshep will be leaving on the 18th, that will open a House Dog position that Rebel can audition for. I expect he will do well and be accepted by all.
Dec 25
Rebel has been a “house dog” for three nights now. All three nights he has slept soundly in his crate all night long, not needing to go outside until I get up in the morning. That is normally between 4:00 and 4:30 AM. Today, being Christmas, I slept in until 5:20 when Buddy Beagle decided he needed to go outside. Rebel went too.
Normally Rebel will take quite a while to finish all his business: peeing quickly but needing to investigate multiple potential sites for making his deposit. It was 22° this morning. Rebel went out, took care of everything all in one spot then RACED back to the door. Being an hour later than usual probably played into the swiftness of this task.
He has had no accidents in the house: mostly because when he’s in free play I watch him constantly and if he seems to be “seeking” we go right outside. We are having no inter-dog-relationship issues. After recovering from his surgery his energy levels went up and he’s a bit too rowdy for the other dogs to want to play with now. He intimidates Josephine, annoys Buddy (everything annoys Buddy: he a grumpy old Beagle) Blondie is too old to cavort with him, and Callie is undecided about him. He could be fin to play with, but she’s protective of Josephine, and Josie is scared of him. So she’s conflicted.
He;s getting more free-play in the house. Learning the rules. He is intelligent, mischievous, and inquisitive. He is still a puppy, so he still has puppy mannerisms. But he can be shaped into a great companion because is does seek affection and wants to please. I have another week to work with him, then we’ll hand him off to his next caretaker as he goes North to seek a forever home.
Also, he has the most wonderful, plush, soft coat of fur. Petting him is such a pleasure!
Jan 1
Are we there yet?
We put Rebel on his long haul transport (HEARTS LLC) for his ride up north. He rode in the cab of the truck with us for the first time. Because I’ve always been alone when I transported him before he rode in a box in the back (not to worry, it’s under a shell and strapped down, he’s well protected) because of his tendency to need to snuggle. Snuggling is great when in the house, not so much when I’m trying to drive us at highway speeds. He rode really well. Partly because it was 2 hours past his bed time and he was tired. He slept much of the time. But whenever I’d change speed or direction he head would pop up between the seats to ask, “What’s going on? Are we in New Hampshire yet?”
We arrived at the truck stop in Bulls Gap TN with just enough time to take Rebel for a walk. Just as I was loading him back into our truck, the HEARTS transport pulled in next to us and Rebel got really excited about the big truck. He greeted the driver affectionately, and when the door was opened, instead of shying away like most, Rebel saw all those dogs and said, “PARTY TRUCK, let me in there! Let’s PLAY!” He was ready to ride!
Farewell, and happy tails to you, sweet Rebel. You start the new year with a new location and beginning a new life.
If I get updates and photos of Rebel in foster and his adoption I’ll post them here.
Feb 6
Rebel had some issues getting through NH state quarantine, but these were resolved and he went into a foster-to-adopt home. We are happy to report that Rebel has been officially adopted by that home and is happy and well cared for. He gets along famously with is “brother” Dax, too.
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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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Samson has had a pretty good life, except for having been discarded twice. Now he’s a Steele dog and we hope to find him a forever home.
Last updated: Oct 19, 2018
Base Info:
Arrival date: Oct 13, 2018
Breed: Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Sex: Male
Age: Young, Adult, Mature, Senior
Weight: @ 58 Pounds
Spay/Neutered: Yes
General Health: Good
Temperament: Docile, friendly
Gets Along with Dogs: Yes
Gets Along with People: Yes
Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes
Departure date: Oct. 19, 2018 (transfer)
History
He was adopted from a shelter in Blountville TN in August of 2017. In October of 2018, Samson was surrendered to Newport Animal Control because his family was moving to Government Assisted Housing and Sampson exceeds the size/weight limit for dogs in that project. He is reported to be good with children, dogs, and cats. They also said he was in obedience training in Greenville and had completed 3 of the 4 classes in that program.
Known Issues & Progress
He needs a grain-free diet — which he has not been getting and his skin is in pretty rough shape right now. He is accustomed to being an in-house dog and we can’t do that right now, which makes him upset.
Another Steele Away foster home has agreed to take Samson and provide in-home foster care. Sam will be much happier that way and will retain his Housebroken medal of merit. He’s leaving Oct 19, 2018. Mike and Jeanne will probably post pictures to Facebook. You can look for him there.
Medical
DA2PP: 08/04/2017 (Sullivan County, Bluff City, Kingsport Animal Center)
Rabies: 01/09/2018 (Margret B. Mitchel Spay/Neuter Clinic, Bristol, VA)
Spay/Neuter: 01/09/2018 (Margret B. Mitchel Spay/Neuter Clinic)
Flea/Tick preventative: Oct 16, Advantage, 3ml
Heartworm preventative: dates, product, dose
Heartworm Test/
Gallery
In roughly chronological order, newest at the bottom. Click the thumbnails to enlarge. Some pictures are linked to Doggy Tales and videos about NAME, click those to open the related story or video.
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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.
If you enjoy our updates, 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.
A sweet, smart, energetic fellow: Blue just needs to learn some manners.
Last updated: Sept. 24, 2018
Base Info:
Arrival date: August 24th, 2018
Breed: Terrier Mix
Sex: Male
Age: Young, Adult, Mature, Senior
Weight: @ 35 pounds
Spay/Neutered: Yes
General Health: Excellent
Temperament: High energy but affectionate and playful
Gets Along with Dogs: Good neighbor, likes to play. Not good at sharing.
Gets Along with People: Yes. Still jumpy/nippy but working on that.
Housebroken/Crate Trained: Yes
Departure date: Sept 21, 2018
History
Found as a starving stray.
Known Issues & Progress
Blue was moved here from another foster because he was getting possessive of his Foster mom and nasty toward the other dogs when they approached her. He’s here for socialization training and calming down.
Medical
DA2PP:
Bordatella:
Rabies: Aug. 17, 2018 (Claws n Paws)
Spay/Neuter: Aug. 17, 2018 (Claws n Paws)
Wormed:
Flea/Tick preventative: 08/18, 09/18
Heartworm preventative: 08/18, 0918
Heartworm Test: Aug. 17, 2018 (Claws n Paws) 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 Blue, click those to open the related story or video.
Blue settled in quickly
Loves an (almost) empty peanut butter jar!
New neighbor: Ugg Not his reaction, neighbor’s name
