The Gang's All Here!

The New Year is almost here, and we've had alot of dogs find homes this year. We are so glad that there are so many once homeless dogs, living in new homes and having a warm bed to lay on this Christmas!

However!! We still have many wonderful dogs who are spending Christmas at the shelter this year. They would love to join your family.... introducing:

"Rex" **transferred to A Better Chance Animal Rescue**
Breed: Pyrenees / Collie X
Sex: Male
Age: 2 years

Smart, Obedient & Loyal described this big boy! He is very gentle with people and gets along great with other dogs. (not yet tested with cats) Rex knows some basic commands like "sit" "down" and "shake a paw". Would make a great addition to any active family!



"Makayla" **transferred to Brooks Animal Protection Society**
Breed: Retriever / Shepherd X
Sex: Spayed Female
Age: 4 years

Makayla is a sweet little (45 lbs) dog who loves people! She gets along fabulously with other dogs, and spends her time running around outside. Makayla does have some separation anxiety, which just means that she will need to be crated when left alone. She is very quiet, very loving, and very silly!!! Makayla is house and leash trained!



"Lucy" **transferred to A Better Chance Animal Rescue**
Breed: Border Collie X
Sex: Spayed Female
Age: 1 year

Lucy is a very active young dog. She would do great in agility or flyball sports. She loves to run and play with other dogs, but likes to chase cats. She is good with kids, and would make an excellent family dog. Lucy enjoys her daily walks, and would make a great running or hiking partner.



"Harley" **transferred to Windy City Canine Rescue**
Breed:Black Labrador Retriever
Sex: Neutered Male
Age: 4.5 years

Harley is an all around wonderful dog. He is gentle and loyal, and gets along with other dogs & cats. He is house and leash trained, and loves to go for walks.




"Buddy" **transferred to Misty Creek Dog Rescue**
Breed: Chihuahua X
Sex: Neutered Male
Age: 1 year

Poor Buddy has lived his entire life outdoors. All day and all night he would spend in the cold, barely being fed or looked after. Buddy is now ready to start a new life!! He is a bit shy towards new people, but with time he will cuddle up on your lap! He is good with other dogs and cats, and is working very hard on his leash manners and house training!




"Yogi" **adopted**
Breed: Great Pyrenees X
Sex: Neutered Male
Age: 1.5 years

Yogi Bear is a gentle giant! He needs a lot of room to run! Yogi loves to play with other dogs, and is completely housetrained. He would love to find a big acreage where he can run and play all day long! He is content to lay beside you for cuddles, and enjoys being the center of attention!


Remember! That with big dogs, comes BIG poops, LOTS of hair, and DROOL!!! :)





"Chip" **transferred to Windy City Canine Rescue**
Breed: Dachshund / Chihuahua X
Sex: Neutered Male
Age: 7 months

Chip is an extraordinary little guy! He has been through alot in his short life, but is very excited to be starting fresh! Chip is currently in a foster home, and they report that he is melting their hearts!! He is great with dogs and cats of any sizes, and loves kids! He enjoys his daily walks, and is completely housetrained!






"Colby" **transferred to Brooks Animal Protection Society**
Breed: Black Labrador Retriever
Sex: Neutered Male
Age: 7.5 years


Colby wants you to know that adopting a Mature dog is very exciting! There will be no puppy messes, no potty training required, no chewing, and lots of love! He is a big boy, so will need plenty of space to stretch his legs! Requires alot of daily exercise to keep him content!





And we can't forget about Lexie!
Breed: Boxer / Pit Bull X
Sex: Spayed Female
Age: 1.5 years

Lexie is STILL looking for that furever home!!! She would like to find a family where she can be the only pet. Definitely no small dogs or cats. Lexie LOVES to go for walks and explore. She also enjoys running beside a bike (leashed, of course). She loves sitting in the passenger seat with the window rolled down, and loves to play tug of war with her toys. Lexie is also content to lay beside you for some cuddle time and belly rubs!

Thank You!!

Our Supply Drive was a HUGE SUCCESS!

THANK YOU

to everyone who came out and donated to the animals!!!

Supply Drive

Join us on DECEMBER 18, 2010 for our

SUPPLY DRIVE FOR HOMELESS ANIMALS!!

Where: Taber Civic Centre Auditorium
When: 10am - 4pm

Stop by and donate a new or used dog/cat item, or a bag of food!! There will be a bake sale, where you can find yummy treats for your 4 legged friends - a bbq, proceeds going to the shelter - bring your pet and get a Christmas themed picture - and learn more about how to donate a dog or cat bed to the shelter, or get more info on our fostering program!

Our available dogs & cats will be making an appearance,
so stop by and you might meet your new best friend!!!

For more information, email us at taberadoptionoptions@hotmail.com
or phone 403.894.0120


Hope to see you all there!!!

Wanted: A Warm Bed

As the cold weather fast approaches, these loveable doggies are in need of a warm furever home!

"Jack" **adopted**
Breed: Border Collie
Sex: Neutered Male
Age: 1.5 years

Jack is your typical Border Collie: smart, playful, friendly, sociable.... just wonderful!! Believe it or not, this well behaved boy was found wandering the streets by himself, and nobody ever came to get him. Jack LOVES his daily walks, and would make an excellent running partner. He enjoys playing with other dogs, and would love to have a canine companion in his new home. Jack is a very active dog, and will require alot of exercise. He would do fantastic in agility or flyball activities!

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"Lexie"

Breed: Pit Bull X

Sex: Spayed Female

Age: 1 year

You may remember Lexie from a few months ago..... well, she's back. Unfortunately, Lexie is just a bit too rough for a home with other dogs. She did great with the 4 year old child, but the small dog just couldn't keep up with her. We would like to find Lexie a home where she can be the only pet. And preferrably no kids, as she can easily knock them over. She's definitely a stubborn gal, but with the right amount of exercise and attention, she will be just fine!

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Last, but certainly not least, is Mandy:

"Mandy" **transferred to Windy City Canine Rescue**

Breed: Cocker Spaniel

Sex: Spayed Female

DOB: January 19, 2000

Mandy is a dog with a sad story. Her owner dropped her off at the shelter, simply because nobody wanted her after a divorce. He informed us that she had a history of biting, and when we asked more about that... he said "she's old and can't hold her bladder as long, so when she pees on the floor I smack her. And then she bites me." Now, we've known Mandy for a few weeks now, and not once have we seen her lash out or become aggressive towards anything. In fact, she longs for cuddles and attention. She may need more frequent pee breaks, as she is nearly 11 years old! but other than that, she is a perfect little dog.

She came in with eye infections, ear infections, and two lumps: one on her belly, and one on her back. The owner had nothing to say about her health.. but we later found out that the large lump on her belly was actually an infected hair follicle. You may ask yourself, how long has she been living with this infection? Well our vets estimate about half of her life.

When we questioned the owner on how she likes daily walks, he said "she walks everyday: from her bed to her food dish". Needless to say, Mandy is a tad overweight.

Mandy has since been medicated, bathed, had the lumps removed, had a dental, and now receives daily walks! She still has a few more pounds to lose, but is becoming more and more active every day. When you look in to her eyes, you know there is a story. But she continues to shine each day. Mandy would like to find a quiet home, maybe with an elderly couple, who can take her for short walks each day, and who will give her a nice soft bed to lay in! She does great with other dogs and cats, but prefers mature animals who are gentle & quiet.

If you come by and visit Mandy, you'll instantly fall in love with this once discarded angel.

Nose To Toes Dog Day

On September 18, 2010, Nose To Toes grooming will be celebrating their 20th Anniversary! They want everyone to join the celebration, so are holding a dog day in the park! There will be a BBQ, and lots of fun activities for you and your furry friends!!
All of the proceeds from the day will go to Taber Adoption Options!

When: September 18, 2010 @ 11am - 4pm
Where: Confederation Park (if poor weather, meet in the old Sears building on 48th Ave)

Some of our available dogs will be making an appearance at the park, so come on down and show your support!! ......
You just might meet your new best friend :)

Looking For The Perfect Home....

We'd like to introduce two doggies who are looking for homes!

"Kira" **adopted**
Breed: Shepherd X
Sex: Spayed Female
Age: 8 months

First up is Kira. She was found on the reserves with her mother and siblings, and taken in by the Misty Creek Dog Rescue. She was transferred here in hopes of finding her furever home! Kira has been here for about a month now and has been an absolute sweet heart! She is a petite, gentle dog who loves to be around people - and gets along with any other dog! She loves to go for walks, and play with other dogs. Kira would definitely make a great running partner. She is learning how to play fetch, and is such a quick learner! She has a lot of potential to be THE perfect dog... it won't be long before she is snatched up!!

"Ben" **transferred to A Better Chance Animal Rescue**
Breed: Pyrenees / Red Heeler X
Sex: Neutered Male
Age: 10-12 months

Next is Big Ben!! Ben was found outside of Town and brought to us in hopes of finding his family. His family never came looking, so Ben is now looking for a new home! He's a great big boy with a lot of energy! He loves to be outside, running around. Ben has been great with the other dogs, but has not yet been tested with cats. He would prefer a big farm or acreage to call home, as he does not like to be confined and will jump a fence to get out. If you're interested, please come visit this gorgeous dog!! You won't be disappointed!

Surrenders

It seems to be a popular season for people to surrender their dogs......
we have TWO to share!


"Lady" **adopted**
Breed: Mini American Eskimo / Pomeranian X
Sex: Spayed Female
Age: 4 years

First up is Lady! Lady is a beautiful little dog with so much potential! She has been bounced around from home to home, and is longing to find that permanent furever one. Her last owner left her alone in the yard all day while at work, so Lady has picked up a habit of barking. But with the right stimulation, and even a canine companion to keep her company, Lady should be alright! She gets along with all dogs, big or small, and cats as well. Lady would do best in an active home, as she is a very high energy dog. She loves to go for walks, car rides, play with toys.... small energetic kids might be the perfect match for her! If you think Lady might be the right dog for you, please give us a call!

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"Ziva" **transferred to A Better Chance Animal Rescue**
Breed: Blue Heeler / Shepherd X
Sex: Spayed Female
DOB May 30, 2009

Next is Ziva! Ziva was impounded by the police after her owner was charged during a traffic stop. He later admitted that she wasn't properly taken care of, and wanted us to find her a new home. She is still young, at 14 months, but knows alot! She is housetrained, leashtrained, knows "sit", comes when called, and listens very well. Ziva does great with other large breed dogs, but tends to pick on the smaller ones. For that reason, Ziva cannot go to a home with smaller dogs or cats. She is very energetic, and would make a great running / hiking partner! If you're looking for a smart, athletic dog... look no further! Ziva is very willing to please, and would still love to learn more!

How Can You Resist?!

"Matt" **adopted**

Breed: Heeler / Border Collie X

Sex: Male

DOB: March 30, 2010

Matt and his siblings were born on a farm just outside of Cardston. His mom is a gorgeous Red Heeler, and his father was probably a Border Collie. His sisters have since found homes, so Matty is looking to find his perfect furever home!

He's a very social little pup, great with other dogs and loves people. He barks at cats, but that's just because he thinks he's the boss! Amazingly, Matt has caught on to housetraining very fast and never makes a mess in his kennel! He spends his free time playing outside with the big dogs - and is learning how to play fetch! Matty would be the perfect pet for a young family who can grow with him! He will be an active dog, so daily walks and playtime are a must!

Remember, dogs are a lifetime committment - so please put a lot of thought into it, before choosing to adopt a puppy!!

Moving

One of the most common reasons why we have pets surrendered to us is because of "Moving."

Usually it's a panic. People are moving the very next day and the dog or cat has to go NOW. Renters move into no-pet housing. Acreage people move into town and think their dog/cat won't adjust. People just plain move and either can't be bothered or don't want to put forth the effort to take their furry companion along. Seniors move into housing that doesn't allow pets. Sometimes people will take their dog but not their cat.

Really?????

To us as rescuers, this is a very frustrating situation. While there are extenuating circumstances that can require rehoming, this should be an absolute LAST resort, not a given course of action. People don't leave their kids behind when they move, why their furry friends? A lot of moving woes can be solved by PLANNING.

Renters: Have a plan for if you choose to move, or if you have to move. If you are a student and are planning on going home for the summer, will your parents accept your pet? If not, maybe you would be better off fostering instead of adopting. Saves on vet costs too. Changing pet policies or new landlords evicting tenants may result in a "have to" move. Talk to friends and family. Have a place where your pet can stay for a few weeks or even months. Be prepared to pay for care (after all, you pay for food and litter anyway, right?)

Acreage/Town People: Many country people have big dogs, and don't think they will do very well in a town. Some do, some don't. Give your pet the benefit of the doubt - try it! It may require more effort (walks....) but most pets will adjust. If you think you may be moving into town, think twice before adopting a big dog you won't want to bring into town. If moving from town out into country, think twice about keeping a small dog outdoors, or letting your cat outside. The dangers are different, and your pet may not recognize them.

PLAN: In rescue, we try to advocate for the pet. We try to advocate for a lifetime commitment to a pet. If you are moving and not planning on taking your pet with you, for whatever reason - know that your pet is the one with the difficult path. They are the ones that must adjust to new situations. Planning can help alleviate the panic that can come with moving and not knowing what to do with a pet even temporarily.

If you have to move and suspect you can't take your pet, let us know as soon as you know. Not at the last minute. We have limited space available for intakes. We also want to transition things as easily as possible. We may not be able to help with all cases - and ultimately, the reality is that the owner is the one who is responsible. We will always advocate for the pet - because they can't advocate for themselves.

So, please, make a plan that will save both you and your pet from Moving Day.

Jazzy

The newest addition to our shelter is Jasmine! (aka Jazzy)

"Jasmine" **transferred to Misty Creek Dog Rescue**
Breed: Black Labrador Retriever
Sex: Spayed Female
DOB: November 4, 2002

Poor Jasmine was surrendered by her family when they decided that they didn't have time for her anymore. It is often hard for older dogs to find new homes, but Jasmine wants you to know that she is very willing to please!! She is very well mannered, housetrained, leash trained, great with other dogs, loves kids.... the list just goes on! Jazzy would make a great addition to a family with a moderate activity level. As long as she gets her daily walk, Jasmine won't complain at all!! She even knows some cool tricks! If you are looking for a mature, well rounded dog - look no further!

Some New Faces..

We have some new faces in our shelter, and they are all looking for great homes!

"Fezz" **transferred to A Better Chance Animal Rescue**

Breed: Jack Russell Terrier

Sex: Neutered Male

Age: 8.5 years

Fezz was surrendered by his family when they moved and did not want to take him. It may take him a bit longer to adjust to a new family, as he has been in the same home since he was a puppy. Nevertheless, Fezz is doing great! He is great with other small dogs - but has "little dog syndrome" when around the big dogs. For this reason, he cannot go to a home with large dogs. He is great with kids, and loves to be around people.

Fezz came to us very overweight, but has already started his weightloss program!! He is getting daily walks now, and smaller meal portions!! It won't take too long to get him back in shape!! His new home will have to be diligent in giving Fezz all of the exercise he needs, so that he doesn't fall back into this state.

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"Lexie"

Breed: Pit Bull Terrier X

Sex: Spayed Female

Age: 11 months

Lexie came to the shelter a few weeks ago, when she was found out of town near an oil battery. A kind young man had seen her there for a couple days, looking scared and hungry, and was finally able to catch her. He was sure someone had just dumped her off there.
Lexie is definitely proving to be a great dog!! She loves to be outside playing with other dogs. Although, she doesn't know how to act around small dogs or cats. Lexie would love to find a very active home that can take her for daily walks/runs - and would also benefit from a canine companion! Her favorite games are fetch and tug-o-war. She is housetrained, and slowly learing leash manners.
Although she can sometimes be stubborn and rambunctious, Lexie is learing that having good manners gets you more treats :)

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"Max" **adopted**

Breed: Bernese Mountain Dog / Golden Retriever X

Sex: Neutered Male

Age: 1 year (DOB May 18/09)

Max was surrendered because his family moved in to a small apartment and didn't think they had room for him. Although he is quite large, weighing in at just over 100lbs, Max thinks he's a lap dog!! He'll climb up on your lap without evening thinking! He is house and leash trained. He's gentle with kids, great with all other dogs, and adores cats - you won't find a more perfect dog than Max!!

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"Reece" **adopted**

Breed: Shepherd X

Sex: Spayed Female

Age: DOB Sept. 7/09

Reece was picked up running at large. Her owners were contacted, but they never came for her. It's a mystery why, because Reece truly is a wonderful dog! She will play fetch all day long if you let her. And she gets along great with other dogs. She walks well on a leash, and is housetrained. We found out that Reece was hit by a vehicle shortly before arriving at the shelter, but she has no long term effects from that. Her owners were driving that vehicle.
If you're looking for an active dog, who loves running, hiking, playing, swimming, etc... Reece is the dog for you!

Kittens vs Adults

Kitten season is once again upon us! While at other times of the year we see people interested in older cats, it seems as though in spring everyone focuses on kittens. However, they may not be the best fit for your family.

Kittens are cute and fun! However, most people forget that they grow up, and they do so very quickly! Within about 6 months your kitten will be approaching adult size. Some things to consider before adopting a kitten:

- Energy! - if you work long hours or do not have much free time in a day, an adult cat may be better suited for you. If you really want a kitten, consider 2 as they can wear each other out.

- Allergies - if you suspect that anyone in your home has allergies to cats, sometimes adopting a kitten can help you become immune to "your" cat. Be ready to try different remedies, or consider fostering if you are really unsure about allergies.

- Lifetime Commitment - you can expect an indoor cat to live about 18-20 years. This is a long time. Consider where your life will take you and if you will have that time to commit to your cat. If you want to start travelling in 10 years, consider adopting a 10 year old cat.

- Expense - kittens require more vaccinations and their immune systems are not as well developed as older cats, so they are more susceptible to kitty colds

- Kids - if you have young children, an adult cat may be a better match. Many families with young children do not have time to manage a kitten, and young kids may hurt a kitten.

- Other pets - sometimes kittens or juvies (teenaged cats) can be easier to introduce to other cats, but care must be taken so the kitten is not harmed.

- Fun - if you have time every day to play and want to watch a kitten change and grow, then a kitten may be for you!

Adult cats - are usually calmer, and you already know their personalities. From rescue groups they will already be fixed, vaccinated, and ready to go. Adults are usually more accepting of you being at work all day and can more readily amuse themselves without getting into too much trouble! Older cats are still very adaptable and very grateful to be rescued! As most of our rescues are kept in multi-cat households, introducing them to your resident cat (or even dog) is usually not a problem - and we can help you pick the cat that would best suit you!

When considering adopting a cat, please consider your circumstances before automatically choosing a kitten! While kittens are very cute and fun, they do not stay kittens forever. Adopting is a serious commitment and it is important that you find the right cat for your family!

ADOPTION FAIR

When: Saturday April 10th
10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Where: 6201 54th Avenue Taber, AB
(Public Services Shop)

All of our available dogs & cats will be waiting for your visit!! Even if you are not interested in adopting, please stop by and show your support! We will be accepting donations at that time. Some of our most needed items are listed at the bottom of our website.

The adoption fee for dogs is $200.
All of our dogs are vaccinated + dewormed, healthchecked by a veterinarian, spayed/neutered and microchipped.

The adoption fee for cats is $100.
All of our cats are vaccinated + dewormed, healthchecked by a veterinarian and spayed/neutered.

These adoption fees are non-negotiable, and help to offset the cost of saving another dog or cat. When you adopt, you are not only saving one life but you are opening up a space for another animal that needs our help.
All of our animals are spayed/neutered, no exceptions. This promotes a long healthy life for your pet, and decreases the number of homeless animals.


If you have any questions about our upcoming adoption fair, please call Jill @ 403-894-0120. Also look for our ad in the Taber Times this Wednesday!!

The Cardston Trio

Meet Morgan, Taz & Katie. These 3 dogs were all taken out of the Cardston pound. They most likely wandered in from the reserves. None of them knew what a collar, leash or toy was. But now they are all well on their way to becoming the great pets we know they can be!


















"Morgan" **transferred to Misty Creek Dog Rescue**
Breed: Retriever / Shepherd X
Sex: Female
Age: approx 9-12 months

Morgan is your typical puppy: playful! She is always there to provide a laugh, and cuddle!! She gets along great with all other dogs, and is curious of cats. Morgan is working extremely hard at housetraining, although insists that her bladder is just too small! She loves to play outside and go for walks! Morgan's unique "bobbed" tail is definitely a conversation piece!!

















"Taz" **transferred to Misty Creek Dog Rescue**
Breed: German Shepherd / Husky X
Sex: Male
Age: approx 11-12 months

Taz is a whirlwind of energy!! He can run & run, and never get tired!! Taz loves to play with female dogs, and gets along with most males. He loves his daily walks, and is looking for an active family that can take him running, hiking, camping... you name it!! Taz would also benefit from a submissive canine companion!

















"Katie" **adopted**
Breed: Shepherd / Husky X
Sex: Female
Age: approx 1 year

Katie is the most shy of the group. She warms up to people very quickly, but takes her time with other dogs. Katie loves to be outside, laying in the sun! She is learning to walk on a leash and is doing great! Katie would love a quiet home that can work with her to build confidence. She is gentle & quiet, so would do well with kids. She also loves to go for walks!