Saturday, July 31, 2010

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!

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

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!!

Monday, July 5, 2010

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.

Friday, July 2, 2010

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!