happy holidays for the v-dogs

sweet happy jhumpa jones

http://blog.timesunion.com/dogs/holidays-at-home-with-michaelvick-dog-jhumpa-jones/1828/

and  a few of her furry friends

Ginger Girl

Here you see me sitting in front of the Christmas tree of Dogtown; instead of ornaments the staff hangs pictures of some of us animals that have been adopted. Oscar and I would like to be on that tree next year…Squeaker

Cherry Garcia

Handsome Dan

http://blog.timesunion.com/dogs/vick-dog-holidays-little-reds-first-christmas-in-a-home/1835/

Leo, gone but not forgotten

Time for our weekly Pet Blog Hop thanks to Life with Dogs,Two Little Cavaliers and Confessions of the Plume…  Grab the code and hop away…

RIP Leo

R.I .P. Leo… one of the Vicktory dogs, a precious therapy dog… how sad and sudden…  Cici and I drove to and from Sacramento this weekend whew… got home Sunday to this news about Leo…

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25214356/ns/health-pet_health/t/beaten-down-dog-vick-case-has-his-day/

“Leo passed away this week from a seizure, but his story lives on. Once a fighting dog for Michael Vick, Leo was rescued and got a NEW OWNER. Under the guidance of his NEW owner, Leo became a “therapy dog” for cancer patients. Thanks Leo for the example you are for your breed. We will remember you with great fondness.”

Hector the Pit Bull
Rest in peace, my cool cousin Leo. The world is a better place because you were in it.
He passed away this week from a seizure disorder. Here is a video from 2008 highlighting his therapy work. Big Hector smooches to Marthina from Our Pack, Inc..

Such very sad news, today, as we all say goodbye to precious Leo. Our hearts should not be so heavy, because Marthina did show him a world filled with love, friendship and a firm place in life. Still so very hard to say goodbye to someone who has touched your life. RIP little man and thank you. ♥
Please, V Dog friends, take a small moment and share some love with Our Pack, Inc. and Marthina.

https://www.facebook.com/ourpack

December 18, 2011

It is with great sadness I must announce the loss of a wonderful soul. This week Leo passed away from a severe seizure disorder. Leo was my working partner, friend and family loved one and I will never forget how wonderful he was. He was so many things to many people and to many dogs. Leo came to Our Pack from the Vick case and I was lucky enough to later adopt him. Even though he didn’t have a good start in life he made life for others around him better. Just after arriving to us, Leo quickly turned inhumanity into humanity. He gave love that wasn’t even given to him. He worked with cancer patients as a therapy dog. He showed kids that no matter what you can still show love and compassion toward others regardless of how life has treated you. He showed the world that one should not be judged based on what property he lives on but on who you are and what you do as an individual. Many dogs are alive today and many people have smiled because of Leo and his work. He gave a second chance to other dogs that may never have gotten one because of who he was and what he did. Please join me in remembering the good that Leo has done and pass it on. We’ve suffered a great loss but we’ve also received a wonderful gift in the time we were lucky enough to share with him. Leo accomplished so much in so little time. Thank you Leo, I love you so much and you will never be forgotten….Ever. For Leo, 2005 – 2011

By: Our Pack, Inc.

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/heavenlycreatures/2011/12/leo-one-of-the-michael-vick-dogs-passes-away/

 If you are able to spare 5$ to donate to one of the V-dogs in Best Friends Animal Society‘s care, you can become a Guardian Angel, would you mind doing it in one of the names of the V Dogs who has passed? Those who are gone, and will never be forgotten are: Sussex 2621, Sweet Jasmine, 7, Bonita, Rose, Red and Leo. Doing little things like this is how we keep their memory alive. Especially if we share them. ♥

is your dog naughty or nice?

If a dog’s prayers were answered, bones would rain from the sky. ~ Old Proverb

back to our regularly scheduled blogging…

it matters when traveling with your pooch whether you go to grandma’s house or not… if your pooch is naughty or nice, right… no one likes to hang out on the holidays (or any other time) with misbehaving pets. Ahead of time, it is good for pet parents to help their furry friends with their manners. And make sure that their pets are safe and comfortable.  And get your pooch a licker license…  🙂

Woof Report has some lists to check off to help with packing and other travel related items…

http://www.woofreport.com/dog-owner-resources.html

now how many other holiday songs can I massacre, I mean, change with meaningful canine lyrics… especially having to do with cookies????

Jingle Bones…

do you have any ideas/songs for dogs for the holidays???

Do share.

And here are some more tips for holiday pet safety…

Even if you think your little ones are ready for a puppy or kitten, save pet adoption for after the holidays. With guests visiting your house, holiday decorations on display, and myriad other distractions during the week, it’s the worst time to try and introduce a small animal to its new home. Also do not give anyone a gift of a pet because many pets given as gifts end up at the shelter.

 
During the holiday season; we all worry about eating the right foods, managing mountains of wrapping paper and preventing our houses from burning down from all of those holiday lights. This year, VCA Animal Hospitals encourages you to think about the holidays from another perspective: your pet’s.

Pets tend to get just as excited as humans about wrapped gifts, festive decorations and delicious food. What our furry friends do not know is that some holiday details can be dangerous. Our gift to you is the best advice condensed into 10 fast facts to keep you and your pet safe this holiday season.

Protect and cover all prepared and uncooked foods, especially uncooked dough which can expand and cause severe stomach pain in your pet.

Every pet parent should know: keep all plants (especially poinsettias, peace lilies and mistletoe) out of your pet’s reach.

Tasty treats are very tempting for dogs and cats, so try to keep them out of reach and most certainly off the ground when you are unwrapping gifts.

Hanging lights and ornaments can be inviting to extra playful pets, but they can also be dangerous. Be sure to keep all decorations out of a pet’s reach.

Opening presents is fun, but it’s best for pets to stay away from all ribbons, wrapping paper and “linear foreign bodies” to avoid accidental ingestion and internal complications.

Left by themselves, pets may get into holiday food that can be potentially dangerous to their health. Foods with grapes, raisins and macadamia nuts can cause problems ranging from digestive upset to possible organ failure.

If you haven’t been warned already: keep all chocolate out of your pet’s reach! There are toxins present in chocolate which can cause problems ranging from mild digestive upset to seizures and can even be fatal. For more details about the hazards of chocolate, see our article “Chocolate Poisoning“.

Dinners around the holidays are all about sharing. Although you may want to share with your pets, try to keep in mind that sudden rich diet changes are likely to upset a pet’s stomach. If you wish to feed your pet a special treat, give only a small amount of table food mixed in with their regular dinner.

Any cords you may have near the floor can be a real danger to your cat. Their sharp teeth can easily puncture electrical wires.

You should try to keep your pets out of the kitchen during the hustle and bustle of the season, as to avoid them getting burned or otherwise injured.

For further information about each fast fact shown above, be sure to visit VCA Animal Hospitals’ Resource Library.

Deck the Halls with bones and folly…

and here is an inspiring tale about Little Red, a former M. Vick dog, who was recently (two months ago) adopted into her furrever home… she still has a LOT of FEAR to overcome. And is taking steps. Her mom is Awesome. And last week, Little Red freaked OUT when she first saw the Christmas tree all lit up. She was terrified and would not go anywhere near it despite the fact that her sleeping place was close by. Little’s mom asked her Facebook pals for advice. She received a lot. And was reassured. Little’s Mom stepped UP big time, treating Little Red, giving her natural calming, anti-anxiety remedies including Bach Flower’s Rescue Remedy and something called Chill Out that I’ve never heard of and voila… the photo below tells what eventually happened. Am SOOOOOO proud/thrilled for Little Red and her mom.  Our friend Stacy Dubuc said that Gingerella was once afraid of Christmas trees, too and had to overcome her fears and did. Am so happy/proud of ALL of the Vicktory dogs and their parents who have given them soooooo much love and care.

and a reporter wrote a nice story about Little including a poem and photo of Little wearing Handsome Dan’s t-shirt, that he got her to keep their connection forever. So sweet. Bring the tissues…

http://blog.timesunion.com/dogs/vick-dog-holidays-little-reds-first-christmas-in-a-home/1835/

Cannot give them kudos without another surprise photo for you below… of our boy Patrick, healthy, loved, happy and cared for by the vets at GSVS Hospital… Merry merry merry…

we have some more V-dog photos coming up soon, stay tuned !!!!

Santa loves Senior dogs

A recent AP-Petside.com poll found that just over half of American pet owners will buy gifts for their pets this holiday season, and they’ll spend an average of $46 on their animals, with toys and treats topping the list. Overall spending in the pet industry (including food, supplies, veterinary care, grooming, boarding and pet sitting) was just over $48 billion in 2010, with over $50 billion in spending projected for 2011, according to the American Pet Products Association.

Don’t know how many folks have senior dogs but we think that seniors of both species should be honored … they are special and often get overlooked. Thankfully some folks have not forgotten seniors.

Santa has come by early for Cici this year… and anointed her his Senior K9’s helper…

the adorable polka dot princess aka Santa’s polka dot elf has a new pal…  the Hear Doggy “Flatties” (since they don’t have the stuffing)  are available in Rabbit, Skunk and Deer. And these ultrasonic toys come with a squeaker only the dog can hear. We have been having a blast!  The toy seems indestructible… we have even played tug of war with it and it looks fine. Cici has chewed on the toy and look ma, no marks on it. Amazing.  Don’t they look adorable together.

and we are donating a bounty of cool items including two flatties, bamboo and charcoal, harness, massager, toothbrush for oldsters, and more…

to Peace of Mind Dog Rescue, who rescue senior dogs and assist senior pet owners

AND

to some very special V-dogs at Best Friends Animal Society…

the V(icktory) Dogs were rescued from a dog fighting ring in April of 2007. 22 of those dogs went to Best Friends Animal Society. Of the 22, there are 14 who are still there. Of the 14, there are two (Lucas and Meryl) who will remain for life. There are a few up for adoption (see below).

If you wish to send gifts to any of these dogs (and a friend at the sanctuary), here’s the info:

Dogtown

Best Friends Animal Society

5001 Angel Canyon Road

Kanab, Utah 84741-5000

Main phone: (435) 644-2001

Please write the name of whomever you are sending in for. I want to make sure they all have a little something.

The V Dogs currently at Best Friends (links to their Guardian Angel pages):

Curly:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13619&tc=WDGENB

Denzel:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13631&tc=WDGENB

Lance:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/list.cfm?action=viewall&tc=WDGENB

Layla:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13625&tc=WDGENB

Lucas:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13624&tc=WDGENB

Meryl:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13628&tc=WDGENB

Mya:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13778&tc=WDGENB

Squeaker:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13640&tc=WDGENB

Tug:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13630&tc=WDGENB

Willie Boy:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13626&tc=WDGENB

V Dogs for adoption (please read their bios, as with all potential adoptions, there are some considerations. As much as we would all love to give a V Dog (ANY dog) a home, we may not suit their needs.) To become a Guardian Angel, click the “Sponsor” tab (the same page as the others will open).

Ellen:
http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013629

Georgia:
http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013627

Oscar:
http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013621

Ray:
http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013639

Magnetic therapy for your dog (or cat). The Silver Tails Magnetic Therapy puts magnets right on your dog. The sleeve is available in small, medium and large sizes and starts at about $5. The collar sleeve and other items in the Silver Tails line (part of the Quaker Pet Group) are sold at Petco stores and online at various retailers.

Magnets work to increase blood flow to an area which means more oxygen and more nutrients to help speed healing. It’s non-invasive and has no harmful side effects.

We know a few pooches who just had surgery who can use one of these harnesses…

The Silver Tails Bottoms Up Harness is perfect for dogs suffering from weak rear end ailments. It supports the dog’s back end while walking, climbing up steps, or entering a vehicle.

The adjustable harness strap fits around the dog’s back legs and clips to the dog’s collar. You can then use the strap handle to lift the dog’s butt giving the dog a boost to stand up. Use the longer leash strap for added support while walking with you.

Whether your senior dog suffers from hip dysplasia, arthritis, or is recovering from surgery, the Bottoms Up Harness will enhance their quality of life.

The harness is adjustable and fits dogs from 20 to 150 pounds.

Bamboo Charcoal Mats

These all-purpose mats and pet bed covers are designed to increase an older dog or cat’s comfort. The mats absorb moisture and odors and help keep pets warm.

Best of all they are machine washable and keep car and furniture dry. The bamboo insert is hand washable and gets recharged by the sun.  Looks lovely, too.

Cici cannot wait for me to use the massager and tooth brush on her…ok, I must admit, I have not brushed her teeth on any regular basis or any basis at all. I think it is important and all that but well, although I do stick my fingers and hands inside Cici’s mouth on a regular basis, the idea of brushing her teeth, has not seemed exactly appetizing. But I will now that I have a proper doggie toothbrush.

The Silver Tails™ Vet-Tech Dental Care System includes everything you need to easily clean your pet’s teeth and gums. The one-handed, ergonomically designed handle allows for greater control and a more pleasant dental cleaning experience for you and your pet. The system includes two kinds of disposable micro-fiber heads. The textured cleaning heads absorb tarter build-up, food particles and debris, removing it from your pet’s mouth. The polishing heads smooth and seal the enamel surface for a longer lasting clean.  Brushing sparkling white teeth and healthy gums. Cici is pretty mellow about me doing most things so I think it will be pretty easy to do.

Speaking of teeth, freeze this toy and voila… a yummy toy that soothes sensitive gums. To ease common senior mouth discomfort, simply soak the toys in water, freeze, and then play. Silver Tails toys are great for teething puppies too!

The Silver Tails Infrared Massager features two heated massage heads – a large head for greater coverage and a small head for smaller breeds and concentrated joint relief. A three-function switch allows for separate heat and massage control. Use daily to help soothe sore muscles, arthritis, hip dysplasia and other age-related discomforts. Rechargeable Battery & Charger Included.

The Silver Tails Hand Held Massager allows you to stay in contact with your pet, creating a great bonding experience. Two massage heads promote healthy circulation while relieving stress and muscle soreness. The flexible design lets you control pressure and the telescoping cradle fits almost any hand.  Just say Ahhhhhh…

when going for a ride with your pup, the Seat Sling is essential. It is a hammock for keeping the car fur free. There are storage pockets and slits to put your dog’s seat belt harness through. And easy washable with soap and water.

Silver Tails is part of Quaker Pet Group, LLC.

Time for our weekly Pet Blog Hop thanks to Life with Dogs,Two Little Cavaliers and Confessions of the Plume…  Grab the code and hop away…

soothing the holiday doggie blues

ok, tis the holiday season, ho ho ho is upon us and I bet you are racing around for bargains from store to store and other madness. do you and your pooch get the blues around the holidays?  maybe it’s all that food and fun you are supposed to have but maybe you’re not having… maybe you are alone, broke, and/or just plain blue …

no worries…we’ve got some tips for you.

Spend quality time with your canine
According to research at the State University of New York at Buffalo, being around a pet provides more stress relief than being around a two-legged companion. As if we needed a study to determine that.  Good for them, good for you.

My #1 tip for addressing the holiday (or any time traveling) doggie blues is simple.  the dogs  you to want focus on them, so spend some quality time with your dog, do something just with your dog.

Most of my guests come with their dogs almost exclusively because we are incredibly pet welcoming, and most of them are doing a getaway which definitely includes (or is because of) pet dog recreation.

Yet some folks travel with their dogs physically with them, but totally ignore them once they’re here. That causes the doggie traveling blues, no matter whether they’re traveling for the holidays or a family reunion, special event (wedding, birthday, graduation), a special relaxing destination (like Crater Lake), etc.

How to fix that? Easy. Providing some FOCUS on the dog, and quality time (just taking them out to potty doesn’t cut it) will eliminate the doggie blues and also unwanted behaviors like barking, whining, scratching, chewing, clinginess, etc.

Give your dog some loving ME time and attention, belly rubs, massage, play time…

Spend some time each day really focused on your dog. Dogs can tell if you’re going for a walk but not really there (texting, chatting on your phone, thinking about how to fix the holiday dinner, worried about what to do when you get back to work, etc.). That focus, and intention of really being present with your dog will go a loooong way to keeping your pooch happy since that’s how dogs live their lives. they really appreciate and respond when we do the same for and with them.

So DO something with and for your dog, with intention and focus…do some training, and make it a game. That lets your dog exercise their mind as well as their bodies, and it’s fun play for both of you. Teach them a trick or behavior that makes you laugh. Be there for them 110% during that time. See how this little bit of focus time really enhances your bond with your dog, and makes you BOTH feel a heck of a lot better…a great way to have a little bit of sanity with all the holiday traveling craziness.

Enjoy! — Liz

Liz Parrish, Proprietor

Crystalwood Lodge LLC

A pet-welcoming destination in the Southern Oregon Cascades, just outside Crater Lake National Park. Relax with the perfect getaway at the edge of the Klamath Basin, in the heart of a recreation wonderland and a world apart from your daily stress!

www.CrystalwoodLodge.com

Why is this called “the Best 30 Miles in Oregon?” Find out here!

ThingsToDoNearCraterLake.com

Calming Collars 

Deb Mendez makes the most delicious, yummiest smelling collars for dogs on the planet. And they look gorgeous, too. Clearly, they are handmade (customized) with lots of love and care. These collars can be used whenever your dog is experiencing extra stress (during travel), anxiety (separation), hears loud noises (thunderstorms and/or fireworks), and/or weird weather. We got a Purple Key West collar for Cici and I love that it is all natural.

www.calmingcollars.com

The regular Calm Me Down blend is a combination that includes lavender, chamomile and balsam. If someone requests an extra strength version,  valerian, lemongrass, mugwort and orange peel may be added. The Good to Go collar is includes lavender, chamomile, peppermint, ginger and other herbs. No essential oils or other fillers, just the actual dried herbs in a cotton fabric sleeve.  The collars work through aromatherapy.  The collars generally last anywhere from 3 to 9 months, depending upon amount of time of usage (every day, 24/7, a few hours a week and so on).

They also make anti-motion sickness collars Good To Go . These will help stop your pet from getting motion sickness when traveling in a car or other moving vehicle.

For summer, there is also the Too Cool collars that help your pet stay cool.

Readers of my blog get an exclusive discount… Just type CICI for a 10% discount on any purchase. You’ll see the discount in the shopping cart before heading to checkout. Cheers !

Dog Pheromones

The Comfort Zone with DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) disperses an odorless vapor that mimics the calming hormone that is secreted by nursing dogs. Pheromones emitted by animals through their skin and glands are natural chemicals that help them to communicate with others of the same species. Basically, it helps dogs calm down.  When animals receive pheromone signals, there is an involuntary behavioral effect on the animals. When the dog or puppy senses the pheromone through the nasal passage, he feels secure and comfortable, reducing his urge to act out through chewing, excessive barking, house soiling or other fear-related behaviors.

It comes in a spray bottle that you can mist away your dog’s stress and also comes in the plug-in diffuser version. You can spray the inside of your dog’s crate 15 minutes ahead of placing your dog inside. These stress reducing pheromones make dogs feel safe and secure and help you control excessive whining hiding, panting, chewing, and other behaviors. The diffuser lasts up to 30 days and refills can be purchased.  Relaxation in a bottle.

They make this product for both dogs and cats. You can purchase through Petco, Amazon or online at their website, find a location near you, http://petcomfortzone.com/home.html.

Other ideas:

Comfort your pooch with a massage and/or a class of doggie yoga … OM

Play some soothing doggie music…our friend Lisa Spector at Through a Dog’s Ear has a big promotion going on, with free daily downloads and an annual word game where people compete to win free music for their favorite shelters and rescues. She is also offering discounts on some dog calming music…Driving Edition and Music to Calm your Canine Companion Vol. 3 until Dec 31, 2011.

More info:

http://willmydoghateme.com/pet-travel/coping-with-holiday-frenzy-sounds-to-soothe-the-canine-soul

Give them some Bach’s Rescue Remedy to calm their K9 nerves

www.rescueremedy.com

Sing them a Silly Song…

New 12 Dogs Of Christmas Lyrics by me

On the ______ day of Christmas my true love gave to me…

1 Cici eating (cause she’s a food ho)

2  Pibbles licking

3 Patrick’s wagging

and a V-dog in a pear tree

4 Victories for Cherry (Garcia)

5 Kongs for Ginger

6 Forever Homes (for Squeaker, Ellen, Ray and Oscar)

7 Handsome Dan’s swimming

8 Jhumpa Jones’ singing

9 Pibbles  zooming

10  Hector’s Leaping (carefully)

11 Pibble puppies playing

12 Dalmatian pit bulls dancing

heroes welcome: adopt a Vicktory dog

Today am feeling sad about a neighbor’s sweet puppy Coco, a chi mix, a tiny dog with markings similar to my Cici… the neighbor brought Coco to me last night for help and assistance, and wanted me to keep her… I could not do so, the dog is only six months old, not house trained nor fixed. At the time they visited I was reeling from the violent police attack on Occupy Oakland as well as just found out that the dogs below are up for adoption, so I was a bit scattered. I called my friend and dog rescuer for assistance and she told me that the people would have to surrender the dog to the SPCA and then another rescue group could get the puppy and get her adopted.

looking back, I feel sick to my stomach. The boy David was crying when I told him this. We brought him and Coco to another neighbor to see if they might want the pup to play with their dog. They said no. If I had it all to do over again, I’d still be knocking on doors until someone said yes.

The sweet shy little puppy, I kissed her head several times and she kissed me back… I do NOT want her to go to the SPCA. She could get lost in the system. I called them this morning and was not very assured. They have a lot of chi’s and chi mixes up for adoption. The gal was ok but there are four gals and some kind of evaluation process. IF Coco passes the eval then she goes to adoption. If not, she gets euthanized. The shelter system is BARBARIC.

So I worry about what happened last night to Coco. The mother of David told me that her friend was going to pick up the dog and keep her for the night. Apparently, the father or her boyfriend, is mean and told David that the dog could not stay. And the mother does not have a car to take Coco to the SPCA. Hoping that the friend came by and got Coco and can take care of the puppy.

Now am thinking of all the things I should have done… I should have taken a photo of Coco, I should have gotten their phone number and address and last name, we talked about it but it did not happen, I should have let David sleep in the living room with the dog last night and so on and on…I pray Coco and David are ok.

Cici, who used to cuddle with me ALL THE TIME, every day for five years, has not been lately, all of a sudden, for about the last month, has come up to me today and is snuggling right beside me… what a comfort she is to me !

Currently, at Best Friends Animal Society, there are FIVE Vicktory Dogs who are up for adoption. Don’t you think it is time they go home??? It HAS been 3 1/2 years. Ellen, Squeaker, Georgia, Ray and Oscar♥. please share.

Little Red

10-26-11 I’ve been thinking about the Vicktory dogs Georgia, Oscar and Squeeker. They have been in sanctuary for over 3 1/2 years and every year that goes by is one year less they will live in a home. (Little came home at 8 1/2 years old). These dogs are ready or nearly ready to find their forever homes. I hope people will reach out and adopt them as soon as possible so they have a chance at a happy home. I can’t tell you how close I came to NOT applying to adopt Little. I had been watching her progress & sponsoring her for over 3 years. I day-dreamed about adopting her but I thought there would be many, many other people with pitbull experience who wanted he. I didn’t think I would be considered since I had 4 other dogs. I met Little twice & spent a week volunteering in her unit. The last day I was at BF — the last hour before I was leaving for home — I got up the nerve to go to the adoptions office and ask about her. I expected to be told that she already had a home — as soon as she passed her CGC. I was floored when I found out no one else had completed an application. Kristi told me there were people interested, but no applications. That was all I needed, I started the process that day and 6 months later she was home. The moral of this story — if you think you are interested in adopting these dogs – go for it. Don’t wait and expect someone else to do it. They need homes now and they are getting on in years. It would be a tragedy if these dogs pass away without ever knowing the joy of living in a home. Little’s Mom

Ellen

http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013629

Oscar

http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013621

Ray

http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013639

Georgia

http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013627

Squeaker

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Victory-for-Squeaker/134215559967930

How to Adopt

One of the most awesome dogs that have already been adopted (they are ALL awesome), Cherry Garcia was adopted by a family in New England who have another pibble and have two cats. One of the cats, Walker, really helped Cherry settle into his new home.  They are best buddies, still regularly snuggle together and groom each other. Cherry (a Very Important Dog) and  family go to lots of events to show how fabulous Pitbulls are. Even after the horrible situation from his past, Cherry shows no aggression toward anyone. Like all dogs, he just wants to be loved.  Check out the progress of Cherry, Ginger Girl, Little Red, Handsome Dan, Hector the Pitbull and others on Facebook.

These dogs are shy and need the confidence that comes from being loved every day by a family. You can follow Cherry’s progress at Vicktory 4 Cherry. If you think you’re ready to bring one of these special dogs into your life, contact Best Friends Animal Society at dogadoptions@bestfriends.org.

http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/HowToAdopt.aspx

Tours and volunteer opportunities at Best Friends

Call (435) 644-2001 ext 4537. Full tours take approximately an hour and a half and wind through the magnificent red-rock landscape of Angel Canyon.

If a tour just isn’t enough, and you have time to interact more closely with the sanctuary animals, please contact us about volunteer opportunities at (435) 644-2001 ext 4119.

love the new badrap website

http://www.badrap.org/

find the former vick dogs under blogs

http://badrapor.www65.a2hosting.com/vick-dogs

http://www.alternet.org/newsandviews/article/686298/occupy_updates:_oakland_protesters_tear_down_fence_to_reclaim_space,_nypd_gets_violent_during_solidarity_march/

happy pit bull awareness day

a very special howdy and happy from the Vicktory dogs, and Nikhi Cormier, who created these wonderful photo tributes to these very fabulous ambassadors for the breed… these former M. Vick dogs started off at the Bad Newz Kennels and were given a second chance … and now they are Loving Their Lives… eight have become therapy dogs, most have been adopted and are living in homes with other dogs, cats and kids… Fifty plus fantastic ambassadors for the breed we love…and of course there is Little Red, Leo, Jonny Justice, Mel, Audie, Squeaker, Georgia and all the others not pictured here…

http://animoto.com/play/j82WcK0obVRrbPxd60UzhQ

https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1855815841972

Blog the Change: Pit Bull Awareness

When I thought about how to honor Pit Bull Awareness Month (and how to Blog the Change), it occurred to me to do an update about Ginger… one of the three former M. Vick dogs I met in Monterey at the SPCA.    I was hoping to also get stats on pit bulls in Monterey from the SPCA but so far nada. There are about 8 pit bulls available for adoption on their website. They are inundated with a large number of chi’s right now.

But in many many shelters across the country, a majority of the dogs up for adoption and the dogs that are euthanized are pit bulls and pit bull mixes due to human ignorance about the breed. Pit bulls are abused across the board, in all ways, starved, neglected, abandoned, made to fight so humans can make money and tortured for no reason other than how they look and human fear and hatred of dogs. Every year 4-6 million healthy pets get euthanized in shelters across the USA and a high percentage of those are pit bulls and mixes.

(Updates about Patrick, the starved dog in NJ and Lennox, a dog that is not even a pit bull, who may in a week be euthanized in Belfast, Ireland …)

More about Breed Discrimination and Pibbles…

Ginger and her mama are very special and fabulous ambassadors for Pit Bulls everywhere. LOVE is the KEY factor that MAKES the difference in a DOG’s Life. And Ginger personifies how great pit bulls are… goofy, loving, sweet and loyal… Even after being fought, tortured, abused, ALL of the former Vicktory dogs are a great example of the breed. Eight of the former Vick dogs are now therapy dogs. And most of the dogs are now spending time in loving homes with other dogs, kids, cats and humans. Several have their own facebook pages… Hector the Pit Bull, Handsome Dan, Cherry Garcia, Jhumpa Jones, and others. Clearly, it is NOT the dogs that cause problems, it is the humans that make a difference, one way or another.

From Stacy Dubuc, Ginger’s wonderful adopter aka doggie mama:

After being rescued from Michael Vick’s Bad Newz Kennels, Ginger made the long journey from Virginia to The SPCA for Monterey County.  Two years old at the time, she had spent most of her life in a kennel and had had very little positive interactions with humans.  She quickly went into a foster home to provide her with a quiet stable environment where she would hopefully come out of her shell.  Her early months in foster care were not easy, she was incredibly timid and would cower and hide whenever approached.  The timid shell of an animal I brought home needed way more than simple material items – she needed compassion, patience, love and some sort of understanding after the ordeal she had been through.

Our early days and months were not easy – her clinging to the back of her crate for hours on end as I cried and wondered if we would ever be friends, her fleeing from any attempt at a gentle touch, refusing to eat for days as I tried a variety of techniques to prevent her from wasting further away…it goes on and on and has probably been experienced by many a person fostering an abused animal.  We worked through those tough times and eventually became friends.

It is hard to believe but November 6^th will make four years since Ginger came home with me. It has been such a pleasure watching her evolve into the confident, happy, and incredibly loving dog she is today. She loves running about the yard, going for long walks along the rec trail, naps, treats, etc.  The dog that used to cower from people is now curious and willing to meet new people. While, she will still shy away from being petted by most strangers, she will eagerly sit and take treats from them.  Most of the people we meet will never know her past…they simply see her as a beautiful happy dog passing by them on the trail.

Ginger Girl’s Facebook page

creating a peaceful dog oasis

imagine creating a fido delicious peaceful paradise backyard both for us humans and cici…

I’d like it to have a garden, fountain, pool/water, a sand box for cici to dig and a bunch of plants, trees with fruit… perhaps…

need a wooden box, organic soil, flowers and plants, wheat grass, grass and oat grass seeds, veggie, fruit seeds, wild bird seed, rocks, herbs, water fountain, fruit trees, sand box and more…

already put an ad on freecycle and craigslist, but so far, nada.

if you have any other suggestions on how to get any of the above for free or inexpensively, or if you’d like to donate, every little bit helps, thanks.

At the Cambria Pines Lodge, they have an amazing organic garden with a flower bed (shown below)… would love to recreate something like that. we’ve got a wheelbarrow and a wooden futon frame that I could get creative with.

Also want to create a community garden… and have artists paint the fence with murals. there is graffiti already on one side of the fence (outside) that could be painted over… images of PEACE… calming… Findhorn garden… a showcase for talented artists in this community…

this is an amazing peace site:

http://www.wherepeacelives.org/peace-murals.html

how to do this without spending a fortune????

and just how to do this hands on practically…   this site has some great ideas, tips and resources…

http://www.heraldtimesonline.com/stories/2007/02/10/homes.nw-901049.sto

Nobody speaks for Fido when it comes to the backyard landscape. Yet he spends more time there than anyone else in the family.

What I call a K-9 conscious garden design blends amenities for you and your dog into a harmonious space. It also addresses the most common safety problems that can hurt your pooch and send your vet bill into the stratosphere.

Dogs are naturally mobile creatures, forever on the hunt for food like their ancestors the wolves. When they are cooped up with nothing interesting or mysterious to explore, they adopt undesirable behaviors out of frustration and boredom. Planting a tall grass meadow with flowers is not only a beautiful, wildlife-friendly form of gardening, it gives your dog hours of investigatory pleasure every day. Sure, manicured lawns are great for Frisbee, but when you’re at work that meadow becomes a primal bit of heaven for man’s best friend.

If you live in the city and don’t have room for a meadow, here’s a good alternative. Wheat grass juice is a big health drink for us and it’s just as good for dogs. They will naturally graze on it when they need the nutrients it contains rather than browsing your flowerpots. Consider planting wheat grass in low, wide troughs. Use flat plastic under-the-bed storage boxes with holes drilled in the bottom for drainage. Fill the boxes with potting soil and sow with seed. Dirt-cheap organic seed for wheat and oats can be found in the bread-making section of the health food store.

Since ancient times, herbs have been used to repel fleas in human dwellings. They’ll also discourage fleas in the yard and in your dog’s general hangout areas. If you grow enough of them you can cut the branches, dry and use them to stuff your dog’s bed for a natural pesticide. Many herbs were once known as fleabane because they are so widely used for this purpose, and some may also discourage ticks.

Plant a fleabane garden or incorporate fleabane plants around the garden. When my dog Dot rubs against them I can smell the aromatic oils on her fur, which not only discourages pests, it covers up dog smell with fragrance! I recommend Menta pulegium, also known as pennyroyal. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthum) is also beautiful silvery gray plant and quite effective, too. Old-fashioned tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is top of the list, as well. All are perennial. When you shop, insist on the botanical names to ensure you get the exact plant that repels fleas.

Keep in mind, too, that some plants and landscaping materials are very bad for dogs. Vets say that when dogs are bored they will chew on most anything, and when that something is toxic you have a problem. Cocoa bean mulch contains caffeine and hulls of nuts falling from trees are rich in tannin, so both can be highly toxic if chewed. These include domestic walnuts or wild hickory. A few of the many plants poisonous to dogs are castor bean, foxglove, pokeweed, buckeye and yew. The master list of dog-toxic plants can be found at the ASPCA web site,http://www.aspca.org/toxicplants.

happy dogs sunbathing… cici LOVES to lie in the dirt in the yard and enjoy the rays… this is Little Red with her new dog pal / new home… (Little Red, one of the former v-dogs)…

A tip for pooches eating plants:

If your dog is chewing up your plants, this spicy, cayenne pepper

spray solution may be enough to discourage them. Be

aware that it requires repeated applications. The effectiveness

wears off in a day or two. The rain and automatic sprinklers

also wash it away. A dog won’t be discouraged by just one hot

bite either. They’ll go back and test it a few times with undesirable

results before they finally accept that the plant is not

worth tampering with. Use this spray every day for a couple

of weeks to condition the dog to leave the plant alone. Be sure

to spray the plant early in the morning so that the spray can

dry out before the sun hits the leaves.

1 Tablespoon cayenne pepper

2 Tablespoons powdered garlic

2 Cups hot water

Stir the cayenne pepper and garlic into hot water. Allow it to

set a few minutes then strain the remnants of the spices

through a fine kitchen sieve. Pour the strained liquid into a

plant spray bottle. Use as needed.

download the free ebook for more tips, ideas:

http://www.moplants.com/eBooks.php

vick’s associates still abusing dogs?

Update: Premier K9

http://www.henryherald.com/news/2011/nov/03/businessman-faces-14000-dog-neglect-fines/

“Justice prevailed,” said Vince Farah, animal control supervisor for Henry County Animal Care and Control. “He can never operate the kennel again. It seems like that kennel has had a dark cloud over it, because there [also] were issues with the previous owners.”

Art Washington was the owner of Premier Canine, Inc., a canine-training and boarding facility, at 651 Ward Road, in Ellenwood. Animal control officials discovered unhealthy conditions at the facility, which has subsequently closed.”

****

Despite the news that Vick is the highest paid football player with a newly signed $100 million contract, I’ve decided to not let his seeming success throw me into a tizzy like it has some folks. Because his fake house of cards based on lies cannot last. And once again, it will all fall apart. Because he has shown no remorse, and it was reported in the news that he continues to hang out with the same folks, at a birthday party where someone got shot. He is not supposed to be hanging out with the same people he blames for his killing and abusing dogs. his former partner/animal dealer had one kennel closed down and now has been found to be abusing and neglecting dogs again.  Hello. (read below).  I suggest that people who want to make a difference, tell the world about Premier K9 asap. And make a lot of noise about it. None of the articles say whether Vick had obtained dogs from Washington and/or whether or not Vick and Washington are currently associates. However Vick has knowledge of dog fighters and abusers of dogs that he has not released to authorities that we know of.

http://www.wsbtv.com/news/29040601/detail.html

An Indiana bank sued both Washington and Vick for $2 million after they said the pair refused to pay the bank back after getting a loan to buy 130 cars.

Channel 2 contacted the bank’s attorneys to see if that lawsuit was ever settled, and is still awaiting a response.

Premier K-9 touts professional wrestlers, basketball, baseball and football players as satisfied customers on its website.

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/6895017/nfl-michael-vick-typifies-how-easily-nfl-players-go-bankrupt-espn-magazine

Vick became partners with an animal dealer named Art Washington, first in a car rental business (a $1.4 million investment), then a horse farm on which Vick made a $200K personal guarantee.

Fox 5 in Atlanta reports that Washington is being issued 16 (61 being considered) citations in connection with the conditions at the kennel, and may face additional charges after further inspection of the facility.

State investigators have ordered Premier K9 to stop doing business.  State  agriculture inspectors have already ordered the facility temporarily closed after finding major violations.

http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/dpp/news/iteam/i-team-premier-canines-20110829-es

http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/dpp/news/iteam/i-team-premier-k9-20110830-es

Henry County animal control offices say they are considering filing 61 counts of inhumane treatment of dogs at the Premier K9 dog training and boarding facility…

Washington’s former kennel cloud nine pet resort was shut down due to animal abuse 12 years ago…

one lone teenage kennel worker was told to feed 61 dogs every other day… and the neglect happened over time not just a couple of days…  dogs at risk of heat stroke…two dead dogs…

Washington told investigators he is selling the business, which raises, sells, trains and imports German shepherds, Rottweilers and Presa Canarios.

Washington has had extensive business ties to Vick, WSBTV reported, including a partnership in a former car rental venture. ESPN Magazine reported the Vick and Washington were also partners in a horse farm at one point.

According to the Premier K9 website, the company has provided dogs to many athletes and celebrities…

Washington’s formal statement…

http://media2.myfoxatlanta.com/image/PremierK9ArtWashingtonOwnerStatement.JPG

Vick’s ex-partner, Art Washington of Premier K9 has just been cited and law enforcement possibly will be pursuing more charges because authorities found dead dogs and dogs living in feces and in deplorable conditions.   Washington was operating without a breeder’s permit.  Vick was a breeder and was involved in numerous businesses with Washington.

http://www.ajc.com/news/henry/ex-vick-partner-cited-1153101.html

http://www.ajc.com/news/henry/animal-control-suspicious-of-1153771.html

http://www.crossingbroad.com/2011/08/michael-vick-isnt-going-to-see-anywhere-near-100-million.html

http://www.cnbc.com/id/44327928

Michael Vick remains on a very strict court appointed budget.  $40 million is guaranteed, and his creditors get $20 million by 2014 or 2015.  Vick, until 2015, gets to take an allowance of $300,000 for himself.

If Vick only earns the guaranteed $40 million:

$40 million – (roughly) $15 million in taxes and $1 million agent fee = $24 million

$24 million – 40% to creditors ($9.6 million) = $14.4 million

UPDATE: Darren Rovell says it’s actually going to be a lot less. There are substantial lawyer and accountant fees that Vick has to pay, among other restrictions. He could receive as little as 11% of what the Eagles pay him.

Two-thirds of every dollar Vick earns goes to creditors and taxes.

• The rest of the money is strictly controlled. Think of it as an allowance.

• Vick can spend $4,250 per month on rent and utilities and $472 per month on a car. His mother, who was on Vick’s payroll during his headier, pre-prison days, can receive $2,500 per month.

Michael Vick, I’ll never cheer for you – Jon Friedman’s Media Web – MarketWatch

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/michael-vick-ill-never-cheer-for-you-2011-08-31  NEVER!!!

It’s a fact that 100% of known serial killers admit torturing & killing animals before moving on to humans. If we excuse the animal abusers, we give our permission for them to take the next step. Punishing them harshly the 1st time they harm an animal can  save lives.

A survey of pet-owning families with substantiated child abuse and neglect found that animals were abused in 88% of homes where child physical abuse was present.

A study of women seeking shelter at a safe house showed that 71% of those having pets affirmed that their partner had threatened, hurt or killed their companion animals, and 32% of mothers reported that their children had hurt or killed their pets.

Premier K9 sells only prong and chain collars and poor puppies like this…they are located in Ellenwood, Georgia (about half an hour from Atlanta, Ga).

Strongly suggest/recommend that getting the word out about this asap…

On this blog, I will NOT allow comments that are violent, involve name calling, suggestions of how to abuse the abusers, and/or other such rage venting which solves nothing and saves NO DOGS. If you have ideas, petitions, constructive comments, feel free to make them, thanks.

well, it is another weekend, Labor day, so am hoping you are going to have a fun time… keep your fur babies safe… and if you’d like to join us, hop aboard the Blog Hop, thanks to Life with Dogs, Two Little Cavaliers, and Confessions from the Plume… catch the code…