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Darkness Has Settled …

… bringing with it the frigid temps of a Colorado winter.  Fourteen inches of new snow have fallen since Thursday evening, blanketing the previously brown winter landscape.  It is late Friday night and ice crystals still float in the air … whether wind-borne from the snow cornices drooping on the roof’s edge or falling from the low grey clouds, I cannot tell.  The deepening silence and chill is fitting for contemplation and composition of tonight’s post …

Jackson ...

Jackson came to rescue in 2009, a casualty of the down turn in the economy.  His owner now worked two jobs and no longer had the time or funding to take care of him.  Giving him up was very difficult as the owner had planned to begin training to make him a therapy dog.  

Fostered by Michelle in Wellington, Jackson’s stint in rescue was a relatively short one.  Linda first met Jackson at the Fort Collins Fire Hydrant 5 where we had a rescue/breed booth set up … and where she was immediately smitten with this little dog.  Shortly thereafter, in May of 2009, Linda and Troy added Jackson to their family.  As Jackson was such a nice little dog and didn’t know the word “stranger,” Linda took on the owner’s goal and they became certified as a therapy team.  Linda later fostered Jasper for us and we got to see her and Jackson on numerous occasions as time went by.  Jackson was one of those dogs whose face exuded joy.  No matter the circumstance or the activity, he was a happy dog, his eyes a sparkle.

Linda called me from the veterinary teaching hospital at CSU on January 19th, advising that Jackson had awoke that morning, unable to walk or use his back legs.  After evaluation and diagnostics by the vets, they were of the opinion Jackson had suffered a fibrocartilaginous embolism.  While not rare per se, it is more commonly found in large dogs.  Linda wrote later:

This was harder than I thought. Jackson was put to sleep on Thursday night. He had an autopsy at CSU and then cremated. He is still sitting on our counter and I’m not sure why? Anyway it was a FCE. An embolism. A piece of spinal cord broke off, traveled through a blood vessel and went back to the spine. By the time it lodged, much of the spinal cord had blown. Meaning, the paralysis would have eventually gone to the sternum and suffocated him. There was nothing to do. Pretty rare for a small dog, but the age group was right. He was filmed by CSU through all this is and will be immortalized by teaching vets about this. I’ve attached some photos of the boy. He was truly special and we are a little lost without him. We were honestly loved by Jackson.

As pet owners, we all know that life is transient with our beloved companions.  We watch as the years tick off, collecting vignettes in time from which to draw upon for comfort when we have to let them go.  However, I don’t think any of us can steel our hearts for the untimely loss of a healthy, young dog.  Linda mentioned to me in a phone call how fitting it was that this therapy dog in life would — in death — go on to teach the healers among us.

Jackson cruisin' on the ATV

Jackson’s cremains will be interred in the family plot at some point.  For now, and for as long as it takes until that happens … he’s home.  And I know, without a doubt, that this would have been Jackson’s last Will.

Godspeed, little one.  It was an honor to have been a part of your life.

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Rocky Mountain Cluster …

Tibetan Apsos at early show

This is unabashedly a repeat of last year’s post (and the year before, et al )  … the same information holds true for 2012!

Once again, we’re gearing up for the largest dog show in Colorado … The Rocky Mountain Cluster to be held February 17-20 at the National Western Complex (Expo Hall), 4655 Humboldt in Denver. The Premium List, which contains information on the show, parking, maps and entry, can be found here … Premium List.  The actual times for judging and the ring numbers are not disseminated until just a week before the show; we’ll post a link to the judging program when available.

If you’re thinking of attending, please be sure to give yourself plenty of time for parking, getting into the facility, and then finding the right ring and some chairs (rings are marked by numbers on tall poles).  Parking, depending on where one finds an open lot, can run anywhere from $5 to $10 — and it may also be a very long walk!  Entry fee to the Expo Hall is $5.  Please note that dogs not entered in the show are not allowed on the site.  If considering crowds/parking, Friday or Monday would probably be the better of the four days to attend.   As the largest show in the region, the selection of vendors and their wares is pretty amazing … if it’s dog related, you’ll find it at this show!  From art prints, to clothing, to grooming supplies, to dog beds, to canine-related jewelry, to crates and tables, it will be available.  Might want to bring the plastic along (and keep in mind that the vendors start packing up on Monday for the return home).

Besides the conformation competition, one can also find other venues such as Rally, Obedience, and Agility. These are generally held in the Events Center which fronts 47th Street; Rally is held on the 3rd floor of the main building.  Hope to see you there … it’s a great reason to come out and support the breed!  If you need more information, please feel free to contact me at:  ApsoRescue@aol.com.

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A Different Perspective on Rescue …

"It's All About Attitude" (from the exceptionally talented artist at ArgoStar.com)

I used to say I’d live in a box before I’d give up my animals, years ago before my involvement with rescue as a coordinator.  Over time, my rescue experiences have brought about a different perspective  Honestly … would living in a box be fair to my animals?  If life’s circumstances had deteriorated to the point that I’m living in a box, would I even be able to provide food or medical care for them? Would it be fair to ask them to live such a life?  Am I truly thinking of them … or my own emotional needs?

These questions come roundabout as a result of one of the “ask” forums.  Someone was asking if it would be “okay” for them to return a dog recently adopted from a shelter.  The dog’s age and size were misrepresented or misunderstood at some point in the adoption process and the new owner thought he was getting dog that would grow to be much larger.  The dog was small and was going to stay small … not what the new owner had expected or wanted.

The ensuing comments were vitriolic — to say the least — and expounded on what a bad person the poster was.  My reaction, just the opposite:  return the dog to the shelter so it could have a chance at a life with an owner who wanted a small dog and who could appreciate its many qualities.  Why doom the dog to a lifetime with someone who wasn’t happy with it from the get go?  Do we really think that shaming the owner into keeping the dog is going to change how they feel about the dog?

The flip side is that rescue would like to see every prospective owner carefully consider the impact of adding an animal to their household.  Do they have the time needed for care, training, and socialization?  Do they have the financial means to provide food and medical care?  What breed of dog is most suitable to their lifestyle and home?  Are there small children in the home?  Anyone with allergies?  Are they prepared to commit to the dog for its lifetime?

While it would be great if every dog lived out their life in one home — their forever home — I also understand that there are some circumstances beyond our control.  Surrendering an animal to rescue takes forethought and having the animal’s best interest at heart.  Yes, we still get the occasional lame excuses and, really, I don’t care when considering the big picture.  It is not my place to judge … my responsibility as rescue is to see that the surrendered dog is placed in a home that meets the dog’s needs on every level.  If someone comes up with a seriously lame excuse, then that dog really needs to be some place else!!  If their reasons for surrender are valid or beyond one’s control, then we have to recognize their efforts to do what is best for the dog when they could just drop it off at a shelter and walk away (or worse, yet).

In the end, all that truly matters is the dog and what his or her life is going to be from that point forward. 

And the little dog returned to the shelter?  While the owner was standing in line for the return, she was adopted on the spot.

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Sharing …

… photos as promised!  Our latest foster, Sang-Po, has been in his new home since just before Thanksgiving.  During a marathon of should-have-been-done-before-Christmas errands done in the New Year, I finally got the new family photos taken.  Sang-Po joins BooBoo (a former foster), Kathy and Don in Loveland.  Sang-Po is a good boy, a loving boy … but definitely still a puppy and is keeping them on their toes!

Murphy, our long-legged boy

During the holiday season, I so enjoy hearing from folks who have adopted one (or two) of our former fosters.  Often times the greetings are accompanied by photos, which is of particular delight as many of our fosters came in and leave as young dogs so we get to see how they’ve matured.  The blond boy Murphy is now red gold … Elwood has lots of freckles and a new name (Leonardo) … Bubba has a new name (Max), a new canine sibling (Abby) and sports a thick, healthy coat.  The greatest gift is, however, knowing they are well loved and an integral part of the new family.  To those who shared photos, thank you, thank you, thank you!

Lou, DaVinci (f/k/a Sterling), DeLores, Piccalo, Dean and Leonard (f/k/a Elwood)
Cindy, Max (f/k/a Bubba) & Abby

It is also a time when we must reflect on these little lives, so much more temporary than our own.  Word arrived that we lost Buddy to heart failure.  He was our foster from Casper who was placed twice by the shelter in Casper … and returned twice … before landing in rescue in Loveland.  He then went on to live in Aurora with Sonya in 2006.

Gone, too, is Ms. Frisky Boots at the grand age of 16-years old.  Her elderly owner had died and the family surrendered her in 2004 when it became painfully obvious (literally) that Miss Frisky and the four-year boy in the house could not co-exist.  Having met the child, I’d have bitten him as well.  Miss Frisky had a long, full life with Roberta and Vincent in Wheat Ridge and I know they are sorely missing her.

So it is we start the New Year.  Thankful for the families who share their hearts and homes with the rescues … and tucking away memories of those special dogs who have crossed my doorstep.  Soon, very soon, I will welcome two others as they begin a new journey in rescue.  Stay tuned!

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You Win Some … You Lose Some!

Hardwood floors, my reading nook, and the usual clutter of dog toys and beds ...

The past three months have been a whirlwind … figuratively and literally.  With the home update finally completed, we moved back into the main floor over Labor Day weekend.  Amazing how much stuff one can accumulate.  And which is not fully appreciated until one has to pack and move it, be it downstairs, out in the garage or across town!  Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity are a regular stop as the clean out continues.  One more room to go (the office) and I think we’ll be back to normal.

In mid October, we traveled to Albuquerque to see the end of the Balloon Fiesta (Fri/Sat) and then spend a week at the American Lhasa Apso Club’s (ALAC) National Specialty.  Having never been to the Balloon Fiesta, it was quite the experience once the event got off the ground for the weekend.  Friday was scratched because of the rain; Saturday because of the winds.  On Sunday, we finally got to see the mass ascension of 385+ balloons … what a sight!  One of the most popular balloons of the weekend was … Spider Pig!

BOB - Cut Down Sweepstakes

On Wednesday, Dante was entered in the first-ever ALAC cut-down sweepstakes, meaning dogs who had been clipped could be shown.  Given than he hadn’t been to a show in well over a year, I was just hoping we could get around the ring with no new behaviors thrown in for interest.  When Dante was being shown and specialed, he was notorious for coming up with heretofore unknown behaviors.  Like barking at clapping … bailing off the exam table … barking at the Dobermans in the ring behind us … asking to be picked up.  Never a dull moment with this boy!  Dante was a sport and did everything I asked of him … and managed to pick up Best of Breed in the cut-down class.  His niece, Lily, was awarded Best of Opposite Sex.  That was our win.

Late October bought the freak snowstorm that dumped ten inches of heavy wet snow overnight.  Given that that majority of the trees in our yard hadn’t lost their leaves yet, they sustained heavy damage from broken branches.  We lost one tree outright and there are two others that we’re not sure will survive their wounds.  Alan spent a weekend cutting broken branches and hauling them out of the yard … just in time for the next snow storm to hit.  Not complaining — well, okay a little — as snow equates to snow pack and snow pack is water on the high arid plains of Colorado.  Our beautiful 12-year old Honey Locust is now a bit lop-sided after the snow took five fairly larges branches down, twisting them off the larger wood.  Given the struggle to get trees to grow in our yard, it was like losing old friends.

Our fav lady bug ... Tootsie!

I got word that a certain little dog was a huge hit at Halloween.  Cute as a bug … a lady bug to be exact … Tootsie took center stage with the visitors.  Here’s what I heard from Jane and Jerry:  “I thought that I would share a couple of pictures of Tootsie at Halloween.  She doesn’t look real happy in her little lady bug costume, but once she realized it was going to get her lots of attention, she was just fine with it, ha!  She is such a little love and I can’t believe we got so lucky that we found her.  She has got such a fun personality, she keeps us laughing.”  I think Tootsie was pretty lucky to have found Jane and Jerry!

Sang-Po was placed just before Thanksgiving … best part of that he’s still in town with friends so I’ll get to see and hear of him often.  He now lives with Don, Kathy and BooBoo.  BooBoo is one of our former fosters, our first out-of-state intake.  Arriving from Oklahoma, we picked him up late one night in Limon under a full moon that left the eastern plains awash in moon glow for the three-hour+ ride home.  BooBoo, who has been in his new home since 2003, is showing Sang-Po the ropes and adjusting to not being an only dog anymore!  Photos to follow as they get taken, in the next week or so.

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It’s All In the Numbers …

Edie -- Ambassador for the Breed

On September 18, 2011, I attended the “Bark in the “Park” expo sponsored by the Arapaho Kennel Club at the beautiful Exposition Park in Aurora.  Dante’s co-owner/breeder came down with two of her dogs who had the very important assignment of being breed ambassadors.  We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day in Colorado!

While there, we did an intake on a puppy being surrendered to rescue.  Notable in the fact it was a puppy — we rarely get puppies in rescue — and this marked our 40th foster dog.  Doesn’t seem like 40 fosters but it is when counting them down.  Of those 40, 37 have gone on to new homes.  Unfortunately, three of our fosters were euthanized while in foster care … two for unprovoked biting issues and one for medical issues.  That’s probably the hardest part of rescue [euthanasia]  because “rescue” isn’t supposed to end that way. 

Sang-Po ... a happy boy!

In any event, meet our newest foster … Sang-Po!!  Given a Tibetan name in homage to his ancient origins, it means “kind and gentle.”  That describes this boy to a “T”.  He’s a very loving dog and would like nothing better than to sit in one’s lap.  His ideal home would be one with a dog in residence — a dog that likes to play and is willing to put up some puppy antics.  A home where the new owner will follow through on the crate training and finish up his house training (he’s working diligently on the house training but he’s still a puppy and will need an owner that can provide routine and consistency). 

He’s still in the assessment/training phase of foster care and will not be placed in a home until the end of October.  However, we are accepting applications at this time.

Make sure you get my good side ... and my pearlies
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Pure bred vs. well bred …

What exactly does that mean … “pure bred versus well bred”?  In my many years of involvement with rescue, I’ve had countless “pure bred” Apsos with “papers.”  Papers being a document saying the dog was registered with the AKC (or any of the other questionable registries which have sprung up to circumvent AKC’s DNA requirements).  However, having “papers” in hand does not mean the dogs in question were “well bred.”  “Well bred” meaning they had the qualities and characteristics that make an Apso “an Apso” … a dog possessing breed type.  “Well bred” meaning the breeder strived to produce a dog that could, on any given day, survive at altitude in its native homeland of Tibet (this link contains an excellent article on what makes a Lhasa Apso).  “Well bred” meaning the breeder could document at least five generations of dogs and the health of those dogs.  Dogs whose pedigrees reflect a multitude of champion relatives — not just one or two champions in five generations.  Dogs whose breeders stand behind what they produce for the life of the dog.

Next question is  … where does one find a well-bred dog?  Certainly not from a pet store as supplied by the puppy mills.  Or a “backyard” breeder  (“BYB”) who has thrown a couple of dogs together for a quick profit.  Despite the broad brush used by the animal rights movement to paint all breeders, the majority of show (hobby) breeders strive to produce sound, healthy dogs.  Hobby breeders cannot keep every dog they breed and maintain a breeding line — much like rescue can’t keep every dog that arrives in foster care.  These breeders often have retired champions, young adult show prospects that didn’t turn out as well as anticipated, or pet-quality puppies available for placement … well-bred dogs that need homes of their own.  And for much less than what you’d pay for a puppy produced in the mills and sold by a pet store. 

Always an advocate for rescue, I also believe in providing prospective families with options other than the petstore or BYBs.  A sad fact is 100% of my rescues have come from either pet stores or backyard breeders.  So even though one is obtaining a “rescue,” they were produced for profit with little thought given to their health and breed type. 

Remind your family and friends what breeding does: Every kitten or puppy born is a death sentence to a shelter cat or dog waiting to be adopted.

As a responsible owner and long-time rescue volunteer … I take an exception to the above statement. If not for the responsible, ethical breeders, good representations of my chosen breed would have vanished into the mists of the Himalayan mountains decades upon decades ago. It is only through the work of quality breeders that the Lhasa Apso has survived a forced flight into Nepal, Bhutan and India as well several genetic bottle necks and the invasion of the Chinese into Tibet.  
 
I have more than done my part when it comes to rescue. However, it is not by any of my actions that there are dogs and cats in shelters. Now, I am supposed to give up the breed I love … and have worked tirelessly for … because someone else was irresponsible?  That *all* breeding is bad and my only option is to accept what is coming out of the mills?  That my only choice is an ill-bred dog with a myriad of health problems?   Seriously??  Perhaps if the statement had made mention of “puppy mills,” it would go a bit further in educating the public.
 
Following is listing of well-bred dogs looking for homes of their own.  While these dogs are located in the western half of the US (or Canada), they can be flown to a new home.  In many instances, dogs can travel to other areas with exhibitors headed to shows.  Depending on location, a road trip may be in order.  Don’t like the full coat?  No problem … Apsos can also be kept clipped in a “wash-n-wear” version.  
 
Vinnie:  retired champion, on the larger size, about six-years old.  Very loving dog; great with adults, never been around children; teens would be okay.  Needy in that he wants to be right with you on the couch, etc.  Would need to be neutered.  Located in New Mexico.
 
Zach:  retired champion, almost two-years old.  Still in full coat.  Quite loving and a lap dog; enjoys sitting in the recliner with my husband and will do so for hours.  A real people dog.  Needs a home where he is an only dog or could live with a female dog.  Located in Wisconsin.
 
Big Boy —  He was 1 year on Aug. 30.  I gave him a haircut yesterday; he has a wonderful coat. His markings aren’t as red as his brothers.  I don’t think that he will be hard to housetrain as it was going good until I got sick. The brother didn’t have any accidents. He is very playful, gets along good with other dogs and kids. He is very sweet!!!  Located in Minnesota.
 
Oreo and Ready — retired champions (4-5 years old).  Fully housetrained, would be spayed/neutered prior to placement.  Oreo is very outgoing, wags her tail at everyone, never met a stranger.  Ready is more of a “got-to-get-to-know-you” type; probably do best in a home with no other males.  Located in Utah.
 
Gracie — red/white parti-color female, 10-weeks old.  Dew claws removed, dewormed, tattooed (ID), vet checked, first vaccs.  She loves to have attention and is very playful. She loves toys and actively plays with her brothers. She loves people and has had lots of interaction as she was born and raised in my family room. Located in British Columbia
 
If interested in any of these dogs, please contact me directly at:  ApsoRescue@aol.com.  Serious inquiries only … the breeders of these dogs are looking for owners that will commit for the life of the Apso.
 
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Just because …

… I can. And I love this photo!!! A shot of Bella and PippyDo in their new home in Texas with friend Mazzi …

Bella & PippyDo resting after a hard day of play ...

These two bonded in foster care and, thankfully, met up with Mazzi who just had to have them both.  While I normally do not do female/female placements, these two are the exception.  And exceptionally cute … enjoy!

The house remodel continues.  Mostly at a snail’s place it seems.  While we are moved back into the kitchen, the rest of the house is yet to follow.  Appears we’ll be moving furniture in next weekend … finally!

 
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When You Adopt …

I came across this saying from another rescue group, one that helps find foster homes and permanent homes for dogs in rural areas, coming from high-kill shelters …

“When you adopt a rescue pet, you help save TWO lives:  the one you bring home and the one that takes its place.”

Sharing a bed ... Leo (l), Jody (r)

There’s always a period of adjustment for the foster placed in a new home.  However, with consistency, patience and a set routine, it isn’t long before the “new dog” (literally and figuratively) just shines.

Our latest foster, Leo, is no exception.  The first couple days in his new home were a little rocky for all involved.  Jody, f/k/a Jasper and previously adopted from our group, definitely wasn’t happy with the prospect of a new roomie (not entirely unexpected).  Leo wasn’t sure what was going on.  Joan and Rich were left scrambling to come up with ways to integrate the two that didn’t include Jody growling (we have links and articles just for this scenario).  Days three and four saw “the boys” almost joined at the hip.  While they weren’t playing together, they were following each other around the house.  If one moved, so did the other and vice versa.  Yesterday I got word that Jody and Leo were, indeed, playing together and racing through the house.  Given what I knew of the two dogs, I didn’t think it would take too long before the canine bond was established between these two.

Joan, Leo & Rich

Here’s to Leo’s new life with Joan, Rich and Jody!  Many thanks to Debra and Mark of Berthoud for fostering this boy.

Leo isn’t the only winner with this adoption.   Rich and Joan have volunteered to help out in their area once they get moved and settled into the Canon City area.  Likewise, Tootsie’s new family — Jane and Jerry — have also stepped up in southern Wyoming for transports, pulls and home visits.  “Local” is a relative term out here in the west and can mean 30 minutes to three hours for driving time.  Having volunteers along the Front Range means rescue can be more effective.  Our sincere thanks to Leo and Tootsie’s families for their involvement … welcome to rescue!

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Ancient Treasure …

Long a native of the Tibetan Plateau — some say thousands of years — the Apso is a relative newcomer to the Western Hemisphere.  The first Apsos arrived in the United States in 1933, a gift to C. Suydam and Helen Cutting of Hamilton Farm in Gladstone, New Jersey from the 13th Dalai Lama,Thubten Gyatso.  As part of the Newark Museum’s “Centennial Celebration of the Tibet Collection,” Nancy Plunkett of Tabu Lhasa Apsos was recently invited to the to speak on the history of the Lhasa Apso with special emphasis on the Cuttings’ contribution to the breed through Hamilton Farm.  C. Suydam Cutting of Hamilton Farm provided many of the artifacts to the museum’s extensive “Tibet Collection;” Helen Cutting was a trustee of the museum until her death in 1961.  Today’s offering explores early breed history and its foundation under the “Hamilton” prefix.  [“Prefix” denotes a specific line of dogs bred under a certain kennel name.]

Clicking on the graphic below will take you to a .pdf file of the Newark Museum presentation which can be navigated by clicking on your computer’s right arrow button (>).  If you do not have a .pdf viewer, one can be downloaded (free) at this link … Adobe Reader.

Our thanks to Nancy for sharing this rich and visually beautiful presentation.  Her historical research punctuated by the detailed photos and artwork captures the heart and soul of the breed.  Only by appreciating the past can we carry the breed forward into the future …

Lhasa Apso ... Bearded Lion Dog of Tibet
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The Golden Boy …

TodayKalsang we have an update on Kalsang (now known as “Biscuit”) from his owner, Mary.  Picked up as a stray by the Larimer Humane Society, we were called in when it became obvious the boy needed a major dose of TLC.

“It’s hard to describe the bond between Biscuit and me….we are so in tune with each other. He is the most perfect dog and we couldn’t have a better life. I still think it was a miracle finding him sitting at that booth, after falling in love with him on the internet, thinking he was probably already adopted. I had never been over to the animal house and certainly didn’t know you would be there. It was divine providence and we needed each other so much.

He is spoiled rotten but is still very much the little gentleman. He is doing well physically, thinks he’s a pup, albeit a couch-potato pup, and it’s comical how we communicate. I talk to him like I would anybody and he knows just what I’m telling him. He cocks his head and stares at me and he listens and he just knows. That took a while and I love it! We seniors get along just fine! He is always close to me, even comes down to the basement when I practice clarinet. That’s true love!

I have seen the recent pictures of dogs you have placed in homes and God bless you for your work. These dogs have so much affection and companionship to share and it’s your work and dedication that saves them. Hope you are keeping cool in this humid weather. We are doing as little as possible. Try it, it works. Love and best wishes, Mary”

What a delight to hear that he’s doing so well.  And I’m sure he believes Mary set the moon and stars just for him!  Given his condition when he arrived at the shelter, it was obvious he had long been neglected.  Golden years for the golden boy.

Biscuit is, no doubt, having a better summer than our household.  Still in the midst of the home update, I’ve decided that as long as I have:  a shower, a toilet, and some place to wash my clothes, everything else is just white noise.  Seriously.  As with most major home projects, we’ve had some unexpected issues crop up.  Like a leak in the pipes underneath the sink and going down an exterior wall.  Which means we’re without water in the kitchen or a dishwasher until it’s repaired … sometime next week.  In any event, I’m keeping my sights set on Labor Day to be moved back in.  Or at least moving back in.

The dogs have been troopers throughout the whole ordeal … watching the furniture disappear … seeing all the carpet in the house walk out the door … moving into the unfinished basement … moving into the brother-in-law’s house for eight days while the floors were being sanded/sealed … moving back in.  With still no furniture on the main floor.  Given that both Frankers and Dante are crate trained, they settle in wherever we happen to land, finding “normal” in the familiar.  Having a crate handy — and a dog that willing goes into his crate — is also a boon when it comes to the various workmen traipsing throughout the house.  Keeps the dogs calm (read that “quiet”) and out of the way … definitely appreciated by all involved!

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Wildlife … Colorado style!

On the Prowl

One of the joys of living in Colorado is the diversity of wildlife, be it on a mountain or in town.  Just never know what’s going to turn up.  Even birdwatching, we’ll find a surprise in a flash of yellow, blue or orange.  I just watched a Western Tanager visit our fountain, a bright spot on an overcast evening.  Last week, it was a yellow parakeet that caught my eye.  And I’m hoping that someone caught the ‘keet so it could be returned home.

We have a natural area about 10 miles northwest as the crow flies, Bobcat Ridge. The City of Fort Collins has set up a camera project on some of the trails to see what wildlife uses the area.  Some surprises in the photos, even for me living in the West most of my life … Wildlife camera: City of Fort Collins.  Enjoy!!

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Another One Home …

Tootsie, Jane & Jerry

Tootsie had the good fortune to find her forever home in late June.  Jane and Jerry from Cheyenne made a special trip down to meet Tootsie at our rescue booth at the Fort Collins Fire Hydrant 5k … it was love at first sight!!  Ten days later, she was on her way to Cheyenne.  I have no doubt that Tootsie is loving her new home and being a part of a family.  Whether she’s ever had that in the past, we’ll never know … but it is certainly her life now.  She’s settled in and is doing quite well … and probably getting a bit spoiled, if the truth be known  lol.

You’ll note the background in the photo is a change up from our usual “family photos.”  That’s because our house is down for the count for the time being.  We’re in the midst of a home update which included taking out all the carpet and putting in hardwood throughout the house.  Between the carpet’s age, all the dogs, and the pukin’ cat, it was either replace it or go to hard surface.  We chose hard surface and haven’t looked back … most likely because there isn’t anything to look back on.  To get to hardwood, we had to completely move everything off the main floor.  With the exception of what’s in the kitchen cabinets, literally everything is either in a box in the basement or sitting in the garage, covered with a sheet.  Even my “kitchen” is in the garage, making cooking a real challenge as it’s either microwave, grill or crockpot.  Today, all the sinks in the house come out as the new counters will be installed on Monday.  Alan keeps reminding me I should be thankful we at least have one functioning sink … in the garage.     :::sigh:::    Obviously, his morning routine to get ready for work doesn’t include a sink being handy!

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A Good Day …

… to be a dog in Colorado!  That was the theme for our rescue booth at the Larimer Humane Society’s Fire Hydrant 5k in Fort Collins on June 11th.  We had a beautiful Colorado day for the event — bright blue skies and light breeze.  Our fosters, Tootsie and Leo, were in attendance putting their best  paw forward.

Our thanks to the foster families who brought them up for the day!  Deb and Elle brought Leo and then participated in the 5k which is a fund-raiser for the Larimer Humane Society.  Kay and Dave were in attendance with Tootsie.

As it turns out, Tootsie met her soon-to-be family at this event … Jane and Jerry who made a special trip down from Cheyenne, WY just to meet Tootsie.  We’ll be posting more on that later!

I received a special treat for the day … Jaime who came up from Denver just so we could visit with her and Mae-Mae!  She’s done well in her new home and is, how shall we say … just a tad bit spoiled  lol.  Some more photos from the day …

Leo, Tootsie and Kay
Dave, Kirby (f/k/a Ruffy) and Alan
Leo ... lookin' for love!

Leo is a 3-year old neutered male who would do best in a home where he had no exposure to small children or grandchildren — older teenagers would be fine.  He is current on vaccinations, tested negative for heartworms, is on a HW preventative, had a rear dewclaw removed, and a microchip implanted.  Leo gets along with dogs and cats alike.  His ideal home would be where he had a canine friend that likes to play.  Leo is also crate trained and house trained.

If interested in Leo, please contact:  ApsoRescue@aol.com.

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2011 Fire Hydrant 5k in Fort Collins …

Once again, we’re signed up to have a rescue booth at the Larimer Humane Society’s Fire Hydrant 5k in Fort Collins on Saturday, June 6th in Edora Park.  More information can be found below ….
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Fire Hydrant 5 Event Information

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Join us for the 21st annual Fire Hydrant 5, the county’s largest family- and canine-friendly 5K pledge walk/run of the season.

Prior to and following the walk/run, join in the fun of the Pet Expo featuring over 40 pet- and family-friendly booths, Fido photos, paw painting, and more!

Fire Hydrant 5 is looking to be bigger and better than ever this year! New this year is Paul and Kama’s Dog Show Mix-Up!  Enter your dog in a host of fun contests – both silly and serious – from best pet/person look-a-like, best pet trick, best doggie kiss, best singing duo and more!

Register as an individual or form a team! Your participation and the additional money you raise through pledges will help us care for the nearly 12,000 animals that come to Larimer Humane Society each year.

Event Day Schedule

The 21st Annual Fire Hydrant 5 will be held Saturday, June 11, 2011 at Edora Park in Fort Colllins.
7:30-8:15 am     Event-day Registration Open
8:00 am-Noon Pet Expo
8:30 am 5K Run start, walkers to proceed behind antique fire truck following run start 
9:00-10:00 am   T-shirt Exchange at Registration Tent; come trade for your perfect size!
10:00-10:30 am 5K Top Finisher awards presentation
10:30-11:30 am Paul & Kama’s Dog Show Mix-Up

How Do I Register?

Registration is now open for the 21st Annual Fire Hydrant 5!  Visit our registration site to register online, or download the event brochure. 

General Pre-registration (through June 9th) – $30/person

Event-day registration $35/person
  
The first 500 participants will receive a Fire Hydrant 5 goodie bag, and the first 700 participants are guaranteed an event t-shirt.
 
Team-Up!
Gather your friends, family and co-workers!  Special team pricing of $20/person is available for groups of six or more.  Teams do not have to stay together on the course—walker/runner combos are welcome!  Teams may register online or via the event brochure. If you are a team captain, you may invite team members through your online team website, or feel free to download the shortened registration form for hand-out to potential team members. All team members must complete a registration form.  For more information about team registration, email our development team today.
  
Cat Nap
Are you unable to participate on event day?  Register to Cat Nap!  Cat Nappers may register online or using the downloadable event brochure, and will enjoy all the benefits of an event-day participant including the ability to raise pledges and form and/or join an event team. Cat nappers will also receive the commemorative 21st Annual Fire Hydrant 5 t-shirt for their support!

Can I Bring My Dog?

Yes! Dogs are welcome at the event, but not required! Come alone or walk/run with your dog. All dogs participating in the walk/run must abide by the following guidelines:
  • They must be leashed at all times
  • They must be current on all required vaccinations and licensing
  • Please use a 6-foot or shorter, non-retractable leash
  • Poop bags will be available; please make sure to pick up after your dog
  • Aggressive dogs are kindly asked to stay at home

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Look for the prayer flags on our canopy!!  We’ll have our two fosters, Tootsie and Leo, in attendance and … just maybe … they’ll have the same success as Jackson did in 2009.  He found his new family at this event!

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It Never Fails …

Tootsie

As my former rescue partner can attest, it never fails that rescue emergencies arise when we’re out of town or getting ready to leave town … my recent trip to San Antonio was no exception.  In day four of the trip, I get an email about an Apso mix in the Canon City shelter who needs to be transported to a rescue NOW or face euthanasia.  A flurry of emails and phone calls ensues; she’s being transported on Thursday to Denver for pick-up at 12:30 p.m.  Great.  My first day back at work and there’s no freakin’ way I can meet the transport at that time.  Recalling Kirby’s family said, “If there’s anything we can do …”, I make a call with fingers crossed.  Kay, ever so gracious, interrupts me pleading my case by saying, “We can go get her!”  Not only did they go get her, but they also set about to get her cleaned up with a bath upon their return home.  And then offered to foster her when it became readily apparent she was a very sweet girl.  What a blessing for both “Tootsie” and rescue!

Tootsie actually arrived with the name of “Stubbie” … she’s missing her left front paw.  Given what I know of anatomy and as confirmed by Doc Sherry, the missing paw is genetic in nature.  In any event, she gets around quite easily and even navigates the doggy door in the foster home.  After much discussion between two vets and two groomers, we’ve come to the conclusion she’s an Apso-Yorkie mix.  From her transfer paperwork and the various emails with the shelter in Canon City, it appears she was a transfer in from a shelter in New Mexico.  Quite the traveled little dog!

She underwent a spay about ten days ago and is healing up quite nicely.  We opted for the laser treatment on the incision — something new at the clinic — which was touted as promoting faster healing.  By all accounts, it is doing just that.  Anything that can help them heal faster is definitely worth the extra $15.

The day after her spay, we got an email saying that one of the other dogs on the transport had come down with parvo.  Definitely not someplace we want to go!  Although Tootsie had a parvo vacc at the shelter in April (probably her first ever in her short life), we scrambled and got her in for a quick booster per Doc Sherry’s recommendation. 

Tootsie is a sweet little dog.  She is very much attached to her foster family and plays with the other dogs in the house.  A quick study, she’s picking up very quickly on the housetraining and sleeps the night through in her crate with nary a peep.  She would probably do best in a home with adults and one other dog.  If interested or would like more information on her, please contact me at:  ApsoRescue@aol.com.

Tootsie is about as loving and low-key as they come … just a great little dog.  In a phone conversation with Kay, she mentioned that while one initially feels sorry for Tootsie and her obvious disability with the missing paw, one quickly realizes that she has known nothing else so her life is “normal” … she gets along just fine, thank you, and does everything that a dog with four paws can.

Our thanks to Kay and Dave for stepping up to the plate to help rescue when Tootsie desperately needed a ride to a new life.  Angels come in many forms …

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Jumping In …

… and trying  to get everyone up to speed.  Lots of things going on in the past month, including a trip to San Antonio to escort Pip to her new home and a major home renovation just getting underway.  I have a feeling that “caught up” will be elusive at best and a return to “normal” will be greatly wished for about day three of the hardwood install.  Never mind the paint and tile work afterwards.

Bella, Mazzi and PippyDo

I flew little Pip to her new home in Texas with Mazzi and Bella as well as meeting up with long-time Shuh Tzu cyberfriends.  Seven of us have been corresponding for years (some for over a decade) and we meet up whenever the opportunity presents itself.  This is the first time so many of us have gathered in one place and it was great to finally meet everyone.  Bella was ecstatic to see her little friend again and a good romp was the first order of business.

Dave with Ruffy, Max and Maggie (l-r)

Just before I headed to Texas, Ruffy (n/k/a “Kirby”) went to his new home with David and Kay in Loveland.  He joins two other Apsos — Maggie and Max — and settled in quite nicely.  Long the queen of the house, Maggie decided Kirby is a little prince and allows him special privileges.  Like sitting on the back of the couch and watching out the same window.  And playing with her toys.  Life is good!!

To top it all off, we have a new rescue coming in this afternoon … Leo … a 3-year old male that doesn’t appreciate  the 3-year old human in the house.  More on him later as we get him vetted and settled into rescue.

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Canine Influenza …

American Lhasa Apso Club Rescue – Colorado Gets Grant to Vaccinate Dogs for Influenza

Petfinder.com Foundation furnishes funds to protect rescue dogs from canine flu.

TUCSON, April 2, 2011 – American Lhasa Apso Club Rescue – Colorado now has help in protecting dogs against canine influenza virus (CIV), a highly contagious disease that spreads easily from dog to dog, especially those in close proximity. The rescue received a grant for the vaccines as part of a Petfinder.com Foundation program to build community immunity against this respiratory infection. The foundation partnered with Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, a global animal health company and makers of the NOBIVAC(r) Canine Flu H3N8 vaccine, to fund the grant.

Because CIV is relatively new, most dogs have not built up immunity to the disease. Dogs can get the disease by being exposed to those that have it, as well as playing with toys or drinking from bowls used by other dogs. People can also unwittingly spread the germ if they come in contact with infected dogs.

“Shelters and rescue organizations are often the first places that new diseases already in the community become evident. Dogs come in from the community and are released back into it, and often move to and from states with confirmed cases,” said Liz Neuschatz, director of the Petfinder.com Foundation. “Canine flu can be a real problem for shelters, where one sick dog can cause an outbreak through an entire facility. We are pleased to be part of this effort to help protect the community by providing canine flu vaccine to American Lhasa Apso Club Rescue – Colorado.”

Dog flu is a growing problem throughout the U.S. It has been confirmed in 35 states so far, but tracking the disease is hard because it is so difficult to diagnose. Dogs are contagious before they show any symptoms. By the time the dog starts coughing, it’s too late. Virtually all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected, and some will get more serious infections, such as pneumonia, which can be fatal.  Dogs that go to doggie daycare, boarding facilities, groomers and shows and are vaccinated for canine cough (Bordetella) are also at risk for canine flu.  Information about canine flu is available at www.doginfluenza.com.

The grant for Building Community Immunity seeks to protect all at-risk dogs in the community, including those in close proximity with other dogs, as is the case with shelters and rescue facilities. It also provides greater assurance to adopting families that their new pets will be healthier and much less likely to be sick or get more serious, and sometimes fatal, infections. The grant further links Petfinder.com member shelter and rescue grant recipients with local veterinarians to protect all adoptable dogs in their care. The program promotes veterinary visits for wellness exams and, when appropriate, the second dose administration of Nobivac Canine Flu vaccine.

About Petfinder.com Foundation:
The Petfinder.com Foundation was created in 2003 to respond to needs of its Petfinder member shelters and rescue groups and to assist them in ensuring that no pet is euthanized for lack of a home. The vaccine grant will help keep dogs healthy and adoptable. 

About Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health:
Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, based in Boxmeer, the Netherlands, is focused on the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of animal health products. The company offers customers one of the broadest, most innovative animal health portfolios, spanning products to support performance and to prevent, treat and control disease in all major farm and companion animal species. Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health; subsidiaries of Merck & Co. Inc., Whitehouse Station NJ, USA. For more information, visit www.intervet.com.

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Our thanks to Petfinder and Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health for awarding us this grant!  We know that CIV has already arrived in Colorado.  Dogs contracting CIV become sick very quickly and require immediate medical attention.