Joe's Foster Dogs

Buddy News

2010-10-31T00:16:00.000-07:00

I finally emailed Shelly who helped me get Buddy shipped to CT for adoption before moving to the UAE. This was by far the most difficult decision for me.

I have hesitated following up with Buddy because i didn't want to hear any bad news. No news is good news right?

Shelly emailed me back and said Buddy had a rough time. He didn't get along with the foster family and moved from foster to foster like a troubled teen.

Shelly brought him back to TN and gave him obedience training. He did well and was adopted by a couple with no kids and is moving to Canada.

Shelly is one of those people who gives and lives with integrity in a way that assumnes everybody lives this way. Well, they do not! For Shelly to bring Buddy back to TN, give him training, and stick with him says it all. They make movies about people like Shelly.

THANK YOU!

...# 23

2010-07-30T13:16:00.000-07:00

Buddy left for Connecticut this afternoon with Last Chance Highway. I had such a hard time finding the right home for him. Thankfully a wonderful woman in middle TN has a rescue and works with another rescue in CT. It came down to the wire before I had to leave for CA and then Abu Dhabi.

this pic is hard to see for me...
he was packed in like a prisoner behind bars in crate #23

He was transported to his new foster home in a van full of dogs. This service specializes in this dog transport. It was sad to see him in his crate with those other dogs. I will miss the Budster tremendously. He was the best dog. Whoever adopts him will be blessed!

what an amazing dog...I can't look at this pic anymore...last time I saw him :(

Bye Buddy!

this little cutey was so adorable...she looked so sad tho before departure

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All About Buddy!

2010-07-06T16:07:00.000-07:00

I thought Buddy found a new home this past Sunday, but it didn't work out. So the search is on!
This blog is now dedicated to finding Buddy the best home!

About Buddy
I fostered Buddy last October. He was in a dog rescue group. Sadly, the group had to close and the owner became very ill. She had to move out of state. I didn't want to give Buddy up to a shelter so I kept him.

He is 55lbs and 13 months old. He needs a fenced in area. 14 guage welded wire fence, five feet tall works best and is very easy to put up. Tractor Supply has this fencing.

He has had ALL shots and is currently up-to-date.
Buddy has had the following medical treatment done in July:
Wellness Exam
Distemper
Adenovirus 2
Parvovirus
Parinfluenza
Coronavirus
Bordetella
Leptospirosis
Rabis

Buddy has made amazing progress over the past several months. It all came down to structure, consistency, and care. Like all dogs he responds to these factors.

Buddy is a bully-collie mix (I think). He is very handsome, energetic, and playful. His personality is all boy. He is fearless and has no hang-ups. He just loves to play all day. He came run at 100mph and slow down to a crawl at night in the house. He sleeps inside on the carpet or his dog bed down pillow.

Buddy LOVES to play with a basketball in the yard. He will chase it until he tires. His tire swing is also a full time preoccupation when he is allowed to be more energetic.

Buddy is great with all types of people. He is hyper at first, but when he calms, fits right in. This is a very intelligent breed and his curiosity allows him to seek out anything new and unexplored.

He has been fixed and is in great health. He eats twice a day, but mostly at night. His bowl movements are consistent.

Buddy gets along with most dogs, but it takes time to get him to adjust. Usually, a dog takes three days to get settled in a new home. Introducing Buddy to a new dog is a separate conversation, but there is a best way of doing it. Same with meeting him for the first time.

I hope Buddy finds a great home. He is the best dog I've had.

If Interested...email Joe at: scampy drums at hot mail dot com (fill in gaps)

Sally Adopted!

2010-06-22T17:13:00.001-07:00

Sally was adopted this past Friday to a very good home. This was a real blessing because she is not a real emotional dog, more like a cat. Sally was my first rescue/foster and I've had her over two years. She was emotionally paralyzed when I got her and to see her rehabilitate85% is tremendously rewarding. It is all about never giving up and allowing the dog to just be who she would eventually be. Incredible learning experience.

Now Buddy needs a good home. Pray for Buddy and the perfect match for him.

Some Buddy Hangin'

2010-05-24T12:41:00.001-07:00

A Little Buddy & Sally

2010-05-13T10:30:00.001-07:00

Might have new owners for both Buddy & Sally. They came over and loved the dogs. I was impressed with their love for dogs and desire to care for them. More to come...

Storm of the Century

2010-05-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

The Nashville area receved record rain. The top three recorded daily totals are now last Sunday, 1975, and last Saurday. That's two days in a row of record rainfall totally up to 20 inches! Here's my yard area.

water coming from the hill beghind the house...carved up my rock driveway

water stereaming down front lawn with driveway rock

front street about to be flooded

Buddy & Sally & Cow

2010-03-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

This is one of twelve cows on my land

Moooooo

Gettin' Warmer!

2010-03-08T10:43:00.000-08:00

The weather is warming up...nice.

Budster looking intense as he locks
onto his basketball hid behind the lamp.

More B-Ball intensity

Took a shower today and forgot to close back door. Got out and walked to get my t-shirt, saw door open and heart fell through my chest. Last time Buddy got loose he went for dogs next door. Not a good scene on a Sunday afternoon. Neighbor was less than happy.

Today, he chased small dogs w/Sally, went after some cows and then came to me on my ATV yelling. This was actually a good thing to happen because I now feel very confident he will not harm another dog. He has anxious energy and runs wild at anything that moves then on to something else.

Sally looking elegant sitting on bed.

Finally got a good pic of her!

2010-03-01T10:42:00.000-08:00

2010-02-18T09:17:00.000-08:00

front porch

front yard

where I walk the dogs

2010-02-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

TN Snow from my porch

Dogs playing

Snow Storm

2010-02-02T13:14:00.000-08:00

Since moving to TN, I've experienced the most rain in the month of October, record rainfall for the year and the coolest winter in 25 years.

Buddy Needs A Home!

2010-01-26T10:43:00.001-08:00

I need to place Buddy to a good home. If you have a contact, email me.
scampydrums a t hot mail com

I would fly him out to the right person. He's such an awesome dog. So full of life
and personality. Very affectionate and is calm inside. Needs exercise and a fenced yard.
He is fine with Sally (see her pic below). I have had no incident of aggression with him
and another dog. He gets anxious around a new dog, but will settle with any other dogs
he has to live with.

Finally Some Good News

2010-01-23T09:23:00.000-08:00

The lady who has a dog rescue is moving from her devil landlord and can take all 27 of her rescue dogs! This is great news. It is sad how many simply do not care about these helpless dogs. I know the country is focused on Haiti as it should be, but there is need on our doorsteps as well.

My evaluation of TN thus far, especially in these smaller towns is many people (men in general) see dogs as a possession. This is not far from seeing wives and kids as possessions. The same goes for horses and the like.

Despite a church on every tenth corner, there seems little penetration of the true gospel into the daily culture. Traditions seem to rule over truth. Men who dare to "feel" are seen as weak, so what we really have is adolescent attitudes and a fear of what others think. But it is even deeper than that, it is an individual fear of being vulnerable.

To those who have been shown mercy, mercy is asked. Blessed are the meek--power under control.

Lost N Found

2010-01-13T13:49:00.000-08:00

Last night I received a call from my neighbor who said one of my dogs was on their porch. Both my dogs were in the house so my stomach tightened. Turns out someone dropped off this adorable little Chow puppy.

WHO leaves a puppy out in the cold of winter? WHO?

I took the dog in. The little boy was cold and scared. He cried and cried until I calmed him down. Then I called Darla at D&C Dog Rescue. This is an amazing woman. She is being harassed by her landlord, he wants to evict her and she is trying to rescue these helpless dogs out of her mobile home.

WHO harasses a woman with three grand kids trying to save dogs? WHO?

Good people need to stand up against fools...and there are so many fools out there!

If you want to help donate anything to help Darla, please do. She is only concerned about the dogs, not herself. She took the little pup last night no questions asked. This is the type of person she is...a very rare person indeed. You can use my PayPal and I will get her the funds direct. She had to close her website due to funds which makes it hard to rescue and adopt.

More on the trouble in Tennessee

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Sally Chilin'

2010-01-04T09:08:00.000-08:00

Sally relaxin' on the couch. Weather really chilled...down to 10 at night. I finnaly turned on the heat in order to keep the pipes from freezing.

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Watch Out for that Tree!

2009-12-28T11:22:00.000-08:00

Out with Buddy Christmas Eve and I hear a . I look up and a tree is falling due to the high winds. Needless to say I didn't see well that night wondering what tree was next. A power line is about 10 feet away and the storage shed as well. Crazy coincidence...2 years ago the same thing happened back in CA...Christmas Eve and a wind storm blew threw cutting a power line that started a fire in my backyard. Bad luck?

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-22T10:46:00.001-08:00

Wishing you all a happy holiday!

Sally, Buddy, Albert, George

Gettin' Cold!

2009-12-10T12:03:00.001-08:00

Starting to get cold in them hills!

The weather took a turn for the cooler recently. The dogs don't seem to mind much, but they sleep inside under blankets.

TN has a failing report card when it comes to animal rights. The Humane Society ranked it the worst state this year. That is NOT good! There is such a need to protect these animals from those struggling with the economy.

I'll admit, when I was teaching and had a steady paycheck and health benefits, I was insensitive to those in need. Now that I am on the other end, I get desperation. However, that does not give justice to those who neglected the 80 horses or 40 dogs that were found in Middle TN this past month in horrid conditions!

There seems a real need to communicating the value of life in this state despite the zillion churches everywhere. I know it is always the handful that get the attention, but the Humane Society did say TN was the worst state this year.

We always need $$ for dog food here if the season should move you for Sally, Buddy, and the other dogs at D&C Rescue in Murfreesboro.

Cold Nights

2009-11-20T08:39:00.000-08:00

We've been having some cold weather as of late. Still no Internet at home so I post at library. This library is the barbershop in Mayberry. Patti the librarian is Floyd the barber. There are the locals and we hang out and laugh a lot. Only in a small town. We are getting a coffee pot and everyone is pitching in for supplies.

Buddy has been extra hyper at night. I hurt my back again and have not been able to walk the dogs daily. I have no bike anymore so I don't ride them. At night, Buddy kinda goes insane. That dog well bounce off the walls if I let him. He doesn't know when to stop.

Sally also was animated. She gets all revved up at night. This morning I heard the dogs running around. This never happens. Buddy is OK with Sally now. Like Albert, Buddy can be with Sally and I have no more concern. So this morning I thought they were chasing a mouse. With the cool weather, there are mice that run around. I've seen two thus far and also killed two inside with traps. Looks like they were just playing and that is a big push forward with Buddy. If he can play with Sally and not get too forceful, I can leave them together during the day.

To all my deep pocket readers, if you want to help with dogs I need money for medication and food. The job market is very difficult out here. I went on another interview and was told flat out, "Why do you want to work for us with your background...aren't you just goning to leave when a better job comes about?" I really think this is why I am not getting hired from jobs I am obviously overqualified to do. So the dog expense adds up with recent tapeworm and flea medication.

That's it...blessings to all!

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Buddy Buddy Buddy

2009-11-09T08:31:00.000-08:00

Good ol' Buddy took a five hour romp in the woods Sunday night. I just got new collars and tags for the dogs but was worried his leash would get snagged on something. At 11pm I heard a noise in the mudd room and there he was...like nothing happened. Similar to kids, dogs have no comprehension the worry factor and energy spent trying to find him in that five hours. I was frazzeled and he wanted to play. Gotta love dogs! My neighbor's were great in lending a helping hand in my search...thanks you guys!
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Buddy & Sally

2009-11-03T15:18:00.000-08:00

Still w/o Internet at new place...so few updates.

First, Sally is doing great. Her wound healed up well and she seems like her old self.

Buddy is getting along with Sally OK...actually Sally nipped at Buddy and he seems fearful of her. That is not good because this can cause him to overcompensate and attack out of fear. Sally comes alive at night and likes to play so eventually I will try to see if they can romp together some.

Buddy has tapeworms and Sally has fleas. I had to buy some meds for them both today. Buddy needs to take four tabs at once and Sally gets one tab that lasts for a month. Another doggy expense. Buddy ate a mouse and maybe that carried fleas...who knows. I do know when it gets cold mice come inside so Budster will keep busy.

Buddy really is a great dog. It grieves my spirit to know dogs like this are put down (killed) because they cannot be controlled.

The animal control in Memphis had to install cameras because of abuse to the animals. This is totally inexcusable and I hope all dog/animal lovers will let their feelings be heard. Also another county here in middle TN had to close its shelter due to funds. This is not good.

That's it for today...

Sally Found!

2009-10-14T21:23:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: 10-16-09
Sally is resting at a friend's house allowing me to keep Buddy (see below posts). She is doing well and finally has peace to heal up. For more pics of her, go HERE.

When I lost Albert & Sally I stopped posting for obvious reasons. I was into a heavy case of the blues.

Then I moved and found Buddy. He was another dog in real need.

Tonight I get home and there’s a call from Williamson County Animal Control… “We’ve got your dog!”

I check my email and there’s an email… “Sally Found…call me or she will die!”

That got my attention.

Since I lost the dogs the best and worst in people have come out. Almost all of it has been “best” but there was an individual looking for a ransom who did not have the dogs but claimed he did. I traced his IP Address. Guess where the email originated from? Cameroon, Africa! I believe in evil and man’s depravity. To tell someone you have their lost dogs, that they are in your living room and you can have them back for money is just plain evil...especially when you do NOT have the dogs at all!

The good people of Fairview, TN have been a blessing. Some of the nicest folks I ever met were part of helping me find my dogs.

Back to Sally…
This poor dog was injured badly. I will spare the details, all to say she was living in real pain and needed surgery to close a bad wound on her right leg. She was living in the woods coming out for food. I guess that’s OK if you’re a raccoon or squirrel, but not a domesticated dog used to sleeping on a carpet floor each night.

I pick her up from animal control tomorrow. If your heart should be moved and you want to help, you can donate on my PayPal account. I am in-between jobs right now and just moved to scale down costs…been at new address three days.

It has been a month since I last saw Sally run off in the woods. Thanks for all the prayers and good thoughts from all my readers. I do believe in that stuff and know there is healing in community. Us animal folks imo are a step above the rest when it comes to caring and giving. I always evaluate a community, city, town, culture on how it treats the innocent, vulnerable, and weak. Yes, this is about dogs and animals, but it is so much deeper than that, it is about the dignity of life.

Off the box now…blessings.

More to come on Sally’s rehab.

Meet Buddy!

2009-10-13T16:36:00.000-07:00

After a long heartbreaking search for both Albert and Sally I decided to foster Buddy.

I moved to a larger place with more land...very rural. A need presented itself and Buddy, most likely a former bait dog, was in dire straits.

The rescue worker is another amazing woman. Know as "Nana" to her grandkids, she has 40 dogs and 20 of them live inside her single....wide....trailer!

Talk about will, passion, and gumption.

Buddy is more than a handful. He is pure adrenaline. Humans pay billions to have this type of energy each year. Buddy has a serious case of separation anxiety which I am working with him on. He has more intensity than Crazy Ivan from long ago.

Buddy is sweet and loves to play 24/7...the pics are rare shots when he pooped out after dinner.

Unfortunately the neighbor's dogs--two mini pinchers--run free. This could be a disaster in wait. I am not sure how long I can keep 'ol Bud, but he's grabbed me heart already. This dog has such a defined personality. At 58lbs, he is a sack of dynamite. That's why laying next to him when he sleeps is so endearing...and unlike Buddy when he wakes.

Miss you guys...

2009-09-24T22:47:00.000-07:00

Lost One Week Now...

2009-09-22T22:08:00.001-07:00

Hard to believe they are gone. No more running around the house or yard. No more barking when the neighbor rides his motorcycle. Just silence. A cold silence in the house.

The hardest part for me by far is the weather. We have had storms one day after another. Where are the dogs? Where is Albert and Sally?

My friends let me borrow their dog for a few days. It has been nice, but the sadness remains.

What is weird is since the dogs have been lost, all these job offers have poured in. Talk about mixed guilt! Having the dogs was a real strain on decision making for me right now. My life is anything but settled. Without the dogs, I am free to go. Two job offers required just that.

IF CHRIST HAD A DOG
I wonder if Christ had a dog
Loyal and loving like mine;
With two silky ears, and a nose round and wet,
and eyes brown and tender that shine.

I'm afraid that He hadn't, because I have read
How he prayed in the garden alone,
For all of his friends and disciples had fled,
Even Peter, the one called a 'stone'.

And oh, I am sure that dog
With a heart so tender and warm,
Would never have left Him to suffer alone,
But, creeping right under His arm,
Would have licked those dear fingers in agony clasped,
And counting all favors but loss,
When they took Him away, would have trotted behind
And followed Him quite to the cross.

Gotta love dogs....

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Sun Call...no go

2009-09-20T21:18:00.000-07:00

Got a call Sunday afternoon saying both dogs were spotted. I went out and drove/walked in the pouring rain for hours...no go. Again, everyone was super cool. Person that called waited in van with family for over 30 mins until I arrived just to show me the house they spotted the dogs walking. There are very good folks out there!

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Dogs Still LOST

2009-09-18T22:05:00.000-07:00

Any irony I am watching LOST reruns. Love this show!!!

I wanted to make a post on the power of women. Since losing the dogs it has almost entirely been women that have lent a helping hand. They have been the ones to call, support, and encourage.

Before moving to TN, I lived in So Calif. I was involved with two rescue groups fostering dogs. Every volunteer was female. If women were not involved, the dogs would all be killed in the shelters. I am still in awe over the care given to each lost, fostered, and adopted dog. It is very humbling actually. If all people had this passion to give and serve, life would be incredible for all!

The first day after the dogs were missing, someone responded to my craigslist Lost & Found ad. As it turns out it was a scammer asking basically for ransom money. I was so upset and angry this clown dragged my hopes for a day I went into Rambo mode and blanketed the town with fliers.

The people I met in this process were amazing. Starting with the park rangers where the dogs were lost to the local town newspaper. When I asked to put up fliers in the local video store, the manager was only too happy to help. Both personal calls I have received came from patrons in this store who saw my flyer walking either in or out of the store.

Even at dinner with good friends the second night the dogs were missing, Leah, my friend's 14yo daughter wanted to go out and look for the dogs after we ate. That was a blast of encouragement only a kid could give--pure and reckless..."Let's go look for them now!"

A man named Ray did call me tonight saying a lab killed a skunk on his lawn yesterday morning. That's Albert for sure! He was mad, but when he went to the local video store, he saw one of my fliers and called. So it isn't a lost cause for "dudes"...just a long way to catch the ladies when it comes to having a heart that cares and the willingness to do something about it.

It's been said many times and in many ways, but it takes a crisis to see people come together and break down social walls. Dogs have this "thing" about them that brings out the best in people like a wonderful common language we all share.

.

2009-09-17T16:57:00.000-07:00

Sad day...lost the dogs 9 - 16

UPDATE 9-18
Just got a call...saw both dogs this morning, one killed a skunk on his front lawn. That had to be Albert! lol Hope still alive.

.

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2009-09-13T01:46:00.000-07:00

2009-09-10T13:40:00.001-07:00

Just Friends...

2009-09-05T12:30:00.001-07:00

2009-09-02T01:28:00.000-07:00

Fires Back Home...again!

2009-08-29T22:32:00.000-07:00

As a kid, I do not remember fires every summer at the same time.

Since 2002 or so there has been summer fires in So Calif., many of which are arson. When I taught school, evacuations took place and school canceled for three days one year.

Spoke to my friend in Pasadena and he said it looks like a war zone. My sister and folks said the air quality is so poor, anyone with asthma needs to evacuate the area.

See my post from 2008 when I lived in CA.

Contrast this to TN where everything is green, green, green. I have seen it rain more in eight months here in TN than in eight years back in Calif....wait, make that about twelve years. Not since El Nino hit So Cal in 1998.

KUDOS for DONATIONS

2009-08-27T23:34:00.000-07:00

A big THANKS to all who have donated this year. Obviously a tough year for many financially, so it means all the more.

Unless specified, donations go towards food and medical supplies first. This has been a horrible year for ticks. I personally have been blasted by Chiggers--the evil bugs.

DOGZ RULE!

They are amazing creatures...a real blessing. I am still hunting out all dog fighters and puppy mill degenerates. This is where the donations really help. Some recent activity has been horrific.

Again...we appreciate the help.

Ruff-ruff, bow-wow, arf, and all the rest...

2009-08-26T11:15:00.000-07:00

2009-08-25T05:35:00.001-07:00

2009-08-23T01:07:00.001-07:00

If you want to quiet your soul...listen to Thomas Newman

Off to Deer Run

2009-08-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

I am volunteering at Deer Run Retreat Center locally. This has to be the best kept secret in Middle Tennessee.

I hope to work at a facility like this soon. Albert loves walking here.

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TN Good, CHIGGERS Bad

2009-08-22T13:03:00.001-07:00

Tennessee has been good, but the chiggers are awful.
The itch factor is horrible. I swim in hydrocortisone.

I will never walk the dogs in grass again if I can avoid it.

.

2009-08-17T18:12:00.000-07:00

White County won't ban pit bulls

Megan Trotter
Herald-Citizen Staff
Tuesday, Aug 11, 2009

SPARTA -- The White County Commission Monday night declined to ban pit bulls, citing that singling out that breed to ban was impossible on the county level.

The meeting room in the White County Courthouse was bursting at the seams with concerned citizens as the commission met to discuss a proposed ban on pit bull dogs in the county.

Recent attacks on citizens by dogs that were part pit bull, along with officers being attacked by the dogs belonging to law violators, prompted Sheriff Oddie Shoupe to bring the problem forward to the commission during its last meeting in July.

County Attorney Gary Dodson told the commission the proposal to ban specific breeds would not be legal unless the county was zoned properly.

However, officials admitted that there was still a vicious dog problem in the community that needed attention.

"We've already answered 372 calls this year. Last year it doubled that. That is $40-50,000 a year that you as tax payers are paying my department to go out and make these calls," said Shoupe.

It was suggested that the people gathered in protest of banning pit bulls get together to discuss ideas for diminishing the problem, as well as deciding what types of laws they wanted to pass. The County Commission requested they bring these ideas back to the next meeting.

"I'm not for banning dogs," said Shoupe. "I have been trying for three years to get this dog situation, this animal situation under control. We have a chance here to do it. These guys are listening to you. They'd be more than glad to help. Let's do it legally, the right way, and help one another and stand together as a group, without vigilantes."

The Sad Report

2009-08-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

The penalty is a JOKE for these acts of evil towards these innocent dogs...first class misdemeanor and $4000 fine up to a year in jail.

If these stories tug your heart and you desire to donate...Paypal me and I will get it to the rescue groups in TX and then let you know where the funds went to specifically.

600 Dogs Seized in
Kaufman Co.

Published : Tuesday, 11 Aug 2009, 5:51 PM CDT

PRAIRIEVILLE, Texas - The Humane Society and sheriff’s deputies seized more than 600 dogs and about 15 cats Tuesday afternoon from a suspected puppy mill in Kaufman County.

The society said it started investigating the kennel, which is located near Prairieville just north of Mabank, when someone came to them asking for dog food donations. Representatives visited and found poor living conditions and malnourished dogs.

The animals seized Tuesday were examined to determine which ones needed medical attention.

The majority of them are Chihuahuas, poodles and other small-breed dogs.

Deputies said the kennel’s owners have not yet been arrested or charged.

Prairieville is about 50 miles southeast of Dallas.

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500 Dogs Taken from 'Puppy Mill'

FORT WORTH, Texas - More than 500 dogs and puppies have been taken from what officials call a large puppy mill in Montague County .

According to the North Texas Humane Society, more than 50 volunteers worked through the holiday weekend to prepare for the arrival of the animals on Tuesday.

The canines will be temporarily housed at a warehouse donated by Chesapeake Energy.

Other companies have donated services, including connecting plumbing, electricity and air conditioning in the warehouse, officials said.

Additionally, PetSmart donated food and supplies for the animals.
To donate money and for adoption information, contact the Humane Society of North Texas at 817-332-4768 or log onto www.hsnt.org .

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150 Dead Dogs Found in Freezers

Published : Friday, 24 Jul 2009, 2:32 PM CDT

DEARBORN, Mich. - Police say about 150 dead dogs were found packed in freezers in the basement of a Michigan home where more than 110 live dogs, mostly Chihuahuas, were rescued this week.

Investigators in the Detroit suburb of Dearborn say the two-story house is littered with feces and trash. The 54-year-old man who lives there has been taken to a hospital for observation. Police say the man appeared confused and disoriented.

Dearborn Police Chief Ronald Haddad said Friday that 112 live dogs have been removed from the home, and police believe about five more may be hiding inside. He says a criminal investigation is under way.
The rescued dogs were taken to a shelter, where many residents have donated food and filled out pet adoption applications.

"All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing."
--Edmund Burke

2009-08-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

2009-08-09T08:55:00.000-07:00

Skunk-A-Lisious

2009-08-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

Decided to let Albert walk on an extra long leash. He explored and was all over hills. On the way home I noticed a skunk smell. I have been noticing this at home as well...thought it was a skunk outside. Got home...smell still there. It wasn't so glaring that as soon as Al walked into the room I immediately noticed...but after a few seconds...EWWWWW, SKUNK SMELL.

I went online yesterday and tried a formula;
32 oz of Hydrogen Peroxide
Cup of Baking Soda
Dish Washing Liquid---MIX

So I take Al to the car wash, wash him down and let sit for 5-10 mins then spray him down. When I got home...there was still a faint skunk smell. I washed him again in the shower, getting all the dish washing liquid out (that stuff really penetrates) and let him dry off.

Hopefully he will be skunk free tomorrow!

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My Cabin

2009-07-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

2009-07-26T10:38:00.000-07:00

Ruff Ruff Pics

2009-07-23T23:44:00.001-07:00

2009-07-18T08:31:00.000-07:00

This is my type of dude...gotta shake the view from below with a little creativity. I do know firsthand that this guy did not make this work the first time...you have to be willing to get a little hurt before you can make people smile!

2009-07-12T12:06:00.000-07:00

2009-07-06T18:55:00.001-07:00

2009-07-04T05:28:00.000-07:00

Meet Apollo

2009-06-29T20:39:00.000-07:00

Apollo is my friend Leah's new doggie.
She luvs her baby boy.

.

Thinking of George

2009-06-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

This is a favorite memory of George...it was a hot summer day and he just loved the cool pavement under the carport.

Last night I had the strongest George urge since he passed.

Don't know where these impulses come from...but I looked at some old video and pics...had a very good cry...and went to bed.

I still really miss Georgie Boy

.

Al Tired

2009-06-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

Albert has to be the most secure dog on the planet.
He has no fear about anything.
He does get a lot of affection and enjoys getting petted.
He is the opposite of Sally which is a good pairing.

.

Workin' Dayz

2009-06-14T17:00:00.001-07:00

Been working 7 days a week...dogs doing well. I keep Albert on a long leash centered so he can get to most of the back yard and under shelter if it rains. I need to finish yard so he can't dig free...half way down and need more funds...but when I complete, he won't have to be on leash when I am gone.

2009-06-08T07:17:00.000-07:00

2009-06-03T18:45:00.000-07:00

Gotta Luv Dogzzzzz

2009-05-30T06:44:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh, nothing like coming home after
a 10 hour work day to find this!

click on pics for full destruction view

Let's see..
* blue blanket from the bedroom
* black shoes from the bedroom
* shirts from the bedroom
* socks from the bedroom
* books from the coffee table
* cushions from the couch
* blanket from the couch

Did I mention BOOKS!

Yes...the LIBRARY book at $27.95 thank you Sally!

My Memoir to McCheyne...favorite old book chomped

The price of books? $75
The price of love for your hunting and gathering dog?
PRICELESS

Gotta luv dogzzzz

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Poptarts

2009-05-26T18:24:00.001-07:00

myspace layouts

2009-05-26T05:26:00.000-07:00

2009-05-25T02:22:00.000-07:00

Dog Fighting & Individual Involvement

2009-05-20T09:30:00.000-07:00

This dog was wounded in a dogfight.
He got help, but many others are not so lucky.

I have been conducting informal research on the topic of dog fighting. Some of the responses are discouraging, but worth looking at closely.

Human nature being what it is makes people rather predictable. If you are at a public park on a Saturday afternoon with dozens of people having fun on the grass field and you want to throw a ball with your kid, then look down and see a bag of Doritos.

Do you pick it up, especially knowing the trash can is about 3 feet away?

Most people do not. They just go about their activity and if they have a sensitive conscience, do a rapid mental rationalization that goes as follows;

That's what they pay the public park utilities for...I pay my taxes...everyone liters...that's just life...who cares?

Then, someone picks up the bag of Doritos. Why? Out of all the people in the park, why did THIS person stop to pick up?

These people interest me.

Now, substitute Doritos for just about anything else, in this case dog fighting.

Some of the feedback I've received when asking for suggestions about getting involved are as follows;

1. Be careful...these guys are serious about their sport
2. Millions of dollars can be at stake for these fights
3. Contact the law
4. Don't get involved, it's not worth it
5. There is a very wide spectrum of beliefs on what animal abuse is so for the most part I mind my own business...

Below are some interesting and excellent ways to get involved...even if you have never seen or heard of fights in your local area.

Taking Action to End Dogfighting

Doghfighting Fact Sheet

Sample Letter 1

Sample Letter 2

Oh, btw, I've spent most of my life looking the other way...which doesn't mean my conscience was numb...it wasn't...I was just lazy.

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Why Do I Get Involved in Animal Rescue

2009-05-15T15:12:00.000-07:00

This was written by a journalist (author unknown) but it summarizes well why those in rescue go for it.

As a journalist, I decided to go to the animal, and interview some of the “inmates”. I wanted to know what it was like in there from their perspective. What follows is not for the faint of heart.

Animal Shelter I entered the building, and one of the workers accompanied me to the holding area. This is where dogs are kept before they are allowed up for adoption. IF they are allowed up for adoption. If the dogs are found to be aggressive in any way, euthanasia is employed. Fortunately, if “fortunately” is the word to be used here. In this establishment, and they use lethal injection, not a gas chamber.

The shelter worker led me past a big steel door that says “Employees Only”. “What is in there?” I asked. From the look he gave me, I knew that this is where dogs go in, and never return.

We moved on to a row of kennels. The dogs were barking loudly, there was the acrid smell of urine and feces, and a feeling of despair seemed to permeate the room.

“Go ahead,” the worker said. “They’re all yours.”

PetePitbull

I looked into the first kennel, and saw only the back of a medium sized dog who was curled up in the corner of his kennel, shivering. He was mostly white, with some black spots. “Hello?” I said. “May I come in?” He lifted his head, as though it weighed more than he could bear. When he looked at me, I could see he was a Pitbull. His eyes were gentle, but filled with grief.

“Enter,” was all he said.

I stepped in, closing the gate behind me. He put his head back down, facing away from me. I crouched down a few feet away.

“My name is Pete. Petey my Master called me,” he said, still not looking at me.

“Why are you here Pete?” I asked.

“I am here because Master cannot afford to move. I am here because someone with power said I am vicious, and a killer. Someone who never met me. Master took me for a walk one day, and some lady started to scream when she saw me.

I got frightened, and barked at her. The dog police came, and they took me away. I have been with Master for 10 years. The last time I saw him, he just held me and cried. He kept telling me he was sorry. I worry for him. Whatever will he do without me?” Pete shivered even more.

A tear slid down my face. I am supposed to remain objective, but this was wrong. So wrong.

“Thank you Pete.” I said. He said nothing as I got up and left his kennel.

Popper

Border CollieThe kennel next to Pete’s held a very young looking dog. Pure Border Collie by my guess. He stood on his hind legs, looking at me through the gate.

“Hello. My name’s Popper. He tilted his head. “Are you here to take me home?”

“No, I’m sorry,” I replied. “But I would like to talk with you.”

“Sure. What would you like to talk about?”

“Popper, how did you come to be in this place?” I asked.

Popper dropped down from the gate, with a perplexed look on his face. He walked to the back of the kennel, then back to the front. I noticed he had one blue eye, and one brown. He was quite beautiful. His black and white coat was shiny and thick.

“I am not certain WHY I am here. I think maybe my family will come back for me. They bought me when I was only 6 weeks old. I remember they said how smart Border Collies are, and how it would be so easy to train me. They were very excited at first. The little ones played with me all the time. But the trouble with little Masters is, they refuse to stay in a group. I constantly had to nip their heels to keep them together.”

He looked confused. “Why won’t they stay in a group?” he sighed. “So I did what I thought I should do. I am not quite sure why the little ones screamed when I did my job, but they did, and the Masters got very angry at me. They also got angry when I had to relieve myself, and did so in the house. I am not sure where they expected me to go. All they said was that I was the smartest breed in the world, and I should just KNOW better. Then they left me in the yard for a month or so. I got bored a lot, and I dug holes in the grass. The next thing I knew, the Masters brought me here.”

Popper jumped back up on the gate, his white paws protruding through the links. He looked at me with his lovely eyes, and asked “Will you please let them know I want to come home? Please tell them I promise I will be good?”

“I will Popper,” I said.

SpartanRottweiler

My heart was breaking. I was beginning to regret coming here, but their stories had to be told. I moved along. The next dog I saw looked to be easily 100 lbs., a Rottweiler . He was handsome indeed, except for the scars on his face and back. He tilted his head, and looked me right in the eyes.

“Hello. Who are you?” he asked.

“I am a reporter,” I replied. “May I speak with you for a little while?”

“Most certainly. My name is Spartan. You ca n come in, I won’t bite,” he said.

“Thank you Spartan. I will.”

I entered his kennel, reached out and stroked his giant head. He made a loud grumbling noise, and closed his eyes.

“Spartan, why are you here?”

Before he could answer my question, he was suddenly in the grip of a nasty coughing spasm. It sounded painful.

“Please excuse me,” he said when it passed. “Kennel cough. It seems all of us who come in here get it. “Why am I here? Well, about two years ago, I was born in the backyard of some person I can’t even recall. I had 11 brothers and sisters. I recall a day when a big man came and gave that person some money, and took me away from my mother. They had to chain her up, as she was very angry that he took me. They chained her and beat her.

I came to know the man by the name of Jim. I overheard him telling his friends that I would grow up to be big and mean like my mother. But as I grew older, all I wanted to do was play and be friends wit h everyone. Jim said I needed to be taught how to be mean, so he chained me up in the yard. No more house for me, he said, I was too spoiled.

When people came by to visit, I was so happy to see them. I wanted them to come and play. But that made Jim angry, so he beat me with sticks and chains. When he came near, I would roll onto my back so he would know I wasn’t a bad dog. That made him beat me more.” Spartan’s eyes clouded with grief. “Then he brought me here.”

I reached out and stroked Spartan’s massive gentle head once more. “I am so sorry Spartan. Some people are just plain evil.” I gave him a kiss and left his kennel.

As I walked away, Spartan called out, “What will happen to me, nice lady?”

I shook my head. “I can’t say Spartan. Maybe someone kind will come and get you. We can only hope.”

Patsy

Jack Russell TerrierI walked a little further down. I could see a shape moving at the back of the next kennel. “Hello?” I called out. Suddenly the shape lunged at the gate in a fury, barking and gnashing its teeth. I stumbled backwards, and crashed into an adjacent kennel. The other dogs began barking loudly and jumping at their gates.

“Don’t go near her,” a small female voice came from behind me. “She’s mad.”

I gathered myself back together, and saw a little Jack Russell Terrier behind me.

“Thanks for the warning,” I was still trembling. Across the way, the other dog, apparently a Husky and German Shepherd cross, was glaring at me, lips curled back revealing brown stained teeth. Her ribs and hips showed through her dull, matted grey coat. The little dog invited me into her kennel, and I gladly went in.

“Who are you?”

“My name is Patsy.” The little brown and white dog held a paw up to the gate in greeting.

“My owner surrendered me. She said she wanted a cute little dog like the one on the TV show, Frasier. She didn’t bother to look into the type of dog I am.” Patsy heaved a sigh.

“I suppose she expected me to just lie about and only need a short walk each day, just like Eddie , but my energy was so high that I needed to run and play.” She glanced at her surroundings. “Now I am here. I suppose it could be worse. I could be like.her.” Patsy looked towards the still growling dog across the way.

“What happened to make her so vicious?” I asked.

“From what we could gather,” she replied. “she was found tied in a back yard. She only had a three foot chain. Some days there was no water. Rarely was there any food. One day a nice neighbor came by and brought her some meat. By then it was too late. She was already mad. She broke off her chain, and bit the poor man badly. We know she will be going behind the steel door. I am sad to say, I think it will be best. Perhaps then she will know some peace.”

Just then, the door at the end of the building opened, and a woman stepped inside. All the dogs began to bark wildly, then one by one, they went quiet.

I whispered to Patsy, “Who is that? Why have all the dogs gone quiet?”

Patsy breathed deeply through her little nose, and closed her eyes. “SHE is a Rescuer. Can’t you smell it?” she asked.

“Smell what?” I was confused.

“Compassion. Love. Sorrow. It emanates from her pores. She is here for one of us, but nobody knows who just yet.” Patsy looked hopeful.

The Rescuer moved from kennel to kennel, looking at each dog. I sat quietly watching. I could see tears in her eyes as she made eye contact with each one. She stopped at Spartan’s cage and spoke quietly to him..

“No more beatings my man. No more. You are coming with me.. From here on in, it’s all going to get better.”

The Rescuer produced a leash, opened the kennel door, and took Spartan away. As he walked beside her, his little stubby tail wagged with delight.

Patsy sighed again. I could see the disappointment in her eyes, and it grieved me. They all had the same look, as they watched The Rescuer depart.

“I am so sorry Patsy,” I said in a whisper. “But you are a little dog, and everyone loves little dogs. I am convinced you will be rescued soon.” Patsy’s brown eyes twinkled at me, a little bit of hope returning.

I had heard and seen enough. I needed to tell people how it was for these unfortunate creatures. They were all here through no fault of their own. I stood to leave. I passed by many other dogs I did not interview, looking at each one, wishing I could take them all home with me and give them the love they deserved. I stood by the door taking one last glance back, when it opened, and one of the pound workers came in. His face was drawn and sad. He walked by without a word, and stopped at Pete’s kennel. I heard him take a deep breath, then he paused, and opened the kennel door.

The words were muffled, but I am sure I heard him say “I’m sorry old boy.”

He came out, with Petey in tow. The old dog’s head hung down in resignation, and they both disappeared behind the big steel door.

Dog Fighting

2009-05-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

It is sad that I recently found out dog fighting is going on in the next county over from me.

It's outrageous to think young men get a high on this.

The locals testify that police do nothing which is even more an outrage.

So I am going to do something and if you have any ideas, let me know. In today's age, the Internet allows us to put a magnify glass on parts of the world that would rather remain in hiding.

I have a few specific ideas and am going to follow through. Let me know what you think as well.

UPDATE 1
I wrote a pretty strong letter yesterday to the city council and Police Chief. These folks need to get it together. It's 2009! Bottom line is good people need to voice up or the bad beat up.

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2009-05-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

2009-05-05T22:49:00.001-07:00

Dog Whisperer & Puppy Mills

2009-05-03T14:49:00.000-07:00

Cesar Millan is taking his celebrity and doing more good here as he discusses puppy mills.

Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a rescue from a puppy mill with the dedicated staff of Last Chance for Animals, which you will see on an episode of Dog Whisperer. In my career, I have dealt with many, many troubled dogs that come from puppy mills, but this was the first time I had witnessed the conditions firsthand. These courageous men and women had a lot of experience with the physical rescue of these animals, but I was there to help them start the psychological rescue from the moment they took the dogs out of the cramped quarters.

When I moved to TN, I had no idea the largest puppy mill raid in the US was about 15 miles away! I drive 2000 miles away from Hollywood, celebrities, the "famous"...and here I am, a drive away from another celebrity...of the horrible kind...the witch from Lyles, TN

If you are a fan of The Dog Whisperer, you know who Daddy is...here's his Facebook page.

(click on image)

2009-05-02T17:44:00.000-07:00

Doggles

2009-04-30T16:27:00.000-07:00

Normally I don't go in for these "Paris Hilton" type dog garments, but in this case, Doggles are very practical and just look cool!

I drive with Albert a lot, like I did George, and he always sticks his head out the window at speeds up to 70mph. Why not protect his eyes from debris and the wind.

Best price here--free shipping and no handling fee

.

2009-04-29T22:09:00.001-07:00

Al Chilin'

2009-04-28T06:07:00.000-07:00

2009-04-28T03:57:00.000-07:00

ST GEORGE

2009-04-26T17:14:00.000-07:00

I got off work this morning at 7am and on the drive home noticed a gorgeous Episcopal Church. I have seen it many times and decided to stop. Service is at 8am so I pulled into the park lot. I walk in and find a pew. Big church, high ceilings...stunning.

As I look at the bulletin I notice the name of the church

ST GEORGE'S Episcopal Church!

God is cool

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Albert Stitches Out

2009-04-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

Al got his stitches out Friday. He is doing well.

There will be a bulge in the side of his neck from muscle damage, but he is fine.

Thanks for all the kind emails. Those who donated some, thank you as well. I still have about $350 to pay off the bill, so any help is welcome at this point in life.

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Bedham Farms

2009-04-25T12:40:00.000-07:00

Go here to see Jon Katz books on dogs

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Remember Crazy Ivan?

2009-04-21T15:13:00.000-07:00

click on image for full view

Remember Crazy Ivan? I fostered him last year in August.
At a adopt-a-pet in West Hollywood, someone was interested.
Turns out to be one of the better adoptions.

Meet Ivan

Crazy Ivan--New York Minute

He's now called Boots...

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Pretty Boy Al

2009-04-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

Albert Lookin' Good...
Stitches come out Friday

.

2009-04-17T09:55:00.000-07:00

This is Albert's wound right after the attack.
WARNING : Do not click on image or you will
get a larger view

Albert Friday healing well

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Albert Recovering Well

2009-04-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks again to all the emails and private messages about both George and Albert.

Dogs are amazing...Albert has weathered all of this so well. He just moves along like nothing happened. He has slept more than usual and always wants to run. I think he misses the exercise.

Sally has adjusted OK as well. There is a big void in the house, and in a strange way, this is something I need to experience. The whole ordeal has made me much more sympathetic and empathetic towards others.

My current neighbor has cancer and the George incident has allowed me to feel the pain of his wife and family more deeply. In a few words, "I get it"...yet not to the extent of a wife and children towards their father.

What George taught me is quality over quantity. I only had the dog for about eight months, but it was a 24/7 kinda thing. I have known people for 20 years and not felt as close.

There is a spacial community amongst dog lovers.

As an old neighbor's dad once remarked, "I don't trust people that don't like dogs!"

George Remembered

2009-04-12T23:41:00.001-07:00

Wolf and lamb will graze the same meadow,
lion and ox eat straw from the same trough,
...Neither animal nor human will hurt or kill
anywhere on my Holy Mountain," says God. (Isaiah 65:25)

Since I had to put down George on Friday April 10th at 3:30pm, I have experience wailing episodes.

I have been in dog rescue for just over a year. Prior to that, I really wasn’t into dogs at all. Never thought about them, was never around them. I really didn’t like my dog as a kid much and felt almost no emotion when he died. I happened to be away for that summer back in college and after 14 years, Scampy just couldn’t hold on any more. I never shed a tear for my childhood dog.

My neighbors back in California had a dog named Joey. One day I saw Caroline running to her Nissan truck with Joey in her arms. He was about to live his last day. This couple had no dogs for over four years and then got Cooper, a Cocker Spaniel.

I didn’t care for Cooper at first because of his high pitched, wailing bark…especially at my bedroom door at 5am!

Over the years, when they would come home from work, they greeted the dog by calling him, “boy” or “my baby boy.” For some reason this annoyed me. I thought to myself that this is yet another couple who have no kids and are humanizing their dog. The dog has now become a child substitute.

Life can be funny.

All these years later, I have joined the club.

During my George wailing sessions, I cry out for “my baby boy.”

It usually starts like this. I am doing my thing in the house or when I am driving and a memory will hit out of the blue. The memory quickly turns to emotion. Like being sick and feeling a heave coming on, I can either try to hold it in or let it fly. In this case, I let it fly and take it wherever it goes.

Let me say this here…the difference between men and women in this one particular area of life is like salt and pepper, cuffs and links, apples and oranges.

As a man, crying as a result of emotions is much harder than getting bit by a dog and dealing with physical pain. As I type, I still have swollen fingers from the three recent dog bits, a back tailbone injury, some type of cough and chest thing that won’t go away, a neck pain, the pressure of starting a new job, and difficult boss. This I’m used to!

I’ve experienced several wailing sessions. I thought I was over them until tonight. I was watching TV with Albert and Sally and felt tired. I got up to go to bed and the first wave of memories hit me. I thought about George’s face when I walked around the hall corner, George sitting on my bed, alert with ears up. I always thought he looked so regal and dignified like this.

Now the memory turns to emotion. This is the difference between George and almost all other emotions. Rather than the “angry” re-route taking over, the emotion of sadness blasts through to tears. If I stay in the emotion, it grows like a volcano.

As a younger man, I would never allow this to happen…but then again, maybe the loss of a pet would have trumped trying to control the emotion. The fear of “where is this going to take me” would almost always take over.

Not this time.

Rather, I just let it flow and allowed the emotion to rule over the rational. I cried for what seemed an hour, probably much less, and kept wailing, “I miss my baby boy” over and over again. The tears eventually turned to laughter. This is the amazing turn of events.

In the past I would have edited or controlled the emotions. Because of the powerful loss of a dog, I did not and experienced the pain turn to joy.

Sure, I read about this thing, heard testimony from others, but it was as impactful as seeing a lady cry over the loss of her baby at a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles. I felt for her, but it was in between bites of my Subway sandwich before I flipped the channel to watch an episode of King of the Hill.

This is what I call the head-heart gap. Knowing and experiencing can be two totally different realities. I think many men think they “know” because of the rational, but they do not. It is like looking at a picture of a sunny beach verses lying in the hot sand at Malibu. Maybe this is why men are so drawn to pornography. It is clearly not reality, but they make it reality in their mind and live in fantasy.

Who knows how many “George moments” I will have? All I know is I am not going to edit them, but let them flow out of me to dignify the experience.

God will work His way through all of this and teach me what Jesus experienced as He took the pain of mankind into Himself on the Cross. Jesus did not run from the pain, but embraced it fully. This was not an intellectual or academic theological discussion, it was true reality internalized.

Just my thoughts for the day.

.

Albert Recovering

2009-04-11T12:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the single most difficult day of my life. The circumstances went as follows;

Tornado conditions in Middle TN...at work, 4:25am I slipped and fell on my tailbone coming in from the rain to check on George in the car. I drove to work with George every night.
I drive home early knowing I have no medical insurance and wonder what I will do. I already had a ruptured disk and now this. It is raining harder than I've ever seen on the freeway and I know Albert is outside because when I went to work the weather was fine. Welcome to the Mid-West where weather changes and in CA weather remains the same...always!
George ate half of my car seat before I left. The thunder scared him. He was agitated on the ride home the first 15 mins, them calmed down and slept on my lap like usual.
When I get home, I immediately go to get Albert out of the rain and George lunges on him. I fight to pull him off by chocking him and then slip on the mud. George pulls free and then immediately goes back at the neck. Albert seemed fine afterwards, but I was overwhelmed at this point. This was the second attack this week and I was bit three times during three different incidents, one involving the neighbor's dog that got loose.
I get George separated, bring Albert inside and notice a huge gashing hole in the side of his neck. I immediately Google the closest animal hospital and believe it or not, there is one a mile away in this small town. I call the emergeny number and wake the Dx up. He tells me to cover the wound until 8am when they open.
Albert needs surgery that cost $500.
I drive home knowing George has to go down. I call the Dx a few hours later on no sleep and hearing George snoring in the next room make a scheduled appointment to euthanize him the same day.
I walk into the bedroom, see him sleeping, and start weeping. I know I only have an hour left with him. My mind floods with happy memories. I cry like thunder
I drive to the pet hospital, get out of my car, look over at him and he is wagging his tail anticipating a walk. I cry again. I finally get to the door and as he walks into the exam room, he is thinking he is in for a good time. I will never forget leaving him in that condition knowing it was the last time I would ever see King George again.
That day I am restless and empty. I have to work the night shift for the first time solo. Of all nights to work solo. I want to call in sick, but I walk by faith. God provided with my co-worker Pam. She helped me. I will always be grateful for her and Judi's call to me to see how I was doing.
During the drive to work, I cry the whole way thinking of how George would poke his head out the window and I'd see the wind blow up his cheeks. I always laughed out loud at this. My head played tricks on me feeling George was at home. I felt confused.

I do praise God in all of this and seek His perspective. He gives life and takes it away. He allows for such intense emotions. It is Easter and what a perfect way for hope in Christ...that this would is passing away. The pain and suffering is only temporal for those in Christ. I believe this and my heart was deeply saddened, but I have hope. I feel like being alone now for a time.

As a "feeler" personality, without Christ, I would be a goner. Life is too devastating to me. I feel things too deeply and can get paralyzed. Faith is all I have.

Yet, even with faith, I am sad and still tearful. I miss my big boy.

The Dx and staff at the White Oak Animal Hospital were fabulous. Thank you very much for what you did.

RIP GEORGE

2009-04-10T12:22:00.001-07:00

George
Put to rest 04/10/09

It wasn't your fault boy...the wages of sin is death.

Whoever put you in those fights when you were just a pup is accountable for your hairless trigger to fight. Their ripple sin is still reaping consequences today all these years later.

I loved rubbing your chubby belly at night when you were sleeping and hearing you snore so loudly.

Your were a good dog.

I loved you George.

Asking For Help

2009-04-10T03:50:00.000-07:00

This morning George attacked Albert and tore a hole in his neck.

I have to take him to the vet and just don't have the cash to pay for it.

Any PayPal assistance is a great help...thanks!

George attacked Albert 2x this week. I've been bitten three times and of all days...I slipped at work after a thunderstorm and landed on my tailbone.

I come home to get Albert out of the rain and George locked onto him. Then I finally got him off and he locked again.

Sadly, this is it, I have to put George down after 8 months of trying to rehabilitate him. A sad day indeed.

Joe

===========

Update 9:13 am CST
Albert is in surgery now and I think he will be OK. He really got gashed and the right side of his neck was tore apart. I will be straight up to all dog lovers that want to help. It will cost around $500. Many of you have been generous to date and to ask for help again is probably not quite right.

The worst part of all this is I have to put George down. I love this dog and travel in the car with him daily. We go everywhere together. He goes to work with me at night and sleeps in the car. I've already cried for about two hours thinking about this, but I have no other choice. I've already been bitten three times this week alone in fights. I have scars on both arms because George attacks Albert and then Albert bites me trying to save him and get them free.

George is fine with me. He has never made any attempt to bite me, it is just his trigger with other dogs. 95% of the time he is fine, but that 5% is really adding up. Nobody will ever adopt him.

The irony of all this is only just yesterday, with the help of a friend, did I decide to put both Sally and Albert up for adoption with running ads! I was going to keep George alone.

Then I slip and fall this morning at 4:25am at work, fall on my tailbone hard. I felt faint, filled out a work injury report, drank some juice and left early. I get to my car to find George literally ate half my front seat. The thunderstorm scared him and got him agitated. I drive home worried that I won't be able to cover my shift this evening, get home, park the car, and BOOM...George jumps on Albert.

This was one of the only times I broke up the fight and didn't get bit.

Albert is out of surgery and should be home by 4:30pm today.

===========================================
Update 12:42 pm CST
Hey...no way this day could get worse right?

HOW ABOUT A TORNADO WARNING!!!

The city warning siren is going off now
Thunder and lightning on steroids

You know it's bad when the radio station goes to
all weather call ins from around every county.

Gotta love life

Update 04:13 pm CST
Albert is back from surgery and healing. He is still groggy. The wound was much deeper than expected and he has a drain tube inserted which will have to be removed next week.

I experienced the longest drive of my life. I drove 2000 miles to TN in a flash, but the one mile to drop off George for his final rest was longer than my lifespan. These dogs really get a grip on ya!

I'm Glad I'm Not A Supermodel

2009-04-08T12:32:00.000-07:00

How's my week going?

Well...
I got bit by my dog Sat in the leg when a local dog was running loose and they got into it.
I got bit by Sally taking two ticks out of her
I got bit today when George attacked Albert in the kitchen as I pulled them apart

I am now officially tired of getting bit by dogs. This is about the tenth time now in a year.

Oh yeah...Albert got out under the fence even with a 30 ft rope on and was gone for 12 annoying hours until animal control called last night at 9pm and delivered his sorry ass.

AND MY LEFT HAND KILLS ME NOW...I have to type at work also all night!

So after today's incident with George and Albert, I decide to make a hot cup of instant coffee. Still frazzled, I put a container that is not microwave friendly and I hear an explosion and a nasty smell.

I'm afraid to go outside right now! lol

So how YOU Doing?

2009-04-08T06:43:00.000-07:00

2009-04-07T11:51:00.000-07:00

Albert got out AGAIN this morning and is not back...
I just finished putting down some welded wire and he dug
an inch from it. He is getting very sophisticated.

I won't lie...it is disappointing when he tries to escape.
I mean...why would he want to leave paradise?

UPDATE: Animal Control called 9pm tonight
Albert was tangled with 30 foot of rope under
a house about a 1/2 mile away.

That's Albert!
.

2009-04-03T07:23:00.000-07:00

How I wish!
Albert dug a huge hole yesterday while I was gone...
Anyone got a spare wheelbarrow?

2009-04-02T05:30:00.001-07:00

The Powerful Impact of a Pet

2009-03-30T14:14:00.000-07:00

At work last night I came in for my shift and asked my co-worker how she was (usual greeting small talk).

She told me her cat Elmo was killed.

OH MAN...what do you say to that!

I was hurt for her. I could hear it in her voice, see it in her eyes that her baby died.

Sadly, she found Elmo lying in the street, his big bushy tale along the side of the road. As she pulled up, she saw his dead eyes starring at her.

What I have learned in life is that when a significant event takes place in another's life, it is extremely important to stop whatever I am doing and focus on that other person. These events do not happen often, but when they do, STOP, LOOK, and LISTEN. Take the time to hear the other person's story and without using words, just be there with them.

Take a few minutes today and give thanks for your pet...they might be gone tomorrow!

RIP Elmo

2009-03-25T19:35:00.001-07:00

I put this together the other day and forgot to mention at the end of the credits the opening music was from a 1962 TV show...I didn't know Kroger was this old.

.

Natura Pet Foods

2009-03-24T19:09:00.000-07:00

There is a job opening locally that involves working for Natura Pet Foods. Ironically, I was aware of them in CA and highly respect what their mission is about. When I wrote the article, Let's Talk Dog Food, I researched over 150 dog foods. Nutura had most of the highest quality foods on my list of excellent choices.

People would be astonished at what is in their supermarket dog food with the pictures of dogs jumping and pretty people smiling. The BIGGEST names in dog food sell the crappiest foods! It is amazing...and MARS Co is in Franklin, TN. They make crappy food with big named products (Kal Kan, Mealtime, Pedigree, Sheba).

How could those big name products--the ones with the commercials be bad food?

How could the heads of AIG be so corrupt? How could Enron rip off so many people? How could Bernard Madoff steal 50 billion of investor's money?

Well, I'll stop here...read the article...I laid it all out there. Point is, take control of your life and do not let the commercials of "pretty people jumping with their dogs on a sunny afternoon " manipulate us to thinking if we bought THAT or if we had THIS we would be happy or successful or whatever message they are trying to hammer into us!

Yes, I have a problem with big name corporate lables that try to squeeze the life out of us with LIES. I'll shut up now.

The effects of crappy food

Say What?

2009-03-23T10:51:00.000-07:00

Is This Gonna Be Forever?

2009-03-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

I've asked this question several times this week myself!

Gotta Love Dogs...again

2009-03-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

Ummm, guess which dog was involved here?

Nathan my neighbor

Albert doesn't know what Left Turn means...

For all you non-bike people...
the front wheel is NOT supposed to be radically tweaked.

2009-03-21T06:04:00.000-07:00

Albert A New Home?

2009-03-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

The bummer of dog rescue is the potential adoption
that lurks beneath the surface.

Albert might find a new home.

I have hard to make some tough decisions as of late
and Albert might have to find another home.

This is a great dog.

He is as full of life as any dog I've fostered.
His energy can be annoying at times,
but it is because he is so full of life.

The way I look at it, a radio's volume can always
be turned down. It is more difficult to turn UP a dog.

More to come...

.

2009-03-18T19:04:00.000-07:00

2009-03-15T19:08:00.000-07:00

How I have been feeling as of late...