Dog Owner Financial Assistance Sites
IMOM Inc. http://www.imom.org/
The Perseus Foundation (Cancer specific) http://www.perseusfoundation.org/
Be a Foster
How long are dogs in foster homes?
There is no average length of stay; it depends on the organization, the dog and the situation. But somewhere between two weeks and three months is not unusual.
What are foster parents asked to do?
Each shelter or rescue organization has its own requirements, but these are common:
- Provide food, water and basic training
- Keep the dog on-leash when outside the home or yard
- Transport the dog to adoption events
- Monitor the dog’s behavioral and physical health. Report any problems to the shelter and/or transport the dog to a vet clinic
- Help further the search for a good home
Can I foster if I have animals of my own?
Yes, in almost all cases. Your own dog and the foster dog need to meet to make sure they get along. As for cats and other pets, you would consult with the organization’s staff about a foster dog’s suitability, and then supervise carefully.
Do I need specialist knowledge?
Absolutely not. If you are familiar with basic training techniques, most organizations hope you will practice manners with him or her. And some older or sick dogs need medications administered - the staff will show you how to do that.
How much time would I need to spend each day?
It depends on the situation. Young, energetic dogs need lots of exercise and play; older dogs spend much of their time snoozing. Orphaned puppies or sick dogs can be very time-intensive guests. Generally, allow two hours per day for walks, meals, play sessions and potty trips.
My ancestors loved to chase rabbit and fox; this must explain my strong, muscular build and ability to move speedily and nimbly. Personality-wise, I am loving, friendly, bold and clever. I love to play due to my active high-energy disposition.
Dog Rescue Organizations
When you rescue a dog you rescue a friend. There are dog rescue groups all over the country. There are many dogs waiting to be adopted by a caring person. There are many websites providing listings of dogs of every kind waiting for a nice home. If you are interested in rescuing a dog you should go to one of these sites and check on what dogs are available. There are people who will drive all across this great land just to adopt the dog they want. The is no limit as to the distance
one will go to get the right dog.
Remember, when you rescue a dog you save a life and really, it could be your own! These are some things to look for in a good rescue/shelter. The rescue/shelter puts the care of the dog first. They will have the necessary adoption forms available. The pets will be spayed or neutered and thoroughly examined by a vet for health and temperament. Any behavioral problems will be disclosed. Most good rescue/shelters will provide training classes when appropriate. They will have a follow-up support provision. A contract as to what is expected and provided by the seller should be drawn up. The rescuer should seek references as to the reputation of the rescue/shelter. Rescue/shelters usually operate as a non-profit or charity service.
When adopting a dog one must remember the time, effort and cost of the care of the pet. Many times children want a puppy but after a short while the puppy becomes a big dog and they don’t want to care for it any more or they simply forget. A conscious commitment should be made in advance to care for the pet.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) was started in England in 1824. At that time, horses, which were commonly used to pull carriages, cabs and freight wagons, were routinely mistreated and abused. They were forced to work with little or no food, water or rest. They were often beaten when they became too exhausted to work.
Over the years, the SPCA has worked to raise awareness of cruelty and mistreatment in all forms of all animals. They do this by educating the public through articles in any and all public forums. They sponsor programs in schools. They actively seek volunteers not only to assist in the shelters but in the foster programs and many other venues. Volunteers also help to spread the word about the society, their work and their mission to help animals.
One of their biggest goals is to eradicate the need of euthanasia in controlling the pet population of dogs and cats. Although their efforts to educate the public about the spay/neuter program has seen some positive results, there remains an enormous need for the public to become more responsible in making certain that their pets are spayed or neutered.
There are many ways for one to help the SPCA. They always need volunteers at the shelters to help with the animals, to assist in maintaining the shelters and to help with fundraising.
There is a great deal of satisfaction to be derived from knowing that you have helped to make the lives of animals, large or small, that much better.
Rescue Organizations in the U.S.
(ASPCA) The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
www.aspca.org
(HSUS) The Humane Society of the United States
www.hsus.org
(NSALA) North Shore Animal League America
www.nsalamerica.org
Best Friends Animal Society
www.bestfriends.org
Animal Farm Foundation
www.animalfarmfoundation.org
Out of the Pits
www.outofthepits.org
Pit Bull Rescue Central
www.pbrc.net
Rescue Organizations in Georgia
Atlanta Pets
Atlanta Pet Rescue
Pet Orphans
Spot Society
Second Chance Dogs
Fur Kids
Animal Rescue Foundation
Harps Inc.
GARD online
Dog Pack Rescue
Jennifer's Pet Rescue
www.1-800-save-a-pet.com/adoption_rescue
MuttCats
Needful Souls
7 Steps to a Happier Pet
1. Make sure your pet wears an I.D. tag. If he becomes lost the tag enables him to be returned to you.
2. Enroll your new puppy or dog in behavioral training classes to prevent animal behavior problems. Visit www.petsforlife.org
3. Animal behavior problems can be health related. At least once a year have a veterinarian perform a complete medical exam on your pet.
4. Be prepared for disasters. Have a plan for your pet in the event of fire, flood, hurricane, or tornado.
5. In case something happens to you have a plan for your pet's future. Visit www.hsus.org/petsinwills for more information.
6. For dog bite prevention and how to avoid dog bites, go to www.NoDogBites.org
7. Have a heart, be smart and make sure your pet is spayed or neutered.
From The Humane Society of the United States original post: 2/16/08
Ten Steps to Dog Bliss original post 6/14/09
Anyone truly interested in the happiness and contentment of their dog will find these ten steps extremely beneficial. When your dog experiences bliss he or she will be a joy to have in your family. Let’s start with the basics.
A happy and contented dog is a healthy dog. Feed your dog at least twice a day. Feeding once a day puts a strain on blood sugar levels. Dogs need a constant supply of fresh water in a clean bowl. Wearing a fur coat can make you warm even on a cool day.
Regular exercise is essential for proper digestion and reduces behavioral problems. A yard to run in is “bliss” for a dog. Spend quality time with your dog. Many dog owners don’t know that dogs are social animals. A dog tied to a dog house at the corner of the property is a totally “bliss less” dog. Take the time to do basic training. Sit, stay and down commands are a good start. A dog wants to please but needs guidance.
Use positive training techniques like rewards for doing good. Correction can be done without any violent behavior. Remember, the dog wants to please you. Be consistent with behavior correction. Allowing or encouraging the dog to jump up one minute and correcting him the next will make a rebellious and fearful dog. It’s your choice.
Talk to your dog. He or she may not exactly understand what you are saying but they will try. Use a soft and loving voice to show them you care about them. Use a firm but not harsh voice to correct. Be aware of your body language. Animals can’t speak or understand the human language of words but they are very good body language readers. When you want them to come to you open your arms welcoming them.
Remember that your dog is totally dependent on you. You have your family and friends but he or she only has you.
What Dogs Want and Need original post 6/12/09
A teacher once asked first and second graders, what did dogs want or need. Their answers included: a home, food, a doctor, play, baths, exercise and love and attention. Those young ones came up with a pretty accurate list.
All dog owners know that a dog must have shelter, whether inside the home or in a doghouse. A healthy diet which supplies all his needs is essential. A good veterinarian is a must for regular check-ups, shots and vaccinations. It is also strongly recommended that the dog be spayed or neutered at an early age.
Dogs need to be groomed regularly. This not only makes them look good, but it is for their health. Regular bathing, sometimes a medicated bath, will ensure that fleas and ticks do not find homes in their fur.
Dogs are descended from wolves, and wolves move in packs. Dogs therefore, are social animals. They like company, and for a family dog that company is from his owner and the family. Frequent pats, rubs, and special attention are a must for dogs. They are not meant to be kept in a basement or even in a fenced-in yard all the time. Dogs which do not get much love and attention start chewing on things, barking constantly or even become anti-social.
All dogs need exercise; taking the pet out to relieve himself is not exercise. Running around in an enclosed yard is also not real exercise. Dogs need to be taken for walks. It is necessary for them to have the time to smell the changes in the neighborhood. Even a good run cannot replace a leisurely stroll.
The owner of the dog should be the "head dog" in the pack. The dog wants to please and is willing to learn what is expected of him. Good and gentle training will enable the dog and owner to know what is expected; and the owner will have a faithful friend for life.
Dogs Need Good Homes Too original post 6/11/09
Puppies are adorable, fluffy, cuddly, and so much fun. Who hasn’t had a tug on their heart when faced with an opportunity to take a dog or puppy home? But if you have seen advertisements for a free dog or puppy, don’t believe it; there is no such thing. Even if you get a puppy for free, there are still many expenses involved in pet ownership.
There are so many things to consider before taking the leap to become a pet owner. Dogs are totally dependent upon their master. Pets need much more than your love and attention. Do you have children? Do research and learn which breeds are best with kids.
There will be many expenses included in caring for a dog. First you will need to give him quality dog food and keep in mind that vet fees are expensive. Don’t forget about vaccinations and heart worm medication. You will also have those little expenses that add up, like a special bowl, dog treats and toys, a collar, and a dog license. You will need to set aside extra money in case of emergencies or illness, too.
To be a responsible dog owner, you will need to exercise your pet. Once you have accepted a dog into your life, you will no longer have the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. A dog will need to be let outside for potty breaks and he will need to be fed and taken care of regularly. If you don’t have a reliable family member or friend, you will need to place your dog in a kennel when you go away.
If you have considered the cost and still yearn to have man’s best friend as your companion, then you qualify and have a good home where a puppy or dog will be free to thrive.
Best Friends 25th Anniversary original post 3/7/09
This is the Best Friends 25th Anniversary design by Cyrus Mejia
It is available on...
Mug - $9 (11oz.)
Set of 4 - $32
T-shirt - $18 (S, M, L, XL, XXL)
Ladies cut T-shirt - $18 (S, M, L, XL)
Store
Consider Adopting
There are so many dogs out there... homeless, in shelters, and on death row. There is no reason for them to be there, other than the carelessness of owners/breeders/etc. contributing to their massive overpopulation. Please consider using any or all of the following sites in your search for a companion.
*Ace of Hearts www.aceangels.org
*Adopt A Pet www.adoptapet.com
*Amanda Foundation www.amandafoundation.org
*Animal Ark Shelter www.animalarkshelter.org
*Animal Shelter www.animalshelter.org
*Best Friends Animal Society www.bestfriends.org
*Deaf Dogs Rescues & Shelters www.deafdogs.org
*D.E.L.T.A. Rescue www.deltarescue.org
*Dogs Deserve Better www.dogsdeservebetter.org
*Dogs In Danger www.dogsindanger.com
*Fortunate Lab Rescue www.fortunatelabrescue.org
*Grey2K USA Saving Greyhounds www.grey2kusa.org
*Helen Woodward Animal Center www.animalcenter.org
*Home At Last Dog Rescue www.homeatlastrescue.com
*Jindo Dog Rescue www.jindorescue.org
*Kris Kelly Foundation www.kriskellyfoundation.org
*Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation www.lindablairworldheart.org
*Maxfund www.maxfund.org
*Misha May Foundation www.mishamayfoundation.org
*Much Love Animal Rescue www.muchlove.org
*Mutt Cats Shelter Directory www.muttcats.com
*Mutt Shack Animal Rescue www.muttshack.org
*New Leash on Life www.nlol.org
*Nevada Humane Society www.nevadahumanesociety.org
*North Shore Animal League www.nsalamerica.org
*PAWS Atlanta www.pawsatlanta.org
*PAWS Chicago www.pawschicago.org
*Petfinder www.petfinder.com
*Petite Paws Rescue Angels www.petitepaws.org
*Pets Alive www.petsalive.com
*Pets 911 www.pets911.com
*Pryor’s Planet www.pryorsplanet.com
*San Francisco SPCA www.sfspca.org
*Save-A-Pet Adoption Center www.save-a-pet-il.org
*Strangest Angels Animal Rescue www.strangestangels.org
*Stray Rescue of St. Louis www.strayrescue.org
*Tompkins County SPCA www.spcaonline.com
source: The American Dog Magazine Summer 2009
Change a Pet's Life Day original post 12/12/08
Jan. 24, 2009
Hill's Pet Nutrition will be sponsoring free pet adoptions for the first 10 adoptions at each participating shelter.
Check www.feedingisbelieving.com on Jan. 1, 2009 for more information and to find a participating shelter near you.
Dog Publications original post 5/19/08
AKC Family Dog - magazine - various dog information for the purebred dog
BARK - magazine - the voice of modern dog culture
BocaDog Magazine - various dog information
Doggie Aficionado - magazine - celebrating dogs and the people that love them
Dog Fancy - magazine - various dog information
Dog’s Life - magazine - various dog information for dog lovers
Dog Sport - magazine - mission to help dog sport competitors and businesses practice, play, and perform
Dog Watch - newsletter - for dog people
Dog World - magazine - various dog information
Fido Friendly - travel magazine
Modern Dog Magazine - lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions
Urban Dog - magazine - chronicles our love affair with our canine companions
Whole Dog Journal - natural dog care and training
Your Dog - newsletter - various dog information for dog owners
A few words from Pedigree original post 2/20/08
*There’s only one known cure for doglessness.
Do you feel the irresistible urge to pet the head, stroke the back, tickle the chin, shake the paw and rub the belly of every dog you see?
Have you ever had a meaningful conversation with a dog without thinking, “Why am I talking to a dog?”
Do you remember the name of every single dog you’ve ever met, but forget their owner’s names?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may indeed be suffering from Dog Fever.
And the only known cure is to adopt a dog.
*Do your dog homework.
The first step toward finding your new best friend is to work out what breed works best for you and your lifestyle. Think about where you live, how active you are, how old you are, how big your yard is, how much time you can spend with your dog and how much money you can spend on your dog. Sure, it’ll take a little thinking. But the more you know, the better.
Once you know what breed works for you, the next step is to contact your local shelters or breed rescues. You can find a list of them by visiting pedigree.com/dog adoption. Each of them has its own adoption process, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with them. Be prepared to fill out paperwork or, in some cases, sit down for a brief interview. If interviews make your palms sweat, just relax, smile and be yourself. Your sincerity will shine through.
When you find a dog that you think could be the one, find out everything you can about them. Don’t be afraid to ask lots and lots of questions, because shelter and rescue workers will be more than happy to answer them. Especially if it means one of their dogs will find the loving home he or she deserves.
*Dog meet home.
Home meet dog.
Congratulations on finding you new dog. Nice job. Now it’s time to introduce him to the family. And while everyone will be excited to meet their new four-legged friend, it can be a stressful time for your dog. So try not to overwhelm him with too much attention. Give him a chance to settle in, and make sure he has a quiet place where he can retreat if he wants to be by himself.
It’s important to get him into a daily routine as soon as possible. Pick a specific time for eating, sleeping, and exercising, and try to stick to that schedule each day. The sooner you get your dog into a consistent daily routine, the sooner he’ll adjust to his new home. As a precaution, you should also schedule a vet appointment for your dog in the first week. This will make sure any undetected health issues he has will be found sooner rather than later.
When introducing your new dog to people outside your immediate family, make sure to do so gradually. If possible, limit introductions to one or two people at a time. And be sure the dog is leashed so that you can control him if you have to. Your dog may have o sniff the person before being petted, so be sure to keep a close eye on him until you’re sure he doesn’t feel threatened. And under no circumstances should you allow anybody to startle, harass or roughhouse your dog on purpose.
**At PEDIGREE, nothing makes us happier than seeing a shelter dog find a loving home, so thank you for opening your heart and home to one of these sweet dogs. You’ve not only found a friend for life, you’ve saved a life. Your dog will repay your kindness with more licks, loyalty, and unconditional love than you can possibly imagine. And when you adopt a dog, we’ll give you a month of free food as our way of saying “thanks”. Visit pedigree.com/dog adoption/freefood.asp to learn more. But there are still millions of lovable dogs in shelters. So when you buy our food, we make a donation to help them find the loving homes they deserve. Thanks for helping us help dogs.
from The PEDIGREE Adoption Drive
5 Ways you can Make a Difference Now 1/1/08
1. Organize a food, toys, & blanket drive at your office for the local humane society.
2. Donate a couple of dollars. Because it feels good and takes just a second.
www.bestfriends.org
3. Take an hour out of your Saturday and volunteer to walk the dogs at your city shelter.
4. Deliver some doggie therapy to those lonely or ailing by visiting with your dog.
www.deltasociety.org - www.tdi-dog.org
5. Make some room in your heart and home and adopt a shelter dog!
www.petfinder.com
From ModernDog magazine Winter 2007/08
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