April Newsletter - NBSTR Paws and Hands

New Beginnings Shih Tzu & Friends Rescue
www.nbstr.org / www.nbstr.petfinder.org
Support Rescue: Different Breeds…One Community / Companions for Life
New Beginnings Shih Tzu and Shih Tzu Mix Rescue is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All contributions are tax deductible.
The dogs profiled in our newsletters are in foster homes throughout WI, IL, IN, NE, OH, MI, AR, MN, and SD.
More than 556 dogs rescued to date
April 2008
Hoping for a Home
The April newsletter is sponsored by Sharon Cimino
Dedicated to: The amazing people in NB who transport, organize, vet, foster, fund raise, give of their talents and time, support each
other and who ultimately have their hearts broken and renewed each day...this Bud's for you!!!
Sandi/F/6/WI Champagne
colored girl in search of
partner. Friendly, sweet, and
looking for a snuggle bunny.
Nutmeg/F/1.5/WI
Ringo/M/5 months/WI
Mama Nutmeg and baby Ringo are
doing great and are ready for one
more adventure. Is your home
their new playground? These
dogs must be placed together.
Romeo/M/1/IN Hairy lover: I’m
chocolate/white, 7 pounds, with a
Maltese face and the most
beautiful set of teefies my foster
mom has ever seen. I dash
through the snow and sleep curled
next to her!
Brewster/M/1/IN
Zow! Powie! Crash and slide into home
or the kitchen cabinets – whichever
comes first!! I’m Brewster, full of
energy! Love boy! ZAM! Whoosh!
Dexter003/M/5/IL Cute as a
button, shiny as a one too: I’m
looking toward a great home.
Frankie and Scottie/M/2/WI
We’re brothers. We’re bonded.
We’re cute. And we’re yours if
you are willing to love us, care for
us, and welcome us into your
home.
Cowboy/M/6 months/ WI
Taken from a backyard breeder,
Cowboy and my brother Ricky are
shy dogs who crave affection. I
am more a cuddler.
Ricky/M/6 months/WI
I’m more the instigator and
investigator. Cowboy has some white
fur; I’m all black.
I hope everyone appreciates how these lives get saved … they get saved because of people who network, transport, foster, recruit their
friends and adopters to foster, sew, create beautiful quilts, design calendars, do Petco, put dogs on Petfinder, write articles for the
website and newsletter, pay our bills, schlep newsletters to vet clinics and grooming shops, talk to coworkers about rescue, handle dog
records, fundraise, pray … they are saved because of you.
Every dog in this rescue has every volunteer in this rescue standing behind him or her. And you. We couldn’t do it without you. They
wouldn’t be alive without you. When you receive your newsletter, look carefully at each of the little faces. You transported, sewed,
contributed, thought of us, spoke to a friend or a vet. You prayed for our dogs. You saved them. We are saving lives and changing
lives, one dog (and one person) at a time.~ Bekye Walker
Angels: Thanks to you for your generosity with time, funds, understanding, and / or special projects:
Don of Don’s Dogs, who works with the
dogs that would otherwise have no chance
(see the feature on him in this
newsletter).
Rena Gail Lewin, who created the 2008
raffle quilt and gives us holiday themed
portraits of dogs.
Kitra Nelson, for devoted rescue work,
near the MN/SD border.
Carol Pfeiffer for lavishing time and love
on people and dogs.
YOU! Did you know
that you can help our foster dogs? Click
on the Sponsor me! tab in their Petfinder
listing, and help us help our dogs.
Our transporters: chauffeurs to freedom,
who give dogs with little hope, a ride to a
new life.
Sabrina Mott’s class at Pleasantdale Middle School
After talking to my students yesterday about Mini Mouse, they felt really sad about for her. Today they came up with 25.00 to donate
towards her. You should be getting a check for 25.00 from Pleasantdale Middle School. Would you please keep us in touch regarding
her health? These kids are very concerned about her. If we raise more money we will send it to you. Take care, Sabrina Mott
How to contact us:
Wisconsin
Bekye Walker
414 801-3763
[email protected]
Carol Pfeiffer
262 889-4046
[email protected]
Minnesota
Illinois
Indiana
Lisa Hatlestad
218 281-6917
[email protected]
Erinn
952-457-2909
[email protected]
Nick
708 560-9678
[email protected]
Julie
[email protected]
Ohio
Gina
[email protected]
Nebraska
South Dakota
Arkansas
Jayne
[email protected]
Lavina
605 359-6059
[email protected]
Mary
870 445-2741
[email protected]
Sharon 614 537-0651
[email protected]
Mary Ann
608 217-1072
[email protected]
Newsletter dates and information: Holly Schoenecker / [email protected]
Online animal medical information:
Information and photographs by veterinarians and a quick click
guide to typical topics.
http://www.thepetcenter.com/gen/faid.html
Note: this site is intended as a guide, not a substitute for visiting
your vet.
Online dog food information
www.dogfoodproject.com
Includes: “Identifying Better Products” and “Label Information
101”
Online Heartgard and Frontline
http://www.petsuppliesnet.com/shop.htm
(allow 2-3 weeks for delivery)
Where to find us:
Petco Greenfield (WI)
4/6
noon – 2:00
4/20 noon – 2:00
76TH Street south of Layton Ave
Pet Supplies Plus Greenfield (WI)
76th Street north of Layton Ave
Petco Lake Geneva (WI)
4/5 4/19 5/3 5/17
1st and 3rd Saturday of the month noon – 2:00
Petco Kenosha (WI)
4/12
11:00 – 2:00
3/22
11:00 – 2:00
4/13 5/4 5/18
noon – 3:00
4/26 5/3 - Quilt Raffle Drawing!
11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
3/22
noon – 3:00
4/12 5/17
11:00 – 2:00
4/13 5/4
noon – 3:00
3/29 11:00 a.m. – 1 p.m.
4/19 5/17 noon- 3 p.m.
04-06 Inaugural Event!
Petco West Bend (WI)
806 W. Paradise Dr/ West Bend, WI
/
262 334-4785
Petco Harwood Heights (IL)
Petco Skokie (IL)
Touhy Ave
Petco Bloomingdale (IL)
412 Army Trail Rd / Bloomingdale, IL 60108 / 630-307-1210
Petco Skokie (IL)
across from old Orchard shopping center
Petco Romeoville (IL)
Weber Road at Airport Road just south of the I-355/I-55 interchange
Petco Richfield (MN)
Petco Grand Forks (ND)
Petco St Cloud
Time to anticipate
Coming up:
up
APRIL 12 – Burlington Expo Burlington, WI
MAY 3 – Milwaukee Police Dept K9 Fundraiser
MAY 10 – Indiana Expo
NEW BEGINNINGS QUILT RAFFLE Drawing May 3
at the Skokie, IL Petco
crafted by Rena Lewin
Dolly/F/2/IL
My owners let me get so matted, I
needed to be shaved. Now I’m
cold. (I’m looking for a family and
a sweater.)
Tango/M/5/WI gentle,
charismatic, and playful, great
manners, laid back, but I do enjoy
adventure and love being active,
jumping through snow, running, or
going on a long walks. I'm
searching for a home of my own
where I can do fun things and
have my own understanding
person to love wholeheartedly.
Darla/F/ 18 months /WI
I’m a pug-Shih Tzu mix. Friendly.
Great at staring into your eyes and
sending thoughts of love and food.
Come under my spell.
Oliver, who found a friend and a
new family!
Spanky/M/4/IL
I’m a cuddly Shih Tzu Pomeranian
mix, who loves rawhides and
cuddling. I came into rescue as a
shelter dog. I love walks.
Missy/F/3/WI
A backyard breeder dumped me at
a shelter because I wouldn’t have
babies to make him lots of money.
I’m scared.
Sashi/F/2/IL
Girl with packed bag and leash on
the ready, ready to move
…Mooove…got that? I’m on the
MOOVE – call me, honey.
I’m a tall-legged chorus girl who
wants to be the star of your show.
I’m bouncy, happy, and eager for
walks. Great with people and
dogs, anxious to be out and about.
Jackson/M/6/WI
6 year-old male seeking TLC. I am
a Puppy Mill survivor with a gentle,
sweet and playful personality. I
am hoping to find someone who
can accept me with my special
needs to cuddle and snuggle with
to my heart’s content. If you’re
looking for someone to share your
life with, I’m your man. Love,
Jackson. WI
Ways to help:
iGive.com (Cause ID is 40105)
Complete details are available at:
http://www.iGive.com/html/causestats.cfm
(You must log in as a member to view this
page)
Pick N Save Grocery Stores
Your Advantage card will result in a 1%
contribution to New Beginnings, with no
extra cost to you. Register your card to
# 536625
GoodSearch
Use this search engine and for each
online search you do, New Beginnings
receives money. Be sure you list New
Beginnings as your designated charity.
Maggie Marie/F/8/IL
I’m a Maltese (or Maltese mix) who
came into rescue from a shelter.
Cuddly, cute, and smart: that’s me.
Bubbles/F/8/WI Tiny, black and
white, cuddler, who likes to put
just the tip of my tongue from my
mouth, looking for someone to call
my own.
Gracie/F/ /WI
I lost the only mommy I knew, and
was put into a shelter, but now I
am in a foster home, hoping for a
new mom or dad.
Chelsea/F/9/WI
Love to romp and play, have great
athletic skills (gold medal in couch
leaping), and white paws (never
need to put special occasion gloves
on me). I’m your good time girl.
Zac/M/IL This little shelter boy is
recovering from heartworm
treatment, and thinking about a
forever home.
Loretta/F/11/MN
I came into rescue from a shelter;
they found me stuck in a snow
bank Lookin’ for a warm blanket,
a hot meal, and a pair of arms to
snuggle into.
Sugar/F/5/WI
My mom died, and the people I
was living with have no money to
care for me and a baby. I’m
loving, housetrained, cuddly.
Brandy/F/5/WI Former mill girl
looking for a home where I will be
safe in your affections.
Missy/F/2/WI (ST-Pom mix?)
I was put out of my home with a
“free to good home” ad – but Mary
Ann got me into rescue, and now
Heidi is helping me find a real
home filled with love.
Rudy/M/6 months old/MI
Poodle/Bichon mix. One of six
dogs found in abandoned in a barn
at an Amish puppy mill. The
temperature was 3 below. I’m shy
and scared.
Sabel/F/8 months/WI
I’m a Pomeranian, and caramel
colored. Like Missy, I came into
rescue after my owners put me in
the paper with a “free to good
home” ad.
Nala / F / 2 / WI
Affectionate, tiny, and the soft tan
color of caramel. I came into
rescue when my family could not
take care of me.
Sophie/F/8/IL
Creamy colored girl loves balls,
being outside, being admired and
admiring you. I’m housetrained
and loyal. Be my sugar, and give
me a ring.
Tex/M/5/WI You – me – guy-type
stuff. Football, loafing on the
couch, a training jog. Snacks on
the couch. Crumbs in bed? Not
when I’m there with you – they’re
all taken care of.
Danny/M/10/WI
Expert as sniffing out love, liver
sausage, cheez balls, and walks.
DannyBoy I am, and your
DannyBoy I’d like to be!
Ike/M/3/IN
I like IKE. Sweet, loyal, allAmerican, and mannerly. Save me
from the crazy puppy in my foster
home – take me home with you!
Precious/F/3/WI I'll fill your lap
with love. I'm considered a
"designer" because of my varied
pedigree, but darned if I care. Just
give me a calm, quiet home where
I can lounge at my leisure.
Ruby/F/9/IN Abused by her former
owner’s boyfriend, this girl
multilated her own tail to the point
it had to be surgically removed.
Trying to trust, looking for love.
Tasha/F/5/WI
Vicky/F/ /IL
Let me stretch our on your bed and
welcome you home.
100 plus member rescue group
welcomes new volunteers
interested in helping dogs, road
trips (with dogs), eating chocolate
(to pay vet bills for dogs), and
sharing love and laughter (as well
as the heartache and hope that
comes with rescue). Interested?
Apply at www.nbstr.org
My name is Tasha (I was named after Sleeping Beauty’s mother, Queen
Natasha) and I would like to introduce myself. I am a 5 year old female Shih
Tzu, black and grey in color and I weigh 12½ pounds. I was found abandoned
in a pig barn and no one really knows what my previous life was like (and I am
not talking), but I bring no baggage from my past life into my new life, except
for a cute little piggy snort when I am happy. The few days I spent at the
animal shelter were a blur, surgery (no more birthing babies for me), baths
(there ain’t no fleas on me), haircut (I said “take a little off the top” and they
took a lot off of all!). People were in and out and then my fairy foster mom
came to take me home. I was very shy…for about a minute. I was so happy to
find other dogs and cats at my foster home…I love other animals and they love
me! My foster mom took me to visit her grandchildren and I had so much fun.
I learned a lot too. I learned that babies have firm grips, sloppy kisses and
laugh when you lick their toes. I learned that little boys like to run around,
carry you upside down and drop food from the table. I learned that little girls
like to dress you up, paint your toenails (who knew – PURPLE looks good on
me!), and feed you Cheerios one at a time at tea parties. My two favorite
activies are eating and snuggling. I am happiest when I am sitting on
someone’s lap, or cuddled up next to them. I respond well to praise and have
almost perfected housetraining (maybe I was born in that barn). The only thing
missing from my new fairy tale life is my own Prince or Princess Charming to
take me home to live happily ever after.
Because they need us...we need you
All contributions are tax deductible.
New Beginnings depends on the generosity of our foster families, our members, and our donors. Without funds and foster homes, we
cannot rescue dogs. The average veterinary cost for one of our dogs is $425. The average adoption donation is $250. How do we
leap the gap? Love, faith, donors, and belief that what we do makes the world a better place, not only for the dogs, but for the people
they love.
How much do people give? Donations have ranged from the dollar at Petco to more than several thousand. People give to the dogs
from their hearts, and since we work from our hearts, that is what is important. You may not foster, you may not transport, you may
not be adopting a dog from us; by sending your thoughts and donations, know that you also are part of our organization and our
mission.
Help our mission to rescue those who need us.
All our members are volunteers, so 100% of your contribution goes to the dogs.
And, since we are a charitable organization, donations are tax deductible. You will receive a letter acknowledging your donation.
Yes, I want to help the dogs. Enclosed is my tax-deductible donation.
Name ___________________________________________________________________________
Address ________________________________________________________________________________________
Send your help to:
New Beginnings Shih Tzu and Friends Rescue / PO Box 63 / Greendale, WI 53129
Thank you.
Boy Angel/M/2/MN
I want to kiss you all day. I'm
two years old, but I still act like a
clumsy puppy. If you want puppy
playing and puppy-kisses, then I'm
your guy!
Girl Angel/F/3/IN
Housetrained, sweet, and ready to
nap next to you. I get along with
other dogs and want to eat out of
your hand. Meet me and you will
love me.
Bandy/M/ puppy MN/ Playful and
ready to steal your heart as well
as your socks. Come snuggle with
me.
MaggieMae/F/11/IN
Sweet as pie (and there’s been a
little of it in my diet – I go about
19# on the scale). If you’re up
for a sugar-sweet girl, I’m the
one.
Prince Charming/M/AR
Recovering from heartworm
treatment and a lifetime of
abuse.
Davie/M/6/IL Single male hunting
for adult family with large hearts
and refrigerator privileges.
Cody/M/15/IL
Look into my eyes…you love
me…you LOVE me…and I love you.
Bruno/M/7/WI
Long-suffering boy seeks funtype girl. Object: love.
Cricket/M/4/NE Just like crickets
in Chinese stories are lucky, so am
I. Out of a shelter, a tail like a
plume of grey smoke, love car
rides and sitting next to you.
Housetrained. I “sit” for a treat.
Wolfie/M/ /WI
Got my swimsuit on, and waitin’ for
Sum – MER! Yeah! Housetrained
and friendly. [Got the name
because the girls give me wolf
whistles.]
Cinders/F/10/WI
Shy girl, wants to stop being a
wallflower and bask in the sun of
your affection. I’m built for
snuggling. I’m tired of being
Cinders; I want to be Cinderella.
Maya/F/6/ WI Cute, loyal, and a
great kisser. I love other dogs,
and have learned to sit. A
quieter home that likes to play
and take walks with me would be
ideal.
Deacon, the 7-month old pup, originally named Oreo.
The first surprise was that I expected a dog named Oreo to be black and white nope, he's grey, brindle and white. He is about 20 pounds of wild, totally
untrained puppy. He is sweet and kissy and on the move all the time. Ransom
hates him and has lost two of his loose front teeth to prove it. Oreo does not
mark, but he does not seem to be housebroken.
The people I picked him up from (home 3) claimed he was never their dog. It
was a miserable pickup. We talked for about 2 minutes, they took his kennel
from the back of their SUV and put it in mine. Then they left. I was
heartbroken how little they cared to see him go. These people didn't even
bother opening the kennel to say goodbye.
And the kennel!! Owner 2 allegedly left him in it "most of the time." This was no freaking kennel, this was a cat carrier! He could not stand up in
it. What months of misery this must have been for him. Owner 3 delivered him in the kennel and I didn't wait for them to leave the parking lot to
take him out. I had to tether him in the vehicle, because he was crazy and jumping all over me - already kissing at that point. But there was no way
I was leaving him in a carrier at least 1/2 the size needed.
He's very, very sweet. Just has had absolutely no training. He needs an owner willing to devote some time to him. ~ Erinn
The Sunshine Kids They’re older, they’re wonderful, and they’re in rescue in a dog world where it sometimes seems that
everyone wants a cute, young, female puppy. Take a look at our sunshine kids, because any of them would bring life and sunshine into
your heart. Bring one of these seniors home to have love in your life.
Ivy/F/9/MN
Soft, warm, adorable: I can be all
those things. I can also race you
around the dining room table for
the Shih Tzu 500. I’m a really
talented girl.
Domino/M/13/WI Sweet old man
looking for a new pack to love.
I love belly rubs, treats and all
other dogs. I especially love to
care for young pups and females.
If you have babes that need to
be cared for, please contact my
foster mom Carol.
Griffin/M/10 / IN Cananova…VERY handsome with Rod Stewart
haircut 11 yr. old senior blind boy. HOUSETRAINED: I go to the
door and bark when I need to go out. I’m savvy with negotiating
the house and females. Love…luuv wrestling with girls. Love
flirting and kissing ears. I’m sweet on Annie, who’s been sleeping
with me lately, kissing on Lucy, tried to date Sassy. So, if anyone
is looking for a handsome little housetrained Casanova....I’m your
man! IN
Who Mugged the Rabbit?
I took Marcia to the vet today at lunch. I have a stuffed "corner
kid" Easter Bunny that is in the corner by my front door.
This was all Rusty; Marcia was with me getting bloodwork done
and Wrigley was locked in the laundry room.
Check out the perfect placement of the Bunny's arms...I guess
the Easter Bunny won't be coming to my house this year. ~ KimP
Ed: Photo on the left is the crime scene aftermath: everyone
denies responsibility.
A Beautiful After from a sad Before: Liza
Liza at intake 9-25-07
Arrival in her foster home 10-7-07
December 2007
Liza will be going up on Petfinder as soon
as I complete her bio. She is definitely
ready for her forever home! She got her
second grooming today since coming here.
I'm working at letting her hair grow long, in
another month the short stuff between her
eyes should be long enough to go in a top
knot. A year from now she should have a
nice plume for a tail! ~ Cindy Johnson
March 2008
March 2008
“You meet the nicest people through rescue”
“He’s a biter.” This is a sentence that can strike fear into the hearts of many rescuers. What are we getting ourselves into? Is this
dog a permanent foster? What are the dog’s triggers? And the next crucial question: how many foster spots do we have for biters?
For some dogs, the label “biter” becomes a death sentence. Shelters cannot adopt them out, and there are few adoption applicants
that specify “biter” on their “What are you looking for in a dog?” answer. When Ted, a small dog with a spring in his step came into
rescue, his chances for adoption looked great. Then he bit – repeatedly. Through the magic of love and rescue, our member
Margaret found Don, who agreed to work with Ted, and who willingly focuses on biters [earning him the admiration and respect of
just about everybody who has heard his story].
Hi Margaret,
Ted drew blood only nine times in the first two days (only). It is obvious that he has been mistreated severely by a male and carries a
tremendous fear with him. Although he seemed to bond with Brenda almost immediately, he continued to show signs of being
uncomfortable even with her. He is much better with her now, and is actually sleeping on my lap. If I try to contact him in a consoling
manner, he growls and has the intention to bite. I have found that if I have something in my hand, when I touch him, such as a glass
of water or the TV controls he pays no attention and doesn’t feel threatened. Along with not liking men I also have a feeling that he
was a mess before they shaved him. Part of his uncomfortableness ( I think I just invented a word) is simply the feeling of being
touched so close to his skin, a feeling that I think he has never experienced. He will be O.K. with us within two weeks but it might
take some time for him to lose all of his fears.
Thank you for the invite to coach your members about handling biters but I would not know where to start. There are so many
variables such as figuring out the dog’s history, overcoming your own fear of being bitten and not the least being willing to put your
personal pain ahead of the long term recovery of the little guy. Many things I do such as rubbing the dog with something in my hand
are so instinctual that they just happen and for sure don’t always work. At that point you must obviously try something else and
maybe come back to the things that didn’t work sometime later when the general level of trust changes. One thing that I have found
out through experience is that I have never been bitten while giving a dog a bath and nearly every time the relationship has improved
dramatically because the close contact and the rush that the dog gets from the experience.
Update after a few weeks with Ted: I now believe that Ted had no positive human intervention what-so-ever. My guess is that he
was thrown into a breeding situation and criminally abused by his owner. Ted is now sitting on my lap and allowing me to pet his
face and clean his eyes. Two weeks ago that was band-aid territory. He still growls occasionally, but has no fear at all at this point.
Please allow me to give you a brief resume of my experience and a little insight as to what we intend to accomplish through Don’s
Dogs.
Don: Grew up in a rural town (Brazil, IN) where I always had a fascination with small animals and always owned dogs and cats.
Graduated from Indiana University-Kokomo with concentrations in Psychology and Minority Studies with graduate level credits from
Purdue University in Animal Psychology. Volunteered at Wolf Park in Battle Ground, In. for five years studying wolf pack behavior. Coowner of Indiana Coyote Rescue for ten years rehabilitating and releasing coyotes and foxes back into the wild. My last two years
have been spent in the field of dog rescue. My “real” job is the design of engine controllers for diesel engines for DELPHI E & S,
Kokomo, In.
Don’s Dogs
My lovely wife Brenda and I started Don’s Dogs for a specific purpose and that was to rescue dogs Cocker Spaniel or smaller that for
whatever purpose were going to be killed by various animal control organizations. We work with five controls in Ohio and five in
Indiana and whenever they have the above described dogs they are going to put down, we go and rescue them. Upon rescue and
evaluation we then have our vet spay/neuter and do a dental if needed while they are out, fecal test, heart worm test, give all
vaccinations and micro-chip.
At the risk of tying all that rambling together, I will say that we do not cherry pick our rescued dogs; thus we have dogs that are
blind, old, have cancer and, as has been brought up earlier, are not wired right. I do not want to give the impression that all of the
dogs we get are basket cases because they are not. We get many little guys and girls that are perfectly able to go right out for
adoption and that is the only thing that keeps enough money coming in to take care of the dogs we care for.
Don
Rescue is not one organization, one breed, or one set of criteria. We are all in this together – saving lives, believing, loving, and
finding loving forever homes – together. Thanks to Don’sDogs [a 501c3 registered charity], there’s a lot more hope for the Teddogs of IN and OH. Don and Brenda are “Don’s Dogs”: they do it completely on their own, welcoming dogs into their home. To help
Don and Brenda, and the Ted-dogs who would die without them, please send donations to:
Don’s Dogs
Don and Brenda Lambert
2833 N. Apperson Way
Kokomo, IN 46901
Below: New Beginnings members at the Chicago Expo
Who we are
In 2001, I moved to Tallahassee, FL. I knew no one other than the family I was living with and was basically starting a whole new
life. My friend and her family had left to visit relatives for the weekend, and I was determined that I was going to find myself an
apartment. The first complex I visited was perfect, so after putting down a deposit and signing the lease, I found myself with
basically an entire weekend with nothing to do. I was driving down one of the main Tally streets, listening to the radio, when I heard
an advertisement for an adoption event happening at the local PETsMART. I glanced up, noticed that I was passing by that very
PETsMART, and decided to go in and check it out. I walked into the store, and it was chaos! 6 rescue groups were there for the
spring Adopt-a-thon, and there were cats and dogs everywhere. I walked around the store, talking to different people, and found
one group that I really seemed to "click" with. I wound up spending the rest of the weekend there, helping out.
I started out fostering cats for the rescue because I wasn't allowed to have dogs at my apartment. I remember telling the director,
though, to pray that she never got a Shih Tzu into the program because I'd had one with my ex-boyfriend a few years before and
was crazy about the breed. She assured me that in the ten years she had been doing rescue, she had never had a Shih Tzu come
into the program. Famous last words. About 3 months later, I got a call from her as I was getting off work. Two Good Samaritans
had found a small dog in terrible shape limping down the side of a road outside of town. They picked him up and brought him to
PETsMART, where the director worked as a manager. She told me that they weren't sure what he was, but she thought he was a
Shih Tzu. He was a mess.. he was matted to the skin, his nails were curled under into the pads of his feet, he had a tumor on one
front leg, he had an ulcer on one eye and he had demodectic mange. Once he was shaved down, we determined that he was,
indeed, a Shih Tzu, and the rescue director estimated that he was about a year old. I took him home with me, determined to
convince my landlord to let me foster him, which he did. I named him Alex, and my passion for Shih Tzu rescue was born.
I fostered Alex for six months but never could find anyone good
enough to adopt him. I finally accepted that it was because he
had already found his home.. with me. Alex is 8 years old now
and very involved in my rescuing as he welcomes each new
foster and helps "show them the ropes" of their new, temporary
home. Alex is truly my "heart dog", and he has been my
partner for the past 7 years as we've rescued over 200 Shih Tzu
and other small dogs and helped them find their own "forever
"homes. ~ LeannL
Give these girls a voice and read your words in print!
Just send us your idea for the caption line, along with a donation
to help care for the vetting of Tess and our other foster dogs.
Get our newsletter online and don’t want to use a stamp to mail
in your ideas? No problem! We accept PayPal – enter your
caption for the photo in the message section of your PayPal
donation. (www.nbstr.org)
Captions will appear in our May newsletter.
Here’s my caption:
Enclosed is my donation to help Tess and all the NB foster dogs.
Name _________________________________________________________
Address ___________________________________________________________________
City/ State / Zip code_________________________________________________________________________
Thank you! You will receive a tax deductible donation letter for any donation of more than $10.
Who we are and what we do:
Why do I like doing Petcos? Because Marie feeds us!
What is my favorite part of Expos? Shopping!
Why do I transport? Because it's the only time I really clean my car--after I have dropped off my passengers!
Thank you very much! ~ GinaH
Let’s start out by what I don’t like about doing Petcos:
Every weekend of my life almost, is committed to appearing at one or two Petcos. The only time I don’t go is when I’m out of foster
dogs and we all know that’s almost a thing of the past now. The fuel, tolls and time getting from one place to another is hard on
the budget but at least, with proper record keeping, it’s tax deductible.
What I like about doing Petcos:
Having the opportunity to meet people and letting my dogs be seen by other people and get them used to being around other dogs
and people. We have cute dogs and the first thing people do is comment about how cute they are. My first question is, “Would you
like to hold one?” Once I get the person seated with a dog in his or her arms, I have more of their attention. Once they touch the
dog and feel this little creature in their arms, it gets them started thinking. Just ask Linda Thibeau and Don who came into Petco to
buy fish food and filled out an application before they left. Look what it has led to for Linda and Don. They are now fantastic foster
parents.
I love walking through the store with adoptive parents looking at the different labels on the dog food bags and educating them
about proper nutrition. I love the “feeling” I get meeting people and figuring what kind of dog would be the best match for them. I
love the friendships that form with the adoptive parents because of the common love we have for the dog.
I also look forward to seeing my wonderful rescue buddies at these events. To share pictures with the rest of the group located in
other states. Sure wish they were all closer to home.
I am truly grateful for the Petco Foundation grant money that helps us in such a big way to save dogs. Most Petco managers and
staff are so happy to have us host meet and greets at their locations. Our small dogs are a hit.
Transport: What I like about it:
To be honest, not a whole bunch. Who wants to drive hundreds of miles, spending a fortune on gas when I could be either sleeping
late, cleaning my house, spending time with my own dogs. However, being a part of transporting these dogs, many of whom have
been brutalized on one way or another, from a hellish environment to one of safety, well, there are just no words for the
satisfaction that it brings.
I load their crates in my car, slip treats through the sides, put on an Eric Clapton CD and off we go. The whole time they are
thinking, I’m sure, ‘What is the next Hell going to be like to where this woman is driving us.’ When Eric is done, I talk to them and
tell them that I know they are scared but the “Bad” is gone and this is the first step to “Good” for the rest of their lives. I tell them
about warm in winter and cool in summer, feet, eyes and teeth that feel good all the time, full bellies, soft beds, toys and exercise.
I’m sure they don’t understand but talking to them usually calms them.
Then, a little while later, I hand them off to someone else to continue their journey to “good”. I may be tired when I’m done but
feeling a lot better knowing that another batch get a New Beginning. Joanne Folkerts
What do you like about doing Petcos?
I love hanging out with my NB friends and learning something every single time. I love watching prospective adopters come into
the stores and find their forever pet. As soon as they see the dog for them, it is so great to watch them bond and know that the
dog is going to be in a great home. I especially love going to Petcos and seeing past adopters come BACK with the NB dog they
adopted! It is so great to see how the dogs have changed and that they are so very loved...and so great to know
how involved the new family is, by coming to Petcos. Marie, I love your cream cheese, which is another reason why I love Sunday
Petcos.
What's your favorite part of expos?
My favorite part of Expos is the fact that we get to teach everyone something. So many people come to the expos thinking they are
going to go home with a dog, not knowing what the dog has been through, or the fact that there is such a thing as a puppy mill,
etc. I love being able to hold a foster dog in my arms and talk to people about what is has been through, and what the dog wants
to look forward to. I love letting people know about allergies (this is a big one for me and I have tons of experience in the area)
and the fact that I could potentially help another dog or another shih tzu owner who may not be aware.
Expos are a great way to recruit volunteers, to let people know that we need volunteers to do such things as rescue events, pet
expos, because so many people think that volunteering means you have to foster a dog...
Why do you transport?
I transport because every time I do, I have a story to tell. My car broke down in a storm when I picked up my mill girl, Posie, a year
ago. She and I bonded so much from the experience, from being stuck in an intersection during rush hour, then sitting in a police
car, then sitting in the tow truck, then in a cab from the repair shop to home...in EVERY one of these cars I got to tell someone else
the story of puppy mills.
When I picked up my first foster, Precious, she smelled so rancid I had to drive home with the windows down in February...
I also love transporting because I know it means the dogs are on the road to a good life. A much better, happier life. It's all about
the dogs. ~ Kimberly Pietrucha
Death Is Nothing At All
Be at Peace, Live forever in Love
Duke Walker, Dukie, the gentlest boy
All Is Well
Death is nothing at all,
I have only slipped into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.
Call me by my old familiar name,
Speak to me in the easy way which you always used
Put no difference in your tone,
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed
together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household world that it always was,
Let it be spoken without effect, without the trace of shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant.
It is the same as it ever was, there is unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near,
Just around the corner.
All is well.
Henry Scott Holland 1847-1918
Canon of St Paul’s Cathedral
Welcome Home:
Placing a pet in a wonderful, adoptive home or helping at your shelter is the happiest moment in rescue, even if it doesn't feel like it at
the moment. You helped to make a perfect love story, and you get to move on to help yet another. This is why we do rescue. The
circle completed. ~ Lavina
I took Laura’s foster Jenny to meet the LaBudas. Jenny was timid for all of about ten minutes, and then her tail came up and she was
constant motion, checking out every inch of the house. Linda had made her a bed - a basket with a homemade fleece cushion - and
bought her some toys, which she availed herself of very quickly. A little while later, Raymond picked her up, and she just sank into his
lap and just laid there quietly, watching everything going on around her. Their 12 year old granddaughter was there, too, and Jenny
made sure that she got plenty of attention from her, too. ~ LeannL
Leo landed a gig as the pampered pooch of a palatial estate in the country outside of Beloit Wisconsin. Both sets of Leo's new
"grandparents" came over to meet him and brought presents for him (gift wrapped), including a Green Bay Packer collar. Leo happily
greeted everyone, explored every room in the house, and snuggled right in making himself at home in a leather chair with his new toys.
~ Dan and Barb
Bubba is now the happy addition to my friend Rob's family. Bubba loves Rob, he runs up to him with his tail wagging, and Rob's son
Spencer took a shine to Bubba the first day I had him. They have a large fenced in yard that backs up to a park, two dogs that are
both from rescues, so they know the extra care that is needed for these rescue boys. ~ CarriC
We went to Shawano for a home visit with Adell Jensen, who absolutely loved Rebel. However, they have 3 ferrets and it depended
upon how Rebel was received by the ferrets. Well let’s just say he found 3 new playmates and he never looked back when we were
leaving. We stayed almost 2 1/2 hours and had a great time. Rebel was in his glory and busy giving the ferrets kisses and trying to get
them to play with him. ~ Laura
Mia the SuperGlue snuggler, found a best friend in Chad and his family.~ LauraC
Wiley found his forever home today with a wonderful mom, Linda Aracado. ~ CarriC
My parents met Sophie last night and have fallen COMPLETELY in love with her. They adopted my Nathan (now known as Obie) about
a month ago and so are already approved, and they asked to adopt Sophie this morning. I've talked to Laura this morning, who thinks
it is a great idea, and so Sophie will become a member of my parents' little doggie family. ~ LeannL
Penney walked right in and made herself at home. She was adopted by Jesse Merril. She also has two sister Tzu mixes, Riley & Gracie.
~ Sheila
Ralphie is now Ralphie Juarez of Tinley Park, IL. Christopher and his family wanted another ST after their Freddy died of congestive
heart failure. Ralphie's issues seemed minor to this family. ~ June
Sweet Pea found her forever home with Jim and Janelle Henry of Albertville, MN. Thank you very much to the Mary S, Brad and
Cindy Bonatos, Lisa H, Jen Seeley and Kaye for helping me with Sweet Pea's adoption. Mary brought Sweet Pea to us, Brad and Cindy
fostered her directly from the transport, Lisa introduced me to them, Jen did the home visit and Kaye is transporting. Now is that a
team effort or what?? ~ GinaH
Silly and Spottie found their forever homes, thanks to foster mom Trish who wasn’t really in a position to foster but her heart won
out so she did.
Baby Doll found her forever home. ~ HeidiW
Marley was adopted Friday evening by a wonderful applicant, Laura Healy. Marley's tail is up (actually, I don't think he could get it
down if he tried) he's loving meeting the extended family members, found his favorite chair by the window, met his mid-day dog
walker and likes him and all is well. Laura said that everyone is just crazy in love with him. Yep, know the feeling. ~ Joanne
Bambi, puppy mill survivor, proudly announces that hereafter she is to be known as Bambi Walker-Eckert, beloved by mom and dad,
and siblings.
Lynne's Muffin was adopted tonight. Matt and Diane MacIntosh, who previously adopted Jasper from NBSTR, came to Petco last
Sunday, met Muffin and fell in love. ~ LeannL
We completed the home visit for the Duffy's this morning and right away they fell in love with Bertha. Bob is retired and will be home
most of the time and Karen has flexible hours. They already have a male sheltie that they adopted from another rescue and a huge
fenced in backyard for them to run around in. Their dogs seem the center of their lives and are spoiled rotten. It just felt right for both
parties and was a great match so Bertha stayed with them. Heather
April Hammel adopted Jasmine today. April had 2 beds and toys ready for her arrival. ~ June
Torrie has made herself right at home, is not one bit fazed with her surroundings and is acting as though she has lived here forever.
She is out of her panty for the moment and has used the pee pad already. She snorts like mad and most likely will snore like a
lumberjack. She is a little love bug. I have not stopped grinning since she arrived and we cannot thank Laura enough. ~ DebbyC
Cheryl and Jerry plan to adopt Rudy and Lily in early April.
Luke (aka Nico/Devon) was adopted by Bruce Priest at PetCo Harwood Heights. He has a new bed waiting for him at home. Bruce is
a yoga instructor, so I know he will give calm assertive energy to this puppy mill survivor. ~ June
Katie was adopted by Armida Baccega. Katie now has 2 brothers,and a blind horse,a mule and a fat cat.but Katie is the only one that
is able to sleep on the chaise lounge. She made herself right at home jumped and put her scent by rolling around on all the furniture
and the carpets. ~CindyB
Good Wishes and Thanks… Our dogs in their forever homes
One of the most heartwarming aspects of rescue, is the love between people and animals, the homes who welcome animals with love.
From people who believe in us, our dogs, and rescue:
Just wanted to let you know that our little Sparky is the most awesome dog in the whole world. He's at the groomer right now getting
even more handsome. Thank you for this incredible blessing in our lives. We ALL adore him!.Bonnie
I LOVE THIS DOG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You know, I really thought I made a mistake after he was here for a few days. I thought I just bit off
more than I could chew at this time in my life. I was so wrong. He is the sweetest dog I have ever had. He doesn't have a mean bone
in his body. But is he a sneak. He'll take shoes out of the closet and he thinks that no one sees him do it. He is also a little klutz. He
is like an adolescent, tripping and falling....so damn cute. We really lucked out. Thank you so much. ~ Rhonda
Bree is the love of my (our) life. I can’t imagine our life without her. She made her first new friend at the park yesterday. I am so proud
of her. She loves to be carried back home after a long walk to the park. All the other dogs give her dirty looks because they are not as
lucky and spoiled as her. God Bless You. ~ The Motts
I adopted Petunia in May 2006. Took a little while, but she now sleeps with me and follows we everywhere. The house is hers and she
lets me pay the bills. ~ Joanne Harper
From us to you: Thank you, more than we can ever express.
Find True Love: adopt a dog
Mei Ling and her new parents
Obie and Mary Fran
Jenny LaBuda and Family
Penny and mom
Cheryl and Lily
Jasmine and April
Torrie, Debby, Laura
(woof shirt available though WI Sheltie
Rescue)
Lapful of love
Dixie and Tommy
Rudy and Jerry
Silly and Spotty with their new family
Zac and friend
Some come into and out of your life
like shooting stars, leaving a lasting
imprint. ~ Carol
Bree, who came into rescue as a
frightened, matted puppy mill dog
two princesses
2 cats and 1 dog were at the refrigerator
Chris and fans
Tina and Tiger being cozy
Cracked and sore paws:
We’re nearing the end of winter – but in the upper Midwest there’s always that last snowfall. We know that snow melting crystals
are a health hazard and anti-freeze can kill dogs, but cold weather also can create cracked pads and leave snowballs on paws.
Everybody watch where you walk: there’s
landmines ahead. Look to your paws!
I need to worry about only half of them!
Cuddles: formerly terrified of humans,
fear biter, now the divine diva of the
Hines pack, loves the snow!
I just read something that said you could apply PAM, other cooking spray or a small amount of Vaseline to the paws and fur to keep
the snow from collecting in those areas. I read another that said mineral oil. Should we use butter flavored? ~ Gina T
Vaseline is very good plus it keeps the paws soft. ~ Marie F
Commercial products to help…
Orvis makes a product called Paw De-icer. It is in a spray bottle - apply to feet and legs and under belly - non-toxic for dogs application only lasts for the one outing however - so needs to be reapplied each time. Still, it could be a good solution. ~ Trish
There is a product called 'musher's wax' or 'musher's secret' - it's a wax/lanolin/??? product that gets rubbed into the fur, feet and
pads - it will stop the snow from sticking, keep the pads from cracking. They also recommend trimming the hair quite a bit in the
feet, between toes, up the legs... ~ Trish
Expo Season! Chicago Expo
This month’s committee meeting will
now come to order.
What about weight gain? Don’t you get
bloated if you drink beer?
I just got this outfit, and I want the daisy
to look good for a while. It’s from Lord
and Taylor.
Then you grow your hair a little longer. My
cousin Abigail loved beer. As a pup, she’d
take a running start, tip over that bottle,
and lap up the evidence. She gained a bit
of weight over the years…but that happens
to us all.
The good brand, I hope. That cheap
stuff has an aftertaste.
Speaking of cheap: The liver sausage
looks green. Did she color it, do you
think? Or should we worry?
Check the label: you can always tell if
something comes from L & T.
None for me, thanks. I started early.
She must have gotten a rear-view when
she was trying on swimsuits.
I’m thinking the pig tails plus the hat is a
little much. But my hairdresser said it’s the
“in” look, and I love the green ribbons.
Who brought the refreshments?
Sausage? More sausage? Green beer?
all portraits courtesy Rena Gail Lewin
All right: everybody look pretty for the camera. Is my hat on straight? Lift your chins. Smile!