Here's another sweet video that I thought I would pass on. –Kim

And God Made a Dog...

Source: http://www.youtube.com/embed/lJ7AfSO2fKs

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Also, see:
GoD and DoG
 

[Hazard] Kissing Your Dog or Cat

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

Pet Kissing Hazards?...

There has been much written of the hazards of having a pet lick you with their tongue.

In one articel I read, a few "experts" talked about some serious diseases... then they made the assertion that these diseases can be avoided by staying away from wet kisses.

Dr. X talked about ALL of the bacteria in dog's mouths – but in fact we humans have an even greater quantity of disease causing bacteria... huh?... perhaps, people should stop kissing?

Dr. Y talked about two diseases that can cause diarrhea – Campylobacter and Salmonella.

But here is what the Center for Disease Controls says about contracting Campylobacter:

How do people get infected with this germ?

Campylobacteriosis usually occurs in single, sporadic cases, but it can also occur in outbreaks, when a number of people become ill at one time. Most cases of campylobacteriosis are associated with eating raw or undercooked poultry meat or from cross-contamination of other foods by these items.
Infants may get the infection by contact with poultry packages in shopping carts. Outbreaks of Campylobacter are usually associated with unpasteurized milk or contaminated water.

As you can see... NOT from dogs and cats.

But what about Salmonella?

Here is what is on the CDC website:

How do people catch Salmonella?

Salmonella live in the intestinal tracts of humans and other animals, including birds. Salmonella are usually transmitted to humans by eating foods contaminated with animal feces.

Contaminated foods usually look and smell normal. Contaminated foods are often of animal origin, such as beef, poultry, milk, or eggs, but any food, including vegetables, may become contaminated. Thorough cooking kills Salmonella. Food may also become contaminated by the hands of an infected food handler who did not wash hands with soap after using the bathroom.

Once again... NOT from dogs and cats.

Can you get sick by contracting something from your pet?

Yes, but VERY UNLIKELY.

As stated by in the CDC Web site about theses diseases – the primary way that you contract them is through CONTAMINATED and UNDERCOOKED meat – usually poultry.

If you're really worried – well, become a vegetarian.

My point of this newsletter is two-fold:

1. Because it's in a glossy magazine and has PhD behind it STILL does NOT mean that it is a TRUE story.
   
   QUESTION the conventional beliefs that you hear and read.
   
   Do some of your own research.
   
   Clearly, the magazine article I read was NOT well researched... the writer started with the premise that it is NOT safe to have your pets lick you, then went out to "prove" it.
   
   Of course, a few seconds of research proves otherwise.
   
2. The BENEFITS of having a dog or cat "kiss" clearly outweigh ANY risk...
   
   When I get woken up in the morning with a big wet kiss from Lewis... well, I start my day in a GREAT frame of mind!

Best Wishes,
Dr Andrew Jones, DVM

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Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM has been a practicing Veterinarian for 20 years. He is a strong advocate of Natural Pet Health Care, and knows that the most important way to heal our pets and prevent disease is through proper nutrition. He developed Ultimate Canine to give our dogs that extra advantage – something that will provide them with everything they need to develop stronger immune systems to fight disease, heal sore or stiff joints, and help them live longer, happier lives. Dr. Andrew Jones' main focus is on alternative, non-traditional remedies for pets. His interest in alternative pet medicine culminated in the writing of his book, Veterinary Secrets Revealed.

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Goodbye, Arabella

Here's a sweet video that I thought I would pass on... –Kim

Rest in Peace, Sweet Girl

When we take in dogs from shelters, we never know much about their background or health. Arabella came to us with what seemed to be a skin infection, causing her to lose all her hair. Sadly, after ongoing treatment with a dermatologist was not improving how she felt overall, we consulted an oncologist. She had mast cell cancer and there was no treatment at that stage.

We appreciate the ongoing support many folks give us to help care for dogs in our rescue. Our "Sunshine Fund" exists to help pay for specialists and vet care that goes beyond the routine needs of most dogs. If you are able to contribute to our Sunshine Fund to help cover Bella's bills, we would be so grateful. Every little bit helps. Thank you.

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwBino8SdwI

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Real Love will always challenge selfishness...and in Rescue, love can come into our lives in different forms, and in ways we don't expect. When Bella came to Bald Is Beautiful we never guessed that BIB would be her forever home. She taught us many things while she was with us: things like courage and dignity in the face of death. Yes, even in dying, a small creature like a dog can teach us much about Life.

We are so grateful for Bella's time with us, and for the Divine hand that led her to us and gave us the honor of walking with her through this last part of her journey. Her foster family was with her when she needed them the most; they never gave up or abandoned her, standing with her until the end, so that Bella, who had experienced little mercy in her short life, could have a chance on earth to know a few months of love and kindness from a human being. In turn, Bella responded with the tenderness, vulnerability, trust and affection only an innocent animal can give. What a precious time Bella gave us.

Sweet Bella, fly free in your final Forever Home. You gave us so much, and we will never forget you. ♥

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Also, see: Rainbow Bridge
 

Chihuahua Says 'I Love You'?

Here's a couple of great videos that show how a dog can actually feel love! –Kim

Who Says Dogs Can't Love?!

 

Source: http://www.weather.com/video/    © 1995 - 2013. The Weather Channel, LLC weather.com® Licensed by TRUSTe  

Bathtime Fun!

Here's a really cute video that I thought I would pass on. –Kim

Bathtime Fun! Super Cute

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMuZdN84PJg

 

Dogs Make the Best Valentines

Here's a cute "Top 10" list about Valentines Day with your "best friend"! –Kim

10 Reasons Dogs Make the Best Valentines

Whether you've got a (human) sweetheart or not this February 14th, we all know the doggone truth: dogs make the best valentines! Read our Top 10 reasons why, and then tell us what makes your dog is the perfect valentine!

10. A dog never complains when you want to spend the night on the couch in sweatpants watching a New Girl marathon.

9. What five pound weight gain? Your dog didn't notice – or say anything when you sucked in your stomach on the scale.

8. Not only does your dog not mind eating leftovers, he actually prefers it.

7. You don't have to be self-conscious about needing a pedicure when a dog licks your toes.

6. Your morning breath is never going to be as bad as your dog's.

5. Your big, strong dog makes you feel safer than any alarm system.

4. Your dog will happily listen to you complain about your boss's/mother's/ex's wardrobe for the millionth time.

3. Your dog doesn't judge you for needing to slow down and take a breather on your run together; he's just happy to spend time with you.

2. Dogs don't steal the blankets at night. They do, however, fart in bed – so consider yourself warned!

1. No one in the universe loves you more than your dog.

Source: http://www.alettertomydog.com/tag/valentines-day/
© 2012 A Letter To My Dog

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Also, see: Yummy Valentine Dog Treats

So Many Needs...

Be a part of the solution... Together, we can make a difference! –Kim

Adopt or Foster, but DO Something!

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Also, see:

• The Plight of Black Dogs
• I'm a Good Dog...
• Top 10 Reasons Dogs are Dumped at Shelters
• Visit a Local Shelter

Mother Dog & Baby Boy

Here's a sweet video that I thought I would pass on... –Kim

Sweet Mama Dog with a Beautiful Down Syndrome Child

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JA8VJh0UJtg

Here's another cute video that I thought I would pass on for Christmas. –Kim

Puppy Christmas

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Also, see: Sleep in Heavenly Peace

10 Canine Commandments

Words to remember! –Kim

Ten Canine Commandments

The 10 Commandments from a Pet's Point of View (Revised)

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years, any separation from you will be painful for me. Remember that before you buy me.
2. Give me time to understand what you want from me, don't be impatient, short-tempered, or irritable.
3. Place your trust in me and I will always trust you back. Respect is earned, not given as an inalienable right.
4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment, I am not capable of understanding why. I only know I have been rejected. You have your work entertainment and friends, I only have you.
5. Talk to me sometimes, even if I don't understand your words I understand your voice and your tone. "You only have to look at my tail."
6. Be aware that however you treat me I'll never forget it, and if it's cruel, it may affect me forever.
7. Please don't hit me, I can't hit back, but I can bite and scratch and I really don't ever want to do that.
8. Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right foods or I've been out in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak, I may be just dog tired.
9. Take care of me when I get old. You too will grow old and may also need love, care, comfort and attention.
10. Go with me on difficult journeys, never say, "I can't bear to watch" or "Let it happen in my absence." Everything is easier for me if you are there. Remember, irrespective of what you do, I will always love you.

Source: http://midislanddogpark.org/ten.html
© Stan Rawlinson 1993
Author's Note: I changed this slightly from my initial 1993 poem; this is the final draft version 1998.

A very sweet video... –Kim

Just a Dog?

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRgbO5Db9Ns

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Just a dog?...

A wise man once said to me: "Love is never wasted."

To those who don't understand, I only ask that you leave room for others like me to follow their hearts and love God's creatures while we're here on earth.

Maybe it is "just a dog," but they can love and they can feel pain. And in God's mercy, I can't just sit by and do nothing. I can be there for them and love them. It's the least I can do.

– Kim

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Also, see:
"Just a Dog?" poem

She Changed Our Lives Forever...

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

A Letter to Lily's Breeder

by National Mill Dog Rescue

Reprinted below is a letter Theresa Strader, the founder of National Mill Dog Rescue (Facebook page), wrote to the breeder of her beloved Lily. For those who don't know, Lily is the reason National Mill Dog Rescue exists today.

May 15, 2008

Dear Martha,
It's been fifteen months since you and I first met. More than likely, you remember very little about me. After all, we met in your world, on your property, in fact. Since that day, elements of your world have become a very big part of mine. For that, myself and many like-minded people are very thankful to you.

In February 2007, I received an email – "50 Italian Greyhounds in need" – and with that, a phone number. Having had a lifetime affinity for the breed, I called the number to find out what the story was and how I might be able to help. I'm certain you know where this letter is going now.

Yes, February 17, 2007, after 40+ years, your kennel would be going out of business. Time to retire and relax after four decades of mistreating dogs. Five hundred and sixty one dogs would head to the auction blocks that day, 49 were Italian Greyhounds. It was without question that I would help, though I must admit, I had no idea what I would come to learn through the process. Due to transportation issues, I realized that if I were to be of any use to these dogs, I would have to drive out to Lamar myself. So, on the 16th of February, my daughter and I headed to Missouri.

Understand, I've been involved in dog rescue essentially my entire life – fostering and placing homeless dogs, caring for sick or injured dogs, assisting overpopulated shelters, etc. I have always known about puppy mills and pet store puppies, but have never shared my home with anything other than rescued animals. For the record, I AM NOT AN ANIMAL RIGHTS ACTIVIST. What I am is a person who believes in the right to humane treatment for all living things.

Martha, what I witnessed on your property was far from humane. Hundreds of terrified ailing faces, imprisoned in their wire confines, some staring at me, but most too fearful to look into my eyes, so unsure of how to interpret human contact. That experience has caused me countless sleepless nights and to this very day, the sadness and the fear in their eyes haunts my very being.

I am completely aware that you were operating well within USDA standards – what a despicable thought that is. I am also aware that in your circles, commercial breeding dogs are considered livestock. Dogs are not livestock, Martha. Thousands of years ago, man domesticated dogs to be our protectors, hunters, herders, guardians, but most of all, our companions.

I came home with thirteen of your dogs – nine Italian Greyhounds, two Dachshunds and two Papillons. Not a single dog that I had cared for in over 25 years of rescue work came anywhere close to the physical and emotional damage that your dogs had suffered. As it related to rescuing dogs, the next several months would become the education of a lifetime for me.

The entire purpose of this letter, though, is about just one of those dogs, the one who would find her forever home here with my family..... #251 – AKC registered "Reedgate's Swift Motion." Oh, the irony of her name – Swift Motion – an Italian Greyhound who was never able to run. Caging her for her entire life stripped her of ever having enough strength in her legs to experience the joy of running. A cruel reality for a breed built to run.

In our home, we cut the chain from her neck, replaced it with a soft collar and named her Lily. At the age of seven years and one month, Lily had been set free.

Lily was one of several of your dogs that was missing her lower jaw. I wonder how you might explain why so many of your dogs were suffering from this condition. I wonder if you were ever concerned about their pain or perhaps about how they were able to eat enough to stay alive. I wonder how many died in your care from the results of this condition. I wonder if you even noticed. I'm very certain you did notice one thing beyond the rotting faces, though – their ability to produce puppies. That's what your business is all about – producing puppies at any expense.

Lily became an absolute treasure in our home. Despite her many health issues and her extreme fear, in time, with lots of love and care, she found her courage, and when she did, no one was immune to her love. Men, women and children brought to tears to hear her story and to have the untold pleasure of meeting her. Lily's life was no longer about what she could do for you but instead, how we could make it up to her in a warm and loving home.

It was agonizing for our family to watch her suffer through four surgeries to remove mammary tumors, to attempt to repair her decaying face and to spay her – removing the papery black, pus-filled organ that was once her uterus. How selfish of you never to see her pain, just the dollars.

Directly because of your gross neglect, every meal Lily ate was a struggle. We tried so many foods and so many different ways to make it easier for her to eat. But in the end, she had to do it her way, the way she learned at your place, the way she kept herself alive for you – picking kibbles out of her bowl, a few at a time with her feet, spreading them around the floor, then rubbing the "good" side of her face along the floor to catch a kibble on her tongue, then extending her neck upwards and swallowing it whole. Think about that, Martha. How would you like to eat just one meal that way?

Do you remember sitting in my car when the auction was over? The guys were gathering up the dogs that I had "won." You said to me, "I just love my Italian Greyhounds." Oh, the thoughts that went through my mind when those words came out of your mouth. You don't love any dogs, Martha. What you did was spend more than forty years of your God-given life using dogs for your personal gain. No regard to their physical or mental well-being, just cashing in on their ability to reproduce. Think about the thousands of dogs that passed through your hands – you robbed every single one of them of the simple joys they so deserve. A good meal, a warm and comfortable place to sleep, medical attention, and most of all, a human companion to make their lives whole.

Lily learned so much in our home – about being a family member, being a dog, being worthy. I will always be bothered that she never learned how to run or really how to play. But she learned how to love and be loved, and for that, there are no words. She changed our lives forever.

Lily died on May 13, 2008 at the age of eight – about half the life expectancy for an Italian Greyhound. Martha, she died as a direct result of the neglect she suffered for seven years in your care. How many others have suffered the same fate?

This industry has been hidden far too long. The word is out, the days are numbered. People like you will soon venture out into fields of honest work and leave the care of God's creatures to those of us who truly love them.

Theresa Strader

Web site: http://www.milldogrescue.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalMillDogRescue
Blog: http://nationalmilldogrescue.blogspot.com

Source: http://www.milldogrescue.org/Theresas_Letter.html

Copyright © 2012, National Mill Dog Rescue

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Also, see:

• Lily's Story
• Lily's Tribute
• VIDEO: Meet Lily (Quicktime video format)
• 10 Reasons NOT to Buy a Puppy from a Pet Store
• America's Nasty Secret...
• What is a Responsible Breeder?

Adopting a Pet May Extend Your Life

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

Saving a Pet Might Just Save Your Life

Having a pet not only fills your heart with unconditional love, but there are other mental and physical benefits to being a pet owner. A longer life, less anxiety and stress are just a few of the benefits of saving a pet. Even therapists have prescribed a pet as a way of dealing with depression.

More than 4.3 million animals enter into shelters each year. Check out the infographic below to learn more about how saving a pet might just save YOUR life.

Click Picture to Enlarge

Source: http://www.carltonhobbs.net/animal-rescue-infographic/
© 2012 Carlton Hobbs Network Weblog

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Also, see:

• Who Rescued Who?
• Seniors Benefit from Shelter Dogs
• List of No-kill Pet Shelters and Rescues

Having Kittens for Lunch

Here's a sweet video that I thought I'd pass on... –Kim

Kittens for Lunch

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrOtf8X7P1g

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Also, see:

• When Dogs Do the Adopting
• Abandoned Greyhound becomes Surrogate Mother for 50th Time

Animals are Forever...

Here's a great picture that I thought I would pass on. –Kim

I Don't Have Time for "It" Anymore...

I'm getting new furniture...
We're having a baby...
We're moving...
I'm getting new carpet...
I don't have time for "it" anymore...
Bought "it" for my kids...
"It" wasn't what I expected...
Trading "it" in for a puppy...
"It" won't listen to me...
"It" wants too much attention...
I hate picking up after "it"...
Have to get rid of "it"...
"It" has to be gone today...

"It" once had a name...
"It" had a home...
Animals are forever, not for "now"...

—Tia

Source: https://pinterest.com/pin/183803228511838122/

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Adoption is not a short-term hobby. It's a lifelong commitment. Innocent dogs like this don't understand why their owner/family dumped them at a kill shelter. There may be lots of reasons, but in the end, the dog pays the price with his or her own life. Before you go to a breeder or retail pet store, visit a local shelter. Adopt a quality pet and save a life! –Kim

Also, see:

• I'm a Good Dog...
  
• Top 10 Reasons Dogs are Dumped at Shelters

Puppy Easter

How cute! –Kim

Puppy Easter

Source: Life with Dogs

Let's be Friends!

Here are some sweet pictures that I thought I would pass on... –Kim

Best Friends Forever

Everybody Loves Puppies

Here are two great pictures that makes two great points! –Kim

Older Dogs Love Everybody

Source: http://www.icanhascheezburger.com

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Also, see:
List of No-kill Shelters and Rescues

Yummy Valentine Dog Treats for Your Dog

Here's a great recipe that I thought I would pass on...hope your family pal enjoys this! –Kim

Peanut Butter Valentine Doggie Biscuits

Ingredients:

3 tbsp. peanut butter
1/2 cup flax oil
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups water
2 cups flour
1/2 cup oats
1/2 cup cornmeal

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Beat together peanut butter and eggs, then beat in oil and water.

Thoroughly mix flour, oats and cornmeal separately. Add the flour mixture to the peanut butter mixture and blend well to form a dough.

Roll out the dough to approx. 1/4 inch thickness and cut into heart shapes, or just slice them into heart shapes for your doggie valentine.

Place on lightly greased cookie sheet, leaving about 1/2 inch between biscuits. Bake for 20 minutes until browned.

P.S. If you'd rather not bake, you can always buy something. My supplements are seen by many pets as a treat, and are helping in many common diseases.

Best Wishes and Happy Baking!
Dr. Andrew Jones

Source: http://www.theonlinevet.com/
Copyright 2012 Four Paws Online Ltd.

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Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM has been a practicing Veterinarian for almost 20 years. He is a strong advocate of Natural Pet Health Care, and knows that the most important way to heal our pets and prevent disease is through proper nutrition. He developed Ultimate Canine to give our dogs that extra advantage – something that will provide them with everything they need to develop stronger immune systems to fight disease, heal sore or stiff joints, and help them live longer, happier lives. Dr. Andrew Jones' main focus is on alternative, non-traditional remedies for pets. His interest in alternative pet medicine culminated in the writing of his book, Veterinary Secrets Revealed.

If I Didn't Have a Dog...

Here are some great quotes that I thought I would pass on...hope you can relate! –Kim

I came across this on the Web this week:

"Until one has loved an animal, part of their soul remains unawakened."

If I Didn't Have a Dog...

I could walk around the yard barefoot in safety.

All flat surfaces, clothing, furniture and cars would be free of hair.

When the doorbell rings, it wouldn't sound like a kennel.

When the doorbell rings, I could get to the door without wading through fuzzy bodies who beat me there.

I could sit on the couch and my bed the way I wanted, without taking into consideration how much space several fur bodies would need to get comfortable.

I would have money and no guilt to go on a real vacation.

I would not be on a first-name basis with numerous veterinarians, as I put their yet unborn grand kids through college.

The most used words in my vocabulary would not be: out, sit, down, come, no, stay, and leave him/her/it ALONE.

My house would not look like a day care center, with toys everywhere.

I would not have as many leaves INSIDE my house as outside.

I would not look strangely at people who think having ONE dog/cat ties them down too much.

I'd look forward to spring and the rainy season instead of dreading 'mud' season.

I would not have to answer the question: 'Why do you have so many animals?' from people who will never have the joy in their lives of knowing they are loved unconditionally by someone as close to an angel as they will ever get.

How EMPTY my life would be!!!

Source: http://karendecoster.com/until-one-has-loved-an-animal-part-of-their-soul-remains-unawakened.html