Can't believe Christmas is less than one month away! While brave people went out at 4 am this morning to fight for sales, my pups were snuggled all safe in their beds. Sadly, too many pups I know were not. Shelter Link invites you to foster with us this holiday season, and make a big impact on the lives of those who didn't ask for they life they were given. Shelter Link sponsors all the dogs we have in foster care, and covers all expenses. We are always fund raising to cover these expenses and to fund our other programs, like our spay/neuter program. If you are unable to foster, perhaps you could donate to our cause. Any amount is greatly appreciated, and no amount is too small. We are growing, and appreciate your support.
Also, come down and see us in the Annual Sayville Holiday Parade this Saturday morning at 9 am. It's sure to be fun for the kids, and will put you in the holiday spirit! Skye and Sammy will be marching in this year's parade. Maybe you would like to meet them too!
Thanks for reading, Happy Black Friday!
Happy Thanksgiving!
From all of us at Shelter Link and Pilgrim Cleo, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!
"Grandpa" Jack...
I have affectionately dubbed Shelter Link volunteer and certified dog trainer Jack, "Grandpa Jack". Jack is amazing to watch with dogs, and I have learned so much from him. His behaviorist approach to dog training never ceases to amaze me. Not only is he an amazing trainer, he truly just enjoys being with dogs.
He'll call me and ask if the dogs are available to go for a run. It's like setting up a doggy play date. He comes, all suited up, for a nice bike ride with my girls, and will go down into the trails at Heckscher State Park. They'll ride for awhile, stop and relax in the sun, taking in nature, and sometimes even stop at the deli for some cheese for the girls and coffee for Jack. It reminds me of when my step father would take my oldest when she was a baby on long walks in her stroller, and stop by Carvel and share an ice cream, hence me dubbing Jack "Grandpa".
The significance of these outings are profound. Not only do my dogs get their much needed exercise, they get to be dogs, and explore their surroundings and get back to what they are hardwired to do. We have humanized dogs so much, and they spend most of their time trapped in a house. This doesn't make them happy despite what you may believe. Humanizing dogs is largely responsible for what we deem as "bad" behavior in dogs. They are not human, they don't understand our language, and they need dog experiences. When dogs get to use their noses to explore their environment they are engaged and mentally stimulated. This drains them of excess energy, and will relax you too. Couple it with a nice walk or run, and you will see a very content dog, who isn't hyped up. They will also put you higher up on their resource scale, and listen to you better. The best time to do some training with your dog is right after a walk or run. All you need is 5 minutes. It can be simple, like working on sit or stay.
I will write more on the behavior theory I have learned and how to apply it to dog training at a later date. It is truly amazing stuff. But the best way to build a relationship with your dog, is just by being with them and enjoying a nice activity together, like a walk or run. And be in the moment, don't chat on your cell phone or think about what you have to do tomorrow, just be. This will be just as beneficial for your mental state as it will be for your dog's.
This is the picture of three happy girls, who are ready for a nap after enjoying one of their favorite experiences with "Grandpa Jack". They come home different dogs than when they left, sated and content with life. Happy to have been "dogs" for a few hours.
He'll call me and ask if the dogs are available to go for a run. It's like setting up a doggy play date. He comes, all suited up, for a nice bike ride with my girls, and will go down into the trails at Heckscher State Park. They'll ride for awhile, stop and relax in the sun, taking in nature, and sometimes even stop at the deli for some cheese for the girls and coffee for Jack. It reminds me of when my step father would take my oldest when she was a baby on long walks in her stroller, and stop by Carvel and share an ice cream, hence me dubbing Jack "Grandpa".
The significance of these outings are profound. Not only do my dogs get their much needed exercise, they get to be dogs, and explore their surroundings and get back to what they are hardwired to do. We have humanized dogs so much, and they spend most of their time trapped in a house. This doesn't make them happy despite what you may believe. Humanizing dogs is largely responsible for what we deem as "bad" behavior in dogs. They are not human, they don't understand our language, and they need dog experiences. When dogs get to use their noses to explore their environment they are engaged and mentally stimulated. This drains them of excess energy, and will relax you too. Couple it with a nice walk or run, and you will see a very content dog, who isn't hyped up. They will also put you higher up on their resource scale, and listen to you better. The best time to do some training with your dog is right after a walk or run. All you need is 5 minutes. It can be simple, like working on sit or stay.
I will write more on the behavior theory I have learned and how to apply it to dog training at a later date. It is truly amazing stuff. But the best way to build a relationship with your dog, is just by being with them and enjoying a nice activity together, like a walk or run. And be in the moment, don't chat on your cell phone or think about what you have to do tomorrow, just be. This will be just as beneficial for your mental state as it will be for your dog's.
This is the picture of three happy girls, who are ready for a nap after enjoying one of their favorite experiences with "Grandpa Jack". They come home different dogs than when they left, sated and content with life. Happy to have been "dogs" for a few hours.
Friday's Friends...
Yup, it's that day again already, time for Friday's Friends.
Check out Timmy! Timmy hasn't always had an easy life, and he would love to be a part of your family. Don't let the fact that he only has 3 legs fool you, this loving boy can still run and play with the best of them! Timmy is about 2 years old, and does need to be the only animal in your home. He's had a rough life, so won't you give him the happy ending he deserves? Read more about Timmy here.
Or what about Simon and Theodore? These two sweet male Wheaten Terriers came in together, and if at all possible, we would love to see them stay together. These two will sniff the same grain of sand at the same time. It is hysterical to see them together. They are both goofy and fun loving guys, who deserve a chance at a forever home. See more about them here, and here.
Here we have Miss Fiona. Fiona is a small am staff mix with big personality. She absolutely loves people and is very affectionate. Fiona has received lots of training at the shelter, and it is amazing to watch her work. They say statistically it is tough to get black dogs, yet alone a black am staff mix adopted, so why not come down, and fall in love with Fiona, and debunk those statistics.
See more about Fiona here.
Thanks for reading and Happy Friday!
See more about Fiona here.
Thanks for reading and Happy Friday!
Peanut...
There she is! Check out that smile! Peanut is really enjoying her new foster home and family. They think she is just beautiful, and are already smitten with her. She really loves baking in the sun, looking out their front door.
Is there anything better than seeing that?! This girl has been laying on cold cement for quite some time in the shelter, so I am sure this is heaven to her. It is precious to see her this way, enjoying such a simple thing like looking out the door. Her foster family, good friends of mine, tell me, this is one of her favorite things to do.
And there she is enjoying her new back yard. Her foster mama tells me she loves to run around the back yard, and even buried one of her treats yesterday. Too cute! For those of us at the shelter, there is nothing sweeter than seeing one of our favorite dogs finally get the life she deserves. She is adjusting very well to her new home, and loves playing with her toys, laying on her comfy bed and being loved by her family.
She is particularly fond of her foster Daddy, and I am pretty sure, he with her. ;) There is nothing like seeing a 6 foot man reduced to mush by a 70 lb dog. Look at her snuggling up, while he is petting her.
I am going to see Peanut today, and can't wait to see her out of the shelter environment! Shelter Link member and dog trainer, Jack, has spent lots of time at Peanut's new home, and has given Peanut what I like to call "Jack" days. These are special days for any dog. Jack loves to take the dogs for long bike rides, and just spend quality time with them, letting them experience the world. Every dog should have a Jack day. Francey, Peanuts foster mommy, tells me they have learned so much already from Jack. He has given them the knowledge and tools to use with not only Peanut, but their own pooch, Max. Francey and her family are so grateful for this experience and are so happy to give Peanut a loving home.
Peanut thanks you for reading, and thinks everyone should foster a loving dog like her. It will be an amazing journey for you! Shelter Link is so happy to have 3 dogs in foster care, 2 of them Pits. Kringle and Precious still need foster families. Please consider coming down and meeting them. You would be giving them a chance at a new life. Click here to see more about Kringle and Precious.
Be An Advocate...
I got a very disturbing email yesterday from a concerned individual, who believes her neighbor is abusing a Pitbull puppy, and possibly getting it ready for fighting. She has gone down the right avenues to seek hep, but her story seems to be falling on deaf ears. She isn't going to give up, and will continue to try to get help for this poor baby. One good thing, she was told that there was an ongoing investigation, perhaps into a fighting ring. So maybe help will come soon.
This is reality. It could be your neighbor, your street, your town. Pitbull fighting and abuse happens here. You would be jaded to think otherwise. Be an advocate. Be a savior. If you suspect animal cruelty, report it. Don't turn a blind eye and think it will just go away. It won't. These dogs need you. They need your voice. Your voice is power.
I have to warn you, this video does contain some disturbing images, but is very powerful.
Thinking about adding a dog to your family, why not go down to your local shelter, and give a Pitbull a chance at a beautiful life. You won't be disappointed.
This is reality. It could be your neighbor, your street, your town. Pitbull fighting and abuse happens here. You would be jaded to think otherwise. Be an advocate. Be a savior. If you suspect animal cruelty, report it. Don't turn a blind eye and think it will just go away. It won't. These dogs need you. They need your voice. Your voice is power.
I have to warn you, this video does contain some disturbing images, but is very powerful.
Thinking about adding a dog to your family, why not go down to your local shelter, and give a Pitbull a chance at a beautiful life. You won't be disappointed.
Wow!
What a big day at the Islip Animal Shelter yesterday! It was so busy. We had six adoptions yesterday! That is huge! And Peanut, one of the beautiful pitbulls, is now at a loving foster home. Yeah Peanut!!!! It truly doesn't get better than that. Everyone was just so excited yesterday seeing all the happy families walk out with their new canine companions. But we still have lots of beautiful dogs and cats waiting for their families. Come down and meet them! It would be so nice for our friends at the shelter to be home for the holidays.
A funny aside...the other day, I let Skye in and she still had the leash attached. I was in the kitchen. I look and see Cleo, my pit, walking past with Skye's leash in her mouth with Skye in tow. It was so darn cute, and seriously funny!
Enjoy this beautiful day!
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| Peanut meeting her new foster brother, Max. |
Enjoy this beautiful day!
The Walk...
It was a long week here. Just lots of work to do, kids to take care of, etc. So this morning, Skye and I started the weekend off right with a nice walk. We left the house around 7:30 and walked for about 45 minutes. It's such a nice time to get out and walk. Most people are still starting off their mornings in their home. It's quiet and peaceful. The birds are chirping, the squirrels are foraging, all seems right in the world. I love taking the dogs out this early. It helps me decompress from a long week, and relax the tension built up in my body. It does the same for dogs.
Skye starts out much like a drunk driver, weaving back and forth, distracted by every sound and smell. Then about 5 minutes in, she relaxes and settles into a nice rhythm. Ears back, head up, and feet steadily moving. It's great to see her act like a dog, enjoying her surroundings. No worries, no tension, just calm energy. We stopped and chatted along the way with a nice woman and her dog. Skye stood by my side very relaxed, and waited for me to move on. Truly the picture of great doggy behavior. She'd pause here and there to sniff the ground and explore a bit.
The walk is a very powerful thing. It's not only a great bonding experience for you and your dog, it helps to drain your dog of excited energy, lessening the chance for bad behavior. Not to mention the health benefits for yourself. I was very guilty myself, not walking my own dogs until recently. There was always an excuse... I don't have time, they don't do well on the leash, it's cold, etc. This lead to a lot of pent up energy in my Pitbull and Lab, which caused disruptive behavior in my home. They had all this energy, and nowhere to displace it. Now that I walk them, their behavior at home has improved dramatically. Don't get me wrong, they were never bad dogs, just would do things to get into trouble here and there. Stealing the kids' toys, playing a little too rough with each other, not always listening to my commands, barking at every little sound. But when I walk them, they are completely different dogs, so enjoyable to be around.
If you find your own dog is having some behavior issues, whether it be excited, nervous, whatever, try walking them. You will see as you go along, the difference it will make. Keep yourself relaxed, and they will follow your lead. It may take a few times for you to find your rhythm together, but trust me, you will.
For me, there is nothing more empowering than walking a calm, happy seventy pound Pitbull at my side.
Have a great day!
Skye starts out much like a drunk driver, weaving back and forth, distracted by every sound and smell. Then about 5 minutes in, she relaxes and settles into a nice rhythm. Ears back, head up, and feet steadily moving. It's great to see her act like a dog, enjoying her surroundings. No worries, no tension, just calm energy. We stopped and chatted along the way with a nice woman and her dog. Skye stood by my side very relaxed, and waited for me to move on. Truly the picture of great doggy behavior. She'd pause here and there to sniff the ground and explore a bit.
The walk is a very powerful thing. It's not only a great bonding experience for you and your dog, it helps to drain your dog of excited energy, lessening the chance for bad behavior. Not to mention the health benefits for yourself. I was very guilty myself, not walking my own dogs until recently. There was always an excuse... I don't have time, they don't do well on the leash, it's cold, etc. This lead to a lot of pent up energy in my Pitbull and Lab, which caused disruptive behavior in my home. They had all this energy, and nowhere to displace it. Now that I walk them, their behavior at home has improved dramatically. Don't get me wrong, they were never bad dogs, just would do things to get into trouble here and there. Stealing the kids' toys, playing a little too rough with each other, not always listening to my commands, barking at every little sound. But when I walk them, they are completely different dogs, so enjoyable to be around.
If you find your own dog is having some behavior issues, whether it be excited, nervous, whatever, try walking them. You will see as you go along, the difference it will make. Keep yourself relaxed, and they will follow your lead. It may take a few times for you to find your rhythm together, but trust me, you will.
For me, there is nothing more empowering than walking a calm, happy seventy pound Pitbull at my side.
Have a great day!
Friday's Friends...
Here are this week's Friday's Friends. If you are not ready to adopt, why not try fostering with us? You get the benefit of getting to know the dog you choose first, with tons of support from Shelter Link. Shelter Link takes care of all medical costs, all you need to do is open your home and heart. As a doggy foster mommy, I can't say enough how rewarding this experience is for me. Being able to nurture Skye and watch her be a dog is just awesome! Every day we find joy having her here.
Oh my girl Peanut, how I love her so much! All of us at the shelter do. She is just the most wonderful sweet girl ever! Her favorite thing to do is snuggle up against you. She thinks she is a lap dog! Her coat is super soft, and you couldn't find a more gentle girl. She would make an amazing addition to any family. She loves to just hang out. Peanut needs to be with a family without cats. Won't you come down and meet Peanut? I guarantee you, you will instantly fall in love with her! See more about Peanut here.
Oh my girl Peanut, how I love her so much! All of us at the shelter do. She is just the most wonderful sweet girl ever! Her favorite thing to do is snuggle up against you. She thinks she is a lap dog! Her coat is super soft, and you couldn't find a more gentle girl. She would make an amazing addition to any family. She loves to just hang out. Peanut needs to be with a family without cats. Won't you come down and meet Peanut? I guarantee you, you will instantly fall in love with her! See more about Peanut here.
Or what about Dodger? Such a mellow sweet guy! Just a big sweetheart with a happy wagging tail, who we all think is just the best! He's the kind of dog who is happy to lay by your feet and just hang out, or play ball ball with you. He is a mixed breed, approximately 5 years old. Dodger is so gentle and loving. He would be perfect for any family looking for a sweet loving guy. See more about Dodger here.
Or maybe you are looking for a feline friend. We always have lots of beautiful cats and kittens at the shelter waiting for families.
Whatever your preference of pet and temperament, Islip Animal Shelter is sure to have what you are looking for! Please come by and see for yourself all the great animals we have! Adopting from us means you give a new life to a pet in need.
Happy Friday!
Food for Thought...
This was written by a woman about fostering shelter dogs...really put things into perspective for me.
Please consider fostering with us, and making a positive history with one of our beautiful loving dogs...
Where my dogs came from isn't as important as where they are going. With rescues, sometimes we know. Often we don't.
Every dog was once a puppy. Any number of things could be factors in getting them to where they were the day before they came here but those were yesterday. Now we concentrate on today with an eye towards tomorrow.
We're not going to repeat history because WE don't have a history. Yet. Eventually our todays will combine and we will have a history but it will be OUR history. Our history will provide a predictability that we can build upon. A trust.
What happened when a dog was 6 weeks old, 8 months old, or 2 years old impacted him - has an affect on who is standing before me, but what's important is where we go from here.
~author unknown
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| Isabel, a beautiful Weimaraner mix at the Islip Animal Shelter |
Please consider fostering with us, and making a positive history with one of our beautiful loving dogs...
We Need Your Help ASAP!
We have two beautiful dogs we need to find foster homes for asap. If you can't foster, please spread the word for us, and help us get these two amazing dogs on their way to their forever home.
Meet the very handsome Kringle. Kringle sadly has spent most of his life in a shelter. When I adopted Cleo last November, he was the puppy next to her, so imagine my surprise and sadness to see he was still there when I started to volunteer in August. All of us at Shelter Link just adore him. He has the most beautiful unique eyes you will ever see. When you look into them, they will steal your heart. He is a great guy who deserves a chance at being in a real home, a foster home on his way to his forever family. Maybe you can open your heart to foster or adopt him. Kringle is around 1 1/2 years old. He loves to play with other dogs and is good with children. If interested please contact us asap. Read more on Kringle here.
Look at Little Miss Precious! She reminds me so much of my dog, Cleo. Precious is such a great girl who loves people. She loves to play ball, is super curious and just plain silly. If you love to cuddle, she is your girl! She is quite the princess and needs to be the only animal in your home. She is a beautiful brindle terrier mix, who will only put smiles on your face. Your life will truly be enriched by her. Contact us asap if you can help Precious. See more about her here.
I can tell you from first hand experience, this will be an amazing journey for you,these are both great dogs, and you will have unlimited support from Shelter Link. All you need to do, is open your home and your heart.
If you want to really rescue a dog, save a life, and make a difference in this world, please foster a dog with us.
Look at Little Miss Precious! She reminds me so much of my dog, Cleo. Precious is such a great girl who loves people. She loves to play ball, is super curious and just plain silly. If you love to cuddle, she is your girl! She is quite the princess and needs to be the only animal in your home. She is a beautiful brindle terrier mix, who will only put smiles on your face. Your life will truly be enriched by her. Contact us asap if you can help Precious. See more about her here.
I can tell you from first hand experience, this will be an amazing journey for you,these are both great dogs, and you will have unlimited support from Shelter Link. All you need to do, is open your home and your heart.
If you want to really rescue a dog, save a life, and make a difference in this world, please foster a dog with us.
Prejudice...
Oh no! Watch out! There's a pitbull dangerously close to that little girl's head!
Yes, I am being sarcastic. Very sarcastic. I mean really, doesn't she look so menacing? I see prejudice against this breed all the time, and it not only saddens me, it makes me angry. Let me give you an example.
I took Skye to the vet Saturday for a checkup. She did pretty well. Every new experience for Skye makes her very nervous. The scale was a challenge for her, so after trying to coax her onto it and failing, I just picked her up and put her on it. Risky, right? I mean, this 70 lb pitbull could have turned around and bit me (heavy sarcasm). The exam room was tough for her, as it was very cavernous in feel, and echoed terribly. But she made it through it, and has a clean bill of health.
While back out in the waiting area to wait for Skye's heartworm test results, which were negative...phew, a woman and her husband come out of another exam room across the way with their three little dogs. Skye was laying on the floor by my feet, completed relaxed. She picked her head up to see what these three little dogs were excited about, and their female owner looks at Skye, nervously says Oh no, and proceeds to rush two of her dogs out to the car, leaving her husband standing there with one, wondering where she was going. Skye is laying there minding her own business, and because she picked her head up to see what all the fuss was about with these three excited dogs, fell victim to common pitbull prejudice.
I couldn't help myself, I was annoyed and hurt for Skye, who is anything but a mean terrifying pitbull. She, in fact, is a victim. I look at the husband, a pretty scary looking dude himself, in a black leather jacket with tattoos and earrings (I'm being sarcastic again), and say to him, she, meaning Skye, is more afraid of you than you are of her. She picked her head up because your dogs were all excited. She wouldn't do anything, and I've got her. Yup, couldn't help myself, I had to defend her. The wife thoroughly aggravated me with her blatant prejudice. I think the man was taken aback by me, and just grunted a quick uh, huh, very cave man. (there's that sarcasm again...)
Do you know who I blame this on, the media, who only give this breed negative attention, and the irresponsible owners who abuse and neglect this breed. Skye most definitely was abused and mistreated by people in her past life, causing her to be so afraid. Meanwhile, she is the most gentle girl, great with children. Why doesn't the media focus instead on educating the public about this breed, and the thousands that are abused, neglected and murdered.
I am angry at the people who did this to Skye, who took away her trust of people and made her so fearful, that even going out my front door to do her business, is an overwhelming experience for her.
Now that I am sure I have a few of you shaking your heads in disgust at the prejudice this breed falls victim to, I will get off my soapbox.
Skye is a beautiful girl, just stunning, and she is looking for her forever home. One where her owners will be patient and understanding with her, and guide her with love to trust again, and move past her fear. She is doing very well here, has bonded with me, and is great with my children, giving them daily face washes. She is housebroken, responds well to training exercises and corrections, and thrives on the positive attention and reinforcement we give her. She truly is a gem, with the cutest big jowls, super soft coat and short chunky spotted paws. You just can't help but want to kiss her all the time! The trainers at Shelter Link have been working with her, and will continue to do so with her new family, so that one day, hopefully soon, she can be the happy girl she was meant to be.
I would keep her in a heartbeat, but that isn't the goal here. The goal is for us to be the go-between, and be able to continue fostering more needy dogs. Maybe you are interested in her, or maybe you know someone who would be the perfect match. Please help us by spreading Skye's story so she can find her forever family. You can contact us here to talk about adopting Skye.
Skye thanks you for reading, and give you a big wet kiss!
Guardian Angel...
I came across this article and had to share it. What an amazing story! Angels show up when you least expect it.
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- The wandering 65-pound Pit Bull mix might have seemed menacing to some passerby, but one woman will always remember him as her "guardian angel."
The dog, which authorities think is lost and not a stray, successfully thwarted a robbery attack on a mother and her 2-year-old son, who were held at knifepoint Monday afternoon.
The Florida woman, who has been identified by authorities simply as "Angela," was leaving a playground with her toddler son in Port Charlotte when a man approached her in the parking lot with a knife and told her not to make any noise or sudden movements.
Angela didn't have to do either to protect herself and her child -- a dog mysteriously ran to the scene and charged the man, who quickly fled.
"I don't think the dog physically attacked the man, but he went at him and was showing signs of aggression, just baring his teeth and growling and barking. It was clear he was trying to defend this woman," Animal Control Lt. Brian Jones told Pet Pulse.
"I don't know what this man's intentions were, but it is very possible this dog saved her life."
The exceptional part of the story, Jones said, is that the dog had never met or even seen the people it quickly jumped to defend.
"You hear about family dogs protecting their owners, but this dog had nothing to do with this woman or her kid," Jones said. "He was like her guardian angel."
After the alleged thief ran away, Angela quickly placed her son, Jordan, in the car and tried to drive off. Before she could, though, the dog jumped into her backseat, waiting with her for the police and animal control officers to arrive at the scene.
The dog was transported to a local shelter and if his owners don't step forward within five days, Jones said, Angela and her family plan to adopt the savior she named "Angel."
Animal control officers and shelter workers believe Angel is lost, and not a stray, because of his good health, sturdy weight and mild temperament.
"It's funny, that someone's irresponsibility could have saved someone's life," Jones said of Angel's possible owners.
For Angela, it doesn't matter where the dog came from, just that he was there when she needed him most.
"I don't know what his [the thief's] intentions were -- I don't know why he did it, but I'm glad that -- we call him Angel -- I'm glad that Angel showed up because I don't know what would have happened," Angela told NBC2 News.
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- The wandering 65-pound Pit Bull mix might have seemed menacing to some passerby, but one woman will always remember him as her "guardian angel."
The dog, which authorities think is lost and not a stray, successfully thwarted a robbery attack on a mother and her 2-year-old son, who were held at knifepoint Monday afternoon.
The Florida woman, who has been identified by authorities simply as "Angela," was leaving a playground with her toddler son in Port Charlotte when a man approached her in the parking lot with a knife and told her not to make any noise or sudden movements.
Angela didn't have to do either to protect herself and her child -- a dog mysteriously ran to the scene and charged the man, who quickly fled.
"I don't think the dog physically attacked the man, but he went at him and was showing signs of aggression, just baring his teeth and growling and barking. It was clear he was trying to defend this woman," Animal Control Lt. Brian Jones told Pet Pulse.
"I don't know what this man's intentions were, but it is very possible this dog saved her life."
The exceptional part of the story, Jones said, is that the dog had never met or even seen the people it quickly jumped to defend.
"You hear about family dogs protecting their owners, but this dog had nothing to do with this woman or her kid," Jones said. "He was like her guardian angel."
After the alleged thief ran away, Angela quickly placed her son, Jordan, in the car and tried to drive off. Before she could, though, the dog jumped into her backseat, waiting with her for the police and animal control officers to arrive at the scene.
The dog was transported to a local shelter and if his owners don't step forward within five days, Jones said, Angela and her family plan to adopt the savior she named "Angel."
Animal control officers and shelter workers believe Angel is lost, and not a stray, because of his good health, sturdy weight and mild temperament.
"It's funny, that someone's irresponsibility could have saved someone's life," Jones said of Angel's possible owners.
For Angela, it doesn't matter where the dog came from, just that he was there when she needed him most.
"I don't know what his [the thief's] intentions were -- I don't know why he did it, but I'm glad that -- we call him Angel -- I'm glad that Angel showed up because I don't know what would have happened," Angela told NBC2 News.
Calm...
Calm: (käm)
n.
1. An absence or cessation of motion; stillness.
2. Serenity; tranquillity; peace.
Such a simple word, with a simple meaning. I have learned a lot the past few days about how this word must fit into your daily life if you are to have a successful relationship with your dog. We live in a fast paced world, where deadlines need to be met, bills need to be paid, children need to be driven to soccer practice, dinner needs to be cooked, laundry needs to be done...you get my point. So where does calm fit into your life and how does it relate to your dog?
I am probably one of the most guilty, never practicing calm, I am always on the go, my mind is always spinning, and there is always too much to do, with too little time. It has started to affect me with minor negative physical symptoms, such as TMJ and neck and back tension. My two dogs live in a very excited state most of the time, not practicing calm either. Totally my fault. I need to be their teacher and lead them into the proper state of mind.
Your dogs read your energy, and it impacts their behavior. If you are hyped up all the time, they will be hyped up all the time, which can lead to negative behavior issues. I have been forced to change my lifestyle and practice calm, since bringing Skye home 3 days ago. I now recognize how my excited state of being has negatively affected my own dogs and their behavior, which is causing Skye's transition into my home to be more difficult. So I reached out for help from our two certified dog trainers at Shelter Link.
I was lacking the tools and the understanding of dog behavior, which was throwing off the balance in my house. I will be perfectly honest, it hasn't been an easy few days, but I am learning so much about dog behavior and training, and it really is amazing if you follow the recommendations of a professional trainer, the immediate positive results you get. I never even realized how hyped up I always was. When I was approaching a training exercise with the dogs, or giving a correction, I wasn't in a clam state. No wonder I wasn't getting the results I was looking for. But after watching Jack, a certified trainer and member of Shelter Link work with my dogs and Skye, I saw exactly what it meant to be calm and how positively it affects a dog's behavior, leading to the results you are looking for.
It is a work in progress here, and it is heading in a positive direction. I have so much support from the two certified dog trainers at Shelter Link, if I call, they come and lead me. I am never alone at this.
So, two points to my post today, one, practice calm and see how it affects your relationship with your dog, and two, fostering a shelter dog may be a challenge, but with support, like we have here at Shelter Link, can be one of the best learning experiences of your life and lead you to be a better dog owner. It certainly has for me.
Thanks for reading...
n.
1. An absence or cessation of motion; stillness.
2. Serenity; tranquillity; peace.
Such a simple word, with a simple meaning. I have learned a lot the past few days about how this word must fit into your daily life if you are to have a successful relationship with your dog. We live in a fast paced world, where deadlines need to be met, bills need to be paid, children need to be driven to soccer practice, dinner needs to be cooked, laundry needs to be done...you get my point. So where does calm fit into your life and how does it relate to your dog?
I am probably one of the most guilty, never practicing calm, I am always on the go, my mind is always spinning, and there is always too much to do, with too little time. It has started to affect me with minor negative physical symptoms, such as TMJ and neck and back tension. My two dogs live in a very excited state most of the time, not practicing calm either. Totally my fault. I need to be their teacher and lead them into the proper state of mind.
Your dogs read your energy, and it impacts their behavior. If you are hyped up all the time, they will be hyped up all the time, which can lead to negative behavior issues. I have been forced to change my lifestyle and practice calm, since bringing Skye home 3 days ago. I now recognize how my excited state of being has negatively affected my own dogs and their behavior, which is causing Skye's transition into my home to be more difficult. So I reached out for help from our two certified dog trainers at Shelter Link.
I was lacking the tools and the understanding of dog behavior, which was throwing off the balance in my house. I will be perfectly honest, it hasn't been an easy few days, but I am learning so much about dog behavior and training, and it really is amazing if you follow the recommendations of a professional trainer, the immediate positive results you get. I never even realized how hyped up I always was. When I was approaching a training exercise with the dogs, or giving a correction, I wasn't in a clam state. No wonder I wasn't getting the results I was looking for. But after watching Jack, a certified trainer and member of Shelter Link work with my dogs and Skye, I saw exactly what it meant to be calm and how positively it affects a dog's behavior, leading to the results you are looking for.
It is a work in progress here, and it is heading in a positive direction. I have so much support from the two certified dog trainers at Shelter Link, if I call, they come and lead me. I am never alone at this.
So, two points to my post today, one, practice calm and see how it affects your relationship with your dog, and two, fostering a shelter dog may be a challenge, but with support, like we have here at Shelter Link, can be one of the best learning experiences of your life and lead you to be a better dog owner. It certainly has for me.
Thanks for reading...
Friday's Friends...
Every Friday, I will post Friday's Friends, featuring a few of our beautiful dogs at the Islip Animal Shelter. A lot of people say when I tell them I volunteer at the shelter, oh it's all Pitbulls. Wrong, very wrong. Yes, we do have a lot of great Pitbulls, but we also have so many other breeds at the shelter, from little Yorkies and Chihuahuas, to Beagles, Labrador's, Huskies and more. You'd be surprised to learn that many of the animals in Islip's shelter are pure breed. It's amazing that these expensive and sought after breeds, become residents at the shelter. So if you are one of the people who think that there are only Pitbulls at the shelter, you are very mistaken. Take a look at some of Friday Friends:
Meet Jackson, an absolutely beautiful and sweet Husky/Akita Mix. Jackson is a young playful boy, somewhere around the age of one. Besides being devastatingly handsome, with the softest coat ever, he is gentle, intelligent and eager to please you. He has learned basic obedience commands very quickly, and enjoys learning. He's got a great personality, and would make a great addition to any family. To see more about Jackson, click here.
Look at Sparrow, a wonderful sweet female Jack Russell. She is a gentle girl that is playful and affectionate. She is intelligent and just loves to be with people. She is energetic but not your typically Jack. She too, will make a wonderful addition to your family. To see more about Sparrow, click here.
Or what about Pattycake, a Lab/Shepherd Mix. What a great girl! She is very playful and funny. She loves people and is very outgoing and energetic. She is a character and guaranteed to make you smile. She will make a wonderful addition to an active family that wants to include her. See more about Pattycake here.
Are you wondering what happened to Stanley, the dog rescued in yesterday's video? We were too!
Respect-A-Bull took Stanley in, put him in a foster home and continued where the rescuer had left off. While with Respect-A-Bull, Stanley had surgery to repair a problem with his eyes and continued mange treatment. His second foster home, previous adopters from Respect-A-Bull, decided that they couldn't part with Stanley and he joined their family officially. We couldn't be happier for Stanley, his adoptive "parents" and his adoptive brother Taylor, a Respect-A-Bull program graduate himself!
So there you have it, a very happy ending to what may not have been. Truly, an inspirational story.
Have a great Friday!
Meet Jackson, an absolutely beautiful and sweet Husky/Akita Mix. Jackson is a young playful boy, somewhere around the age of one. Besides being devastatingly handsome, with the softest coat ever, he is gentle, intelligent and eager to please you. He has learned basic obedience commands very quickly, and enjoys learning. He's got a great personality, and would make a great addition to any family. To see more about Jackson, click here.
Look at Sparrow, a wonderful sweet female Jack Russell. She is a gentle girl that is playful and affectionate. She is intelligent and just loves to be with people. She is energetic but not your typically Jack. She too, will make a wonderful addition to your family. To see more about Sparrow, click here.
Or what about Pattycake, a Lab/Shepherd Mix. What a great girl! She is very playful and funny. She loves people and is very outgoing and energetic. She is a character and guaranteed to make you smile. She will make a wonderful addition to an active family that wants to include her. See more about Pattycake here.
Are you wondering what happened to Stanley, the dog rescued in yesterday's video? We were too!
Respect-A-Bull took Stanley in, put him in a foster home and continued where the rescuer had left off. While with Respect-A-Bull, Stanley had surgery to repair a problem with his eyes and continued mange treatment. His second foster home, previous adopters from Respect-A-Bull, decided that they couldn't part with Stanley and he joined their family officially. We couldn't be happier for Stanley, his adoptive "parents" and his adoptive brother Taylor, a Respect-A-Bull program graduate himself!
So there you have it, a very happy ending to what may not have been. Truly, an inspirational story.
Have a great Friday!
The 1st Day of a New Life...
There she is, Miss Skye. Last night was an emotional night for my oldest daughter and me, as we sat with Skye, petting her, getting her to relax and drift off to sleep. We talked about how we saved Skye, how today there were so many firsts for her...it may well have been her first time in a home. We don't know. We could see the reality set in that she was no longer bound to a cage, as we walked her and my dogs with 3 of the volunteers at Shelter Link around my block. She became a different dog, one who was more sure of herself, peppy and definitely happy. She mastered the stairs relatively quickly, considering she may never have climbed stairs before, and was afraid at first of them. But patience and love always win out.
I turned the TV on in my bedroom where Skye was, and she got so scared, backing away from it. I can only imagine how big of a day yesterday was for her, how overwhelming it must have felt. A new home, 2 dogs, 1 cat, 2 kids and 2 adults as housemates. A big yard with lots of new smells, noises that are normal to any household, but foreign to her. A lot to take in when you have spent the past 2 months of your life in a kennel in a shelter, and before that, who knows. It was beautiful to watch her finally settle in on a spot on the rug in my bedroom, and close her eyes, breathing a big sigh, ready to relax. She spent the night sleeping on the floor next to my bed on the side I lay, and never moved. My one dog, Coco, right beside her. I bet berber carpeting never felt so good!
This morning, she was a bit nervous, and had an accident in the house, but who cares, that's why there are paper towels and Clorox wipes. She will find her way here, slowly but surely, I am positive of that. It's new to Skye, and us, and we will all learn together.
You might be wondering what is wrong with her eyes. Skye had eye surgery to correct a common eye condition in dogs, called Entropion. She is still healing up, and should be all better soon with the help of an antibiotic cream.
So there you have it, Skye's 1st day, I'm sure it ranks up there as one of her best, it certainly is one of ours. Skye is off to the beauty parlor soon for her first spa treatment, thanks to the fabulous ladies at Lad & Lassie Groomer in Islip.
A reader forwarded me this video which shows how one person doing one thing, makes such a difference. Maybe it will inspire you to do one thing. I warn you now, you will need tissues. {Don't forget to scroll down and turn off our music player.}
As always, thanks for reading...
A Great Day...
It is 6:30 am, and my 6 year old daughter just asked me, Is today Wednesday? Smiling, I tell her it is, and she excitedly says, Skye's coming! Today is a great day for Shelter Link, and for me in particular. We will be fostering one of the beautiful Pitbull babies, well she's not a baby, she's around 2 ;), here at my home. She'll arrive this afternoon, and we can't wait! She is such a sweet girl, who will thrive being out of the shelter environment. She's a special dog, afraid, but coming out of her shell. It became apparent to us that whoever had her before she ended up at the shelter, wasn't very nice to her. But that is all behind her now. The volunteers worked with her at the shelter, coaxing her to learn to trust again, and you would be amazed how quickly she did. Dogs have an amazing capacity to forgive and live in the now.
Look at Skye and Valentino, another mush at the shelter waiting for his family, having some fun this past Saturday. {She's the gray beauty on the right.}
I will be posting lots about Skye's time with us, her progress and photos. My daughter's are so excited we get to help her, and find her a forever home. They helped pick out a new collar and dog bowl for her yesterday. As a parent, I am thrilled to give them this experience, as there as so many lessons they will learn and take with them the rest of their life.
Skye is Shelter Link's 3rd foster dog in the past 2 months. Hopefully, that number will grow quickly, as we have more fosters in place. Shelter Link's first foster dog, Winnie, is already at her forever home, being spoiled and loved on. Her family is very smitten with her. I will be posting more about Winnie's love story soon. If you would like to see our dogs being fostered, click here.
Fostering a dog is no doubt going to be an amazing and joyous experience for myself and my family. I know tears will be shed when we turn over her leash to her new forever family. But we'll think about the impact we had on her life, and how we loved her like she was our own. And that will make it all worth it!
Providing a temporary home for a dog in need is very important. Here are 10 reasons why you should consider taking a foster into your home to become a part of your family. In animal rescue, a foster home is a necessary ingredient for moving a dog out of a shelter and on the way to a good forever home.
1. Some dogs don’t do at all well in a shelter environment. They may be elderly or frightened of the smells and sounds. These dogs have a much greater chance of being adopted if they’re placed in a home environment and are given some TLC.
2. If a foster dog needs veterinary care, the shelter organization takes care of that.
3. Fostering a dog can be a rewarding experience for anyone of any age. You can enjoy the companionship of a dog that needs a temporary home.
4. As you spend time with your foster dog, you can learn about canine behavior, grooming, and social interactions.
5. You’ll learn the finer points about the dog’s personality. This is a wonderful gift you can give to people looking to adopt the dog. You’ll be able to inform them of all the strong points, as well as areas that need to be focused on if they are considering adopting your foster dog.
6. If you already have a dog, fostering can provide your pup with a companion and playmate.
7. Fostering a dog teaches children about compassion and generosity.
8. Fostering means that you save a life. You are making room for another dog at the shelter. One more open run or kennel.
9. Having a foster dog lets you actively participate in the rehabilitation of a traumatized or needy dog. Due to the attention and security you give him in your home, your foster can become a different dog, less timid and less emotionally or physically injured.
10. Most of all, fostering is incredibly satisfying. The day your foster dog finds his perfect forever home might be a sad one for you, but know that he wouldn’t be where he is without all of your efforts and affection!
To foster with us, click here for more information.
We need you... they need you.
Look at Skye and Valentino, another mush at the shelter waiting for his family, having some fun this past Saturday. {She's the gray beauty on the right.}
I will be posting lots about Skye's time with us, her progress and photos. My daughter's are so excited we get to help her, and find her a forever home. They helped pick out a new collar and dog bowl for her yesterday. As a parent, I am thrilled to give them this experience, as there as so many lessons they will learn and take with them the rest of their life.
Skye is Shelter Link's 3rd foster dog in the past 2 months. Hopefully, that number will grow quickly, as we have more fosters in place. Shelter Link's first foster dog, Winnie, is already at her forever home, being spoiled and loved on. Her family is very smitten with her. I will be posting more about Winnie's love story soon. If you would like to see our dogs being fostered, click here.
Fostering a dog is no doubt going to be an amazing and joyous experience for myself and my family. I know tears will be shed when we turn over her leash to her new forever family. But we'll think about the impact we had on her life, and how we loved her like she was our own. And that will make it all worth it!
Providing a temporary home for a dog in need is very important. Here are 10 reasons why you should consider taking a foster into your home to become a part of your family. In animal rescue, a foster home is a necessary ingredient for moving a dog out of a shelter and on the way to a good forever home.
1. Some dogs don’t do at all well in a shelter environment. They may be elderly or frightened of the smells and sounds. These dogs have a much greater chance of being adopted if they’re placed in a home environment and are given some TLC.
2. If a foster dog needs veterinary care, the shelter organization takes care of that.
3. Fostering a dog can be a rewarding experience for anyone of any age. You can enjoy the companionship of a dog that needs a temporary home.
4. As you spend time with your foster dog, you can learn about canine behavior, grooming, and social interactions.
5. You’ll learn the finer points about the dog’s personality. This is a wonderful gift you can give to people looking to adopt the dog. You’ll be able to inform them of all the strong points, as well as areas that need to be focused on if they are considering adopting your foster dog.
6. If you already have a dog, fostering can provide your pup with a companion and playmate.
7. Fostering a dog teaches children about compassion and generosity.
8. Fostering means that you save a life. You are making room for another dog at the shelter. One more open run or kennel.
9. Having a foster dog lets you actively participate in the rehabilitation of a traumatized or needy dog. Due to the attention and security you give him in your home, your foster can become a different dog, less timid and less emotionally or physically injured.
10. Most of all, fostering is incredibly satisfying. The day your foster dog finds his perfect forever home might be a sad one for you, but know that he wouldn’t be where he is without all of your efforts and affection!
To foster with us, click here for more information.
We need you... they need you.
The Truth About Pitbulls...
Most people hear the word Pitbull, and immediately have a negative reaction, due to all the negative media attention the breed receives. Sadly, the majority of dogs in Islip's Shelter or any shelter across the country are Pitbull or Pitbull Mixes. Ask yourself why are so many Pitbulls in shelters. Is it because they are the mean terrifying dogs everyone makes them out to be? Or maybe, just maybe, is it because they may be one of the most neglected dog breeds.
The case of Michael Vick brought to the forefront of America's eyes, how terribly mistreated Pitbulls are and the horrific acts people were committing. And that is just one case, out of thousands. Now, thankfully, we have shows on televison that advocate for Pitbulls, like The Pit Boss and Pitbulls and Paroles, great shows, btw. Finally, some much needed positive attention.
Did you know Petey from the Little Rascals was a Pitbull? He was, and so stinkin cute, if I do say so myself.
I fell in love with the breed a few years ago, and if you ask my 7 year old daughter what her favorite dog breed is, she'll tell you A Pimple, Pitbull. Granted she has two parents who love the breed and has a Pimple of her own, so maybe we swayed her a bit, lol. They are loving, sweet gentle dogs, and despite what you may think, amazing with children! Did you know they scored higher than the average score on temperament tests conducted by the American Temperament Test Society? It's true, they did. Here are six reasons why Pitbulls make great pets.
1. Pit Bulls are Affectionate Companions
Pitbulls are wiggly, cuddly, affectionate dogs. If you don’t like dog kisses then consider another breed, because most pitbulls love licking. The same goes if you have children and you don’t want them to be a regular target for face washes.
Pitbulls are not aloof – they like to remind you regularly of how they feel about you, and in general this means a lot of tail wagging and kissing.
2. Generally Healthy and Easy to Care For
Yes, pit bulls require a reasonable amount of attention. They do not, however, need a lot of care. They have short coats and are normal shedders, and only need to be brushed semi-regularly.
They don't tend toward genetic disorders like some other breeds, although they should be inspected at puppyhood for signs of hip dysplasia, but this is a good idea for most medium to large breeds anyway. Most pit bulls do not get larger than 50 to 60 pounds, although there are some larger sub-breeds.
And as long as you exercise the dog regularly, a pitbull can be very comfortable in a small dwelling.
3. People-Orientated, When Socialized Properly
Pitbulls love people. Although this breed frequently gets a bad rap in the media, if you have ever met a pitbull that was raised by a loving, conscientious family then you will understand how much they like to be with people.
The downside of this personality trait is that they can get overexcited when they meet new people, which is something that needs to be addressed through training and positive reinforcement.
4. Pit Bulls are Loyal to their Owners
Your pit bull will be you and your family’s best friend from the day you take them home to the day they pass away. While they will be naturally protective of their family and their property, because pitbulls are so people-orientated they do not make good guard dogs.
Unless you just want them to smother intruders with hugs and kisses.
5. Eager to Please
A pitbull will always do it’s best to make you happy, as long as you are clear about what you expect from them. Many people will mention the fact that this breed is notoriously stubborn, but once they realize that you are the boss, they will work hard to ensure that you were happy with them.
6. High Tolerance for Pain
Sometimes presented as a negative trait, the fact that pitbulls have a high pain tolerance makes them exceptional family dogs. They easily (and happily) put up with the rough play of children without reacting.
So now that you have some background on this wonderful breed, which in my personal opinion is just the cutest ever, take a look at a few of our Pitbulls at the shelter. I encourage you to come down and spend time with any one of them and see what Pitbulls are really like.
Sprinkles, such a beautiful and playful girl...
Hef, what a ham!
Shorty, the most gentle guy who just happens to be deaf.
I could go on and on, sharing all of our beautiful, loving Pitbulls at the shelter that are are waiting for their forever homes. Ask yourself this, if you are someone who is afraid of a Pitbull, why is that? Have you ever spent time with one? This breed needs us, and hopefully you'll consider meeting one of our great Pitbulls.
I found this video on U Tube and thought it was worth sharing. {Please scroll down to the bottom of the blog and pause our music player before playing this video.}
Thanks for hanging in there and reading! Have a wonderful day!
Why I Chose A Shelter Dog...
One afternoon, while my husband and I were out running errands, we were passing the Islip Animal Shelter on our way home, and decided to visit. Having never been there or to any shelter, I was curious to see the dogs they were caring for. We weren't particularly looking to adopt another dog then, we had adopted a dog the year prior. As we walked through the kennels, we fell in love with the beautiful faces we saw behind the bars and our hearts bled for them that they didn't have a family to call their own. We couldn't understand how all of these beautiful and sweet dogs were there. We came across a sweet little brindle pitbull, and I instantly knew, she was meant to be ours. She licked my hand through the bars, and whined when I went to walk away. My husband was a bit resistant at first to adopt another dog, so despite my protests we left. I thought about that sweet little pitbull the rest of the day and into the evening. The next day, I went back to visit her, and spent time with her in the viewing room at the shelter. She ran to me, jumped into my lap, curled up and smothered me with kisses. Somehow, some way, I knew I was meant to find her and she me, and I couldn't live without her. I spent time that evening talking with my husband, and after seeing how in love I was with this little darling, he agreed we could adopt her, and make her the newest member of our family. Ecstatic, I took my older daughter with me the next day to visit our soon to be pitbull, and put in my adoption application. My daughter fell for her instantly too, and the little pitbull, who we named Cleo, even lost a baby tooth while my daughter was holding her. One week later, Cleo came home with us, and now, we can't imagine our lives without her. She is one of the greatest dogs ever! She has a heart of gold, a spunky personality and gives us more love and joy than we can describe. Some say Cleo was lucky we found her, but I say we were the lucky ones.
There are so many wonderful dogs and cats at the Islip Animal Shelter, and you could have a love story like ours if you choose to adopt a shelter animal. After adopting Cleo, and seeing all the beautiful faces in the cages, I decided to volunteer there. From one visit, on a whim, came so many rewarding experiences for myself and my family. Now I get to go to the shelter and give love to the faces behind the bars, and what I receive in return is immeasurable. If I am having a bad day or feeling down, the dogs take it all away. You can't help but feel happy and loved when you are there with them. Sometimes, I feel like my heart is bursting at the seams from the love I get from the shelter dogs. All these animals ask for are food, water, shelter and love, and what you get in return, is so much more than you can imagine. I am proud to say I adopted a shelter dog and made a difference, and am continuing to do so through my volunteer work there.
So consider visiting the Islip Animal Shelter and meeting our dogs and cats. Maybe you'll just fall in love like we did.
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