Monday, November 30, 2009
I Need You!
My name is Herman. I was adopted out of the Humane Society in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I thought it was a good thing because I was going to a home. It turned out not to be a good place for me and the people who I thought were mine let me go. I ran around for a while by myself. After a few days of feeding myself in this little town, I got wind that I was going to be shot as a stray dog. Someone who wasn't as mean called Animal Control and they came to get me in their truck.
In case you don't know, Animal Control is NOT a place you want to be. It is cramped and you don't get to stay there very long anyway, if you know what I mean. Lucky for me, a nice lady who knew me at the Humane Society called Pet Haven and asked if they would take care of me until someone really great who would love me forever found me.
I'm a little over a year old. I am part German Shepherd and part Hound. Don't you love my floppy ears?Kids and other playful dogs I like. Cats annoy me but I suppose I could try to get along with them if I had to.
I am really eager to start my new life with a person or persons who will love me. You can foster me or you can adopt me. If I could put in a request, I would like you to have an active life. I like a good snuggle on the couch as much as the next guy, but I also like to get out and see the world, run and play and check everything out in the big city that is now my home.
Email the Pet Haven people at dogs@pethavenmn.org if you would like to meet me. I'll be waiting!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Hallmark Hall of Fame Television Movie Inspires National Pet Fostering Program
“A Dog Named Christmas” premieres Sunday, Nov. 29 on CBS (photo credit: Erik Heinila)
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Nov. 11, 2009) — This holiday season Hallmark Hall of Fame and CBS are partnering with Petfinder.com to launch the first-ever “Foster A Lonely Pet for the Holidays” program inspired by the movie A Dog Named Christmas, premiering on Sunday, Nov. 29, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on CBS Television Network.
Based on Greg Kincaid's popular novel, the movie tells the story of a developmentally challenged, kind-hearted young man who sets out to convince his family – and their whole rural community – to participate in a local animal shelter's inaugural “Foster a Dog for Christmas Program.” Bringing this inspiring tale to life, Petfinder.com is working with more than 2,000 shelters and rescue groups across North America to give families the chance to welcome an adoptable pet into their home for the holiday season.
This effort will help ease the burden on shelters, give homeless pets some attention and affection, and provide families an opportunity to experience the joys of having a pet in their home.
Interested individuals can visit http://www.petfinder.com/foster-a-lonely-pet to find participating shelters and rescue groups near them. Staff and volunteers at the participating organizations will be available to answer questions about the fostering process and help select a pet who will be a good match for the foster family.
To learn more about fostering with Pet Haven email dogs@pethavenmn.org and check out our website.
On Sunday, Nov. 29, on CBS at 8 CST, television viewers will learn about this pet fostering program on the Hallmark Hall of Fame world premiere of A Dog Named Christmas during a PSA at the end of the broadcast.
For more info on the movie checkout the Hallmark Hall of Fame website.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Vote for Pet Haven!
What is Chase Community Giving?
Chase Community Giving is a program run by Chase that will allow Facebook users to vote for local charities and non-profits, and help direct Chase corporate philanthropy dollars to eligible organizations in the following focus areas: education, healthcare, housing, the environment, combating hunger, arts and culture, human services, and animal welfare. The grassroots campaign aims to inspire a new way of corporate philanthropy.
The eligible charity receiving the most votes will be awarded $1 million, the top five runners-up will receive $100,000 each and the 100 finalists, including the top winners, will be awarded $25,000 each. Additionally, a special Advisory Board led by prominent national philanthropists will allocate $1 million to the nominated charities of its choice.
In order to vote you do need to have an account on Facebook! If you aren't already on facebook we encourage you to sign up and join the I support Pet Haven Facebook group AND take a second to vote for Pet Haven for the Chase Community Giving program.
Voting for Round 1 ends on December 11, 2009 so vote now and help us spread the word!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
We're Thankful for You
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Senior Dog's Prayer
One by one they pass my cage,
Too old, too worn, too broken, no way.
Way past his prime he can't run and play,
Then they shake their heads slowly and go on their way.
A little old man, arthritic and sore,
It seems I am not wanted anymore.
I once had a home, I once had a bed,
A place that was warm, and where I was fed.
Now my muzzle is grey, and my eyes slowly fail,
Who wants a dog so old and so frail?
My family decided I didn't belong,
I got in their way, my attitude was wrong.
Whatever excuse they made in their head
Can't justify how they left me for dead.
Now I sit in this cage, where day after day,
The younger dogs get adopted away.
When I had almost come to the end of my rope,
You saw my face and I finally had hope.
You saw through the grey, and the legs bent with age,
And felt I still had life beyond the cage.
You took me home, gave me food and a bed. And shared your own pillow with my poor tired
head.
We snuggle and play, and you talk to me low,
You love me so dearly and want me to know.
I may have lived most of my life with another,
But you outshine them with a love so much stronger.
I promise to return all the love I can give,
To You, my dear person, as long as I live.
I may be with you for a week or for years,
We will share many smiles, you will no doubt shed tears.
And when the time comes that God deems I must leave,
I know you will cry and your heart will grieve.
And when I arrive at the Bridge, all brand new,
My thoughts and my heart will still be with you.
And I will brag to all who will hear,
Of the person who made my last days so dear.
Author Unknown
Pet Haven has many senior dogs like the ones pictured here that would love to come home with you. Do you have room in your heart?
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
All About Chuck
Chuck's family had young grandchildren and Chuck, like many small and older dogs, did not enjoy having the kids show up and try to poke and prod him like he was a stuffed toy. It made him grumpy.
Because Chuck was adopted from Pet Haven many years ago and Pet Haven has a lifetime commitment to its dogs and cats, Chuck was able to find a foster home when his family decided to surrender him.
When Chuck came back to us last April, he had a reputation for being snappy with people and with other dogs. Seven months later, he has gotten used to his new life and since he doesn't have kids pestering him, he is loving life.
Outgoing and curious when meeting new people, Chuck loves to go on a car ride, or just snuggle up with you. Just seventeen pounds, he's the perfect size for sitting on your lap. He passed his recent check-up with flying colors. "He's in good shape for a dog of his age", the doctor said. Chuck does show some signs of kidney disease, which is common in older dogs and cats, so he is on a special food and will need to stay on that to keep him in tip-top senior condition.
If you lead a quieter kind of life and are looking for a cute companion to share your days and nights, please email us at dogs@pethavenmn.org
Monday, November 23, 2009
Adopted Dog Monday!
Mukwa, our giant black lab went home on Saturday. His new Husky brother, Yukon, is so happy to have a new playmate. Mukwa's mom recently lost a mellow senior dog. While a new dog never replaces one we have lost, they do fill a space in your home and heart. Mukwa has a nice fenced yard to play in and we are certain there is plenty of love for him in his new household.
Our girl from Red Lake Rosie's, Emma, went home on Saturday, too! She will have a big fenced yard to play in and two doting parents. Emma recently started Obedience class at The Canine Coach. Her new mom and dad are planning to help her finish the course. Little Emma is only seven months old, so she still has some growing and learning to do. Her forever home is a great place do to it in.
Buckles, the happy senior CockaPoowho hides his age so well, found a terrific new home. His plans are for a lot of snuggle time mixed in with car rides and some good walks, too.
We're happy for our four adoptees and wish them well in their new lives.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Dog Adoption Tomorrow 11/21
Dog Adoption Tomorrow (Saturday)
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Safety First!
Did you know that the safest place for your dog to enjoy a ride with you is in a sturdy plastic crate? In a collision, the hard sides will help protect your dog, even if the crate itself rolls. Dogs have been known to survive a car crash only to escape from a damaged car and be hit on the road by another car.
Dogs should never ride in the front seat of a car with airbags. Even an impact at low speed can inflate the airbag, which can injure or even kill your canine friend. I recently heard of a beloved family dog who was mortally injured in just such an accident.
If you don’t have a crate or have a dog who will not ride in one, you can buy a safety harness that fastens to the car’s seatbelt. While not providing as much protection as a crate, it is a pretty good alternative and will keep the dog in place in a crash.
Besides protecting your dog in case of an accident, confining your dog to the backseat can help prevent one, too. A dog trying to sit on your lap while you are behind the wheel or burrowing down around your feet is a hazard and it is hard to correct inappropriate behavior while you are traveling on the freeway at 60 m.p.h.
Taking a car ride with your dog can be a lot of fun. Make it a safe time, too.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Panel Discussion on Homeless Animals
A few months ago, Pet Haven received a request from a professor at Concordia University to participate in a panel discussion on homeless pets. These types of discussion in our community are critical to increasing the awareness around homeless pets and the challenges are community faces with regards to homeless pets and the overpopulation crisis. Mary Ann Cameron, our Cat Adoption Director, will be representing Pet Haven on the panel. Sally Morton, our Dog Adoption Director, will also be there to answer questions. We are thrilled to be invited to participate in these discussions.
Each year, Concordia University, St. Paul recognizes "National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week" (Nov. 15-21) with a Convocation speech addressing these important social and political issues. This year, Concordia will be hosting a panel discussion on Homeless pets and animals.
The distinguished speakers will examine many of the challenges they face in trying to rescue homeless animals, operate shelters on tight budgets, and find people to adopt these pets. In addition, the speakers will also talk about how the recent recession and home foreclosure situation has affected pets and companion animals. The panel will include:
Mary Ann Cameron: Pet Haven of Minnesota
Kimberly Carrier: The Pet Project
Tammy Noack: Animal Humane Society
Christopher Nelson: Feline Rescue
This should be a fascinating discussion--please try to attend.
Where: Concordia University, St. Paul (275 Syndicate Street N/corner of Hamline and Marshall)
Room: Buenger Education Center (BEC)
When: Wednesday, November 18
Time: 12:00-1:00
For further information: contact Dr. David Woodard: 651-641-8713 or woodard@csp.edu. You may also visit their website for more information on their Wednesday Convocation Series.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Double your difference for homeless animals TODAY!
Make a Donation to Pet Haven. Today, TUESDAY, 11/17 from 8 AM CST through 8 AM WEDNESDAY, 11/18 your donation will be matched. GiveMN.org is sponsoring Give To the Max Day, a day intended to inspire unprecedented levels of charitable giving in the state of Minnesota! When you make your donation, not only will the funds you contibute help care for the animals in need but your funds will be matched. The Saint Paul Foundation, Minneapolis Foundation and Bush Foundation have committed $500,000 in matching contributions to support community needs in Minnesota and to cover transaction fees so that 100% of all donations go to the nonprofit organizations.
Give to the Max Day will feature:
- The perfect match. Every donation made on Give to the Max Day at GiveMN will receive a portion of a $500,000 match.
- Zero transaction costs. Transaction costs for gifts made on Give to the Max Day at GiveMN will be covered, so 100 percent of gifts will go straight to nonprofits.
- A little friendly competition. Grants will be awarded to the three nonprofits that have the largest number of individuals who make donations during Give to the Max Day at GiveMN.
Double the difference you make for homeless dogs and cats by making a donation between 8 AM CST on Tuesday, 11/18 and 8 AM CST Wednesday, 11/19.
Any amount helps. With YOUR help we can put an end to pet overpopulation.
Click HERE to make a donation.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Fall Benefit Preliminary Numbers are In!!
I am thrilled to share preliminary numbers for our Fall Benefit! This is our third year in a row to sell out! Much to our surprise, our first year in 2007 was a sell out and we were able to raise ~$14,000 for homeless dogs and cats. In 2008, we sold out again, and raised a little over $20,000 ... again ALL going directly for our adoption program and spay/neuter initiatives.
This year, despite the struggling economy, we were able to raise almost $29,000!! We were able to do this because of the support and generosity of so many individuals and companies! Many, many thanks to everyone who helped make our third annual Fall Benefit a HUGE success.
As we finalize numbers and as we get photos from Sarah Beth Photography who donated her time to take photos of the pet fashion show (presented by Lulu & Luigi), I will post additional information on our website. For now, I have heard from many who are anxious to hear how we did ... so I didn't want to keep you waiting and to let you know that because of your support and generosity we will be able to continue rescuing and rehoming dogs and cats, spaying/neutering, and advocating on behalf of companion animals.
Stay tuned ... more info and photos to come on the Fall Benefit!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Panel Discussion on Homeless Animals
A few months ago, Pet Haven received a request from a professor at Concordia University to participate in a panel discussion on homeless pets. These types of discussion in our community are critical to increasing the awareness around homeless pets and the challenges our community faces with regards to homeless pets and the overpopulation crisis. Mary Ann Cameron, our Cat Adoption Director, will be representing Pet Haven on the panel. Sally Morton, one of our Dog Adoption Directors, will also be there to answer questions. We are thrilled to be invited to participate in these discussions.
Each year, Concordia University, St. Paul recognizes "National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week" (Nov. 15-21) with a Convocation speech addressing these important social and political issues. This year, Concordia will be hosting a panel discussion on Homeless pets and animals.
The distinguished speakers will examine many of the challenges they face in trying to rescue homeless animals, operate shelters on tight budgets, and find people to adopt these pets. In addition, the speakers will also talk about how the recent recession and home foreclosure situation has affected pets and companion animals. The panel will include:
Mary Ann Cameron: Pet Haven of Minnesota
Kimberly Carrier: The Pet Project
Tammy Noack: Animal Humane Society
Christopher Nelson: Feline Rescue
This should be a fascinating discussion--please try to attend.
Where: Concordia University, St. Paul (275 Syndicate Street N/corner of Hamline and Marshall)
Room: Buenger Education Center (BEC)
When: Wednesday, November 18
Time: 12:00-1:00
For further information: contact Dr. David Woodard: 651-641-8713 or woodard@csp.edu. You may also visit their website for more information on their Wednesday Convocation Series.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Double your end of year donation on November 17th!
Make a Donation to Pet Haven on TUESDAY Nov. 17 through GiveMN.org. Multiply your donation by matching funds available at GiveMN.org ONLY on TUESDAY November 17th.
Mark your calendar now so you don’t forget!
If you are planning on an end of year donation, we would like to encourage you to maximize your donation by going to GiveMN.org or Razoo.com from 8:00 a.m. Tuesday to 8:00 a.m. Wednesday. There is no cost to you to use the website.
What is GiveMN?
GiveMN.org is a smart way for donors to discover, support, and engage with charities that are close to their hearts. The online giving platform allows donors to find and support organizations that match their philanthropic goals and easily keep track of their donations in one online location.
Give local. Find your perfect Minnesota match, such as Pet Haven.
Give fast. Make online donations quickly and easily via credit card to any nonprofit.
Give smart. Record all online contributions and store receipts for tax purposes.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Petland Protest in St. Paul
"Minnesota is among the top producers of puppies and kittens in the United States.
Due to no State licensing of the dog and cat breeding industry, it is difficult to report the total number of breeders in Minnesota. It is fair to say, however, that there are primarily two types of breeders: Reputable breeders and inhumane breeders.
Inhumane dog and cat breeders in Minnesota, through ignorance or greed, create serious harm and suffering to animals in the pursuit of profit.
Minnesota has no state laws to regulate the dog and cat breeding industry." For more info visit the AnimalFolksMN website.
Come and help us send a message to Petland that selling puppies and kittens from mills is inhumane and cruel. Supporting rescues by promoting adoption is the best option! The demo is peaceful and legal and everyone is welcome.
Small Dog Rescue, The Animal Rights Coalition, the Coalition for Animal Rights Education, and In Defense of Animals is sponsoring a peaceful, legal protest of the St. Paul Petland store. Please consider attending (weather is supposed to be nice!). The last protest, of a Petland Store in Shakopee was very well-organized, and we received a lot of support from folks driving / walking by!
Protest info:
Petland Protest in Saint Paul
Date: 11/15/2009 11am - 12:30pm
Location: 2123 Hudson Rd. St. Paul, MN 55119
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Johnson the English gentleman
This lovely six-year-old English gentleman is gentle and easy to fall in love with. At just 40 pounds, he’s smaller than the average English Setter. He needs an owner that will work with him on his obedience, but he is very smart and learns quickly. Knowledge of the English setter breed would be a plus.
Perfectly housetrained, as any gentleman of his ilk should be, Johnson can be trusted to roam the house while you are away. He enjoys listening to the radio or the stereo. While used to being alone, he enjoys the company of other canines – and people of course.
A fenced yard would be ideal for this silky boy as well as daily walks, car rides and maybe even a spin around the dog park. Mostly, Johnson just needs a place filled with love and attention. And you, of course.
Why not invite this English gentleman for tea. Chances are, he’ll stay forever.
For more info on Johnson email dogs@pethavenmn.org.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Fall Benefit sold out!
Just a quick note to let everyone know that our Fall Benefit on Saturday was a HUGE success (many thanks to everyone who came!). Many thanks also to our sponsors, our volunteers, our supporters, Tim (for DJing), Sarah of Sarah Beth Photography, Lulu & Luigi for presenting our pet fashion show, our celebrities ... and many, many others! We are still waiting to gather final numbers to report along with photos of the fashion show, so stay tuned for more info and photos!
Meanwhile, a couple links for you to check out:
Lena Svenson (co-host of the Dave Ryan show) was one of our celebrities in the fashion show. Check out some photos she posted on her blog. Thanks Lena!
Ahnung (ah-NUNG) had a chance to get up on stage with me this past Saturday and shared in my presentation. She came into Pet Haven's foster program last fall from Red Lake Rosie's Rescue. She was dumped with a litter of 8, had heartworm, lymes, coccidia, no front teeth (her teeth ground down to her gums in her effort to scrounge for food) and a pellet in one of her nipples. She is now a Canine Good Citizen and a therapy dog in training and currently volunteering at The Lab (a program of St. Paul Public Schools) working with at-risk youth. She put a challenge out to the audience and helped raised over $3,500 for her furry friends. Check out her blog for more info and a video she played after she came up on stage.
And thanks to our volunteer Robin S for taking these photos.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Adopted Dog Update: Bear on his one year anniversary!
Our highlights are getting updates from adopters. We recently got an update on Bear ... it sure sounds like he is having the time of his life and that he has successfully wiggled his way into a permanent spot in the hearts of his new family! :)
"On 9-20-09 Bear has been with us a year. It's his one year anniversary with us. Our refrigerator has conked out or we would have gotten him a nice big beef bone to chew on. We'll have to get that later.
How he has become so much a part of our family. It's hard to imagine a time when he wasn't part of our lives.
The latest thing we do is play hide and seek. David (Daddy) holds Bear in his lap then says "Where's Mommy". I get to hiding behind doors etc. and Bear is released to find me after the count of 10. He looks all over and when he finds me we are happy and I pet him and he seems to almost smile, wag his tail and get very excited.
He leaps from the deck to chase a squirrel up the oak tree or run a cat or rabbit under the fence. He's very protective of his territory.
David now has developed pre-diabetes and gets his exercise by taking Bear for his walks. Bear gets so excited it's hard to get him to sit still to put on his harness.
I guess I go on and on about him, but I'm afraid our family has fallen in love with our little guy."
If you have adopted a dog or a cat from Pet Haven we would LOVE to hear from you. Email us at editor@pethavenmn.org.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Adopted Dog Monday!
After more than six months with Pet Haven, Koda has found his forever home with an Eagan family of five that includes his new parents, their two young children and a furry friend named Tucker, a four-year-old Husky/Lab mix. According to Koda’s new dad, Dan, Koda has already made himself at home! Koda has always been known for his endless energy, and is now enjoying his new big backyard where he can run and play with Tucker and the kids. His new family will continue to work with him to curb his love for barking when given any type of "window seat," but feels that overall, he will be a great fit for their family.
Congratulations to everyone!
Friday, November 6, 2009
Dog Adoption Tomorrow (Saturday)
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Fall Benefit is this Saturday! Close to selling out!
The event is this Saturday, November 7th at 6 PM at the Doubletree Hotel in St. Louis Park. You can purchase your tickets online on our website.