Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Adopted Dog Update: Shadow

Shadow, fka Dakota, was adopted from Pet Haven in June of 2007. His new mom wrote to let us know that he is happily settled into his forever home with his little canine sister, Tina. She has shown him the ropes of "the good life" and really brought him out of his shell. Congratulations, Shadow!

Monday, March 30, 2009

Adopted Dog Monday!

Tucker, a retriever mix, has been hanging his leash with a foster-with-intent family and they are ready to make it official. Congratulations, Tucker!





Punkin, aka Winona, a shepherd mix puppy, went to her adoptive home this week. She has a new mom and dad, as well as an older and wiser canine brother to show her the ropes. She also has a new feline sibling to hang out with at her forever home. Congratulations, Winona!



Midnight, a black lab, has landed himself a forever home with a stay-at-home mom who cannot wait to spoil this boy in the manner to which he has become accustomed in his foster home. Thank you so much to his foster mom for taking on Midnight and his ACL surgery/recovery. Congratulations, Midnight!






Bitzy, the little terrier girl, has found her new home with a first time dog owner. Her new name is Betty. Word is that her new dad "loves, loves, loves" her! Congratulations, Betty!

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Photo fundraiser for Pet Haven


Ahnung (pronounced ah-NUNG, and means "star" in ojibway) is a rescued dog who came to Pet Haven from Red Lake Rosie's Rescue. I adopted Ahnung in January of 2009. Since that time she's been busy napping (her favorite past time -- as you can tell, she's even learned to nap while sitting upright!) and doing outreach work with kids. Her latest calling, however, has been modeling. She had the chance to practice her various poses at Photographers Guild last week and wanted me to share with you her favorite pose.

Ahnung would like for you to help raise donations for her furry friends who are patiently waiting for their forever homes. Photographers Guild is offering a free pet portrait session and a free 8 x 10 if you make a donation to Pet Haven for $40. In fact, Ahnung would like to tell you herself what she thought about the photo shoot. Check out her blog AND be sure to call Photographers Guild at 651.646.3239 to make your appt. The photo fundraiser runs through April 30, 2009.

Friday, March 27, 2009

Fun Facts About Foster Dogs

I thought a Friday near the end of the month would be a good time for an update on some of the dogs for whom we have put out foster pleas, either by email or on our foster dog blog. Most of them have found foster homes. To everyone who responded to our requests for help, a sincere thank you -- whether you were able to take a dog or not!

ALFIE is in a foster home with intent (to adopt) waiting for her second heartworm treatment next month. Her foster family loves her gentle spirit and is enjoying their time with her.

OSO is also in a foster home with intent. This lovable boy is living with another Rottie mix and both dogs are enjoying having canine companionship, something new for both dogs.

MISSY has a great foster buddy who has taken her home for the weekend. There are already three dogs and a cat in the home, including adoptable Pet Haven dog Andy, so Missy will be spending her weekdays at Pampered Pooch Playground.

RILEY, our nervous but oh-so-dear Springer mix is in his original foster home with Pet Haven. We are looking for a situation for him where people are around 24/7, such as a group home. Please put the word out for this boy. There is a right place for Riley -- we just need to find it for him.

SOPHIE, the Yellow Lab/Hound mix is going to a foster home this evening. Her new foster mom is new to Pet Haven and has no other animals, which may be the best place for Sophie as she is a little particular about which dogs she likes to hang around with!

MAGGiE, a senior Black Lab, has a home visit scheduled for this weekend. She came and went so quickly she didn't make it to our website, thus proving that being an older big, black dog doesn't necessarily mean that you are unwanted!

FLETCHER, now known as GEORGE was fostered with intent for a short while before his family decided to make it official. This cute chocolate lab is having a blast in his new forever home!

TUCKER, a Lab/Chow Chow is in a foster home with intent. Tucker's family is working on a couple of behavior issues with him, but are hoping to adopt him soon.

PORTER, formerly BUDDY is in a terrific foster home -- mine! ;) He's already generated some interest from an Aussie-owned family; meanwhile, he and my socially-challenged GSD Daisy have gotten past the awkward "let's just ignore each other" stage and were spotted playing together this morning.

SAVANNAH is still at Auntie Ruth's waiting for a foster home to open up for her. If you would like a sweet dark chocolate companion, let us know. You will not be sorry for welcoming this morsel into your home.

I think that's about it for today. Please keep spreading the word about our dogs. Your efforts make a difference. Many of our dogs have been placed in foster and adoptive homes through your contacts.

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Pit Bull Transport from Louisiana: One Year Later

Baby Benne, in the shelter


About a year ago, Benne and Hazel made the long journey from Louisiana to Pet Haven in search of their forever homes. Their trip was the culmination of weeks of conversation and organization. Both dogs were in a high-kill shelter in Louisiana; both dogs had advocates that worked on their behalf to remove them from the shelter and get them into temporary foster homes. After this heroic effort, the outreach began. Hazel and Benne's rescuers contacted Ann S., Pet Haven's Intake Coordinator, who agreed to take the two dogs.

A truly amazing effort of more than 15 transporters drove the two Pit Bulls from Louisiana to Minnesota, leaving the 19th of April and arriving at their destination on the 21st of April.

Hazel had spent at least a year in a shelter and was still only about a year old. Benne had spent almost all of his young life (he was about nine months of age when he arrived at Pet Haven) in a shelter, too. A Minnesota foster family had learned about Benne and was waiting to take him home. Hazel tested positive for heartworm and had to spend a couple of months at the our vet clinic while she underwent two treatments to kill the worms and had to bear two months of almost no activity. It can be lethal for a heartworm infested dog to get her heart working hard, so no running, no play, no excitement. Lively Hazel could not have been thrilled with this situation but she survived it with her good nature intact. Now she, too, was ready for a foster home!



Benne and Hazel were with us for several months. Benne was adopted last month into an all-girls household. His new best friend -- besides his new human mom, of course -- is a nine-month old kitten. Hazel's foster mom realized that she could not part with her sweet 'pocket pit' and made it all final this week.

One of our volunteers commented, "It takes a village to raise a Pit Bull" and the efforts of so many well-meaning people on behalf of these two dogs proves that to be true.

Thanks to everyone in Lousiana and Minnesota who cared, who advocated, who drove, and finally, thanks to those wonderful people who opened their hearts and homes to Hazel and Benne. A special thank you to Trisha S. and Melody K. on behalf of Benne and to Ann S. and Diana S. on behalf of Hazel.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Andy: Cat tested, kitty approved

Andy has moved to a new foster home where we have been able to learn how he does with cats -- and it turns out he thinks they are swell! He does like to chase them occassionally (all in good fun), but he also likes to snuggle up with them. You can read more about Andy's adventures at his new foster home on his foster mom's blog.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Good food for a good cause!

Don't forget that the Highland Grill in St. Paul is running a fundraiser for Pet Haven tomorrow, Wednesday, March 25th. Dine there for any meal and they will donate 10% of your bill to Pet Haven. You must present this flier when you dine to participate in the fundraiser.

Monday, March 23, 2009

Adopted Dog Monday!

Hazel, a little "pocket pit" Hurricane Katrina dog has "finally" found her new home. Of course she's been there for a year already -- her foster mom has realized that Hazel is already home and is going to adopt her! Congratulations, Hazel!








Saja, a shepherd mix, has found her new home. Her new mom finalized the adoption at our event on Saturday and it was clear to everyone there that Saja has really hit the jackpot with a very devoted new momma! Congratulatios, Saja!







Lakota, a 6 year old lab, has found herself a new home right along the Mississippi River in St. Paul. Just think of the beautiful walks this girl will have waiting for her right outside her front door! Congratulations, Lakota!

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Sophie


Sophie is a new intake into Pet Haven's foster program. I had the chance to meet this sweet girl a couple days ago to take photos. Something about her really touched me. Her days were numbered at a rural Iowa shelter. Many thanks to advocates, she was given a second chance.

Some dogs latch onto your heart. Sophie did and I write more about it on my blog. Please help us get the word out about Sophie.

Friday, March 20, 2009

Adoption event tomorrow - Saturday, March 21st

Fred and his fellow fosters can't wait to meet you at the adoption event tomorrow! Just look into those big brown eyes and try to resist Fred.

We will be at the Richfield Petco from 10am - noon and we hope to see you there.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Punkin: Sweet as pie

Punkin is a shepherd mix puppy who came to Pet Haven through Red Lake Rosie's Rescue. She's around 5 months old right now and learning the ropes at her foster home. She's got the housetraining thing down (as long as she goes out on a schedule). She's working on being calm when her foster mom leaves her to goes to work. She loves the other dogs in her foster home. She's a busy girl and is looking for an active home that will take her on long walks or hit the dog park with her. She would make a great jogging partner once she's fully grown. She's a big fan of comfy places to nap, so she would love a home where she's allowed to lounge on the furniture.

If you would like to learn more about Punkin, please email pethavendogs@yahoo.com.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Sadie: Dreaming of adoption















Sadie (a young basset/husky mix) seems to be getting quite comfy here. Her personality has really come out. She loves to play inside and out. Inside she wants to always have a toy to carry around with her and if I don't have the toys handy then she will go for the dish towel hanging on the hook. And outside she runs circles around the big dogs although they do try to catch her now and then. But she is so lovable and does like to snuggle. And I am amazed at how you can pet any part of her and she loves it, even her feet! She is doing better on walking on a leash and also at taking treats. If I didn't have a house full of critters already I would adopt her in a minute. But I know she'll make someone very happy and I am glad to have the time to get to know her.

If you are interested in meeting Sadie, please email pethavendogs@yahoo.com.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Puppy & Kitten Mill Bill hearing TODAY!

The Puppy and Kitten Mill Bill is being heard in the Minnesota House Public Safety & Oversight Committee today at 12:30 pm. Please see the advocacy blog for more information and consider giving the committee members a call to let them know you support the bill before the hearing!

Monday, March 16, 2009

Adopted Dog Monday

Alistair, a young Chihuahua puppy, was a popular guy who had many families inquire to adopt him. His new family is thrilled to have him and we thank everyone for their interest in the little tyke! Congratulations, Alistair!










Ruby, a young black lab mix, has landed herself a wonderful home a lake in the north metro! She has a new stay-at-home mom to hang out with. What a lucky girl. Congratulations, Ruby!











Lady's foster mom has been in love with her since the day they met as foster dog and foster mom. They made the adoption official this week. Congratulations, Lady!

Friday, March 13, 2009

Animal Assisted Intervention and Education


Pet Haven, A Rotta Love Plus, & The Lab
presents Animal Assisted Interventions & Education

An informative training to teach you how to facilitate, safely handle your pet, and successfully work with urban at-risk youth during animal assisted programming.

Saturday, April 11th, 2009
9:30 A.M. – Noon


This training is free to all individuals interested in volunteering.

Following this training you’ll be given an opportunity to put your new skills into action at The Lab!

The Lab is a special education program of the St. Paul Public Schools. Students come to The Lab at Homecroft from various St. Paul junior and senior high schools. Students participate in small groups, exploring Spoken word Poetry, Visual Art, Technology and Experiential Wellness.
Visit The Lab's website -
Scroll down the page and you'll find organizations and animal related programs that are already taking place in the Wellness Lab.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Registration for this training is required. Please reserve your spot today by emailing your name, email address, and phone number to marilou@pethavenmn.org. Be sure to write ‘ATT Training’ in the subject line.

Registration Deadline: Saturday April 4th, 2009.

A confirmation email with further details will be sent to you by 4/7.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Adopted Dog Update - Roxy

Roxy is a beagle who was adopted from Pet Haven in 2008. Doesn't the photo of her snuggled up in the blankets look like a good on this coooooold morning? She has trained her family to tuck her in -- smart dog! Obviously she has them wrapped around her little paw. Good work, Roxy!

Here's an update from her adoptive mom:

Roxy joined our family a year ago. She has become so much a part of our lives that I can’t imagine not having her. Our 8 year old son has a snuggling routine that is adorable; they curl up together right before bedtime, and first thing in the morning. Other than breakfast and supper, one of Roxy’s most adorable moments is when the kids get home from school. She is so happy, her tail is going and she puts her paws right around their necks like a big hug! Roxy’s bed is on her very own “Stickley” loveseat, she insists on being tucked in every night before bed and sometimes even for her afternoon nap. Roxy has a non blinking serious stare that she will give you when she wants something. And it is truly up to you to figure out what this little beagle is asking for. It is usually food, although this also is the way she tells you that she needs to be tucked in.

The best whole family moments have been when we all go to the dog park. Watching this beautiful dog run is priceless. Her short little legs just go flying she is so fast. Then, she’ll stop on a dime to take in an interesting smell. Smelling the world is what Roxy does as an occupation. As you can imagine she takes her work very seriously and does not like the distraction of some human telling her things, like “come here Roxy”.

Lastly, I would like to share that Roxy has a rabbit friend named Honey Bunny. Bunny lives on our back porch, she is not frightened of Roxy one bit. In fact, Roxy opens bunny’s cage every time she gets a chance, Bunny loves that freedom, but also enjoys the companionship, so she puts her head low in hopes that Roxy may pet her, but to no avail, Roxy is merely there to sniff out more of the world.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Kyp needs a foster


Kyp is an 8 year old Alaskan malamute/spaniel mix who is currently being fostered by one of our doggie daycare partners, Pampered Pooch. They love him there and have been pampering him. Kyp, however, would much rather be in a home. Too many dogs and too much crazy running around is just not his thing. We are really needing to move this sweet gentle giant into a foster home.

Would you be willing to consider fostering this sweet guy? If so, email Celayne our adoption director at dogdirector@pethavenmn.org.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Photo Fundraiser

The Photographer's Guild is running a fundraiser for Pet Haven!
For the months of March and April, make a $40 donation to Pet Haven and receive a free pet portrait session and a free 8x10 print.

Check out their website for more information and to see examples of their pet portrait work.

Monday, March 9, 2009

Adopted Dog Monday

Fletcher is a Chocolate Lab mix who was in and out of Pet Haven care in a matter of days. His new family met him at his first adoption event and took him home as a foster-with-intent arrangement 2 weeks ago. This Saturday they made it official - this boy is home! Congratulations to Fletcher and the L family on their happy ending!

We also had several dogs go home to foster-with-intent families this weekend, so we are crossing our paws for some more happy endings soon.

Sunday, March 8, 2009

What's It All About, Alfie?


For our girl Alfie, it's all about finding a foster home, and a foster home with intent to adopt her, at that!

Here's a report from her proud foster mom:

Well, things are still going well. Alfie has had no accidents in the house, she hasn't barked at all, and basically walks in a heel position. I think this is more due to her wanting to be next to me than actual technique, but I'll take it! Prudence (the resident dog) seems to be adjusting fairly well, but I want to truly give it a good amount of time to be certain about their relationship. My husband, too, is quite taken with her sweet, gentle disposition.


Alfie also slept soundly all through the night, on the floor right next to the bed. She has yet to go into the kennel, but it doesn't really seem necessary, so... She enjoys my homemade peanut butter dog treats as well, so her appetite is good! Such a love. That's the update for now. Thanks, Gals!



Saturday, March 7, 2009

Enjoy a meal out while helping Pet Haven


Help homeless dogs and cats by enjoying a meal at the Highland Grill! Click on the coupon to your left, print the coupon, and bring it with you to the Highland Grill in St. Paul for any meal - breakfast, lunch, or dinner - on Wednesday, March 18 or Wednesday, March 25.

Present the coupon to your server and 10% of your entire bill will be donated to Pet Haven. Help us spread the word.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Adoption event tomorrow - Saturday, March 7th






































(Ruby, a young lab mix who is available for adoption)

The dog division will be meeting and greeting at the Minnetonka Petco tomorrow from 10am to noon. Please come out and meet our available dogs -- they would love to meet you!

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Do you recognize this adopted dog?

Jessie's adoptive family emailed us an update (we love updates on adopted dogs!)...

We adopted our dog Jessie from Pet Haven on 5-23-97.....she was age 1 at the time. Although Jessie has a few gray hairs like my husband and myself, she is still the same ol' sweet little girl we
adopted 12 years ago. During the years, names evolve and nicknames take their place, and Jessie is no exception. Jess-a-roonie-be-bop, Punkin, Lady Bug, Chum-Chum, Pussy Willow, and a few others that are unmentionable but adoring. I especially like to whisper in her ear that she is so sweet, sugary, and chocolaty that I could eat her up, but nothing would be left except her collar. Jessie is sweet, loving, gentle, spoiled, loyal, faithful......did I mentioned spoiled??

Thank you, Pet Haven, for bringing this little girl into our lives. We have enjoyed every single moment and her paw print has been embedded into our hearts forever. We love you, Jess-a-roonie!

Do you recognize Jessie? She's the dog in the header on Pet Haven's website!

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

The Fast and the Furballs

On May 31st, Pet Haven will be fielding a team in a 5K-9 (yes, you can bring your dog on the run)! We would love to have you join us and we've started a blog to get everyone organized for the event. Check it out for more information on the event and a link to the registration:
The Fast and the Furballs

Did you drop the ball on that New Year's resolution to exercise more? There are a number of "Couch to 5K" training programs available on the web. Just hit up Google to find one that fits your schedule. There are many out there tailored to fit within the time period between now and the 5K-9 event. Don't forget that our dogs need to build up to running a 5K too, so take your favorite canine along on during your training as well.

Mister (photo above), a Pet Haven alum, can't wait to see you there!

If you have any questions, email furballs@pethavenmn.org.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Sadie: This girl can run

Don't let her stubby Basset Hound legs fool you...

Sadie had us on our toes last week. She was adopted by a wonderful family on Saturday and on Sunday she got away from them and ran into the large wetland area behind their home. She was skittish and would not come to any of the people who tried to call. Sadie's foster family and another Pet Haven volunteer that Sadie had met before went down to try to help -- they even brought her favorite fur-brother from her foster home to try and coax her to safety, but she was not falling for any of it. After several days of trying to lure her into safety, we contacted Sean from Falls Creek Animal and Pest Control who hooked us up with a couple of live traps. Sean went out to the neighborhood and set up the traps and monitored them for us. Finally, on Thursday morning, we got the call that Sadie had been caught overnight. Yay! Her foster family dashed out to pick her up before the flakes started falling. She was checked over by a vet and aside from losing a few pounds and a couple scrapes and burrs she was no worse for wear after her adventure.

Sadie is now back in her foster home and is looking for an adoptive home with a VERY secure fence as she has clearly inherited all of the hound scenting traits and all of the husky mischief from her ancestors.

The first few weeks in a new home are when dogs are most likely to run away. They haven't bonded to their new people yet and everything is new and exciting. It's important to be extra-vigilant with new dogs until they have bonded with you -- not only so they are less inclined to run, but also so they are more inclined to come back to you (and recognize you as their "family").

If you have a secure fence, a good sense of humor and would like to meet Sadie, please email pethavendogs@yahoo.com.

Photos:
Above - Sadie safely trapped.
Right - Sadie and her foster sister on the way to the vet to get checked out after her rescue.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Un-adopted Dog Monday

Well, unfortunately, we don't have any adoptions to report this week. The economy is hitting everyone hard, including rescue dogs.

So without adoptions to report, instead a teaser:















Check back again tomorrow to learn all about Sadie's big adventure and don't worry, Sadie is safe and warm in her foster home now.