Thursday, December 30, 2010

Thank you - we can't do it without you!




















Every year since 2005, Pet Haven has awarded grants to non-profit rescue organizations throughout the state with the goal of increasing the number of spays/neuters they can perform, which in turn will help reduce the number of unwanted litters.


The participating groups submit an application explaining their plans for the grant funds, along with verification of their 501c3 status and financial health. Out-of-state non-profit rescue groups that partner with Pet Haven are also eligible to apply.




Some of the groups are trying to reach barn cat populations or stray cat colonies, while others use the funds to help low income families meet the cost of spay/neuter for their dog or cat.




In these difficult economic times, Pet Haven is proud to be able to continue this grant program and through our partnership with these groups, to continue to meet the need for spay/neuter funding in partner communities.


In 2010, eight groups received grants (totaling $13,165) which resulted in 208 cats, 38 dogs and one bunny being altered. In addition, 143 low income owners were able to receive assistance for their spay/neuter costs. All of these funds came directly from Pet Haven's budget.






















We hope to increase this amount by $5,000 this year. That is a huge increase but we feel that we can do it with the help of all of you.


Our most recent grant awards are being processed, and 7 groups will receive their funding soon (totaling $13,200).


This year there's an incentive program for groups to get an early start . Groups who submit documentation of their early start with spay/neuter activity will be entered into a drawing for a share of additional incentive money for their program (up to 4 qualifying groups will split the $2000 incentive pool).


We hope this incentive will encourage all groups to start early in the year to prevent litters. Every spring litter we prevent means that many fewer animals needing spay or neuter later in the year.


You can donate to Pet Haven and indicate that you specifically want your funds to help sponsor this or other Pet Haven efforts.


Not very exciting? Perhaps not, but spay/neuter efforts are the only way to cut down on the homeless animal population. An incredible number of cats are euthanized every month in our community. Every kitten that is born displaces an older cat who is well socialized and loving from getting a home because most of the public prefers to adopt a cute kitten.


We hear daily of adults - males and females, with kittens and without, who have been tossed out the door, abandoned in a neighborhood or on a rural road - even in the weather we have been seeing the last two months. When we are able to reduce the severe overpopulation in the cat and large breed dog world, every animal will be more valued. We will be closer to finding a home for every adoptable animal.


You are the ones who are helping us take action. Pet Haven and other organizations are putting effort and funds into improving life for all of those born.


Too many are born homeless or are cast off to live homeless or to land in a shelter or rescue; some to be adopted, too many to be euthanized for a lack of homes. The success of programs like these could mean that one day, every puppy or kitten would be born into a loving home, cared for and cherished.


Any help is greatly appreciated! Together we will make a difference.




Sunday, December 26, 2010

This is what it's all about


Taking time -


Finding time -


Making time -














Renewing friendships old and new - seeing family and remembering -

Celebrating the things we have in common, saying hello, I remember when and thank you -

Hopefully you've done all of that this December.

Are you caught up with your best canine buddy too?

Most often we all need to slow down and make a little more time for the friends and family in our lives, the companions in our homes - They love us, they seek more time with us, bring joy to yourself and that companion and celebrate!




















Have you taken a neighbor's dog out to play when they are unable to?

Offered to help with feeding and brushing?

Enjoyed your own dog just a few minutes more each day?

Laugh

Love

Celebrate!

Monday, December 20, 2010

Adopted Dog Monday: Lucy!!



Lucy is a 2 1/2 year old Shih Tzu mix that came to Pet Haven from People For Pets in Spencer, Iowa.


It didn't take long for the perfect family to find Lucy and bring them into their loving home just in time to enjoy the holidays. Lucy now lives with a Mom and Dad and two human siblings - Nils and Lottie - who obviously just adore her!

Here's an update we just received from the family:

"We finally were able to get a family picture taken with Lucy. It didn't turn out quite as we had hoped (Lucy blends in with Nils' shirt :-) I attached the family picture along with a better one with just Nils, Lottie, and Lucy. Thanks again for choosing us! Lucy has been a great addition to our family and everyone loves her. Brett & Jennifer (Nils & Lottie)"
Congratulations to Lucy and her new family!!!


Friday, December 17, 2010

Adoption Events Saturday December 18th



Small Dog Adoption
Chuck & Don’s Calhoun
3246 West Lake Street
10am-12pm
December 18th, 2010

Medium and Large Dog Adoption
PetCo Richfield
66th & Lyndale Ave. S.
10am-12pm

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Raise some money to keep pets in their homes!
















We need each of you to vote once a day - it's easy, you're on your computer anyway!

The Pet Project is in the running for a Pepsi Refresh Grant.

Here are links to help you get started.

What is The Pet Project?


Check out what Sidewalk Dog has to say about this worthwhile project.

There are many rescue groups around, it doesn't make any difference if you are a humane society or foster home based. We're all working towards the same goals: keeping animals in their homes AND finding them homes. The Pet Project is working to support families who love their pets and who are unable to afford food for them. They have other resources available also.

Spread the word - everyone you tell can vote every day! Thank you for your help!

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Sammy Update


Pet Haven's Sammy, the beautiful shep mix, from Red Lake Rosie's Rescue was adopted a few months ago. Here is an update from the adopters as posted on Rosie's blog:

Sammy's just one of the kids. We can't thank you enough for taking care of Sammy. He's been a great addition to our family. He can be a little maddening at times, but so are the kids so I guess that makes it even. Here are some pics from the past couple of months.

First Day of School.

His favorite place at the playground for legal digging.

Orange Soda on a warm Summer day.

Getting Ready for Trick-Or-Treat.

A brief moment of rest between romps in the water at Minnehaha Creek yesterday. Who'da thunk that I'd be walking Sammy in shorts and a t-shirt on November 8th?

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Adopted Dog Monday


Yana the gorgeous runway model from Red Lake Rosie's Rescue found her forever home right before Thanksgiving.

Here is what her foster had to say:
I’m happy- and sad- to share that Yana now has a forever family. The happy family photo is attached. She also has a new name- Trixie. A first puppy for the kids, the family lost their dog in September. They even changed their holiday travel plans to stay home so that they could all bond this week with the kids home. We had our tears when we knew we were saying goodbye this morning, but Yana made herself right at home with them, which made it all worth it!

They said that they will eventually want another dog maybe in the spring and to keep them in mind if we have one that we feel would be a good match for them.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Adoption Events Dec 4th


Hey everyone, even with the snow Russ will be at our small dog adoption event on Saturday December 4th at the Chuck & Don's Wayzata, 1147 Wayzata Blvd. E, from 10-12. Shovel your way out and come say hello.

Joe the chocolate lab will be greeting his fans at our large dog adoption event Saturday December 4th at the PetCo Eden Prairie, 8020 Glen Lane, from 10-12. This will be Joe's debut so please come out and make him feel welcome.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Jack and Geordie


Some days it is best to just stay in bed. Here is Geordie-lab mix-and his brother Jack-shep-lounging away the afternoon. These Pet Haven alums have found a wonderful forever home.