Richfield All Dog Adoption Event July 31st!

Pet Haven is having an all dog, large and small, adoption event tomorrow Saturday July 31st at the Richfield Petco this Saturday from 10-12.

Thunder an 8 year old Saint/border collie mix would love to meet you.

Russell the Lhasa/Bichon mix has not been to an adoption event for a while so this is your chance to come visit with him.

Chester a 40lb lab mix is looking for his forever home tomorrow. He is the perfect size for city dwellers. These dogs plus others will be awaiting their adoring fans. Please check Petfinder for more information. See you tomorrow.

Adopted Dog Update: Izzy

I adopted Izzy the yellow lab from Pet Haven one year ago on 7/11/09. I could see right away how sweet she was and I fell in love with her the very moment that we met. When I brought her home she was afraid of quite a few things. One of her biggest fears was getting into my van, she would put her brakes on and totally refuse to take a step toward my van door. She had to be lifted into the van each time it was time to go anywhere. With much patience and encouragement she gets in with much
ease now. She now goes for rides and sticks her head out the window to see and smell everything.

    Izzy is loved by all my friends and family members as she is sweet and so laid back. She seems to think that everyone likes her and wants them to pet her. I think that she is pretty close to being correct! 

    Izzy has graduated from TCOTC Twin Cities Obedience Training Club level one and will attend level two soon. She did very well and learned so much. 

She now walks, listens and obeys so much easier. I am very proud of her as she continues to learn and grow.
      
Thank you for a wonderful dog!
Sincerely,
Teresa

Adopted Dog Monday

Scooby, where are you....?!



In his new home, that's where!!!

Prince Scooby III, the sheltie, came into Pet Haven earlier this month from People For Pets in Spencer, Iowa and it didn't take long for someone to claim this royalty.

Scooby is pictured above sitting in his foster mom's lap with his new mom Jane and Golden Retriever brother Luke. Missing from the photo is cat sister, Lola. With all that fur, this family should have an easy time staying warm this winter! I just hope Jane has herself a good swiffer....

Many thanks to Barbara for fostering Scooby...we're happy he found himself a family worthy of this prince's love!! We wish you well Scooby, Jane, Luke and Lola!!

Dog Wash fundraiser for Pet Haven

On Wednesday, 7/28 from 4:30 - 8:00 pm there will be a Dog Wash party taking place at the Galaxy Drive-In in St. Louis Park. This event is being sponsored by Galaxy Drive-In and Pampered Pooch Playground.

For a $5 donation (all of which go to Pet Haven!) not only will you get a bath for your pooch, but you AND your pooch will get some ice cream ... of course, the ice cream for your pooch will be a doggie cone and your's will be for human consumption. Your pooch, i'm sure, would probably be happy to help you eat your ice cream if you are unable or unwilling to consume your ice cream treat!

So if you live in the St. Louis Park area (or even if you don't!) we hope you'll consider rushing home from work, picking up your loyal companion, and heading on out to the Galaxy Drive-In. You can dine with your pooch after his bath ... be sure to check out their menu! They even have doggie burgers  ... it's the same great burger they serve humans, minus the onion and the pickles!

It's a dog wash party and not only does your pup benefit from it, but so will homeless dogs and cats!!

Pet Safety During Disasters

I heard a humbling fact on Minnesota Public Radio this morning, that in just the last month we've had more than twice as many severe weather observances than we had for the entire season last year. If you live in the Twin Cities, you've heard the tornado sirens and you've seen the lightning, hail and pounding rain but do you really know what to do in an emergency evacuation situation? Where do you go? What do you need to do to keep your pets safe?

On July 15th, the American Red Cross observed the Third Annual National Pet Fire Safety Day. There are several things you can do to help keep your pet safe in the event of a fire or other emergency. With just a little bit of time and research, you can prepare your family and your pet in the unlikely event of an emergency situation.

1) Evacuate your pet and find a safe place for them to stay.

Red Cross shelters do not allow pets unless they are service animals so it's important to understand your options in advance of a disaster so you and your pet are not stranded during an emergency.

Research hotels/motels in your region (outside your local area) to determine which are pet-friendly.

Ask friends and family if they would be willing to house your pet during an emergency situation.

Make a list of vet offices and boarding facilities in your area that will act during emergencies. Keep a list of their 24-hour emergency phone numbers.

Last month, we blogged about Pet Haven's participation in a community Animal Sheltering experience in Richfield where the MN Animal Disaster Coalition (MNADC) coordinated a joint human/animal emergency response effort to shelter pets and humans during a drill. Check out Minnesota Animal Control Disaster Coalition for more information on options that may be available to you in Minnesota.

2.) Assemble a portable pet supplies kit that can support your pet for up to a week.

Include your pet's medications and medical records, photos of your pet in case they get lost, food, water bowls, clean water, a blanket, toys and info sheet on your pet.

3.) Keep your pets from starting fires in your home.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 1,000 house fires each year are accidentally started by the homeowners' pets. The American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services have joined forces to provide the following tips.

Extinguish open flames - Pets are generally curious and will investigate cooking appliances, candles, or even a fire in your fireplace. Ensure your pet is not left unattended around an open flame and make sure to thoroughly extinguish any open flame before leaving your home.

Remove stove knobs - Be sure to remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the house - a stove or cook top is the number one piece of equipment involved in your pet starting a fire.

Invest in flameless candles. These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your pet knocking over a candle. Cats are notorious for starting fires when their tails turn over lit candles.

Keep pets near entrances when away from home. Keep collars on pets and leashes at the ready in case firefighters need to rescue your pet. When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them.

Secure young pets; keep them confined away from potential fire-starting hazards when you are away from home such as in crates or behind baby gates in secure areas.

Affix a pet alert window cling and write down the number of pets inside your house and attach the static cling to a front window. This critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets. Make sure to keep the number of pets listed on them updated.

You never know when disaster may strike but there are easy steps you can take now to help alleviate some of the stress and panic that can occur during an emergency.

Plan ahead....your pet will thank you for it!!!

Adopted Dog Monday

We have had three of our dogs from People 4 Pets adopted in the last two weeks. Bob is lucky to have found a new life with a couple that have another lab mix named Al, a beautiful home near their work, and a lake home where they spend three days out of the week. Stay tuned for updates on Bob's swimming and dock jumping abilities. Congrats to Merry, Aaron and Ian on your 4th adoption.

Buster was the last of the three springer/beagle puppies to find a new family. He is living with homeschooled children from 3 to college age. He will be part of the curriculum this summer including dog training classes. The kids were so excited to take Buster home.

Thanks Mike for fostering Buster. And for spending so much time with his new family giving them training tips.

Frankie a spaniel/lab mix found his forever home with an active family full of teenagers. He is another one of the family members going along to soccer games, picnics, and trips to the dog park. Thanks again Mike for taking Frankie into your home. And congrats on two successful adoptions.

Photos from 7/17 Medium/Large Dog adoption event

At yesterday's medium/large dog adoption event at the Richfield Petco we had Beulah (aka Bell), Chester, Sherman and Thunder make their appearance. With the exception of Thunder, who is an 8 - 9 year old St. Bernard/collie mix, all the others are new dogs into Pet Haven's foster program and are beautiful black dogs ... on the left is Bell who has already captured the heart of foster mom and foster dad. In the animal rescue world there is a term call Black Dog Syndrome ... unfortunately big black dogs are euthanized at one of the highest rates in shelters and animal control facilities across the country (after pitbulls). To learn more about Black Dog Syndrome check out the MSNBC article.

The small dog adoption event at the Calhoun Chuck & Don's was also hopping and we will have more info on these pups soon! Click here for a list of all of our available dogs up for adoption.

The following is a short 2 minute video of photos taken at the medium/large dog adoption event. We hope to see you at the next adoption event. For a list of our upcoming adoption events check out our website, www.pethavenMN.org.

Adoption Events Saturday July 17th

Mike is a teeny Chihuahua who is looking for his forever family. Come meet him and our other small dogs at Chuck & Don's Calhoun-3246 W Lake St-this Saturday, July 17th from 10-12.

Beulah has made herself right at home with her fosters. But she is looking for a family that she can call her very own. Beulah and other large and medium dogs will be waiting to meet you at the Richfield Petco-66th and Lyndale Ave S-from 10-12 on Saturday July 17th.

New Dog Transports 7/11 and 7/12

Earlier this week Pet Haven had two transports bring us 7 wonderful new dogs. Mike, Teddy, and Sherman came from People for Pets in Spencer Iowa. Thanks to Sheila from BARKMN for bringing our dogs all the way to Lakeville. Your car was brimming with furry friends.

Mike is a tiny little Chihuahua boy. Weighing in at about 6lbs he needs to start eating some cheeseburgers. His foster says he is a real snuggle bunny.

Teddy is a 2 year old Pom that is the cutest ball of fluff. He is playful and has a look in his eye that says "What's next?".

Sherman a 75lb lab has been waiting quite a while at the shelter to have a chance for a new home. Well buddy you are on your way now. Sherman will be hanging out at Pampered Pooch Playground for the next week.

On Sunday we brought in 4 new dogs Chester, Beulah, Libby, and Scooby from Red Lake Rosie's Rescue. Thanks to Jenny for delivering these great dogs to us. No idea how you got so many animals in your car.

Chester is a 40lb lab mix. He is the perfect size for city dwellers and would love daily trips to the dog park. A lake to swim in would be on his dream list too. For the next week Chester will be playing with all the dogs at Auntie Ruth's.

Beulah is a 30lb springer/hound mix. At least that is the mix we are guessing for now. Beulah is a shy girl that is slowly coming out of her shell. She will need a patient home where she can experience new things calmly and gain confidence.

Libby is a 5 year old registered Sheltie. Her AKC name is Liberty Bloosum Carter. She is hanging out in a foster home with two other Shelties. This may be a quick foster failure situation here.

Scooby is a 7 year old registered Sheltie. His AKC name is Prince Scooby III. He slipped out of his collar at the clinic and was found walking down 494. Welcome to the big city Scooby. We will have more info on Petfinder soon. Most of these dogs will be making their debut on Saturday at our adoption events. Check our website for times and locations.

Pet Haven Ink newsletter is available!

Our latest issue of our quarterly newsletter, Pet Haven Ink, is now available on our website. You can download or view a copy of our newsletter by clicking here.

Our June 2010 issue features a heart-warming happy tail on Jack and Geordie (who were both adopted from Pet Haven), a story on how Pet Haven assisted in a cat hoarding crisis, and how Pet Haven collaborated with Red Lake Rosie's Rescue, MNSNAP (Minnesota Spay Neuter Assistance Program) and Chuck & Don's Pet Food Outlet in making possible a spay/neuter clinic up at Red Lake reservation.

If you would like to receive a hard copy in the mail of our newsletter please consider becoming a Pet Haven member for a tax-deductible donation of $25/year. For more information on membership visit our website.

Adopted Dog Monday!

We've had an exciting couple of months here at Pet Haven and the best part is that deserving dogs are getting a 2nd (or 3rd...or 4th) chance at a happy and safe life.

From our small dog division of Pet Haven, we've had several happy tails come true in the last couple of weeks.

Harvey, the grey Shih-tzu in the photo above, was one of our lucky pups who just recently found his forever home. Way to go Harvey! And thanks to foster volunteer Vicki for loving this guy until his new family was found.

Chucky was another Shih-tzu that was brought in with Harvey. Here's a photo of now Chumley with his new mom, Pat. Chucky received lots of attention at our adoption event and we're so happy we found him the perfect forever home! Thank you Lisa for fostering Chucky!

And then there's sweet little Mia. Mia was only with Pet Haven for a couple of weeks before she found her amazing forever family. Mia now has a Mom, Dad and two human brothers who were so excited for her to come home that they made her this beautiful "Welcome Home, Mia" sign shown at the top of this post!

And many thanks to Michelle and Karen for fostering Mia.

We wish all of our Pet Haven dogs many long years of good health and happiness in their new homes. Please tell your families to keep us updated on your new life!

Buster the Lone Ranger

First there were three springer/beagle puppies...............

Then there were two springer/beagle puppies............

Now there is only one 16 week old puppy left. It's me Buster. I have watched both of my brothers get picked over me. I was there when each of them found their forever families. It is tough to be the last puppy left without a home of my own.

Please it is my turn now. I am doing good on potty training and puppy socialization. Pick me, pick me! You can find out more about me on my bio page. I will love you forever.

Adopted Dog Update: Flopsy

We received an update from one of our more recent adoptive families on Flopsy who came in from People For Pets this May. Flopsy was adopted by a young family who already had a papillon named Lucy, who is very attached to the Dad. Mom and the two young daughters were excited to bring Flopsy into their family to spread the puppy love around for everyone to enjoy!

Here's an update from Sarah, Flopsy's new mom:

"Oh, she is sooooo sweet!!! We just love her. And no, Flopsy did not get a new name! Both my daughters won't let me. I don't think they understand the concept of changing a dogs name and they think I'm crazy for trying! So Flopsy it is!! She is doing really well. I'm so excited to say that she is WAY more attached to me than my husband!! She spent her first few days following me EVERYWHERE (to the point where she was exhausting me!) and trying to get out of our yard. I think she was trying to fine your husband!! We had to rig up our fence so she couldn't escape!! Now she is much more relaxed. She still follows me around a lot but after a while I will find her sleeping on the couch!! We brought her on her first boating trip last week. I was really nervous about it but she loved it! She was so good in the car and excellent on the boat. We stopped at a secluded beach and let her off her leash and she stayed right by us. We are taking her camping for the first time this coming up weekend. Wish us luck!!"

And here's a recent photo of Flopsy showing off her new summer hairstyle:

Congrats to Flopsy, Lucy, Sarah and the rest of the family!! And many, many thanks to Agnes and Chris for fostering this sweet girl!

Adopted Dog Update: Mac Daddy

We recently got an update from Mac Daddy's new family who adopted him in December of 2009.  Mac Daddy has a new brother, Pickles ... it appears Mac Daddy and Pickles are happy to have each other :)

"Hello I am happy to report that Mac Daddy is doing well in his new forever home. It didn't take much adjustment to his brother Pickles and both myself and my boyfriend George. He has been playing well with our friends dogs and at the dog park. He is still somewhat reluctant around other men but is making a lot of progress. I've attached some pictures of Mac and Pickles from this past weekend. Thanks for the work you do and for introducing Mac Daddy into our lives."


If you have adopted a dog from Pet Haven we would love to hear from you. Send us photos and an update to dogs@pethavenmn.org.

Adopted Dog Monday

The last two weeks have once again been good ones for our large dogs finding their forever homes. We had 3 big dogs and two puppies adopted.

First we have to give a big shout out to Pepper and his new "official" mom Leah for signing the adoption papers on Saturday. Pepper/Zipper/now Cooper has been hanging out with Leah for months now. He has been in our program for over a year. Of course Cooper felt like he was home all along. It took Leah a bit longer to commit. Have a happy life together you two!

This is Beau the beautiful coonhound with his new family. He has lots of kids to play with, a mother-in-law home all day to keep him company, and a huge backyard they all can hang out in.

Congratulations to Jackie and Jerry and son Sam for adopting out your first foster.

And a second congratulations on your next adoption Jackie of Romeo the speagle puppy to this wonderful family. Romeo is a lucky boy to have all this love and attention.

Louie, Romeo's brother, found his new home too. This family actually met Beau as a possible new dog but just were not ready to adopt yet. But they came back to Pet Haven when Louie arrived. Congrats little man. And congrats to Nicole on her first adoption.

Captain the hilarious basset is living within walking distance of his foster's home. This makes Cindy, Bobb, and Elanor very happy because they can visit Captain often. Captain was adopted into a very basset friendly home complete with a doggy ramp for when his short legs get too tired for stairs. Thanks Cindy and family for fostering so many dogs in a row.

Photos from 7/3 Medium/Large Dog adoption event

Buster (cute 14 week old springer/beagle mix) was getting a little exercise at the adoption event yesterday. He wants you to know that he would make a great running buddy ... he came into Pet Haven's foster program with two siblings ... Louie and Romeo. Louie has been adopted and Romeo has a home visit scheduled for tomorrow. So he's the lone ranger left ... he says, "he's the best and that's why he's the last one left!!" [we let Buster boy think what he wants as it's good for puppies to have dreams :)].

The photo at the top right is Buster's brother Romeo who loved posing for the camera yesterday. They were playing and rough housing so hard yesterday it was so much fun to watch.

Also hanging out at yesterday's adoption event was Jackie the rottie. Jackie is a 93 lb, 2 year old rottie who loves all kinds of people, big or small .... he also loves playing take-away with his current foster dog pal.

If you'd like to check out more photos from the adoption event click on this link. There are some photos of Thunder, a 9 year old St. Bernard/border collie mix .... definitely a gentle giant. He just got groomed and was looking and smelling so good :)

To check out are available dogs click here and to learn more about Pet Haven visit our website.

Finally, if you're not already a fan of Pet Haven on facebook AND if you're active on facebook we hope you'll become a fan. Visit our facebook fan page by clicking here.

Happy 4th everyone! And remember, a lot of pets can get very distressed by all the commotion and noise from fireworks. For some tips on how to have a safe Fourth of July, check out the Humane Society's article on Tips for a Safe Fourth of July.

July 3rd Adoption Events

Adoption events are this Saturday July 3rd. Come out and meet our pups before you head out to that family picnic. Large dogs will be at the Petco in Minnetonka, 13691 Ridgedale Drive from 10-12. Little Romeo is a 14 week old springer/beagle mix that is making his adoption day debut along with his brother Buster.

Susie the poodle will be attending the small dog adoption event at the Chunk & Don' Wayzata, 1147 Wayzata Blvd. E, from 10-12. Have a safe holiday everyone!