Pet Haven Dogs

A new home for Penny!

2012-01-24T09:28:00.005-06:00

This cute girl was named Gracie when she was with Pet Haven and has had a name change to Penny!

A happy new year to you and your family. I wanted to drop you a line and send a few pictures to let you know how our little girl is doing. Penny is growing up but still has a lot of puppy in her. She LOVES to play, go for walks, tease us with her toys, crawl up on a pile of pillows, and cuddle. She has totally taken over our house and hearts. I'm pretty sure we have become her pets. My grand-kids love her and are always posting pictures of her on their Facebook accounts. Everyone that has spent time at our house smiles the minute they see her. She smiles back! She's pretty much staying at a weight of 72 pounds and the our vet and staff laugh at her when we take her in as she is trying to kiss everyone and get the heck out of their! She has also learned to be a good girl when we take her in to be groomed. Nail cutting is something she does not enjoy but she has the most loving disposition and her defense when she is uncomfortable is to give kisses. She also has a squirrel that lives in one of the trees in her back yard who she loves to chase. I think the squirrel gets the better of her as it jumps from tree to tree while scolding her with her following on the ground. It is hard to believe she has been with us over a year. The last picture of her laying on her back (abused dog) is one of the latest and you can see how much she has grown.

Thanks again to you and all those at Pet Haven that made Penny's happy life possible. She is one happy girl and we love her.

Larry & Lee

Busy weekend!

2012-01-20T20:34:00.006-06:00

TWO Adoption days!

3 locations!

On Saturday, 1/21 from 11-1 p.m. -

Medium and large dogs will be at the PetCo in Richfield at 66th and Lyndale Ave. S.

Small dogs will be at the Chuck and Don's near Lake Calhoun

On Sunday, 1/22 from 11-4, representatives from large, medium and small dogs will be at the PetCo in Burnsville.

Who can you see this weekend??

Kimi -

Bailey -

Reba -

Tipper -

Socks -

Gabby -

Gigi -

Lucy - at the 'small' dog adoption on Saturday!

Max is a 'maybe' -

Come out and get lots of tail wags and see some adorable dogs looking for homes!

Thank heaven for little girls -

2012-01-16T14:26:00.005-06:00

Petite, delightful, soulful eyes - do you suppose the song was really written for Gigi?

Thank heaven for little girls for little girls get bigger every day!

Thank heaven for little girls they grow up in the most delightful way!

Those little eyes so helpless and appealing one day will flash and send you crashin' thru the ceilin'

Thank heaven for little girls thank heaven for them all, no matter where no matter who for without them, what would little boys do?

Thank heaven... thank heaven... Thank heaven for little girls!

Looking for a lap girl? Gigi could be the one -

Looking for a little girl who will tell you when other dogs are going by the house?

Looking for a cute little button curled up on the back of the couch to see the world go by?

She knows stay, wait, bow and down and is very food oriented so training her is a lot of fun and she is a quick learner!

Gigi loves to play and will fetch the thrown toy endlessly, she also plays well with the standard poodle who belongs to the foster -

Gigi was fostered by someone previously who worked 10.5 hour days - she couldn't wait to go outside that long and would piddle in her crate. That's a long day for anyone! She goes to the door to indicate she needs to go outside in this foster home and has never had an accident.

Who is cuter than little Gigi? Not too many!

Happy Tails -

2012-01-09T14:29:00.002-06:00

We love to get these kinds of stories and pictures!

Dear Pet Haven,

We are so happy with our new family member, Zoey! She is the sweetest, cuddliest Labrador and wants nothing more than to be by our side. What a perfect dog!

My husband and I found Zoey online, and Pet Haven was quick to answer our questions and connect us with Zoey's foster mom. The next thing we knew, Zoey was at our front door for a home visit, trying to crawl up into our laps and giving us her sweet, droopy-eyed look. We knew Zoey would be a great fit and that we were ready to give her a forever home.

Now Zoey is a part of our lives, and we are loving every minute. We have a nice little routine - she wakes us up with a big kiss (better than any alarm clock!) and helps us with every chore around the house. She joins us for jogs around the park and comes on car rides with us to visit with friends and family. Zoey is right by our side everywhere we go!

Everyone in the family has gotten a chance to meet her and are so impressed with how gentle and friendly she is. Our nieces and nephews are crazy about her, too, especially because she is missing one ear! Zoey blends right in at family get-together's and loves all the attention.

Zoey is such a joy, and we are so happy to have her. Thank you for helping us find our perfect companion!

Jack & Lindsay Zweber

2 Adoption locations, Sat. Jan 1, 11-1 p.m.

2012-01-06T07:29:00.004-06:00

The small dogs will be at the Chuck and Don's near Lake Calhoun - stop by, say hello - spread the word!

Max -

Gigi

Russ -

Bella is available but will not be attending. Check out the video at her bio!

You're definitely going to appreciate the 'cute' factor at the small dog adoption event!

Medium and large dogs are at the PetCo in Richfield at 66th and Lyndale Ave. S.

Have a hankering to meet some puppies? Tipper and Socks will be there!

Others attending:

Reba

Kimono - loves to be active with you but acts as a sleeping pill. If you sit down in a chair BOTH of you will soon fall asleep!

Cassidy

Bailey

Tipper

Socks

Hope to see you Saturday!

Mr. Adaptable is Adoptable!

2011-12-30T20:48:00.003-06:00

Captain is a rescue dog from Red Lake Rosie’s. His foster dad travels for work sometimes so he has stayed at 2 different “respite foster” houses. All three fosters that have had him say the same thing – he is a sweet, “easy,” and playful dog.

Captain, black and white, is shown on the right in this picture, a new friend and former Pet Haven dog, Ode, is the lighter colored guy on the left.

At one respite foster’s house, he would play nearly all day long with a resident dog and collapse into a deep sleep at night. At the other respite foster’s house, he was such a good play companion to one neighbor’s dog that she has started a campaign to have someone in the neighborhood adopt him! Clearly, Captain is good at making both human and canine friends!

Life at his foster dad’s house is much more sedate, but Captain seems content to spend his days sleeping and looking out the window for squirrels while waiting for his foster dad to come home from work.

Captain is an adaptable, loving, loyal and playful dog who should fit in with a variety of lifestyles and home situations. He will be attending the adoption events at the Richfield Petco every other Saturday (the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month). Stop by and say “Hi”!

Dottie - home at last

2011-12-22T17:23:00.006-06:00

Dottie came to Pet Haven from a local impound. She was turned in as a stray.

Dottie is no longer a homeless lass but a dearly loved member of a family!

Dotty is at home with Tim and Holly who are working with her so she will earn her Therapy Dog Certification. First come the obedience classes to work through.

She can now 'high five' and 'sit pretty'! A smart girl who loves to please her owners.

She's a sweet lady who enjoys her classes but especially loves being a part of her family.

Time to watch a movie? Wonderful!

Time for classes? That's fun too!

We love to learn that the dogs and cats we rescue are valued members of their family with pictures and a little story! Knowing they are no longer roaming the streets is just one more bonus!

From all the volunteers and dogs and cats we've rescued and rehomed this year - Thank You!

In memory of Tigger

2011-12-19T09:34:00.006-06:00

When Tigger was adopted in 1999 he had been called 'Flash' by Pet Haven. Soon the family discovered that he pounced at things just as Tigger does in Winnie the Pooh! What better name?

Here are some of the things Tigger's family remember about him:

Tigger loved to go for car rides, camping and walks. The day before he passed away, he was still able to withstand a small walk with his Dad. When he was much younger, he could run very fast and would chase those poor bunnies in our yard. He even caught a crow once.... That was an experience.

He greeted his human sister and brother with a big kiss across the face when they came home from the hospital after being born.

He was extremely spoiled not only by his family but he also had two special "Aunty's" who loved to dote on him Aunty Nancy and Aunty Lina.

Sadly, Tigger became ill this past September and then in November, he just went down hill from there. Tigger passed away November 19th, 2011

He made our family complete and we miss him terribly. However, we take comfort in knowing that he is free to run and chase those bunnies like he used to once again.

We are rich in the memories of our beloved companions and saddened when they die. Some day we hope to have another pet to get to know, love and create new memories with.

TWO Adoption locations and SANTA!

2011-12-16T12:14:00.010-06:00

On Saturday, 12/17 from 11- 1 p.m. Santa and the medium and large dogs will be at the PetCo in Richfield at 66th and Lyndale Ave. S from 11-1 p.m.

Stop by and have your pet's photo taken with Santa!

Proceeds go to Pet Haven and another group.

Who will be attending?

Kimi

Captain

Tipper

Socks

Stormy

Poco

Buddy

Bailey

And then there are the small dogs - in attendance at Chuck and Don's near Lake Calhoun! Who will be in attendance there?

Charlie -

Gigi

Max - who's cute?

Russell

Definitely the 'lookers' will be happy with the cuteness there.

Ready to adopt?

2011-12-13T19:24:00.006-06:00

For yourself or for a friend or relative?

What are you looking for?

Full of energy

Laid back

Good with another dog

Want an only dog

Attentive companion

Big, medium, large

Younger - older

The holidays are a challenging time to add a new companion animal family member.

Will you be traveling? Will you have company with many people in and out the door who are not used to watching for a dog who might be interested in what IS outside? Are you getting together with friends frequently? Who will exercise the dog? Will it go to doggie daycare? How many hours do you work? When will you have time to schedule and attend an obedience class? Who will let the dog out to do its job if you are gone 8-10 or more hours a day?

Want to surprise someone with a new pet?

Purchase items every dog will need - a leash, a collar, a bed, a few toys, a certificate to an obedience class. Wrap these items and give them to the person you intend to gift - what fun! You can go along as they check out the website and visit other rescues and humane societies looking for that perfect dog! When the right one is found, you can pay the adoption fee!

Happy holidays!

Puppies, puppies!

2011-12-06T09:34:00.004-06:00

Tipper and Bruno - having a snooze! Boots and Socks are siblings - all ready for adoption.

Looking for a companion who will help you remember the rich joy of looking forward to snow, for someone who loves to play like a goof ball and then collapse in a heap of loose skin and need a nap? Puppy breath?

Someone to snuggle with?

Someone to get you out of the house this season for walks and visits to the dog park?

Someone to bond with by taking obedience classes? Your pup or adult dog will help you learn all the best tricks and treats - for handling your canine so it is a good citizen, polite on greeting guests, by being well-mannered?

You, your puppy or adult dog will be come better friends, learn about each other's quirks and become best friends in obedience classes.

Everyone learns new things at these classes - not just the dog!

These puppies were born in Sept. 2011, part of an unwanted litter. They came to Pet Haven from another shelter in order to speed their chances for adoptions. They are vetted and have been neutered and microchipped, are crate trained and working on house training and are learning sit, come and stay.

Well socialized, lots of fun! Waiting for a forever home - check out our website to see other dogs and cats waiting adoption.

Adoption, Sat. Dec. 3, 11-1 p.m.

2011-12-02T07:29:00.011-06:00

Two locations!

Small dog adoption will be at the Chuck and Don's in Wayzata.

Attending:

Charlie - he's a looker!

Gigi - little rat terrier - cute as a bug

Max - not confirmed at this point

Bella - not attending, check out her bio and put in an application to see her in her foster home

Russ - new best buddy - a cat!

Medium and large dog adoption, PetCo Richfield at 66th and Lyndale Ave. S

Lots attending, puppies too!

Fresno

Captain

Pups: Bruno, Tipper, Socks, Boots

Kimi

Poco

Bailey

Ash

Check out all adoptable dogs by clicking here.

Come early, stay late, check them out and get lots of doggie loving!

Matchmaking anyone?

2011-11-28T10:02:00.006-06:00

One of the things that is nice about a foster home based group is that we can help you find a dog, or cat, that will fit into your life with known needs, quirks and expectations. You'll get a personality with few surprises and behaviors that you will know how to deal with. We can tell you about favorite spots to be patted and itched, favorite toys, signals to go outside and many more details.

Russ is one of those guys - he's been in one foster home for awhile and has moved to another one to broaden his experiences with other dogs, people and a cat!

S-h-h-h-h

Russ has been seen sleeping in a dog bed with that cat! No pictures of this, unfortunately!

Russ also has new doggie 'foster brothers' and both of them are larger than Russ. He thought they might hurt him at first but has now decided they are good buds to have around.

Russ is an expert at keeping himself amused - he loves his toys. He'll find one or more and spend lots of time chewing one, tossing it in the air only to run after it and catch it again to play this game over and over. It's quite an amusing game to watch and one you'll enjoy.

By far Russ' favorite occupation (other than naps) is to be outside in the fenced yard. He doesn't seem to mind if it is cold or warm. He happily scampers around, checking out the smells, discovers what squirrels might have visited, lies in the grass and stretches out or runs around to get some exercise.

Life is good -

a foster family to love you

a dog or cat buddy who will sleep with you

toys - toys to snuggle up with but most often to play with

a cat! Who would have thought a cat could be so nice?

Now, Russ just hopes we can find the right forever home for him. One with a person or family to love him. A fenced yard to he can go out and explore. Toys. Perhaps a canine or feline friend.

Russ says he'll even let you give him a bath - if you insist - if he comes in a little grubby from playing in the yard! He hopes he'll get a treat or two after the process - for being such a trooper.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-22T10:48:00.011-06:00

Here's wishing you and family and friends a get together for a special meal - everyone's idea of a feast is different. Maybe it is a vegan specialty, vegetarian chili, duck or deer that were recently gotten this fall, wild rice, green bean casserole, maybe even mac and cheese!

Our dogs would like to tell you some of the things they're thankful for too -

A filled food bowl is always good -

Maybe a kong with peanut butter in it -

A friendly person to get pats and tummy rubs from -

A warm spot to sleep, out of the cold and precipitation -

A walk or a good game of tug-of-war -

And, of course, a person or persons to love them.

When we foster, we make our foster dog or cat a part of our family. They are treated, not as a burden or someone taking up space, but as a part of the family. So they know they are at home now - we hope that their forever home is just around the corner - but for now, this is home and it is great!

Spread the word about our dogs, and cats, waiting for homes!

Happy Thanksgiving from some of our adoptable dogs -

Bella -

Kimi -

Fresno -

Russell -

Captain -

Gigi -

Max -

Adoption, Sat. Nov. 19, 11-1 p.m.

2011-11-17T19:40:00.007-06:00

Two locations:

PetCo Richfield - Medium and large dogs

Chuck and Don's Calhoun - small dogs

The following dogs plan to attend:

Small:

Gigi - the cutest rattie

Max - a 'senior' Pekapoo who doesn't understand the word senior! He's in favor of lots of fun and long walks and a snuggle right next to you

Russ - Lhasa Mix - perfect companion for someone with a laid back life so you can check out the views from the deck together AND so he can run in the back yard

Medium and Large:

Kimono (Kimi) - learning more commands and loves to cuddle

Poco -

Buddy - he's a popular boy on petfinder!

Bailey -

Fresno - will be meeting a potential adopter

Captain - bright eyed and very cute

Happy Thanksgiving! Some of our pooches' fosters have prior engagements with family and are unable to attend the adoption!

Happy, waggin' Tail

2011-11-17T08:04:00.004-06:00

Boomer wants to share the good news -

Life is great!

Walks with my owner!

Visits to doggie daycare!

Trips to the dog park to see my friends there!

Obedience classes! Hoping to be able to get my canine good citizen award so I can be a therapy dog!

Boomer and Anna are thrilled to have found each other - and Boomer also appreciates the fact that she believes he CAN be a lap fellow!

Give to the Max Day

2011-11-16T08:41:00.004-06:00

We are all reminded on this 'set aside' day to Give to the Max!

Your contributions, to whichever non profits you support will truly make a difference. How much can you give?

I think on that website that you have to donate $10.00 - but really, any amount is a plus.

For Pet Haven it means helping those who cannot afford the surgeries a way to spay and neuter their loved pets so they can keep them and not continue to add to the overpopulation problem.

It means going the extra mile in the veterinarian care we provide for all of our fostered and adoptable animals. Some of them come in needing so much more that simply vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery.

For other groups your donations help feed a family, help with a bus token, with a rent deposit, with car repair.

We are truly fortunate to live in MN where there are so many people who wish to help and care for others less fortunate.

Thank you! Click here to make your contribution!

Max says THANK YOU too!

Adopt a Senior Dog month

2011-11-10T10:56:00.006-06:00

Petfinder encourages us to highlight different companion animals in different months -

special needs perhaps or senior pets -

Why would you want a senior pet? How long will it live? How will it fit into my lifestyle?

Qualities to cherish -

More settled and predictable

Known likes and dislikes

Love and loyalty

Tried and true

A couple of the older dogs that Pet Haven has right now are Max and Russell. Both are charmers.

Max -

What eyes!

Look at that inquisitive face!

What about my funny teeth?

House and kennel trained if you wish to kennel during the daytime.

Great companion - He's going to dance when you come home, be anxious to go for a short walk or outside to do his job, play with toys with you, snuggle down to feel your loving touch whenever you'd like.

Russ is another of our older dogs.

He's fostered with a retired couple who have another dog.

He loves deck sitting (and running in the fenced yard) with whomever is sitting on the deck or puttering in the yard.

He's a shorty and doesn't get up on furniture, but he'll keep you company wherever you are in the house.

Russ has some arthritis in his back and gets some medications for that - who doesn't have a little arthritis as they get older?

Russ would prefer a home with no young children - maybe a home with one or two folks who have time to watch tv with him, get him out for short walks, who will enjoy his sparkling eyes and energetic spirit.

That's Russ on the left - ready to play fight with his house buddy.

He likes to play in the fresh snow.

Russ and Max came to Pet Haven because their former owner's could no longer keep them. Not enough time? Change or loss of job? Foreclosure?

Both of these boys hope that someone will chose him for their home.

Perhaps a senior pet will live another 4-6 years.

Perhaps, if you think about it, that is just the right time commitment for you to make.

Everyone's lives change - moves, job and schedule change, retirement, parents to assist as they age.

Not all of us are able to make a commitment to a young dog who will be with them for 14-18 years.

Let's take a fresh look at these senior pets with wide open eyes and see all they have to offer -

You will be the most important person in their life. Who wouldn't like to have the kind of companion to come home to?

Adoption Day - 2 locations

2011-11-05T08:04:00.003-05:00

Small dogs - Chuck and Don's in Wayzata, 11-1 p.m.

Medium/large dogs - PetCo Richfield 11-1 p.m.

It will be a day full of doggy smiles, tail wags and kisses! Stop by and share in the fun, meet your next best friend!

Chocolate!

2011-10-31T11:03:00.004-05:00

Somehow it seems appropriate if we talk about Chocolate on Halloween!

Buddy is a chocolate lab, looking for a home!

He listens to commands and obeys then, isn't going to get up on the bed or couch uninvited, and is willing to ignore 'people' food.

This was inadvertently tested one day when the foster was eating a bagel, left it on the coffee table to go do something and forgot all about it! Hurrying back to the room she found Buddy still there and the bagel - untouched by doggy tongue, just waiting for her to finish.

Buddy has been with cats and does fine with them.

He loves to run and play and would enjoy someone who liked to run daily and who would take him along - unless it is too hot, of course.

He also is good off-leash at the dog park and sticks close by. Bud enjoys other dogs too. And hanging with his owners, getting lots of scritches and helping you nap!

Buddy says he's good at almost everything in his life - except where is that forever home? Hoping to see those folks coming around the corner soon -

Sat. Oct. 29

2011-10-28T18:21:00.006-05:00

Will you be getting your pumpkin? planning the best face for it and your costume?

Pet Haven dogs have a VERY busy Sat. and then will put all 4 feet up on Sunday for a well-deserved day of rest!

Adoption: Sat. Oct. 29 , 11-1 p.m.

PetCo Richfield 66th and Lyndale Ave. S.

All sizes of dogs in one location, all looking for their forever homes.

Captain

Gigi, rat terrier

Bella, rat terrier

and others will be in attendance Sat. a.m.

Stop by for the occasion and wish all the participants (canine!) well as they strut their stuff that evening at our prime fundraiser for the year!

Pet Haven Fall Benefit - Sat. Oct. 29, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

A time for us to brag about all of our donors, all of our grant recipients, all of our volunteers and dogs and cats!

Hotel Sofitel in Bloomington.

Can't stop in for the whole evening? Come by 7:30 or shortly after and still have time to place a bid on one of many, varied baskets which will help us raise funds.

Learn more about our Spay Neuter Initiative grants and the remarkable work they do, make a donation to Pet Haven and specify to a particular portion of the budget if you wish; such as spay/neuter, health care, extraordinary care, etc.

Pet Haven strives to educate, work collaboratively to better the animals in our community.

Watch the style show! Best costumed dogs and cats in the Twin Cities, thanks to Lulu and Luigi's!

It's a fun evening and a wonderful close to a busy, busy day.

Bella - busy, lover, task oriented!

2011-10-25T19:36:00.006-05:00

Bella

What does Bella like to do?

Play -

Jump -

Find just the right toy for the moment -

Snuggle -

Get treats -

All of the above and a few more besides!

Bella has lots of personality and energy. She loves having a job to do and being rewarded with a treat when she does it right.

At just 11 pounds, Bella is a little thing but her personality more than makes up for her petite size.

Bella has a fenced yard and enjoys romping but really loves to go for walks with you every day too. If it gets too cold a good game of tug-o-war is a substitute.

Do you have neighbors who love to meet and treat your dog? Bella knows just whose doorbell to ring to find the best treaters!

Bella is a wonderful dog for the experienced owner who wants a great companion who will cuddle and be involved in keeping Bella challenged with games and treats.

She can amuse herself and loves to interact with you so you get the best of both worlds. She's fine being left alone in her kennel during the daytime and anxious for a trip outside when you get home, dinner and a walk, house-toy games or people time.

Inquiring minds want to know!

2011-10-18T18:35:00.008-05:00

Where do Pet Haven dogs come from?

One of the most frequently asked questions for the dog division is, "Where do you get your dogs from?"

There are several animal welfare organizations that we hear from regularly.

Some in the Twin Cities area.

Some in Minnesota.

A few that may be out of MN.

As a MnPAW partner, we are also asked to help other organizations in that group and the Animal Humane Society in rehoming dogs taken in under their care. Because Pet Haven is a limited admission shelter we can only bring in dogs (or cats) when we have foster home space available.

Pets Under Police Security (PUPS)

This is one of the impounds that contacts us. It is located in Maple Grove, and serves as animal control for Maple Grove, Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Champlin, Crystal, New Hope and Plymouth.

Fresno came from PUPS

Red Lake Rosie's Rescue (RLRR)

RLRR rescue is located on the Red Lake Indian Reservation and works to rescue dogs and cats from abandonment, surrender, impound facilities and strays. As with many rescued pets, previous health care may have been sketchy to non-existent and they may need longer term care to recover and be ready for a new home.

Captain came from RLRR

People for Pets

This group is an open admission shelter in rural IA. As with dogs and cats here in this area, the economy has impacted whether owners can give consistent care and keep their animals. Arrival in a more metropolitan area helps them to have a better chance at adoption.

Gigi came from People for Pets

Once a Pet Haven dog (or cat) always a Pet Haven dog

Pet Haven stands behind the adoptions of dogs previously placed through Pet Haven. Pet Haven works with an owner to take back a former Pet Haven alum or will help the re-homing process.

This Gigi was placed through Pet Haven when she was a young lady. She has been returned and hopes to find a retirement home now that she is a little older - one that will take her for walks, car rides and opportunities to be with her family which is what she loves best!

It takes a village to raise a child. It also takes a village to home and re home dogs and cats. Many people with different points of view come together to help make the world a better place for those we can take into our care.

Thank YOU!

You make this possible through publicity, volunteer work, adopting, outreach, fund raising and donations.

Dog Adoption This Saturday Oct 15th 11am - 1pm

2011-10-14T14:53:00.005-05:00

Come meet your new best friend...or just stop by to say hi! Lots of adorable, charming dogs are waiting to meet you!

Medium and Large Dogs (25 lbs +) at Petco 710 West 66th St, Richfield from 11a - 1p. Meet Buddy and Fresno and their friends!

Small dogs will be hanging at Calhoun Chuck and Don's - 3246 West Lake St, Minneapolis from 11a to 1pm.

Pet Haven Awards $18,000 in spay/neuter grants

2011-10-12T07:42:00.001-05:00

Along with puppies, often comes 'awwww ... how cute', and then there's a lot of baby talk to puppies. Yes, puppies (and kittens) are cute ... puppies are also a lot of work and for every litter of puppies born it takes away potential homes for adult dogs waiting in impounds and shelters/rescues. There is a serious pet overpopulation problem and Pet Haven is committed to helping reduce pet overpopulation through our Spay Neuter Initiative. As much as we love puppies (and kittens) we need to prevent any more litters, and we can do so by ensuring that every dog or cat is spayed or neutered.

Every cat and dog adopted through Pet Haven is spayed or neutered prior to adoption – doing so is a measure that we’ve always been deeply committed to. To help combat the overpopulation issue, Pet Haven offers grants to other non-profit groups in an attempt to expand spay/neuter efforts. Some of these groups handle surrendered animals while some help communities get control of feral cat populations. Others work to reduce the number of unwanted litters among large breed dogs or offer low income pet owners the assistance that they need.

Ahnung - Pet Haven alum. Taken back in Oct, 2008
shortly after being rescued by Karen of Red Lake Rosie's.
She was exhausted and beaten down from having
litter after litter. Thanks to Pet Haven she no longer
has to have any more litters.

Last year, Pet Haven awarded $15,300 dollars to seven groups whose combined efforts totaled 302 spays and neuters (cats, dogs and even one bunny)! There’s no end to the creativity and ingenuity that contributes to theses program’s success. In an effort to reach large dog owners (large dog spay surgery is the most costly of the spay surgeries), one group posted spay/neuter assistance flyers on trash cans along bike trails and walking paths where dog owners throw their doo-doo bags, as well as at Laundromats where dog owners come to wash oversized dog beds that don’t fit in conventional machines – their efforts resulted in three times the amount of large breed dog spay/neuters than in past years! Other groups have sponsored “Spayghetti” dinners to fundraise and educate their communities while another launched a Facebook campaign called “Beat the Heat” geared toward encouraging pet owners to spay/neuter early in the spring to beat the first heat cycle of the breeding season.

This year, we had a record number of applicants and awarded a total of $18,000 to 13 organizations. Part of our program at the Fall Benefit will be to acknowledge the great work our grant recipients are doing, and even be able to personally recognize a few of the recipients, as representatives from some of the organizations will be in attendance!

Pet Haven is an all-volunteer foster-based rescue. All donations raised from our Fall Benefit will go directly to our adoption program and our spay/neuter efforts.

Please help us in our efforts to reduce pet overpopulation. If you haven't purchased your ticket yet for Pet Haven's Fall Benefit on Saturday, October 29th be sure to visit our website www.pethavenMN.org and purchase your ticket today.

Gigi again!

2011-10-02T08:30:00.009-05:00

This Gigi isn't quite as small as the other one - she weighs 35 # and is just a medium sized girl.

She fits the bill for that famous song in other ways too -

Thank heaven for little girls they grow up in the most delightful way!

Those little eyes so helpless and appealing one day will flash and send you crashin' thru the ceilin'

Gigi loves people - everyone she meets, children and adults, are going to be lucky enough to be considered her friend.

Gigi was returned to Pet Haven when her owner lost her home due to foreclosure. The economy is tough for people and pets alike, but Gigi had some back-up insurance - Pet Haven.

She has wonderful house manners and can be left uncrated all day while you are at work. She will greet you with a smile, her cute little shuffle dance and a 'woof' and be happy to hear all about your day.

Do you need to get outside to relax a little? Gigi loves to go for walks. She's living with 3 adults right now so she has plenty of walking partners which keeps her active and happy.

Gigi is 10 yrs. old but acts like a 2 yr. old. She's full of loving and snuggling and general hanging out time.

Gigi is an American Staffordshire Terrier and an excellent example of her breed - mellow, happy, people friendly and a love.

What kind of family would Gigi choose for herself?

One who will give her lots of belly rubs and time for hugs and kisses.

One who will take her for walks so both of you can de-stress from your day.

One who enjoys showing off their dog when guests come over - Gigi loves to meet new people.

One who wishes to provide a home for a mature girl - not all of us can adopt a companion who will live for 15 years or more. Some of us are at a time in our lives when having that most loved pet for 4+ years seems just right for our life plans.

Who would be happier? Gigi? or you?

Gigi will be a star on TCL (Twin Cities Live) on Monday afternoon, Oct. 3, 2011 between 3 and 4 p.m. Catch it live! Check her out on line! She'll be promoting all of our adoptable dogs and cats and the Fall Benefit!

The Great Minnesota Pet Together!

2011-09-29T10:18:00.002-05:00

Saturday, Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Pet Haven Dogs will be in attendance at this super adoption event.

Stop by, meet a rotating group of foster dogs and learn more about them and about other dogs in foster care.

There will be 26+ groups in attendance ranging from limited admission, open admission, foster home based, shelters and humane societies.

MN Fairgrounds, International Market Square.

No admission fee

No charge for parking

Stop by - your next best canine buddy may be waiting for you!

Thank heaven for little girls -

2011-09-25T19:48:00.006-05:00

Gigi!

At not quite 10 pounds, Gigi fits the description of a little girl.

She loves everyone she meets and gets along well with children also.

What does she like to do?

Run around in the yard -

Jump while she's playing - maybe she has springs in her legs?

Play and play -

Jump into your arms with ease -

Go for walks -

Go for car rides with you -

Spend plenty of time in your lap!

Gigi's foster thinks she would be great at agility if you are interested in that. She's very intelligent and food motivated - all traits that will lead to fun training sessions and a dog you will enjoy and want to brag about!

She'll want someone active in her life who will play in the yard with her and takes her for walks and more walks. A family with children, a couple, a single person looking for a wonderful buddy, someone who has a stay at home aunt or grandparent, someone who works from home and needs to take a few breaks in the day for some laughter, petting and play with Gigi!

Check her out. Submit an application. She's waiting!

A Creative Way to support Homeless Animals

2011-09-21T13:23:00.000-05:00

Tula, adopted from Pet Haven in 2004.

A few weeks ago Pet Haven got an email from Alecia, who adopted Tula from Pet Haven in 2004. She wanted to give us an update and to also let us know that she was getting married (congratulations Alecia!) soon and since her best friend Tula wasn't able to physically be at her wedding she wanted to honor her ....

And in Tula's honor, Alecia and her soon-to-be husband Ryan have made a $500 donation and would like for Tula to be recognized as a Fall Benefit bronze sponsor!!!

This was Alecia's original email to us: "I adopted by precious Tula (formerly Petula), a cute little Pekingnese, from Pet Haven approximately 6 years ago when I lived in Minnesota (I now live in Chicago). She has been my best friend and the best dog I could ever ask for. She has been with me through so many ups and downs, and I think of her as my little angel. Thank you Pet Haven for making this possible for me and Tula :)"

Alecia, Tula and Ryan

For the amount she was wanting to donate Pet Haven (and I'm sure Tula and her mom and dad-to-be would agree!) felt like she deserved even more recognition and could get that as a Fall Benefit bronze sponsor!

Alecia had the following to share with us:

"We adopted Tula from the Pet Haven in 2004, and I thank God for bringing us together on a regular basis. Although I don't know how Tula got to Pet Haven, I do know that her and I were meant to find each other. She has been a huge comfort during some very difficult times, and her funny face always seems to bring out smiles to everyone she meets. Tula and I moved from the lakes of Minnesota to the big city of Chicago in 2006. While in Chicago, I met the love of my life, Ryan, and now Tula and I are looking forward to becoming one big happy family when Ryan and I get married on October 8th. I wanted Tula to be the flower girl in the wedding, but it was just too difficult since our wedding is in Florida. In order to make Tula's presence felt at the wedding, I decided to make a wedding donation to the Pet Haven and put a write-up in our wedding program about Tula and the wonderful organization that helped bring us together. I am hoping that this will help raise awareness for the Pet Haven or even for other local animal rescues or humane societies. I feel very thankful and indebted to Pet Haven for allowing me to adopt my precious Tula. She is a true blessing, and I love her with all of my heart! Thank you Pet Haven. Keep up the good work helping dogs, cats, and pet lovers like me!"

Thank you Alecia and Ryan ... and congrats Tula ... you are one lucky pup :) I am sure your mom (and soon dad-to-be would argue with you that they are the lucky ones!

If you would like to honor your pet/family member too, consider a Fall Benefit bronze sponsorship! For more info click here or email marilou@pethavenmn.org.

The Fall Benefit is also around the corner ---- Saturday, October 29th! If you haven't purchased your ticket be sure to purchase your ticket today. Tickets can be purchased online (www.pethavenMN.org). How about gathering a group of your friends together and buying a table of 10 ... as an all-volunteer organization, all funds raised from the Fall Benefit go directly towards helping homeless dogs and cats.

2010 Fall Benefit
Photo by Sarah Beth Photography

The Great Minnesota Pet Together, Saturday, 10/1

2011-09-13T16:12:00.000-05:00

The Great Minnesota Pet Together

One day super pet adoption event at state fairgrounds

Get ready for The Great Minnesota Pet Together at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds on Saturday, October 1^st. This pet adoption extravaganza is sponsored by PetSmart Charities® and MnPAW (Minnesota Partnership for Animal Welfare). Hundreds of puppies, dogs, cat and kittens will be onsite for this one-day super pet adoption event. Adoptable pets from more than 25 animal welfare and rescue organizations from around the state will be ready to leash up and head home. There is no charge for admission to the event.

Date: Saturday, October 1, 2011

Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Minnesota State Fairgrounds International Bazaar

Cost: Free

Adoption fees and policies are set by each participating group and not by event sponsors. All dogs and cats will have received a medical check-up and age-appropriate vaccinations. For health and safety reasons, please leave your currents pet at home.

MnPAW is a coalition of animal welfare organizations throughout Minnesota who are committed to working together to aid animals. For more information on the event, visit www.mnpaw.org or call 763-489-2250.

If you are a rescue or shelter and would like to participate in the super adoption event email marilou@pethavenmn.org or mpelka@animalhumanesociety.org.

MnPAW members include: Animal Allies Humane Society, Animal Humane Society, A Rotta Love Plus, Chuck & Don's Pet Food Outlet, Minneapolis Animal Care & Control, Minnesota Spay/Neuter Project, The Pet Project, Pet Haven Inc. of Minnesota, RAGOM - Retrieve A Golden of Minnesota, Tri-County Humane Society and The Humane Society of Kandiyohi & Meeker Counties.

Adopted Dog Update: Abby ... Already Home!

2011-09-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Seven months after coming to Pet Haven, cute little Abby has found her forever home – with her foster mom and dad!

Abby is a 2 – 3 year old toy poodle mix. She came to Pet Haven from the Animal Humane Society (AHS). Abby was one of 72 dogs rescued from a hoarding situation in central Minnesota. A few of the dogs were “super shy” and needed to be socialized as they were fearful of people. These dogs would not do well at the shelter so AHS reached out to Pet Haven and other foster-home based rescue groups to take these dogs into our foster homes for rehab and placement. Pet Haven was able to help 3 of them.

More information and a TV news story about the rescue are available at http://www.animalhumanesociety.org/news/72-small-dogs-rescued-ahs.

Abby likely had experienced very little human touch before she was rescued. She is very fearful of people. Even after 7 months in their home, Sally and Erich still cannot pet her. Sally reports:

“When Abby first came to our house she hid out in a pen we set up for her in our family room. She ate and slept in the pen, and pottied on a pad in the pen. When we could supervise, we left the door to the pen open and she began to explore the house and interact with our other 3 dogs. However, Abby wanted nothing to do with us and would run to the pen if she caught us looking at her or if we reached towards her.

Abby quickly formed a bond with Trixie, our 3 year old yorkie (also adopted from Pet Haven). I have to give Trixie much of the credit for the progress Abby has made. The first important thing Abby learned from Trixie is that if your people go into the kitchen and you follow them there you often get a bit of cheese. We had to toss the cheese to Abby at first because she would not come close enough to take it from our hands, but that was how she learned to look at us when we called her name. We then moved on to teaching her the “touch” game – where she had to reach out and touch her nose to our fingertip to get the cheese treat. Trixie had that one down in a minute and gladly demonstrated it for Abby many times. Eventually Abby got brave enough to touch my finger and we had our first breakthrough.

Abby and Trixie

There have been other breakthroughs in the weeks and months since she first touched her nose to my finger. She happily takes treats from our hands, follows us around the house, has started sleeping in a dog bed at night in our bedroom, gets excited and licks my hand when I come home from work, and jumps up on the couch with us while we watch TV – out of our reach – but on the same couch. As she gets less fearful, we are seeing her playful, inventive personality come through. She is very smart and it is fun to watch her figure things out.

We have found that valium helps to calm Abby somewhat when we have to handle her for grooming or to have the vet examine her. The person who catches her needs to wear gloves as she often bites once (while frightened people scream, some frightened dogs bite) but then is OK, as long as she is in a firm grasp.

But, we still can’t touch Abby. If I push her we have a setback. So, we are letting her progress as she is comfortable. Those experienced with super shy dogs tell me she may never be “normal” and that it could take 2 or 3 or more years before I can reach out and pet her. It is emotionally hard to have a dog in your home that you can’t touch. Part of why dogs are great companions is because stroking them calms us and makes us happy. Hopefully, with Trixie’s help, one day Abby can fill that role. In the meantime we are celebrating each breakthrough and watching her personality unfold. Many thanks to Pet Haven and AHS for rescuing this sweet little girl and bringing her into our lives!”

Woofstock

2011-09-07T08:41:00.006-05:00

Haven't been to Woofstock before?

Join Pet Haven and other exhibitors on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Looking for the perfect morning and afternoon to spend with your dog and meet adoptable dogs, other owners and fosters?

Charlie - cute and spunky!

Come for fun and games, lots of laughs, dogs to brighten your day, learn more about non profits you and your dog can support and enjoy the community and sale items in the Linden Hills area.

Pet Haven will have a booth with adoptable dogs present, volunteers to explain what we do and how you might help, and treats for the pooch in your life.

Russ(ell) - upper middle age, loves people, great companion, hopes for a fenced yard so he can hunt and chase the birds

Linden Hills Co-op will donate a percentage of Saturday's receipts to Pet Haven! Pick up some groceries or picnic supplies at the deli on your way home and help us re-home, educate, advocate and subsidize spay and neuter for owned animals.

Tell your friends! Hope to see you there!

Beau - big boy, laid back but enjoys a long walk and keeping you company -

Pet Haven Dog Adoptions, Sat. Sept. 3, 11 am - 1 pm

2011-09-02T20:53:00.008-05:00

Lots of friendly, wistful, smiling, hopeful faces - waiting to meet you!

Large and medium Dog Adoption: PetCo Richfield, 66th and Lyndale Ave. S.

Small Dog Adoption: Chuck and Don's Wayzata location

Doggie kisses free of charge!

Pet Haven Fall Benefit tickets on Sale

2011-08-26T08:04:00.000-05:00

PET HAVEN, INC. OF MINNESOTA TO HOLD 5^TH ANNUAL FALL BENEFIT

Local Fundraiser to Include Dinner, Silent Auction, Dog and Cat Fashion Show

WHO: Pet Haven, Inc. of Minnesota

WHAT: 5^th Annual Fall Benefit

WHERE: Hotel Sofitel

5601 West 78th Street

Bloomington, MN 55439

WHEN: Saturday, October 29, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

WHY: To raise funds and make a difference in the lives of the thousands of homeless and neglected dogs and cats throughout Minnesota

Pet Haven, Inc. of Minnesota, a Minneapolis-based nonprofit animal rescue, announced that they will be returning to the Hotel Sofitel to host this year’s 5^th annual Fall Benefit, the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year. The evening will be kicked off with a silent auction, followed by dinner, and a dog and cat fashion show that will feature several of Pet Haven’s adoptable dogs and cats. Accompanied by local celebrities down the runway, the animals will model the latest attire and accessories from Lulu and Luigi, a local French-inspired pet boutique, in hopes of impressing their potential future families. Proceeds from the fundraiser will support Pet Haven’s mission: rescuing and re-homing animals, spaying/neutering to reduce overpopulation, educating communities about the importance of responsible guardianship and serving as an advocate for animals that do not have a voice.

Tickets are now on sale and include the following options:

· Single - $50
· Single Preferred Seating - $75
· Group Table (seats 10) - $500
· Group Table Preferred Seating (seats 10) - $750

To purchase your tickets and learn more about what the evening entails, visit www.pethavenmn.org and click on Fall Benefit.

Many thanks to our sponsors:

Event Sponsor: Chuck and Don's Pet Food Outlet

Platinum Sponsors: Bubbly Paws and Photographers Guild

Fund the Need Sponsor: Adogo Pet Hotel

Gold Sponsors: Canine Coach and Downtown Dogs Minneapolis

Silver Sponsor: Lake Harriet Veterinary and Optum/Insight

Bronze Sponsor: Neiman Marcus, Plymouth Heights Pet Hospital and Tuka (Pet Haven alum)

If you are interested in donating to our silent auction please download our procurement form. If you have any questions please contact Marilou at marilou@pethavenMN.org.

RIP Mario ... you will be missed ....

2011-08-24T05:00:00.001-05:00

Mario was blessed to have had the chance to spend his last months in the loving home of Pet Haven volunteers Sharon and Barbara. Here are their reflections:

"Mario came for a couple of weeks, and stayed almost nine months. That kind of thing seems to happen with a lot of our "respite" foster dogs. They're supposed to stay for a couple of days while a new foster arrangement is worked out, and in the end we become the new foster moms. With Mario it was a little different, though. After a time those other dogs found their forever homes and left our care. Mario, it turned out, had a liver tumor, along with severe arthritis, and was not adoptable. He needed a place to live the rest of his life, which would probably not be too long. And so Mario entered "hospice care" in our home.

Mario was about 12 1/2 years old when we picked him up just before Thanksgiving. He had a little trouble walking very far, and trouble climbing up steps. If he was laying on the wood floor, he couldn't get up again on his own, but if we managed to convince him to lay down on one of the rugs, he could push himself up and stand. He loved his food and would bark, almost without breathing, until the bowl was down in front of him. And he loved his treats.

He also loved his walks, though he couldn't walk very far on his own. We didn't want to leave him home alone when we walked our two dogs, and Liz from Lulu and Luigi came to the rescue with the loan of her own doggie stroller. Mario looked so happy when we took him out and he could smell all the good outside smells. People would do double takes when they realized there was a little white dog in the stroller.

With love, care and quite a few medications, Mario held his own for about 6 months. In the last three months he had more trouble getting up even on rugs, until he couldn't raise himself up at all any more. He was no longer able to go down the stairs to the back yard on his own, so we carried him down as well as up. But he still perked up when it was meal time or when we put him in the stroller for a walk.

In early August it was clear to us that he was struggling much more to just move and breathe, and we made the difficult decision to euthanize him. Our Pet Haven leadership was so supportive and understanding, and they trusted that we would know when it was the right time. Mario went very peacefully, and we cried but knew that he was no longer suffering. We were glad to have those 9 months with him and he'll always have a special place in our hearts."

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you Barbara and Sharon for opening up your heart to a beautiful spirit and giving him the most beautiful 9 months he could've ever imagined. Thank you for your selfless act. There's a bright star now up in the night skies ... it's Mario and he's shining down on us and he will forever live on in your hearts.

Adopted Dog Update: Phoebe the Firefighter!

2011-08-22T05:00:00.000-05:00

Phoebe was adopted from Pet Haven in November, 2006. She is now a member of a family of dad Scott and two rat terrier siblings, Lucy and Tucker ... could a girl ask for any more?? From the photo on the left there is no doubt that this is one happy family!!

We recently got an update from Phoebe's dad and had to share his wonderful note:

"Dear Pet Haven,

I wanted to thank you and give you an update on Phoebe. I adopted Phoebe through Pet Haven on Wednesday November 22, 2006. I started looking on Pet Finder in October ‘06 for a rat terrier. Not too far into my search I came across Phoebe’s picture and fell in love. I then went to Pet Haven’s website and Phoebe was the featured pet of the week…I was thinking she would have a lot of interest and I probably wouldn’t have a chance. I kept thinking positive thoughts, if it is meant to be it will happen. I went through the application process and I was right, she had 3-5 inquires before mine and was already set up for a meet and greet.

That didn’t work out, so in the mean time I had been in contact a few times with Phoebe’s foster mom Kendall. She had such a loving and caring foster family. We are still in contact and Phoebe sends a Christmas photo card to her foster family every year. So you figured out what happened. My best friend’s wife Tristan and I and one of their rat terrier’s Vinny went to meet Phoebe and to sign the adoption papers if all went well…which it did. Lola is Vinny’s sister and the one that started my love for the rat terrier breed. Phoebe has a rescued brother, Tucker (4) and rescued sister Lucy (4) that joined our family the summer of 2007. Phoebe turned 5 years young on June 18th, 2010."

Click here to read the rest of the story and to learn more about how Phoebe saves the day!!

Working together to save another dog's life ... Jake shines on!

2011-08-20T20:47:00.004-05:00

Jake

[Reflections by Marilou Chanrasmi, co-director Dog Division for Pet Haven, and board member of Pet Haven and MnPAW]

As of 5 pm last night, today was going to be an incredibly sad day ... it turned out to be a glorious day ... here is Jake's story:

Pet Haven is a member of the coalition Minnesota Partnership for Animal Welfare ... MnPAW... (www.mnpaw.org). In early May MnPAW got involved in an effort to save dogs up at Leech Lake Indian reservation, 3 hours north of the Twin Cities. [To learn more about these efforts visit the Leech Lake Legacy blog.] To date 83 dogs have been given a second chance. All have been adopted or transferred to rescues with the exception of one dog, Barry who is still up for adoption through Animal Allies in Duluth (a MnPAW member). Of the 83, two (Cass and Pepper) had serious medical issues that were not treatable and were humanely euthanized. They are bright stars up in the night skies and will always be remembered. Jake (photo above) arrived on the July 30th transport from the reservation. He arrived at the Animal Humane Society (also a MnPAW member) that Saturday, was vetted, did great on the behavior assessment and was placed up for adoption on 8/3. A customer witnessed what appeared to be a possible seizure and Jake was pulled off of the adoption floor and unfortunately due to possible epilepsy was no longer placeable through AHS. We reached out to MnPAW members, after which we then reached out to other rescues, sanctuaries and shelters not only in Minnesota but across the country. Would anyone consider taking in Jake, a gorgeous 1 - 2 year old lab/shepherd mix? Email after email came back with heart felt apologies ... in the end the answer was always no. After three weeks of reaching out, a decision was made yesterday to humanely euthanize Jake. Pet Haven, like many other groups, didn't have any open fosters to take him ... let alone a dog with 'possible' seizures. I arrived at AHS late yesterday afternoon with Jenny Fitzer (the volunteer leading the effort to save the dogs from Leech Lake reservation). We spent an hour and a half with Jake ... took him out for a long walk, let him feel the sun on his back, let him roll around in the grass... it was a heart breaking afternoon with our hearts so heavy. This is the heart ache of so many on the front lines of animal rescue. The reality is we know we can't save them all. But Jake? He was full of life, of joy, of sweetness. We both left AHS at 5 pm with tears in our eyes. I was going to return the next day to be with Jake as he got euthanized. I was there for both Pepper and Cass when they were euthanized ... as painful as it was I knew in my gut it was the right thing to do for Pepper and Cass. For Jake, my gut was screaming out to me that it's not Jake's time .. we don't have enough information about his condition and whether or not he really has epilepsy. They were only 'suspected' seizures.

As I drove away, an idea popped into my head ... earlier in the week I had the good fortune of meeting Tom Morehouse the owner of a brand new doggie daycare in Bloomington, Lucky Dog Pet Lodge. We discussed ways that we could partner and Tom offered to foster a dog for Pet Haven at no cost. He gave me a tour of his facility which was extremely impressive ... 18,000 sq ft of outside romping room and loving, caring, compassionate and knowledgeable staff. I called Tom as I left AHS and filled him in on Jake's story. He indicated that even if he has seizures that he was prepared to deal with it and he was happy to foster Jake. I said to Tom, "You were truly my last hope. I would've completely understood if you couldn't but I just had to try. I just need some time to get him checked out and further evaluated by a vet. By saying yes to Jake you have essentially saved his life." Last night was a flurry of phone calls to ensure that Jake would no longer be euthanized, that he got in to see a vet (thank you to Dr. Vicki of Act V Rescue & Rehabilitation, for squeezing Jake in this morning) and that I had everything all lined up for Jake on his next stop .... Lucky Dog Pet Lodge!

There isn't confirmation that what Jake had was really a seizure on 8/3 on the adoption floor at AHS. He's been great since then, and last night and today has just been super! He stopped by the Pet Haven medium/large dog adoption event today after his vet visit to meet a few of the other dogs and did great at the adoption event with the other dogs, adults and kids. At Lucky Dog Pet Lodge he acclimated very quickly to the other dogs and within 10-15 minutes was romping around with them and getting much needed exercise after being in a shelter environment and a kennel for 3 weeks. The staff at Lucky Dog Pet Lodge have already fallen in love with him. They say he's a really smart boy. If you are interested in learning more about Jake contact me at marilou@pethavenmn.org. He will not be available for adoption until August 30th.

Today the night skies will be less one bright star ... it's not yet Jake's time and he will continue to shine down on earth .... this amazing spirit is touching the hearts of so many. Despite all the neglect and abuse he endured up at Leech Lake reservation (his body still carries scars from many old wounds) you wouldn't know it by how sweet, gentle and kind he is ....

Thank you Lucky Dog Pet Lodge for partnering with Pet Haven and for giving this boy another chance. Thank you for making today a beautiful day .... tears that fall today, are simply tears of joy .... Thank you for giving Jake another chance!

For more photos of Jake click here.

Jake goes for a walk with us
right outside Lucky Dog Pet Lodge

Adoption Event tomorrow, Saturday, 8/20

2011-08-19T05:00:00.001-05:00

Beau

Pet Haven adoptable dogs will be hanging out on Saturday between 11 am and 1 pm in hopes that you will stop by to say hi, and maybe even consider filling out an application to bring them home forever???

Medium/Large dogs will be at:
Richfield Petco
710 West 66th Street
Richfield, MN
For directions click here.

Small dogs will be at:
Calhoun Chuck & Don's Pet Food Outlet
3246 West Lake Street
Minneapolis, MN
For directions click here.

If you are interested in learning more about fostering feel free to stop by the adoption event to talk with one of our volunteers to learn more.

Gigi

Jessie ... famous Pet Haven website dog hanging in there!

2011-08-18T11:01:00.000-05:00

Jessie in March, 2011

If you take a look at the Pet Haven website (www.pethavenMN.org) you will see on the top banner a gorgeous chocolate lab. Her name is Jessie. She was adopted in 1997 by Nancy and Tom when she was just 1 year old. Nancy and Tom are heavily involved in the animal rescue/welfare efforts in Minnesota and give up so much of their hearts, resource and time to help abandoned, abused and neglected animals. They are involved with Pet Haven, Red Lake Rosie's Rescue, and helping the dogs and cats from the Beltrami Humane Society and rescuing dogs from Leech Lake Reservation. This morning I received an update from Nancy on sweet Jessie, aka Jess-a-roonie-be-bomp :)

She's hanging in there, but she's fading ... what we do know is that she was blessed in a million ways to have landed in the home of Nancy and Tom. Please keep Jess-a-roonie-be-bomp in your thoughts and prayers:

"Little Jessie is fading away. I wish she looked as healthy now as she does in that recent photo of her in her winter jacket. She promised me that she would make it to summer because this is her favorite time of the year, and now she is certainly stretching her time out. But sadly she is skin and bones, and gave up on dog chow a couple months ago. We offer her quite a menu to pick from each day and will feed her whatever she wishes: pot pies, pork roast, beef roast au jus, baked chicken, venison formula of canned dog chow, rabbit formula of dog chow.....sometimes she gets what we call "doggie derves" (a spin off of the "hor d' oeuvre") where we dip high protein puppy biscuits into drippings for her. But her most favorite snack is the 'nilla wafers. Even with this menu she continues to lose weight....we suspect a cancer. Her tail still wiggles altho plastered to her cute little rear end and she always greets us and the other dogs every morning. She lets me gently rub her neck and ears, she still likes it when I grab her and give her a "raspberry!" on her neck. She has doggie dementia so paces quite a bit, will only take the freshest and coldest of water in her dish, and always wants everyone to be in bed by 10:30. She is a nut and we cannot tell you how grateful we have been all these years to have had her in our lives since her adoption from Pet Haven in 1997 at age 1. There are tons of incredible moments we have shared and equally as many photos. The day we say goodbye to her is something we cannot prepare for, but in the meantime we enjoy every second we can with her. We are grateful to have found her at Pet Haven."

Thank you Nancy and Tom for all you have done for Jessie ... and for all you continue to do for animals in need.

Bear is adopted!

2011-08-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

Bear was adopted to a family who lost their 6 yr old pomeranian about six months ago. Appears that Bear won the heart of his new human siblings ... somehow, we suspect the feeling was very mutual :)

Bear has a big back yard to run around in and lots of doggy neighbors to play with ....

Congrats Bear ... and Congrats to Bear's new family!!

Prince reunited with his brother

2011-08-15T05:00:00.000-05:00

Prince (formerly Buster) as a puppy with his
brother Tuxedo (formerly Romeo)

In the summer of 2010 Pet Haven took in 3 springer/beagle puppies. They all went into foster homes and were adopted out. In July of 2011 Prince was returned to Pet Haven for some territorial guarding and barking. He is also shy and fearful around men and needs a family willing to work with him on some of his issues. He attended one of our adoption events and his photo was posted on our facebook fan page. The adopter of Prince's brother, Tuxedo noticed him on our facebook fan page and inquired about him .... well, suffice to say that this story has an incredibly happy ending .... maybe it was fate that Prince was to be returned to Pet Haven so that he could be reunited with his brother Tuxedo. Tuxedo and his dad go on runs together ... maybe Prince will become a runner too!

We got the following update from the home of the happy brothers, Prince and Tux!

"After my email last week things have been going very well with Prince. I think he's feeling more comfortable and safe around us. He's getting into more things around the house, so we watch him closely to let him know what's okay and what isn't. He's doing really well with learning the rules of the house.

We've been walking everyday, sometimes twice a day, and he is doing so much better on his walks. When we see another dog I bring him close, if he starts to get really anxious and out of control I pull off to the side and make him sit while the other dog passes us, we haven't had any more near fights. When people walk past us he barely even flinches, I still bring him in nice and close to me just in case he gets nervous.

He is feeling a bit more comfortable with our neighbor kids who come over to play. I make him stay away when they first come in the house, if needed I'll put his gentle leader on to calm him down. A couple of times I just got it out and when he saw it he went and laid down on his blanket. Then I just have the kids go and play and when he's ready he'll go and sniff them and then go about his business.

Prince the cuddlier

He doesn't do as well with grownups, men mostly, coming in the house, he gets very scared and growls, so we always have his gentle leader on when an adult man comes over or will put him in his kennel. We'll be working on that.

We found out he very afraid of brooms and big sticks, so I have him leave the room I'm sweeping.

We went to our first training together last night and he did well in class, we've been practicing at home. He did both his anxious barking and growling at a couple of the other dogs as well as hiding behind me and being a bit fearful at times. The trainer saw everything before I even asked her about his fearfulness, after talking with her we will be going to the dog-to-dog aggression class this fall with him and possibly the dog-to-human one as well. She let me know she feels confident he can over come his condition, that made me feel good...she gave me some great ideas for helping in the mean time, we'll keep on working.

He's got such a great personality, him and Tux are very similar in the way they play and behave, but Prince is such a cuddlier and a little more reserved than Tux. We are having lots of fun with him. He has kind of learned how to play tug of war with Tux, he holds on to the other end of the rope toy and then lays on his belly while Tux pulls him across the floor, it's really funny and we all have to stop and watch no matter what we're doing."

Thanks to Melissa and family for welcoming Prince into your home and for working with this sweet boy. He couldn't have ended up in a better home than with you ... and what a bonus to be back with his brother after a year! Some things are just meant to be :)

And many thanks to Josh and Andrea for fostering Prince when he came back. If you or anyone you know would like to learn more about fostering with Pet Haven email us at volunteer@pethavenmn.org.

Toby: The Loveable Lapdog!

2011-08-12T08:26:00.000-05:00

Toby is a three and a half year old Pekingese/Papillon mix. He’s a handsome guy and he knows it! This guy may be a loveable little lapdog but he also doubles as guard dog. He enjoys cuddling with his person, going for walks, and carrying his favorite toy with him everywhere. He is on alert though and will keep watch over the house while you’re gone since he’s house trained and can be left on his own. Once you come home he will jump for joy and grab his toy to celebrate your arrival. He is a bit of a goofball and is good with traveling, kids, and other dogs once he’s gotten to know them. He also loves to run to burn off energy and at the end of the day would be happy to pass out on his dog bed. He is a loyal guy and loves people but doesn’t care much for felines.

Toby needs a family that will keep set boundaries for him and not just spoil him rotten; as hard as that is! Otherwise, in typical lapdog fashion he will assume the role of pack leader in the house. He needs his forever family to be able to introduce him to other dogs and people slowly so he has time to warm up to them. He does have experience living with other dogs in his foster home that were around his size. Toby is also a whiz with the tricks and knows how to sit, stay, lie down, jump, and shake. He can sit and put his paws out looking like he’s begging too. How could you say no to that handsome face? Toby’s forever home will be lucky to have such a loyal new member.

For more info on Toby email us at dogs@pethavenMN.org.

Kirby the love bug!

2011-08-10T05:00:00.000-05:00

Kirby is a Pomeranian and around twelve years young. He wants everyone to know he’s still got a lot of life and love left to give! They call him the Love Bug because he loves giving kisses and affection and is devoted to his person. He enjoys hanging outside and walking the perimeter of the yard while chatting with the neighbor dog. He also loves walks and a scratch behind the ear. He warms up quickly to new environments and enjoys following his foster mom around the house during the day. He passes out at night on the floor next to her. He is overjoyed when his person is home from work and lets them know they’re the most important thing in his world. Another bonus, his foster mom says he doesn’t shed that much!

Kirby gets along with other dogs and currently lives with a Chihuahua. He doesn’t care for other pups near his food so as long as he’s fed separately all is well. He lives with cats but much to their dismay finds entertainment by annoying them with a bark or chase. He is also great at traveling and doesn’t mind being picked up or held. According to his volunteer driver for event days, “He's just too good. I hope we find someone that knows he has 5-6 years of love in him. I find that senior dogs are really the best companions. I adopted one myself.” Hopefully, Kirby’s forever family will realize he’s got lots of spunk left in him and come meet this Love Bug soon!

Mikey ... Home at last!

2011-08-08T08:36:00.000-05:00

Last August Mike (now known as Mikey) was returned to Pet Haven. Poor Mikey was terrified of everything. He needed to be in a foster home that would be patient and willing to work with a scared, gentle soul .... Not long after he came in he lucked out and ended up in the home of experienced fosters Merry and Aaron who had 2 dogs of their own: Jack (a gorgeous german shepherd) and Geordie (a big black lab mix ... and yes, just as gorgeous!). Both Jack and Geordie were adopted from Pet Haven. Mikey not only had experienced fosters ... he had 2 canine foster brothers to play with and learn from, a loving human 'foster brother' to snuggle up with, and feline 'siblings' to visit in laundry baskets and other hiding places.

For a year, Mikey's fosters continued to bring Mikey to adoption events. This poor boy continued to be overlooked. Only a handful of applications came in for him. He was scared to death at adoption events and didn't 'show' well as he would drool nervously. It didn't matter though, his fosters continued to love him, work with him and treat him like one of their own and it was clear that Mikey was continuing to improve and gain confidence. Mikey was so fortunate that his fosters could see the gem he really was beneath the shaking, drooling, barking and other ways he would display his fear and terror.

Geordie (front), Mikey and Jack

About a month ago, Merry and Aaron lost their beautiful Jack to spleen cancer. Merry and Aaron were down to 2 dogs in their household ... Geordie and foster dog Mikey. Then this past Saturday, Mikey's wish came true .... he was officially adopted by his foster family. Little did he know that he has been home all along. The bright star of Jack shining from up above has given Mikey the greatest gift of all ... a forever place in the home and hearts of Merry and Aaron and their son "I". Thank you Merry, Aaron, and 'I' for all you have done for Mikey this past year ... and for all you have done for all the foster dogs. They currently are fostering Justice, another big black lab mix ... it appears Justice has a home visit scheduled for this week. Paws crossed for Justice!!

I asked Merry to share an update on Mikey for the blog ...

I would love to tell you about Mikey. He is a sweet, affectionate dog who loves to cuddle. When we sit on the floor with him, he leans his head against our chest and absorbs all the snuggles and pets he can get. When we're working at a desk or computer, he comes up and whips his head under an arm, asking for pets. He also wraps his head and neck around a forearm so we'll pet his chin and his chest. He is still an anxious guy, but his safe places are either the upstairs bathroom, downstairs bathroom, or his kennel. One way to Mikey's heart is with pastrami and if we have some kind of treatment we need to do, we feed him bits of pastrami while we do it and he's OK with the whole procedure. We have a calming music playlist for when he and Geordie need to be home alone in their kennels, and he has music we play at night when he sleeps in his kennel. We've offered to let him sleep in our room like the other dogs, but he prefers his kennel. Some things that other dogs do - like sit on the couch or bed with their family - is an act of bravery for Mikey. We're always so happy when he feels brave enough to join us in the kitchen when we're fixing dinner. He loves playing with balls and will bounce the balls and play with them by himself, but also loves to have us chase him and throw the balls for him. When Jack died, it usually would have taken a long time for us to decide to get another dog. But Mikey had already been part of our family and had nestled himself in our hearts. He and Geordie had a rough start together but they've developed a rhythm and understanding of one another and are friends now. From the outside, Mikey might seem like a difficult dog, but we've all figured out a rhythm that works for him and for us. He is such a sweet, brave spirit and we feel so honored and happy to have him be a permanant member of our family.

Thank you!

Merry

Snuggle time on the couch

Jack and Mikey pay the kitty a visit
in the laundry room

Photos from 8/6 Medium/Large Dog adoption event

2011-08-06T14:21:00.000-05:00

Justice ... she would make an
excellent READ therapy dog!

It was a busy day at the Richfield Petco for the medium/large dogs of Pet Haven!!! At the event today Smiley and Stuart Little made their adoption event debut!! Justice, Tug and Phoenix were also there to show the ropes for the newbies.

Stuart Little has a home visit scheduled next weekend ... he was busy showing off all the tricks that foster mom taught him, including "sit', "down". Good boy Stuart!! :) Then there was Smiley, who won the hearts of so many ... how often do you find a calm, mellow 9-10 mth old lab mix?? And then our angelic Justice .. She was busy giving lots of kisses, mentoring Stuart, napping in the middle of the floor and being read stories to - a great application came in for her and looks like a home visit is going to be scheduled!! Good luck to Justice and Stuart Little on their home visits this coming week! We'll keep you posted.

And our sweet Tug the beagle also had lots of interest. Stay tuned ... hopefully we'll be reporting a home visit for him too ... maybe even an adoption!! :) Then there's Phoenix!! His foster mom continues to do amazing work with this boy.

We also get to report two adoptions today ... Mikey the black lab mix who has been in foster care for a year now was officially adopted today!!! and J.D. the St. Bernard was also adopted. No photos of them today because they will have their own special posts to celebrate their adoptions in the not too distant future.

Smiley

Stuart Little

Tug

Phoenix

Dog Adoption Tomorrow (Saturday)

2011-08-05T08:35:00.000-05:00

Russell

Pet Haven adoptable dogs will be waiting and hoping to see you tomorrow (Saturday) at our dog adoption event from 11 AM - 1 PM.

Small dogs will be at ...

Wayzata Chuck & Don's
1147 Wayzata Blvd E
For directions, click here.

Medium/Large dogs will be at ....

Richfield Petco
710 West 66th Street
Richfield, MN
For directions click here.

If you plan to stop by the Richfield Petco to visit our medium/large dogs be sure to also say hi to our adoptable cats .... Pet Haven cats will also be there .... cats will be by the main entrance and the pups will be by grooming.

Check out our website, www.pethavenMN.org, for all of our adoptable dogs and cats.

Beau

Adopted Dog Update: Duchess

2011-08-03T06:51:00.000-05:00

L to R: Cosmo (in the back), Duchess and Bart

We love updates from our adopters and in this case we are very fortunate that by getting an update on one of our pups, Duchess, we are actually getting an update on two of our pups as her sibling, Bart, was also adopted from Pet Haven. Of course, they both love Cosmo who is hiding in the back of the photo :)

Here is an update on Duchess from his new mom:

"Duchess has been with us for about four months now and is doing very well. The biggest thing that has happened is well..she's BIG. She's grown four inches wider across her back (that's how much we've adjusted her harness) and gained 10 pounds of pure muscle. However, if Bart gets in the way she can still just walk under him to get where she wants. Also, we're pretty sure she's part kangaroo. Instead of running around the backyard, she hops off all four feet. Never seen anything like it. She can hop on her hind legs, and even hopped the fence into the neighbor's yard (5 feet) from a sitting position although thank goodness she's only done that once. We're thinking of loaning her out to the circus.

Duchess loves to play with her big brothers and since she's such a tank, she can pretty much hold her own. She loves to play with the pug who lives on one side of us, and the doberman who lives on the other side, Zander. She finished obedience school and was the star of the class, unlike her brother Bart who really didn't care if he did anything right (he just wants the treats). Bart tore his CCL this year, so he's been sidelined a bit but he watches Cosmo and Duchess play and seems to enjoy it. He's healing and should be back in good form soon.

Bart learned pretty early on not to mess with Duchess...he tried to steal her rawhide and she bit him in the butt, which offended him to no end. Other than that things have been going smoothly with the pack other than little adjustments here and there. And everywhere we walk, we get comments about how they all "match". "

Read more about Duchess when we posted about her shortly after she was adopted:

http://pethavendogs.blogspot.com/2011/05/red-lake-rosies-adopted-dog-monday.html

And if you'd like to read more about Bart (who was nicknamed, 'Bart the dumpster dog') check out the following blog:

http://pethavendogs.blogspot.com/2009/09/adopted-dog-update-bart-dumpster-dog.html

If you have adopted a dog from Pet Haven we would love to hear from you. Email us at editor@pethavenmn.org.

Justice makes her debut at the dog adoption event!

2011-08-01T10:04:00.002-05:00

Justice

We had a very busy day at the adoption event on Saturday at the Richfield Petco! Many thanks to everyone who came out to say hi to our adoptable pups.

Justice (on left) made her debut at the adoption event on Saturday. She is an approximately 3 year old black lab/rottie mix with lots of love to give. Justice is good with dogs, cats and kids .. she also enjoys swimming. Justice's foster dad says she paddles hard with her front paws resulting in LOTS of splashing ... so although her swimming technique may not be the best, she wants you to know that she LOVES life and she really doesn't care how crazy she looks like in the water :)

Justice is a gentle giant ... while at the adoption event on Saturday she quietly approached passerbys and let them rub her head and sat and posed for her photos to be taken ... if you're looking for a new addition to your family Justice wants you to know that you don't have to look any further ... to learn more about Justice check out her bio on petfinder.

For more photos from Saturday's adoption event ... and great photos of our other dogs (JD, Charlie, Beau, Toby, Phoenix, Deuce, Kirby, and Russell;) check out the Flickr Pet Haven site.

Charlie gets some lovin'

All Dog Adoption Event - Saturday, 7/30

2011-07-29T05:00:00.003-05:00

Toby

We will be having an all dog adoption event on Saturday, 7/30 at the Richfield Petco from 11 am - 1 pm:

710 West 66th Street
Richfield, MN
(66th and Lyndale)

Check out our website www.pethavenMN.org for a list of all of our adoptable dogs.

If you have specific questions about any of our adoptable dogs email us at dogs@pethavenMN.org.

Dogs who would love to give you some slobbery kisses on Saturday if you stop by are:

Deuce (boxer/shepherd mix), Beau (black and tan coonhound), Justice (lab/rottie mix), Phoenix (white german shepherd mix), Kirby (senior pomeranian), Russ (lhaso apso mix), Charlie (cavalier king charles spaniel mix) and Toby (papillon mix).

Consider also following us on facebook:

www.facebook.com/pethavenMN

Deuce

Charlie

Bear ... won't you take me home?

2011-07-28T05:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!. My name is Bear and i'm just 3 years old. Let me tell you a little about myself …. I came from a shelter in rural Iowa to find my forever home. I’m a very sweet boy and everybody says so too, I love walks, car rides and even baths. I’m good with kids and all other animals so far (well, maybe a tiger or lion would scare me! But I bet they would scare you too!) I’m working on house-training and I know the words 'go outside’. I can sit and even hop and twirl on my hind legs for treats!! I’m very lovable and playful and will give lots of kisses too. I like to run around with my favorite squeaky toys and try to play with my chihuahua foster sisters but they're older and don’t want to play with me much.

Won’t you please take me home with you?? I promise to be a faithful, loyal friend to you for all of my doggie years, and I have LOTS of them left since I’m only 3 years old!

You can check out my petfinder bio for more info or email dogs@pethavenMN.org!

Tug ... One Happy Beagle!!

2011-07-27T05:00:00.000-05:00

This boy Tug has a lot to be happy about! He’s eight years old and living life to the fullest. You wouldn’t know it by looking at him but this lovable pup isn’t your average Beagle. His foster Mom describes Tug as a, “Labrador Retriever in a Beagle suit.” He is crazy about playing fetch!

His other favorite activities include snuggling up with his people, mealtime, and taking naps in the sun. He also loves to do tricks but rolling over is his favorite; anything for a treat!

Tug is completely potty trained and can be left to watch the house while you’re gone. Just don’t expect him to stay awake the whole time. He also does his part to help the neighborhood watch by keeping an eye on other dogs from the window. He would be great for a home with someone around often or even retirees. As much as he loves his playtime outdoors, he is tuckered out afterwards!

Perfect for a family that wants a playful dog without that new puppy energy. He has done great being around many dogs since his foster Mom runs a boarding facility. He is ok with pets of the feline variety as long as they don’t run; otherwise he may bark at them.

Tug is quite the charmer and is well known for walking the runway in Pet Haven’s 2010 Fall Benefit with the Vikings Cheerleaders. They quickly fell in love with him just like everyone else he meets. After all, who wouldn’t love that smiling face? Help us get the word out about this great guy. Tug’s forever home will be a happy one for sure!

For more info on Tug the charmer check out his petfinder bio or email us at dogs@pethavenMN.org.

Stuart Little

2011-07-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

Stuart Little is a 3-4 mth old puppy who was found by a dump up at Red Lake reservation. He was unresponsive and curled up in a ball. After getting some TLC from Red Lake Rosie's Rescue he was then taken into Pet Haven's foster program in early July where he continued with lots of TLC. He is now living with two playful foster (canine) sisters and one feline sister. He's a bundle of energy (and love), but then again, aren't all puppies??? :) He is learning a lot from his foster family and if you're looking for an addition to your family, Stuart Little says you should look no further!! For more info on Stuart Little check out his petfinder bio or follow along on a blog that his foster mom has created for him at http://littlestuartlittle.blogspot.com/.

Stuart loves the dirt!

Stuart doing what he loves to do ... chew!! :)

For more info on Stuart Little email dogs@pethavenmn.org.

Meet Russell ... Mr. Personality!!

2011-07-22T05:00:00.000-05:00

Russell is 10 years young. He wants you to know that he still has many years left in him and he hopes that some very special person will consider opening up their heart and home to this handsome boy ... he has been in Pet Haven's foster program now for a little over two years. Please help us get the word out about Russell!

Mr. Personality loves his people! Russell is a Lhasa Apso/Dandi Dinmont Terrier Mix. He loves all people he meets and dogs too! He likes to spend his time outside or just hanging out with his people. Russell would be great for an older person or a family that isn’t looking for a pup with boundless energy. He’s content just laying next to his family on the porch and a scratch behind the ear. He is crazy for car rides and will wait quietly in the car for his foster Mom to come out of the store. Russell loves all people he meets and has had a lot of contact with other dogs.

Russell with foster mom Sandy!

He also fancies himself as a protector, according to his foster Mom Sandy: “Russell likes to "scout" the yard, making sure no unwanted dogs or cats are near. He would spend the whole day outside if he could. We have a couple of neighbors who have big dogs (Vizsla & a Golden). He loves to run (I say that with a smirk, he can't run for very long!) nonetheless he thinks he's running the fence with them, tail wagging all the way.”

He also enjoys walks but does like to come across as a tough guy to bigger dogs when they first meet. Russell may be a little guy but he doesn’t want to be treated like one! He isn’t thrilled with being picked up but would prefer to lay next to you instead. He knows a trick or two and is very proud when he completes them. This pup is completely crate trained and can be trusted on his own at home. His new forever family will be lucky to have this easy going guy!

If you would like more info on Russell email us at dogs@pethavenMN.org.

Phoenix - Resilient soul rises up from the ashes

2011-07-20T07:47:00.003-05:00

Yes, all of the dogs that come through Pet Haven's foster program are special ... all have their own story and all deserve to be loved and cherished by their own special family.

Phoenix is a boy who has touched the hearts of so many, including his foster Meagan. We/Pet Haven are fortunate to have such incredible fosters like Meagan who give up so much of their time and their heart and provide these innocent creatures the second chance they so deserved.

Here's an update from Phoenix's foster:

"Over the last four years I have fostered six dogs, and have had the opportunity to watch each of them grow and develop in their own special ways. Even with that said, when Phoenix first came into my family I was skeptical about how quickly he would turn around in our quest to help him become a "normal dog." He was skinny and had no coordination. He was terrified of everything new. He had endless energy and loved to use it up by exploring the world with his mouth. He liked to pick on the puggle of the house and didn't understand that his old, crabby Australian Shepherd brother's warning growls did NOT mean "play harder." He was absolutely incapable of entertaining himself, so he required constant attention. And he loved shoes; like to a crazy, abnormal extent.

As I sit here thinking about the transformation Phoenix has made, I am tempted to look up what "Phoenix" even means. According to the "Internet's Bible," Wikipedia, Phoenix is a greek character that is reborn from its own ashes. Wow. What a perfect name for this guy. Coming from a situation where he was looking death in the face, Phoenix certainly represents a reborn version of his previous self.

In the short two months since Phoenix arrived at my house I have truly seen a Cinderella story unfold before my eyes. The scrawny, wiry dog who picked on his Puggle foster brother is now a muscular (although still lanky), beautiful boy who knows the boundary between "forcing" someone to play and mutual play. He only takes a couple minutes to warm up to new women, and once he is comfortable with them he wants nothing more than to snuggle and be pet- and he knows just how to flash those warm chestnut brown eyes that are impossible to say no to! He can entertain himself for an hour or so before he remembers he needs his human(s), and although he is hesitant about new things and situations, he is also inquisitive: a great sign that he is making huge strides. Shoes are still a guilty pleasure of his, but at least now he knows that they are forbidden as a chew toy. Phoenix's "mouthy" tendencies will be the primary issue his forever family will have to correct, but we have already made progress in this area as well. Although he still likes to touch everything with his mouth, he is learning that this is not a desired behavior, so it has minimized greatly (and is almost non-existant on the days he receives the appropriate exercise for his energy level).

All in all, I want other people to know what a gem this handsome man is. Who would have known that an emaciated, scared, banged-up pup could transform into such a wonderful dog? I am honored to have been one of the many people over several organizations who have experienced this story firsthand, and I'm excited to see what new opportunities unfold for this boy."

Adoption Event Saturday, 7/16: Richfield Petco & Lake Calhoun Chuck & Don's

2011-07-16T07:17:00.000-05:00

Pet Haven dog adoptions today from 11 am to 1 pm .. be sure to stop on by:

Medium/Large dogs at Richfield Petco (66th and Lyndale)

Small Dogs at Lake Calhoun Chuck & Don's.

Our adoptable pups would love to say hi and to give you lots of kisses!!

Milo is adopted!

2011-07-12T08:37:00.000-05:00

Milo with his new
mom and dad!!

Milo was returned to Pet Haven at the end of April due to life changes of his previous owners. He is a 7 year old beagle who quickly charmed his way into the hearts of Pet Haven volunteers including Laura B who began fostering with Pet Haven in May. Milo was Laura's first foster dog with Pet Haven .... great job Laura on fostering Milo and for loving him until he was able to find a forever home of his own.

During the home visit, Pet Haven volunteer Agnes said:

"Everything went great. Couldn't be better!! His new mom and dad are Bob & Diane A. They are friends of Laura B's mom. When we got there, they already bought everything from food & water dish, toys, kennel, dog beds, and treats. In fact right before we left, they were going to take Milo and go back to the pet store to pick up more toys! Milo explored the house and knew right away where his water dish was. He played with the tennis ball and even hung out on the dog bed that Bob & Diane put in their bedroom. I think he's going to be pampered there :) "

Thank you Laura B for fostering Milo! And thank you Bob and Diane for providing Milo with a wonderful home. It looks like there are 2 humans and 1 canine with big grins in the photo above!!!

Pet Haven is always looking for fosters. If you would like to learn more about fostering please email volunteer@pethavenMN.org.

Candy

2011-07-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

This poor girl spent her first years in a hoarding situation. She was rescued by the Animal Humane Society and lived with 70 other dogs and came into Pet Haven's foster program as a part of the Minnesota Animal Welfare Partnership coalition (www.mnpaw.org). Her foster has been working to socialize Candy for the past 6 months and give Candy a taste of what life really should be. We are extremely grateful to Candy's foster for all of her patience. She has made such great progress and is now ready to move into a real home of her own.

Candy is 1 and a half years old and is good with other dogs. In fact, she would LOVE to have another canine sibling to play with or to simply hang out with! Candy is attending Pet Haven's small dog adoptions. For a list of our adoptions visit our website at www.pethavenMN.org. For more info on Candy check out her bio.

Charlie is Adopted!

2011-07-07T05:00:00.000-05:00

Charlie the yorkie was adopted last week to a couple who previously had a yorkie, Scruffy, who obviously lived quite the luxurious, pampered life. Although Charlie knows he can never replace Scruffy he certainly would like to give it a try!!

We got an update from Charlie's new family a few days after the adoption:

"Well, after only four days, Charlie has taken over the house. In true Yorkshire fashion, his confident, cocky little personality has captured our hearts. Yes, he has given us permission to stay in his new home!

Charlie exhibited many of the same traits and habits our former Scruffy Yorkshire had. He's assumed the very same corner of our bed, follows the lady of the house everywhere, growls and emits low barks at anyone remotely passing the house - very protective already. He is bringing new toys to our feet already and wants, no demands our attention every chance he gets.

He loves his walks, remembers his tricks and is very obedient. On the second day, he let us know he likes back rubs, shoulder massages and tummy scratches.

We've tricked him with his picky food temperment by keeping the same diet as he had but mixing in some Caesar soft food - very tasty Lamb and Turkey are now his favorites with his sweet potato kibbles.

Charlie sleeping on his new deck!

All I hear in the house now is my wife constantly talking to Charlie as if her little baby. Great stuff..... Of course as Charlie's new Alpha, I can't show that emotion - Ha!

I can't say enough about Sandy Thomson. Her love for Charlie as a foster mom keeps the love going. "Charlie loves to get love and he loves to give love."

Great job all around......

Thank you, thank you, Pet Haven.

Bruce and Sandy R."

Thank you Bruce and Sandy for providing Charlie with such a loving home!

Adopted Dog Update: Ahnung visits Red Lake Rosie's

2011-07-05T08:50:00.000-05:00

Ahnung staying cool under
Karen's truck

Ahnung (pronounced ah-NUNG and means star in ojibway) was originally rescued (in October 2008) by Karen Good of Red Lake Rosie's Rescue up in northern Minnesota in the Red Lake reservation. She had been abandoned with her litter of 8 puppies ... a pellet remains in one of her nipples from a gun shot wound, heart worm disease, lymes, coccidia and no front teeth (from grounding her teeth down to her gum in search of food). In November 2008 she came in Pet Haven's foster program and was treated for her heart worm. I had the honor of fostering Ahnung in December and we went back up that winter to visit Karen and help out around the shelter. In January, 2009 I adopted Ahnung. When I first met Ahnung in mid-October, she looked beaten and battered ... Karen looked at me and told me 'There is something very special about her." She was right. More than anything I believe that any dog or cat blessed enough to be in the loving, healing presence of Karen up at Red Lake Rosie's Rescue is forever changed ... Ahnung is just one of hundred of dogs and cats who carry Karen's amazing energy and spirit with them. Ahnung is now a therapy dog and has her own blog. She even has her own facebook fan page.

Over the holiday weekend Ahnung had the opportunity to visit Karen up at Red Lake Rosie's Rescue. She immediately jumped right back into being a rez dog and fitting in with the pack. I continue to be amazed at the work that Karen does up at Red Lake Rosie's. We transported Stuart Little and 2 cats (Sharmaine and Sunshine) back with us to come into Pet Haven's foster program.

Many thanks to all of you who continue to support the work of animal rescues and shelters.

Marilou Chanrasmi
Dog Division Co-Director

Ahnung in October 2008

Stuart Little - Pet Haven's
most recent intake from RLRR

And I made a video from the photos I took up at Red Lake Rosie's Rescue so you can catch a glimpse into the incredible work of Karen Good of Red Lake Rosie's:

Adoption Events Sat July 2nd!

2011-07-01T14:26:00.005-05:00

Start the holiday weekend off right with a visit to one of our adoptions events.

JD and his other medium/large dog pals will be watching for you:
Saturday July 2nd
Richfield Petco
66th & Lyndale Ave So
11-1pm

Kirby and his other small dog friends will be waiting to meet you:
Saturday July 2nd
Chuck & Don's Wayzata
1147 Wayzata Blvd. E
11-1pm

Gigi ... ready to give you all her love and attention!

2011-06-29T13:13:00.000-05:00

Gigi is a 10 year old pitbull who was returned to Pet Haven due to foreclosure. She is a real, and I mean real people lover. In fact, when a volunteer went to her foster's home to take photos of this gorgeous girl, it took a while because Gigi would not leave the side of the volunteer (aka a 'velcro dog') making it somewhat challenging to take her photos at such close range! How can one not love such a sweet girl whose only wish in life is to make her human happy?? :)

Gigi is currently being fostered in a home with 3 adults who say that she is a couch potato and loves to watch movies. If they can coerce her off the couch they say she also loves to go on walks. She would love to be an only dog so that she doesn't have to share your love and attention with any other canine.

For more pictures of Gigi click here. And to check out her bio click here.

Thanks to our volunteers!

2011-06-27T20:12:00.000-05:00

JD is a 2 year old St. Bernard who came on both Saturday and Sunday. He and his foster mom were quite busy as JD LOVES all the attention even the heat didn't stop this boy from making sure he was at the front of the tent getting lots of hugs and kisses ... and in return he drooled and drooled and drooled, as any St. Bernard would :) This 130 lb dog was a huge hit ... there's something about that adorable St. Bernard face and all that drool that passerbys simply cannot resist.

In addition to JD we had appearances by other adoptable dogs: Kirby, Uncle Buck, Tug, Bear, Milo, Boomer, Kirby ... and Pet Haven ambassadors Buckley and Ahnung.

If you are interested in learning more about any of these dogs please visit our website at www.pethavenMN.org and click on the 'Dog and Cat Adoption' tab on the left.

Kirby

Adoptable Dogs at Pride Fest this weekend!

2011-06-23T20:38:00.000-05:00

Bear

Pet Haven will be at the Pet Center at Pride Festival this coming weekend, Saturday (6/25) and Sunday (6/26) from 10 am - 6 pm. Pet Haven volunteers will be there to answer any questions and throughout both days we will have some adoptable dogs as well as some Pet Haven ambassadors/alums who would love for you to come by so they can give you some kisses!!

For more information visit the Twin Cities Pride Festival website at www.tcpride.org.

The festival is from 10 am - 6 pm on Saturday and Sunday and will be at the Minneapolis Loring Park. Loring Park is located on the southwest portion of downtown Minneapolis along interstate 94 and Hennepin Avenue. The address of the park is 1382 Willow Street, Minneapolis, MN.

Weather forecast is looking great for the weekend! We hope to see you there ...

J.D.

Uncle Buck

Adoptable Dogs at St. Louis Park Parktacular - Saturday, 6/18

2011-06-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

Boomer and Blue

This coming Saturday, 6/18, Pet Haven will be at the St. Louis Park Parktacular celebration from 2 - 6 PM. Volunteers will be around to answer any questions you may have about Pet Haven.

The following adoptable dogs will be there to win your heart over:

2 - 4 PM:
Russell - 9 year old Lhaso apso mix.
Cuddly Charlie - 6 yr old yorkshire terrier mix.
Phoenix - 1 year old White German shepherd mix. Check out his recent blog post for more info.

4 - 6 PM:
Boomer - 7 mth old black lab mix.
Blue - 7 mth old black lab mix.
GiGi - 4 yr old rat terrier/chihuahua mix.

Gigi

We hope you'll stop on by to say hi to Pet Haven volunteers and our adoptable dogs on Saturday, June 18th between 2 pm and 6 pm.

Location: Wolfe Park, next to the St. Louis Park Aquatic Park, 3700 Monterey Drive.

Phoenix - Resilient soul rises up from the ashes

2011-06-14T08:29:00.000-05:00

Phoenix arrived into Pet Haven's foster program on April 2nd ... the video below documents his arrival into our program. A heart wrenching story of a dog who has been through so much suffering and touched the hearts of so many of us where rescues came together to give this boy another chance.

His foster shared the following on Phoenix:

Phoenix is one of those souls you run across very seldom in life. He has the spirit of a cheerleader, the vulnerability of an infant, and the courage of a soldier. You see, he experienced a rough situation early in his life, through no fault of his own. Although he is leery of new people as a result of these conditions, he doesn’t hold one person’s actions against us all.

Phoenix has come a long way in the few months he has been in rescue, and his improvements continue with each day. He wakes up each morning ready to play, whether it be tug of war with his stuffed animal or wrestling with one of his canine foster brothers. He has learned how to sit, lay down, come and stay; he is currently working on learning self-control by holding his “stay” for longer and longer periods of time…he is up to 30 seconds! He is kennel trained and potty trained, and doesn’t seem to have any major separation anxiety issues. He doesn’t seem to be a “flight risk” as he stays fairly close to his owner(s) and his behavior is wonderful at the dog park.

Like most Huskies, Phoenix does have an independent and stubborn streak in him. This, coupled with the strong prey drive and herding instincts he gets from the German Shepherd mixed into his DNA, makes living with small dogs a less than ideal situation for Phoenix. One of his foster brothers is a Pug/Rat Terrier mix and Phoenix does tend to pick on him; however, he plays nicely with his larger Australian Shepherd foster brother.

As soon as 10:00pm rolls around, Phoenix is all cuddles. If his behavior for the evening has been good, he is allowed to sleep on the human bed, and he LOVES it! He gets to stretch out and lay his head on a pillow, finally letting his guard down to relax and snuggle. It is in these moments that one can see how truly sweet this overgrown puppy is.

One last note about Phoenix: he has an amazing ability to belch like a human. On some of his best “pushes” you can hear him from another room in the house. As a result, Kate and William probably will not be bringing him into the royal family…but that means he’s available for you!

Phoenix is up for adoption. For more info check out Phoenix's bio.

If you are interested in learning more about fostering/volunteering with Pet Haven email volunteer@pethavenmn.org.

Spay Neuter Resources for pet owners with limited incomes

2011-06-10T08:56:00.000-05:00

Rescues, animal control facilities, and shelters across the country tirelessly work to save as many animals through adoption programs. The reality is ... we simply can't adopt our way out of the overpopulation problem. Millions of healthy adoptable dogs and cats across the country are euthanized each year.

Help us get the word out about the importance of spaying and neutering your pet. For many, limited income is what prevents them from spaying/neutering their beloved pet. Just recently a new resource has become available to the Minnesota community through the support of the Animal Humane Society ... Kindest Cut:

Kindest Cut provides low cost, high quality spay neuter surgeries for cats, dogs and rabbits through a traveling mobile surgical unit. Services are geared to pet owners with limited incomes in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area on an appointment basis and are performed by licensed veterinarians who are skilled at small animal care.

Spaying and neutering your pet is one of the kindest things you can do for him or her and for all animals. When you fix your pet you’ll help with pet overpopulation by ending the cycle of unwanted litters. Such a simple surgery can help reduce animal homelessness and save lives.

To learn more visit the Kindest Cut website: www.kindestcutmn.org.

Another resource available to pet owners on limited incomes is Minnesota Spay Neuter Assistance Program (MNSNAP ... www.mnsnap.org). The following video is a great video that will introduce you to the work of MNSNAP.

To learn more about Pet Haven's Spay Neuter Initiative click here.

Adoptable Dog: Milo

2011-06-08T08:35:00.002-05:00

Milo is a 7 year old beagle/basset hound mix who is super, super sweet. He would make a great addition to your family ... he is good with kids, dogs and cats! And to top it off he will love you and will show it by the way he looks at you (check out the photo below as he looks with loving eyes at his foster at a recent adoption event).

His foster shared the following update. Milo came back to Pet Haven at the end of April but was recently moved to a new foster home. His new foster adores him and shared the following:

"I've had Milo for 2 full weeks now and I am continually learning more and more about him. He's such a "go with the flow" kind of guy. No matter what we do, he just makes himself fit right in. His favorite things to do include car rides, dog park visits, going to the lake for a long walks and just hanging out in the back yard. I'm amazed by how well he will just adapt to whatever is going on.

I learned this past weekend that he enjoys playing with a tennis ball. I'll throw it for him and he'll go get it and bring it back (sort of). He loves to go to an open area and just run around... sometimes with his nose to the ground (he is a hound after all).

I look forward to getting to know Milo even better... he truly is a great dog."

For more info check out his bio.

Milo (left) with his foster sibling Milton.

Adopted Dog Monday

2011-06-06T14:28:00.008-05:00

This is one of the best adoption reports ever! Sampson the 13 year old chocolate lab has found his forever family.

His new mom is thrilled to have a constant companion. Sampson gets along with the cats too.

Sampson has a vet in his new family so his every medical need will be met. His mom is dedicated to adopting the older harder dogs to place. She just lost another Pet Haven alum Cindy/Lulu.

He may be an older guy but Sampson still enjoys a game of fetch the stick.

Thanks to Lena who faithfully fostered this sweet boy for over a year. Lena reports are all good. Sampson is finally home!

Saturday Adoption Events

2011-06-03T21:48:00.006-05:00

Come meet Tug, the beagle, and all his large dog friends at the Minnetonka Petco Saturday June 4th from 11-1pm.

Charlie, the Yorkie, will be greeting his fans along with the other small dog rock stars at the Chuck & Don's Wayzata Saturday June 4th from 11-1pm.

Reflections from Mike's foster buddy

2011-05-27T09:14:00.000-05:00

Mike, aka "Mikey" (for more info check out his bio) has been in Pet Haven's foster program since August, 2010. When he first came into our program he was assigned a foster buddy, Rachel, as we didn't have a foster home for him and he was being temporarily fostered at one of Pet Haven's dog boarding partners. Rachel continues to visit Mike at adoption events and shared the following reflections on her experience as a foster buddy with Mikey.

I first heard of Pet Haven when I was working in a partnering boarding kennel. That is where I met and fell in love with my own Pet Haven dog, Tori, and adopted her. When I began volunteering with Pet Haven I thought of the dogs that had been boarded in the kennel for weeks at a time waiting for foster homes or potential adopters to fall in love with them at their adoption events. I decided to become a foster buddy and stop in to walk and spend time with the dogs that were waiting for a new life. My first foster buddy was Mike. I hadn’t been told much about him, except that he had been returned to Pet Haven after living with the family for several years. That made me sad, but what broke my heart was that later I found out that his previous owners had used a shock collar on him. Having just studied a unit on canine behavior, I learned how destructive harsh methods of punishment can be on a dog without being incredibly consistent and clear about what is required. Shock collars should only be used in extreme cases where multiple other techniques have been tried and behavior specialists have been consulted. Anyone who is thinking of trying a shock collar on their dog for a behavior issue should think of Mike’s story before they potentially cause harm.

Mike was holding it together when I met him. He is a beautiful black lab mix, long legs and a white star on his chest. His head was down and he was fearful of his surroundings. He forgot himself for a minute with a tennis ball in his room and he started to warm up to me. I took him on some walks and it alarmed me how strong he would pull, as if he didn’t know what he wanted, but it was certainly not to be sitting in a kennel all day! Soon an adoption event came up and a handler was needed. I said I would be glad to. We were both pretty excited for the field trip… He was happy to be in the car, happy to see a familiar face; I was grateful for the kisses and the trust he showed in me.
When we got to the Richfield PetCo I could tell it wasn’t going to be easy. He was terrified. He hated the floor and was scrabbling to get away, pulling the collar so tight I was worried he couldn’t breathe. I finally got him over to the other dogs and sat down. The look in his eyes was sad disbelief that I was making him stay there. We took many potty breaks outside, but it was a long two hours. Adoption events are hard on the dogs. They don’t understand what is going on; so many people walking by and petting them, strange dogs walking by, rodents in cages; some dogs want to leave, some want to cower and shake, and some want to bark. We made it through, and we were both glad to get back in the car. Soon Mike got a foster! I was overjoyed. I looked forward to seeing him at the next event. When I did I was disappointed. He was so stressed that he couldn’t really focus on me and we didn’t have the reunion I‘d been hoping for. I brought treats and just sat with him, giving him a little doggy massage and telling him how much I missed him. I met his foster dad, Aaron, and was able to ask how Mike did in the home. Turns out he has a lot of fear issues. He is scared of storms and likes to be in the upstairs bathroom the majority of the time because it is the only place he feels safe. He loves to run, though, and enjoyed being outside with his foster brother. One of the reasons that I love Pet Haven is that they called in a professional who determined Mike has an inability to relax and was thoughtful in exploring different ways to help him feel at ease. How can any being experience happiness when they are in a state of constant anxiety? I thought of Tori and how I know she is happiest when she lays on her side and gives that big, deep sigh… all is right in her world. I’m betting Mike used to lie on his side and sigh… but he doesn’t anymore. I hope he will again.

Mike continues to improve. Now when I stop at the events he DOES remember me, and his happiness brightens my entire day. He is a special boy, but he is a dog that needs more than just food and a place to sleep. He needs someone to understand him and have patience. That is what I worry about the most. He has become comfortable with his foster and it will take a while for him to adjust to a new situation. I know he can do it. I know he is worth it. I am just (impatiently) waiting for the right person.

Thanks Rachel for sharing your experience as a foster buddy with Mikey. If you are interested in getting involved with Pet Haven and helping us be a voice for homeless dogs and cats, email us at volunteer@pethavenmn.org.

Mario - sunshine stroll thanks to Lulu & Luigi!

2011-05-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

Mario was adopted as a puppy from Pet Haven and lived a happy life for 12 years. Then, his life was turned upside down when his human mom passed away and Mario went to live with a family member. When the family member lost their home, Mario was once again uprooted and moved to a friend’s home as a foster. Unfortunately, that situation was not a good one for Mario and Pet Haven stepped in to provide him a new foster home and prepare him for a new family. Sadly, during this transition, it was discovered that Mario has a liver tumor and severe arthritis. These conditions prevent him from being a candidate for adoption.

Since just before Thanksgiving of last year, Mario has been considered in “hospice care” with his Pet Haven foster family. While his physical limitations keep him from getting around too well, he is in great spirits and does as much as his body will allow. Some days are better than others for Mario. He is no longer able to stand if he is lying on a hard surface, or go up steps. He is trying to learn not to shake his body because his legs won’t support his weight and he falls down. But he never whimpers and he never cries. And the greatest gift of all, Liz from Lulu and Luigi’s has provided a stroller, and he is now able to go on walks with his foster human and canine family. He looks so happy when he is in that stroller, enjoying the fresh air and seeing the world.

Mario is another example of “once a Pet Haven dog, always a Pet Haven dog.” Mario will spend the rest of his days as part of his new family, provided with the love and comfort he deserves.

To read more about Mario check out an earlier blog posting.

Thank you Sharon and Barb for fostering Mario, and for providing him with such a loving home to spend the rest of his days. And thank you Lulu & Luigi for providing a doggie stroller so that Mario can go out on walks with his foster family and his 2 foster siblings!

Adopted Dog Monday: Lucky!

2011-05-23T13:52:00.003-05:00

Lucky the 2-year old Yorkie/Maltese mix found his way to Pet Haven earlier this spring. Based on his story, I wouldn't say that Lucky was always quite so lucky himself. He was found as a stray, not neutered and in pretty rough shape. A long-time Pet Haven volunteer and foster agreed to take him in and get him ready for adoption.

Lucky found his forever home in pretty short order. He's now living in a lovely home with a doggy brother and a couple of kitty siblings. He's fitting in perfectly and enjoying the good life! Way to go Lucky!

Adoption Event Saturday, 5/21: Richfield Petco & Lake Calhoun Chuck & Don's

2011-05-20T17:53:00.000-05:00

Small Dog Adoption

Chuck & Don’s Calhoun

3246 West Lake Street

11am-1pm

Medium/Large Dogs:
Richfield Petco
66th and Lyndale (710 West 66th Street)
Richfield, MN
11 am - 1 PM

Adopted Dog Monday

2011-05-16T11:50:00.003-05:00

This is a photo of Creek when he came into Red Lake Rosie's Rescue last fall. He had a big shoulder wound that had to be stitched up. Karen took good care of him until Pet Haven could transport him to the cities. Creek had many trials and tribulations here but finally found the perfect forever home. Here he is now and what his family had to say:

"Creek is doing fabulous. We are slowly but surely letting the cats & Creek sniff each other and get treats when they don't growl. It is pretty cute. Sometimes they approach each other when the other one isn't really paying attention, sometimes there is a little growl sometimes not. The sometimes not is really exciting!!! The birds are still in Jared's room. I think that one just might be too hard right now. Small steps, he is of course a bird dog. Wow when he hears them he has target fixation!! We are getting a pretty good routine going. It seems like he is really feeling like part of the family. Sometimes he would rather just get his food from the toy then his dish. Way more fun. He really likes car & truck rides. We have taken him to the park, he is doing pretty good by other dogs too. I think he is happy, I know we are! Thank you again for bringing Creek into our lives. He is very lovey & fits right in!!"

10th Annual Minnesota Shelters Conference - Saving More Lives

2011-05-15T10:05:00.000-05:00

10th Annual MN Shelters Conference -

Saving More Lives

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Best Western Kelly Inn, St. Cloud

$50 registration cost covers all materials, breaks, and lunch. Deadline to register is May 19, 2011. Each person attending needs to complete a separate form. Registration fee is non-refundable after May 19th. Questions? Contact Vicki Davis, conference coordinator, at tchs@cloudnet.com or phone 320-252-1325.

Click on link to download brochure.

SCHEDULE

8:00 - 8:45 Registration

8:45 Opening comments

9:00 - 10:30 Essentials of Fundraising in an Economic Crunch

Beth M. Krueger, Consultant, Custom Strategies, Austin, Texas

The last 18 months have been financially challenging for animal organizations and you may have had to make some budget cuts while trying to maintain basic resources. But did you know that even in an economic crunch, there are people out there still giving – some even more than normal? You just need to know how to find them. Come learn the secrets to keeping the money flowing while bringing in new supporters to your organization. It's easier than you may think.

10:30 - 10:45 Break

10:45 - 12:15 Capacity Building: Good Foster Programs

Lou Guyton, Senior Director, ASPCA®® Community Initiatives,

Hear about one shelter with a teeny space on how they save thousands of animal lives through foster home development! We’ll also share some other programs that are working in other communities and facilitate a discussion to help you go home and start planning for the capacity to Save More Lives!

12:15 Lunch

1:00 - 2:30 It's Raining Cats: How to Promote and Increase Cat and Kitten Adoptions

Sharon Harvey, Cleveland Animal Protective League

Do you feel like you need to strap on a helmet just to face the day? Are you so overwhelmed you don’t even know how and where to start? Fear not! This engaging session will rekindle your creative thinking and provide some “think outside the box” strategies that will seize the attention of potential adopters and help you to save more cats. You’ll learn how to create the “buzz” about your cat adoption program, the importance of data in presenting and supporting your need to get creative, how to prepare your staff, volunteers, and others in your community for your new adoption adventures, and how to market and position your fabulous felines themselves!

2:30 Break

2:45 - 4:00 Helping At-Risk Pets Before Admission

Jodi Lytle Buckman, Senior Director, Community Initiatives for the ASPCA

How can we help pets in our community? Too often, our answer to this question defaults to “admission for re-homing.” Who better to shelter and protect that animal than us, right? In many situations, admission may be the perfect next step. But for those animals already in a home where they are loved, or where the caregiver is willing to help find that next fabulous home for a stray – why not keep that pet at home or let that wonderful family who took in a stray help your agency do great work? We’ll spend this session exploring ways other agencies are helping keep pets in their homes, reduce animal admissions and save more lives. Let’s save them BEFORE they require admission!

4:00 - 4:45 The Campaign for Zero: How Duluth saved 93% of homeless pets in 2010 and ended euthanasia of healthy pets.

Linda Baumgarth, Animal Allies.

This workshop explores six key strategies: targeted, high-volume, high-quality, low-cost spay-neuter; high-volume adoption practices; progressive intake management; partnership between high-euthanasia shelter and high-volume adoption center; bold public goal-setting that inspires community support; win-win partnerships. These strategies were utilized in Duluth to successfully open a $3.5 million high-volume adoption center, operate a first-in-the-state spay/neuter clinic serving all of northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin, nearly triple annual adoptions, reduce shelter euthanasia by 64%, eliminate euthanasia of healthy animals, add more than $1 million to their endowment, quadruple the operating budget, and negotiate an agreement to join forces with the City of Superior, Wisconsin and two Superior shelters to build and operate a $2 million new shelter for that community.

Red Lake Rosie's Adopted Dog Monday

2011-05-09T14:06:00.009-05:00

Duchess is a terrier mix from Red Lake. She was adopted by a former adopter of another Red Lake Rosie's Rescue dog, Bart the Dumpster dog. He has his own blog and has featured his "bratty" new sister a couple of times. Here is a link to one of his posts about Duchess.

Here is what mom has to say:
"Duchess is doing well...she's a leaper. From a sitting position she leaped over our 5 foot fence to meet the neighbor's doberman yesterday. So that's some new information it was like a kangaroo, unbelievable.

You were right she really is the perfect dog...totally housebroken (except for one introductory poop) energetic but not nervous, loves all people, dogs and kids and not mouthy at all, takes treats nicely, etc. She's so ready made for a family that's looking for a dog to love and to be the center of attention." Can you find the Duchess girl in the photo? Looks like she blends right in.

Apple is a gorgeous aussie mix from Red Lake Rosie's Rescue. She was with her fosters for only a couple of weeks when the family decided she was already home and adopted her.

Here is what her mom has to say:
"Allie (formerly Apple) is doing just great! She did just fine while we were on vacation - actually I hear she had so much fun playing with all the dogs at daycare, and Allie and Sadie each slept with a family member. Now Allie is sleeping with Amy in her bed - Sadie snores so Amy doesn't allow her in bed with her!

I took Allie to an off-leash dog park, and she just loved it. She never wandered too far from me, but when she did it wasn't for long. What a great dog! At home she is always by my side, and comes when we call her if she's outside. We are all enjoying her so much!"

-

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T12:56:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the foster moms out there. So many homeless dogs are waiting for a second chance just like Tug. If you are considering opening your home and heart to a dog that needs help please let Pet Haven know. dogs@pethavenmn.org

Mntka Petco and Chuck & Don's Wayzata May 7th Adoption Events

2011-05-06T10:38:00.003-05:00

Blue and Boomer will be charming their way into your hearts.
Sat. May 7th
Med/Lg Dog Adoption
PetCo Minnetonka
13691 Ridgedale Dr.
11am-1pm

Charlie is waiting to spend days at the lake with his new family.
Saturday May 7th
Small Dog Adoption
Chuck & Don’s Wayzata
1147 Wayzata Blvd. E
Wayzata, MN
11-1pm

University of St. Thomas students raise almost $2000 for homeless animals!

2011-05-04T05:00:00.004-05:00

A team of University of St. Thomas students came together to raise money for homeless dogs and cats. The effort was led by Cody Luebeck, Resident Advisor for Brady Hall 6th floor at the University of St. Thomas.

Cody shares the following:

"I brought the idea of raising money for a charity up back in December. I brought it to the men of my leadership team, and asked them if they would be interested. They said they would be, and I presented the idea of raising money for an animal shelter. I chose this for a couple reasons: 1. I am a huge animal lover, as well as my team, and helping homeless animals is a way to help other animals have a life they deserve, and 2. Everyone supports human charities (women shelters, orphanages, cancer places) and animal shelters are often forgotten.

The team is a group of guys that volunteered at the beginning of the school year to help me plan events. We have done a blacklight dance, an Elementary/Middle school volunteer day (we played with the kids and helped tutor) as well as other social events throughout the year.

The during the program, we handed out over 200 coffee mugs stuffed with hot cocoa and an information sheet. We would collect names and a meal would be subtracted from the students' meal plan. During the actual event, my guys worked to get every single person who walked into the cafe to sign up. The lunch lady who swipes the cards even helped us out, sending back anyone who didn't initially sign up by asking them "don't you want to help those cute puppies and kitties?" Coming from a cute little grandma, nobody could refuse. I also arranged to have Tommie, our school mascot, make an appearance to help our efforts, and having him there was a great addition. "

Cody came to one of our Pet Haven adoption events to present the check. As a result of their hard work, enthusiasm and creativity these awesome students raised $1,785 for homeless dogs and cats!!!

Dog stars are Tug (the beagle) and Jake (spaniel/hound mix).
Both are up for adoption!

Adopted Dog Monday: Millie

2011-05-02T20:45:00.006-05:00

Millie is a shy young Poodle girl who was rescued from yet another terrible hoarding situation. She was a petite little thing and very much a puppy when she came to Pet Haven. Her foster, Sandy, fell in love with her instantly and knew that Millie was only going to go to the most special of homes....Millie needed a family that would be extra patient with her while she lived out that young puppy stage (potty training, teething, obedience, etc) and also while she learned how to be a family pet. Millie likely got very little attention before coming to Pet Haven and needed to learn how to be loved and cared for.

Sandy was right -after a few short months, the perfect family came along for Millie. It was love at first sight!

Here's an update from Millie's new family:

"Mille has fit into our little family very well and we all love her so much. I try and get her out for a walk everyday and though it was hard to just get around the block with her, we are now able to walk over a mile together. She gets braver and braver every time we go out...

When I pick my daughter up from school, Millie's fan club comes and gather around Millie wanting to pet her; this freaks her out a little but she is doing so much better and as long as mom is wiht her she knows she is all right.

During the day, Millie likes to follow me around the house as I do my daily chores and when she gets bored, she plops herself on our bed by the window and looks out to make sure there are not rabbits, birds, or squirrels upsetting our yard. She also likes to think she is protecting us from the two huge black labs across the alley and growls at them showing them who is boss.

She loves to be outside and though it hasn't been easy her these past few days with all the rain and wind, she loves to be out looking around.

We are very careful to keep an eye on her and bring her everywhere; we worry sometimes that someone might take her she is so cute and such a GOOD dog."