A no-kill Shelter dedicated to loving and nurturing the animals in our care until they find new homes - no matter how long it takes.

OSAS 
by: Renee Robins

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email your comments to:
owensoundanimalshelter@inmail24.com

Success Story:
- They made it... read Renee's blog;
- Read Todd's Interview;
- Little dog pulled
from icy water;

We depend on donations from private funding to support our Spay, Neuter and Medical Fund.

Keep up-to-date  with our schedule.

Trixie
Everyone cross your fingers, send best wishes, and send your prayers. 

This morning there was a message on our machine, from Trixies new people ... seems perhaps she has some separation issues ... no idea if this is new, or old thanks to the "no history" we don't have on her (see why that angers me). She kept those nice folks up all night. Apparently, she is in every way perfect, no trouble, well behaved ... but when the house went to bed, and they left her in the kitchen ... well she barked and barked and barked. They didn't sleep, and when they spoke with me they sounded exhausted. 

They have agreed to give it one more night, I sure hope my methods can work that fast! (I would have said a week maybe). I tried to explain it as her missing her people, and just wants her new family around. 

Here's hoping sleep for them tonight, and a forever home in Trixie's future.

Harrison Park
Two weeks ago, a women came to the Shelter with her beloved pet to ask for help in finding her dog a home. At the same time, another women who I had been chatting with via email arrived to potentially adopt a dog. The second women left with the dog. We took no part in this transaction. The following day, this dog was dumped at Harrison Park, nearly killed in the traffic, and ended up back with me. Then she sat in a cage, with only her name (thanks to her tattoo, we got that much) - but, no history, no familiar words and difficulties in adopting her without any knowledge of her. That dog was Trixie. 

Today a kind couple asked about her, trusted my evaluations, and took this poor girl home. This gentle and loving dog was abandoned twice, once by the women who dumped her like trash in the Park, and then by the owner when we tried to contact her. I know you read my blogs -  shame on both of you. 

Thank God Trixie had angels looking after her and has found herself a loving home where she will never be tossed out again.

Dale, Kashmere and Vincent
A great day, not filled with great adoptions, but good catch-up-time and great updates. 

Today, I spoke with the mother of Kashmere, who spends her days playing with her sister Nella, a tiny black dog, and enjoys sleeping, chasing her toys and lying in the sun. Kashmere spends her nights relaxing with the family, and curled up at the foot of the bed. Kashmere, a royal name, meant for a princess, who was known to me as Ticky. We chatted for quite sometime about the life this princess now lives, and about how her life nearly ended so many times. This old girl acts half her age and is enjoying every moment she has in life; as she should. 

A second update came from my pal Dale, who to me will always be Kisco. Who no longer stays under the couch, but instead plays with his sister Isis, who I also knew once so well. He is allowing his family to pet him, be near him and his anxieties are slowly fading. 

He is learning to trust, and plays and plays and plays. Finally, he gets his chance at kittenhood! A kittenhood he almost nearly lost, along with his life. 

Then, to make my life complete, an email from my friend Vincent, also beginning to find himself at home with his new family. 

A terrific day, regardless of the lack of adoptions; the updates are sometimes just as fun.

Ready to Go?
Likely you have noticed that there are only a few cats listed on the site. Perhaps you're excited and celebrating with me to see that they are all gone. I am very thrilled with the recent bunch of adoptions, BUT, they are definitely not all gone. 

There are still a handful, waiting for their turn to be placed. Seven in fact; totally ready to go - except for one BIG problem, these were indoor/outdoor cats and/or came in as "strays" ("I found this cat") and are female. Well, with Spring is in the air, they must wait with me a few extra weeks to see if any are pregnant. 

Here's hoping they aren't or I sure will have my hands full; sometime real soon. In order to avoid that cranky call-back ... hey I adopted one not seven phone call - I must wait. Others here are waiting through their quarantine - as policy dictates. 

Keep watching for those updates soon, as new faces are ready to go!

Blogs
Sometimes I think I do this blog for nothing more than stress relief, it's good to vent, but today I was reminded it is not all for nothing. 

An elderly gentleman, a regular blog reader, saw that we needed towels and stopped in with some. He was also a site watcher and liked Vincent. He agreed to take Vincent out for a walk and spent some time with him. He decided his farm would be perfect for him - a great match!

Another blog reader had been searching our site for the perfect match, saw Sasha and it was love at first sight.

Oddly, our next adoption happened by chance. I will take those too, as the women looking for a furniture store, found herself here, and fell in love with Harley ... A fabulous adoption day followed with more viewers - Robin and Rowan who brought in canned food. We appreciate it. AND, I love that you met Squirt and took her home too ~

Thanks to everyone, and I will continue to write these blogs, for you and me. 

Kisco
I knew from the moment I mentioned him, that this was the perfect home for him. My boy Kisco, who's first breath back on this earth was mine, who will be a part of me forever, has been adopted and went to a great home.

Ironically, I call it fate, Kisco's new mom is friends with Will's new mom. They can hang out! If only they could talk; the stories they could share!

I remember a few weeks ago reading the most touching tale in the Sun Times, of the love of a cat named Yoda who had died. I remember thinking at that time, how any cat would be blessed to live in that home. Yoda's owner had already adopted a kitten from us a short while ago (Isis on the happy tails) and this is where Kisco will be too. 

I hear she is calling him Dale, after the race car driver ... how appropriate! I shed a few tears as he drove away, tears of happiness and of course concern, with still a few miles to go. I am certain though she will give it the best shot, and that is what he needed. Kisco loves chances.

Rainstorm
I knew it was raining this morning before I even opened my eyes. Yes, my dog who hates storms was trying to tell me, but I already knew. You see, the pager had gone off twice between 4 am and again around 7 am; both times with missing dogs. By noon I had six more calls and not all dogs - two were for cats. 

Spring is here, the bad weather and the spring season makes them travel. Please be sure your pet is wearing ID. It was raining this morning, and it rained cats and dogs all afternoon. 

We had an arrival of a kitten, a mother cat, and then her four kittens. Thankfully, adoptions gave us the space to take them in. I discovered we have at least three expecting cats - one of which will likely deliver any day. 

The dogs did not come pouring in, so where are those missing ones? We did gain one new addition, though. When we went to pick up our kitty's from the vet, we had that question "do you have room for a dog"?, followed by "it is his last day"! So, with our cats traveled a long legged Jack Russell. Watch for him next week.

Pet Carriers
At 8:30 am, this morning, Todd was preparing to leave with two lucky ladies and one lucky fella, who were to go under the knife. We focus on those happy thoughts for them, and not so much the knife part (shhh we don't tell'em). So, anyway, he was doing the mad dash thing, when he ran into a problem. This problem really made him crabby for the rest of the day, and almost ruined it for these three cats. 

Seems that, although we own over 19 carrying cages, when he went to retrieve three of them, he only found two. Yup, two cages for three cats. Should he put the girls together, they were already friends ... he couldn't put the boy in with either of them because they had not met yet ... could he let one wander free in the car? None of these thoughts were safe. So, he managed to use a cat condo (a cardboard carrier we have for sale), which likely will get him only one way. 

Here is the thing, if you have adopted from us, either a small dog, cat or rodent and were given the generous use of a carrier, with the terms to return ASAP ... that time is now up. The loan was to get your new friend home. You were asked to return it, remember me saying "if we are not here, please leave it at the back door"? Thank goodness there was no emergency while Todd was traveling. What would I do, put a cat in my coat? 

When you do not return these cages it means they are not there for me to use, and I need them every day. 

Please bring them in ASAP ... we need them desperately and cannot afford to replace them.

Kittens
While reading one of the papers I turned up in the paper pile (OK so we sometimes read them before the cats do), I discovered that other animal controls, shelters and SPCA's have been having the same seasonal problems. 

The article with a gorgeous, but obviously older cat behind bars caught my attention and I had to read it. Here is the article written at the beginning of March from the Toronto Star:

I was saddened to see that the climate changes were causing kitten troubles everywhere. Oshawa, for example, is at double the capacity and Toronto with 425 - wow! 

Tonight is officially the first day of spring. For us, it was January and February when the kitten calls started pouring in. Our typical slow time, as I am sure it is for them, when we all catch up and place the older cats after the kittens leave. 

I was relieved that we are no where near those numbers and luckily three more will be altered tomorrow and mean three less feeling spring fever!

Barkly 
We are on a roll with goodness! 

On Sunday evening I made a trip to the Shelter to meet a friend who would help me make a difference for Barkley (which was his name for about 15 minutes). 

Barkly came to me because his time had been up and his chances were through. This chocolate lab mix was about to pass for no other reason than being in the wrong place and out of time. I agreed to take him, and immediately fell in love, and I knew this fella would be moving on fast, but I had no idea how fast. There were people in the parking lot at 1:00 pm and when the door opened they asked to see the dogs. By 1:07 pm this boy was out, and being given more love than he had in a long while and he was lov'in it! A perfect gentleman, other than that excitedness that comes from being under-stimulated, and it worked perfectly for him. 

Good luck, you lucky, lucky boy (was it the shamrocks that are still hanging in our windows?)! You now will get a four mile walk each day, and the countryside to run in. I know you will appreciate it - life is there for you now.

Sunday
My great start to the week, actually started on Sunday. As most of you know, I work for stress relief on occasion, and Sundays for Pet Valu. 

I love meeting all my adopted friends, and seeing them loved and spoiled. It is a great way to clear my head from those less happy thoughts and fill it with the excitement I see and the love in the eyes of the customers as they talk about their beloved four legged family members. 

This Sunday I had three fantastic visitors. Hush ... who some of you know, a special friend I hold dear to my heart came to get a halti (his momma reads my newsletter). While chatting we discussed her difficulties in walking her two dogs together and then Tatu showed up! I jumped on the opportunity to get it done right, and within 15 minutes had them walking perfectly side by side. I enjoy helping with fixable problems and it is a great pleasure. 

My Willie showed up and boy he looks great, actually getting fat'ish and some muscle tone. His momma also having trouble walking him ... believe it ... he is STRONG NOW, and in a few minutes I had convinced her there were better ways. I loved seeing him so full of life, so well and now heeling on the end of a leash - I couldn't have been more pleased. Thanks for the wet willies big guy, I missed them. 

And to top off my great day, there was a visit from a kitty friend formerly known as Austin, and we talked about how wonderful he is and his new name is Dooda ... cause his sister's name is Zippy. How great is that!

Cinnamon
She bounced into the Mix this morning, leapt into the sound room, and bounced again right onto Bob's lap. I don't think he was impressed as he passed on the photo opportunity.

Cinnamon continued her very happy ways, all the way to Rogers. She pooped in my van, then chewed my fingers live on TV, rolled around quite crazily, jumped on poor Gloria, and then chewed my fingers again. They actually bled a little, and when I noticed it I prayed the watchers wouldn't. 

As crazy fun as the morning was, I couldn't help but be sad. Only a pup living in an apartment with no exercise picks up manners like these, and that made me frustrated for her. The rest of her day turned out OK and despite her wild ways, she settled as she tired, and was adopted. 

I am sure hoping they understand Cinnamon needs a lot of time, exercise and training, as I sure wouldn't want to see her come back again - larger and bigger, and more excited to see me. Let's keep our finger's crossed!

Llyle
With the luck of St. Patrick's Day around the corner, we prepared today with shamrocks, and a special Irish hat for Llyle, which he really hated, and wore only for a minute. 

I Googled St. Patrick to learn he was imprisoned, and then later converted to a life of goodness and was regarded as a Saint. In thinking of my imprisoned pets, who soon will be adopted, I am hoping that the luck of the Irish will be with them soon. I hope, that a bit of green could go a long long way? If not, the newcomers, those stray cats which will arrive with spring, could be given Galeic, Irish or appropriate names such as Lucky or even Toadstool. 

What would be really lucky would be to see no new additions, I will wish for that.

Scoop?
With the snow melting - the poop pops up, and I do not mean at the Shelter. The phone has been ringing off the hook with people complaining about messes in the City. 

We do not deal with poop and scoop by-laws, however, these complaints go directly to City Hall (just like a dirty yard with garbage), please phone (519) 376-4440 (ext 275) or email (bylaws@e-owensound.com) the By-Law Department.

You also know it is humanly impossible for me to know which dog is responsible for a mess. If you did not see them, I really have no way of knowing who it belongs to.

It may be a bit late to phone or email your complaint now about the poop at Greenwood Cemetery, Harrison Park, the parks, and the Marina - as this was probably deposited months ago. Without someone seeing this happen, there is nothing I can do to trace its' source. If you have a complaint about poop, it will be helpful if you watch the area for persons with dogs, with and without poop bags. The key would be that they are not cleaning up after their dog when they walk them.

I do know most of the dogs in the City, and know where they belong. If you could give me a description, that would be helpful. It would be better still if you knew a time, or location they frequent the area, then I can keep tabs on the area and watch for persons who do not clean up after their dog. 

If you do see a person allowing their dog to mess up the City and they do not clean it up, please report it (we can take the details too). 

We have increased patrols in those areas where we are receiving calls about this. We will continue to offer our time to troublesome locations, in the hopes of finding the human culprits.

A dog has to go at least once a day ... and that will add up for sure, seven a week, thirty-ish a month ... minimum 365 per year!?! and most dogs go twice!!

Spring is in the Air! 
Other than the kitten calls, I know it is around the corner. We always know when nature starts on it's way. 

This morning I saw robins (and no not just my kids). The wildlife calls are coming in. Here is a heads-up for those who may see them - they are moving around, are waking up and they have no idea where they are or what time it is. 

They are mating, and starting that journey towards having offspring. Things are pretty messed up for those who were sleeping, and are now waking up, with hormones flaring! Please keep a close eye on your pets, more now than ever they may encounter friends in your backyard. If you see a skunk, raccoon or fox - take a deep breath, avoid them, and leave the area. In a short time, they will move on, and relocate. They may be stumbling and appear injured or in distress, it never hurts to report it, and please call the MNR, who are the experts, but have comfort in knowing there are a great deal of changes happening for them. 

As the snow melts, finally, please know that these little animals are looking for places to have offspring. So, block off that hole under your shed or deck as soon as it becomes obvious. Be careful where you store garbage and food wastes, they are hungry! We can all live together perfectly, with patience and understanding.

Toby
Toby was my radio star today, and it was well quite an emotional start to my day. 

I loaded him into the truck and he accepted it so well. We made a stop at Tim Horton's and I ordered him a few Tim Bits. It broke my heart that he was him not sure what to do with them when he ate them. He sure gobbled them up; they were a special treat for sure. The people at the Station were all so new, and he greeted them with his tail wagging, but firmly tucked between his legs. He cowered when they reached for him, and rolled over in submission. It was then I realized this was likely more fun than he had ever had in his whole life. My radio show was all about Toby; all about his goodness. It was a struggle not to add many details of his past life. He had been a hunter, and a chained dog his entire life. Truck rides were about the next run with other dogs around him. He accepts children kindly, but likely has not much experience with them. I hope I made it clear that I hope this was his last winter outside and nothing more could be so true! 

He is so deserving of a loving home, and I can't wait to make that happen.

Friends
Never tell me you're looking for a friend for your dog, and that you're thinking about exactly what I have in the dog area. Always ask about what I have first, lol. If I think you're a fantastic owner, I am going to take advantage of you, look out! I am sure so many of you already have seen me in action (you're interested aren't you?) 

I had a visit and update from a dear friend Dixie. Two months ago she was homeless and now living a great life. She has acreage to run and loves to run with the snowmobile, plays ball for hours and enjoys chewing on her squeakies. She shares the couch, the bed, and is doing wonderful. She looks great. Dixie has settled nicely, is calm, cool and well mannered (awesome job guys). Today she came for her microchip, to ensure this home was permanent and her dad casually says, you know my wife was thinking about a friend for Dixie too, we had two dogs. Well, of course I sent him back to see the sad sight, of that ten week old behind bars (sorry not on the site). I said "I would call him Duke" ... ha ha! The dogs romped and played, and shared the ball, it was a great meeting for sure. 

Looking forward to their return for that pup's microchip! Promise I won't do it again! ... my fingers are crossed :)

They're Back
The cats are back, and all is well. 

Poor bald Mats, looks ... well, less than himself. He has gone off to Pet Valu for display, and I am certain someone who takes him home will buy him a coat. So cute in his own pitiful way, and so much more comfortable than dealing with that bad hair day. We picked and pulled and cut out so many, but it is far better to start off fresh and new. A disadvantage of a longhaired cat perhaps is the need to brush them, but he loves it, consider it quality time. This boy was clearly a housecat, and clearly missed out on that important time. A better home will earn him a better coat, that is for sure. 

The girls are also settled, and excited, as I have told them it is almost time to go home. Check them out - Blonde, Mats and Alley; the next three to find themselves a great home.

Mats
When the pager goes off and it's the vet (I have cats under the knife), well you freak - I sure did. 

I was certain it was the "we have a complication" call, and I began to panic. I immediately went over the cats I had sent, could they have been already fixed, pregnant or ill? To my surprise and my relief, it was all about Mats. Literally. Mats was a terribly matted male cat. The call was about losing his hair, and well loosing his other parts while he was under ... phew. Poor Mats, bald and well .. altered.

Watch for his cute self, returning soon, a few pounds lighter?

Snow Day
A blowy day, with snow again; made for a quieter day at the Shelter. 

Most people who came in were interested in just looking, perhaps a good way to window shop on a snow day. 

My Sunday night call to pick up an elderly lab turned out OK. He was returned home today. A real relief as this eleven year old was missing them so bad. Unfortunately, there was a discussion as to whether they wanted to "just leave him behind". I hope that was just an attempt to have me wave the fee. I would hate to think that after eleven years with this old boy, they thought he was not worth the world to them. 

On a positive note, in my spare time, I have been thrilled to be able to check the updates on my "Will". You know I love it when there is a happy ending. He is thriving, and doing all sorts of crazy dog things. He has decided the couch is great for sleeping on, and way better than his cage, but so far the only major obstacle. What a lucky boy to have the option of a couch. A few weeks ago I didn't think this would come for him. 

Here's hoping, it's comfy couches for all my friends real soon!

Time to Say Goodbye
He had not been gaining the way I wanted him to. He was totally stressed out being alone at the Shelter. I couldn't do anything more for him - I tried everything. I loved him terribly and today I had to let him go. Will has been adopted and has gone home.

Will still has a battle ahead, some separation stuff to conquer, but his emotional damage is not something I can treat at the Shelter. He was busting free of the rooms we left him in, cried in his cage, and spent the rest of the time getting all stressed out. Not good for healing! He came to love us, loved to be with us, but hated it when we went home. I couldn't ask him to do that anymore. I wanted him going to his forever home all fat and back to his puppy self, but you know how much he has been through - that was truly impossible. 

Will's new mom is a blogger, so if you would like to keep up with Will in the future; check out www.emmajane.net. I am sure she has an update on there right now.

I sent Will home with a full belly, a bag of special food (as well as some canned), a collar, a leash, a coat (thanks Sandi and Kim for the handmade coat) and all our prayers and love. I will continue to worry for him, but I know in time Will is going to be fine.

I will not forget you my Will, who taught me so much about survival, and the power of positive thoughts and prayer.

I would like to thank every one of you, for everything you did to help Will through his ordeal. He has gone home.

Strays

Soooo, apparently another person does not read my blogs.

A stray young dog came into today (told you spring was coming) and I worry he has been a drop.

The entire week has been full of, shall we say, disappointments. People have not being honest with me ... it's starting to feel like all strays are really owned pets.

Loved that micro-chipped cat - Lisa. We traced the microchip back to you. The "stray" story or how much you loved those two cats "you found at Tim Horton's" (which your landlord confirmed you owned) is a bit of a stretch - even in my book.

Here's hoping this is not the case with the dog and that the owner will be coming soon.

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