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.

By: Renee Robins*

WE WANT YOUR EMPTIES ... BRING YOUR BEER AND WINE BOTTLES INTO THE SHELTER for fundraising. All monies go to the spay/neuter, medical fund.

Hound Dog Update; 
More...?; 
Sophie and Keisha; 
1st Cat Has H1N1; 
Surrenders!; 
Itchy; 
Christmas Pictures;
Please Wait Your Turn;
Found - Orange Male Cat;
Orange Male Cat - Update;
BSL;
Queen's Park;
They're Back;
The Darkness is Coming;
Banjo;
Heads Up;
Duke;
The Pups are Here!;
Sam;
Santa Arrived Saturday;

Archives
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email your comments 
to: osas@bmts.com

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

Keep up-to-date  with our schedule.

Santa Arrived Saturday
It was a day filled with comfort and joy, glad tidings, and a great deal of holiday spirit! Santa attended Pet Valu for our 3^rd Pet Christmas Party with pictures too. 

As always, I enjoyed seeing my friends dressed in their holiday best prepared to tell the big guy how good they have been. I enjoyed a visit from Chelsey, formerly Lexie, (or known to me as Jesse's puppy), Polar, and Sabre too. There was Maggie, and Molly and Heidi and Frenchie too! Hush brought his people too! A personal awesome moment for me was seeing Curley sitting so pleased on Santa's knee with his big no teeth smile, new haircut, and sporting his wonderful collar with ID. The joy expressed by his mom and dad warmed my heart, and the love they had for him touched every part of my soul. A once mill dog, dumped on the streets is so very deserving. 

And even my pal eek had his chance to shine as well, and Santa sure was a good sport to pose with him. 

I loved to see the bunnies show up with their best attire, and one who brought her list for Santa too! 

With the spirit of giving now in the air, each were given treats and wished a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Those wishes were sincere as I hope for each all the best. 

The Biggest thank you to the photographer Leslie Puiras (please check out her website as thanks), Teri for her help, TJ Santa for being such a good sport, Di for everything she has done and Pet Valu for once again going the extra mile to support the Shelter.

Thanks to all of you nearly $500.00 dollars was raised to help keep us operating, and with surgery day again today, it sure is nice to know it will continue. You help me save lives, for that I thank all of you.

Sam
There was celebration today with the adoption of Sam. He was another Quebec fellow unadopted and given a second chance. He was 8 year old and a deterrent for many, also he with his cloudy eyes. The elders are harder to move and I feared he may sit caged for weeks or months while people walked right past him. A few asked, and were unimpressed by his age, and I was unimpressed by that. However, I understand loss is hard to accept when you first acquire a pet, and an older pet means sooner to lose (it's not you that umimpresses me, it's the situation this poor dog is in).

When they came to see him, having just lost their friend and I was certain they wouldn't interested in Sam when they heard his age. But knowing they were an older and quiet home, I thought they would be perfect. As we talked longer, and they told me of their great companion they were hoping to replace, I prayed it could be him. Road trips, and long movie cuddles on the couch, and monthly trips to the dog groomer for baths and spoiling. They asked to spend time with him, and I was thrilled. They saw my excitement, and they may have even read my mind. It was like Christmas inside when that kind woman touched my shoulder and said "our last poodle was 16, this one is just getting started in life". 

I was celebrating. It was exactly what I needed to hear, and exactly what Sam needed. Good luck Sam...

The Pups are Here!
Goodness knows we all love puppies. We love to smell them, squeeze them and hug them. I love to love them, and then let them move on (puppies are such trouble). They came to me as four of the saddest looking sad puppy eyes ever; Walker Hounds. Banjo finds a home I celebrate, and I end up with four :( happy thoughts gone. 

It seems even breeders find it hard to move hounds, and these four were created without this knowledge to those that made them. 

If you're looking for a puppy, please take the time to consider them, and when considering them, let's talk about all that makes them. 

Walkers or Treeing Walker Coonhounds are big dogs. They are easily 80 lbs or more. They are active dogs, and require exercise, and stimulation. They will otherwise create their own fun. They are very loyal, very smart, and willing to learn. They are a bit stubborn, but with training will offer you the stars. They may smell stuff well, and they may bark at it, and sometimes they may try to go on long adventures, but this is however, all manageable!!

Hoping they are not judged on breed, and rather considered for the cute puppiness they are. Hoping too that all parts are considered, as I wish with every adoption. I would really hate for them to return, for so many reasons that would not be their fault.

I gathered his bed and squeaky toys from his family he once loved and offered them to him. He circled in it tried to lay in it and then barfed all over it. Clearly his night would be a long one. I cleaned up his mess, sat with him and I promised that it would all get better. 

I remembered my night behind bars [or behind bars] and remembered all that I feared knowing what goes on there. So many adjust so well in our situation, but every now and again there is one who is devastated by it. 

He was used to having his people home all day, and he was already missing them. Duke was sad. I was sad. I worried about him all night. When the doors opened at 1 pm, there were people waiting, and someone came to see him. I did my best not to convince them that they needed him, as it was not my decision, but I knew they could see the sadness leave him when they walked him. 

In only a few hours we had his things gathered and he was off to a new family and a brother beagle too. I pray it works out for him, as returning might just kill him and me too!

Heads-Up
Today, I got my strength back. I got my power, after days of moping I found it. Your support has helped, and for that I thank you. I remember those that struggle with me each day, and the obstacles they overcome, and I used it as an example. I put my chin up and invited them in. 

I called the reporter and before our doors had even opened, moved nothing, made no exceptions to our procedures, and invited him in. When he arrived I offered him a tour, and permitted him to peek in all the cages. I showed off the surgical room, and all the changes we had made. I offered views of the new dog runs, and the dog play area, the new stainless steel cat cages, and the new air systems. I offered all my files in plain view for him to see, and by the end of the day had surrendered inspection reports, and all that I could offer. I have nothing to hide, I welcome all of you. 

I run a clean ship, and know what I do is right. I put my heart into each and every move I make, and at the end of the day my heart is happy. I have no regrets. 

Banjo
Thank you for your support, and please keep it coming, as we move onward only focusing on the positive. 

He arrived in his pick up truck, likely listening to Willy Nelson on the radio. He in his fifties, and wearing his jeans and cowboy boots. He arrived seeking out a Lab, and wandered to the back. He left rather quickly. 

Friday he returned, asking about Banjo. A smile came across my face. We spoke of his country home, and how he was seeking a companion. One to wander the fields with him, I imagined to run with the tractor. He told me of dogs he had in his past, and how they were his "best pal". 

He and Banjo walked together, and spent time together, and I watched them in the yard. He with his good old boy charm, and Banjo soaking it all in. In moments, Banjo was thrilled offering this guy all sorts of love, and I wondered if perhaps this was someone he could relate to. 

He came back through the door with his wallet in hand, and I told him I might cry. I told him, that he is just what I had imagined for this dog, and that I would have picked him. He laughed and said 'it was up to neither of us, as weeks ago he was chosen'. 

Upon seeking a Lab, and peeking through the cages Banjo reached through and touched him. That touch influenced him so much, he had to leave in a hurry, and left him thinking of him so much he had returned for him. 

Knocking on wood as I type this, and I pray this all works out for Banjo, as this is what I think all Banjo needed. Clearly Banjo agreed! Now, if only I could teach them all that trick it might eliminate the homeless??

The Darkness is Coming
A wise woman once told me "no matter how good you are, and no matter how much of a difference you try to make in this world, there will always be those who try to stop you. There will always be those for, who knows what reason, who take it upon themselves and ruin that good. There is a darkness that will follow you". 

This wise woman has been involved in animal rescue for many years. She is someone I recognize, admire and respect. I always took her words seriously. However, it's only after being thrown into the fire that I realize how there can be such a darkness. 

I have spent every minute of the last 11 years connected to a cell, phone or pager, worrying and helping. I have spent every moment to make lives better for the homeless, and for the people who love them. I have strived to educate, protect, and keep people and animals safe. I have made the broken well, and spent my last dime to do it. Each and every one of those furry friends have been loved like my own and their place to stay has been my second home. It disgusts me to now write the happenings of today ... the darkness has arrived. 

Today, was spent in conversation with a reporter. It seems that allegations have been made and I now find I must defend the Shelter. We are being backed into a corner, and are now 'that stressed out pup' feeling threatened. 

It has always been the Shelter's mandate to operate at our best and to do what is best for people and their pets, and we do our best to make all happy. It seems that there are those who would rather we did not, who would rather not fight for the cause and instead aim to destroy those who are making a difference for animals. These persons will be mentioned, I am sure, in this article when it is printed. I would like to take this opportunity to mention that this is great news for me [our lawyer is waiting].

If you have any concerns or questions you can contact me at any time. I have always been available to you and will answer any questions or concerns with honesty. Please keep the Shelter in your thoughts and prayers.

They're Back
It is time once again for the return of the Christmas stuffed socks! Back by popular demand! For $3.00 each you get a stuffed sock, filled with wonderful goodness (a surprise in each) for dogs or cats. 

These socks are great on the mantle, or by the fireplace just as Santa would leave them. They are available now, at the Shelter. 

We also have for a short time available some great dental chews and milk bone squishy treats. 

Great for the dogs in everyone's families. Proceeds, of course, to make life for the homeless animals easier too. Spoil your pet while helping those without a family this Christmas? 

Christmas donations are also accepted as gifts in honour, or in memory of someone. You can sponsor a pet, or have a message posted on our web site to those you love. Email me for details at osas@bmts.com.

Queen's Park
Today, I met just beyond the Queen's Park steps with a collection of fantastic people. With many were dogs, of all shapes and sizes, some of mixed breeds, and various purebreds, and there were those of Legislated restriction.

We stood for those speaking, posed for the press, and took in a moment of support for those against the Legislation. I took the time to meet and greet the dogs on-hand, and my heart was warmed by each and every one of them. 

Many offered their belly for rubs, and others whole bottom wags. It was with mixed feelings I met each of them. There was happiness to see them well, loved and with responsible owners, but terrible sadness to be unable to kiss their faces with those big ugly muzzles covering them. Of course, those of mixed breeds, and not listed, wandered freely with an open face. 

Approximately 75 people were in attendance, all with a message from a dog they know and love, and others they had known, and prayers for those they don't know. 

I was glad to be a part of it, and to be with such compassionate people. It is with passion we succeed. I hope the best for all of them and that the Private Member's Bill has a chance in the Legislature.

This was in the news this evening...>

BSL
Today, started with a TV appearance on Rogers. For those who are not aware, tomorrow there will be a Private Member's Bill introduced into the Ontario Legislation to remove all the prejudices of Pit Bulls from the Dog Owners Liability Act - DOLA. 

While on Daytime today we discussed the Act, the parts I agree with that give us more power in dealing with dangerous dogs, and persons responsible for creating such dangerous dogs. We also discussed the parts that I don't agree with, which would be what is being appealed. 

We discussed those which are of concern in our area, and the powers we have to deal with them. It proved to be an ironic start to the day, as the remainder of my day was spent dealing with dog attacks. 

Today, there were 3 reported :(  While we are now gathering the details, and follow protocol and procedure in preparing our case we plan the best solutions, and outcomes for those involved. 

While on Daytime today I was asked "are there really that many biting pit bulls"? It was unfortunate the show had not aired later in the day, as my response would have come with the most recent of stats. Of such attacks, one which resulted in a fatality of another dog, not one involved a pit bull, nor a dog classified as restricted in the Act. 

This is an Important statistic to keep in mind as I attend the rally at Queen's Park tomorrow. Hope to see you there.

Orange Male Cat - Update
Well, his name was not Lucky, my cat from Friday. Although, it should have been! Instead his name was Bill. It was however his lucky day Friday, and his luck continued on until today, as today his people came for him. HOORAY.

I must admit that this seldom happens. I am always hopeful especially when the cat comes in collared or clean (there is a big difference in a street cat as opposed to one that sometimes wanders). When they come in well fed, and without fleas and mites, without frost bite, and without looking like they just crawled out of a ditch, I am hopeful.

However, the reality is that out of the 200 odd "straying at large" cats we see each year, about a dozen go back home. It seems that cats are disposable. I would have bet money that the owner of Lucky [Bill], had they gone looking would learn he had had an encounter with a car. I would have also bet in learning that they either would not call me, assuming the worst, or call me to see if he was in fact alive, but fail to mention they owned him. I was near certain that no one wanted the vet expense, and that no one who allowed their cat to wander cared enough to bother. 

I love that I was wrong. It's a shame that my job has taught me to have such doubts, and it's a shame that I don't have greater faith in the human race. 

Perhaps tomorrow I will have a little extra as Bill [Lucky] left my facility and headed straight to another one, his vet. Although I would have liked Bill [Lucky] 'found' a little sooner, (it has been three days), I am OK with accepting this was not perfect. It sure could have been a whole lot worse. 

Good luck Bill, you're in my thoughts and prayers, I know love and luck is on your side.

Happy Birthday to Alyssa Lozon, who turned 8. 
We would like to thank you for your donation. She asked for donations to the Shelter in lieu of presents.

Found - Orange Male Cat
Halfway through my much awaited lunch with a friend I get a text. The message is from Todd "please bring a net, a broom, big gloves, and meet me quickly". 

Cutting my lunch short, I was frustrated as it already had proven to be one of those days, however, concern for whatever it may be was overriding those frustrations. I promptly drove to gather the items, as well as a few blankets and a large carrying cage. I didn't ask what these items were needed for, but I felt it was best to bring everything. 

When I arrived I spotted Todd, laying underneath a parked car. He gives me the details that a cat had been hit by a vehicle and had dragged itself under that of a parked car. 

The cat was unhappy, and not wanting to be gathered. I grabbed the tools, anticipating a difficult gathering as netting a wild cat under a vehicle while laying on your stomach, and keeping your face unscathed was going to be tricky. 

The first words to that kitty were "hey fella, heard it was Friday the 13th today, let's not make it a day to remember". Thank heavens his response to me was not to dive at my face!! It was a lucky day for me! 

Fortunately, I was able to grab him, and keep him comfortable without a struggle. Thankfully Todd and I have had lots of practice (don't try this at home). 

The woman of the home thanked us as "she would hate to drive over him when she had to leave". Yikes! He is doing OK, and we are hoping he will be reclaimed.

Is anyone missing an orange, neutered, male, shorthaired cat, wearing a flea collar, from the East Side of Owen Sound? He is lucky to be alive. It was his lucky day. 

Here's hoping luck will bring his people to him too. Fingers crossed for that.

Please Wait Your Turn
Here's a little heads-up for those that don't know - we have call display. We know who you are when you call and if you block your call we will not pick up the phone. 

That said, when you call me and tell me you found stray kittens outside the City of Owen Sound limits, I will do what is required and pass you the telephone number of your animal control. 

When they can't help you, for whatever reason, and you call me back and tell me you found them inside the City of Owen Sound limits and give me another name, it won't work because I know who you are from the second I pick up the phone. 

I have the description of the cats when you inquired, as it is the first question I ask. It does not go over well with me that you are lying. However, I am still available to help you! That said, you will go on the waiting list, as everyone else does, because we are a no-kill Shelter, which means I will not euthanize to make space for more animals. 

In anticipation of you dropping by the Shelter doorstep after hours, I will remind you that I know how to find you, where you live and I can prove these things because we also have surveillance cameras.

Christmas Pictures
Merry Christmas! I know, it's a bit early, but it is creeping upon us faster than we all realize. So close in fact, it is time for me to announce our Pet Pics with Santa!

The 'one day' only picture day this year will be on November 29th from 11:00 am - 5:00 pm. It will be at the Pet Valu in Owen Sound. Once again we will have a professional photographer attend and this time she is bringing fun props too! Santa, of course, will be there in person as well. 

Pics will be $15.00 per pet, with all proceeds to keep us operating and help make Christmas better for the homeless pets. 

There is nothing that makes me happier than seeing people love and spoil their pets, and treat them as the family members they are. This is one of my favourite fundraisers for this reason. It helps me get ready for the holiday season. I especially look forward to seeing those who have come through my doors and it makes me very happy. 

Please book a spot to ensure the day runs smoother for us. Appointments can only be made through Pet Valu and you can reach them at 519-376-2828.

Itchy
Itchy is doing sooooo well. Yes, Itchy (my little surprise from Friday) is a very suitable name for her.

Her discomfort is gone, her stress has lessened, and the redness and itch has left her. She is being treated with medication, and so far it is helping. Itchy is no longer itchy, but instead offering herself for belly rubs rather than bum rubs. It is heartwarming to see her respond to my touch, and attempt to crawl in my arms for more. Heartwarming to know she still accepts love and affection, and has no idea how mean her people have been. Her kisses, and snuggles are wonderful, although I do randomly pray her bad skin is not contagious. However, it would not be the first time I caught some bad skin from some creature lol. 

With Doc in today, and ten surgeries complete, we still managed to fit in time to check Itchy out and create a plan for her (did I tell you I love having a vet on staff?). It will be a few weeks before Itchy is clear to go home and I pray it goes fast for her. I will enjoy every minute of her until then, and am so glad we have her. 

Please keep Itchy in your thoughts, and prayers. Hope for a speedy recovery, and a great forever after for her. She sure deserves it.

Surrenders!
The day started with a wonderful update on my Chevy, a once slated for death Daschund. It warmed my heart to see him so well, and read the love between the lines in the email. Check out this update:

Jack, or Jacques for the bilingual, formerly known as Chevy is also an escape artist but with less sucess. He is out the door like a shot but cannot climb the fence or wiggle under the gate. With his history food is number 1 priority. Using his nose he flips open the improvised wallboard gate that is supposed to keep him out of the storeroom. He helped himself to a potato. Yum. Opening the cupboard that holds the kitchen garbage bin was a cinch. Bumping open the pantry bifolds was hardly worthy of his talent. Trickier was finding time alone to get on my husbands desk where he keeps a tin of kibble to shake to lure in and reward dogs reluctant to come in. That scored at least 2 cups worth of kibble and a big thirst. Then he tried table dancing one more time. Bingo on this one. 

I was booting myself for leaving a few slices of bread unattended while I went to read Renee's blog, honest, and probably leaving a chair too far out. Jack reassured me we shared the blame by showing me he can move the chairs even when pushed into position. Yummy bread. Our other dogs look at him with envy. But of course they are the lucky ones who have no need for such drastic survival skills. And the envy is because he never shares. I am sure he has knocked several seconds off any existing world records for food inhaling. I am going to go now and find me a cookie or two so no time for separation anxiety tales or who wants to be Alpha dog today.If I can remember where the cookies are. Attic? Garage? I just hope I find them first.

When Sophie found her forever home a short while later, there were smiles all around. I teared when I kissed her goodbye and asked for many updates. I thanked her new mom for giving her a second chance, and all of me celebrated with her. I turned to her as she headed for the door, and said "this is the reason I do my job".

A short while later, the happy thoughts were soon forgotten with the surrender of a sick pup who sported a lovely hole in her neck. While tending to her needs, came another surrender.

Without getting into the details, the lies, the deceit that followed [as this carries little significance] I will just say that I know the truth and you made yourself look very silly. Because you could see the state of this poor dog. 

Emaciated, and thin beyond breed determination she was handed to me. 

She with her elephant skin so bare and raw, she covered in fleas and scabs. 

She recently having weaned pups is still raw from where she nursed them.

I immediately placed her in the tub to remove all that was eating her, then held her to warm her and comfort her while I tried to wrap my brain around all that had happened. Tears in my eyes again, it suddenly occurred to me. She is the reason I do my job!

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A 13-year-old Iowa cat has been infected with swine flu, veterinary and federal officials said Wednesday in what is believed to be the first case of the H1N1 virus in a feline in the United States.

The domestic shorthaired cat was treated last week at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Ames and has recovered, officials said. The virus also has been confirmed in two ferrets — one in Oregon and the other in Nebraska — but they died.

“We’ve known certainly it’s possible this could happen,” said Centers for Disease Control and Prevention spokesman Tom Skinner. “This may be the first instance where we have documentation that transmission occurred involving cats or dogs.”

The veterinarian who treated the cat, Dr. Brett Sponseller, said two of the three people in the cat’s Iowa home had flu-like symptoms before the cat became ill. The case was confirmed at both Iowa State and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Read the rest of the article...>

Sophie and Keisha
I have placed a little pressure on myself, and need your help. Last Friday, while live on radio, besides talking about Halloween, and the adoptable (who is still homeless by the way) I mentioned my two older girls Sophie and Keisha were still looking for homes. 

I put out a plea to all those that listened and asked for help in finding them homes. I then committed to finding at least Sophie a forever home by the next show. 

I had hoped that by saying it, the karma would flow. The good vibes would kick in, and in no time this wonderful little dog would find a home. 

I anticipated listeners would come for her, or a friend of a friend who had tuned it. I hoped that someone who had considered her, and who was convinced she was gone would be reminded she is still looking, and was certain it would all come together for her, and by Friday she would have found a new home. 

Tomorrow is Thursday and one listener came to meet her, and I was sooo excited, but they went home to think on it, and that is the last I heard. Darn.

I am now asking all of you for help as I did my faithful listeners, if you know anyone, who is looking for an already trained, already perfect and wonderful and ready to fit right in smaller dog, please tell them about her. She is a mature lady, who although older in years has her full life ahead of her. Already she has spent way too long of what is left behind bars. She is not good with all dogs, however, we have worked on this and it is manageable. 

Please consider her, please tell others about her. Help me keep my promise to her, and help me not eat my words. Let's get her home !

More...?
This is the next installment of 'As the Hound Runs'..... and then.. just when I was confident all was well with hound dogs place came this message.. with a moment of panic, but then all is well! Here, you read:

Hi Renee... OMG I had a heart stopping afternoon with Hound Dog... I was so worried I would have to call you and tell you he is gone, and that was killing me.... He got off leash today, just a split second, and he was gone.... skirted around us like it was a game, in our yard.... then headed off down our dead end road, into the bush...me on his tail with my hound.... and he disappeared.... I found him again, only for him to skirt around me, out of my reach...into the thicker bush... I was through the concession at least twice, with sightings of him, hearing him.... and him teasing me.... I was heart broken, but after at least 2 hours I was tired, soaked and really pissed off at him...he just would NOT come, I almost had him twice, but he slipped away..... We couldn't get him, he wouldn't listen.... And I felt sick about it, deer season is tomorrow...... 

Anyway, after me and Dually trudging back home..... I was in the house (my dad is here visiting) and Clay went outside to make a snare on the end of a stick so if we went for a drive, and saw him, maybe we could catch him..... well...... I went and changed into some dry clothes...came outside, and the little bugger.... comes running up the road....right to my father..... I could have choked him if I wasn't so happy to have gotten him back.... I was so angry at him! But he redeemed himself by coming back.....  I tried to get my hound to go after him, thinking if they were playing and I called Dually back... that Hound Dog would..... Dually just looked at me like I was insane...... he's such a great dog :) 

Anyway, I'd say Hound Dog has pretty darn good sight, after watching him tree about half a dozen grouse and a turkey.... no way this dog is special needs! LMAO.... I've never run so fast in my life.... seriously, for so long..... and never been in the middle of the bush were you can't see 2 feet in front of you....Thank you Hound Dog.... for giving me a tour of our concession... darn stinker. 

I am sure as well, that a coyote skirted within feet of me in the bush.... t was grey.... and at least the size of a cattle dog...maybe a coon.... maybe a linx?? Who knows.....  But he's safe and sound...and now I know, he comes in the house, chain and all before I unhook him...... 

I hate to admit it, I giggled reading it. As a dog catcher and someone who has such things happen on a regular basis, I giggled. It was the been there done that, can;t catch them if they don;t want to be caught, empathetic giggle.

I was empathetic to the soaking wet, exhausted, and less than capable feelings that comes with getting so close and then not catching them. This is my life ! 

However, had it turned out differently, and hound dog could have ended up missing, there would not be a giggle. It seems hound dog will now be closely watched, and well, it seems he thinks he is home, as he returned. That also brings a smile to my face.

As you can see, it's starting to shape up nicely! lol

Happy Birthday to Stevie Valance from Ian and Beth

Hound Dog Update 
I was torn when I accepted him. I knew that he would be a hard mover as he was blind, a large dog, a hound, and had no history. I knew the odds of him moving quickly would be slim. I wondered if he could sit for months on end and I really did not want that for him. However, I knew that with my saying 'no', that there would be his death! I struggled to live with that decision. Although his taking the space of a cage for months was discouraging, I could not live with knowing I would have been responsible for his death. (I know it would be his original owner's fault and not mine at all but my conscious would still dwell on it.) I do know all dogs are worth trying and I needed to give him the chance no one else would.

When days turned into weeks, and weeks into what seemed like forever I began doubting my decision. Thank goodness he felt like being with us was home - if he would have struggled, my heart would have broken each day.

Then ... it happened a dear friend of the Shelter offered to take him home to place him, she would free him from behind the bars and find out everything there is to know about him, at least then we would have history. 

I held my breath for what felt like hours while I waited for an update and then one came ... and another... and another. I am pleased to share them with you. Check them out:

OMG Renee, he is an awesome dog! He tried to climb into the trunk! It was like "I'm outta here, yipee!!"... he rode in the car, we went for dinner, he hung out in the car, like he always traveled in my car! Ha ha... brought him home, let the dogs out one at a time, and it was "oh hey, how are ya?" and the usual bum sniffing, lots of tail wagging... looked at my cats... tail wagging, not overly interesting... he is however, over interested in the chickens! Ha ha... he's a hound dog... what can you say?

and then...

He can see pretty well out of his good eye... we watched him in the parking lot, he'd see someone across the lot, his ears perked up, and he followed them with his gaze... I tied him out and he gave a little half bark half cry because he tangled himself on the rocks.... he's smart, and playful... he's a great dog. 

and then...

and ya... he's house trained too... at least he didn't make a mess, and was thoroughly excited when I woke up to put him out... he's a treasure! 

You'd think he'd lived here his whole life, my dogs are treating him that way, and he's acting that way... 

It couldn't have gone any better ... will let you know how he is doing with the next updates!

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