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

Write-up on Renee's book in the Sun Times...> 

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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 and Neuter Fund.

Keep up-to-date  with our schedule.

His finder told us how he tried to climb into his car; not a typical stray, clean and unscathed from the outdoors. I know there are no homes near Home Depot. So my doubts faded, and instead there was excitement when this kitty was sporting a microchip. We began celebrating his return to home, certain someone would be missing him. I was extra excited when I found his owner was in the same place and had not changed addresses. I noticed that this boy had traveled, a good hour drive from his home and we began to assume that he had accidentally hitched a ride, and ended up with me. 

A gentleman at that number agreed they had a cat fitting that description, but his cat was was sitting right in front of him. Now are excitement became confusion. Then a women called and my confusion grew to anger as the story soon changed. The lost cat must be hers, but she could not take it back as her new baby had allergies and she could not have a cat. 

It took me a minute to get it. How could they NOT have a cat, if he said the cat was there? Urgh! I was thinking of them as I drove home in the rain and thinking of this poor cat who at nine years old had likely been an indoor cat, tossed out in the cold. 

I suspect they dropped him off and in the next few days I guess we will know. Disappointed once again in people, who would opt for dishonesty and cruelty instead of compassion for an old friend. I hope I'm wrong, and hate it when I am right. Initially, instinct always proves best and I was right this boy was not a stray.

Update

One day later "she" paid the release without even viewing the cat. "She" does not admit to what she has done, BUT does not have to. How lucky Pongo is that someone scooped him up at Home Depot and knew to bring him to the Shelter so he would survive.

Chatty
Last Friday it was Chatty, a handsome orange and white longhaired kitten, who came to me as a stray from Wal*Mart, although we were pretty certain he was the same one from Chatsworth. 

I called him Chatty, in honour of those people who "found him"; as chatty is what those from chatty call it. I had no idea that "chatty" would suit the rest of his story, as he did his radio and TV debut and ended up the new family member of Julie from Bayshore Broadcasting. This put a whole new meaning on the name Chatty (as Julie chats for a living). Loved that. 

Tomorrow it will be a mad dash for me, from CFOS with the book launch information (am 560) to the Shelter for a dog, and back to Mix 106 for the Morning Zoo. I decided to bring with me a sweet girl (also a stray and equally as beautiful), Scotch (being a Scotch Collie).

Here's hoping that the radio does as well for her, but what type of home would a name like that bring? You will have to tune in.

Scarface
The spirits are up following the TV announcements today, and a visit from our pal Scarface. 

Thank you Ashley "Scarface's mom" for the visit and the fantastic update; we really loved seeing him. He will always have a special place with all of us, and we are all so glad it is working out so well.

Our apologies if you witnessed that crankiness today, with that man who clearly forgot that he called us two months ago about surrendering his cat, and is unaware that we write all those things down. Too bad, he forgot and tried to call it a stray today. 

HEY MISTER, WE WRITE EVERYTHING DOWN! We always remember those sort of things for very good reason! 

Is it the end of the month again? I guess you see now how much we need those happy tail updates? 

On another note, today on my way home I saw a tiny skunk wandering through the tall grass. I thought I would just remind you that they are once again moving around at all hours of the day in preparation for the fall and that long sleep that follows. 

Remember to avoid all wildlife, know where your pets are and be sure all openings on your buildings are sealed. Otherwise, they may spend the season with you!

Today was the third annual pennies for pets with the Strathcona School. Once again, Mrs. Gardiner's class, has proven how great kids can for the animals. They had donated blankets and newspaper, treats, toys, food and litter. We filled two vehicles and part of a third with - all for the Shelter animals. I spoke to them about the Shelter, the job I do and how the children have help us.

So, in honour of their achievements, I chose to read a few chapters from my new book. I think it is pretty good and I am proud of it. But, when it came time for me to read from the book, well I was speechless - really! Although the words were right in front of me, I just couldn't make them come out; thankfully Mrs. Gardiner saved me.

While Mrs. Gardiner read, the kids sat in awe and I couldn't have been more pleased. They were all listening to the stories of those that had suffered and I saw the children's feelings of compassion on their faces. I was teaching them and I pray making a difference with them. 

I think it is good to know that I had a hard time reading from my book because I have a TV appearance and then radio promotion for the book and I had planned on reading. I will now change my plans to read and I am thankful that there will be others to read at the Book Launch.

Update on First Aid Seminar
Everyone is talking and it is all good news. 

The Seminar was a wonderful success. Dr. Gadd gave a great presentation, and provided so much helpful information. She spoke for longer than anticipated and covered more than expected.

The entire day went off problem free and both OSAS and ANML RESQ were pleased with the turnout. I loved that once again we were working together and helping our animal companions.

Dr. Gadd giving presentation. 
Dr. Gadd can be contacted at (519)386-4368.

Personally, I am thrilled to pick up some information that will be helpful at the Shelter. Dr. Gadd spoke about a couple of holistic methods of treating animals. One of these methods was knowledge of the pressure points to help an animal in respiratory distress. That could come in very handy, but I hope that is something I never really try out.

Just a wonderful and informative day with a great turnout.

First Aid Seminar
I acquired an even greater appreciation for my radio and TV friends today, as I struggled through the morning with both, thinking only of sweet Precious. 

I was really quite bummed and had hoped to celebrate, so I was doubly disappointed. Thoughts were of the fourteen year old who had never been loved like my dog in her whole life, except maybe the time she was with me? I anticipated yucky emails as everyone let me know how they felt, even though my hands were tied. It was difficult to smile, and think happy thoughts, but as the day went on things became much easier. 

Preparations are now complete, and it will be a fantastic presentation tomorrow. I have spoken to Dr. Gadd, and what she has is wonderful, and there are surprises, great gifts, raffles, draws and wonderful give aways. 

We had great adoptions that brightened things up, and then a visit from Lorne and Gabe. Gabe is a regular blog reader, who wanted to contribute to the seminar. They drove all the way from Toronto to make a delivery from Global Foods. Thank you both, I needed a little extra today, and thank you both for giving it.

Our Precious
On Tuesday there was pure excitement, knowing what lay ahead. We celebrated laying charges and knowing that we had them. 

We found the owners of our little Precious, who we now know was actually named Princess. We could seek revenge for what they had done, on her behalf, and could try to use their disregard for her as an example to others.

Today, two days later, we have succeeded in making them pay; however, we are not celebrating. When the reality of Princess' age and difficulty in placing her started settling in, reclaiming became an option. Charges could still be laid, and the owners became responsible as they should have been for their sweet girl. So, this option was chosen - to give her back her old life and send her back with the owners. 

There were tears as I handed her over and the tears were mine. She was returned to a life she was familiar with, a family she knows and a house she can maneuver in. I pray that they will be kind to her and care for her because she needs them. 

I am heartbroken, and would have loved nothing more than to see something better for her. I would have wished her younger and make all her health problems go away - if I only had the power. I will be checking in on her often and having others check in too.

I celebrate making some of her problems right, but am humbled by my inabilities to be God.

Sleepy Head
I was pretty well in a daze, coffee lid still closed and I was thinking about the day ahead. Only half paying attention to what was going on around me, and mostly just watching my driving. I noticed a vehicle parked by the Shelter driveway, but again really not paying attention, until I see a man over by the dog yard. This does get my interest and then I realize he has a dog and is leaving it behind! Forget the coffee, get parked behind the vehicle and memorize the plate number! All this was going through my head and I was wide awake, out of the truck and walking at a brisk pace to catch the man. 

I wondered if my day was about to start with an argument as it wasn't truly 9 am yet? It turns out this boy apparently was a stray; although, not from my area. We stand around and talk for a minute and I discover this guy was on his way to work. Five minutes later my stress subsides with the details all sorted out. 

Is anyone missing a black lab from north of Markdale? The dog has gone off to that area's animal control, but you know I will be checking in.

Glad I turned up when I did because the stress was worth it. Otherwise, how would I have ever known that boy had come so far and would have been left behind my gate?

Believe it or Not
It was a little out of procedure. We did bend the rules a little, had to make some alterations, but for this big girl things are outside the norm. 

A cat quarantine is ten days. This is a minimum time period and sometimes longer. We do this to ensure health, temperament, and also litter box usage. A vetted cat is treated as all the others, and this quarantine is done, for our good, the good of the cat and the good of the new owner. Every now and again someone asks about one that has not done "its' time" and when we remind them of what they could potentially be taking home (a less than perfect cat) they usually agree to wait the few extra days. Believe me, if I could keep the cats from the stress of staying behind bars, I would, but the reality is once we start our journey we need to go the long haul. 

Ripley was the largest cat to ever hang out in the bathroom, which has now been for seven days. I was now faced with a dilemma of whether to follow the rules for this big girl who really has not been following the rules entirely in the bathroom, or pass on a great home and wait it out. That would mean more bathroom days; potentially many more. So, I let her go. Reiley has now gone to her second chance, with strict feeding instructions, vet lists and an exercise regime - walk to the food? With her heart being under so much pressure we needed to do what we could to make her life easier. 

I'm counting on you guys (new owners) to make her second chance exactly what she needs.

Bulb Fundraiser
What a terrific success - thank you! Thanks you for contributing to the bulb fundraiser. 

The numbers have been counted, and re- counted and re-counted ... seems to take many counts to calculate, however, get ready for the total. We sold a total of $2,173.00 in bulbs, which we make half the profits for a whopping $1,086.50.

The biggest thank you to Teri Van Alst who sold the largest amount of bulbs for a grand total of $736.00 worth! Congrats on your new Pet Valu gift certificate. I will get it to you shortly! Thanks for all those sales!

Thank you all for making a difference. All monies raised go toward saving lives and thanks to you this will continue to go on.

The Lure
Once again, it never really occurred to me that it might not be my job to help out. I never realized that it might not be in my best interest, nor did it really matter. That poor seagull wrapped in a towel with that BIG fish lure attached to it - one hook right through his wing and the other firmly stuffed up his nostril. 

I could have turned her away, with that bird in her hand, but realized that he could not continue on like that and it was pretty likely no one else could help him - not anytime soon. 

So, everyone who was standing around, grabbed something to help, Todd the pliers, Sandi one end of the bird, and me the other (even my friend Karen who had stopped by got involved and grabbed the beak). It was with some careful persistence, and gentle wiggles the wing came free. Some twisting and a few turns and the remaining hook popped free. 

Before letting go of this wild animal I decided to test his wings, and offer him a chance to flap them, holding him firmly underneath and tossing him upwards. Apparently my encounter with the friendly pigeon made me forget. Forget that wild birds don't like to be held. As soon as he flapped, he let out a loud scream and then firmly latched onto my arm. I did what came naturally, and ran for the door, and tossed him again towards the sky; luckily he released me and off he flew. 

I should have known better, and my thanks was seeing him disappear into the horizon.

Bathroom Cat
Ripley, at age 7, was surrendered because she was not happy with the new baby. I was kidding when I asked why call her Ripley. Was it because she was a "believe it or not kind of cat"? I hadn't peeked in the box yet. When Sandi couldn't lift the box I still didn't peek inside.

When I finally peeked inside, I was truly surprised to find that this girl was surely a record breaker. Never in my life have I seen a cat this large. Ripley is now in my record book at an estimated 40+ lbs. (should we charge admission to view her - just joking).

But seriously though, on a sadder note, Ripley is in serious danger much like my friend Tipper (another scale tipper). Ripley's insides must be in distress and the added stress of now being homeless can't be good for her. It was kindness that made her so large, and it is not often I frown on love, but my thoughts are with Ripley.

She is now our big bathroom cat (as she does not fit in a cage) and I pray her broken heart holds out until we can find her a new home.

Puddles
Thank you Candice for leaving your scrubs in the office. You likely did this by accident, but today I was truly grateful because I really needed them, and I promise to return them. There is typically a spare shirt, or full uniform kicking around, literally, somewhere. However, following my skunk incident and only one left, I hadn't returned it yet. 

A stray cat, today, turned out to be a real stray which was covered in fleas, lice, full of dirt and terribly matted (we do know you did not find that clean cat that smells like your house by the way, those of you who have tried this). There were mixed emotions, glad he was truly lost, and not another person failing to be honest, glad to get him off the streets and disappointment at the same time that someone let him get to this condition. 

He was with us a few short minutes and into the tub he went in an attempt to remove those parasites before they became a bigger problem for all of us. Here was me itching and scratching and still in my uniform and dripping wet (as typically bathing cats always ends up this way).

It was only when debugging him, as he sat on my lap, that I needed another change of clothes. Suddenly, I was much wetter and this water was very warm - Puddles (his new name) relieved now in so many ways - has christened my lap, and I was so grateful for those clothes that were left laying around.

A Question of Balance
If you were one of the people who asked about Max today; thank you for asking. If you were one of the people who asked about the young Springer and you have young children; thank you for asking why we say "no young children". However, if you were one of the people, we said "no young children to" and you decided to argue with us and question our reasons and felt the need to "try it out anyhow" ... pay close attention. 

Max is a wonderful giving, loving and willing-to-learn dog, however, he is also shy, protective at the same time, spoiled rotten and has little training. He is lunging, snarling at strangers and has shown to be aggressive out of protection for his people. He will be just fine in the right home with proper training, socializing and a neuter. He will not be fine with any children. With Max or any other that we say "not recommended for children", we are being entirely honest ... why on earth would I make a dog harder to place? The fact is this is in the best interest of the dog and your children. 

Please ask me to find you a better suited dog, and continue to ask questions. However, you need to trust me if the match is to be made right.

Looking
The emails are coming in, posters are being put up, and everyone who reads the blog, is concerned and looking for the owner of the poor old dog who now is being called Precious (not that she knows this).

As time goes on, my gut instinct is beginning to feel correct and I do not believe anyone is looking for her. Let's face it, if you lost your blind and deaf dog wouldn't you be running up and down the street banging on doors and calling everyone and especially me? I am reachable 24/7 ... reality is they are not looking for her ... they know where she is, and they likely sent her there. 

We are still looking for people who know her. We would love to locate the owners for a different reason. We would love to know her history, age and medical records. I would love to give her back her name. Please keep her in your mind, and keep your ears open. 

At the same time, consider a space in your home for her, and ask those you know with a big heart. Soon it will be time to search for new home, instead of her old one. 

On a different note, Friday is the last day for bulb orders. If you have orders out, kindly hand them in, and if you would like to order and have not ... please do.

Lost
Does anyone recognize this dog?? Can anyone tell me where she belongs? This poor old soul was picked up as a "stray" by someone, and I pray she is merely lost. Blind and deaf, I cannot imagine why someone would not be searching for her. 

I am loosing hope that someone is looking, and am beginning to think we were used as a disposal service. I question those actions, and wonder how someone could be so heartless to leave this girl with no idea where she is, where home is, all her familiarities gone and in her golden years when she needs her family now more than ever. 

I am taking solace in knowing that she cannot know the kind of place they had left her and without sight or sounds. My heart breaks for her, and I am longing for a happy ending. 

If anyone knows of a missing Shih Tzu mix, spayed female, from the East side of Owen Sound, very old, blind and deaf, please call 519-372-1123. 

If you are the owner of this dog, and need help in caring for her, please call, we will put your actions behind us because she needs you. AND if you are the owner, reading this, and still not coming ... shame on you! Look into those cloudy eyes and remember your loyal friend! Don't ever forget what you have done to her.

Matching
It is typical to match the pet with the best suited home. For example very active large dogs do not do well in a small apartment, unless your going to take him jogging twice a day or a cranky cat is not likely along so well with children, etc., etc. I am not sure I have ever placed a dog in a home where they were were so much alike, but I guess we will see if this method works. 

The call came for a large'ish, senior, female dog. I immediately thought of my best pal senior girl Gretta. I mention that she is older and slower moving, to which I get "me too". I mention she is loving and giving, and has a heart of gold. I say "her eyes are a little cloudy" and again I get "me too" and she is arthritic, and does not go so far, and again "me too". Then there is a long pause, and a question about her history, health concerns, temperament with other pets ... then another pause and then ... "why do you call her Gretta"? I say, "well, she is an older girl and I thought the name Gretta was mature". I get "she is an antique, a older treasure and Gretta will suit her". The rest they say is history with this antique? 

Let's hope life for Gretta now is golden. If similarities have anything to do with it, there could be nothing better. Hey our racing pigeon Lanky, has now gone home ... 

Inseparable
When the day starts with an email, a happy tail about my two girls which I thought about all night, it is a good day. Cali and Kitty were two inseparable beautiful Calico cats and are doing OK.

These older girls who came together had lived forever together and had waited here for weeks and weeks to find a new forever home. Although there were many interested because of their great appearance and personality, their age was a deterrent. 

Many would consider one elder cat, but few would consider two. Each time someone asked about adopting only one, I considered separating them. Would it better to leave them together and homeless or have them parted with other families? 

I watched them groom each other and share the bed to sleep and my heart broke for them, fearing that I would have to make a decision I did not want to make, I began to give up hope. Then a call came in. These girls have now been adopted together and will continue to lean on each other and spend the rest of their days together. Not only did Cali and Kitty get a loving home but great jobs as well. They are now mascots for the United Way with so many hands to love them! Thank you United Way for helping these girls too! 

Now for the 'beep beep' update... Roadrunner IS GOING HOME ... and has a proper name - it is Lanky (pretty close to Roadrunner?). It turns out this bird was in mid-race heading from Tobermory to Erin, ON and had been racing since Saturday. Lanky is owned by a pigeon racer who has assured me this is not just "some bird", but is of European and American decent with family in Belgium, and a father from Okalahoma. Wow!

Not only are they glad to have located him, but they will be coming for him right away. ID's save the day ... once again.

Meep Meep
Anyone loose a pigeon? Seriously folks. Mother Nature laughed when I accepted the turtle, and sent me a pigeon... "take this she says!" and the challenge, again, is on. However, this one ... ha, ha, Mother Nnature, has places to go! 

This poor boy, who we believe has met up with a pellet gun, is a racing pigeon. This is all according to the handsome bling on his leg.

I learned so much today! Tracing tattoos and microchips a regular occurrence, but bird bands are not my thing. The band reads C.U. HV 180 2007 and is green all written, of course, on a tiny band that fits on a pigeon ankle! Small letters! 

So, some phone calls later I ended up talking to "Charlie" the smartest bird man I have ever spoken to. Charlie knew that this was a racing pigeon, and broke down all those parts for me. " C.U is Canadian Union, HV is the district, and he believes this boy is from Hamilton, AND the 180 is his name so to speak, I prefer "Roadrunner" which well, is obviously why we called him that. Beep, Beep! ... Let's hope for a speedy return home for this boy, and that he can still get some points in the race.
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