Friday's Friend

My second friend to introduce you to today is Alfred.  My human got this email from PetConnect Rescue (the people who connected me and my human) about Alfred- a dog needing either a foster home or a Forever Home.  If you're not sure you want to have a dog in your home, frankly I don't know why you wouldn't since dogs are the greatest pets on earth (cats are close to it- but we dogs beat it by a few percentage points!), why don't you check out fostering a dog.  That will give you an idea of your liking. 

"Meet Alfred"

Meet Alfred.   He's bounced around like a ping-pong ball! Poor, sweet, gentle Alfred is extremely bewildered and desperately needs a foster (or permanent) home where he can once again learn that there are good people in this world and that life can have its joys. 

After years of neglect, Alfred found himself in a rural "gassing shelter" where he was held for less than a week before he was scheduled to be gassed.(OH MY GOODNESS!!!)   A local rescue league told PetConnect that Alfred was one of the nicest, most affectionate dogs they had seen in a long time and appealed to us to take him. We committed to taking him even though we were bursting at the seams with rescued dogs at the time. Since we are so desperate for foster homes, Alfred, unfortunately, was shifted from short-term foster to short-term foster and, once again, we find that we need a little stability for this dear, dear dog. 

 In spite of his rough journey, Alfred is as cuddly and loving as can be. He's a testament to the wonderful nature of a dog. He loves all people and children and gets along with cats. He seems to do well with female dogs, but doesn't do all that well with other male dogs. Alfred has been neutered, microchipped, is heartworm negative, and is all up to date on his shots. Alfred is 3 years old and weighs about 55 pounds. For more information, or if you think you might be able to help Alfred by providing him with a permanent home or a temporary, foster home (until he gets adopted), please email Mike at mikecourlander@yahoo.com of PetConnect Rescue.

Friday's Friend

"Sabrina"

I've got a couple friends to introduce to you today!!  If you're looking to adopt a cat or dog-- take a look at these two.

Woof!  I have a soft spot for all animals that are great moms! My friend, the Cat Lady, told me this week about a two year old cat who has been an amazing mom to her 4 kittens – her name is Sabrina! Here’s what she said about her: “She is a super friendly girl who is a wonderful, nurturing mother to her kittens which have now all been adopted.

Sabrina loved playing with her "babies" and taught them proper kitten manners. Petite and gorgeous, Sabrina has extremely soft black and white fur with a white undercoat that makes her coat appear to be a smoky color - very unique! She also has a smidge of white on the tip of her tail. Sabrina enjoys being petted and she is an excellent companion – very sweet, affectionate, and great with children. And Sabrina loves to play! WOOF!!!! She will run after her wand toy for as long as you are willing to play with her – and still begs for more. Sabrina is being fostered in a home with a dog so would be fine with a cat-friendly dog.” 

Now sweet Sabrina needs a forever home of her own – if that could be your home; please visit my friends at PetConnect Rescue:  PetConnect Rescue Adopt a Cat - Sabrina.

Quips, Quotes, Thoughts and Other Notable Sayings

I hope you had a great weekend.  I know I did, my human and I went for a long work, then headed to the Green Team at church where we pulled weeds and cleaned up the grounds.   I enjoy these days with my human.

Going through his notes and piles and piles and piles of paper, I found a great quote to share with you.

"A dog can express more with his tail in minutes 

than his owner can express with his tongue in hours."  Anonymous

"Charlie"

Hee, hee.  Nothing against my human, but there is a lot of truth in the quote- don't tell him. 

Do you have a favorite Quip, Quote, Thought, or Other Notable Saying that you'd like to share with me?  If so, please write it in the comment section below, I would love to hear from you. 

Friday’s Friends: Bess & Bailey

"Bess"

"Bailey"

Now, I have figured our why Dad didn't take me to the Green Team at Church last Saturday- I wondered what was up with that-   

My dad went to go take some pictures this weekend for the Cat Lady at a PetConnect Rescue Cat Adoption Event – yes guys I said cats and even I have to admit that these two are pretty cute (I bet even my dog pals would say they are too- the smart ones anyway). Bess & Bailey were rescued from a southern shelter and came up north when they were only 6 weeks old! Now these two sisters are in a foster home waiting to find the right person to give them a safe and loving forever home. And guess what…there’s a dog in their foster home and they all get along really well! If you’d like to learn more about Bess and Bailey please visit them on the PetConnect Rescue website: PetConnect Rescue -Adopt a Cat

Thanks to Cat Lady for sending us the information about these cats!!  Good luck Bess and Bailey!

Guest Blogger - 6 Subtle Signs that Should be Checked by your Veterinarian

It is not hard to notice when your dog is vomiting, or limping, or doing something obvious that you recognize as abnormal. Consider those symptoms that are barely noticeable, or don't look too abnormal. They can in fact be an indication that something serious is wrong and your dog needs prompt veterinary attention.

Staring Into Space
If your dog occasionally stares into nothingness, they may be having a seizure. Another unusual type of epileptic fit is snapping at imaginary flies. In both cases, if the seizures are frequent, they can be managed with proper medication.
A Soft Cough (particularly at night, and less interest in going for a walk)
The most observant owner can easily overlook a soft cough; however, it could be an early warning of heart failure. If diagnosed early and treated properly, your dog is likely to enjoy a normal life for quite some time.

Changes in Water Intake
It's not always obvious when your dog is making frequent trips to the water bowl until you notice you’re filling it for the third time, that day!  This is a common symptom in dogs of all ages, and can indicate that your four-legged family member has diabetes, hormonal disease or kidney disease. Again, an early diagnosis means a better outcome.

Changes in Weight and Body Condition
You often don't notice such changes yourself, but a friend or family member who doesn't see your dog every day may comment on it. Abdominal enlargement can be associated with a tumor affecting the internal organs.
On the other hand, weight loss can be due to a reduced ability to digest food, or even cancer. Your vet will need to do some tests to work out exactly what is happening with your dog, and start the appropriate treatment.
Grumpiness (can be associated with old age, but it also can result from pain)
If your sweet natured dog is suddenly growling at you when you cuddle him, you need to explore the reasoning. If he is hurting, he can be treated with prescription medication to ease the pain. Proper treatment can also prevent someone from a dog bite as the pooch tries to protect himself from a painful experience.

Lethargy
Again, this is a very vague, nonspecific symptom. Your dog just doesn't have the same interest in activities as he used to, and doesn't really want to get up off his bed. This isn't normal, and there are too many possible causes of this behavior to list. If the lethargy lasts longer than a few days, then it's well worth having your vet run some tests to see if there is anything wrong with your dog that isn't obvious on the outside.

You do need to find a balance between being oblivious to the subtle signs of illness in your dog, and rushing him to the vet whenever you notice anything unusual. It is far better to err on the side of caution. If you take your dog for a checkup and there is nothing wrong, that is much better than him not getting treatment if he really needs it.

Susan Wright, DMV has dedicated her professional life to caring for domestic animals as a veterinarian, author and dog training collar expert.

Dog Event: Bow Wow Luau at Hotel Monaco Alexandria This Thursday - June 21, 2012

Hey Humans!  Gotta share an event with you happening this week.  Sorry for the short notice but hopefully, you and your best friend can attend this and help raise funds for the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria!

Doggy Happy Hour to benefit the homeless animals

at the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter

WHAT: Canine Wingman Company is transforming Thursday’s Doggy Happy Hour at Hotel Monaco Alexandria into the Bow Wow Luau, a Hawaiian-themed fundraiser for the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. The AWLA operates the Vola Lawson Animal shelter and has served as a community resource and shelter for homeless animals since 1946.

WHO: The event is open to the public and dogs are encouraged to attend. Sponsor: Canine Wingman Company, Randy Plante, Founder Beneficiary: Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, Patrick Cole, Director of Communications and Outreach.

WHEN: Thursday, June 21, 2012, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

WHERE: Hotel Monaco Alexandria 480 King Street Alexandria, VA

VISUALS: Dozens of dogs and their human companions will be dressed up in Hawaiian outfits, with awards being given for the best costumes. Drink special include $2 beers and a special Hawaiian cocktail on sale for one night only. Leis and sunglasses can be purchased at the door and backdrop of palm trees and hula dancers will be available for photo opportunities. Dog treats will be prepared and sold by Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Bakery. The Bow Wow Luau is open to the media and photos will be available following the event.

About the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria:  The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is an independent, local, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Operating the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, an open-admission facility and Alexandria’s only animal shelter, the League provides care for more than 3,500 animals every year, including strays, lost pets, local wildlife, rescue animals, and animals surrendered by their owners. The AWLA is committed to ending animal homelessness, promoting animal welfare, and serving as an educational resource for the community.  For more information go to www.AlexandriaAnimals.org. 

Guest Blogger - Five Ways to Make Your Dogs Day

I have a guest blogger writing for me today-

Dogs are amazing companions. They are selfless creatures that enjoy being around their master. Dogs greet their master at the door, cuddle and love of their master and help keep their master in shape with daily exercise. They offer unconditional love and do so much for the person lucky enough to be their guardian. If you are lucky enough to own a dog, and enjoy the perks that come with owning a loyal, fun-loving pup – why not take the extra time to show how much you love and appreciate their companionship. Consider these five ways on how to make your dog’s day!

Massage:
There is no better way to communicate love than through touch. It helps build a deeper connection between two beings, and why not show your feelings to your dog with a thirty-minute scratch down. Dogs love a warm touch, and soothing massages – especially around their ears, belly and back. Take a little time, get on the floor and show your pup how much you appreciate him.

Special Treat:
Add a little sweetness to your dog’s regular routine with a special treat – and it doesn’t have to be junk food! Give your dog a break from ordinary dog food with a healthy veggie-fruit mix. Green leafy vegetables and fruits offer plenty of vitamins for your dog as well as antioxidants. You could even juice a concoction together and freeze it to make a pup Popsicle – perfect for a hot summer day! Dogs also love cold carrots to chew on!

Dog Park:
Just like kids, dogs love parks! It is a time for them to run around with other pups and expend a lot of energy!  Not only is the amount of exercise they receive a great reward, it is another way to continue your dog’s socialization with other dogs and people. Your dog will enjoy an hour or two in the great outdoors exploring, running and playing to his little doggy-heart’s delight!

Sprinkler Fun:
On a hot summer day, give your dog the enjoyment of cooling off as he runs around the backyard through a sprinkler! He’ll enjoy the cool splash of water on his coat as he takes turns getting drenched and shaking it off – all while soaking in some good vitamin D from the sun.

Wilderness Hike:
Take your dog on an hike through some local wilderness – whether it be a real mountain of just a hill or canyon – get into Mother Nature and see all the beauty she has to offer. Explore through trees, streams, plant life and even bugs – you both will enjoy the time exploring while getting some fresh air! Just make sure you and your dog have plenty of fresh water and snacks. It’s also a good idea to check out the route ahead of time if your dog isn’t as agile as he used to be!

Susan Wright, DMV has dedicated her professional life to caring for domestic animals as a veterinarian, author and dog training collar expert.

A Video from Big Bruno

My human buddy, Big Bruno, sent me another video he created about a special dog. I want to share it with you today.

The dog is available for adoption through the Montgomery County Humane Society, www.mchumane.org.

Happy Father's Day Dad!!

"Me and My Human!"

A Happy Father's day to my human dad.  He and mom took me into their home a few years from a rescue group and have given me a really spoiled life! So, Happy Father's Day Dad!!

I'd like to wish all of the Father's with Dog or Cat sons, a very happy Father's Day!!

Saturday's Success- A Day in the Life of Two Boxers

"On the Couch"

I lovc to read stories about dogs and their humans.  Today, I welcome guest blogger, Jonathan Rodriguez whose written about his life with two dogs.

"Our lives have been incredibly blessed and incrementally improved because of our sweet and lovable Boxers.  Gia & Capone, both females, are best friends:  They play all day, cuddle all night and wrestle every minute in-between.  

We take them everywhere!  One of our favorite places to go is to the local farmers market during the warm summer months. 


During our morning routine, Gia & Capone both lay on their comfortable dog beds, snuggling with one another.  As soon as I get my shoes out they are up as fast as flicking a light switch on. But that’s how it is with boxers. They only have two speeds: ON or OFF.  I can barely get my shoes on!  They bound back and forth with such excitement and happiness because they know that the day is finally beginning for them.  So, to say the least, I put my shoes on LAST, very last.


The front door opens and the dogs burst out to greet the day.  They literally run circles around me as I walk to the car.  Today, we are going to the local farmers market.  I open the back door and they leap in.  Once in the car Capone immediately starts barking in an unmistakable high pitch tone which she only does when she wants attention…or the windows open.  As automatic as the windows slide down, two dog heads stick out on both sides of the car.  They love taking everything in; whether it is the sun light, the cool morning air or the scent of flowers, cut grass or freshly tilled earth.


As the car gets going the anticipation and happiness crescendos in the form of flapping dog cheeks and ears.  Imagine a sky diver jumping from a plane: He gets going so fast his skin wrinkles and flaps in the wind; that is what their cheeks and ears do!


At the farmers market, Gia & Capone are only at a child’s eyelevel. They are often unseen by passers-by.  They take in an interesting perspective that can only be had by two excitable canines.  They put their noses to the ground and their ears to the wind as the park is filled with new, unfamiliar sounds, scents and people.  They are met with compliments from everyone that walk by but no one more than children.  These curious kids give love and adoration in forms of back scratches and head rubs while watchful parents look on with smiles and laughter.  Both Gia & Capone’s entire bodies shake uncontrollably as they lick the children’s hands and faces.  Their floppy ears contently lay back and their happiness is apparent through closed eyes and wagging tails.


After an entire afternoon of being worshiped by children and adults alike, Gia can’t wait for a good run in the dog park.  When we open the door it’s as if we had two race horses.  They bolt off one on the side of the other running with ease and grace.  They run and run and run.  When you think they are done they will start running again.  During their breaks they wrestle like two gigantic lions; nipping at the neck of the other in a playful manner while tackling and pushing one another to the ground. 


On the ride home you can’t tell where one dog ends and another begins.  They take up the whole back seat and they are asleep.  SUCCESS!  A tired dog is a happy dog.  They are in a deep sleep for hours and can’t be disturbed by anything; not even children pulling on their long ears.  They love every day to its fullest and live in the moment; all the time. 


I can’t imagine how dull life would be without our two girls Gia & Capone. They make our life full, tiring and absolutely worth living."

"The  Boxers"

An excellent story! Thanks Jonathan for sharing!!

Jonathan Rodriguez is an avid writer and blogger. He met his sweet heart, Savanna while studying at BYU. Together they have two beautiful boxers, Gia & Capone that they take on a long walk every day. He enjoys cooking meals for family and friends, riding his motorcycle and golfing.

Friday's Friend

YAY!! It's Friday!!! The time which comes when my human and I get to do a lot of stuff together.

I would like to introduce you to Friday's Friend this week who is Abe, a Hound mix.  Abe was rescued down south somewhere by a kindhearted animal welfare group last September.  Having so many Hounds available for rescue and adoption, Abe was bypassed repeatedly by potential adopters, spending many months in a kennel before PetConnect stepped in.

Abe is exceedingly gentle and affectionate, gets along with other dogs, and adores people of all ages. An active guy who needs space to run and daily exercise, Abe would be great in an active home with other dogs and kids to play with. He is heartworm negative, microchipped, neutered and up-to-date on shots. Just look at that face!!!

If you would like to know more about Abe, please complete an online application  at PetConnect Rescue/Adopt and Mike or Ann will contact you.

Cat Care Tips

My buddy sent me a cat care tip to pass on to you today-

"If your cat tends to wake you up at night, there's an app for that... no, wait... not an app (I wish), but a fix.

Exercise her morning and evening. A couple of hours after her evening exercise, feed her. Cats that are exercised and then fed right before their humans go to bed tend to be less likely to disturb their humans at night.

If she calls for you at night to play with her, don't. Don't get up, don't speak at all, just ignore her. In the morning when you get up, give her attention and exercise her. After a while she'll fall into that routine and stop bugging you at night."

Thanks to Cat Lovers Only and our friend Kurt Schmitt for this tip.

How To Choose A Dog From A Rescue Centre

I have a guest blogger with me today from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a UK charity promoting the care and welfare of animals.

If you’ve decided to welcome a dog into your family and have also decided to choose one who is currently residing in a rescue centre then first of all – congratulations!  You’ve made a good choice – choosing one of the many rescue dogs for adoption is the right thing to do.  There are more dogs in the UK (and US) than there are responsible owners and whenever people choose to buy dogs from specialist breeders the problem will continue to increase.

"Two Puppies"

But how do you choose from the many dogs housed in rescue centres?  The average person looking for a rescue dog for adoption will be a family member looking for a dog who will fit into their lives and home.  There are many dogs awaiting adoption who simply won’t fit that mould – they need extra time, special attention and training to be cared for properly.

The important thing to remember is that you have to go to the rescue centre with a pretty good idea of what sort of dog you want before you get there.  It’s just too easy to see all the dogs and fall for their sad little faces and big puppy eyes and then end up with a dog whose temperament or behaviour just doesn’t fit with your family or home situation. 

You can search online for specific breeds that crop up in rescue centres quite frequently – you don’t have to choose a mongrel or mixed-breed dog just because you’re choosing one from a shelter or animal charity.  You can also phone round the local rescue centres and ask about specific breeds (or particular sizes or temperaments) and ask for your name and number to be taken in case a suitable dog becomes available. 

Check the rescue centre’s ‘return policy’ – a reputable rescue centre will accept the return of a dog at any time during its life for any reason.  You shouldn’t expect to get any money back, but it is a good indication of a reputable shelter that they should be willing to accept long-term responsibility for the dogs that they arrange to be re-homed.

As part of the adoption process, you should be able to see the dog you are considering adopting away from the shelter’s enclosures.  Dogs can behave very differently inside enclosed spaces than they do outside and with several people present and it’s important that you choose a dog that you know will suit the life you have planned for them.

Check whether the dogs at the rescue centre are tested for temperament and behaviour and whether a history is available for the dog you are interested in (why was the dog taken into the rescue centre?  Is there a history of biting?  Has the dog lived with children previously and, if so, of what age were those children?). 

If you don’t have a particular breed in mind, then at least have a type of behavior in mind – do you want an energetic dog, a lap dog, a dog that will enjoy playing with the family?  Trust your instincts that are based on clear research and consideration and enjoy the benefits of giving a rescue dog a home for life.

You may want to look into pet insurancequotes (RSPCA Pet Insurance) to make sure that you are covered in case of illness with your dog.  The RSPCA is a UK charity promoting the care and welfare of animals. RSPCA pet insurance will look after your dog in the case of an accident, and 20% of the policy premium goes straight back into the charity.

Pet Photo Calendar Contest Showcases Local Pets While Raising Money for Homeless Animals

"A Photo Competition?  I'll pose!!"

Uh oh!  A pet photo contest!  Oh no, that means my human will be following me everywhere I go so he can catch me in some cute pose and photograph it.  But, I am on to him- once he gets all set, I move.   I love it- I think he's caught on to me though because he just gives me this look!

Here's the details of this really cool photography contest:

The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) is once again holding the annual Pet Photo Calendar Contest to benefit the homeless animals of the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter. The 2013 Calendar Contest, launched on June 1, allows pet owners to upload photos of their pets online and solicit votes for their companion animal. At the end of the voting period, the pet with the most votes wins the grand prize of a professional photo shoot with a pet photographer and the coveted cover photo on the AWLA's 2013 Calendar. Each vote costs $1 and all proceeds are used by the League to provide shelter, care, and find permanent homes for thousands of animals each year.

Between June 1 and July 31, registration and voting takes place online at Alexandria Animals Calendar Contest. Votes can also be submitted to the League by mail or over the phone. In addition to the grand prize, ten runners-up receiving the highest number of votes will be featured in the calendar as pets-of-the-month. Pets that receive 250 votes or more but are not in the top ten will be entered in a wildcard drawing for the remaining two monthly placements. All pets that are registered by July 31 will have their photo included in the calendar, and all registrants will receive a complimentary copy of the 2013 Calendar.

The AWLA's 2013 Calendar will be sold at the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter and a wide range of businesses in Northern Virginia beginning in November of 2012. Last year's Calendar Contest raised $23,000 for the homeless animals in need. More than 730 copies of the calendar were sold, raising and additional $9,750 for the League. Acting Executive Director Mary Beth Mount says, “The Calendar Contest is something the League and our supporters look forward to every year. It's a fun way for animal lovers to show off their adorable pets while supporting an important cause. We especially enjoy seeing the AWLA alumni that take part in the contest, and it's always interesting to see the friendly competition that develops when several pets are vying to be our next cover model.”

Last year's Calendar Contest winner, Bailey, is a Hurricane Gustav survivor from Waveland, Mississippi. His adopters, Suzanne and Trey Goulden, were thrilled to learn that Bailey had won the contest but were slightly apprehensive about the professional photo shoot. “At first, I was a little nervous,” says Mrs. Goulden, “because Bailey does not like to have his picture taken. But the photo session went really well and the photographer captured several great shots.” When the calendar was printed with Bailey’s smiling face on the cover, it didn’t take long for him to become a local celebrity. Goulden says, “It was really exciting to walk down the street with Bailey and have neighbors recognize him from the cover. The calendar was even sold at his 4101 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22304 | 703.746.4774 | Alexandria Animals

"LET ME GET MY HAIR DONE FIRST!!!"

National "No-Kill" Day

Today is a special day- one that is near and dear to my heart.  As a rescued dog saved from being killed at a shelter, it's important to me to share this.

I was a stray when a shelter took me in.  However, my days were numbered and very limited- they didn't have the resources to keep me forever. My new human and I are forever grateful and thankful that volunteers with PetConnect Rescue, Potomac, MD and Pilots N Paws came to my rescue.  They arranged for me to come to Potomac, Maryland where I met my new human and the rest of the story is history.  And, of course, I learned to write this blog!!

National "No-Kill" Day is when Animal Control Agencies, Shelters, and Rescues throughout the United Sates are saying YES to LIFE, and are not killing any animals in their facilities on this landmark day!

Please join us in celebrating "National No Kill Day" by supporting your local Shelters and Rescues and take ACTION for ANIMALS!  How? You can adopt or foster a dog.  If you can do either, how about supporting them financially and/or volunteering?

If you are interested in becoming involved in the No-Kill Movement, please visit their website at 
www.nokilladvocacycenter.org?  If you are a social media type (which I know I am) you can visit their page at www.facebook.com/NOKILLNATION.

There are many success stories like mine which have made a tremendous impact on humans and animals alike!   I hope you'll do what you can to enable more successes!!!  

Quips, Quotes, Thoughts and Other Notable Sayings

"Glorious Sunshine"

I was doing some reading while my human was working with the Green Team on Saturday-he loves spending time weeding the gardens at church- and I found a cool quote to share with you this morning.

"Nobody can fully understand the meaning of love unless he is owned by a dog."

-Gene Hill.

Summer Olympicats Adoption Event Helps Homeless Cats Find Permanent Homes

"Aren't I just the Cutest Cat?"

There is a really cool cat event going on this month I'd like to let you know about.  Yes, I said cat.... my mom human loves them so occasionally I will paw a blog post about them.  And, of course my friend "The Cat Lady" appreciates it!

The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA), Virginia, is celebrating Adopt-A-Cat Month by hosting the Summer Olympicats Adoption Event at the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter. The goal of the event is to find permanent, loving homes for as many adoptable cats as possible during the month of June. Throughout the entire month, the League is waiving all adoption fees on cats ages two and older. All standard application processes and screening procedures remain in place.

The League encourages prospective adopters, first-time cat owners, current cat owners, and all animal lovers to meet the world-class “cathletes” at the shelter. The friendly staff is available to help adopters select the winning cats for their homes. The adoptable cats include medal-winners in the De-Cat-Alon, High Jump, Scratch & Stretch, Cat-Napping, Synchronized Purring, Rhythmic Gymnastics, and other Olympicat Events.

Mary Beth Mount, Acting Executive Director at the AWLA, says, “We have been fortunate enough to witness the 'cathletic' prowess of our cats for several months as they trained for the Summer Olympicats. Now, we're helping our cats go for the gold and find the loving homes they deserve. It's never been easier for adopters to come to the shelter and leave with a winner.” Director of Adoption Programs Kathy Vellenga adds, “All adopters must still complete the comprehensive application process, but our hope is that the Summer Olympicats Adoption Event dramatically changes the lives of dozens of cats who might otherwise reside in our shelter for months before getting adopted.”

The Vola Lawson Animal Shelter is located at 4101 Eisenhower Avenue in Alexandria, VA. The shelter is open for adoptions and animal viewing from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, and from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. The shelter is closed to the public on Wednesdays. The Summer Olympicat Adoption Event runs through June 30 and adopters can view all adoptable cats online at www.AlexandriaAnimals.org (Alexandria Animal Welfare) or call 703.746.4774 for more information.

About the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is an independent, local, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Operating the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, an open-admission facility and Alexandria’s only animal shelter, the League provides care for more than 3,500 animals every year, including strays, lost pets, local wildlife, rescue animals, and animals surrendered by their owners. The AWLA is committed to ending animal homelessness, promoting animal welfare, and serving as an educational resource for the community.  www.AlexandriaAnimals.org

Friday's Friend

"Rex"

Happy Friday!!!! I know if you have to go to the office today, you probably are really happy today is Friday- my human is so funny- you'd think it was Christmas!!  I love it because it means I get more time with my humans!

I have a friend for you to meet this week.  His name is Rex.  He is 1 1/2 years old, just a youngster, and is looking for his forever home.  

"Rex in the Backyard"

From the photo, he looks like he could be a lot of fun.  He's weighs about 30 pounds is house trained, crated trained, neutered and up to date on shots. He is great with all people and with dogs that are submissive.

"Rex on Couch"

"Rex Relaxing"

If you are interested in meeting Rex, visit the PetConnect Rescue website at www.petconnectrescue.org for more information.  Tell this Noah sent you!!!

Recycled, Recyling and Love

"Max A Pooch!"

I want to introduce you to a friend I made a few weeks ago. His name is “Max A Pooch” who is known as the “throwaway” or “recycled dog” because he’s a rescued dog that puts litter in its place.

I caught up with Max A Pooch through one of those online social networks, but please don’t tell my human. I found his story to be interesting because we have something in common. We’re both dogs whose original owners gave up on us and left us at a kill shelter. Fortunately, for us, we had other humans who took us in. Anyway, let me step aside and let Max share his story.

“Thanks. I am a recycled dog. If I hadn't been adopted I would have been killed and thrown in a landfill with little more thought than a discarded bottle or can,” Max begins.

He continues, “I was a mere puppy of six months when my previous owners turned me into the local animal control facility. My short life would have ended if the staff of a no-kill shelter named ‘Orphans of The Storm’ hadn't rescued me!”

“Millions of dogs are not as fortunate as I am and must be put down (that is human talk for killed) each year. Thousands of others linger year after year at the no kill shelters that saved them, because there is no one who will adopt them. Whether you want a purebred dog or a mixed breed, animal shelters such as Orphans of the Storm, are excellent places to begin your search.

Despite what some people may say, up to 25 percent of the dogs placed by shelters such as Orphans of the Storm are purebreds. It may take some time and patience to find a purebred of the breed for which you are looking, but adopting a dog shouldn't be an impulse move. As you search you may find that a mixed breed catches your eye. That's okay. Whether a dog is a purebred with a pedigree or a mixed breed of unknown origins, the dog doesn't care.

What really counts is if you and the dog are a match made for a forever home. If it is, such a match you will have done a wonderful thing and recycled a dog and given it a new chance at having a happy and productive life,” Max A Pooch finishes.

"Max A Pooch Putting Litter in its Place"

What I find fascinating about Max A Pooch is that he does what most humans won't. He picks up litter and puts it in its place. He demonstrates that reducing litter is so easy even a pooch can do it. By doing so, he raises awareness of the plight of millions of throwaway dogs and other pets that are euthanized annually!

When Max A Pooch appears live on TV, in print, blogs, web sites or his website www.maxapooch.com he is a reminder that people who discard pets and who discard litter have a common trait...a lack of a sense of responsibility. The result is that annually more than 4 million cats and dogs are put down each year and $15 billion is spent in the US to pick up litter. That's a powerful message!

Max A Pooch is in the running for an award for his efforts too. You can show your support for Max’s work by going to his website and voting for him to be hero……. http://www.herodogawards.org/vote/?nominee=61639598

How to Train your Puppy in Housebreaking

I've got a guest blogger, Richie Richardson, with me today- he's writing about Puppy Training.

Puppies are adorable. With their presence, they make everyone happy. But if your pup hasn’t learned housebreaking then it will be more of a trouble than a lovable pet. Housebreaking is not an easy task. It requires patience and an eagle eye. Below are some tips to train your pup in housebreaking.

"Rex"

Keep a Close watch on your pup:

At the beginnings, pups are unsure of where to relieve themselves. Any place irrespective of whether is clean or filled with dirt will be perfect for them. The best way is to watch them closely for the first few months. Of course, be prepared to clean and mop. No matter how careful you are, a pup will pee in the house at first.

Catch them in action:

There is no point in scolding a pup after it has done its job. You need to catch him in action. By doing so, the pup is able to relate with the action. Several pet owners scold their pet after it has peed in the house. Such actions will have no effect on the pup. Hence, you need to catch them in action. A stern ‘No’ will pass the message to the pup that the action is undesirable.

Leash them:

After a month or two, have your pet leashed. Take them out every few hours. When they have relieved themselves, quickly bring them in. If not, then tie them and take back again later until they have relieved themselves. Through this way, the pup will know outdoor is meant for relieving.

Communication:

Continuing the above process, your pup will know what to do. It will start to communicate with you. There are different ways of communication. Without no reason the pup will whine. In some other cases, it will bark looking at you. However depending upon the breed there may be other indications. When you find such actions quickly take it out. At first, it will be hard to understand what your pup is trying to communicate. With patience you will come to understand your pet.

Do not shout:

Never shout at your pet. Your pet will take that as a compliment. As mentioned above, just say ‘No Doggy’ or ‘Bad Doggy’ with a stern voice. When it does its job outside the house, compliment it with a pat or a treat.

Leash it outdoor until it learns housebreaking:

Never leash them inside your house until it has completely learned housebreaking. Have them leashed next to your door or in the garden (from where it can feel your presence). In most cases, it will use the outdoor. Continue this for a month. Note: leash your pup at the same place so that it can relate the place and do its job.

About today's guest blogger:

Richie Richardson is full-time blogger and writes on pet training.

Looking for Dog Services?

My human lets me surf the internet after I do some writing every once in awhile.  Of course, he always makes sure the parental controls are set and working. I don't know why he does that, but since it makes him happy......  

Anyway, I came across a website that looks really great!!   It's at Red Dog Classifieds!  A pawsome resource for dogs and dog owners -you can go to the site, click on your state- check out the dropdown menu on the right- then look through the listings of products and services.

While I was looking around, I found my humans photography ad so I could get a great pic of myself for the lassies, a groomer and all kinds of great products.

Be patient with them as they work to create their website and attract more businesses.  They are fairly new so check back with them often.

If you own a dog-friendly business or sell a product for dogs, you might check into advertising with them so we can all know about you!