We are at Brockville Hyundai tomorrow! Saturday, September 14th!
 
Car Wash/BBQ from 10 AM – 2 PM!
770 Stewart Blvd, Brockville
 
*No appointment necessary!
*There shall also be some items for sale!

The last two years were chilly, and damp!
 
Tomorrow promises to be glorious! 26 degrees with a lot of beautiful sunshine!
 
*I will also be collecting Empties, Pinesol, Fabric Softener, Garbage Bags, Laundry Detergent plus Paper Towels*
 
I am sending a plea to have a few more Volunteers come and lend a hand……
 
We are raising much needed funds for Mr. Ernie & Miss Story – the most updated invoice and we are just under $7,400 owing on Vet Bills at this time between both of these cuties.
 
Mr. Knox also has amassed a new bill – allergies.
 
Miss Story shall also have a very exciting announcement to make shortly too! Thanks to Alison G. for taking this lovely photo of her!

BHRR EVENTS

NOTICE: UPCOMING BHRR EVENTS:

We are working on a silent auction to raise much-needed funds to pay for Miss Leah’s and Mr. Ernie’s vet bills.
If you have any items you may like to donate, please email

1) Ren’s Pet Depot – Baseline – Saturday, September 21st
Time: 9 AM – 3 PM
1385 Baseline Rd Unit 3, Ottawa, ON K2C 3G1
Nails, Anal Glands, Ear Cleanings, some merchandise for sale, some baked goodies for sale
**Must be able to hold your own pet

2) Saturday, November 30th – 9 AM – 3 PM – Pet Valu, Brockville
2539 Parkedale Ave A3, Brockville, ON K6V 3H2
Some Merchandise for Sale, Raffle Basket & Bake Sale

3) Fall Event: Paint Your Partner FUNraiser for Ottawa Rabbit Rescue & BHRR – Paint your friend, spouse, bf/gf, family member
Date, Time & Location TBD
*A fun plus hilarious night to free paint, then reveal and give your masterpiece to your friend/spouse, bf/gf, or family member!
*Silent auction and draw prizes, too

4) ONGOING – On February 21st, 2013, I received a most delightful and touching email from a woman named Allie MacAlister that is so very active in helping others

She is extremely talented and more lovely than any words can ever be put down on paper and she has wonderfully surprised me with the very stunning and unique artful creation of an Irish Wolfhound, inspired by our Bunker Dude. She is calling it ‘Art For A Cause’.  

The Wolfhound Cù Sìth

10% of sales of her products will come to BHRR!

*You can purchase t-shirts, mugs, mousepads, totes, greeting cards and SO much more! She will be adding products regularly.

The Wolfhound Cù Sìth

A huge thank you being sent out to Kelly P. once again for the food for Miss Story! 
 
So humbled and thankful!
 
This is Miss Story in her temp foster home after she was busted out of ISO jail at EVC when she was healthy enough to be released!
 
Puppies surviving parvo is truly a miracle many times over….
 
Her final bills were over $6,000 and more to come with her vaccines, spay etc.
 
We already microchipped her.

Mr. Ernie, the DDB is at EVC for his next surgeries today.
 
For his eyes again and the removal of a rectal polyp.
 
Will update as we can.
 
His rehab journey has been a long and expensive one, yet step by step we will get there…..

I am behind posting about Miss Story!
 
Here is a video of her playing with a toy I bought and the wee gift basket(in two dog bowls) I put together to give to her foster mama once we busted her out of isolation jail!
 
So many more posts to make yet going to try and keep it chronological for her fans and blog.
 
I want to shout out thanks to Kelly P. for also buying her an 8 kg bag of PVD Essential Care large breed puppy kibble. 
 
We have had $1,770.90 donated/raised to date & her bills to date are over $6,500.
 
Donations to her care can be made via email transfer or PayPal to contactbhrr@gmail.com or you can call Eagleson Veterinary Clinic to make a donation over the phone or even send an email transfer direct to them for Miss Story.
 
This week, Mr. Ernie is heading in for his next eye surgeries and rectal polyp.
 
I keep plugging away as I can from my own pocket by picking up extra shifts as I can.
 
We have been able to only have two fundraisers this spring/summer and two more are scheduled for the fall.
 
I am still thinking of some others to do for her and Mr. Ernie, and Miss Jamila etc. 
 
From my home to all of our friends, family and supporters, the best of good night wishes are being sent.
 

BHRR Animals Available For Adoption

This is a blog post, updated regularly as to who is available for adoption and the ‘quick’ status of others not yet available for adoption.
NOTE: This blog post is on each of the dogs’ individual pages.
All of our available dogs can also be found on our PetFinder website.
*To read a dog’s blog, scroll to the very bottom of that dog’s individual page and read upwards, skipping over any posts such as fundraiser posts. They will answer most of your questions re: age, history etc.*

**NOTE: As of December 1st, 2016; BHRR shall no longer be responding to any inquires to adopt. We are following the lead of other r/q organizations and ONLY completed adoption applications submitted to the BHRR BOD shall be considered/responded to.**

BHRR is a federally registered NP organization and requires an application/contract to be filled out, personal references including a vet reference if applicable and a home visit to be done before being approved to adopt.

We also require that at the time of meeting any BHRR animal (after completing the application process up to that point) that the whole family + any other currently owned animals are present for the mandatory home-visit.

BHRR only places per best/right matched personality fit.

We also require that within four months of having adopted your new addition that at least one full round/session of group classes of obedience (they can range from 6-18 weeks) must be started and upon completion; proof (registration + completion) must be submitted to BHRR’s attention at BHRR and with having your signature on the adoption application/contract; you will be in a legal breach of your contract should this not be done. The animal involved will have to be returned promptly & safely to BHRR at your own expense.

 

BHRR’s Albar(M) – AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION SINCE October 25th, 2022 – *LabX

BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie(F) – AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION SINCE October 25th, 2022 – *LabX

BHRR’s Knox(M) – AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION SINCE July 10th, 2023-*Bouvier 

BHRR’s Leah(F) – AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION SINCE May 4th, 2024 – *Great Dane –PENDING ADOPTION SINCE July 27th, 2024

BHRR’s Ernie(M) – NOT YET AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION -*Dogue De Bordeaux

BHRR’s Story(F) – NOT YET AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION -*Yellow Lab

Halo(F) – NOT YET AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION -*NewfX

The home-visit to determine if this was a right matched personality fit home for Mr. Knox was last night.
 
Unfortunately, this is not the right home for BHRR’s Knox. A determination that was mutual from myself, his foster plus the home.
 
Mr. Knox, we remain patient!
 
When we are entrusted with these amazing creatures, we must do right by them.
 
We are not sure why many groups would rather flip dogs, charging exorbitant adoption fees, not have proper screening or care for the well being of the dogs they have in their care, not properly vet or allow dogs to decompress, nor with regards to setting not only the dogs yet adoptive homes up for success over failure.
 
As I have said many times over the past almost 30 years, a dog coming into rescue once is one time too many.
 
AND to also re-affirm, that we do not keep the non refundable application fees – a mere $20 – on applications sent our way unless we reach an advance stage of the application process.
 
AND to also state again, we are also not receiving hundreds of applications daily for the dogs. We have received only four applications for Mr. Knox, and kept only one non refundable application fee.
 
The other three applications failed their vet references. We are very clear on our adoption applications about the proper proactive and preventative vet care needed, yet we still receive applications that do/have not adhered to doing vaccines etc.
 
To also re-state, our application process is thorough and detailed for a reason. That reason is for the dogs. We are responsible to do right by them, and shall continue to do so.
 
As I have said many times over the decades, responsible/quality rescue is hard, damn hard and the toll on emotions, relationships, health and finances is all too harsh. The sacrifices are real.
 
I do not even own a winter coat or boots.
 
Before judging, people should really try walking in our shoes…. 
 
No one more than his foster mama and I would have loved to have had this be the right home for Mr. Knox. It is not.
 
We now look forward to the next day of adventures for him and building upon his resume! 
 
You are safe with us, and we are committed to you for life. 
 

BHRR’s Knox is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION once more!

The foster home and I agree as do the home that BHRR’s Mr. Knox is not the right matched personality fit for him

Mr. Knox you are perfect in all of your imperfections, which is very few, and your right home is out there! We are not desperate to place our dogs, do not flip dogs, and we need to ensure that we do not set our dogs or a home up for failure. 

As I have always said, a dog coming into rescue once, is one time too many. We need to do right by our dogs. 

We also wish this home nothing but the best as they search for a new addition meant for them. Thank you to them for the generous donation of a bag of dog food for BHRR’s Knox too.

Thanks to Mr. Knox’s foster home in making the drive!

I took BHRR’s Knox in my car after the home-visit – to have the opportunity to get my hands on him per his foster’s request and my wish too! – and followed the foster to their hotel, and while Mr. Knox made three small squeaks, and panted some – he did have a busy night, he was a perfect travel companion. We passed cars, cars passed us, we passed two bicycles with them having a dog trotting beside them, numerous people walking and talking, people sitting on chairs on their lawns, so many red lights, and stop signs, and BHRR’s Knox just soaked up the scenery. He also had zero reaction to emergency lights or sirens. 

In the hotel parking lot – beside a busy Lone Star – people in cars/trucks driving by or sitting in their vehicles with music playing, people walking/talking and laughing loudly, a few with pets, and BHRR’s Knox once again just soaked everything up – stood patiently while his foster mama and I conversed, and was quiet plus acted like a gentleman.

He had a adventurous trip, and I wish him and his foster mama a sound nights sleep, and safe travels back to their home. For me, I reside much closer, and was home within 1.5 hours. 

I just cashed in another $19.50 in Empties to help Miss Story! 
 
Thank you to the generous soul who dropped them off to my donation shed! 
 
Piece by piece, her bills shall be paid thanks to her village!
 
Bills: $6,500+
Donations To Date: $1,770.90


For full disclosure, a copy of her billing to date is posted.

Story’s Angels:
Laura S.
Alex & Karen T.
Lynn F. – Costco Dog Bed – July 23rd
Lucie L.
Janie W.(BHRR’s Simon’s Mama)
Stephanie B.(BHRR’s Keg’s Mama)
Erin M – Empties
Kelly P – Collar/Leash
Anonymous – Empties
Anonymous – Empties
BARK Bash 
Kelly P – 8 kg bag of PVD Essential Care Large Breed Kibble

We have a home-visit date for BHRR’s Mr. Knox, the Bouvier!
 
August 6th. 
 
If all goes well, this home will be approved to adopt him.
 
I will update as I can. 
 
From my home to all of our friends, family and supporters, good night wishes are being sent!

Another photo!
 
Possible Newf/with Pyr or a poorly bred newf…
 
36 pounds at 10-12 weeks of age…

Another $14.10 in Empties returned for Miss Story!
 
Thank you to whomever dropped Empties in my donation shed! 
 
Her bills are $6,500 and counting.
 
Her face when I told her ‘no’ for wanting to chew her IV lines! Sassy pants! 
 
Please consider saving your Empties to help Miss Story. 

BHRR’s Miss Leah is moving under a PENDING ADOPTION! 

This will also be a transitional adoption process for Miss Leah, as based upon the present circumstances of what we strongly believe to be her right matched forever loving home, her final announcement shall not be made for a period of time.

10-12 week Newf female, possible mix in there….
 
Terrible photo…have asked for better.
 
She is a love with all! Great with Kids – presently in a foster with two small children (3 & 5) with the shelter.
 
Goofy, friendly, playful and a clumsy giant floof!
 
Wonderful with other dogs.
 
**We are going to call her Halo – Thanks again Charlotte for the suggestion!**

Another photo of Miss Story!

Donations to her Vet Bills – Close to $6,000 can be made via Email Transfer or PayPal to contactbhrr@gmail.com

She also needs:
PVD Essential Care Large Breed Puppy Kibble
PVD Essential Care Puppy Canned Food
Giant Sized KONG Toys, Rope Toys, Tire Toys etc.
Treats – Mini Zuk’s Salmon or Rabbit
Pinesol
Garbage Bags – all sizes
Paper Towels

Please consider assisting us to help her!

Just returned $29.30 in Empties! Thanks again Erin M.
 
Every bit will help Miss Story!!
 

So, as always, full disclosure….
 
I put the $1,100 donated to date on to the bill for Miss Story today.
 
Her bills are now over $5,000 and I will post that update shortly….
 
I am now on my way to cash in some Empties donated so generously by Erin M.
 
I will then be heading into three very long overnight shifts and shall update as I can…
 
Thank you to everyone for their consideration to her lifesaving vet care bills etc. 
 

Copy of Invoice To Date

BHRR’s Miss Story UPDATE

Bills as of 2:46 pm July 21st: $4,364.79
Donations To Date: $1,100


For full disclosure, a copy of her billing to date is posted.

Story’s Angels:
Laura S.
Alex & Karen T.
Lynn F. – Costco Dog Bed – ETA July 23rd
Lucie L.
Janie W.(BHRR’s Simon’s Mama)
Stephanie B.(BHRR’s Keg’s Mama)

I went in yesterday afternoon and dropped off two toys and a large lamb stuffie for her to have.

She began eating a bit throughout the night yet it is greatly decreased.

She remains being fed through her NG tube plus getting some medications through that means.

Her comfort level appears good, so after I gave her latest dose of methadone, the plan is to discontinue it to see how she does.

She blew one of her catheters.

Her blood glucose levels have remained stable – lowest was just over 5 mmol/L and maintaining around 7.1 mmol/L.

She is on two anti-nausea medications.

She has lost weight – 6.46 kgs (14.2 pounds).

I have not seen her drink yet she remains on IV fluids for meds and hydration.

She has become a huge staff fav! What is not to love about that smoochable squishy face!

We are starting to see signs of her puppy personality coming out! 

We are doing repeat bloodwork in addition to her blood glucose levels.

Her PCV(packed cell volume) has remained steady in the mid 30s. 35-37%.

When she puts her head on my shoulder and snuggles, I tell her that we are doing all that we can for her, and that her village is surrounding her with so much support!

I put in an order for the largest bag of PVD large breed essential care puppy and two cases of the wet.

I am heading back in today to visit.

What we still need:

1) large and giant sizes appropriate toys for her. XL giant stuffies to act as a surrogate mama/littermates

2) Pinesol, paper towels and garbage bags – all sizes

3) A special collar and leash to call her very own – Wiggle Bumz (Jennifer Lindsay) has amazing ones. She has Facebook page and an Etsy store

12-14” size collar, 0.5” width and a quick release buckle

4) Please consider donating your Empties – either returning them yourself or dropping them off.

5) a copy of her current billing to date is attached below to remain giving full disclosure and being accountable. I am not seeking to fundraise more than what is needed.

Donations can be made via email transfer or PayPal to contactbhrr@gmail.com

OR direct to Eagleson Veterinary Clinic 613-383-8381 – ‘Story’ under Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services.

They can take credit card over the phone or email transfer to eaglesonvc@gmail.com or in person they will take cash, debit or credit card.

5) We need fundraising ideas for her!

As always, I have zero pride when it comes to begging for the animals and I sincerely appreciate any and all considerations for the assistance! 

Invoice documentation at 2:36 pm on July 20th & as of 8:47 pm on July 20th, billing was: $2,994.53

This is BHRR’s ‘Story’.

She is an 8-week-old purebred Yellow Lab that was going to be euthanized due to a positive test for Parvo.

Unfortunately, the home could not take on the cost of treatment. I know that I am a broken record stating this many times over the past almost 30 years, yet there are so many lovely homes that have to let go of their animals, and I am not going to judge.

Judging does not benefit anyone and can only harm. It could make other homes not wish to surrender their pets, seeing animals put to sleep over being assisted.

While this home has only had the puppy two days, love knows no timeline. So, I also do not judge in this area. I fall in love daily with the animals I am entrusted with via rescue and at my work as a Veterinary Technician. Surrendering a cherished pet is one of the most selfless things anyone could possibly do as their love is deeper than wanting to be selfish.

Therefore, as always, we will take a zero-tolerance approach to having people point fingers or blame.

In this case, the backyard breeder also failed this home. They did not stand by or support this home, and how many more puppies and dogs will be affected by parvo from this backyard breeder?

The Vet discussed surrendering to a rescue.
The compassion is endless at so many Vet Hospitals when it comes to advocating for the animals and supporting clients.

Unfortunately, all rescues contacted could not step up to assist, and I was reached out to by the charge on the floor.

When it is said that timing is everything, it is. I was literally on my way to go to bed to get my few hours of sleep before heading into my next overnight shift.

The bottom line for me was that we have seen far too many puppies, dogs, and horses over the past seven months, in particular, put to sleep due to lack of space, finances, food, state of illness, injury, and/or behaviour, etc.

My heart plus soul, at this moment in time, could not bear to see yet another…..

I was clear in my communication that should a r/q group be able to assist, please let her go to them, and if not, I would bring her into BHRR. My o/s form was emailed to ensure that she was safe.

I committed, said that we would find a way, and had a truly awful and fitful less than four hours sleep. I worried so much about her, and had nightmares about the thousands of others that we could not assist since 1996. Reputable/quality rescue is not easy, very few of us are operate gold-standard organizations as long as BHRR has.

When I checked my phone, my heart just burst into a thousands pieces of thankfulness. I had not one, not two, not three yet four amazing offers to temp foster her. I remain deeply grateful to them.

My heart also burst with such relief knowing that Miss Story was still alive and beginning what will be a fight literally of her life. YET, she will not be alone in this. I will find a way to fundraise for her. I will do what it takes to ensure that she has the best opportunities to become healthy and grow up to be the dog that she deserves to be!

I also changed her name to ‘Story’. As those who follow BHRR and have for some time, I ensure that every name has deep meaning for our dogs. I am determined that Story will have many amazing chapters and adventures/experiences to add to her story to live a long, healthy, incredible life. I am also determined that she will be a success story.

2024 has been as rough and difficult a year as possible, and Miss Story will speak to my own personal/professional story/journey, and that I am also a survivor and determined.

If you have read my Gwennie novel this far  – I am now going to beg/plead and grovel for any consideration for the following for Miss Story:

1) A dog bed to call her own – she is wee now yet she is very much the English Lab and shall grow up big. Her present weight is 6.8 kgs(14.96 pounds).

2) She will need her own special collar and leash – we greatly support Wiggle Bumz collars – Jennifer Lindsay She will need a 12-14″ collar to start.

3) She will need appropriate large puppy-sized toys, treats and some XL stuffies – I am bringing her a XL stuffie today as a surrogate littermate, mama. She has a small one given so kindly by a fellow colleague of mine to have in the meantime. Pet Valu has some great items, as does Amazon, and both deliver!

My address & I will ensure that the foster gets the items:
Miss Story
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

4) She will need PVD Essential Care Puppy – Large breed for kibble and 2 cases of the wet to start. This is bought at a Vet Hospital

5) We will need Puppy pads, Pinesol, paper towels, and garbage bags

6) Please consider donating your Empties – either returning them yourself or dropping them off – I can be emailed contactbhrr@gmail.com if you wish to make arrangements in the Kanata or Kemptville areas to meet up

7) I am attaching her billing as of yesterday afternoon. I am also going to post the total as of last night(8:47 PM) and promise to update regularly. I believe in full disclosure and accountability and am not seeking financial donations to come in more than what we will need for her.

She will require all rounds of vaccines, and more de-worming – we started Friday, meds, exams, bloodwork, to be spayed and microchipped. I do not skip or cut any corners with what our dogs require.

Donations can be made via PayPal or email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com

Donations can be made directly to Eagleson Veterinary Clinic – Story under Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services. (613) 383-8381 – they will take Credit Card over the phone, cash, debit and credit in person

8) Fundraising ideas for her!

Besides lifesaving medications, round-the-clock ISO care, and doing regular bloodwork, I have had her ears and eyes addressed. Her ears had some bacteria and were cleaned plus her eyes were a bit swollen.

She has two catheters – one specific for the regular blood-draws so that she is not poked continuously and one for her fluids – she was very dehydrated, plus IV medications.

She has a NG tube in for feedings and in being given other medications.

I did want blood glucose done on her, and the first one was 7.8 mmol/L

Sorry for the long Gwennie Novel!

I was able to hold, feed, and clean up after her myself yesterday afternoon after my long overnight shift, as I had outpatient appointments and two surgeries. My heart is so wrapped up in her paws!

I am not so proud as to beg or plead for what the dogs need. She is the first dog of 2024 that we have been able to assist due to a lack of fosters, funds, etc.

She is what we are here to do, and please consider being part of her village and community to help us help her!

As of 8:47 pm last night(July 20th) her vet bills: Current Amount: $2,994.53

Donations To Date: $0.00
 

Two more photo’s.

***SAFE***
 
This is her!
 
She is barely 8 weeks old, actually.
 
She was at the vet and would have been put to sleep if no rescue could step up. We just could not let that happen.
 
We will have a lot to figure out with fundraising, yet look at her!!! 
 
We will be changing her name…so stay tuned!
 
So grateful to so many for reaching out to offer to temp foster!
 
Thanks, Brandy, for stepping up!
 
Thanks also to Angie, Lily, and Kelly! For their offers! 
 
Donations can be made to PayPal and email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
I will post once I have permission from the Hospital to see if direct donations can be made to them, too.
 

***SAFE***
 
**URGENT***
9 week old female yellow Lab puppy
 
Unfortunately, O. cannot afford the bills – tested parvo+. She will be put to sleep if no rescue is found.
 

She is not a strong, going to die parvo case per the Vet. The owners sadly cannot afford the cost $5,000 – $6,000 – estimate – for her vetting.

The prognosis is guarded.

 

BHRR’s Mr. Knox is moving under a PENDING ADOPTION!

We will update as we can.

BHRR’s Jamila!

We found some masses in her mouth, and she had to have them removed. At the same time, we did a good dental clean.

She had begun not to eat as well, and I became a bit concerned.

The masses have been sent off for pathology.

Her legs are all drooled up from the saliva/blood.

I brought her home on fluids to keep her hydrated for another 12 hours, as she made it clear that she was done being at the Hospital! She speaks volumes often without saying a word….this time, she was quite vocal!

Everything crossed for good news….

I love this girl!

 

 

I am behind in some posts….
 
This is Mr. Romeo at his annual on June 12th with Tango.
 
BHRR’s Romeo weighed 26.8 kgs(58.96 pounds).
 
Within one week, four dogs went in for their annuals for almost $2,500.
 
This includes vaccines, exams, bloodwork, flea/tick, and heartworm preventative and also antibiotics for three dogs as despite being on year-round preventative – two were Lyme positive and one was Anaplasmosis positive. They all receive their Lyme vaccine too.
 
Our Haven program is an enormous part of what I do at BHRR, and food(almost 120 pounds a day) plus veterinary bills (we do not cut corners) add up quickly.
 
 
 
 
 
 

BHRR’s Knox, The Bouvier.
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
This photo is hilarious of him!  They turned him into Clifford!
 
Thanks to his foster home for sharing!!
 

Today, Mr. Ernie was at LAH for a possible rectal polyp. A complimentary nail trim was also done.

Total Vet Bill: $115.94

Here is what the Vet had to say:

“I had the pleasure of assessing Ernie today. I suspect that he has a rectal polyp. The mass is approximately 1cm in diameter and there is a very long, thin stalk (1-2cm in length) anchoring it to the rectum. It bled after I manipulated it, but the bleeding stopped after a couple of minutes. I was very hesitant to pull on it, but I think it should be straightforward to remove. 

The mass portion appeared to be friable and I was able to get a sample of the mass. 

I recommend that you have it removed when possible under general anesthesia. If he will be undergoing another entropion surgery, it would be reasonable to do it then. I would not do it at the time if his stifles undergo surgery as there is a risk of feces contaminating that surgical site during his recovery.” 

 

Miss Leah!
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
She is doing well!
 
The foster has indicated that she has a fear response to men in hats/hoodies, brooms, rakes, hoses, and canes, too. Not surprising.
 
Being left outside in the winter makes her nervous – considering she was kept outside before rescue, it is also unsurprising.
 
Small children also tend to make her worried. Children are unpredictable. They are fast, flighty, loud, and quite spastic in movements. Again, not surprising.

She is very much a Dane with her ‘sassy’ talk back behaviour at times!

 

Paint Nite for two local Rescues – BHRR and Ottawa Rabbit Rescue

Paint Your Pet’s Silhouette ~ FUNdraiser 

There are still some spots left!

You can still register!

All details are in the link HERE!

We will also be hosting a small silent auction and have a couple of draws!

Date: May 31st, 2024
Time: 7 pm – 9 pm
Location: Boston Pizza Hunt Club in Ottawaa

TOTAL RAISED: $370

BHRR’s Knox is STILL Available For Adoption!

From his foster home:

“His favourites include going on hikes, relaxing at the cottage, visiting @thesniffery, and meeting new people. He even got to see the Aurora Borealis!”

 

BHRR’s Albar & Miss Maybelle Cutie remain Available for Adoption!
 
Two of our miracle Beans! 

BHRR’s Chrissy – one of our Three’s Company pups!
*Severely hearing/visually impaired*
 
I have spent so much time going back and forth about putting her up for adoption.
 
We lost her sister, Miss Janet to cluster seizure activity, BHRR’s Jack has had limited seizure activity, and he has since been adopted, and, unfortunately, Miss Chrissy continues to have seizures despite being on Keppra and Pheno.
 
Therefore, she was moved to our Haven program a while ago, and she is living her best life each day, being her!
 
Today, she came with me to clear out more of the cottage cabin I lovingly restored a few years back. This is Miss Chrissy flaked out on a dog bed by the cabin – yes, safely secured – while I loaded up some of the antiques.
 
Such a special girl….. 
 
It is dogs like her that your generous support helps! BHRR’s Haven program is a huge part of the mandate, and I cannot do it alone.
 

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
BHRR’s Leah is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
Great Dane
 
Health Status: HEALTHY!
 
Age: ~2 years – Born: ~April 2022
 
Weight: ~ 55.4 kgs(121.88 pounds) in March 2024. We want to keep her lean/muscled and fit. Becoming fat is NOT in her or any dog’s best interest.

Some information from her wonderful foster mama:
 
“Miss Leah is doing great. We’ve been working on leash manners and recall and she is learning quickly. We’ve also been working on politely interacting with other dogs, as she likes to bark loudly at other dogs she sees out in the world. She’s getting better with this when she’s in our yard but still needs work while we’re on walks.
Leah has been eating and drinking well and is a very happy girl. She is looking much healthier now that she has put on some weight.
Leah loves attention and cuddles and her toys. She is quite gentle with her toys and likes to gather them on her bed. She is getting along with my dog very well and they love to play together. They get very excited though, so we’ve also been practicing taking breaks from playing and just sitting/laying down quietly together.
We’ve been taking the dogs out for walks at a local trail and Leah is in heaven when she’s there!”
 
Type of Home Ideal For Miss Leah: She is smart and needs a solid structure. She interacts well with people she meets, and we hope for a quiet, socially low-active level home. A residence that, while visiting family plus friends and having people over, does not host frequent BBQs or gatherings of large groups. We do not want to see her in a home with a high level of travel, with other people taking care of her. She is loyal and loves her people, and we want her to be part of the family if they go camping, go to the cottage, or do other fun travels. She is social and needs a home that is like her. One that shall not overwhelm her and will continue to work on her dog-to-dog manners. She would adore cottage life or hang out at home with her family. Visiting friends, family, pet stores, and pet-friendly places are excellent too. We want a quietly active home for Miss Leah. She is happy, healthy, full of personality and a joy!

She MUST go to a home that will continue to work on exposing her to new, fun, and beautiful things in the world. Time, patience, and effort have gone into having her be comfortable, to not only like yet love her own company. We are not advocates of dog parks. Many private properties rent out space for acreage rentals so that she can enjoy a controlled environment to run and zoom in.

We want her to look forward to the next adventures plus experiences. She needs a home that will give her new positive and great safe, memorable experiences along with structure, consisteny, plus patience. If you are a home that likes to take infrequent walks/hikes/strolls, Miss Leah is not for you…she is a healthy dog and needs to be kept emotionally and physically stimulated. She would make a great companion to get out into nature, explore, and enjoy the beach and other exciting adventures! She is also a great companion when watching movies or curled up with a good book.

A home that understands and shall continue to help her learn about this big fantastic world that we live in. We want her to live a quality-filled, enriched life. She is being fostered in a lovely home outside the Ottawa area, and can equally live comfortably in the city or country.
We want her to be happy and to live her best life every day. We want her to reach her full incredible potential!

She is another versatile BHRR dog! She can be in a home that works ft; pt works from home, is semi-retired or retired, etc. She will ONLY go to a home prepared to ensure she receives the balance he requires with proper exercise, socialisation, etc. along with positive balanced obedience.

She does need to go to a dog-experienced home, yet not specifically a Dane-specific experienced home. The home must be committed to her obedience, structure, and consistency, and to be patient, kind, and understanding, and while not hermits, they are not doing a hundred things each day or, weekly, or monthly. We want her to be treated as a beloved member in a right-matched, forever-loving home. We want her to be an invaluable member of her forever-loving adoptive home! She needs that right positive balance between patience, ‘tough’ love, calming assuring, and passively ignoring.

She is fed in a quiet place and knows that she will be fed enough food on time and that no one will take her away.
She loves home and her friends.
 
Personality/Temperament: Super loving, affectionate, calm, happy sweet; she loves to get outside to romp and run and is a delightful, playful pup! She needs to be emotionally/physically properly stimulated, social, active, gentle, plus kind. She thrives with consistency, structure, routine, and clear open communication to understand precisely what is expected of her. She is a very smart, active, and healthy puppy!
 
Previous Dog Experience: Previous Dog experience is required per the above, and she needs a home that is going to be committed to her wellbeing and make the small adjustments required as she is still an adolescent, still learning, and still mentally plus physically growing. She sleeps well, and ideally, while we would like to see her in a home with at least one right-matched personality-fit dog, it is not a deal breaker. She absolutely needs a strong doggie friend network in the community, though. That is so important. We have friends; she needs friends too. It is important for her to have doggie friends to continue to work on her manners.
 
Good With Cats: Unknown. She has been ok with the clinic cat yet, the clinic cat is not really a cat!
 
Good with Pocket Pets: Unknown
 
Good with Children: We feel that any right-matched personality fit home for Miss. Leah should not have small or young children. We will consider homes with children 12 and older and no more than two children in the home.
 
Grooming: She needs regular grooming to keep her coat healthy and look his best. Regular grooming includes nails and ears.
 
Car: She travels well in the car.
 
Housebroken/crate Trained: She is housebroken and crate trained – though the foster home has not used a crate. We never recommend giving any new addition too much freedom to start. It can be very overwhelming plus too stimulating for them.
 
Obedience: She requires a home that will be consistent and dedicated to continuing to help her become the best dog she can be. Her potential is enormous! As per our adoption contract, a full round of group obedience is required with all of our dogs. This is not about having a dog that ‘listens.’ This is about creating a strong and mutually respectful bonding relationship. Trust and respect work both ways. It is imperative that humans give dogs reasons to trust them.
 
Activities Suited For Her: She would excel in being your bff. Great companion at home, a great companion for camping, cottaging, hikes, and exploring new things! Her personality is HUGE! She loves the beach.
 
Loves & Bad Habits: Like any dog, she is not perfect. She is perfect in all of his imperfections, though! NOT to mention so beautiful. She still can bark, jump towards other dogs in her mixture of excitement, worry and lack of manners.
 
Anxieties/Worries: It is integral that the right-matched personality fit home and does not spend 24/7 with her. During the pandemic and even before it, we still need groceries; we should still go out and do errands; we should still get in our cars and go for a small drive to go somewhere to do something! Time has been spent having her learn to not only like yet enjoy her own company. As we need our alone time, she must do too. She is a solid and stable dog; we do not want any SA behaviours to develop.
 
As we have stated for over 28 years now, we will NEVER rush any dogs’ rehabilitation journey, we do not flip dogs, and we are not desperate to adopt them out. I had wanted to place her up for adoption a couple of months ago, yet other matters took precedence, and now it is all about her turn!
 
We will always place up for adoption the dogs that can be adopted and safe haven all others that cannot be placed up for adoption due to medical and/or behavioural reasons.
 
We do not take in hundreds of dogs yearly; we only took in 18 dogs in 2022 as it is about helping the next in need of us, giving them top-quality care, and not about taking in numbers. In 2023, we have ONLY taken in 6 dogs. We have taken in none in 2024 as of yet. Finances are extremely tight in rescue at this time.
 
After 28+ years, we know that we cannot please everyone, which means that BHRR is not the rescue to be followed, supported, and believed in by everyone. We remain small plus mighty, and as we go through this next transitional stage for BHRR, we shall continue to operate with a zero-tolerance approach, providing and beyond care to the animals.
 
Our mandates have never changed and will remain the same as long as we are around; the animals shall always be done right by as our priority.
 
Our adoption success rates remain second to no other group – 100% for over ten years of operating, and now 99% as we go through year 28, and we are excited as we go through this slow transition for BHRR!
 
You have done a THUMBS up job, as has your fantabulous foster home, Miss Leah, and we are thrilled you are making your special announcement!
 

This guy is now 2! BHRR’s Knox.
 
Happy belated Birthday!
 
I cannot believe he is still Available For Adoption! 
 
Thank you to his wonderful foster home for taking such excellent care of him!

UPDATE: Mr. Ernie’s vet bill.

***$865 DONATED TO DATE!***

Mr. Ernie was at the vet today for a recheck after his bilateral entropion surgery. The Vet wishes to see him back in a month. X-rays of his knees/hips have been sent onward to two Ortho specialists to obtain their thoughts.

Always a popular boy!! 
 
He was also to have a recheck on that fractured tail, so he is waiting to hear back from the Vet. He was to have x-rays taken, as they were unfortunately missed at the time of his surgeries.
 
A kind soul from EVC sent me some pictures, and I did not even have to ask! 
 
He left with some eye meds as his eyes were a bit infected, particularly his right eye.
 
His weight is now 139.7 pounds. He has put on almost 20 pounds of much-needed muscle mass and weight since he first arrived.
 
His foster home is doing a great job, and he says that he is excellent with dogs and people, yet a bit too interested in cats and bunnies.
 
Once we figure out where we are headed with his knees and tail, we can move forward with his next steps!
 
Such a good boy!! 

UPDATE: Mr. Ernie’s vet bill.

***$695 DONATED TO DATE!***

Total charges, this invoice… 4121.38
H.S.T…. *535.78 – The tax does add up!
Total, this invoice… 4657.16
Your old balance… 293.53
Your new balance… 4950.69
 

Miss Leah!
 
This is her and her SVA gift!
 
She & I are hanging out today to work on some adolescent manners!
 
Her weight was 55.4 kgs(121.88 pounds), and she is looking amazing; she could afford to lose a few more pounds yet overall incredible body condition!!! No longer emaciated.
 
Kim A., you and your daughter are doing a magnificent job with her!
 

UPDATE: Mr. Ernie’s vet bill.

***$517 DONATED TO DATE!***

Total charges, this invoice… 4121.38
H.S.T…. *535.78 – The tax does add up!
Total, this invoice… 4657.16
Your old balance… 293.53
Your new balance… 4950.69
 
He also has two blown CCL – the right side worse than the left.
 
We are waiting to discuss this further with his surgeon plus also to obtain an update on his tail, which was suspected of being fractured prior to being rescued.
 
 

AND Mr. Ernie has entered the building!
 
Thank you to his foster home for dropping him off at my work.
 
He is always such a huge hit!
 
Today, he is being neutered, having his bilateral entropion surgically repaired, his hips/knees xrayed, and to be microchipped if one is not found. The pound was to have had him microchipped.
 
We have had $250 donated to date between empties and donations, and would be so humbled to have any donations considered for his cause.
 
His bills will be in the several thousands.
 
AND if we need to surgically address his hips and/or knees even many more thousands of dollars shall be required.
 
Any donations to his bills can be made via email transfer or PayPal to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Please also consider donating your Empties!
 
Thank you on behalf of such a WOW boy!
 
This is him having his catheter being placed – what a character! 
 
We adore you, big boy, and we will figure out your bills…we always keep the faith…
 

$250 has been raised to date for BHRR’s Ernie!

We have many thousands of dollars more to raise.

Please do consider his cause to support!

Thank you SO much!

AND if you have any gently used items, new items, gift cards, gift certificates, or gift baskets to donate to a silent auction, please do EMAIL!

Thanks in advance!

 

Today I met up with BHRR’s Knox’s foster family to drop off more fish based food. 
 
He was sporting his fresh groom, and so hard to believe that he remains AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
BHRR does remain in a good crisis, especially for fish-based food – we have no less than 6 dogs on fish food only…
 

***URGENT***
 
We have been emailed a date for BHRR’s Ernie’s(DDB) bilateral entropion surgery, X-rays of those hips plus knees under sedation plus his neuter. We will also ensure that he is microchipped.
 
The date is March 12th. Surgeries were being booked for end of April/beginning of May yet they had an opening, and we needed to move forward.
 
This boy has waited long enough to get healthy to be able to have these procedures, and we need to know what is happening with those hips plus knees….
We are in urgent need of a surgery deposit – we are still paying off his other bills at this time, too – and need to raise $1,500-$2,000 by the 12th.
 
We know that it is asking a lot…we are only asking for his sake and hope that folks may consider his deserving cause to support.
 
We are hoping to run a silent auction in a couple of weeks, and Ottawa Rabbit Rescue offered up a joint paint night fundraiser back in 2023. TBA.
 
He is the sweetest of meatheads! 
 
This is him enjoying his Secret Valentine Admirer’s treat! A yummy smoked dino bone.
 
Donations to his cause can be made via email transfer or PayPal to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Please also consider donating your Empties!
 
If you have any new or gently used items, gift certificates, or gift baskets that you would like to donate to a silent auction for his benefit, please do advise.
 
We are also still trying to find a foster home for the Fawn mantle Great Dane. Her time is very limited right now.
 
Thank you!
 

Mr. Knox, the Bouvier with his SVA pressie! 
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
He is going to need another groom soon.
 
Thank you to his wonderful foster home for sending us this lovely photo & we will post more pictures as fosters send them to us!

BHRR’s Leah had her professional photo shoot last Wednesday – Thanks so much again to Liz Bradley for donating her time plus talent, and keeping me in the loop! 
 
Thank you to BHRR’s Leah’s lovely foster home for making the drive for Liz to take these pictures. 
 
Unfortunately, I cannot download them on my phone, so when I am back home, I will do so on my main computer. 
 
So, this photo is a watermarked screenshot. Sneak peek!
 
I am also going to be working on some play dates with her. Apparently, she is still exhibiting some poor dog-to-dog communication and inappropriate display for attention seeking – barking to go see other dogs.
 
I will start by bringing her to my home and, from there work on asking others in our invaluable network to schedule some dates with them too.
 
We are getting ever closer to her making her own special announcement!
 
She is also still in need of a Secret Valentine Admirer! 

Mr. Ernie was to have a recheck and boosters on January 8th.
 
His foster home reached out to say that, unfortunately, he had been exposed to Kennel Cough.
 
The vaccine – Bordetella – is like the flu shot, and the concern is not the kennel cough but the secondary infection of pneumonia.
 
So, we had to postpone his boosters and recheck, and sadly, his condition worsened, and on January 17th, we had him booked to be seen.
 
He was placed on antibiotics, plus meds for nausea/vomiting, and we may have to start his vaccine protocol from the beginning once he has become healthy.
 
We also cannot move forward with his neuter, address that fractured tail, or X-ray to properly diagnose what may be happening with his hips or knees.
 
Some days, it is so hard to catch a break. 
 
We have also entered a food crisis.
 
We continue to keep the faith!
 

BHRR’s Leah’s Biopsy Results & Per Her Surgeon:

“They came back as “mammary duct ectasia with mild multifocal lymphohistiocytic cellulitis”.  The comments say that mammary duct ectasia is a benign dilation of one or more ductal structures. Lesions can be single or multiple, often forming a mass-like lesion clinically. These lesions can occur in both intact and spayed animals, and are not associated with an increased risk of mammary neoplasia. As these cystic ducts enlarge, they can become secondarily inflamed. Complete excision of individual lesions is curative. In this case there is rupture of some of the smaller ducts, resulting in mild inflammation.”

 

“To me this sounds like we should just monitor, and if they become inflamed and a problem, then we can remove them at that time.  This is great news!”

Our 5th Annual “WON’T YOU BE MY VALENTINE” Fundraiser! February 1st – February 15th, 2024

Please help us give each doggie a special Valentine!

Thank you to everyone who has become a Valentine Angel to date, and to those asking, here is our email transfer address to send the vet bill part of your generous donation: contactbhrr@gmail.com

Please let us know if you would like to be a Secret Valentine!

Thanks in advance for any consideration!

These are the doggies still in need of a Secret Valentine Admirer:

  • Albar – Ronda B. will be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Knox  – Amy shall be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Maybelle Cutie – Ronda B. will be her SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Chrissy – Emilie P. will be her SVA  – COMPLETED!
  • Ernie – Leanne Berard McDonell & Cameron will be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Leah – Melody Lachance & Barrhaven & Area Empties will be her SVA – COMPLETED!
  • ‘Fred’ – Melody Lachance & Barrhaven & Area Empties will be her SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Aramis – Anne PB will be her SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Athos – Elaine Giles will be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Brooklyn  – Michele shall be her SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Caramel – Elaine will be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Giselle – Leanne & Cameron will be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • James  – Rejane shall be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Jamila – Anne PB will be her SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Lewis  – Emilie P. shall be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Lilly – Tanya S. will be her SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Olive – Melody Lachance & Barrhaven & Area Empties will be her SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Porthos – Amanda Gillon shall be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Romeo – Melody Lachance & Barrhaven & Area Empties will be his SVA – COMPLETED!
  • Rosie – Anne PB will be her SVA – COMPLETED!

Someone says this is how he plans to spend this day after the wicked snow and ice storm yesterday/overnight!
 
Not on just one dog bed but two! 
 
Mr. Romeo, you are one high energy ham, and we work hard to ensure that your daily physical and emotion plus mental needs/wishes are fulfilled…I think we are being successful for you are already snoring up a storm and it is was only 7 AM!
 
It keeps us in shape, too!
 
He is going to love the next storm already heading our way with some snow here and there to gear up, until Saturday, and then 35 cms is expected with a bit more freezing rain.
 
Our day begins between 4:30-5:00 am each day! No rest for the meek, weak, and mild here!
 

Miss Leah during her mammary biopsies surgical procedure. Her lungs were clear in the X-rays!

She has been putting on the weight/muscle mass really well, and her energy level is normal, so we are extremely happy with her medical rehabilitation journey to date.

Her mammaries are smaller than in December, except in one area. That area is bigger.

So, we will now see what the biopsies results say to determine the next steps that shall be in her best interest.

Mr. James!

This fine gentleman turns 16 years old in a few months.

Doesn’t he look marvelous!? He has Degenerative myelopathy (DM), arthritis, lipomas, and an HM, and he is now almost completely deaf/blind, yet we could not adore him more!

Granted, he looks plump, yet he is not. His winter coat is in full swing, and he wants to say that this snowstorm that has now commenced – up to 20 cms of snow and 5 mm of ice heading our way – is not a welcome sight!

AND another 20+ of snow coming our way after that right into Saturday.

He has been a fantastic part of our Haven program since May 2022. He gets along with all of the dogs and humans and is still fairly playful. He is such an easy keeper, gets excited for his treats plus food, and absolutely loves our heated floor in the sunroom.

We know that his time with us is limited, and we treasure every day with him…….

 
 
 

BHRR’s Knox!
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

In December, we received two applications for him.

Unfortunately, one failed their Vet reference. Our application and websites clearly indicate what we require and list in detail – all proactive/preventative vetting to be done and that we will verify.

The other application was not complete. We cannot consider incomplete applications. We asked the home to please re-submit a completed application, and though they emailed some additional information, the application still remained incomplete. The onus cannot be on us to chase after homes to fill in the blanks.

We remain very determined, patient, and diligent in our thorough screening processes, as his welfare is our top priority!

We shall only approve a right-matched personality fit home.

On a side note: He still needs a Collar Fairy/Elf!
Wigglebumz Collar – Martingale 1.5″ width, 24-26″ size

From his foster home:
“Knox continues to make friends anywhere we go.

We continue to work on his car behaviour. He is definitely better in the early mornings or at night, when there’s less people on the road (therefore less stimulating).”
 
 

BHRR’s Ernie was scheduled to have his next recheck, boosters, etc., yesterday, January 8th, yet his foster home reached out to say that he had been exposed to Kennel Cough.

So, unfortunately, until he recovers, we cannot move forward with his boosters and then schedule his x-rays under sedation, bilateral entropion surgery, neuter, etc.

 

 

UPDATE: From her foster home:

“Miss Leah is doing great. We’ve been working on leash manners and recall and she is learning quickly. We’ve also been working on politely interacting with other dogs, as she likes to bark loudly at other dogs she sees out in the world. She’s getting better with this when she’s in our yard but still needs work while we’re on walks. 

Leah has been eating and drinking well and is a very happy girl. She is looking much healthier now that she has put on some weight. 

Leah loves attention and cuddles and her toys. She is quite gentle with her toys and likes to gather them on her bed. She is getting along with my dog very well now and they love to play together. They get very excited though, so we’ve also been practicing taking breaks from playing and just sitting/laying down quietly together. 

We’ve been taking the dogs out for walks at a local trail and Leah is in heaven when she’s there!”

 

Here is a copy of Miss Leah’s abdominal biopsy results.

Miss Leah is scheduled on January 9th for x-rays of her lungs and, from there, biopsies of her mammary chain.

Depending on those results, either she will be referred to oncology if malignant, or remove one mammary chain, then the other in two separate surgeries, or there is not anything to do medically at that time – benign, no medical intervention necessary, or she is palliative.

Should Miss Leah be deemed adoptable, a copy of all diagnostics and results will be shared with the approved adoptive home and the Veterinary Clinic they will use. We believe in full disclosure.

BHRR’s Leah’s u/s report – she had her semi-urgent u/s on December 18th, 2023.
 
I will post separately her biopsy report as we had biopsies taken from the abdominal mass on December 18th.
 

BHRR’s Ernie – our newest addition to BHRR!

He is a DDB, ~2 years old, and a ham!

He has a possible fractured tail, hip, and knee issues, and needs bilateral entropion surgery and to be neutered. He came into the rescue quite skinny and has been putting on the weight nicely.

We shall be doing X-rays on his tail, hips plus knees when he is under for his neuter. He is far too painful to attempt to manipulate him without sedation. We have him on Gabapentin for pain management.

He has been dewormed, is on flea/tick meds, has had his first vaccines and is back for another recheck and boosters in January.

His bills to date are over $1,200.

He has been treated for ear infections, and we have him on a fish-based food to help with his skin and any possible allergies.

Thank you to his special secret Santas for the pressies, including a Wiggle Bumz collar, leash, treats, toys, and an orthopedic dog bed.

This picture is from his foster home with some of his goodies.

 

 

 

Miss Giselle!
December 25th, 2023

In 2024, she will join a very elite club! The Double Digit Dane Club. 

She will be turning ten years old. 

She will be one of four Danes that, in 2024, will turn 10. Skor, Ice & Zero will also be ten.

AND we are determined that each of them will live their best lives each and every day!

Miss Giselle remains full of personality! 

She was living in hell before her rescue & from day 1; we knew that she only survived as she had backbone plus determination.

Thank you to her special Secret Santa angel for spoiling her again this year & for the gifts for BHRR.

 

Miss Jamila!
Deaf & Blind Great Dane
December 25th, 2023

Our Egyptian queen! 

She is a miracle herself. She arrived at the rescue severely ill. Shockingly so.

We had to do multiple biopsies, mass removals, a bilateral eye enucleation, treat her for pneumonia and bronchitis and to spay her, etc.

She is a survivor! She has a backbone of steel while not having a mean bone in her body at the same time! She makes me smile every day and is deeply bonded to me. When she picks up my scent, she becomes super excited and makes the best sounds! My heart beats with so much love for her!

She is great with all of the dogs, is such an easy keeper, and speaks volumes without even making a sound! 

Her rescue was incredibly stressful, and we remained strong that she was the one who mattered and she was the priority. The dogs always come first.

She lacked for nothing and still doesn’t, and we sincerely hope that she reigns as the gorgeous queen she is for a very long time to come!

 

 

 

Miss Aramis! One of our Three Musketeers!

This is as close as she wanted to get to the Tree this year so her photo is from a distance!

She has zero issues walking by it, giving it a quick sniff, nor using the drinking station that is right by the tree, yet she no longer has any desire to stick her nose into the tree, and try to grab a branch!

Making it crash down last year has made her respectful of keeping some space.

Thank you to her Secret Santa Angel for the goodies and amazing rectangular Kirkland Dog bed from Costco(she is presently lying on an older round Costco dog bed).

I am going to have to make a trip out to the one on Cyrville to buy a few as the beds are incredible!

 

 

 

BHRR’s Miss Lilly
Deaf & Visually Impaired Great Dane
December 25th, 2023

Sean & I cannot believe how she has literally bounced back from the brink of death & is thriving!

AND thank you to her wonderful special SS for the pressies and a super comfy amazing Kirkland dog bed from Costco!

As promised we are sharing some of our annual Xmas photos!

We hope everyone is having a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season & warmest of wishes are being sent from our home to all of our friends, family & supporters!

We could not do what we do without you! 

 

BHRR’s Knox!
 
The Bouvier!
 
He remains AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
We did receive an application after we closed for our annual holiday shutdown, and we will review it once we re-open.
 
Thank you to Melody and Barrhaven & Area Empties for being his special Secret Santa angel this Christmas!
 
AND thank you to Mr. Knox’s foster home for sending us this great photo with his stocking & flashy bandana.
 
 

BHRR’s Ernie, playing with BHRR’s Jack(ADOPTED November 28th, 2023) VIDEO!

What we know to date for these two amazing dogs!
 
1) Miss Leah – has mammary tumours that shall require surgery, pathology. An abdominal mass was felt on December 3rd at her recheck, and she is scheduled for an u/s with the specialist, Dr. Ibey, on December 18th. She will require x-rays of her chest to ensure that she does not have any mets before going into surgery – should surgery be an option for her depending on the u/s results. She has put on 6 kgs since her arrival on November 4th; she is now 52 kgs(114.4 pounds).
 
2) Mr. Ernie has put on 5 kgs since his arrival on December 3rd. He is now 60 kgs(121 kgs). He had a recheck on December 12th for his ears – he is now on ear meds & to further examine a mass/lump found on his tail. He has been placed on Gabapentin, and once he is healthier, he will need surgery for his bilateral entropion, to be neutered, to address what could well be a tail fracture & may require a partial tail amputation plus a biopsy – we will x-ray along with x-raying his hips/knees while sedated. We strongly suspect HD, and cannot rule out cruciate issues on one or both legs.
 
Our doors are closed to intake, as both of these incredible dogs will require many, many, many thousands of dollars to rehabilitate successfully.

December 16th through to January 6th, 2024 inclusive!

Total Raised: $139.10

 

 

BHRR’s Leah – 18-month-old heavily marked fawn mantle, Great Dane.
 
She was at the Vet for her recheck on December 3rd.
 
When she first arrived on November 4th, she weighed 46 kgs(101.2 pounds).
 
On December 3rd, she weighed 52 kgs(114.4 pounds). She has put on a much-needed 13.2 pounds of weight and muscle mass.
 
She is now lean and developing wonderful muscle tone. I would like to see just a bit more on her, especially heading into winter. She is presently eating 6+ cups of food, and we are gradually working up to 7.5 cups. From there, we can re-assess and adjust as necessary.
 
She is on a fish-based food, and her coat, ears, and feet look great!
 
She had a thorough recheck exam, and while her mammary chain has significantly reduced, many mammary tumours can easily be palpated now. 
 
Additionally, the Vet felt a firm mass in her abdomen.
 

We are now waiting on an ultrasound with a specialist.

Depending on what is found, sedation and X-rays of her chest shall be done prior to the removal of the mammary tumour’s and abdominal mass. They will then be sent off to histopathology.
 

We were hoping to hear something soon. I will follow up should we not hear anything.

We were not able to move on any of these diagnostics/treatments earlier as she was just too emaciated, not strong enough, and would not have survived.
 
Time is sometimes your friend, and sometimes it is not. It is a risk vs. benefit situation.
 
Our annual Empties 4 Paws drive starting December 16th shall see all funds go to her care.
 

Ottawa Rabbit Rescue has invited us to do a joint Paint event with Janet in the early New Year, and those monies shall go towards her and Mr. Ernie’s care.

Her Vet bill was $349.42

Donations to her care can be made via PayPal gwen@birchhaven.org OR via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com

We still have 2 amazing BHRR pups needing a special Secret Santa angel of their very own!

BHRR’s Mr. Albar & Miss Chrissy!

Mr. Albar(one of our Beans) says he has been enjoying the snow after the big storm yesterday/overnight! All of that rain and wet, heavy snow has made for some big mud puddles!

Miss Chrissy is snoozing in our small cubby on one of our fireplaces. We are doing renovations, and had been storing some of the old pieces of tile in the cubby, and she also thought this was a good place to be! All tile pieces have now been removed, so no injuries are possible.

If anyone would be open to spoiling one of them this Christmas, please do email contactbhrr@gmail.com

AND here are the drop-off dates/times/locations for our 2023 Secret Santa Event!

1) Anytime: Oxford Station – 2425 Totem Ranch Road West
*We have a donation shed at the road across from the mailbox

2) Eagleson Veterinary Clinic – 500 Eagleson Road, Kanata, Ontario
Wednesday, December 6th, 8:45 pm
Thursday, December 7th, 9 am
Thursday, December 7th, 8:45 pm
Friday, December 8th, 8:45 pm
Saturday, December 16th, 8:45 pm
Sunday, December 17th, 9 am
Wednesday, December 20th, 8:45 pm
Thursday, December 21st, 9 am
Thursday, December 21st, 8:45 pm
Friday, December 22nd, 9 am
*Please do email gwen@birchhaven.org to let me know that you are planning on coming/when!

3) For those mailing items: Sean/Gwen Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1TO

If anyone may wish to make a financial donation instead, we can pick up Santa Angel items for them! PayPal: gwen@birchhaven.org or Email Transfer: contactbhrr@gmail.com

We need to have some time to get all of the pressies to their fosters!

AND BHRR’s Santa list is as follows for those who may consider donations to help the Rescue:
Pinesol, Lysol Wipes, Liquid Fabric Softener, Garbage Bags – all sizes, Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Dog Shampoo from PetSmart – Top Paw Oatmeal Baking Soda Shampoo with Aloe, Laundry Baskets(Great for storing toys & dog coats!), $$$ to pay down Vet Bills

 

Busy day for BHRR today!
 
Miss Leah was at the vet for her recheck – details on her blog!
 
AND Mr. Ernie was picked up tonight from the kennel that we had him at after busting him out of the kill pound early as the worry per what we had been told is they can often kill animals earlier than the deadlines.
 
He is at the Vet tomorrow AM at 10:30.
 
His lovely foster mama said he gave kisses to her ALL the way home! We already knew he was a flirt, and he is going to steal MANY hearts! 
 
He is said to be super skinny, which we already knew, and was being fed 6 cups a day per the boarding kennel. We shall be working his daily intake up to 10 cups, and re-evaluate in 4-5 weeks.
 
Stress from being a stray, being in the kill pound, then being moved to a kennel, plus who knows how neglected/abusive his life was before he was dumped, has taken its toll on him. Not to mention the pain he is in with his eyes, ears, skin, knees, and hips. We will also be proactively plus preventatively de-worming him per our protocols and doing blood work.
 
He and Miss Leah shall have very high vet bills – both require surgeries, and our thinking caps are on to help figure out how to raise many thousands of dollars….
 
They are both incredibly deserving….
 
More soon!
 
Welcome to BHRR, Mr. Ernie!
 

So Mr. Ernie(what we are calling the DDB to keep with our Lion King theme), was pulled early this AM & being boarded until we can get him.
 
The fear from the rescue angel who contacted us to see if we could help is that he would still be gassed and gassed early. Apparently, this pound has euthanised earlier than their deadlines and even with commitment.
 
So, he was busted out! This is him!  Such a sweet boy! I am very jealous of you, Megan, for fostering this gem! He is going to be such a joy
 
We are wondering if anyone may consider donating to help us with boarding fees as we work on figuring out when/how to get him.
 
Donations can be made via PayPal gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Thank you to Leanne & Cameron for offering to be his special SS & thank you to all for considering his cause to support. 
 

We will follow our Lion King theme as we have done with previous DDBs we have assisted and call him “Ernie”. This is after Ernie Sabella, the voice of Pumbaa in The Lion King.

BHRR’s Jack(Blind/Severely Hearing Impaired) – one of our Three’s Company dogs.
ADOPTED!

We had to do two separate eye enucleation surgeries, and he has thrived!

AND as always, foster failures are the best kind of failures! 

He has an older dog sister, Phoebe, cats, and rabbits to call family in addition to his wonderful humans.

This home has fostered quite a few amazing dogs for us over the years including, but not limited to BHRR’s Olive, BHRR’s Penelope, BHRR’s Walter & BHRR’s Simon. BHRR’s Jack is their first foster failure, and he is going to make a truly incredible permanent addition to their home.

Home visits like this are really lovely ones to do!

We are really excited for the fantabulous future he shall have!

You keep showing the world Mr. Jack how awesome and normal you really are! 

Thank you Janie once again for helping to do this HV with me! 

 

****URGENT*** ??SCHEDULED TO BE GASSED FRIDAY??
 
Male DDB(French Mastiff). About 2 years of age.
 
He was picked up as a stray.
 
Said to be so super sweet and gentle, and great with people.
 
What we have also been told:
‘He is at the gassing pound and came in as a stray. He has hip issues, some smaller masses, allergies, eye infections, and entropion in both eyes. Ear infections.’
 
We were contacted today about him. However, I did see the op on him yesterday. The kind Angel trying hard to save him put him under a ‘tentative safe’ status as they wanted to reach out to us.
 
He was at high risk of being put to sleep. 
 
As a special needs rescue, we would address his medical issues. We just needed a soft, safe foster spot for him to land….
 
*I have asked about: dog and cat interactions, and we are waiting on a video. There has not been any concern noted to date, though.
 

BHRR’s Pentu
ADOPTED!
 
She is adoption #439 for BHRR.
 
Each and every time I have seen Miss Pentu, she has been healthier, stronger, more confident, more social, more affectionate, more goofy, more happy, and I am so proud of her & of her foster mama!
She has always been brilliant and quite balanced, yet she was sometimes unsure in new circumstances, and while she still has moments when she is not quite ready to charge in, she moves forward with minimal hesitation and is ready for adventure. 
 
Fostering is hard on our hearts and souls, yet the reward of seeing a dog being set up for success is a feeling like no other.
 
The immense gratitude and thanks I have fills my heart to the brim with all that her foster mama/BHRR’s Simon did for Miss Pentu – and for us. She was in excellent hands.
 
Miss Pentu, I am so excited for your future and cannot wait for all of the next beautiful chapters of your life to unfold!
 
To your foster mama – once again, you did a magnificent job with her!
 
The tears are bittersweet as always as another deserving dog is adopted – this time for a gorgeous 16-month-old Standard Poodle/Bernese Mountain DogX named Miss Pentu. She was our first intake of 2023 (February 26th) & the first foster for this home, and what a wonderful journey they have had together! 
 
Miss Pentu now has a cat sibling and chickens plus a human brother who still lives at home, not to mention two forever-loving adoptive adults to now call family.
 
From our home to all of our friends, family & supporters, the best of good night wishes are being sent.
 

Tonight is the night! 
 
The home visit to see if this is the right matched forever loving adoptive home for Miss Pentu.
 
She is our Standard Poodle/Bernese Mountain DogX.
 
Her foster home has been nothing short of incredible, and we have been filled with so much gratitude. 
 
We will update as we can….

My last post of my night.
 
How I know Miss Lilly(deaf/visually impaired GD) is feeling a lot better….she is back to sleeping with her leg over her head. It makes my heart feel so good! 
 
Miss Lilly still needs a special Secret Santa angel of her very own. Tomorrow, we shall post all of the doggies that are still in need.
 
From our home to all of our friends, family, and supporters, the best of good night wishes are being sent!

My ‘work’ supervisor and companion as I work on my computer on two applications tonight.
 
Miss Lilly (Deaf and Visually Impaired GD) is holding her own… 
 
We still do not know what her diagnosis is, yet we are taking it day by day. The specialists as do I suspect cancer, yet nothing concrete.
 
She is eating better, becoming more playful, and back to ‘chomping’ at the water as it comes from the tap. 
 
While she is not running with abandonment in the yard with her friends, she is way more energetic and back to being a bit bossy in asking for affection. 
 
We have had $100 generously donated to date for her outstanding vet bills, and I remain deeply humbled to have received such generousity. I am slowly working on paying off the rest with each paycheck.

**UPDATE: $100 generously donated to date**
**$404 raised through Carol’s pop-up auctions**
Total Raised To Date: $504

BHRR’s Leah – when she first arrived in our care.

Miss Leah arrived to BHRR’s care on Saturday.
***NOT AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION***

We immediately had her vetted at my Hospital, EVC.
 
Her weight was ~46 kgs(101.2 pounds). She is skinny. Quite. I would like to see her closer to 112-115 pounds with better weight and muscle mass. She was a bit wiggly on the scale.
 
She is excellent with all humans!
 
She needs manners – not her fault. She will receive structure, consistency, and routine now.
 
She was indifferent to the clinic cat – she lived with a cat/dogs & she was overstimulated by most of the dogs she saw. She was wanting to see them!
 
Considering that she was in a pound for almost 6 weeks, travelled for 6 hours, and went to the vet, her being overstimulated was perfectly fine.
 
She is a smaller yet extremely well-proportioned, heavily marked fawn mantle Great Dane. Her headpiece alone tells me that there are some great lines in her pedigree somewhere.
I wish she had a chip, maybe we could have done some investigating. I have reached out to quite a few of my show mentor contacts anyway…just to see.
 
Once a dog is backyard-bred, one of the first things lost is headpiece. Her headpiece is lovely. She may well have been bred by a r/q show breeder and ended up in the wrong hands. Yet, most r/q show breeder’s microchip. Of course, there was no contract handed over with her, when she was dumped at the pound.
 
She is now microchipped to us, and shall always have us on her side!
 
I can confirm that I do believe her age to be perhaps a wee bit older than 18 months, yet no more than 2. She has had a very tough life to date, and that also may make her look a smidge older. She was kept outdoors, and never had her nails trimmed, per what we have been told. We had them done when she was spayed.
 
She also has the masking gene which as a Great Dane throws people off, and they think the dog is much older. This is, as stated many times over the years a genetic thing just as in humans. Premature greying is very common.
 
Her spay was on October 26th, and her incision has healed well, so we took out her staples.
 
She was healthy enough for her booster of DHPP – we did rabies while she was in the shelter on October 26th.
 
We also gave her Lepto, Lyme, and Bordetella per our protocols. We do not cut corners.
 
I wanted Nexgard for fleas/ticks and Interceptor Plus for heartworm preventative, and as an excellent de-wormer yet her size of flea/tick was not in stock. So, we went with Nexgard Spectra, which will cover fleas/ticks/heartworm/hw plus is a great de-wormer.
 
My biggest concern is her many mammary masses, one large area in particular – I nor her Vet do not like the feel. We have seen our share of extremely bad cases.
 
I also noted that she has a very enlarged lymph node on one side of her neck – right, the other is only slightly enlarged at this time. Her teeth look wonderful so it is not from a notable tooth issue. Her vet confirmed my findings. The enlarged one is on the same side as the largest mammary mass.
 
The plan right now is to get in better shape, allow her to decompress over this next month, and when she comes back – do the bloodwork I wanted to do, including for tickborne diseases and heartworm exposure. Then to also re-visit her mammary masses – she had a litter not all that long ago, and with the overbreeding, her mammaries are quite large. Poor thing. Babies should not be having babies.
 
The plan is to then schedule her to take biopsies. It would not be the safest to put her under anesthesia right now.
 
Her skin infection is clearing up nicely, and the fosters will monitor an inflamed area on one of her feet. It could be from the kennel or she is developing a behavioural issue with licking to self-soothe.
 
One of her nostrils has a minor almost abrasion, which is not concerning as she was in a kennel for nearly 6 weeks or could have scraped it on the transport to us.
 
She is also still in need of a special Secret Santa to call her very own! 
 
She is in need of an XL Costco dog bed, and treats, and I already bought her two wiggle bumz collars. The foster now has them.
 
Her bills on Saturday were just under $400, and I have already spent almost $400 when she was at the shelter for vet care.
 
I have her on a fish-based food as her colour can be prone to food allergies, seasonal and/or environmental allergies. It will really help her skin and coat.
 
If you may consider being a special Secret Santa for her or making a donation to her care – PayPal gwen@birchhaven.org or email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com – please do email us – contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Thanks in advance for any consideration, and we will post updates as soon as we can.
 

She is on her way! She began her travels this AM.
 
The foster home should have her soon & I am meeting them at work for her to be vetted.
 
I hear she is super sweet, really adorable, nervous, and a bit confused.
 
I also hear that she is really strong – that lack of training.
 
Cannot wait to meet her!
 

Miss Pentu is moving under a PENDING ADOPTION!
 
We shall update as soon as we can.
 

UPDATE:
Miss Leah was spayed by the shelter today, had her rabies vaccine, plus was microchipped.
 
She had been dewormed once and had her DHPP vaccine done recently.
 
We also placed her on antibiotics as a skin infection was noted. She appears to have some mammary masses that we shall investigate further with our veterinarian team. The shelter is limited in what they can do.
 
Once she arrives, we will do more bloodwork, a thorough exam, boosters, give additional vaccines, place on flea/tick, heartworm preventative, and de-worm again.
 
I have paid off her vet bill to date, and if all goes well, she will arrive next Friday or Saturday.
 
Thanks to a generous $100 donation, I have been able to purchase a leash, collar, and dog bowls. I am lending her foster home one of the chilly dog coats I have from one of my own Danes.
 
If anyone may consider donating an XL Costco dog bed – she never had any comfort in her past life was kept outside – we would be so grateful.
 
If anyone wishes to make a financial donation instead, they can be made via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
She is only the fifth dog we have been able to assist in 2023.
 
Miss Leah is in need of a special Secret Santa of her own! Please let us know if you would like to spoil her for Christmas!

Line up begins to gather for ‘peanut butter’ time! 
 
I am on the other side of the gate in the kitchen, so I do not get mobbed getting the peanut butter! 
 
They may be deaf/blind, yet their noses are well-honed! 
 
Mr. Romeo’s butt can also be seen in this photo & Irish’s face!

We have Porthos(3.5), Apex in the back(almost 4), Zero with his face sniffing the ground(9.5), Salt(7.5), Aramis(3.5) looking straight at the camera, and Ice(9.5).

**UPDATE: $100 generously donated to date**
**$404 raised through Carol’s pop-up auctions**
Total Raised To Date: $504

This is Miss Lilly, who is almost 6 years young.
 
She is deaf/visually impaired, and Sean plus I continue to shake our heads as to why her forever loving right-matched personality fit home never came along once she was successfully rehabilitated and placed up for adoption. She has been with us since August 1st, 2019.
 
She was placed up for adoption on May 28th, 2020. In May of 2022, she was moved to our Haven program.
 
As always, it does not matter, as she is adored beyond measure, and has almost 148 acres of trails to romp and run on, almost 3+ acres safely fenced in to play with her friends, and our family who would do anything for her. She gets to go to so many places, has play-dates, and enjoys her adventures.
 
On Friday, October 6th, she stopped eating. No other signs that anything was wrong, happy, no vomiting, no diarrhea, and full of life.
 
When she did not eat again on Saturday, I knew something was very wrong. We rushed off to emerge – and, despite doing x-rays, bloodwork, ultrasounds, examinations, and urinalysis, nothing could be diagnosed.
 
Right before our eyes, she was fading. She stopped drinking, urination was once a day, then every other day, even with supportive care, including IV fluids. She became very wobbly.
 
She then could no longer use her back legs and then could not stand. The deterioration was alarming and so fast—the weight loss.
 
We discussed doing an exploratory surgery, and biopsies of her insides, and knowing that the concern was that we most likely could lose her on the table, our thought process was that if we did not do anything we would lose her anyway.
 
The specialists did not feel that she was strong enough to survive the surgery, and their recommendation was to seriously consider crossing her over.
 
Sean & I said that we would give her until Tuesday, October 10th to see if she would make a turn for the better. Not having any diagnosis was devastating. We brought her home to say our goodbyes and to have the dogs say their goodbyes, and for her to do the same.
 
We also inquired about antibiotics, even though nothing was presenting in her bloodwork and urine re: a possible infection.
 
Even though her 4dx test was negative, we ran it twice, could she have some form of tickborne disease? The 4dx snap only tests for three tickborne diseases.
 
The Vets were open to dispensing doxycycline, and by Tuesday, she was getting up on her feet – wobbling, limping yet taking herself to the water bowl to drink, going outside to urinate – concentrated, and her first BM was 5 days after her last known one. Her stool was completely normal and, at the end, soft yet still formed.
 
Sheer coincidence with the antibiotics and making a good turn, possibly. We do not know.
 
She began eating a bit – RC LF and some PVD Essential Care puppy, then on to some kibble, began taking a bit of her special treat(PB), and loved her small bits of hotdogs and tiny pieces of cheese.
 
We fast forward to today, and though she is still not eating 100% normally – she is eating about 3/4’s of her daily intake, gets up for her peanut butter treat time, is back to ‘eating’ the water as it comes from the tap, has more energy, and is also back to sleeping with her leg over the back of her head.
 
Is she 100%? No, she is not. Do we have any idea what is/was happening, no, we do not. Can she relapse? For sure, she could.
 
Are we feeling blessed to have her still? We absolutely do.  We are taking things one day at a time.
 
Her Vet bills are $2,750 and change.
 
We were going to use the money raised from the pop-up auctions that Carol is hosting for Miss Leah, the newest addition to BHRR, to arrive shortly; yet, we must get on top of Miss Lilly’s vet bills.
 
She is one of the biggest reasons why things have been very quiet on this page to date. This and that I worked 12 straight long shifts at the Hospital.
 
Please excuse her hair all over; she is blowing her coat big time with all that she has gone through.
 
How we love this small yet big personality-filled Dane!
 
Any donations to her cause can be made via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Thank you for any consideration…..
 

Our Three’s Company puppy, BHRR’s Jack, is moving under a PENDING Adoption!

We had to do two separate eye enucleation surgeries for him, and he is also hearing impaired, and he is a perfect representation on how normal dogs can be!

We shall update as soon as we can!

 

We have now moved Mr. Romeo to our Haven program after being available for adoption for shy of 2 years without any interest in adopting him.

He is such an amazing dog, and shall continue to live the best life ever in our care! We want and adore you Mr. Romeo!

1.5-year-old female fawn mantle Great Dane. We will ensure that she is spayed.
 
Was surrendered to the pound as she barked – was anxious.
 
Calm, gentle, active, friendly, playful, follows her humans everywhere, loves to be petted, loves toys, appears to have been bred several times(large drooping teats – recently litter?), housetrained, never had nails trimmed, appears to have been kept in unsanitary conditions, has some hair missing.
 
Lived with dogs – 3 of them and a cat and did great, excellent with people – she was a bit worried when she first was dumped at the shelter yet is comfortable with the staff now.

Miss Pentu!
 
She had her most recent groom earlier this month!
 
Thank you to Morgan for always doing the best of grooms & to her wonderful foster mama for generously offering to donate the funds to pay for Miss Pentu’s groom.
 

Only one of our dogs! 

Tango clearly sees nothing wrong, yet Mr. Porthos’s face cracks me up!

He knows this is not proper conduct! 

Per Mr. Knox’s wonderful foster home!

“Knox continues to be a joy to have around. 

He enjoys our daily hikes/outings. He hasn’t met a person he hasn’t liked! and vice versa. He certainly knows how to turn on the charm for the people.

He has a few close dog friends that he plays with regularly, which I think has been good for him.

Car rides are getting better. He is less anxious and does not lunge at cars. Likewise with walks and cars. He is lunging less and less, but there is something peculiar about red vehicles! I thought it was a coincidence, but consistently he tries to lunge at red cars.

He is super smart and willing! We have not found a food puzzle he can’t master.”

 

How freakin’ adorable is this photo?!!!

Miss Pentu(Standard Poodle/BernerX) & BHRR’s Simon(ADOPTED June 13th, 2022)

Miss Pentu is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

She is heading for her next professional groom shortly & here is recent update from her wondering foster mama!


“Pentu is doing so good! She just loves meeting other dogs. She absolutely LOVES seeing her dog pals on our morning walk and gets to play with them in the park. She is such a happy girl and is not dominant at all while playing with other dogs. Her recall is excellent for a 1 year old! She responds 95% of the time (can you believe it?!). Her mouth playing has also subsided so much. She does not try and play with her mouth first anymore which is amazing. She travels well in the car and just loves to cuddle. Anyone who meets her whether it’s the groomer, friends, people at the park just cannot believe she has not been adopted and people always say, wherever her forever home is, would be incredibly lucky to have her. She is progressing as a normal, playful, happy puppy ?
 

So thankful plus appreciative to all the wonderful folks who came out braving the windchill – 13 degrees this AM! – & drizzle to lend a hand at the Brockville Hyundai charity car wash plus BBQ today. 
 
Also extremely appreciative of all those who came out in support, and to Dane plus all of his amazing staff for their lovely support & generosity.
 
The total raised will help pay off the remainder owed on BHRR’s Jack’s second eye enucleation & emergency vet visit (I have been very slowly paying off his outstanding bills out of my own pocket) plus shall also pay off a small amount of his Vet visit today – his annual. That is such a feeling of pressure being taken off….
 
Mr. Jack had a great vet visit, thumbs up & weighed 19 kgs(41.8 pounds).
 
BHRR’s Jack is AVAILABLE for Adoption.
 
Even though we are slowly transitioning over the next 8+ years now, we are still helping some deserving dogs as we can plus have our Haven dogs plus adoptables still needing food, meds, vet visits, and groomings as their bills just do not simply stop.
 
Miss Nolan’s bills alone right now are over $2,000. 
 
So events like this are essential to enable us to continue helping the dogs in need of our highly specialised programs.  We remain deeply humbled to have the kindness we do, and I was informed that Dane will have us back in 2024.
 
 
That is a feeling of privilege and honour. May we have better weather in year 3 as 1 & 2 were not summer weather at all!!
 
Grand Total Raised: $871.85

As always, I am sorry for how quiet the group has been. I have been working so much to pay for rescue bills, and all-time left over goes to the animals to give them everything, with 4-5 hours each night delegated to sleep.
 
I sincerely wish I had better news to share…my heart is bleeding. 
 
My Miss Fighter Bean(BHRR’s Nola), who has defied the most incredible odds – she weighed only 0.38 kgs when this litter was rescued on August 3, 2022, at barely a week old.
 
She weighed the same as the sweet female bean that was lost mere hours after we picked them up & rushed into emergency in Kingston with them. I still cry over that loss, as she literally had no chance when we picked the pups up. We tried so hard, though….she passed away in my loving arms after Cassy held/snuggled her all the way to the Vet & all the way back to get home.
 
Miss Nola was diagnosed with a HM after we rescued this litter and said murmur could get worse or stay the same throughout her life.
 
She is the one that we had to do X-rays on to make sure she did not have a broken pelvis or legs as she could not move as well as her siblings. She was found to be only a bit developmental delayed, which she more than made up for in time!
 
Well, yesterday, Miss Nola crashed and fast. 
 
She is palliative, and I have brought her home to give her what quality time we can for what time we have left. She is in congestive heart failure and has had several seizures. The vets cannot rule out a stroke either, yet we are not going to put her through the stress of a CT scan at this point.
 
She is back home, all tucked up in blankets and on comfy beds, right in the same area beside my desk as she was when she first arrived.
 
Surrounded by all she knows and loves.
 
She is adored, she is safe, and we have one of our trusted Vets on standby – they are mere minutes away visiting friends right now – to come to our home to humanely cross her over when it is time.
This afternoon, she had what many of us in medicine call ‘The Surge,’ and she was up, wagging her tail, knew who we all were, ate, took some treats, drank some, went outside to have a pee & I was privileged to get the best Miss Nola Bean leans…
 
She is not in any pain; she has medications on board and so much love that my heart is bursting.
 
All of The Beans have carved their way into my heart and soul, and as hard as it is adopting them out, having to cross any of them over is hell.
 
If anyone may consider donating to her bills, as always, we would be deeply humbled.
 
PayPal: gwen@birchhaven.org
Email Transfer: contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Please keep her in your thoughts…..she should have had a lifetime of adventures, not only a year…. 
 
She is the sweetest, most gentlest, and kindest of dogs.
 

Last Saturday was our 3rd annual sales/services event at BHRR.
 
Despite the rain – we were hopeful at first, with guests arriving well before the event started yet shortly after 9 am, the rain came and came and came…. – we had two very generous online donations that gave us a final total raised of:
 

$249 

The rain did not stop until just before our event ended at 3 pm….so we remain very grateful to all who came out and to the Turners & the Maracles for their generous online donations!
 
Here we have Mr. Romeo keeping a close eye on the BBQ while Sean took a Power Nap & after his Power Nap! 
*AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION*
 
Thank goodness for tents and Sean’s extra vapour barrier to keep everything dry!
 
The next event is our second to last driveway event of 2023, being hosted at Cassy & John Montgomery’s 37 Dressler Drive in Kanata on August 13th from 10 AM – 4 PM
 
We still owe almost $1,000 in vet bills and many more.
 
We remain with closed doors for intake until such time as our finances for the rescue are in better shape.
 
We also remain desperate for Pinesol and liquid fabric softener along with laundry detergent.
 

BHRR’s Everest
ADOPTED!
 
What an amazing puppy he is!
 
The best kind of failure as we say is a foster failure!
 
Still not convinced he is a Pyr/Maremma, especially with his coat type yet he is ? loved & shall be properly taken care of for life, and that is what is most important!
 
He has a ‘big’ cat sister, and a golden doggie sister as part of his forever-loving adoptive family.
 
We are so excited to see how his future develops, as his potential is immense.
 
Congratulations to all! 
 

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

BHRR’s Knox is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
Bouvier(could be a X)
*All Vet paperwork, dog health passport, and shelter documentation state Bouvier. Found one tiny notation by O. on a piece of paperwork that stated could be mixed with Toy PoodleX*

Health Status: HEALTHY!

Age: ~1 year– Born: April 24th, 2022

Weight: ~ 95 pounds. His last weight was May 10th, 2023, @ 85.8 pounds. We want to keep him lean/muscled and fit. Becoming fat is NOT in his or any dog’s best interest.

Some information from his wonderful foster mama:

“Knox has been a wonderful foster. He has seamlessly integrated into our routine, it feels like he has been here all along. Knox is eager to please and learn. Since being with us, he has learned to sit, lie down and shake a paw. He has also learned to sit and wait until we tell him “ok” for his meals and at the door. He is comfortable in his crate and clean in the house. While he has never counter-surfed, he is counter-height, so he will poke around occasionally to see what’s there. After walks, we have made a routine of wiping his paws. So, he now offers his paws after a walk for us to wipe them. My mum has always brushed our dog’s teeth, and Knox is no exception. He enjoys this 2-3x a week.  He allows us to brush him daily, and the groomer said he was great during his groom.

He enjoys his minimum 3x daily walks plus off-leash time. We walk around the neighbourhood and utilize the local trail systems. He has proven people-friendly for the most part. Since being with us, he has only encountered a few men he was unsure of. They were eager to meet him and/or wearing sunglasses and hats, which made Knox nervous. With some calming words and slower introductions with the same people, Knox settled and was accepting of their presence. Knox has proven dog friendly and has a close group of dog friends. He sees them nearly on a daily basis and they are of varying breeds and sizes. He is usually the biggest of the group. He plays well with his friends and when has had enough play, he will go off on his own to decompress and rejoin play when he is ready. Knox’s recall is pretty good. Many people who have met Knox comment on how well-behaved he is. 

Knox has also enjoyed going to the cottage with us as well as the beaches at Sandbanks Provincial Park. He has discovered water, and while we don’t know if he likes swimming, he enjoys laying in the shallow water to cool down and drink from.

He has shown many positives, and we continue to work with his excitement to moving vehicles. He has immensely improved in this area! He tends to fixate and lunge toward oncoming vehicles. He’s great on leash during quieter times, such as during his morning walk; however, evening walks can be tough as there are more people on the road. This will continue to be a work in progress. This being said, he is great in the car, and he has not shown to be reactive of the moving vehicles while riding in the car.

 

Type of Home Ideal For Mr. Knox: He is brilliant and needs a solid structure. He interacts well with people/dogs she meets, and we hope for a quiet, socially low-active level home. A residence that, while visiting family plus friends and having people over, does not host frequent BBQs or gatherings of large groups. We do not want to see him in a home with a high level of travel, with other people taking care of him. She is loyal and loves his people, and we want him to be part of the family if they go camping, go to the cottage, or do other fun travels. He is social and needs a home that is like him. One that shall not overwhelm him. He would adore cottage life or hang out at home with his family. Visiting friends, family, pet stores, and pet-friendly places is excellent too. We want a quietly active home for Mr. Knox. He is happy, healthy, and a joy!

He MUST go to a home that will continue to work on exposing him to new, fun, and beautiful things in the world. Time, patience, and effort have gone into having him be comfortable in his skin, to not only like yet love his own company. We are not advocates of dog parks. Many private properties rent out space for acreage rentals so that he can enjoy a controlled environment to run and zoom in.

We want him to look forward to the next adventures plus experiences. he needs a home that will give her new positive and great safe, memorable experiences along with structure, consisteny, plus patience. If you are a home that likes to take infrequent walks/hikes/strolls, Mr. Knox is not for you…he is a healthy dog and needs to be kept emotionally and physically stimulated. He would make a great companion to get out into nature, explore, and enjoy the beach and other exciting adventures! He is also a great companion when watching movies or curled up with a good book.

A home that understands and shall continue to help him learn about this big fantastic world that we live in. We want him to live a quality-filled, enriched life. He is being fostered in a lovely home in the Aurora area yet can equally live comfortably in the city or country.

We want him to be happy and to live his best life every day. We want him to reach his full incredible potential!

He is another versatile BHRR dog! He can be in a home that works ft; pt works from home, is semi-retired or retired, etc. He will ONLY go to a home prepared to ensure he receives the balance he requires with proper exercise, socialisation, etc.

He does need to go to a dog-experienced home, yet not specifically a Bouvier-specific experienced home. The home must be committed to his obedience, structure, and consistency, and to be patient, kind, and understanding, and while not hermits, they are not doing a hundred things each day or weekly, or monthly. We want him to be treated as a beloved member in a right-matched forever-loving home. We want him to be an invaluable member of hid forever-loving adoptive home! He needs that right positive balance between patience, ‘tough’ love, calming assuring, and passively ignoring.

He is fed in a quiet place and knows that he will be fed enough food on time and that no one will take her away.

He loves home and his friends.

Personality/Temperament: Super loving, affectionate, calm, happy sweet; he loves to get outside to romp and run and is a delightful, playful pup! He needs to be emotionally/physically properly stimulated, social, active, gentle, plus kind. He thrives with consistency, structure, routine, and clear open communication to understand precisely what is expected of him. He is an active, healthy puppy!

Previous Dog Experience: Previous Dog experience is required per the above, and he needs a home that is going to be committed to his wellbeing and make the small adjustments required as he is still a puppy, still learning, and still mentally plus physically growing. He sleeps well, and ideally, while we would like to see him in a home with at least one right-matched personality-fit dog, it is not a deal breaker. He absolutely needs a strong doggie friend network in the community, though. That is so important. We have friends; he needs friends too. He has enjoyed making new canine friends. 

Good With Cats: Unknown.

Good with Pocket Pets: Unknown

Good with Children: We feel that any right-matched personality fit home for Mr. Knox should not have small or young children. We will consider homes with children 14 and older and no more than two children in the home.

Grooming: He needs regular grooming to keep his coat healthy and look his best. Regular grooming includes nails and ears. We have also had him professionally groomed during his time in rescue.

Car: He travels well in the car.

Housebroken/crate Trained: He is housebroken and crate trained. We never recommend giving any new addition too much freedom to start. It can be very overwhelming plus too stimulating for them.

Obedience: He requires a home that will be consistent and dedicated to continuing to help him become the best dog he can be. His potential is enormous! As per our adoption contract, a full round of group obedience is required with all of our dogs. This is not about having a dog that ‘listens.’ This is about creating a strong and mutually respectful bonding relationship. Trust and respect work both ways.

Activities Suited For Her: She would excel in obedience work. Great companion at home, a great companion for camping, cottaging, hikes, and exploring new things! He has a lot of personality!

Loves & Bad Habits:  Like any dog, he is not perfect. He is perfect in all of his imperfections, though! NOT to mention handsome. He still has some excitement issues when encountering cars on walks, mostly at night.

Anxieties/Worries: It is integral that the right-matched personality fit home and does not spend 24/7 with him. During this pandemic and even before it, we still need groceries; we should still go out and do errands; we should still get in our cars and go for a small drive to go somewhere to do something! Time has been spent having him learn to not only like yet enjoy his own company. As we need our alone time, he must do too. He is a solid and stable dog; we do not want any SA behaviours to develop.

As we have stated for over 27 years now, we will NEVER rush any dogs’ rehabilitation journey, we do not flip dogs, and we are not desperate to adopt them out.

We will always place up for adoption the dogs that can be adopted and safe haven all others that cannot be placed up for adoption due to medical and/or behavioural reasons.

We do not take in hundreds of dogs yearly; we only took in 18 dogs in 2022 as it is about helping the next in need of us, giving them top-quality care, and not about taking in numbers. In 2023, we have ONLY taken in 4 dogs to date.

After 27+ years, we know that we cannot please everyone, which means that BHRR is not the rescue to be followed, supported, and believed in by everyone. We remain small plus mighty, and as we go through this next transitional stage for BHRR, we shall continue to operate with a zero-tolerance approach, providing and beyond care to the animals.

Our mandates have never changed and will remain the same as long as we are around; the animals shall always be done right by as our priority.

Our adoption success rates remain second to no other group – 100% for over ten years of operating, and now 99% as we go through year 27, and we are excited as we go through this slow transition for BHRR!

You have done a THUMBS up job, as has your amazing foster home, Mr. Knox, and we are thrilled you are making your special announcement!

BHRR’s Miss Pentu!
(Standard Poodle/Bernese Mountain Dog)
 
Freshly groomed! Her second professional groom with us.
 
Gosh, she is simply the best!
 
She remains AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
Thank you to her wonderful foster home for sharing these pics!

Miss Pentu went to visit her foster mom’s mom & she has a wonderful dog-friendly cat. 
 
What a lovely photo!
 
Miss Pentu will have her next professional groom shortly and remains AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
Thank you to her incredible foster mama for all they do for Miss Pentu/us!

Sweet Brutus turned 11 years young in April, and today, his giant breed body said it was time to leave us.

RIP you amazing boy. You have been such a joy, and it was an honour being blessed with your incredible spirit, heart, and soul.

BHRR’s Asante (Newfx)
ADOPTED
 
Thank you again to Leanne & her 11-year-old daughter for doing this home visit tonight with me. 
 
Thank you also to Leanne for taking all of these pictures other than one, as my phone just does not seem to take good photos.
 
Miss Asante, you shall be dearly missed. I adore all of the dogs I am entrusted with, and you are no different. 
 
So many kind and generous people surrounded you to help BHRR make you healthy plus whole.
 
We hope your future is as bright and as wonderful as you so very much deserve. You are a gift, and we have felt extremely privileged to have been contacted by the shelter to step up to assist you!
 
Miss Asante is adoption #437 for BHRR
 
 

Stay tuned!
 
Mr. Knox, the 1-year-old Bouvier, will be making his own special announcement shortly!
 
Thank you to his really wonderful foster home for the great photos plus updates that they have regularly shared! 
 
He had his professional groom last week, and I am told he ROCKED it!

I absolutely loved my visit tonight with BHRR’s Everest! 
 
He was born January 16th, 2023 & what a truly wonderful puppy. His fosters are doing a great job with him. 
 
Thank you to his amazing foster Dads for opening up their home to me tonight!
 
I also had a blast with their Golden Rayne & cat, Nala, who thinks she is a dog!

On Wednesday, May 24th, BHRR’s Everest was brought into EVC for an emergency.
 
While he had some loose stool over the previous couple of days – he was going through a food transition plus got into some packs of Forti Flora, he had a couple of small spit-ups on the Tuesday, yet by Wednesday, he had vomited several times, still had loose stool and was becoming fairly quiet.
 
He was still eating/drinking ok and playing, yet clearly not his usual self. He is a high energy pup.
 
This began to concern me, and in also being sent a picture of him, I had him booked for an appointment at EVC to be immediately seen.
 
He had an appointment on Friday, May 26th, for his final boosters, so this means that he had not yet received his last DHPP booster due to his age.
 
With Parvo being prevalent right now in the Ottawa area, I was worried about possible Parvo exposure, and the other option is a possible FB. Working in emergency medicine can make the mind go from zero to a hundred quite quickly.
 
However, as told to his wonderful foster dad, we would take it one step at a time, one breath at a time. 
 
I gave the Vet a heads-up that Mr. Everest was coming in shortly, and they also agreed that we should do a parvo test.
 
Mr. Everest’s parvo test was negative, he was placed on Metronidazole, given more de-wormer, and given Cerenia medication to help with his vomiting/nauseous, and so he has nothing serious – thank goodness – just another expensive vet visit to add to the total.
 
However, if we had not gotten him in, it would not have ended up well. We shall continue to go up and beyond for our dogs; they deserve nothing but the very best!
 
His weight was 21.4 kgs(47.08 pounds) at just under 4.5 months of age.
 
He is doing SO much better, and we have rescheduled his boosters; the next weigh-in for Nexgard Spectra for this Thursday, June 1st.
 
If all goes well, he should then be making a very special announcement!
 
AND I get to visit with him later tonight! Excited!
 

Jack saw his surgeon on the 27th, and he was given an antibiotic injection – Convenia – that lasts ~ 14 days.

His foster mom sent me a picture, and said ‘Jack’s eye is looking even better today!’

Today, Mr. Jack’s foster mom messaged me to say that ‘Jack is doing really well and he is a happy boy! He is still having some blood from his eye. It is a much lesser amount than earlier this week.’ They then asked when I would expect that to clear up.

I said that it should have been resolving already, and if he still has it within the next 24+ hours, let’s get him in. I then asked if they could send me a photo or video. When they did, I sent the picture immediately to his surgeon, as I did not like the look of it. It looks infected. The foster confirmed that he is wearing his cone 24/7. 

The foster then told me that the discharge is more ‘sticky’ today over just being bloody like it has been over the previous days.

The surgeon also expressed concern regarding his eye and requested to see him the next day – the 27th.

Miss Pentu – AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

One day post-op surgery

After getting home from surgery

Sorry for the radio silence over the last wee bit….
 
Rescue has been insane…..more than usual.
 
As many know, Mr. Jack, one of our Three’s Company pups – was to have his second eye enucleation on May 26th.
 
Unfortunately, he had a seizure on May 18th – his last one was in December 2022 – believed to have been related to being on Nexgard Spectra and Clavaseptin which lowered his seizure threshold. We do not know the possible cause of this seizure. Monitoring and journaling are continuing.
 
In conversing with his surgeon, Mr. Jack’s surgery was postponed, and then in deeper discussion, they wanted to do his surgery even sooner. So, with one day’s notice, his foster dropped Mr. Jack off at EVC on May 22nd.

Mr. Jack was a thin 16.5 kg(36.3 pounds). He has been on pain meds for his eye, and hopefully now that the eye has been removed, he will begin putting weight back on.

 
The total cost of his surgery & pre-surgery recheck – $3,472.64
 
We have put down $1,500 – just over $1,000 was raised to date, and I put $ out of my paycheck to increase the deposit to $1,500.
 
We know times are tough for everyone, and we thank everyone who has donated to date, shared his story, and won auction items to help us!
 
If anyone may consider his deserving cause to support, donations can be made via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
He is healing well. He was given an antibiotic injection during surgery and has gone home with a NSAID, which is also a pain medication, another pain medication, and trazodone.
 
He is an $8,000+ dog and counting, and we will do everything he needs!
 

BHRR’s Jack’s foster home told me he had a seizure tonight.

I will be talking to his surgeon tomorrow re: this. He is scheduled for his second eye enucleation next week.

Seizure History:
1) Seizure December 14th ~5:25 PM
2) Seizure December 15th ~12:58 PM
3) Seizure December 16th ~11:06 AM
*Dr. Levesque advises stopping the Clavaseptin & giving him at least a week or so and monitoring. Foster home to start a journal, too, to determine if there is any pattern.
4) Seizure December 16th ~6:30 PM
5) December 18th ~3:09 PM
6) ‘Possible’ seizure March 6th, 2023 – ~7:45 PM
7) Seizure May 18th – ~8:30 pm

So, this wee ‘giant’ is ready to be fostered to adopt!

BHRR’s Everest
Great Pyr/Maremma
Born: January 16th, 2023

We will be booking his final boosters tomorrow for the end of May, and he will then be ready to be officially adopted.

AND we are excited to post that he is moving under a Foster to PENDING ADOPTION status as his foster home has completely fallen in love with him.

What is not to love & his foster home has been truly amazing with him!

We will update as we can!

This is Mr. Everest after having a bath. 

 

 

Mr. Knox was at the vet this week – Wednesday, May 10th  – Foster also said he was passing small amounts of urine, and we wanted to rule out marking vs a possible UTI.
 
The results of the urinalysis were normal, his bloodwork was negative for heartworm and tickborne diseases, he had his Lepto plus Lyme vaccines, and we asked to have dewormer and flea/tick plus heartworm dispensed for him.
 
His Vet bill was $548.19. We do not get a rescue discount at the hospital the foster uses.
 

Mr. Knox weighed 39 kgs(85.8 pounds) and turned one year of age on the 24th of April.

He will need boosters for his Lyme/Lepto in 4 weeks’ time.

He was placed on Gabapentin plus Trazodone at the shelter for anxiety, and as he has settled in, we are reducing the medications to wean him off. He is doing great! He does like to lunge at cars, and de-sensitization is being worked on.

He is not due for Rabies or DHPP until August 17th, 2023.

We are also working on scheduling him a professional groom, getting some professional photos, and then he will be ready to be placed up for adoption.

 

Mr. Everest was at the vet today and now weighs 19.8 kgs(43.56 pounds).
 
He is a Great PyrX born January 16th, 2023.
 
I am told he was a really good boy! He had a thorough exam, received a booster of Lepto, and began his Lyme vaccine protocol. He weighed 19.8 kgs(43.56 pounds) at 4 days shy of four months of age.
 
He is not due for his DHPP booster until the 24th. We will have that one done at the same time as his Lyme booster.
 
He was given another de-wormer and placed on flea/tick preventative. Next month he will also start hw preventative.
 
He is booked for a professional groom session on the 16th of June – May have to confirm that is correct by looking at my calendar! – and we will then also do professional photos.
 
From there, he shall be ready to make his own special announcement!
 
This is him with the large stuffie I gave to the foster home for him. 
 
Nothing like having a surrogate litter mate or mama to help one settle in!
 

BHRR’s Asante(NewfX) is moving under a possible Pending Adoption.
 
We shall update as we can.

This is a merle female Great Dane that we have named ‘Fate.’ She is 11 months of age, and her previous O. only had her for one week before dumping her at a shelter in Quebec. The owner’s reasons – she jumped on them and chewed on a couch. She lived with a cat without issues, and the shelter has said that she has been indifferent to all of the dogs that she has seen.

The shelter spayed her, yet due to lack of space, they reached out to our Great Dane rescue for assistance. This Dane had begun to become anxious in the shelter. Very understandable. The shelter also de-wormed her with Strongid, put her on Revolution, and gave her Bordetella and DHPP vaccine. We will ensure that she receives boosters plus her Lyme/Lepto vaccines too. We will also do bloodwork to be assured that she is tickborne disease plus heartworm negative and place her on flea/tick/hw preventative. We are confirming with the shelter that she has had her rabies vaccine. If not, we will have that done too.

She weighs: 47.9 kgs(105.38 pounds)

We are busting her out! Date TBD, and we remain grateful to Tracey for stepping up as her foster family. They have fostered several dogs for us over the years, including BHRR’s Rosie plus our Saint sisters of BHRR’s Cagney and BHRR’s Lacey.

She is the fourth dog that we have been able to assist in 2023.

NOT YET AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION

Mr. Jack’s second eye enucleation has been scheduled for May 26th @ Eagleson Veterinary Clinic.
 
We have to raise another $2,000 for his surgery. His surgery will be over $3,000.
 
Our next driveway event is not until May 28th, and we need to remove that eye soon.
 
If anyone may consider his cause to support, donations can be made via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
We and Mr. Jack would be so grateful for any consideration! Thank you! 
 

Gosh! Isn’t Mr. Knox, the Bouvier, so unbelievably handsome?!!
 
Vet visit is tomorrow, Wednesday.
 
Thank you to his fabulous foster family for the great photo and for taking such excellent care of him!
 

AND Mr. Everest is now safe with his foster dad Damion!
 
Two very stressful transports today, yet, they are now completed.
 
Mr. Everest will be at the Vet on Friday, and Mr. Knox’s vet appointment will be booked for later this week.
 
These two are #2 & #3 that we have been able to bring into rescue in 2023.
 
 
 
 

Mr, Everest is still travelling great!
 
ETA was to be around 7 PM, yet the transport is running behind.
 
 

Mr. Everest is on his way!!

Said to be super affectionate, and hesitant about getting into cars which is understandable with all he has gone through in his short life, yet travelling like a champ! 
 
His transport includes 21 other animals, cats, kittens, and dogs plus a couple of puppies and so many caring volunteers giving of themselves in time plus gas to make this rescue transport successful.
He is scheduled for his Vet visit for vaccines, a thorough exam, re-check weight, to get more de-worming plus flea/tick/hw preventative on Friday.

Well, it was a stressful transport, yet Mr. Knox is now safe with one of his foster mama Bernie, and making his way back to their home(Rachel).
 
Now, we are just waiting for Mr. Everest to arrive safely to his own lovely foster dad, Damion‘s caring arms.
 
Both transports have been difficult, and I will indeed rest better tonight!
 
It takes an army sometimes to make these rescues possible, and my heart is filled with so much gratitude for so many!
 

Mr. Knox! The just turned 1-year-old Bouvier.
 
Having a snooze on his transport!    

He is said to be mellow, sweet, and a real big black beauty! AND loves to sniff the back of people’s necks on the transport! 

He is also said to be very strong yet adorable! A bit nervous yet doing ok.

Those lack of training and manners which shall change once he is in rescue.
 
He is doing fantabulous and loved by the volunteers on his own transport to safety with BHRR!

Our Drive-way Events of 2023!

1) Sunday, May 28th, 10 AM – 4 PM (Cynthia)
220 Beley Street, Brockville, ON

2) Saturday, June 3rd, 9 AM – 4 PM (Ronda)
54 Barnhart Drive, Long Sault, ON, K0C 1P0 

3) Sunday, June 11th, 10 AM – 4 PM (Katy)
(Wellington Village/Westboro area)

4) Saturday, June 17th, 9 AM – 4 PM (Ren’s Pets – Baseline) – Raffle Basket, Bake Sale Too
1385 Baseline Rd Unit 3, Ottawa, ON K2C 3G1

5) Sunday, June 25th, 10 AM – 4 PM – (The Maracles)
1728 Harvest Cres., Orleans, Ontario
*RAIN OR SHINE*

6) Saturday July 22nd, 2023 – Gananoque! Thousand Islands Bark Bash

7) Saturday, July 29th, 9 AM – 3 PM (BHRR)
2425 Totem Ranch Road West, Oxford Station, Ontario -*BBQ, Dog Collar/Leash & Horse Tack Sale Too

8) Saturday, August 19th, 10 AM – 2 PM – Brockville Hyundai
*Car Wash, Items for Sale, BBQ, NO SERVICES

9) Saturday, September 9th – BHRR Movie Event! -*BBQ, Silent Auction, Bonfires, Prizes Too
2425 Totem Ranch Road West, Oxford Station, Ontario

10) Saturday, September 23rd – 9 AM – 4 PM – Pet Valu Brockville
*Items for Sale, BBQ – NO SERVICES

 

This is a just-turned-1-year-old male neutered Bouvier. 
BORN: April 24th, 2022. Vaccinated (not due for DHPP & Rabies until August 17th, 2023) – we would do additional vaccines plus bloodwork as part of our protocols.Natural ears, natural tail.

The owner surrendered to the pound as he was too much of a giant puppy that the owners did not train. He jumped up on one of the owners, and they fell down – no injuries – and they feel he is too much for them.

He is affectionate, housebroken, excitable, curious, playful, friendly, and good with dogs, & children; lived with a min poodle, another Bouv, and a cat.

He was very gentle at the vets. And is now anxious at the shelter.

He needs to learn basic manners & to have more exercise to stimulate his brain and body.

The only exercise was daily walks when the owners were able to.
 
No bite history, just a big goof!
 
No known medical issues either.
 
 

A 3-month-old Great PyrX – said to be with Maremma
Born: January 16th, 2023

Weight as of April 25th, 14.8 kgs(32.56 pounds)

He was adopted out by the shelter and returned 3-4 days later, as the home was not prepared for a Giant Breed puppy!

He was initially bought off a Kijiji ad from a breeder, kept for three weeks, then dumped at the shelter. They did not have the time for a puppy.

He is a typical puppy that mouths, lacks manners, and, typical of his breed, has an intelligent, independent mind all of his own!

ETA: first weekend of May

Prior

*NOT YET AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION*

 

 

I think all is forgiven now! 
 
Back on his favourite folded thick duvet, in his favourite spot by my computer, and humbling me with that adorable, precious look on his face!
 
All is right in his world…mine too! 
 
Almost 15 years old and going strong! 

Someone is NOT happy!
 
BHRR’s James – who turns 15 years young next month was not impressed with me asking him to go outside in the rain.
 
His facial expression and body position are one of a very unhappy camper!!
 
He will not even look at me now & has taken to lying under the bench in the sunroom far away from me.
 
He usually has zero issues going out in the rain….his issues arise when it is NOT his idea or choice! 
 
In offering him a treat, but he would not accept it until I put it down….
 
You are a character Mr. James!
 

On April 20th, Mr. Jack was at EVC for a check with the Surgeon who will do his second eye enucleation. He was the same surgeon that did his first eye enucleation last August.

It was confirmed that his eye does need to be removed due to glaucoma.

This handsome Bean has been a bit sad since his littermate & one of his bff’s was adopted recently – Miss Bev, so I took Mr. Albar on a special date today. 

We picked out a new toy, went through Tim’s for a plain Timbit, and had a lovely drive with the sunroof open and a/c blowing! Then topped off our fun date with a visit to friends for a love fest on him!

You are adored, Mr. Albar!
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
BHRR’s Pentu is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
Standard Poodle/Bernese Mountain DogX
 


Health Status:
HEALTHY!

Age: ~9 months

Weight: ~75 pounds. Her last weight was March 24th, 2023, @ 66.88 pounds(30.4 kgs). We want to keep her lean/muscled and fit. Becoming fat is NOT in her or any dog’s best interest.

Some information from her wonderful foster mama:

“Pentu is social! She loves meeting new people and dogs and still always does the “deek between the legs” when she meets someone new or when someone comes into the house. She is playful and fun, loves playing with her toys, and is goofy and affectionate. She definitely loves her people and being close to them. She bonded really quickly and only got more affectionate. Will easily flop over on her back for a belly rub (from anyone that will give her one). When I sit on the couch at night, she will bring her toys and eggs me on to throw the toy so she can play.

She is a good walker. I put the Easy Walker harness on her, and she really thrives on it. I don’t think this is something that she will need for long, but it makes it much easier for me to walk two dogs at the same time I walk her and Simon together twice a day at a nice clip, so we are all getting exercise, and she does pretty good! The bunnies and birds on the ground are her new favourite distraction, and she will react in an excited way when she sees one of these little creatures.

She is very smart (when she wants to be, haha). She sits, stays, shakes a paw, responds to her name, and sometimes comes when called (a work in progress). We have been working on the name game where anytime she responds to her name, I give her a treat. She does take liberties in getting up on furniture, and I have to tell her OFF (she doesn’t always listen, and I have to go and remove her).

I think she is a wonderful family dog and is easily trained. She shows no signs of any type of aggression or anxiety. I think a family doesn’t need to have previous dog experience but, like your other requests, is committed to working on her training and obedience. She will make a family very happy indeed!!!

Here are a few highlights:
– Good with kids
– Good with other dogs
– Unknown about cats
– Good in cars
– Very playful and active, loves her toys (needs stimulation) and good exercise (I currently walk her twice a day)
– House and crate trained: she has not had one accident in the house! And I do put her in the crate when I go out…not that I think she would pee/poop in the house or destroy anything, more because she would get herself worked up and bark the whole time I was gone. She doesn’t hang out in her crate but has no problem going in there when asked. AND is a really good girl.”

Type of Home Ideal For Miss Pentu:
She is such a versatile girl – she is playful, gentle, loves her friends, walks, is calm when properly mentally plus physically stimulated, and is active. She is not a medium-maintenance personality dog – she is brilliant, and needs a solid structure. She interacts well with people/dogs she meets, and we hope for a quiet, socially low-active level home. A residence that, while visiting family plus friends and having people over, does not host frequent BBQs or gatherings of large groups. We do not want to see her in a home with a high level of travel, with other people taking care of her. She is loyal and loves her people, and we want her to be part of the family if they go camping, go to the cottage, or do other fun travels. She is social and needs a home that is like her. One that shall not overwhelm her. She would adore cottage life or hang out at home with her family. Visiting friends, family, pet stores, and pet-friendly places is excellent too. We want a quietly active home for Miss. Pentu. She is intelligent, healthy, and such a precious girl!” 

 

She MUST go to a home that will continue to work on exposing her to new, fun, and beautiful things in the world. Time, patience, and effort have gone into having her be comfortable in her skin, to not only like yet love her own company. We are not advocates of dog parks. Many private properties rent out space for acreage rentals so that he can enjoy a controlled environment to run and zoom in. We want her to look forward to the next adventures plus experiences. She needs a home that will give her new positive and great safe, memorable experiences. If you are a home that likes to take infrequent walks/hikes/strolls, Mr. Pentu is not for you…she is a healthy dog and needs to be kept emotionally and physically stimulated. She would make a great companion to get out into nature, explore, and enjoy the beach and other exciting adventures! She is also a great companion when watching movies or curled up with a good book. A home that understands and shall continue to help her learn about this big fantastic world that we live in. We want her to live a quality-filled, enriched life. She is being fostered in a lovely home in the Ottawa area yet can equally live comfortably in the city or country.

We want her to be happy and to live her best life every day. We want her to reach her full incredible potential! She is another versatile BHRR dog! She can be in a home that works ft; pt works from home, is semi-retired or retired, etc. She will ONLY go to a home prepared to ensure she receives the balance he requires with proper exercise, socialisation, etc. She does not need to go to a dog, nor a Standard Poodle or Bernese Mountain Dog-specific experienced home.

The home must be committed to her obedience, structure, and consistency, and to be patient, kind, and understanding, and while not hermits, they are not doing a hundred things each day or weekly, or monthly. We want her to be treated as a beloved member in a right-matched forever-loving home. We want her to be an invaluable member of her forever-loving adoptive home! She can be shy in new situations, requiring the right positive balance between patience, ‘tough’ love, calming assuring, and passively ignoring. She has been taught to share and that no human or dog will take her high-value food. She is fed in a quiet place and knows that she will be fed enough food on time and that no one will take her away.

She loves home and her friends.

Personality/Temperament: Super loving, affectionate, calm, happy sweet; she loves to get outside to romp and run and is a delightful, playful pup! She needs to be emotionally/physically properly stimulated, social, active, gentle, plus kind. She thrives with consistency, structure, routine, and clear open communication to understand precisely what is expected of her. She is an active healthy puppy!

Previous Dog Experience: Previous Dog experience is not required per the above, and she needs a home that is going to be committed to her wellbeing and make the small adjustments required as she is still a puppy, still learning, and still mentally plus physically growing. She sleeps well, and ideally like to see her in a home with at least one right-matched personality-fit dog. She needs a strong doggie friend network in the community though. That is so important. We have friends; she needs friends too. She has enjoyed meeting new canine friends.

Good With Cats: Unknown. Integration is key! She has been fine with the veterinary clinic cat at my work, yet Miss Pearl is not really a cat!

Good with Pocket Pets: Unknown

Good with Children: We feel that any right-matched personality fit home for Miss Pentu, should they have children, said children – no more than two in the house, should be over 12. So, we will consider homes that have older children for Miss Pentu

Grooming: She needs regular grooming to keep her coat healthy and look her best. Regular grooming includes nails and ears. We have also had her professionally groomed during her time in rescue.

Car: She travels well in the car.

Housebroken/crate Trained: She is housebroken and crate trained. We never recommend giving any new addition too much freedom to start. It can be very overwhelming plus too stimulating for them.

Obedience: She requires a home that will be consistent and dedicated to continuing to help her become the best dog she can be. Her potential is enormous! As per our adoption contract, a full round of group obedience is required with all of our dogs. This is not about having a dog that ‘listens.’ This is about creating a strong and mutually respectful bonding relationship. Trust and respect work both ways.

Activities Suited For Her: She would excel in obedience work. Great companion at home, a great companion for camping, cottaging, hikes, and exploring new things! She is a doll.

Loves & Bad Habits:
Like any dog, she is not perfect. She is perfect in all of her imperfections, though! NOT to mention gorgeous. She still shows some reluctance going into the Vet Hospital, and on the scale. We strongly recommend that right matched personality fit home for them to take trips to the Vets just to visit. Get treats, and some loving without any examinations, pokes or prods!Per her foster home: “Since she is a playful puppy, she plays with her mouth, and her sharp little teeth can hurt.

Barks – she does like her barking! With the big picture window and glass door, it is a recipe for barking. I do think she can be trained to use her voice more appropriately but will take some love and effort. When I can tell she is so fired up, a small time out (she is not in trouble tho) in her crate helps her relax.”

She is a fantastic dog! She is accepting and tolerant of so much! So low-medium maintenance!

Anxieties/Worries: It is integral that the right-matched personality fit home and does not spend 24/7 with her. During this pandemic and even before it, we still need groceries; we should still go out and do errands; we should still get in our cars and go for a small drive to go somewhere to do something! Time has been spent having her learn to not only like yet enjoy her own company. As we need our alone time, she must do too. She is a solid and stable dog; we do not want any SA behaviours to develop.

As we have stated for over 27 years now, we will NEVER rush any dogs’ rehabilitation journey, we do not flip dogs, and we are not desperate to adopt them out.

We will always place up for adoption the dogs that can be adopted and safe haven all others that cannot be placed up for adoption due to medical and/or behavioural reasons.

We do not take in hundreds of dogs yearly; we only took in 18 dogs in 2022 as it is about helping the next in need of us, giving them top-quality care, and not about taking in numbers. In 2023, we have ONLY taken in 1 dog to date.

After 27+ years, we know that we cannot please everyone, which means that BHRR is not the rescue to be followed, supported, and believed in by everyone. We remain small plus mighty, and as we go through this next transitional stage for BHRR, we shall continue to operate with a zero-tolerance approach, providing and beyond care to the animals.

Our mandates have never changed and will remain the same as long as we are around; the animals shall always be done right by as our priority.

Our adoption success rates remain second to no other group – 100% for over ten years of operating, and now 99% as we go through year 27, and we are excited as we go through this slow transition for BHRR!

You have done a THUMBS up job, Miss Pentu, and we are thrilled you are making your special announcement!

I wish I were sharing better news….
 
Per previous posts, Mr. Jack was at EVC on March 11th for issues with his remaining eye. Mr. Jack is one of our Three’s Company puppies. We lost one of his siblings, Miss Janet, due to cluster seizures. 
 
He was given eye drops after diagnostics were done, yet there was limited improvement. He was then dispensed another type of eye drops, and after talking in-depth to the Vet, he saw a second opinion was recommended. The Vet believed everything should have been resolved, so they wanted us to be proactive and seek another opinion.
 
As it was difficult to get him back in at EVC – appointment bookings are now being made a few weeks out – I scheduled him with one of the Vets he had seen at LAH to keep continuity.
 
Unfortunately, his eye has deteriorated quickly, and per his Vet that saw him yesterday:

‘With his third eyelid so exposed, it was hard to see and do IOP, but I got at least 2 readings, and they are higher at 32 mmHg…’

What we and his foster home had suspected is now happening, glaucoma.
 
So, now we are in an urgent situation of having to do a second eye enucleation for Mr. Jack. 
 
The one he had in August was just shy of $3,000.
 
Prices have gone up as of 2023, and I am waiting for an estimate and surgery booking to remove his eye ASAP.
 
Glaucoma is extremely painful, and he has special drops that his foster home picked up from the pharmacy to help control his pain. Thank you from our hearts to them for offering to pay for them.
So, the ‘race’ is on for us to raise at least $1,500 for a deposit for his surgery.
 
We will fundraise as we brainstorm ideas.
 
This is BHRR’S Jack with Beans the Rabbit! 
 
Donations for his cause – even $5 is not too small! – can be made via PayPal gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Mr. Jack and we would be so grateful for your consideration…. 
 

Very early this AM, Mr. Romeo, along with our GSP had an encounter with a porcupine. Sean let them out around 3 AM, thinking they needed to pee.
 
So, it was a costly emergency vet visit with both of them.
 
Here is Mr. Romeo – sedated for his quill removal and post-removal napping at home, recovering. One picture of our GSP, as he was also a bad baby!
 
May both of them not have ingested any, or many, and not be negatively impacted by them.

Today, I adopted out my #436th foster!
 
Bittersweet, as always.
 
BHRR’s Bev!
ADOPTED!
 
I wish to thank Elaine again for joining me on such short notice to do this home visit for a possible approved adoption of either Mr. Albar or Miss Bev.
 
Either pup would have been a right-matched personality fit – that is not all that common to have two so closely matched, yet when the application came in, these two were the ones I felt could be the best possible fits.
 
The home felt a deeper connection to Miss Bev.
 
It was hard to watch Mr. Albar as for all that know him, he loves women, yet adores men – Richard can well attest to that! – and he was so smitten with the man. Elaine & I both had our hearts wrench a bit at watching that knowing that he was not their chosen one.
 
Both pups travelled great in the car, first looking around, then snoozing snuggled up with each other, and the giant stuffies that folks know that I have for the dogs.
 
As I got closer to the home, Mr. Albar began to do a bit of drooling. He settled back down yet as I was literally parking, he puked on poor Miss Bev’s tail, and my back seat, and one of my large stuffies. Thank goodness for bags, Lysol wipes, and napkins in my car. Always travel prepared! 
 
Both were wonderful guests – they showed how smart they are with how well they are housebroken, they were well mannered, and Miss Bev showed how much fun carpeted stairs were! Mr. Albar picked up on that pretty quickly.
 
As I explained to this home, I put my heart and soul into each of our dogs; we go up and beyond on everything from vetting to food, to training to love plus spoiling to pictures, blog updates, etc., and that r/q rescue is not done by one person alone. THIS litter was surrounded by a village, a small yet mighty powerful one and the final cost of successfully rehabilitating them is over $30,000, and counting for their top-notch care continues. 
 
We work so hard to ensure that our dogs become assets to the home plus community. This litter was exposed to SO much as their individual blogs have been well documented as proof.
 
Elaine said to me this must be so hard to let them go, and it is! Miss Charm crippled me, and I only had her for mere hours before she passed away in my arms. Miss Ayla had me welling up, too when she was adopted. YET, I said so many times today, as I have so many times in the past, that I am so freakin’ proud of this litter and that if I have done my job right, now it is time to pass the torch and have their right matched personality fit adoptive homes do right by our dogs. We will always be here as a 24/7 resource, our contract states that our dogs must come back to us if for any reason the home cannot keep them any longer or care for them properly.
 
This is once again, not a goodbye, this is just a turning of a beautiful page in Miss Bev’s journey of life, and looking forward to the next pages plus chapters of the WOW adventures in her future!
As for Mr. Albar, the great experiences that you had today, just builds upon your already solid well, written resumé, and your own right-matched personality fit home is out there….the same goes for Miss Nola plus Miss Maybelle Cutie. My cherished Beans!
 
We are not in a rush, we are patient, and boy, do they ever live a grand life right now….as the weather warms back up, we are spending more and more time back outside – though in the winter, we also spent vast amounts of time outside too, planning for play dates, visits, and adventures!
 
AND a special treat was running into Margaret on my way out to do this home visit today, as she was dropping off some donations in our shed!
 
Our attention now turns to reviewing the applications that have been submitted for Miss Asante, and as always, we will only approve a right-matched personality fit home. We are patient and we keep our mandates of putting the dogs first as our priority – we know she is popular like so many other BHRR dogs and will update as we can.
 
Happy Good Friday to all!
 

Mr. Albar & Miss Bev on our way to the home visit for a possible approved adoption.

A glimpse of Miss Chrissy while filming the devastation from the ice storm.

VIDEO

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

BHRR’s Asante is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Health Status: HEALTHY!

Age: 9 months – Born: June 13th, 2022

Weight: 45.4 Kg – 99.88 pounds (March 2023). We want to keep her lean/muscled and fit. She had become chubby at one point, which was not in her best interest.

Type of Home Ideal For Miss  Asante: She is such a versatile girl – she is playful, gentle, loves her friends, walks, is calm, and is quite chill overall. She is not a high-maintenance personality dog. She interacts well with people/dogs she meets, and we hope for a quiet, socially low-active level home. A residence that, while visiting family plus friends and having people over, does not host frequent BBQs or gatherings of large groups. We do not want to see her in a home with a high level of travel, with other people taking care of her. She is loyal and loves her people, and we want her to be part of the family if they go camping, go to the cottage, or do other fun travels. She is social and needs a home that is like her. One that shall not overwhelm her. She would adore cottage life or hang out at home with her family. Visiting friends, family, pet stores, and pet-friendly places is excellent too. We want a quietly active home for Miss. Asante. She is intelligent, healthy, and such a precious girl!

She MUST go to a home that will continue to work on exposing her to new, fun, and beautiful things in the world. Time plus and effort has gone into having her be comfortable in her skin, to not only like yet love her own company. We are not advocates of dog parks. Many private properties rent out space for acreage rentals so that she can enjoy a controlled environment to run and zoom in.

We want her to look forward to the next adventures plus experiences. She needs a home that will give her new positive and great safe, memorable experiences. If you are a home that likes to take infrequent walks/hikes/strolls, Mr. Asante is not for you…she is a healthy dog and needs to be kept emotionally and physically stimulated. She would make a great companion to get out into nature, explore and even enjoy the beach and having other exciting adventures! She is also a great companion when watching movies or curling up with a good book.

A home that understands and shall continue to help her learn about this big fantastic world that we live in. We want her to live a quality-filled, enriched life. She is being fostered in a lovely home in the Ottawa area yet can equally live comfortably in the city or country.

We want her to be happy and to live her best life every day. We want her to reach her full incredible potential!

She is another versatile BHRR dog! She can be in a home that works ft; pt works from home, is semi-retired or retired, etc. She will ONLY go to a home prepared to ensure she receives the balance she requires with proper exercise, socialisation, etc.

She does not need to go to a dog, or even a Newf or Pyr experienced home. The home must be committed to her obedience, structure, and consistency, and to be patient, kind, and understanding, and while not hermits, they are not doing a hundred things each day or weekly, or monthly. We want her to be treated as a beloved member in a right-matched forever-loving home. We want her to be an invaluable member of her forever-loving adoptive home!

She has been taught to share and that no human or dog will take her high-value food. She is fed in a quiet place and knows that she will be fed enough food on time and that no one will take her food away.

She loves home and her friends.

Personality/Temperament: Super loving, affectionate, calm, happy sweet; she loves to get outside to romp and run and is a delightful, playful pup! She needs to be emotionally/physically properly stimulated, social, active, gentle, plus kind. She thrives with consistency, structure, routine, and clear open communication to understand precisely what is expected of her.

Previous Dog Experience: Previous Dog experience is not required per the above, yet a home that is going to be committed to her wellbeing and make the small adjustments required as she is still a puppy, still learning, and still mentally plus physically growing. She sleeps well, and while ideally like to see her in a home with at least one right-matched personality-fit dog – it is not mandatory. She needs a strong doggie friend network in the community though. That is so important. We have friends; she needs friends too. She has enjoyed meeting new canine friends.  

Good With Cats: She has been completely fine with the cats she has interacted with at the events at PV. One of the cats is loose in the store. Integration is key!

Good with Pocket Pets: Unknown

Good with Children: We feel that any right-matched personality fit home for Miss Asante, should they have children, that said children – no more than two in the house, should be over the age of 8. So, we will consider homes that have children for Miss Asante.

Grooming: She needs regular grooming to keep her coat healthy and look her best. Regular grooming includes nails and ears. We have also had her professionally groomed during her time in rescue.

Car: She travels well in the car.

Housebroken/crate Trained: She is housebroken and crate trained. We never recommend giving any new addition too much freedom to start. It can be very overwhelming plus too stimulating for them.

Obedience: She requires a home that will be consistent and dedicated to continuing to help her become the best dog that she can be. Her potential is enormous! As per our adoption contract, a full round of group obedience is required with all of our dogs. This is not about having a dog that ‘listens.’ This is about creating a strong and mutually respectful bonding relationship. Trust and respect work both ways.

Activities Suited For Her: She would excel in therapy work. She is a doll. Great companion at home, a great companion for camping, cottaging, small hikes, and exploring new things!

Loves & Bad Habits:  Like any dog, she is not perfect. She is perfect in all of her imperfections, though! NOT to mention gorgeous. She still shows some reluctance going into the Vet Hospital. We strongly recommend that her right matched personality fit home for them to take trips to the Vet just to visit. Get treats, and some loving without any examinations, pokes or prods!

She is an awesome dog! So low maintenance! She is accepting and tolerant of so much!

Anxieties/Worries: It is integral that the right-matched personality fit home does not spend 24/7 with her. During this pandemic and even before it, we still need groceries; we should still go out and do errands; we should still get in our cars and go for a small drive to go somewhere to do something! Time has been spent having her learn to not only like yet enjoy her own company. As we need our alone time, she must do too. She is a solid and stable dog, and we do not want any SA behaviours to develop.

As we have stated for over 27 years now, we will NEVER rush any dogs’ rehabilitation journey, we do not flip dogs, and we are not desperate to adopt them out.

We will always place up for adoption the dogs that can be adopted and safe haven all others that cannot be placed up for adoption due to medical and/or behavioural reasons.

We do not take in hundreds of dogs yearly; we only took in 18 dogs in 2022 as it is about helping the next in need of us, giving them top-quality care, and not about taking in numbers. In 2023, we have ONLY taken in 1 dog to date.

After 27+ years, we know that we cannot please everyone, which means that BHRR is not the rescue to be followed, supported, and believed in by everyone. We remain small plus mighty, and as we go through this next transitional stage for BHRR, we shall continue to operate with a zero-tolerance approach, providing and beyond care to the animals.

Our mandates have never changed and will remain the same as long as we are around; the animals shall always be done right by as our priority.

Our adoption success rates remain second to no other group – 100% for over ten years of operating, and now 99% as we go through year 27, and we are excited as we go through this slow transition for BHRR!

You have come so far, Miss. Asante, and we are delighted you are making your special announcement!

There are simply no words!!

Yes, Miss Pentu’s fabulous foster home respects the ‘no couch’ rule – and this is a rare exception.

Miss Pentu is such a hoot!!

Fantastic photo!!! It made my day!!

Miss Brooklyn is going to bunk with The Boerskins for a bit.
 
She had to be moved from her foster home & after we do some continued behavioural assessments/training plus medical testing – neuro – she will be heading to a perma-foster home.
 
We do not believe that it is in her best interest to be placed up for adoption.
 
PS: that is not a wound on her; that is a sun sparkle!
 

Miss Pentu – 8-month-old Berner/Standard PoodleX

Candid photo – totally hilarious! – from her professional photo shoot on March 27th.

She will make her own special announcement shortly.

Thank you again to her wonderful foster mama and to Liz for everything!

 
 
 
 
 

UPDATE: Per a previous post, Miss Rosie had a detailed blood panel done in addition to her thyroid levels plus exposure to Heartworm/Tickborne diseases when she was at the Vet on March 20th.

Her thyroid levels are low normal, so her Vet would like to increase her dosing from 0.5 mg BID to 0.6 mg BID, and despite having her Lyme vaccine and being on flea/tick preventative year round, she was positive for Lyme.

So, she is also on Doxycline for the next 28 days. One can do everything right, and still, **** happens. 

Her Vet bills are now over $1,000 for what was to be her annual Vet visit. Any donations to her cause can be made via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com

As mentioned, we are not in a position to bring in the senior English Mastiff, Marley, until we are in a better financial state. BHRR has only been able to bring in one dog to date in 2023; we sure would love to help more that are in urgent need of our highly specialised programs.

Here is another picture of Miss Rosie on the day of her Vet visit – as stated, she has lost close to 22 pounds since her arrival at BHRR. WTG!

 

Miss Pentu had her professional photos today!

Once they are received, she will then make her own special announcement.

So exciting! 

Thank you to her incredible foster Mama and Liz!

 

 

 

 

On March 6th, I received a message that Mr. Jacks’s foster home thought he may have had another seizure. They were not sure.
 
I asked them to journal, and we will document it in his records as a ‘possible.’
 
AND on March 11th, he was seen at EVC as his foster reached out that day saying his right eye was red.
 
Unfortunately, after treatment, his foster mom still feels it is red. So, I will be dropping off another type of drops for him.
 
This picture is from March 3rd of him and his big sis in his foster home.
 
Seizure History:
1) Seizure December 14th ~5:25 PM
2) Seizure December 15th ~12:58 PM
3) Seizure December 16th ~11:06 AM
*Dr. Levesque advises stopping the Clavaseptin & giving him at least a week or so and monitoring. Foster home to start a journal, too, to determine if there is any pattern.
4) Seizure December 16th ~6:30 PM
5) December 18th ~3:09 PM
6) ‘Possible’ seizure March 6th, 2023 – ~7:45 PM
 
He remains AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION.
 

Miss Pentu (Berner/Standard PoodleX) was at the Vet on March 21st for her re-weigh – 30.4 kgs(66.88 pounds).
 
She had her boosters, dispensed some eye meds for her eyes – a bit red, and given her next flea/tick/hw & de-worming meds. Her skin looks a bit dry – some dander – yet, overall is looking fantastic!
 
Night and day since she was first rescued.
 
She is on omega’s.
 
AND she was to have her professional photo session on the 23rd, yet the rain had a different idea.
 
Her photo shoot has been rescheduled to March 27. Thanks, Liz & Janie!
 
Shortly after that, she should be ready to make her own special announcement!
 
 

Miss Rosie was at the vet today for her annual – a wee bit late!
 
She weighed an amazing 31.4 kgs(69.08 pounds). Since her arrival, she has now lost a total of 9.9 kgs(21.78 pounds!). WTG!!! She looks so amazing!
 
Her body score is now at a 3+/5. She gets her thyroid tabs religiously every 12 hours, and today, we ran a blood panel – $235+tx to see how her thyroid is doing, did her annual heartworm/tickborne disease testing, plus a wellness blood panel.
 
She had her vaccines, a thorough exam, and lots of love!
 
Today’s Vet visit was just under $735, and this does not include her thyroid tabs – we are waiting to see the results of her bloodwork first.
 
To put our dire financial status in reality – even if we did an approved adoption this weekend of one of The Beans, their adoption fee would not even cover Miss Rosie’s annual/meds.
 
We receive $160/month in generous automatic PayPal donations, and one month will still not cover the remainder of Miss Rosie’s bill for today.
 
We have dogs like Miss Olive and Mr. Brutus, who are a combined close to $2,000/month in medications alone.
 
We sincerely do wish to help Miss Marley, yet we now also have to move Miss Brooklyn from her current foster home.
 
With each passing month, Sean/I come closer to the realization that we may not make it to 2032 per our slow transitional plan for BHRR.
 
This is our truth, and most of BHRR remains financed out of our own pockets, yet Sean/I are hoping to retire within 12-15 years and have to think about our futures too……
 
We never have and shall never cut corners with any dogs with vetting, food, and comfort needs. We have only been able to commit to one dog to date in 2023 – Miss Pentu, and it may not be possible to help Miss Marley. 
 
Miss Rosie does remain AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 

Stay Tuned!
 
Miss Asante (9 months old) shall be making her special announcement shortly.
 
Newf/Great PyrX
 
This is one of the pictures from her wonderful professional photo shoot – on March 16th with Liz!

Someone had her professional groom yesterday!
 
Isn’t she gorgeous?!!! 
 
Miss Pentu! The 8-month-old Bernese/Standard PoodleX.
 
She is at the vet next week for her boosters, a re-weigh, a recheck of her skin, and her next flea/tick & de-wormer!
 
She is super sweet, loved by all who meet her & doing great!!
 
Thank you again to her amazing foster mama for being incredibly generous and paying for Miss Pentu’s groom.
 

This stunning girl will have her professional photos done tomorrow with Liz.
 
Thank you again, Liz, for all you do for the community!!
 
Once, they are received, Miss Asante (Newf/PyrX) shall be ready to make her special announcement.
 
As with so many BHRR doggies, she has been quite popular – what is not to love? – and as with all of our dogs, only a right-matched personality home will be approved. 
 
Thank you’s being sent to her wonderful foster home for sharing this great photo of her.
 
You have come far BHRR’s Asante, and we are incredibly proud of you.
 
 

Miss Pentu was at the Vet on February 27th.
 
She weighed 29.5 kgs(64.9 pounds).
 
She is an 8-month-old Bernese Mountain dog/Standard Poodle mix.
 
Her skin was given a beautiful thumbs up, and the recommendation was to have her now placed on some Omega’s. The severe skin infections are resolving; yay!!
 
She had a big thumbs up on her heart and lungs and an overall exam.
 
We did bloodwork to see what her prior exposure to heartworm and tickborne disease was, and the tests were negative, so great news!
 
She went home with additional dewormer yet for some reason her Lyme/Lepto vaccines were not done nor was she given a dose of preventative for fleas/ticks.
 
Sooooo, she came back to the vet hospital the next evening when I was working, and I administered the vaccines plus dispensed a dose for flea/tick prevention.
 
It was amazing to see her again, plus her amazing foster mama!
 
AND here is a picture sent from her foster mama after her February 27th Vet visit. 
 
She looks like she is smiling!
 
That is BHRR’s Simon in the back. ADOPTED June 13th, 2022. I have been told these two have a grand time together & Miss Pentu is playful and loves toys.
 
Miss Pentu is booked for her professional groom on March 14th, and her next vet visit is on March 21st for boosters, a re-weigh, plus a recheck of her skin. We will obtain her next dose for fleas/ticks and another de-wormer dose then too.
 
If all goes well, she will be ready for her professional photo shoot by the beginning of April, then make her special announcement not long after that!
 
So much was done for her while we had her in emergency temp foster care in SWO, and we remain immensely grateful to the shelter for asking us to assist her! 
 

One more photo for today! 
 
This is BHRR’s Lilly(deaf/visually impaired Great Dane). A gorgeous Dane that is also in our Haven program.
 
She first arrived in rescue on August 1st, 2019.
 
Her previous owner invested much money into a ‘trainer’ who believed in shock plus prong collars. Her neck was raw, and all the punitive training methods made her behaviours worse.
 
The level of anxiety, stress, confusion, and fear this sweet Dane had was so heartbreaking. She was quite thin upon arrival, yet she was a growing Dane and was under a lot of strain. She was not housebroken upon arrival either, yet it did not take too long!
 
We successfully rehabbed her with positive, balanced training methods, and she was placed up for adoption on May 28th, 2020. We wanted a transitional adoption for her to ensure a successful outcome.
 
Unfortunately, there was so little interest in her & no right-matched forever-loving adoption applications came her way. Therefore, after two years of being up for adoption, she was moved to our Haven program, where she lives a grand life! 
 
When we commit to the next in need of us, it does not matter if they are adoptable, adopted, or not. We commit to them for the rest of their lives.
 
She is precious to us and a huge fav of so many BHRR supporters!
 
This is her relaxing in front of one of our fireplaces. All toasty and comfy.
 

Another elusive Dane! 
 
BHRR’s Athos!
 
One of our three Musketeers. He is hard to take photos of as his bff is Mr. Caramel. With Mr. Caramel’s terrified of cameras, we do not take many of Mr. Athos either.
 
Yet, today, I captured one handsome mantle boy! With a Bean – does anyone know which one? (Miss Maybelle Cutie!) & part of my one snow-dampened Wolfie Torin.
 
Mr. Athos has been up for adoption for just shy of two years – March 13th, 2021. Not one application has come in for him.
 
Come March 13th of this year, per previous posts, should his right-matched forever-loving home not find him, he will be placed in our haven program.
 
He is equally adored and cherished by all that know him!
 

*+-

BHRR’s Caramel!
 
One of our Haven Danes. 
 
I opened the window to talk to Sean – and Mr. Caramel poked his head in to say hello! 
 
This boy has come SO far since he arrived in rescue on December 20th, 2019.
 
Scared of literally everything, had stomach & skin issues and severe ear infections, and was good with female dogs yet only ok with male dogs smaller than him. With humans, he could be selective due to his fear yet warmed up given time.
 
Well……fast forward to today; his bff is Mr. Athos, another male Great Dane(one of our 3 Musketeers).
 
He loves The Beans – once he realised they would not eat him & he is fantastic with my two male Wolfies too.
 
He just needs time and patience, and understanding plus we do not baby him. We do not feed his anxieties & this boy is doing amazing!!!
 
We do not take a lot of pictures of him as the camera does terrify him, yet, I was able to snap this one fast after whipping out my phone when he poked his head through the window.
 
I love this boy. He is full of personality; we do not push him past his boundaries – we show him new plus exciting things, and he extends his boundaries when he is comfortable. His boundaries have gotten so much larger since his arrival.
 
I wish more people could see how wonderful he truly is….his owner discarded him like trash to a shelter.
 
Well, we adore him….he is safe & he lives a grand life with us.
 
 

This is Miss Brooklyn making a new friend on a walk!

 

According to Miss Pentu’s foster mama, she is already exploring!
 
I cannot wait to get her professionally groomed when she is ready so she can feel plus look her best. 
 
She was super popular on the long transport, and not hard to see why. Such a sweetheart!
Thanks to her wonderful foster mama for sharing this photo!
 

Got her!!
 
On my way to meet up with Janie in Kanata!
 
She is beyond lovely!!! Miss Pentu, it is a true pleasure to meet you finally!
 
Welcome to the BHRR family! 

AND Miss Pentu is on her way!
 
She is an 8-month-old Bernese Mountain Dog/Standard Poodle mix. She is said to be about 62 pounds and tomorrow we will get a re-weigh.
 
She began travelling super early this AM. I am being told she is a sweetheart! She is travelling with quite a few cats and a couple of very young pups & doing fantastic.
 
I will be meeting the volunteer transport early evening and then driving her to her fabulous foster mama, Janie!
 
I also want to thank one of my own Great Danes for donating one of her gently used collars and leashes to give to Miss Pentu. Every girl should feel/look beautiful!
 
I want to thank her soon-to-be foster Mama for extremely generously offering to pay for her food & buying her an XL Costco dog bed, plus offered to pay for her professional groom. Humbled!
 
The Beans are to be thanked, too, for donating some of their toys plus a bag of fish-based treats to Miss Pentu. We will figure out more toys & fish-based treats once payday comes.
 
Tomorrow, she is off to the Vet & as previously posted, we are going to use Mr. Bruce’s adoption fee to help go towards her, which are going to be extensive vet bills as she is rehabilitated.
Soon beautiful girl…..we will meet soon. We have been working on saving you since January….
 
Safe travel wishes are being sent to all!
 
 

Miss Pentu is scheduled to arrive tomorrow. She is a Bernese Mountain Dog/Standard PoodleX. This is not a purebred.

This is a picture from the shelter of her, and here is some information from her report. She was spayed at the end of January and has been in a foster home via the shelter until transport could be arranged to us.

“pulls a bit when walking but needs help to be more confident; she is shy. Fearful of loud noises, cars/trucks going past, other animals, and stairs. Happy, calm and relaxed riding loose in the car. Some pulling on walks but mostly fine – she is scared of strange people and dogs. Issues chewing things they shouldn’t; she meets another dog the first thing she does is hide. She normally cowers. more nervous if you’re standing vs. if you crouch.”

Once comfortable, she can be that excited, mouthy, jumpy puppy. So manners 101 will be implemented upon her arrival! We are told that she is a nice girl and sweet.

She is booked to see our Veterinary team on Monday, February 27th. She will get her DHPP booster, her first Lepto and Lyme vaccines, a re-weigh, placed on flea/tick preventative, obtain more de-wormer, have her skin checked, have a thorough exam, and have some bloodwork done.

She had her rabies, bordetella, and first DHPP plus was routinely de-wormed while in the shelter.

We are told that she presently weighs about 62 pounds, and we look forward to meeting her! Gwen will be picking her up from the volunteer transport, and dropping her off at her foster home in Kanata. Thank you again Janie for stepping up to foster this beautiful girl!

 

From Mr. Jack’s lovely foster mama….AND, I am told that Mr. Jack did get off the couch when his foster mama noticed. 
 
Nothing like an afternoon nap with one of the best kitties in the world, Fig! 
 
We are also told:

“Jack is doing great! He is a big ball of wonderful energy and is so affectionate. He loves his toys he got for Christmas and loves playing tug with Phoebe.”

His sister Miss Chrissy will be going up for adoption shortly. We deliberately kept from posting her up for adoption as it was best for Miss Janet to have her sister. With Miss Janet’s tragic passing due to cluster seizures, Miss Chrissy will go up for adoption.

The dog that misses Miss Janet the most though is one of our own Danes. Those two were mischievous peas in a pod!

Mr. Jack remains AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Today, BHRR approved its first adoption of 2023!

BHRR’s Bruce
ADOPTED!

It is also our 435th adoption since our inception in 1996!

Small and mighty, we remain!

Mr. Bruce, you really are a dream, Dane. Just a dream. I have had the absolute honour of not only being contacted to bring you into our rescue, yet getting to see you at Vet visits, visiting you when dropping off food, goodies, SS pressies, and even taking you to some Vet visits.

Then, we got to have an overnight together last night, and yup, the relationship that we have forged slowly over the past months was as strong as ever!

Then, tonight…your home visit…..you made me proud! Your progress – your SA was so heart-wrenching, your emaciation level equally so when you first arrived -, with your trust, that while you would check in with me regularly and had moments of being unsure, you were also willing to explore, munch on your delicious smoked dino bone, to drink, and be curious, demonstrated how far you have come. That you are genuinely ready for this next big step.

We cannot thank the shelter enough for reaching out to us to assist you; we cannot thank your emerge foster mama enough for safe harbouring you; we cannot thank your temp foster mama enough for taking excellent care of you, we cannot thank our expert Vet Team, our amazing supporters enough either for helping us that included the kind angel that bought you your own Wiggle bumz collar/leash to every person at the Tim’s drive-thru for the kind hands plus touches.

AND thank you to your forever-loving adoptive mama for going through our thorough adoption process to help ensure that you are the right Dane for them and vice versa!

Remember, dear boy; this is not a goodbye; this is a hello to a new wonderful human member being welcomed into the BHRR family clan! Your village shall forever surround you and your human

Mr. Bruce’s adoption fee will be used to help Miss Pentu – thank you again to Janie Wall for stepping up to be her awesome temp foster mama – who arrives this Sunday! She is heading to the Vet on the 27th, and we know that her own vet bills shall be vast as we deal with her skin issues.

As we continue to struggle with finances to keep BHRR afloat, Miss Pentu is our first save of 2023. She is the next in need of us!

The BHRR CHAIN of SUCCESS continues strong as we slowly transition over the next ~9 years!

 

 

We are on our way!
 
To Mr. Bruce’s home visit for a possible approved adoption.
 
This Dane is truly a dream!
 
The best of houseguests – we brought him into our own home as of last night from his wonderful temp foster, so happy to see him again!- and it has been an honour having him in our rescue program.
 
AND if this is not his right-matched forever-loving adoptive home, that is ok.
 
We will update as we can!
 
 

Our 4th Annual ‘Won’t You Be My Valentine’ Fundraiser is live!

LAST CALL!

Our Annual ‘Won’t You Be My Valentine’ Fundraiser is live!

Running through until the end of the day tomorrow, February 15!

Please help us give each doggie a special Valentine!

Thank you to everyone that has become a Valentine Angel to date, and to those asking, here is our email transfer address to send the vet bill part of your generous donation: contactbhrr@gmail.com

Please let us know if you would like to be a Secret Valentine!

Thanks in advance for any consideration!

Miss Asante has her two-week post-op checkup today at 5 PM at EVC.
 
This picture was sent to us 1-week post-op by her foster family.
 
Gwen has also asked for more Dermaaxx as the radiologist, plus her expert vet team has determined that she has a growing condition, which is most likely Pano. She is on strict exercise not just because of her healing eyes yet for her body.
 
She has responded well to the Dermaxx, and Gwen would like the foster to have more on hand.
 
We are also very curious re: her weight as, at one point, she had been a bit chubby. Her caring foster home has been super diligent plus dedicated to her well-being, and we cannot thank them enough for all that they have done and are doing for Miss Asante.
 
Should Miss Asante get the thumbs up today after her recheck, we will be working on her professional photo shoot, and from there, she will be ready to make her own special announcement!
 

Mr. Bruce would like to share the exciting news that he is moving under a PENDING ADOPTION!

We shall update as we can.

He is such an unbelievably awesome Dane!

***February 3rd is Gwennie’s Birthday!***

In her honour we are hoping to raise $500 to help with BHRR’s Brooklyn’s Cardio Vet Bills.

Donations can be made via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org OR via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com

Total Raised: $575

This does not look awkward at all!!!

Miss Brooklyn, the Dane with her beautiful foster sister River & her adopted brother BHRR’S Chester! 

Thanks to her foster home for sending this awesome photo!

 

Pentu — is Finnish for puppy.

Thanks to the Finnish animal population control, an incredibly low number of dogs are in need of adoption. How wonderful! We can only hope to be the same one day.

Pentu is what we have named this newest addition, the first of 2023 that we are working on an ETA to BHRR – after February 7th. She is a 7-month-old Bernese/Standard Poodle cross puppy that has skin issues. She has been in no less than four homes since she was born.

We will update as we can!

Miss Asante had her bilateral cherry eye surgery today.
 
Last Saturday, she weighed 40 kgs. Not sure of her weight today – as I could not get to work – and her foster home is working on seeing her lose a few pounds, as she was chubby last weekend. 
 
***We are still $800 short; any consideration would be so appreciated!!!***
 
The surgery went well, they were finished around 12:40 pm, and she stayed to recover.
 
I asked for a second cone as we have to make sure any risks to her eyes are minimal to nonexistent. If one cone breaks, her foster family will have a backup and if they do not use it, we will have it for another BHRR doggie.
 
The failure rate is high with cherry eyes and she is a Newf, a giant breed, still a puppy, and had surgery that failed on one eye already.
 
We will do all we can to ensure the success rate is there….
 
So many to thank for coming together with donations, fundraising, empties, and support! 
 
Any donations to help us with her bills can be made via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
 
 

TO DONATE: PayPal gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer to contactbhrr@grmail.com

On January 18th, Miss Brooklyn was back in to see the Vet.

This is her face….
 
We also did her cardiac X-rays and a cardio pet reading. Then those were sent off along with her records, including the latest findings from this Vet visit to a cardiologist to review as we found out that she had a heart murmur. One Vet thought it was a 3 when she was first at EVC. The Vet that saw her on the 18th felt it was a 1. We needed to be proactive to find out what is happening with Miss Brooklyn.
 
I had put $1,500 of what had been sent to date as a deposit for Miss Asante’s bilateral eye surgery on the 26th as I can only put so much money down at one time – card limits – and within the blink of an eye that amount has been eaten up by Miss Brooklyn and Miss Asante’s other vet visit.  I had planned on putting down money daily over a few days until the total amount for her surgery had been placed on account at EVC.
 
We have had a generous $100 donated over the past week and now still need to make up $1,400 for Miss Asante’s surgery.
 
Every year it becomes harder and harder as bills increase for vetting and food etc.  BHRR remains mostly financed out of pockets of Sean & and lately, we have been paying for special fish-based food for almost 8 dogs along with bills such as Miss Olives’ almost $1,200 monthly medications. We also pay for Mr. Brutus’ medications at almost $700 a month.
 
I am working two jobs to ensure each animal lacks nothing.
 
We also cover most of the monthly flea/tick/hw plus deworming meds for the dogs, treats, toys, collars, leashes, dog beds, and cleaning supplies.
 
Unfortunately, this is just not sustainable. After being in operation since 1996, each month is becoming so much harder than the previous one.
 
Any consideration would be so appreciated…and we have our Empties collection program too!
 
 
 

Mr. Bruce, the Dane!
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
This is him and ‘his’ cat!  Buddies!
 
AND yes, his amazing foster has begun to cut back on his food, so his booty will not be so bountiful! 
 
He is just a joy!!!

Sorry for the lack of posts. We have had some urgent vet visits for some of the dogs, and Miss Asante is just one of them for this week.
 
I had sent an email to her fosters regarding her upcoming bilateral cherry eye surgery on the 26th and was informed that she has been doing some intermittent limping over the past week.
 
This could be a minor or a major thing so we got her into EVC this AM.
 
X-rays were done, and at first look, the vet thought she might have a fractured anconeal process on the one elbow. So X-rays were then taken of the other elbow and they both look similar. This should have been fused by her age – and have not – and so the x-rays have now been paid to be sent off to the radiologist for their own expert opinion.
 
In the meantime, she has been placed on NSAIDS – Deramaxx to see if they may help.
 
We will update as we can.
 

Just two close buds watching Mason plow the 25+ cms of snow we received.

Then staring at me when I disturbed their Mason watching!

Two peas in a pod, from their high-level energy to their intense need to almost become part of their humans when cuddling! 

The muscles that these two boyz pack are insane….rock solid!

Mr. Romeo (AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION) & our Tango(GSP).

 

Miss Brooklyn was at the Vet today for boosters and a re-weigh. She is two weeks into her heat.
 
She weighed 43.4 kg. She has put on just shy of 3 kgs since her last Vet visit.
 
She is so undersocialized, so once again, she had trazodone to help with her anxiety for her trip to the Vet.
 
We are also in conversation regarding the possibility of using a heart protocol to get her spayed in the future.
 

Should BHRR’s Athos right-matched forever, loving adoptive home not find him by March 2023, we will move him to our Haven Program. We adore you, and you shall be cherished for life, a great quality filled live shall continue to be yours, you handsome dude!

Mr. Jack’s seizure update:

He had his first seizure on December 14th. He had his last seizure on December 18th. He had his last Nexgard Spectra on December 5th, and on December 6th, he was at EVC for a UTI. He was then placed on Clavaseptin. Both medications lower the seizure threshold. He had been on Nexgard Spectra without any issues since his arrival. With the combination of medications, I reached out to one of our Vets as I am aware that these medications can lower the seizure threshold, he was now on two meds, plus he is a DM dog.

We had a conversation with one of our Vets at LAH, Dr. Levesque, and the recommendation was to stop the Clavaseptin and give him several weeks. As he had been not having any more signs of incontinence and had three doses left, his foster home was advised to stop giving the antibiotics.

Two Veterinarians observed the video sent of his seizure.

Seizure History:
1) Seizure December 14th ~5:25 PM
2) Seizure December 15th ~12:58 PM
3) Seizure December 16th ~11:06 AM
*Dr. Levesque advises stopping the Clavaseptin & giving him at least a week or so and monitoring. Foster home to start a journal, too, to determine if there is any pattern.
4) Seizure December 16th ~6:30 PM
5) December 18th ~3:09 PM

No seizures since. Being a DM and that his sister Miss Janet has IS, it is understandable that he would have a lower seizure threshold.

This is Mr. Jack playing with one of his special secret Santa pressies!
 
Thanks to his lovely foster family for the pic!
 
As most are aware, he has been having seizures, the poor wee adorable dude.

BHRR’s Bruce sends a big THANK YOU to his special secret Santa – Elaine G., for the amazing gifts!
 
He remains AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
Thank you to his wonderful foster home for sharing this photo.
 

Miss Brooklyn is wearing her Earth-rated bandana!
 
Thanks to her foster home for sending a picture!
 
They will send more with the poop bag/dispenser, too so we can share with Earth Rated.
 
Miss Brooklyn is working on appropriate displays of behaviour including not being a bossy bully, barking, and sharing the humans.
 
She is an 18-month-old giant-sized brat and I was glad I had the chance to see her again this week for boot camp it is. There is no excuse for poor manners….she will learn. She will have structure, consistency, rules, routine, obedience, patience, and time.
 
She even does some inappropriate urination to express her feelings when humans do not jump and jump fast to her every wish. Yes, per a previous post, we also did a thorough exam and urinalysis. This is not medical.
 
She needs to learn that she is the dog that the humans will take care of, that she does not get all she wants when she wants, and to self-comfort, self-love, self-amuse plus to enjoy her own company.
 
The force is strong in this one! 
 

This is Miss Brooklyn.
 
She is our newest intake and was at the Vet yesterday.
 
You can see from this picture – and it is no lie – she is painfully thin, borderline emaciated.
 
She weighed barely over 90 pounds and should weigh closer to 110 – 115 pounds.
 
She also is so scared plus anxious. Lots of inappropriate displays of barking too.
 
She was given trazodone the night before her apt. and the morning of.
 
She was such a good and brave girl when I took her blood to run pre-op bloodwork along with heartworm and tickborne disease testing. Her bloodwork is normal, and she was negative for heartworm and tick-borne diseases.
 
Her foster mentioned her happy tail was bleeding, which is not infected, and she needs to keep it quiet. We have taught many a dog the ‘quiet tail’ command. If need be, and we have only ever done this once due to such a severe tail injury, amputated a small portion.
 
She is not eating anywhere near the minimum of 8 cups of food she should and is not drinking the amount she should. We have her on some wet canned food mixed with a new kibble plus water.
 
We learned that she has a supposed chicken allergy, and while we had been told she had a heart murmur, it is actually a Grade III. We cannot put her under sedation/anesthesia without knowing more.
 
The foster mentioned two nights out of three for accidents in her crate, so I advised to bring in a urine sample. Only after it was run and I was on break from surgery – did I see the text – I am at work! – that last night (night 4), there were no accidents. That would have indicated that this is not an infection, yet most likely behavioural yet, we are diligent! So a full urinalysis was done. 
The urine did not indicate any infection, yet it did confirm her dehydration.
 
We have her on flea/tick and also de-worming meds, too, plus she received her Lepto plus Lyme vaccines. She will go back for boosters in a month, and we will get a re-weigh at that time.
 
 
 
 

Mr. Bruce, a fawn merle/brindle Great Dane is settling nicely into his new foster home!
 
He has a great older foster doggie sister and he adores the pigs, cows plus horses yet chickens and roosters are scary to him! 
 
Such a solid boy who has proven to also do well with cats plus rabbits.
 
He does like his counter surfing, too, so that is a continued work in progress!
 
Thank you to his amazing foster mama for sending this beautiful picture.
 
He is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION
 

AND Miss Brooklyn is now with us! 18-month-old female heavily marked mantle Great Dane.
 
Thank you to her wonderful fosters for picking her up & she is scheduled for her first vet visit on the 14th. We need to do some vaccines, a heartworm/tickborne disease test & pre-op bloodwork, as she is not spayed. She will have a thorough exam and be placed on monthly – at this time of year, heartworm preventative is not needed – flea/tick meds plus a proactive/preventative de-wormer.
 
For those who may not know, the spay alone for a Giant Breed is close to $1,200 at many places.
 
Theresa P., this is your special Secret Santa!
 
As she settles in, her foster will know more about what she needs and loves!

NOTICE:
 
BHRR does not adopt out during the XMAS season due to our position that it is not in the best interest of any new addition being added during such a busy, exciting, and somewhat stressful time for many.
 
Quite a few other Rescues, Shelters, Pounds, etc., have also begun to follow a similar protocol to what we have been doing for over 26 years.
 
Our XMAS Shut down period for this year is from Monday, December 19th, 2022, to Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023, inclusive.
 
Any applications received during this time will be processed/reviewed as of Wednesday, January 4th, 2023!
 
During this time, BHRR is always available 24/7 for requests for assistance of animals in need, and we shall then network accordingly as the local Great Dane/Giant Breed Rescue since 1996, the welfare of the animals is our top priority. We do not wish to see any animal end up in a disreputable place, of which, sadly, there are far too many out there.
 
Thank you for your continued understanding – The BHRR Team
 
 

As much as we try, we seem to not be able to get ahead on Vet Bills.
 
Mr. Jack was at Eagleson Veterinary Clinic tonight, as his foster informed me that he had been having some incontinence.
 
If anyone may consider donating to his Vet bills, we would be incredibly appreciative. We are trying to raise enough funds to pay for Miss Asante’s bilateral cherry eye surgery and have the newest addition to BHRR, arriving on the 11th – Miss Brooklyn. She will require her own extensive vetting.
 
Any donation considerations can be made via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org
 
OR via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
As always, we are humbled by any support given…..
 
 
 

Thank you to Pet Valu Brockville for hosting us today!
 
Wishing Kevin, the feline an amazing 7th Birthday again & for sharing his special day with us!
 
Thank you to Richard, Carol & Katherine for the vegan chili, the baked goodies, the buns, spoons etc., all of their organisational assistance, and for being so awesome!
 
Thank you to Tanya  – the foster mama, for bringing BHRR’s Asante to this event so that people could meet firsthand who they are supporting! Thank you also for the incredible baking!
 
Thank you to each and every kind soul that came out in support, spent some time talking to us, loving on our Miss Asante, and helping us to get closer to our goal of having her bilateral cherry eye surgery!
 
Today, a heartwarming $780.30 was raised for Miss Asante, our five-month-old NewfX. 
 
We only need just over $2,500 more to repair her eyes!!! Getting there.
 
Please consider saving your Empties this holiday season to help us raise what we still need. 
 
 

Today, I adopted out my #434 foster!
 
BHRR’s Agatha – ADOPTED!
Born: December 23rd, 2021
 
AND this was another bittersweet one for me.
 
AND I know that as hard as it was on me, it was hardest on my own GD that is just one week younger than Miss Agatha, and on Miss Aggie herself. 
 
Last night Miss Agatha just knew something was a bit different. This home visit was rescheduled from last Sunday as our area received 30 cms of snow.
 
Miss Agatha, normally appropriately independent, was somewhat needy of me and kept close to her BFF, my female GD, and so last night, I let them sleep together. Miss Agatha did not sleep in her colossal crate. She even had some anxiety in the car today as we drove the one+ hour to the home visit. She did settle down nicely.
 
Those two complement each other magnificently.
 
Yet, we knew that if Miss Agatha could be successfully rehabilitated – she was anything but a well-mannered, solid, social, sharing young lady when she arrived, not to mention her anxiety level – that we would love to see her in the right match personality fit home, other than ours.
 
We taught her a lot re: children and that while they are fast, spastic, loud, unpredictable creatures, they can also be fantastic treat dispensers!
 
Miss Agatha, you demonstrated your impeccable manners plus bravery today. Your curiousity plus a sense of adventure saw you willing to explore, and your check-ins to me were 100% thumbs up.
 
You sat and stuck a sit/stay, waited patiently while your forever adoptive humans stepped inside the house and came back to you sitting rock solid in the same spot, and took treats gently, and I am bursting with so much pride – some tears too!
 
I am going to dearly miss your bigger-than-life personality, the incredible love of life that you have, your gorgeous fly-away nun ears, looking into your stunning dark brown eyes, touching your sleek, healthy gorgeous coat, getting your snuffles and sniffles of curiousity smelling my hair, searching for the treats in my pockets, and sitting so proudly for those treats you found.
 
Though small, you are mighty, and your glorious positive energy fills a room when you walk into it, and in new situations, as soon as someone gives you a treat, you are comfortable plus relaxed.
 
Your trust in me has humbled me immensely. You have made me a better owner, trainer, behavioural expert, rescuer, foster mama, and person in having been privileged to have you as a cherished member of my heart plus home Miss Agatha!
 
Your adventures shall continue, and though it is with a new, forever, loving family, I shall be there in your own heart as you experience them to your fullest!
 
Your future chapters are going to be incredible, and thank you to Cassy Montgomery for doing this home visit with me!
 
I already miss you, BHRR’s Agatha, yet your home has told me that you had a small walk, a big pee finally, and are snoozing by their feet…….
 
It was a BIG day, a wonderful day! Happy early 1-year Birthday to you!
 
 
 

Miss Asante was at Eagleson Veterinary Clinic today for a consult for her bilateral cherry eyes.

We shall update as we can!

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
BHRR’s Bruce, a Great Dane is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
Health Status: HEALTHY!
 
Age: ~3 years old
 
Weight: 56 Kgs(November 18th, 2022). We want to keep him lean/muscled, and fit. He could use a few more pounds as he builds up further muscle mass/tones.
 
Type of Home Ideal For Mr. Bruce: He loves his walks, and hikes, and getting so much better with car rides – he still has some anxiety – and interacts well with people/dogs he meets, and we are hoping for a quiet, socially low-active level home. A residence that, while visiting family plus friends and having people over, does not host frequent BBQs or gatherings of large groups. We do not want to see him in a home with a high level of travel, with other people taking care of him. He is loyal and loves his humans, and we want him to be part of the family if they go camping, go to the cottage, or do other fun travels. His quietly social and needs a home that is like him. He would adore cottage life or hang out at home with his family. Visiting friends, family, pet stores, and pet-friendly places is excellent too. We want an active home for Mr. Bruce. He is intelligent, healthy, and such a wonderful boy!
 
He MUST go to a home that will continue to work on his anxiety. He takes some time to settle down in a car while travelling. He will pace and sometimes whine before lying down. He is a lot better than he was, yet he still worries. As he was dumped at a shelter after his owner died, understandable that car rides still have a negative connotation for him. So much time and effort have gone into having him be comfortable in his own skin, to not only like yet love his own company. He charges into new situations with enthusiasm! A home that understands and shall continue to help him learn about this big fantastic world that we live in. We want him to live a quality, filled, wonderful life rich with experiences. He is being fostered in a beautiful home in the Kemptville area yet can equally live comfortably in the city or country.
 
We want him to be happy and to live his best life every day. We want him to reach his full potential! He is another versatile BHRR dog! He can be in a home that works ft; pt works from home is semi-retired or retired, etc. He will ONLY go to a home prepared to ensure that he receives the balance he requires with proper exercise, socialisation, etc. He does not need to go to a dog or even a Dane-experienced home. The home must be committed to his obedience, structure, and consistency, and to be patient, kind, and understanding, and while not hermits, they are not doing a hundred things each day. We want him to be treated as a cherished member in a right-matched forever-loving home. We want him to be a cherished member of his forever-loving adoptive home! He shares the communal water bowls and toys and understands that no human or dog will take his high-value food. He is fed in a quiet place and knows that he will be fed enough food, fed on time and that no one will take his food away.
 
He loves home and his friends – he needs canine friends! He also loves to explore, go on hikes, walks, and working on car rides, and visit people/places that are not over the top busy. We are not advocates of dog parks. Many private properties rent out space for acreage rentals so that he can enjoy a controlled environment to run and zoom in. He needs a home that will give him new positive and great safe, memorable experiences. If you are a home that likes to take infrequent walks/hikes/strolls, Mr. Bruce is not for you…he is a healthy dog and needs to be kept emotionally and physically stimulated. He would make a great companion to get out into nature, explore and even enjoy the beach and having other exciting adventures! He is so unbelievably affectionate!
 
Personality/Temperament: Super loving, affectionate, and calm, yet does get excited as he is incredibly happy and sweet; and he loves to get outside to romp and run and is a delightful, playful pup! Not the most coordinated or graceful to watch! He needs to be emotionally/physically properly stimulated, incredibly social, active, affectionate, gentle, plus kind. He thrives with consistency, structure, routine, and clear open communication to understand exactly what is expected of him. He is SO praise-motivated. His whole body demonstrates how happy he is!
 
Previous Dog Experience: Previous Dane experience is not required per the above, yet a home that is going to be committed to his wellbeing and make the small adjustments required as he does have some anxiety in the car. He does well overnight in his crate – he has been getting some trazodone before bed as needed. He is an EARLY rise! While we would ideally like to see him in a home with at least one right-matched personality fit dog – it is not a deal-breaker. He needs a strong doggie friend network. That is so important. We have friends; he needs friends too. He has enjoyed meeting other dogs!
 
Good With Cats: He has been good with LAH’s clinic cat, and he is fine with one of the cats in his foster home.
 
Good with Pocket Pets: His foster home has rabbits.
 
Good with Children: NO small children. Children are fast, flighty, unpredictable, spastic, plus loud. We will consider homes with responsible children 10+ and no more than two children in the house. A home without children is our first preference, as we want Mr. Bruce to be the priority. He has not had any issues with children. We would consider homes with younger children, yet, it would have to be an exceptional home.
 
Grooming: He is fine to wash and do his nails. He needs regular grooming to keep his coat healthy and looking his best.
 
Car: He still has some anxiety in the car. He will settle down yet, will pace, and turn around. Telling him gently that he is ok and passively ignoring is huge.
 
Housebroken/crate Trained: He is housebroken and crate trained. We never recommend that any new addition be given too much freedom to start. It can be very overwhelming plus too stimulating for them.
 
Obedience: He requires a home that will be consistent and dedicated to continuing to help him become the best dog that he can be. His potential is enormous! As per our adoption contract, a full round of group obedience is required with all of our dogs. This is not about having a dog that ‘listens.’ This is about creating a strong and mutually respectful bonding relationship. Trust and respect work both ways.
 
Activities Suited For Him: He would excel in obedience, and I wonder when his brain is mature if he would not make a WOW therapy dog. He is such a riot! Makes me laugh! So eager to please!
 
He is precious. He will be a champion amazing companion to watch movies, the sunset, long walks on the beach, small hikes in the mountains, etc. He is awesomeness!
 
Loves & Bad Habits: Like any dog, he is not perfect. He is perfect in all of his imperfections, though! NOT to mention super handsome with a fawn merle colour. He can have some anxiety, particularly in the car. He LOVES everything! He lives in a home with rabbits, cats, and other dogs. He is still a bit of a ‘bull in a china shop’ with his leash manners. He has pretty much ZERO interpersonal space issues, has the Dane lean, and loves to be around his human and animal friends! He is excited about living and the world! He has been so gentle about taking treats, yet sometimes needs a reminder to be gentle.
 
He is an awesome dog! So low maintenance! He LOVES everyone and everything!
 
Anxieties/Worries: It is integral that the right-matched personality fit home does not spend 24/7 with him. During this pandemic and even before it, we still need groceries; we should still go out and do errands; we should still get in our cars and go for a small drive to go somewhere to do something! Time has been spent having him learn to not only like yet enjoy his own company. As we need our alone time, he must do too. He is a solid and stable dog, and we do not want any SA behaviours to develop. His foster has worked hard on his anxiety in the car and with crate training.
 
As we have stated for over 26 years now, we will NEVER rush any dogs’ rehabilitation journey, we do not flip dogs, and we are not desperate to adopt them out.
We will always place up for adoption the dogs that can be adopted and safe haven all others that cannot be placed up for adoption due to medical and/or behavioural reasons.
We do not take in hundreds of dogs yearly; we only took in 6 dogs in 2021 as it is about helping the next in need of us, giving them top-quality care, and not about taking in numbers. In 2022, we have ONLY taken in 17 dogs to date.
 
After 26+ years, we know that we cannot please everyone, which means that BHRR is not the rescue to be followed, supported, and believed in by everyone. We remain small plus mighty, and as we go through this next transitional stage for BHRR, we shall continue to operate with a zero-tolerance approach, providing and beyond care to the animals.
 
Our mandates have never changed and will remain the same as long as we are around; the animals shall always be done right by as our priority.
 
Our adoption success rates remain second to no other group– 100% for over ten years of operating, and now 99% as we go through year 26, and we are excited as we go through this slow transition for BHRR!
 
You have come so far, Mr. Bruce, and we are delighted you are making your special announcement!
 
 

Join us Sunday, December 4th, from 1 PM – 2 PM as you design a gorgeous holiday planter!
$40 Cash at the door – Bring gloves and pruning shears!

 

AND Miss Asante was also at the Vet today!
 
She is our Newfx puppy(with Pyr). Born: June 13th, 2022.
 
She weighed 30.6 kgs(67.32 pounds). Her last weight on October 18th was 21.9 kgs(48.18 pounds). She was extremely skinny at that appointment.
 
Now, she looks good and is just starting to become a bit overweight. So, we will monitor closely.
 
We had more eye lube dispensed, two more months of Nexgard, she received her boosters AND had her eyes looked at once again.
 
It is now time for her to be professionally groomed! We will have that scheduled shortly. We want all of our dogs to look plus feel their best!
 
I will be in conversation with the surgeon tomorrow in re: to her bilateral cherry eyes. We still have close to $5,000 to raise for the one estimate that we were given.
 
She may need to have a consult with the surgeon before proceeding, and that may change the estimate.
 
This is a surgery that has a high risk of failure. She already had one eye done by the shelter – her right – and that failed fast.
 
Being a giant breed puppy, a Newf too, and that the ‘newer’ approach to surgically addressing bilateral cherry eye all brings the probability of failure to a high level. We know this going in, and have had to address this more than once, with many a Giant since our inception. So, one thing that we can do/control is to do this surgery(ies) when she is a bit older.
 
Miss Asante shall be at our December 3rd Bake & Chili sale at Pet Valu Brockville! If you would like to donate any baked goodies or have items that we could sell at our table – please do email contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Thank you to her wonderful foster home for making sure she got to her Vet appointment today and offering to be her special Secret Santa!

This AM, I brought Mr. Bruce in to see the Vet for a suspected rash in his groin area. This was an appointment that had been scheduled a few weeks ago yet the Vet became ill and had to be rescheduled.
 
Unfortunately, his foster Mama ended up not being able to bring him in this AM, so I managed to rearrange my schedule, and he/I had a road trip! 
 
This boy is something else! Super friendly, a bit of a ‘bull in a china shop’ with his loving and leash manners yet, he tries so hard to be a perfect gentleman! Anyone who has big interpersonal space issues will not be meant for him! He is right up in your face, plus hair, sniffling, snuffling, and smooching! 
 
His weight today was 56 kgs(123.21 pounds). He has put on 11.88 more pounds since October 1st! He is looking lean and strong, and with more muscle mass building, he will put on a few more pounds and look even more amazing! GREAT job to his foster family!
 
The ‘rash’ on his groin is not a rash. They are small bumps, a couple bordering on pustules. Yet, none infected, and he now has some Malacetic wipes to be wiped down daily. Each piece can be cut in two, so he has 50 days’ worth.
 
He smelled a bit yeasty – his ears – yet, they were good. Recommended to be cleaned weekly for the next few weeks.
 
He showed his wonderful manners by sitting for treats and then wanted to put his face in the Vet’s pockets as he knew more were in there. He Dane leaned on the Vet, causing many smiles!
 
He even handed over his front paws to be looked at. They were mildly pink, yet that could have just been from the cold and snow outside.
 
He was given a lot of love by staff AND now has the official thumbs up from the Vet and me to make his special announcement…..so stay tuned!
 
This afternoon, Miss Asante – the appointment is scheduled for 1 PM – is having her own Vet visit at LAH. She is due for boosters, and a re-weigh, and we will have those eyes looked at again, have more eye drops, if necessary dispensed, and her next flea/tick/hw meds. We just had a new bag of food put aside for pick-up too.
 
Today, we have already spent over $600 in Vet bills, which does not include Miss Asante’s vet visit.
 

Today, I had my 433rd foster adopted. Miss Ayla!
 
AND it was an emotional one. Hard not to be.
 
I was ‘ok’ until I was told that I would probably find Miss Maybelle the hardest to adopt out, and I found myself choking up a bit for yes, any of the beans are going to be extremely hard, yet it was Miss Ayla for me that I always knew would be an edge more harder….
 
I never told anyone that before today….
 
All of the beans had their battles uphill to overcome, and I have been Mama Gwennie protective of them all – at times more protective of one or more over others depending on what they were going through in their rehabilitation journey at that moment.
 
Miss Ayla had the hardest of all of them getting over aspiration pneumonia. She had so many punctures even half of her nose was severely damaged, with a big part even missing. My vet team and I were so pleasantly surprised to see how unbelievably amazing her body healed with minimal scarring.
 
All of them have so many small scars still on their bellies.
 
How Miss Ayla, even today – Miss Nola does the same thing – would trustingly want to lay backward cradled in my arms, looking at me with her gorgeous eyes, made my heart melt.
 
This home was interested in Miss Maybelle, and in going through their application, I felt Miss Ayla was the better fit. I offered to bring both to their home visit should the application process reach that stage. I wanted the home to see and understand and also possibly reach the same conclusion as to why I felt Miss Ayla would be the better right-matched personality fit pup.
 
Could they have made it work with Miss Maybelle, sure, yet it would not be in her or their ultimate best interest. Set up for success for the home and our dogs is a priority.
 
They wholeheartedly agreed Miss Ayla ‘is the one.’
 
A mother’s love is unconditional plus deep, and it is that Mama Gwennie love I have for all of them that enables me to let them go. Being selfless can be hard for Miss Ayla fits in so well in my own home and heart, yet, she does not need me – she thinks she does.
 
I know I have done all I can in raising a beautiful, confident, curious, social, healthy, happy, incredible with manners girl so that she can now spread her wings and not just fly yet soar into this awesome world we live in.
 
Is it easy to let go?! Nope, yet my love is so big and strong, and this is why I do what I do….she is going to be ok, I am going to be ok, and in fact, she is going to thrive!!
 
What a wonderful family she will be able to call home, and BHRR has added another lovely family to our own BHRR fam. 
 
Miss Maybelle, your own right-matched personality fit home is out there….you need a much more experienced home Miss Diva Princess Bean! 
 
Thank you again Cassy Montgomery, for helping out at this home visit! You were with me the night I picked them up and rushed them off to emergency in Kingston, and befitting that you were there today, as the first Bean was adopted!
 

Miss Maybelle & Miss Ayla are on our way to the home visit today!

AND The Bean’s latest professional photos are in! I will post the same blog post on each blog yet, keep their individual photo’s on their own blogs.
 
Thank you Liz Bradley!!
 
This could well be their last night that all five shall be together for tomorrow, I am doing a home visit for a possible approved adoption of either Miss Maybelle or Miss Ayla.
 
It is going to be an emotional night for me! I freely admit it! I have held these wee beans and fought hard for their survival since they were placed into my hands at barely a week of age.
 
I adore my Beans! 
 
We are also now reviewing another application for one of The Beans. They are looking at one of the black girls too.
 
Poor Mr. Albar and Miss Bev….they remain overlooked.
 
They were at the Vet on Friday, November 11th, for their final boosters. BHRR takes care of everything for our dogs – all rounds of boosters, de-worming, flea/tick/hw meds, pre-op bloodwork, microchipping, spays/neuters, AND it was many many many thousands of dollars to get them healthy from the aspiration pneumonia that they came to us with, saving Mr. Albar’s leg, treating the severe punctures on Miss Ayla, etc. Miss Nola still has her HM 1-2. Could resolve or may stay the same for life etc.
 
Their adoption fees are a mere pittance compared to the almost $27,000 it took to get them healthy.
 
I remain so proud of them!!!
 
Here are their weight history:
 
Puppy 1 – 0.38 kgs – deceased as of 8:49 AM Thursday, August 4th(passed away just hours after they were surrendered to rescue) – Miss Charm Bean
 
Puppy 2 BHRR’s Nola – (Miss Fighter Bean)
August 4th – 0.38 kgs as well
August 8th – 0.62 kgs (1 lb, 6 oz)
August 11th – 0.82 kgs (1 lb, 12.8 oz)
September 15th – 4.9 kgs (10.78 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds)
October 25th – 11.9 kgs (26.18 pounds)
November 11th – 14.4 kgs (31.68 pounds)
 
Puppy 3 BHRR’s Beaver(Bev) – (Miss Explorer Bean)
August 4th – 0.48 kgs
August 8th – 0.71 kgs (1 lb, 9 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 9.7 kgs (21.34 pounds)
October 25th – 10.4 kgs (22.88 pounds)
November 11th – 13.10 kgs (28.82 pounds)
 
Puppy 4 BHRR’s Albar – (Mr. Warrior Bean)
August 4th – 0.46 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
September 15th – 5.2 kgs (11.44 pounds)
October 21st – 10.9 kgs (23.98 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds)
November 11th – 14.6 kgs (32.12 pounds)
 
Puppy 5 BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie – (Miss Diva Princess Bean)
August 4th – 0.56 kgs
August 8th – 0.99 kgs (2 lbs, 3 oz)
September 15th – 5.3 kgs (11.66 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds) – same as Miss Nola
October 25th – 11.8 kgs (25.96 pounds)
November 11th – 15.2 kgs (33.44 pounds)
 
Puppy 6 BHRR’s Ayla (Miss Chill Mobile Bean)
August 4th – 0.64 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
August 11th – 1.03 kg (2 lbs, 3.6 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs – same as BHRR’s Bev (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 11.2 kgs (24.64 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds) – same as Mr. Albar
November 11th – 14.3 kgs (31.46 pounds)

AND The Bean’s latest professional photos are in! I will post the same blog post on each blog yet, keep their individual photo’s on their own blogs.
 
Thank you Liz Bradley!!
 
This could well be their last night that all five shall be together for tomorrow, I am doing a home visit for a possible approved adoption of either Miss Maybelle or Miss Ayla.
 
It is going to be an emotional night for me! I freely admit it! I have held these wee beans and fought hard for their survival since they were placed into my hands at barely a week of age.
 
I adore my Beans! 
 
We are also now reviewing another application for one of The Beans. They are looking at one of the black girls too.
 
Poor Mr. Albar and Miss Bev….they remain overlooked.
 
They were at the Vet on Friday, November 11th, for their final boosters. BHRR takes care of everything for our dogs – all rounds of boosters, de-worming, flea/tick/hw meds, pre-op bloodwork, microchipping, spays/neuters, AND it was many many many thousands of dollars to get them healthy from the aspiration pneumonia that they came to us with, saving Mr. Albar’s leg, treating the severe punctures on Miss Ayla, etc. Miss Nola still has her HM 1-2. Could resolve or may stay the same for life etc.
 
Their adoption fees are a mere pittance compared to the almost $27,000 it took to get them healthy.
 
I remain so proud of them!!!
 
Here are their weight history:
 
Puppy 1 – 0.38 kgs – deceased as of 8:49 AM Thursday, August 4th(passed away just hours after they were surrendered to rescue) – Miss Charm Bean
 
Puppy 2 BHRR’s Nola – (Miss Fighter Bean)
August 4th – 0.38 kgs as well
August 8th – 0.62 kgs (1 lb, 6 oz)
August 11th – 0.82 kgs (1 lb, 12.8 oz)
September 15th – 4.9 kgs (10.78 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds)
October 25th – 11.9 kgs (26.18 pounds)
November 11th – 14.4 kgs (31.68 pounds)
 
Puppy 3 BHRR’s Beaver(Bev) – (Miss Explorer Bean)
August 4th – 0.48 kgs
August 8th – 0.71 kgs (1 lb, 9 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 9.7 kgs (21.34 pounds)
October 25th – 10.4 kgs (22.88 pounds)
November 11th – 13.10 kgs (28.82 pounds)
 
Puppy 4 BHRR’s Albar – (Mr. Warrior Bean)
August 4th – 0.46 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
September 15th – 5.2 kgs (11.44 pounds)
October 21st – 10.9 kgs (23.98 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds)
November 11th – 14.6 kgs (32.12 pounds)
 
Puppy 5 BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie – (Miss Diva Princess Bean)
August 4th – 0.56 kgs
August 8th – 0.99 kgs (2 lbs, 3 oz)
September 15th – 5.3 kgs (11.66 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds) – same as Miss Nola
October 25th – 11.8 kgs (25.96 pounds)
November 11th – 15.2 kgs (33.44 pounds)
 
Puppy 6 BHRR’s Ayla (Miss Chill Mobile Bean)
August 4th – 0.64 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
August 11th – 1.03 kg (2 lbs, 3.6 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs – same as BHRR’s Bev (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 11.2 kgs (24.64 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds) – same as Mr. Albar
November 11th – 14.3 kgs (31.46 pounds)

AND The Bean’s latest professional photos are in! I will post the same blog post on each blog yet, keep their individual photo’s on their own blogs.
 
Thank you Liz Bradley!!
 
This could well be their last night that all five shall be together for tomorrow, I am doing a home visit for a possible approved adoption of either Miss Maybelle or Miss Ayla.
 
It is going to be an emotional night for me! I freely admit it! I have held these wee beans and fought hard for their survival since they were placed into my hands at barely a week of age.
 
I adore my Beans! 
 
We are also now reviewing another application for one of The Beans. They are looking at one of the black girls too.
 
Poor Mr. Albar and Miss Bev….they remain overlooked.
 
They were at the Vet on Friday, November 11th, for their final boosters. BHRR takes care of everything for our dogs – all rounds of boosters, de-worming, flea/tick/hw meds, pre-op bloodwork, microchipping, spays/neuters, AND it was many many many thousands of dollars to get them healthy from the aspiration pneumonia that they came to us with, saving Mr. Albar’s leg, treating the severe punctures on Miss Ayla, etc. Miss Nola still has her HM 1-2. Could resolve or may stay the same for life etc.
 
Their adoption fees are a mere pittance compared to the almost $27,000 it took to get them healthy.
 
I remain so proud of them!!!
 
Here are their weight history:
 
Puppy 1 – 0.38 kgs – deceased as of 8:49 AM Thursday, August 4th(passed away just hours after they were surrendered to rescue) – Miss Charm Bean
 
Puppy 2 BHRR’s Nola – (Miss Fighter Bean)
August 4th – 0.38 kgs as well
August 8th – 0.62 kgs (1 lb, 6 oz)
August 11th – 0.82 kgs (1 lb, 12.8 oz)
September 15th – 4.9 kgs (10.78 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds)
October 25th – 11.9 kgs (26.18 pounds)
November 11th – 14.4 kgs (31.68 pounds)
 
Puppy 3 BHRR’s Beaver(Bev) – (Miss Explorer Bean)
August 4th – 0.48 kgs
August 8th – 0.71 kgs (1 lb, 9 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 9.7 kgs (21.34 pounds)
October 25th – 10.4 kgs (22.88 pounds)
November 11th – 13.10 kgs (28.82 pounds)
 
Puppy 4 BHRR’s Albar – (Mr. Warrior Bean)
August 4th – 0.46 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
September 15th – 5.2 kgs (11.44 pounds)
October 21st – 10.9 kgs (23.98 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds)
November 11th – 14.6 kgs (32.12 pounds)
 
Puppy 5 BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie – (Miss Diva Princess Bean)
August 4th – 0.56 kgs
August 8th – 0.99 kgs (2 lbs, 3 oz)
September 15th – 5.3 kgs (11.66 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds) – same as Miss Nola
October 25th – 11.8 kgs (25.96 pounds)
November 11th – 15.2 kgs (33.44 pounds)
 
Puppy 6 BHRR’s Ayla (Miss Chill Mobile Bean)
August 4th – 0.64 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
August 11th – 1.03 kg (2 lbs, 3.6 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs – same as BHRR’s Bev (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 11.2 kgs (24.64 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds) – same as Mr. Albar
November 11th – 14.3 kgs (31.46 pounds)

 

AND The Bean’s latest professional photos are in! I will post the same blog post on each blog yet, keep their individual photo’s on their own blogs.
 
Thank you Liz Bradley!!
 
This could well be their last night that all five shall be together for tomorrow, I am doing a home visit for a possible approved adoption of either Miss Maybelle or Miss Ayla.
 
It is going to be an emotional night for me! I freely admit it! I have held these wee beans and fought hard for their survival since they were placed into my hands at barely a week of age.
 
I adore my Beans! 
 
We are also now reviewing another application for one of The Beans. They are looking at one of the black girls too.
 
Poor Mr. Albar and Miss Bev….they remain overlooked.
 
They were at the Vet on Friday, November 11th, for their final boosters. BHRR takes care of everything for our dogs – all rounds of boosters, de-worming, flea/tick/hw meds, pre-op bloodwork, microchipping, spays/neuters, AND it was many many many thousands of dollars to get them healthy from the aspiration pneumonia that they came to us with, saving Mr. Albar’s leg, treating the severe punctures on Miss Ayla, etc. Miss Nola still has her HM 1-2. Could resolve or may stay the same for life etc.
 
Their adoption fees are a mere pittance compared to the almost $27,000 it took to get them healthy.
 
I remain so proud of them!!!
 
Here are their weight history:
 
Puppy 1 – 0.38 kgs – deceased as of 8:49 AM Thursday, August 4th(passed away just hours after they were surrendered to rescue) – Miss Charm Bean
 
Puppy 2 BHRR’s Nola – (Miss Fighter Bean)
August 4th – 0.38 kgs as well
August 8th – 0.62 kgs (1 lb, 6 oz)
August 11th – 0.82 kgs (1 lb, 12.8 oz)
September 15th – 4.9 kgs (10.78 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds)
October 25th – 11.9 kgs (26.18 pounds)
November 11th – 14.4 kgs (31.68 pounds)
 
Puppy 3 BHRR’s Beaver(Bev) – (Miss Explorer Bean)
August 4th – 0.48 kgs
August 8th – 0.71 kgs (1 lb, 9 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 9.7 kgs (21.34 pounds)
October 25th – 10.4 kgs (22.88 pounds)
November 11th – 13.10 kgs (28.82 pounds)
 
Puppy 4 BHRR’s Albar – (Mr. Warrior Bean)
August 4th – 0.46 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
September 15th – 5.2 kgs (11.44 pounds)
October 21st – 10.9 kgs (23.98 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds)
November 11th – 14.6 kgs (32.12 pounds)
 
Puppy 5 BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie – (Miss Diva Princess Bean)
August 4th – 0.56 kgs
August 8th – 0.99 kgs (2 lbs, 3 oz)
September 15th – 5.3 kgs (11.66 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds) – same as Miss Nola
October 25th – 11.8 kgs (25.96 pounds)
November 11th – 15.2 kgs (33.44 pounds)
 
Puppy 6 BHRR’s Ayla (Miss Chill Mobile Bean)
August 4th – 0.64 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
August 11th – 1.03 kg (2 lbs, 3.6 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs – same as BHRR’s Bev (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 11.2 kgs (24.64 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds) – same as Mr. Albar
November 11th – 14.3 kgs (31.46 pounds)
 

AND The Bean’s latest professional photos are in! I will post the same blog post on each blog yet, keep their individual photo’s on their own blogs.
 
Thank you Liz Bradley!!
 
This could well be their last night that all five shall be together for tomorrow, I am doing a home visit for a possible approved adoption of either Miss Maybelle or Miss Ayla.
 
It is going to be an emotional night for me! I freely admit it! I have held these wee beans and fought hard for their survival since they were placed into my hands at barely a week of age.
 
I adore my Beans! 
 
We are also now reviewing another application for one of The Beans. They are looking at one of the black girls too.
 
Poor Mr. Albar and Miss Bev….they remain overlooked.
 
They were at the Vet on Friday, November 11th, for their final boosters. BHRR takes care of everything for our dogs – all rounds of boosters, de-worming, flea/tick/hw meds, pre-op bloodwork, microchipping, spays/neuters, AND it was many many many thousands of dollars to get them healthy from the aspiration pneumonia that they came to us with, saving Mr. Albar’s leg, treating the severe punctures on Miss Ayla, etc. Miss Nola still has her HM 1-2. Could resolve or may stay the same for life etc.
 
Their adoption fees are a mere pittance compared to the almost $27,000 it took to get them healthy.
 
I remain so proud of them!!!
 
Here are their weight history:
 
Puppy 1 – 0.38 kgs – deceased as of 8:49 AM Thursday, August 4th(passed away just hours after they were surrendered to rescue) – Miss Charm Bean
 
Puppy 2 BHRR’s Nola – (Miss Fighter Bean)
August 4th – 0.38 kgs as well
August 8th – 0.62 kgs (1 lb, 6 oz)
August 11th – 0.82 kgs (1 lb, 12.8 oz)
September 15th – 4.9 kgs (10.78 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds)
October 25th – 11.9 kgs (26.18 pounds)
November 11th – 14.4 kgs (31.68 pounds)
 
Puppy 3 BHRR’s Beaver(Bev) – (Miss Explorer Bean)
August 4th – 0.48 kgs
August 8th – 0.71 kgs (1 lb, 9 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 9.7 kgs (21.34 pounds)
October 25th – 10.4 kgs (22.88 pounds)
November 11th – 13.10 kgs (28.82 pounds)
 
Puppy 4 BHRR’s Albar – (Mr. Warrior Bean)
August 4th – 0.46 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
September 15th – 5.2 kgs (11.44 pounds)
October 21st – 10.9 kgs (23.98 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds)
November 11th – 14.6 kgs (32.12 pounds)
 
Puppy 5 BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie – (Miss Diva Princess Bean)
August 4th – 0.56 kgs
August 8th – 0.99 kgs (2 lbs, 3 oz)
September 15th – 5.3 kgs (11.66 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds) – same as Miss Nola
October 25th – 11.8 kgs (25.96 pounds)
November 11th – 15.2 kgs (33.44 pounds)
 
Puppy 6 BHRR’s Ayla (Miss Chill Mobile Bean)
August 4th – 0.64 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
August 11th – 1.03 kg (2 lbs, 3.6 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs – same as BHRR’s Bev (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 11.2 kgs (24.64 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds) – same as Mr. Albar
November 11th – 14.3 kgs (31.46 pounds)
 
 

Today, Mr. Bruce’s professional photos’ came in!

So worth the wait!

He will be making his own special announcement soon! 

He is such a hilarious goofball! Such a charming, affectionate, and adorable boy! He is such a WOW Dane!

Thank you, Liz Bradley & to his wonderful foster home for ensuring he got to his photo shoot! Liz said that he was very excited for his photo session!

 

Two goofs!
 
Mr. Jack is available for adoption, and Mr. Bruce will be making his own special announcement soon.
 
We are just waiting on his professional photos!
 
Thanks to their wonderful foster home for sharing!

Another photo of Miss Bev from today’s amazing play date!

Playdate time today! What a stunning day! 23 degrees!

They love the chairs! Any elevation change they are so excited to explore.
 
Three months old now! 

Playdate time today! What a stunning day! 23 degrees!

They love the chairs! Any elevation change they are so excited to explore.
 
Three months old now!

Playdate time today! What a stunning day! 23 degrees!

They love the chairs! Any elevation change they are so excited to explore.
 
Three months old now!

Playdate time today! What a stunning day! 23 degrees!

They love the chairs! Any elevation change they are so excited to explore.
 
Three months old now!

 

Playdate time today! What a stunning day! 23 degrees!

They love the chairs! Any elevation change they are so excited to explore.
 
Three months old now!

Though I am feeling bummed about missing Halloween, I am grateful to Miss Asante’s lovely foster home for sending pictures of her as an adorable ‘disco Halloween helper!’ 
 
Happy Halloween to all, and please keep your pets and children, plus yourselves, safe!
 

This is Miss Ayla(L) & Miss Maybelle Cutie(R) at their last professional photo shoot!

 

AND I am in my way shortly for The Bean’s next photo shoot!

They are all recovering well from their spays/neuter.

This is Miss Bev! This litter had always loved climbing on things! 

Miss Bev is coming back with me after their paparazzi photo shoot & The Beans will all be back together again!

Thank you to her amazing foster home for this hilarious photo of Miss Bev & her big foster sister River. 

 

Another crazy busy BHRR day!

Mr. Bruce had his paparazzi photo shoot this AM!

This is him and Mr. Jack(AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!) & very interested in what is going on the screen. 

By the end of next week, Mr. Bruce(Fawn Merle Great Dane) shall be ready to make his own special announcement!

Thank you to his wonderful foster Mama for taking him to his professional photo shoot! 

Miss Chrissy’s professional photo shoot was delayed due to rain, and then I had a bit of a gastro bug. She will get hers done soon!

 

 

 

The Beans had their next weigh-ins and were altered today.
 
I also microchipped them and tidied up their nails.
 
I did not get out of surgery until after 3:30 pm. 
 
What a way to end my last surgery tech shift at LAH!
 
From Friday to today, their weights have gone up more than I would have thought!
 
Puppy 1 – 0.38 kgs – deceased as of 8:49 AM Thursday, August 4th(passed away just hours after they were surrendered to rescue)
 
Puppy 2 BHRR’s Nola – (Miss Fighter Bean)
August 4th – 0.38 kgs as well
August 8th – 0.62 kgs (1 lb, 6 oz)
August 11th – 0.82 kgs (1 lb, 12.8 oz)
September 15th – 4.9 kgs (10.78 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds)
October 25th – 11.9 kgs (26.18 pounds)
 
Puppy 3 BHRR’s Beaver(Bev) – (Miss Explorer Bean)
August 4th – 0.48 kgs
August 8th – 0.71 kgs (1 lb, 9 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 9.7 kgs (21.34 pounds)
October 25th – 10.4 kgs (22.88 pounds)
 
Puppy 4 BHRR’s Albar – (Mr. Warrior Bean)
August 4th – 0.46 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
September 15th – 5.2 kgs (11.44 pounds)
October 21st – 10.9 kgs (23.98 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds)
 
Puppy 5 BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie – (Miss Diva Princess Bean)
August 4th – 0.56 kgs
August 8th – 0.99 kgs (2 lbs, 3 oz)
September 15th – 5.3 kgs (11.66 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds) – same as Miss Nola
October 25th – 11.8 kgs (25.96 pounds)
 
Puppy 6 BHRR’s Ayla (Miss Busy Mobile Bean)
August 4th – 0.64 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
August 11th – 1.03 kg (2 lbs, 3.6 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs – same as BHRR’s Bev (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 11.2 kgs (24.64 pounds)
October 25th – 11.7 kgs (25.74 pounds) – same as Mr. Albar
*We know that she was ‘chill’ due to still battling aspiration pneumonia, yet is now a busy bean!
 
I barely had time to have a pee break and take a few sips of water. 
 
Now, I am home, and the pups are tucked in, and I am going to forage for some dinner!
 

Their vet bills today were a smidge under $3,000 as I brought my own microchips, saving over $500, and tax plus, I have pain meds at home, saving another several hundred dollars.

 
The Beans are expensive yet so worth it!
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

BHRR’s Miss Agatha is moving under a PENDING Adoption status.
 
We shall update as we can!
 

Soooooo, this happened tonight!
 
BHRR’s Titan has moved to an ADOPTED status!
 
This fam photo is a bit different, yet no less awesome – Miss Hazel(BHRR’s Whisper ADOPTED November 12th, 2018) is the white Great Dane & Mr. Titan is with his forever loving adoptive Mama! 
 
As is said, the best failure is a foster failure when it is a right-matched personality fit!
 
As BHRR’s Titan’s adoptive mama says, ‘foster success!’ 
 
I am so happy for all of them, and thank you to Sean for coming to do this home visit with me!
 
AND thank you to my family for watching The Beans while I had to step out for this home visit.
 
My heart is bursting with happiness for him and his wonderful, forever-loving adoptive home!
 
You have come far, my dear boy, and you are very loved beyond measure by so many!
 

The Beans had their re-weighs today and their next DAPP boosters – they also received their first Lepto & Lyme vaccines – plus picked up their next flea/tick & hw meds.
 
Their weights range from 9.7 (Miss Bev) up to 11.3 kgs(Miss Nola & Miss Maybelle Cutie). Mr. Albar was 10.9 kgs. Two of the girls were 11.3 kgs & the other was 11.2 kgs.
 
Thanks to Amanda and Jen for their assistance ‘lugging’ the beans, as the parking lot was insanely busy!
 
We had Miss Nola’s heart checked again, and she still has her Grade 1-2 HM, which is not uncommon and often can be completely harmless, and they often can outgrow them. We shall continue to monitor. Miss Nola and her Bean siblings got the big thumbs up at their Vet visit!
 
The unfortunate part is that three of the beans vomited twice post vaccines, and four were very subdued. This is most likely from the Lepto booster in a combination with the excitement of the day.
 
All temps were high normal, and they are being closely monitored in case they may need some dex or Benadryl.
 
All are resting quietly – getting some sun rays…..
 
On a side note, I was deeply overjoyed to see my Miss Bevie!  I have dearly missed her, and she was so happy to see me too!
 
I love the picture I have posted of BHRR’s Chester – ADOPTED May 3rd, 2022 – and Miss Bev!
 

The Beans turn 3 months old Sunday! The 23rd of October.

First Picture: Mr. Albar behind Miss Maybelle Cutie & Miss Ayla to the left lying down & Moss Nola to the right lying down.
Second Picture: BHRR’s Maybelle – head on Miss Ayla’s back & Miss Nola lying down. 
Third Picture: Miss Bev with BHRR’s Chester – ADOPTED May 3rd, 2022.

Puppy 1 – 0.38 kgs – deceased as of 8:49 AM Thursday, August 4th(passed away just hours after they were surrendered to rescue)
 
Puppy 2 BHRR’s Nola – (Miss Fighter Bean)
August 4th – 0.38 kgs as well
August 8th – 0.62 kgs (1 lb, 6 oz)
August 11th – 0.82 kgs (1 lb, 12.8 oz)
September 15th – 4.9 kgs (10.78 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds)
 
Puppy 3 BHRR’s Beaver(Bev) – (Miss Explorer Bean)
August 4th – 0.48 kgs
August 8th – 0.71 kgs (1 lb, 9 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 9.7 kgs (21.34 pounds)
 
Puppy 4 BHRR’s Albar – (Mr. Warrior Bean)
August 4th – 0.46 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
September 15th – 5.2 kgs (11.44 pounds)
October 21st – 10.9 kgs (23.98 pounds)
 
Puppy 5 BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie – (Miss Diva Princess Bean)
August 4th – 0.56 kgs
August 8th – 0.99 kgs (2 lbs, 3 oz)
September 15th – 5.3 kgs (11.66 pounds)
October 21st – 11.3 kgs (24.86 pounds) The same as Miss Nola
 
Puppy 6 BHRR’s Ayla (Miss Busy Mobile Bean)
August 4th – 0.64 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
August 11th – 1.03 kg (2 lbs, 3.6 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs – same as BHRR’s Bev (10.34 pounds)
October 21st – 11.2 kgs (24.64 pounds)
*We know that she was ‘chill’ due to still battling aspiration pneumonia, yet is now a busy bean!
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

UPDATE on his emergency visit yesterday:

He does have a UTI & is on Clavaseptin 750 mg BID. His bills were $438.09, and thanks to an anonymous Titan angel, they generously paid his bill. Unbelievably kind and heartwarming. 

 
Eagleson Veterinary Clinic recommended a recheck in about four weeks’ time, and if the adoption is approved, this is something the approved adoptive home can easily manage.
 
I was told he was a ‘star’ patient, and I would have expected nothing less!
 
 
 
 

Miss Asante has now been safely handed off to her lovely fosters.
 
Thanks for meeting up with me partway!
 
I will see her on Tuesday at her vet apt., and now that we have her, we can start moving on her rehabilitation to health and new eyes!
 
Super sweet, super stinky, yet super sweet!

I got her and am now on my way to meet up with her foster family.
 
Not the best pics! Sorry!

Miss Asante is still travelling great!
 
She is travelling with cats & kittens and 6 other dogs on this transport. Lots of tandem driving going on as each leg is done.
 
I am being told her hair is like ‘velvet’. 
 
A massive hit with all!
 
She is so tiny in this pic!! We got you, sweet baby…soon, I will meet you soon!
 

Miss Asante began her journey early this AM & I will be meeting the transport in a few hours, then will drive to meet up with her temp foster.
 
The thing I do not have right now – I am recycling collars/leash/harness so she is ok on that for now, and I thought I could snag the brand new bed I had bought(not yet used) for one of my own dogs – an XL Costco dog bed.
 
Appears that the bed has been pulled down and loved – from the faint mud/dust pawprints evidence! 
 
If anyone may consider being a bed angel for her, please let me know!
 
She has her first vet appointment with us on Tuesday. We will get those eyes repaired ASAP. The shelter had done the right eye, yet it failed. Very common with the ‘new’ technique, especially with Danes and Newfs.
 
When she is ready and settled in a bit, too, we will have a professional groom done for we want all of our dogs looking and feeling their best.
 
I have been told she is ‘super sweet and very, very, very easygoing.’
 
From these pics, I see single-bred Newf, yet we will see what the intake paperwork says, etc.
 
It does not matter to us!
 

Mr. Titan is at Eagleson Veterinary Clinic. I was able to get him in there to be seen today for his bloody urine.
 
I am waiting for an update, invoicing, etc., and please keep him in your thoughts.
 
It is really hard when a cherished dog is at the Hospital without you there…he & I went through so much together when he first came into rescue & he is adored….he was so sick upon intake in emerge back in early July – to the point that the difficult conversation re: if he went into cardiac arrest had to be had.
 
I slept on the floor beside him and was with him 24/7 in those early days….
 
The reality is that he went through so much on his own, needlessly and neglectfully, before he was rescued. I never want him ever being alone again…..
 
He has his foster mama with him today and hoping it is an easily treated UTI situation.
 

When it rains, it pours.
 
We had worked to schedule the home visit for BHRR’s Titan’s possible approved adoption and finally got a date booked, and today, I am notified by his foster home that he has blood in his urine.
 
Poor boy…..
 
When we first rescued him at the beginning of July, he had severe untreated urinary issues. He was placed on both Zeniquin and Clavaseptin.
 
So, everything is now on hold as we address this concern.
 
Sean/I are going to stop checking emails and texts and picking up the phone……just when you think you are going to get ahead of the rescue vet bills. 
 
Yet, we will continue to ensure that he and all of our dogs get everything they need and go up and beyond. 
 
On a side note, we are getting one step closer to having BHRR’s Asante arrive. I also have her first Vet appointment booked for Tuesday at 3 PM.
 

BHRR’s Titan is moving under a PENDING ADOPTION!
 
We shall update as we can.

One of my new all-time fav photos!
 
BHRR’s Chester (Adopted May 3rd, 2022) with his wee foster sister, Miss Bev Bean! 
 
The Beans are back at the Vet for their next boosters on October 15th!
 
I am also now looking at getting their 12-week professional photo’s booked. 
 
 
 

October 17th – October 21st  – Pancakes for sale up to 3 PM EVERY DAY!
Sunset Grill, Brockville, ON

Miss Chrissy, one of our Three’s Company pups, was spayed Tuesday, October 4th.
 
She weighed 15.8 kgs(34.76 pounds).
 
We did pre-op bloodwork and microchipped her, and her nails did not need to be done – very proactive on that!
 
The surgeon – the same one that did Mr. Jack’s neuter & I discussed in depth a premed protocol as Miss Janet is having IS & Mr. Jack was very dysphoric upon waking.
 
As with all of our dogs, we give trazodone the night before and the AM of to ensure they are as stress-free as possible.
 
I was her surgery tech, and she was stable throughout & woke up smooth, she had a wonderful stay at the Hospital too.
 
Her paparazzi photo shoot is booked for next week – I believe! – and shortly after that, she will be making her own special announcement.
 
This is her in post-op….all snuggled up in warmies & blankets. 
 
 

Miss Janet, one of our Three’s company pups.
 
She is on Pheno & Keppra now. Hoping we are finally on the good end of this IS fight. 
 
Her head has been healing beautifully!
 
I cannot believe they are six months old now.
 
Such social, happy, wiggle-butt Aussies!
 

BHRR’s Bruce was at the Vet yesterday.
 
He weighed a very thin 50.6 kgs(110.66). I would like to see at least another 15-20 pounds of muscle mass and weight on him and then re-evaluate. I want him lean, not overweight. Too many obese dogs out there….
 
He had his boosters – DHPP, Lyme, Lepto, was dispensed deworming, hw, flea/tick meds. I was thinking Nexgard Spectra, yet when I was at work, I began thinking more Nexgard and Interceptor Plus. Thanks to the Vet for ‘poking’ fun at me for writing down Nexgard Spectra in the apt. notes! I know what I wrote and thought it over!
 
I drew blood – such a good boy to sit nicely for me to take from his jugular – and ran a hw/tickborne disease test – negative, and I took extra to see if the Vet wanted to run a panel. They did not feel it necessary, and unless I wanted to run it for a baseline for Mr. Bruce, they were not concerned.
 
I took the blood I was holding for the possible blood profile and spun it down to get serum to freeze to help others with eye ulcers. Dane blood can be so universal!
 
He was friendly, lovely to finally get to meet him, and when he is ready, he will seriously make a home an INCREDIBLE addition! He is stunning inside and out!
 
He loved everyone at the clinic! No interpersonal space issues or respect from this boy! Right up in your face with happiness/love! LOL
 
He resides in a foster home with two other dogs: Mr. Jack(AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION), cats, and bunnies! It was great to see Mr. Jack again too!
 
Miss Chrissy is having her spay, microchip, bloodwork, etc., on Tuesday.
 
Will monitor Mr. Bruce’s small skin issues, is it behavioural? Environmental and behavioural? Environmental? – he had eye/ear infections when he was dropped off at the shelter. Resolved now.
 
Per the foster, he is having some SA issues in his crate at night. They still have some trazodone on hand and will use that to help ‘ease’ Mr. Bruce to be ok with his own company.
 
So, hard on these big sensitive dogs! You will get there, Mr. Bruce. It has only been nine days today since your arrival.
 
Thank you to his foster home for being open to fostering him until at least December 1st. It saved his life……
 
AND for those asking re: his colouring – he is a Fawn Merle.
 

AND…………drumroll!

The Beans(LabX) went up for fostering to adopt on October 1st!
*~75% lab*

We are also open to approved Volunteers to foster them until they are adopted by a right-matched personality fit home.

*Adoptions will not be finalized until after their spays/neuter
*This is in addition to our mandatory obedience clause
*They can go to homes with responsible children as young as 10+
*No more than two children in a home
*They can go to homes with cats
*We prefer homes with at least one right-matched personality-fit dog, not a deal breaker for that right home that has a great social network set up for The Bean!
*Homes must be within 2 hours of our location & be willing to take them to their October 15th booster apt. & their alter apt at the end of October – booked at Liston Animal Hospital
*Foster-to-adopt homes must then be prepared to commit to their final puppy boosters around November 15th (post-adoption), including rabies, dhpp, Lyme plus lepto
**The above clauses will be in the foster-to-adopt contracts in addition to all other requirements found in our standard adoption application contract**

They are ready to be fostered by an approved Volunteer AND they are ready to be fostered to adopt to homes seeking to adopt. The adoption application contract must be completed.

Thank you again to the puppy wranglers that came out to help at their paparazzi photo shoot! VERY appreciated!

Thank you again to Liz Bradley for the gorgeous photos!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTE: WE ONLY ADOPT TO SOME PARTS OF ONTARIO & QUEBEC, CANADA

*As this is a foster-to-adopt puppy, all homes must be within 2 hours of our location AND willing to drive him to his scheduled Vet appointments in Kanata, ON *
**NO Exceptions**

***AVAILABLE FOR A FOSTER TO ADOPT!**
*ADOPTION WILL NOT BE FINALIZED UNTIL NEUTERED*

2nd boosters are booked for October 15th, his neuter is scheduled for the third week of October, and he will require his third boosters by November 15th(the approved foster to adopt home can take care of the third boosters, and it will be in the signed foster to adopt contract that they agree to do so – Rabies, DAPP, Lepto & Lyme.

BHRR’s Albar – male – Labx(Predominantly Lab ~75%) – ten weeks of age(born July 23rd), utd on vaccines, will be microchipped, good with other dogs & good with people, Has been good with cats – integration is key!

*We will consider homes with responsible children 10+
*No more than two children in a home

Has had some obedience(this does not exclude our mandatory adoption clause of a full round of obedience being required – NO EXCEPTIONS!)

NOTE: All blogs(scroll to the very bottom and then read upwards) and our PetFinder animal lists are kept utd so yes, he is still available.

Almost all of your questions will be answered in his thorough blog. READ the blog from the bottom up once on the blog.

Please familiarize yourself with BHRR’s adoption mandates, processes plus policies before contacting us about a BHRR animal.

Our PetFinder and our www.birchhaven.org websites will answer most of your questions. Therefore, do not contact us asking us what our policies are, what our adoption area is, or what his adoption fee is. BHRR is a federally registered NPO operated solely by Volunteers.

We are NOT a shelter or a pound.

You CANNOT just drop by to visit him. He resides in a loving foster home, not a kennel, and BHRR has a thorough adoption process to determine if any home is a right match personality fit.

When submitting your completed adoption application contract – found on our home website – for BHRR’s Albar, please include a short introduction regarding your home, etc.

We DO NOT respond to inquiries to adopt via Petfinder, our website nor any emails/phone calls. We ONLY will consider completed applications along with the non-refundable application fee.

NOTE: WE also will not respond to any emails that only ask a one-liner or re: adoption fees.

The adoption cost(from a r/q Rescue) or purchase cost(if you purchase from a reputable/quality Breeder is the LEAST that you shall pay over the lifetime of proper care of your pet)

 

NOTE: WE ONLY ADOPT TO SOME PARTS OF ONTARIO & QUEBEC, CANADA

*As this is a foster-to-adopt puppy, all homes must be within 2 hours of our location AND willing to drive her to her scheduled Vet appointments in Kanata, ON *
**NO Exceptions**

***AVAILABLE FOR A FOSTER TO ADOPT!**
*ADOPTION WILL NOT BE FINALIZED UNTIL SPAYED*

2nd boosters are booked for October 15th, her spay is scheduled for the third week of October, and she will require her third boosters by November 15th(the approved foster to adopt home can take care of the third boosters, and it will be in the signed foster to adopt contract that they agree to do so – Rabies, DAPP, Lepto & Lyme.

BHRR’s Nola – female – Labx(Predominantly Lab ~75%) – ten weeks of age(born July 23rd), utd on vaccines, will be microchipped, good with other dogs & good with people, Has been good with cats – integration is key!

*We will consider homes with responsible children 10+
*No more than two children in a home

Has had some obedience(this does not exclude our mandatory adoption clause of a full round of obedience being required – NO EXCEPTIONS!)

NOTE: All blogs(scroll to the very bottom and then read upwards).

Please familiarize yourself with BHRR’s adoption mandates, processes plus policies before contacting us about a BHRR animal.

Our PetFinder and our www.birchhaven.org websites will answer most of your questions. Therefore, do not contact us asking us what our policies are, what our adoption area is, or what her adoption fee is. BHRR is a federally registered NPO operated solely by Volunteers.

We are NOT a shelter or a pound.

You CANNOT just drop by to visit her. She resides in a loving foster home, not a kennel, and BHRR has a thorough adoption process to determine if any home is a right match personality fit.

When submitting your completed adoption application contract – found on our home website – for her, please include a short introduction regarding your home, etc.

We DO NOT respond to inquiries to adopt via Petfinder nor our website or any emails/phone calls. We ONLY will consider completed applications along with the non-refundable application fee.

NOTE: WE also will not respond to any emails that only ask a one-liner or re: adoption fees.

The adoption cost(from a r/q Rescue) or purchase cost(if you purchase from a reputable/quality Breeder is the LEAST that you shall pay over the lifetime of proper care of your pet).

 

NOTE: WE ONLY ADOPT TO SOME PARTS OF ONTARIO & QUEBEC, CANADA

*As this is a foster-to-adopt puppy, all homes must be within 2 hours of our location AND willing to drive her to her scheduled Vet appointments in Kanata, ON *
**NO Exceptions**

***AVAILABLE FOR A FOSTER TO ADOPT!**
*ADOPTION WILL NOT BE FINALIZED UNTIL SPAYED*

2nd boosters are booked for October 15th, her spay is scheduled for the third week of October, and she will require her third boosters by November 15th(the approved foster to adopt home can take care of the third boosters, and it will be in the signed foster to adopt contract that they agree to do so – Rabies, DAPP, Lepto & Lyme.

BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie – female – Labx(Predominantly Lab ~75%) – ten weeks of age(born July 23rd), utd on vaccines, will be microchipped, good with other dogs & good with people, Has been good with cats – integration is key!

*We will consider homes with responsible children 10+
*No more than two children in a home

Has had some obedience(this does not exclude our mandatory adoption clause of a full round of obedience being required – NO EXCEPTIONS!)

NOTE: All blogs(scroll to the very bottom and then read upwards).

Please familiarize yourself with BHRR’s adoption mandates, processes plus policies before contacting us about a BHRR animal.

Our PetFinder and our www.birchhaven.org websites will answer most of your questions. Therefore, do not contact us asking us what our policies are, what our adoption area is, or what her adoption fee is. BHRR is a federally registered NPO operated solely by Volunteers.

We are NOT a shelter or a pound.

You CANNOT just drop by to visit her. She resides in a loving foster home, not a kennel, and BHRR has a thorough adoption process to determine if any home is a right match personality fit.

When submitting your completed adoption application contract – found on our home website – for her, please include a short introduction regarding your home, etc.

We DO NOT respond to inquiries to adopt via Petfinder nor our website or any emails/phone calls. We ONLY will consider completed applications along with the non-refundable application fee.

NOTE: WE also will not respond to any emails that only ask a one-liner or re: adoption fees.

The adoption cost(from a r/q Rescue) or purchase cost(if you purchase from a reputable/quality Breeder is the LEAST that you shall pay over the lifetime of proper care of your pet).

 

NOTE: WE ONLY ADOPT TO SOME PARTS OF ONTARIO & QUEBEC, CANADA

*As this is a foster-to-adopt puppy, all homes must be within 2 hours of our location AND willing to drive him to his scheduled Vet appointments in Kanata, ON *
**NO Exceptions**

***AVAILABLE FOR A FOSTER TO ADOPT!**
*ADOPTION WILL NOT BE FINALIZED UNTIL SPAYED*

2nd boosters are booked for October 15th, her spay is scheduled for the third week of October, and she will require her third boosters by November 15th(the approved foster to adopt home can take care of the third boosters, and it will be in the signed foster to adopt contract that they agree to do so – Rabies, DAPP, Lepto & Lyme.

BHRR’s Bev – female – Labx(Predominantly Lab ~75%) – ten weeks of age(born July 23rd), utd on vaccines, will be microchipped, good with other dogs & good with people, Has been good with cats – integration is key! She is presently in a foster home that has a feline.

*We will consider homes with responsible children 10+
*No more than two children in a home

Has had some obedience(this does not exclude our mandatory adoption clause of a full round of obedience being required – NO EXCEPTIONS!)

NOTE: All blogs(scroll to the very bottom and then read upwards).

Please familiarize yourself with BHRR’s adoption mandates, processes plus policies before contacting us about a BHRR animal.

Our PetFinder and our www.birchhaven.org websites will answer most of your questions. Therefore, do not contact us asking us what our policies are, what our adoption area is, or what her adoption fee is. BHRR is a federally registered NPO operated solely by Volunteers.

We are NOT a shelter or a pound.

You CANNOT just drop by to visit her. She resides in a loving foster home, not a kennel, and BHRR has a thorough adoption process to determine if any home is a right match personality fit.

When submitting your completed adoption application contract – found on our home website – for her, please include a short introduction regarding your home, etc.

We DO NOT respond to inquiries to adopt via Petfinder nor our website nor any emails/phone calls. We ONLY will consider completed applications along with the non-refundable application fee.

NOTE: WE also will not respond to any emails that only ask a one-liner or re: adoption fees.

The adoption cost(from a r/q Rescue) or purchase cost(if you purchase from a reputable/quality Breeder is the LEAST that you shall pay over the lifetime of proper care of your pet)

 

NOTE: WE ONLY ADOPT TO SOME PARTS OF ONTARIO & QUEBEC, CANADA

*As this is a foster-to-adopt puppy, all homes must be within 2 hours of our location AND willing to drive her to her scheduled Vet appointments in Kanata, ON *
**NO Exceptions**

***AVAILABLE FOR A FOSTER TO ADOPT!**
*ADOPTION WILL NOT BE FINALIZED UNTIL SPAYED*

2nd boosters are booked for October 15th, her spay is scheduled for the third week of October, and she will require her third boosters by November 15th(the approved foster to adopt home can take care of the third boosters, and it will be in the signed foster to adopt contract that they agree to do so – Rabies, DAPP, Lepto & Lyme.

BHRR’s Ayla – female – Labx(Predominantly Lab ~75%) – ten weeks of age(born July 23rd), utd on vaccines, will be microchipped, good with other dogs & good with people, Has been good with cats – integration is key!

*We will consider homes with responsible children 10+
*No more than two children in a home

Has had some obedience(this does not exclude our mandatory adoption clause of a full round of obedience being required – NO EXCEPTIONS!)

NOTE: All blogs(scroll to the very bottom and then read upwards).

Please familiarize yourself with BHRR’s adoption mandates, processes plus policies before contacting us about a BHRR animal.

Our PetFinder and our www.birchhaven.org websites will answer most of your questions. Therefore, do not contact us asking us what our policies are, what our adoption area is, or what her adoption fee is. BHRR is a federally registered NPO operated solely by Volunteers.

We are NOT a shelter or a pound.

You CANNOT just drop by to visit her. She resides in a loving foster home, not a kennel, and BHRR has a thorough adoption process to determine if any home is a right match personality fit.

When submitting your completed adoption application contract – found on our home website – for her, please include a short introduction regarding your home, etc.

We DO NOT respond to inquiries to adopt via Petfinder nor our website or any emails/phone calls. We ONLY will consider completed applications along with the non-refundable application fee.

NOTE: WE also will not respond to any emails that only ask a one-liner or re: adoption fees.

The adoption cost(from a r/q Rescue) or purchase cost(if you purchase from a reputable/quality Breeder is the LEAST that you shall pay over the lifetime of proper care of your pet).

This evening I dropped off Miss Bev to her foster Mama.

It was a massive step for us both!

My wee beans have been a massive part of my life since they were not even ten days old.

She knew something was up – sadly had her first ever bm in the car & then even puked in the car as we arrived – yet, with some assurance, then passively ignoring, she & I got through the brief hand-off to keep stress to a minimum.

This is what she now needs. She is a very, very, very special girl, and as protective as I am about all of them, I am even more so with her.

I want each and every dog we are entrusted with to become the best dogs they can be, and it is time for them to go to this next step. I have worked incredibly hard to give them a strong foundation, to get them healthy, and they are well-adjusted solid baby beans!

She is ready to fly and spread her wings…she just needs to know this herself, and it will come fast. 

Miss Bev needs patience, understanding, and people to show her things, yet do not push her nor cross her clear boundaries, gently push them to show her how wonderful the world is….from day 1, she has been this way – even with nursing, etc., – and if you give her the time to size things up, and be patient, she will emerge as the explorer bean she is and step forth with confidence, excitement, a bounce in her step & comfort. AND expresses herself with her adorable sounds.

She needs to size things up; first, she is quiet and sweet, and the others tend to want to push her and boss her around.

Yet, she has boundaries, as easygoing and submissive as she can be, when her siblings cross them, she will take a stance, it is far coming, though. She tolerates a lot. Yet, she has backbone!

My five beans are no longer with me…I now have four.

I am so full of mixed feelings…yet all are entering the next wonderful chapter where each shall go on to continue to spread their wings and thrive.

I shall forever be their mama Gwennie and remain incredibly proud of them! 

Tomorrow, they will make their official special announcements!

They turned ten weeks old today….

 

THE ONLINE FACEBOOK FUNDRAISER FOR BHRR IS NOW LIVE!

Over 200 items!

HERE IS THE LINK TO JOIN!

Post from the wonderful organizers!

“Welcome to the online Fundraiser for Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation.
A HUGE thank you to all of the local businesses and individuals who donated to make this auction possible.
100% of the proceeds raised will go to the rescue.
All the donated businesses have been linked in each item, if you are interested in an item, please consider clicking on their Facebook page and Like/Follow them.
Please read through all of the auction guidelines below.
Auction Guidelines:
1) There is a starting bid on all items
2) Please bid in a minimum $1 increment (just to clarify, you can bid any amount as long as it is a minimum $1 increase, it can be $2, $3, $4, $5 etc.)
3) The auction closes Sunday, October 9th, at 8 PM.
4) The winner will be contacted via Messenger with a pickup location, there are pick-up locations in Brockville (North End), Oxford Station, and Kanata.
5) Payment is due immediately following the end of the auction once notification has been received that you are the successful bidder
6) Payment is due via eTransfer to carol_bruck@hotmail.com
No password is required.
Happy Bidding, and thank you for your support!
Please see the album below to bid, thank you for your support and generosity for those currently in the rescue and those to come.”

AND The Bean paparazzi photos are in!
 
OMG! They are as amazing as I knew they would be!
 
They are 8.5 weeks old in these pics. Taken Thursday, September 22nd.
 
They are looking for foster or foster-to-adopt homes!
 
Miss Bev is going to her foster home later this week. 
 
FOUR more beans to place in foster or foster to adopt homes.
 
Liz never ceases to amaze me with her talent and patience.
 
Thank you to Richard, Katherine, Cassy & John for being Bean Wranglers! 

BHRR’s Albar, BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie, BHRR’s Ayla, BHRR’s Bev & BHRR’s Nola!

Yesterday, I spent a few hours with this handsome dude & his wonderful foster fam!
 
BHRR’s Mr. Titan!
 
He remains AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
He is a WOW dog! He LOVES everyone, every dog, everything – gets so excited and is such a happy boy! Even with the one cat in the home, he has come so far – she is not a black squirrel to want to chase! He has had zero issues with their other cat. He is learning…..
 
You have come far, Mr. Titan, with your health, and now we work a bit more on those leash manners as you just want to see everyone!  You rocked our training session yesterday with me/your foster family, and it was truly lovely to see you again…… 
 
The healthier plus happy you have gotten, the younger you appear to be! I am still going to say ~5 yet, most likely a bit younger than that. You can ‘kanga-dane’ with the best of them! 
 
You will make that right-matched, forever-loving home THE most amazing of additions!
 
 
 
 

AND another one! He and Miss Chrissy have always been so unbelievably happy! Such joy!

Another of the fabu Mr. Jack!

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
Mr. Jack, one of our Three’s Company Pups is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
 
Health Status: HEALTHY!
*Mr. Jack is severely hearing/visually impaired
*He had a left eye enucleation on August 26th, 2022
 
Age: Born March 26th, 2022 (Almost six months)
 
Weight: 14.1 kgs(31 pounds) – He is a Mini Aussie

We want to keep him lean/muscled and fit.
 
Type of Home Ideal For Mr. Jack: He loves his walks and car rides and interacts well with people/dogs he meets, and we are hoping for a quiet, socially low-active level home. A residence that, while visiting family plus friends and has people over, is not hosting frequent BBQs or gatherings of large groups of people. We do not want to see him in a home with a high level of travel, with other people taking care of him. He is loyal and loves his humans, and we want him part of the family if they go camping, go to the cottage, or do other fun travels. His quietly social and needs a home that is like him. He would adore cottage life or hanging out at home with his family. Visiting friends, family, pet stores, the beach, and pet-friendly places are great too. We want an active home for Mr. Jack. As an Aussie, he is smart and must be kept physically and mentally stimulated.

He MUST go to a home that will continue to work on scent and touch training with him. A home that will not use vibration or shock collars. As Aussies can be prone to OCD behaviours, we recommend being careful with light training. Vibration training with the banging of door frames plus floors is great. So much time and effort has gone into having him be comfortable in his own skin, to not only like yet love his own company. He is quite confident and outgoing when he is comfortable and knows his surroundings. The pictures demonstrate how well he can move with being sure of himself. He will not go to a home that will feel sorry or pity him. That is of no benefit. He is normal to him, and to all that know and love him!

A home that understands and shall continue to help him learn about this big fantastic world that we live in. We want him to live a quality, filled, wonderful life rich with experiences. He is being fostered in a beautiful home in the Kemptville area yet can equally live comfortably in the city or country. We had fostered him in our house when he first arrived, and he is similarly lovely in either environment.

We want him to be happy, to live his best life every day. We want him to reach his full potential!

He is another versatile BHRR dog! He can be in a home that works ft; pt, works from home, is semi-retired or retired, etc. He will ONLY go to a home prepared to ensure that he receives the balance he requires with proper exercise, socialisation, etc.

He does not need to go to a dog or even an Aussie-experienced home. The home must be committed to his obedience, structure, and consistency, and to be patient, kind, and understanding, and while not hermits, they are not doing a hundred things each day. We want him to be treated as a cherished member in a right-matched forever-loving home.

He shares the communal water bowls and toys and understands that no human or dog will take his high-value food. He is fed in a quiet place and knows that he will be fed enough food, fed on time and that no one will take his food away.

He loves home and his friends – he needs canine friends! He also loves to explore, go on small hikes, walks, and car rides, and visit people/places that are not over the top busy. We are not advocates of dog parks. Many private properties rent out space for acreage rentals so that he can enjoy a controlled environment to run and zoom in.

He needs a home that will give him new positive and great safe, memorable experiences. If you are a home that likes to take infrequent walks/hikes/strolls, Mr. Jack is not for you…he is a healthy dog and needs to be kept emotionally and physically stimulated. He would make a great companion to get out into nature, explore and even enjoy the beach and have other exciting adventures! He can be a great cuddler when he wants to!

 
Personality/Temperament: Loving, affectionate, calm, sweet, quiet inside the home, yet loves to get outside to romp and run, and is a delightful, playful pup! He needs to be emotionally/physically properly stimulated, super lovely, social, active, affectionate, gentle, plus kind. He thrives with consistency, structure, routine, and clear open communication to understand exactly what is expected of him. He is SO praise-motivated. His whole butt wiggles and wags in happiness!
 
Previous Dog Experience: Previous Aussie experience is not required per the above, yet a home that will be committed to his wellbeing and make the minor adjustments required as he is hearing/visually impaired is essential. While we would ideally like to see him in a home with at least one right-matched personality fit dog – it is not a deal-breaker. He needs a doggie friend network. That is so important. We have friends, he needs friends too. He has enjoyed meeting other dogs! He has gotten along with every dog he has met in our home, and his foster has not said otherwise during his time with them.
 
Good With Cats: He has been OK with our clinic cat and the felines in his foster home.
 
Good with Pocket Pets: His foster home has rabbits.
 
Good with Children: NO small children. Children are fast, flighty, unpredictable, spastic, plus loud. We will consider homes with responsible children 10+ and no more than two children in the house. A home without children is our first preference, as we want Mr. Jack to be the priority. He has not had any issues with children. We had considered homes with younger children, yet, it would have to be an exceptional home.
 
Grooming: He is fine to wash and do his nails. He needs regular grooming to keep his coat healthy and looking his best.
 
Car: NO issues travelling in the car. He settles down beautifully.
 
Housebroken/Crate Trained: He is housebroken and Crate trained. We never recommend that any new addition be given too much freedom to start. It can be very overwhelming plus too stimulating for them.
 
Obedience: He requires a home that will be consistent and dedicated to continuing to help him become the best dog that he can be. His potential is enormous! As per our adoption contract, a full round of obedience is required with all of our dogs. This is not about having a dog that ‘listens.’ This is about creating a mutually respectful bonding relationship that is strong. Trust and respect work both ways.
 
Activities Suited For Him: He would excel in obedience, and why not try agility, scent work, and herding – AND yes, we have had special needs dogs do herding classes! – etc., with him! He is a hoot! So eager to please! The sky is the limit with this boy! He is a dream pup! When he is older, he could make an incredible therapy dog too.
 
Loves & Bad Habits: Like any dog, he is not perfect. He is perfect in all of his imperfections, though! NOT to mention super handsome with his merle colouring. He can have some anxiety, especially since his eye enucleation, and this has been worked on as he adjusts to having even less vision.
 
He is an awesome dog! So low maintenance! He LOVES everyone and everything!
 
Anxieties/Worries: It is integral that the right matched personality fit home and does not spend 24/7 with him. During this pandemic, we still need groceries; we should still go out and walk about; we should still get in our cars and go for a small drive to go somewhere to do something! Time has been spent having him learn to not only like yet enjoy his own company. As we need our alone time, he must do too. He is a solid and stable dog, and we do not want any SA behaviours to develop.
 
As we have stated for over 26 years now, we will NEVER rush any dogs’ rehabilitation journey, we do not flip dogs, and we are not desperate to adopt them out.
 
We will always place up for adoption the dogs that can be adopted and safe haven all others that cannot be placed up for adoption due to medical and/or behavioural reasons.
 
We do not take in hundreds of dogs yearly; we only took in 6 dogs in 2021 as it is about helping the next in need of us, giving them top-quality care, and not about taking in numbers. In 2022, we have ONLY taken in 16 dogs to date.
 
After 26+ years, we know that we cannot please everyone, which means that BHRR is not the rescue to be followed, supported, and believed in by everyone. We remain small plus mighty, and as we go through this next transitional stage for BHRR, we shall continue to operate with a zero-tolerance approach, providing up and beyond care to the animals.
 
Our mandates have never changed, and they will remain the same as long as we are around; the animals shall always be done right by as our priority.
 
Our adoption success rates remain second to no other group out there – 100% for over ten years of operating, and now 99% as we go through year 26, and we are excited as we go through this slow transition for BHRR!
 
You have come so far, Mr. Jack, and we are delighted you are making your special announcement!

***Thank you again to Megan & her partner for temp fostering him & to Alison for taking his paparazzi pictures!***

 

Mr. Bruce is doing well.
 
He needs to learn about the comforts of a comfy dog bed….
 
I am told that he is very gentle about taking treats, has been introduced to their own dog, and was great & this picture gives an idea of how skinny he is.
 
He has a sore area between his toes on one foot and has been battling ear plus eye infections & they had put him on trazodone for his kennel anxiety. He is also on Gabapentin.
 
We will let him decompress, settle in, and work on gradually reducing his trazodone and getting him healthy.
 
He is understandably confused and nervous. So much change since his owner died, and then he has been in a shelter since the beginning of September.
 
He has an appointment with our vet scheduled for next Saturday so we can re-weigh – the shelter has him listed at 50 kg(110 pounds) & I am not sure if that is just an estimate. He will get more dewormer, be placed on more flea/tick/hw meds, we will do some bloodwork, and get boosters if he is healthy enough. We will check his ears and eyes, and he will have a thorough exam.
 
They also estimated his age to be around 3. As he becomes healthy and happier, we will check his teeth – not an accurate method either, yet a good tool – we can better determine his age.
 
So many see the ‘grey’ or ‘white’ muzzle and think older. The masking gene is a genetic marker and can emerge when a Dane is not even one year of age, like premature greying in humans. From the pics and video, I am estimating 2-3 years of age max myself. We will see!
 
 

Safe with his foster Mama!!
 
I cannot wait to meet you!!
 
He will have an apt scheduled with our Vet ASAP!
 
 
 

He is on his way!!!

 

****URGENT***
 
3-month-old female Newf/Pyr pup in need.
 
The shelter did cherry eye surgery on one eye – it failed – and now the other eye also needs to be done. The picture was before the first eye surgery failed.
 

She is only three months old.

We are calling her ‘Asante’ – Swahili for ‘Thankful/Grateful’ as that is how we feel towards so many that have come together to enable us to help her – From the Shelter reaching out, to the Volunteers stepping up to foster her, to the Vet Team that will be on hand to help us get her healthy and to the strong BHRR village that will surround her with support/kindness!

‘Asante’ – is also an African name meaning “thank you”

I know that this wee sweetheart shall also be thankful to be able to live the life she always deserved!

 
 

Stay tuned!
 
On Friday, September 16th, Mr. Jack, one of our special needs Three’s Company Aussie Pups, had his paparazzi photo shoot!
 
He will shortly be making his own special announcement. 
 
To date: $820 has been raised to go towards his emergency eye enucleation bills – the final bill was over $2,000 with the Trazodone I requested for him.
 
Thank you to Megan for fostering him and Alison for taking the wonderful photos.
 

AND you know you have a great toy WHEN everyone wants it! Originally, there were four Beans on the toy, yet, one became distracted, yet Carol managed to get a picture of three of them on the same toy just romping along!

Some more pics!

We have Miss Maybelle Cutie on her own, and Mr. Albar leads the charge in the other picture with Miss Bev hot on his heels and Miss Maybelle behind him. As to who is lying in the back….hmmm, not sure…we know it is either Miss Nola or Miss Ayla! 😀

*Pictures complimentary of Carol!

The Beans had their next play date today – thanks again to Katherine, Richard & Carol. 
 
I cannot believe we were there for over 3.5 hours!! I kept saying I did not want to overstay our welcome.
 
They had another amazing experience!
 
I was watching Miss Bev closely as she was trembling at the Vet yesterday when someone was holding her – she was only a bit worried during her vaccine, ok for nails, etc., yet trembled later when a staff member was holding her – yet, she was her normal, size everything up first before plunging right in to explore and snuggled and cuddled and was her loving self today! So, not sure why that was the case at one point yesterday yet, we are making sure all pups get safely exposed to many sights, sounds, and smells in trusted hands.
 
They turn eight weeks old tomorrow and have their professional photo shoot on the 22nd – weather permitting – to make special announcements!
 
I will be looking closely at the weather for other play visit opportunities for them too!
 

AND my last post of my night is a heavy-hearted one.
 
As folks know, we have our Three’s Company pups. We have been very upfront from our inception in 1996 about the medical issues DM(double merle) dogs can have.
 
AND, we have explained how the really special needs dogs like Miss Janet has been over her two siblings. We stated that we were unsure if she would ever be able to be placed up for adoption and that it did not matter to us. We were first told there were two DM Aussies, yet there were three, and we rescued them without hesitation.
 
We are always about trying to help the next in need of us……adoptions are not our priority, never have been. We would never place that kind of pressure on our dogs or ourselves to set that kind of expectation. The dogs do not lack for anything and are cherished for life. Those that are adopted that is wonderful; those that are not adopted, that is equally wonderful. They are safe….
 
Miss Janet was the most severely impaired – blind/deaf, and has done so well with her touch plus scent training.
 
We have worked to educate others that DM dogs can have IS, skin issues, IBS, IBD, neurological, behavioural concerns, etc., and not just have their eyesight and/or hearing affected.
 
Many DM dogs do not begin to have IS until they are 2-3 years of age. In those cases, our experience has demonstrated that many can continue to go on to live amazing quality-filled lives for years.
However, when a DM puppy, like Miss Janet(Mr. Oslo was the same way), begins to have seizures at such a young age – she is not even six months old – it is incredibly concerning, and QOL needs to be discussed/addressed with each seizure, especially when they are clusters.
 
All of this to say, that sweet Miss Janet, as of 9:39 PM last night, began to seize, and she seized so violently that she hit her head on the support bars of one of our end tables, wounding the top of her head quite badly.
 
She has begun phenobarbital, and we will add Keppra as needed.
 
It has now been almost 23 hours since her last seizure, and the journaling has begun.
 
This picture is an older one…..as she remains on seizure watch in emerge to be administered IV meds as necessary. Should she remain seizure free for 24 hours, she can be released.
We committed to her, as we did with her siblings, and we will fight the good fight with her…..
 
This also means she cannot remain on Nexgard Spectra for flea/tick/hw as it lowers the seizure threshold. Her spay is also being postponed and quite possibly not done if we cannot get her seizure activity under control to have a safe surgery protocol, including pre-med in place.
 
My heart is a heavy one tonight….yes, I well knew this can and could happen to any of our special needs Danes or dogs. It does not make the cross any easier to bear when it does. 
Her Vet Bills to date are just over $1,100
 
Please keep her in your thoughts. I love my wee Aussie babies…..they are so full of life and are personality filled & love everyone/everything!
 

The Beans Update!
 
This is Miss Maybelle Cutie – 6 weeks of age!
*A HUGE fav of the staff today – content to be held/loved. She is quite the quiet diva princess!*
 
Named thanks to Kendel & her two handsome young boyz! Thank you!
 
All of The Beans were at LAH today for their first vaccines – WOW! They will be eight weeks old on Saturday!
 
They have their paparazzi shoot on the 22nd and will be making some special announcements after that!
 
They also have another play date scheduled for tomorrow!
 
Thank you, Cassy, for loving on them today as they were brought in, and out by myself and some of my fantastic work colleagues! They got to hang out in the sun – they will soon be able to get out of the xpen! – have a snack, water, play, and pounce all over Cassy! 
 
Miss Nola – has a Grade 1/2 HM – it could be harmless, she could outgrow it, and we will monitor closely. Her hind end is strong now! YAY!
 
All puppies were re-weighed, thoroughly checked over, had their nails done, loved on, smooched, and they have their next de-worming plus will be old enough to begin flea/tick/hw meds. We will do that tomorrow. Having had their first vaccines today, they had a busy enough day.
 
Puppy 1 – 0.38 kgs – deceased as of 8:49 AM Thursday, August 4th(passed away just hours after they were surrendered to rescue)
 
Puppy 2 BHRR’s Nola – (Miss Fighter Bean)
August 4th – 0.38 kgs as well
August 8th – 0.62 kgs (1 lb, 6 oz)
August 11th – 0.82 kgs (1 lb, 12.8 oz)
September 15th – 4.9 kg (10.78 pounds)
 
Puppy 3 BHRR’s Beaver(Bev) – (Miss Explorer Bean)
August 4th – 0.48 kgs
August 8th – 0.71 kgs (1 lb, 9 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs (10.34 pounds)
 
Puppy 4 BHRR’s Albar – (Mr. Warrior Bean)
August 4th – 0.46 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
September 15th – 5.2 kgs (11.44 pounds)
 
Puppy 5 BHRR’s Maybelle Cutie – (Miss Diva Princess Bean)
August 4th – 0.56 kgs
August 8th – 0.99 kgs (2 lbs, 3 oz)
September 15th – 5.3 kgs (11.66 pounds)
 
Puppy 6 BHRR’s Ayla (Miss Busy Mobile Bean)
August 4th – 0.64 kgs
August 8th – 0.79 kgs (1 lb, 12 oz)
August 11th – 1.03 kg (2 lbs, 3.6 oz)
September 15th – 4.7 kgs – same as BHRR’s Bev (10.34 pounds)
*We know that she was ‘chill’ due to still battling aspiration pneumonia yet is now a busy bean!
 
All puppies other than Miss Bev, prominently resemble Labs. Miss Bev is now losing more of her browns/brindles and is developing a stunning wavy black coat down her spine/sides. Lab yup, yet what else?! It does not matter at the end of the day!
 
These are the items that we are still in need of:
What we still urgently need:
1) Essentials XL puppy pee pads – we are now working on going outside, yet, we still need more as they become housebroken. At six weeks of age, they are doing amazing!
2) Large breed puppy toys, please, not small or toy. They will be too small – desperate for!
3) Downy or Gain liquid fabric softener
4) a 14 kg bag of PVD Large Breed Essential Care kibble
5) Five Wiggle Bumz collars – quick release buckle 14-16″ – for when they can wear collars, width 1.0″
6) 2 x Dirty PawPrint Dog Runners – so much easier to wash/keep clean and is soft, durable, and very comfy!
 
Financial donations can be made via PayPal gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer at contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Donations can be dropped off in Kanata at a mutually convenient date/time OR snail mailed to or dropped in our donation shed:
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0
 
 

Mr. Jack is having his own paparazzi photo shoot on the 16th!
 
He will then make his special announcement! 
 
Unfortunately, this had to be postponed due to his emergency eye enucleation.
 
This is a pic sent to me recently by Taryn of EVC when he was there for his surgery. 
 
His emergency Vet bills were over $2,000 and raised to date is just over $770.
 
Mr. Jack was in excellent hands at EVC, and I have so many to thank – Olivia, Taryn, Dr. Ammar & Trina, to name a few! I still have to bring thank you goodies to them as a small token of my deepest appreciation.
 
I am still working on trying to line up a professional pic session for my beans – they will be 8 weeks old next Saturday & will hopefully be making their own special announcements after that. 
 
They are at the vet on the 15th for re-weighs, flea/tick meds, plus their next de-worming & vaccines. Big day! I cannot believe they are now seven weeks old. Thanks, Cassy, for offering to puppy love on them at this visit.
 
Being black/dark dogs, the big black dog syndrome is in effect, and I want to try and get the best pics possible – I also wanted 6-week professional photos, yet, sadly, that did not happen.
Then they will have their next play date on the 16th.
 
The beans also had their first bonfires last night and movies under the stars with dinner! They rocked it!!! Thanks to all of the loving hands – Loralei, Kelly, Cassy & John, Angie & fam, etc.
 
Once we receive some monies still owing from last night, we will post the final total raised. 
 

This young adult, ~3 years, neutered male, now up to date on vaccines fawn Merle Great Dane.
 
He was an owner surrender. His owner died. His name is ‘Bruce’. 
 
Weight:~110 pounds
 
Needs a gradual introduction to cats, good with dogs, is an affectionate couch potato boy, displaying anxiety/stress in a shelter kennel. Very normal for Danes. They just do not fare well in a kennel environment.
 
 
May be an image of dog
 

The Bean’s 6-week-old photo shoot. We had hoped to line up someone with a bit more professional experience than Sean/I, yet that did not work out. SOOOOOO, Sean & I are always up for a challenge PLUS a laugh, and this is Miss Nola Bean from today’s photo shoot! 
 
Miss Nola was named by Jan!
 
AND……
 
Bean Needs!
 
What we still urgently need:
 
1) Essentials XL puppy pee pads – we are now working on going outside but we still need more as they become housebroken. At 6 weeks of age, they are doing fantastic!
2) Large breed puppy toys, please, not small or medium. They will be too small – desperate for!
3) Downy or Gain liquid fabric softener
4) a 14 kg bag of PVD Large Breed Essential Care kibble
5) Five Wiggle Bumz collars – quick release buckle 14-16″ – for when they can wear collars, width 1.0.”
6) 2 x Dirty PawPrint Dog Runners – so much easier to wash/keep clean and is soft, durable, and very comfy!
 
Financial donations can be made via PayPal gwen@birchhaven.org or via email transfer contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Donations can be dropped off in Kanata at a mutually convenient date/time OR snail mailed to:
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0
 

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

BHRR’s Titan is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!

Health Status: HEALTHY!

Age: ~5 years

Weight: ~130 pounds. We want to keep him lean/muscled and fit.

Type of Home Ideal For Mr. Titan: He loves his walks and car rides and interacts well with people/dogs he meets, and we are hoping for a quiet, socially low-active level home. A residence that, while visiting family plus friends and has people over, is not hosting frequent BBQs or gatherings of large groups of people. We do not want to see him in a home with a high level of travel, with other people taking care of him. He is loyal and loves his humans, and we want him part of the family if they go camping, go to the cottage, or do other fun travels. His quietly social and needs a home that is like him. He would adore cottage life or hang out at home with his family. Visiting friends, family, pet stores, and pet-friendly places are great too.

A home that understands and shall continue to help him learn about this big fantastic world that we live in. We want him to live a quality, filled, wonderful life rich with experiences. He missed out on so much before his rescue. He is being fostered in a wonderful home in the city yet can equally live comfortably in the country. We had fostered him in our house when he first arrived, and he is equally lovely in either environment.

We want him to be happy, to live his best life every day. We want him to reach his full potential!

He is another versatile BHRR dog! He can be in a home that works ft; pt works from home, semi-retired or retired, etc. He will ONLY go to a home prepared to ensure that he receives the balance he requires with proper exercise, socialisation, etc.

He does not need to go to a dog or even a Dane-experienced home. The home must be committed to his obedience, structure, and consistency, and to be patient, kind, and understanding, and while not hermits, they are not doing a hundred things each day. We want him to be treated as a cherished member in a right-matched forever-loving home.

He shares the communal water bowls and toys and understands that no human or dog will take his high-value food. He is fed in a quiet place and knows that he will be fed enough food, fed on time and that no one will take his food away.

He is very gentle in taking treats!

He loves home and his friends – he needs canine friends! He also loves to explore, go on small hikes, walks, and car rides, and visit people/places that are not over the top busy. We are not advocates of dog parks.

He needs a home that will give him new positive and great safe, memorable experiences. If you are a home that likes to take infrequent walks/hikes/strolls, Mr. Titan is not for you…he is a healthy Dane and needs to be kept emotionally and physically stimulated. He would make a great companion to get out into nature, explore and even enjoy the beach and having other small adventures! He also makes the best movie and book reading companion.

Personality/Temperament: Loving, affectionate, calm, quiet inside the home, yet loves to get outside to romp, run, and is figuring out so much more about playing! He needs to be emotionally/physically properly stimulated, uber-sweet, social, active, affectionate, gentle, plus kind. He thrives with consistency, structure, routine, and clear open communication to understand exactly what is expected of him. He is such a character!

Previous Dog Experience: Previous dog experience is not required per the above. While we would ideally like to see him in a home with at least one right-matched personality fit dog – it is not a deal-breaker. He needs a doggie friend network. That is so important. We have friends, he needs friends too. He has enjoyed meeting other dogs! He has gotten along with every dog he has met in our home, and his foster has not said otherwise during his time with them.

Good With Cats: He has been OK with our clinic cat, and while he is fine with one of the cats in his foster home, he still does show some interest in their other cat. We are therefore leaning on him being placed in a no-cat home. We have been told that squirrels are his mortal enemy!  

Good with Pocket Pets: Unknown. We would not recommend it.

Good with Children: NO small children. Children are fast, flighty, unpredictable, spastic, plus loud. We will consider homes with responsible children 12+ and no more than two children in the house. A home without children is our first preference, as we want Mr. Titan to be the priority. He has not had any issues with children.

Grooming: He is fine to wash and do his nails. He only needs a soft bristle brush on his coat once a week, and we recommend a monthly bath.

Car: NO issues travelling in the car. He settles down beautifully.

Housebroken/Crate Trained: He is housebroken and Crate trained. We never recommend that any new addition be given too much freedom to start. It can be very overwhelming plus too stimulating for them.

Obedience: He requires a home that will be consistent and dedicated to continuing to help him become the best dog that he can be. His potential is enormous! His harness manners are still a work in progress. He becomes excited when he sees other dogs on walks. Distraction training is being worked on, too, in this area. He is fine walking on the way back home on a loose lead.

Activities Suited For Him: Cherished family companion!

He loves tug of war, his walks, ‘dance’ parties where he prances with happiness! Keeping you company while you work on the computer – the best kind of supervisor!

Loves & Bad Habits: While he is excellent with one of the cats in his foster home, he still does show some interest in their other cat. We are therefore leaning on him being placed in a no-cat home. We have been told that squirrels are his mortal enemy!  

Per his foster home, ‘full on early AM head/face rubs are a must!’

He does still pull on his harness when out and about. He is so excited to be soaking up and experiencing all of the things that he lacked in life before being rescued. On the way back from walks, he can be on a loose lead, yet, he becomes super excited when he sees other dogs – does meet and greet appropriately – that he will bark too. All things that are being worked on. He is like that four-month-old puppy in a five-year-old Dane body.

He loves keeping his one human company while they work from home.

Like any dog, he is not perfect. He is perfect in all of his imperfections, though! NOT to mention super handsome with his merle colouring.

He is an awesome dog! So low maintenance!

Anxieties/Worries: It is integral that the right matched personality fit home does not spend 24/7 with him. During this pandemic, we still need groceries; we should still go out and walk about; we should still get in our cars and go for a small drive to go somewhere to do something! Time has been spent having him learn to not only like yet enjoy his own company. As we need our alone time, he must do too. He is a solid and stable dog, and we do not want any SA behaviours to develop.

As we have stated for over 26 years now, we will NEVER rush any dogs’ rehabilitation journey, we do not flip dogs, and we are not desperate to adopt them out.

We will always place up for adoption the dogs that can be adopted and safe haven all others that cannot be placed up for adoption due to medical and/or behavioural reasons.

We do not take in hundreds of dogs yearly; we only took in 6 dogs in 2021 as it is about helping the next in need of us, giving them top-quality care, and not about taking in numbers. In 2022, we have ONLY taken in 15 dogs to date.

After 26+ years, we know that we cannot please everyone, which means that BHRR is not the rescue to be followed, supported, and believed in by everyone. We remain small plus mighty, and as we go through this next transitional stage for BHRR, we shall continue to operate with a zero-tolerance approach, providing up and beyond care to the animals.

Our mandates have never changed, and they will remain the same as long as we are around; the animals shall always be done right by as our priority.

Our adoption success rates remain second to no other group out there – 100% for over ten years of operating, and now 99% as we go through year 26, and we are excited as we go through this slow transition for BHRR!

You have come so far, Mr. Titan, and we are delighted you are making your special announcement!

Stay tuned! Mr. Titam is going to make his special announcement soon!
 
Mr. Titan had his paparazzi photo shoot yesterday – Thanks Alison!
 
Here is one of the photos from yesterday.

UPDATE: Mr. Jack is healing well from his left eye enucleation.
 
He is scheduled to come to LAH next Wednesday to have the incision checked & sutures removed – Day 12th. Sometimes they have to stay in longer than even the 12-14 days – for example, Miss Jamila’s had many that we could not remove until day 16 & day 19.
 
He is on two types of pain meds – Metacam and Gabapentin (which can also cause a bit of sedation) plus antibiotics – Clavaseptin. The Metacam will also help with inflammation.
 
***URGENT*** ***Donations For Jack***
 
**$770 donated to date!** Thank you! 
 
The final bill is $1992.73 + $38.79 for more Trazodone
 
So grateful to EVC for being able to schedule this urgent surgery so quickly!! 
 
We are now in desperate need of funds.
 
We truly would be deeply grateful for anything….
 
Donations to his emergency surgery can be made via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org
Or via email transfer to contactbhrr@gmail.com
 
Thank you from our hearts for any consideration to his cause. Even $5 is not too little!
 
Mr. Jack, your special announcement will have to wait a bit longer, yet we will get there!
 

This handsome dude is having his paparazzi photo shoot tomorrow!
 
Then, once we have the pictures, he shall be ready to make his own special announcement.
 
So many are to thank for stepping up to help us save this amazing Great Dane! 
 
Mr. Titan, you are such a wonderful boy!
 
From his amazing foster mama:
 
‘Fun facts about this fella,
He loves tossing the pull toy. We have a side tube with a handle that he loves to fetch and return and tug.
He loves dance parties. If you dance he will chug and dance around you with a few bounces. Never jumps on you. Squirrels remain his mortal enemy. Full on early morning head and face rub is essential to start his day.’
 
Leash manners with distraction training are still a work in progress. He is like a 12-week-old puppy exploring the world, yet in a 5-year-old Great Dane body!
 

AND GSPs hang out together too!
 
Our 2.5+-year-old GSP Tango with Mr. James. 
 
Mr. James is trying to stay awake!  He is literally nodding off & my pic is a bit dark as I turned almost all the lights off so he could doze….