My last post of my night as I am going to spend the rest of it loving on and cuddling our BBBBB Hailey as it is our last sleepie together! This stunning Senior GD shall be heading to her forever loving adoptive home tomorrow! My heart is so happy yet, I am also going to well up in letting her go…..

Gentle Reminder that the Flash Auction of the one-of-a-kind limited edition BHRR ‘CHAIN OF SUCCESS’ Key Chain to help raise the $1,200 we need for a surgery deposit for BHRR’s Maverick to have the implant removed from his front left leg(he developed an infection and rejection of the plate), ENDS Sunday November 15th @ 9 PM EST

To view the details of this beautiful item, the auction rules and to bid, please scroll down this page to the item…should be three posts down the page!

Current High bid is to Annette for $50!

Good luck, good night and the BHRR and Boerskins Clan are keeping Paris in our hearts tonight……

BHRR did an extremely wonderful and emotional APPROVED ADOPTION today!!

BBBBB Hailey, our senior black gorgeous Great Dane that we posted about earlier this week will be heading to her forever loving adoptive home next week.

I am so so so so happy for her. She and we have waited so patiently for that right matched forever loving home to find her and ‘see’ her for who she is and I am welled up with tears I am so happy…..the best of tears possible…..

This stunning inside and out gal has waited since May of 2013 to be adopted yet, no more…..you are going to have such a beautiful life!!

She may be 8 in years yet she has so many gifts to give others and lessons to teach so many….

Never enough thanks and appreciation being sent to this wonderful home, who has also adopted from us in the past for opening up their hearts and home to her….

They called her a ‘sweetheart’ and they are so right!!

Congratulations to her new family and to her!!!

BHRR’s Hailey, you are going to have what I always wanted for you, a special amazing home to call your very own…..

Going to go grab another tissue now…..all my fellow team-mates working with me at KAH today are equally so thrilled!

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Someone is heading for a play date today!

BHRR’s Hailey! Our senior stunning BBBBB!

Not the best photo!

She weighed 50.7 kgs (111.54 pounds) today at KAH and we also did an Accuplex – Heartworm and TickBorne Panel as she was due this year. 🙂

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November is ADOPT-A-SENIOR-Month!

Meet BHRR’s Hailey, one of our BBBBB’s – she turned 8 years young in October.
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!
*Please consider sharing her photo/blog*
http://www.birchhaven.org/archives/category/adoption/hailey

National Adopt a Senior Pet Month, which runs through the end of November, has so many rescues hoping that those looking to adopt a new canine companion will consider adding a senior pet to their home.

Senior pets tend to spend the longest amount of time at a shelter or rescue before finding their forever home — if they find one at all, that is. Older canines and felines of advanced age have higher euthanasia rates than their younger counterparts.

BHRR’s Hailey has been patiently waiting since May 23rd, 2013, as have we and all of her fans for her right matched forever loving home to find her. BHRR’s Hailey has a sad added disadvantage, she is also black….the Big Black Dog Syndrome, a well known phenomena comes into play for her also. While we love our BBBBB’s – black dogs, especially BIG or Giant black dogs, are the hardest colour to adopt.

She is affectionate, patient, kind, loving, calm yet more than active/energetic enough for wonderful walks and strolls and has had many years to perfect that Dane Lean and Bed Hogger plus Foot warming skills!

When people meet her, they are quite surprised to know that this gorgeous BBBBB is now 8. Age is but a number, really….senior pets have so much to give and share in loyalty, love, heart plus soul. You can truly be saving a life that someone else turned away from…..

When you adopt an older pet, you know pretty much what to expect. Senior cats and dogs are already fully grown/mature, their personalities have developed, and many are already trained. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t teach an old dog new tricks! Senior dogs are often easier to train than puppies due to their calm demeanor and prior interactions with human companions. Older pets can be great matches for so many homes.

Here is what one of person who had a special picnic play date had to say about BHRR’s Hailey:

” She has wowed everyone she has met today. Just got back from another walk and she is snoozing away again 😀 ”

Here is a testimonial from M. Wright from her experience with  BHRR’s Hailey at the end of September 2015:

“When I met her at Dine with the Dogs I completely fell in love with her! She came to quietly sit in front of me during all the excitement and would softly put her paw on my leg if I stopped petting her, asking for more loving 🙂 . She would be the perfect dog to cuddle with on the couch for a movie 🙂 “

It SOON shall be time! You have been asking and patiently waiting…..get your thinking caps on! 

It shall soon be time to sign-up for our 4th(FOURTH) ANNUAL GIVE it ‘UP’ 4 Autumn Event!

The deserving BHRR doggie in 2015 to benefit from this one-of-a-kind unique Fundraiser is BHRR’s Baby Kaos. Past years have seen BHRR’s Lord Stafford, BHRR’s Breen and of course, BHRR’s Autumn benefit from the kindness of others!

This Fundraiser shall run from Tuesday November 3rd, 2015 @ 12:01 AM to Tuesday November 17th, 2015 @ 11:59 PM.

WHAT will you consider to ‘give up’ for 14 days to help BHRR’s Baby Kaos?’

Please do EMAIL us contactbhrr@gmail.com with what you are ‘giving up’ to participate! We hope you may join us in ‘giving something up’ to help raise monies for BHRR’s Baby Kaos!

In the past some have given up treats or coffee and put that money away to donate, others are giving up what the money they would have spent on lessons such as riding or tennis(or putting the equivalent in a jar to donate!) AND, others have put in their jar, donations for cravings that they have – chocolate, cigarettes etc. Feel free to be creative!

More information to be found on the poster below and here is the link with all the details!

Thank you Barry for this outstanding poster!

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Come VISIT us at PV Stittsville(1250 Main Street, Stittsville) for some HOWL-O-Ween Fun!

Saturday October 24th 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM & 
Sunday October 25th 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Dog Baths $15, 
Nails $10, 
Ear Cleaning $10, 
Microchips $40 including registration – Cats/Dogs must be minimally 8 weeks of age
Merchandise for Sale! 
Visit some of the ‘big dawgs’ of BHRR! Dogs TBA
*No Appointments necessary! 
RAIN OR SHINE!

**BHRR is still in search of a few approved Volunteers to lend a hand Saturday and/or Sunday! Please email contactbhrr@gmail.com if you can help!**

All monies raised shall go towards paying off our current accumulated Vet Bills for amazing deserving dogs like BHRR’s Kaos, BHRR’s Raven and just this past week BHRR’s Porridge.

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NOTE:

From Monday October 19th to Monday November 2nd, 2015 inclusive, BHRR will not be open for adoptions or the intake of adoption applications.

We do not adopt out around the Halloween season and many others Rescues, shelters, pounds etc. have also begun to follow a similar protocol.

………………………………………

We do not believe it is in the best interest of the animals in our program, especially for dark coloured dogs.

During this time, BHRR is available 24/7 as always for requests for assistance of animals in need.

NOTICE: BHRR shall be closed from today to Wednesday September 23rd, inclusive. Our facebook page shall also be unpublished during that time for thanks to an incredible angel dream team network of our solid top notch beautiful strong village and community, we are making a dream come true for an extremely special young lady.

Any adoption applications that come in during this time shall be processed in the order they arrive upon the re-opening of BHRR.

ONLY urgent requests for assistance shall be replied to as we are here 24/7 to help the Danes and other Giants in need! All non urgent matters will be addressed upon the re-opening of BHRR.

Requests can be emailed to gwen@birchhaven.org or contactbhrr@gmail.com or text to 613-725-4279 or calls can be made to the same number.

For any offers of items for our September 26th Annual Dine With THE BHRR DOGGIES Event, – looking for brochures, pens, pencils, key chains, promo materials for 40 Loot bags – AND more auction items, please do email gwen@birchhaven.org We would be beyond grateful for any consideration to our cause.

We are a small group and host very few planned fundraisers a year and would embrace any gift certificates or other items for human, animal – cat, dog, horse, bird etc. – with such sincere gratitude plus appreciation. Thank you from our hearts in advance!

We are also going to stop our unique 2016 BHRR calendar sales at this time. If you have not yet ordered yours, we shall see if we have any left when we re-open to be purchased.

I leave all with this great photo of BHRR’s Salem below from her special picnic play date with the Maracle family! Thank you for the photo!

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This Saturday!

Global Pet Foods – Hintonburg very kindly asked if we would do one of our popular mini microchip clinics at their location and we shall be at their lovely location

Saturday August 22nd from 10 am – 4 pm!
*No appointments necessary

*Microchips $40 includes registration
*Nails $10
*Ear Cleaning $10
*Face Painting and Feathers by the ever talented and kind Dee Dick
*Famous Pooch Smooch Red Carpet Sessions $5
*Merchandise from sale
*Some baked goodies

We are still ISO: Three approved BHRR Volunteers to help out this day! Please email contactbhrr@gmail.com if interested!

THANK you Global Pet Foods – Hintonburg for this great opportunity to see more cats/dogs(minimum 8 weeks of age) microchipped!

All monies raised shall go to BHRR’s Kaos’ mounting Vet Bills. He is the 6 week old Great Dane puppy that we were asked to assist that has a growth plate fracture and a knee concern.

AND here is the event page to join!

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HERE is the poster! To our 8th Annual KAH/BHRR Microchip/Nail Trim & BBQ Fundraiser being hosted at Kanata Animal Hospital on Sunday July 12th from 8 AM – 4 PM.
*No Appointments necessary
*Dogs/Cats need to be minimally 8 weeks to be microchipped
*Bake table
*Silent Auction
*Photography
*Face-Painting & MORE!

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Microchips $40 includes registration – for cats, dogs – minimum age is 8 weeks
Nails $10
Ear Cleaning 410

Saturday: BHRR Dogs Attending: BHRR’s Herbie-licious, The Love Bug, BHRR’s Angel Noelle and BHRR’s Riot
Sunday: BHRR’s Dogs Attending: BHRR’s Salem, BHRR’s Liberty and possibly BHRR’s Hercules – the third dog is not yet 100% determined.

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GENTLE Reminder:
BHRR's Gretta's angels have been working quietly plus hard behind the scenes on a special Fundraiser event to help raise some much needed monies to help her with the bills from her cruciate repair surgery and rehab journey.
Thanks is appreciatively extended to Pet Valu – Manotick for helping us, AND, for hosting this event on Sunday February 15th, 2015 from 10 AM – 4 PM
This is the 'Grooming For Gretta – Sweetheart Spa' Fundraiser!
No APPOINTMENTS necessary!
BHRR is still ISO: two more approved BHRR Volunteers willing and open to helping lend a hand that day! 
This is not a community education or public awareness event for BHRR yet, we will have some merchandise for sale such as our signature leash sleeves plus magnets. smile emoticon
Please email contactbhrr@gmail.com
THANKS once again MUST be shouted out to BHRR BOD member B. Cole for such an amazing poster!

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Winter Wonderland At BHRR
February 3rd, 2015
It was time for a new and updated Photo!
All of them are waiting for the kids to come home from school – what they do not seem to realize is Mason was already home! 😉
Part of how I got to spend my Birthday….many of our approved temp fosters have come to spend the day to play and visit – my own car would not start – darn cold! – and, so, instead of meeting at a local 'best kept secret' walking place, they came here to play on our 148 acres!

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Back in December, Fran from Global Pet Foods Bank Street (1176 Bank Street) phoned plus emailed us to inquire as to our thoughts in being the rescue to benefit from the annual Global 'Show Us Your Heart' Campaign.https://www.facebook.com/GlobalPetsBank
Fran said that they have been following some of the great work that BHRR has been doing and, wanted to direct funds raised during their annual campaign in 2015, our way. 
To say that we felt humbled and deeply honoured, was putting it lightly. We feel so privileged to have been chosen by Global Pet Foods Bank Street, out of so many out there in the community doing such much needed and essential work helping animals…….
This exciting campaign begins January 31st and shall run through to February 14th, 2015
If you visit their store, you can make a donation in any amount you desire, and, you can write your name or that of your beloved pet(s) on a beautiful red heart and, it will be displayed with such pride and thanks at their store!
All monies raised shall go towards BHRR's Gretta's Vet Bills – she took a bad fall at her approved temp foster home and, we have to now repair the cruciate in her back left leg. Her surgery is January 29th at Liston Animal Hospital. It was the first surgical date we could get…….
Thank you Global Pet Foods Bank Street AGAIN for selecting our small r/q Rescue to support……be it $5 or $50 or more that is raised during your annual campaign, it will mean the world to us!!! AND, to BHRR's Gretta!
Barry, thank you SO much again for working with me on this poster. It is gorgeous!

showusyourheart - new (Medium)

Our 2nd ANNUAL 'Breaking Bills Baking' Online Auction' starts TODAY – Saturday January 17th, @ 7 AM EST!


We will have 40 extremely generously donated and, delicious items. THANKS to all the baking angels that are making this annual event possible!!!
All monies raised in this Annual Fundraiser shall go towards BHRR's Maverick's Vet Bills. His current Bills are over $15,300.00 which includes three leg surgeries.
To read more details about the auction(those darn rules!) and, to view the items up for grabs so far….please visit the below link and scroll down the page…….Our latest new delectable array of items include Rice Krispies, Macaroons and, at least 5 l of the special pasta sauce that we served at our annual September "DINE WITH THE BHRR DOGGIES' event.

If anyone else would like to donate a baked goodie or goodies, it is NOT too late…all items do not have to be made until the auction is over to ensure freshness for the winner(s), please do email contactbhrr@gmail.com


Already 2015 is shaping up to be another extremely busy year for the special animals in need of us, as we have the Male Blue GD with the untreated broken leg and, have another Dane – BHRR's Gretta that will require a cruciate repair(Surgery is on January 29th) NOT to mention The Lord Stafford and his continued mounting Vet Bills.


We were able to assist 16 dogs in 2014, and, 24 dogs in 2013. We will assist as many as we can responsibly take on with quality and, resources in 2015.


THANK you Barry for working with me on this gorgeous poster!!!!
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We will be out to visit around 11 AM on Saturday ourselves to get some photos' and, I am hoping to bring BHRR's Ichabod Crane, BHRR's Zayna and BHRR's Salem for their very first XMAS photo's!
I heard a rumor that BHRR's Mav 'could' also put in a celebrity appearance!

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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 so many years.
Our XMAS Shut down period for this year is from Monday December 15th, 2014 to Tuesday January 6th 2015 inclusive.
Any applications received during this time will be processed/reviewed on Wednesday January 7th, 2015!
During this time, BHRR is available 24/7 as always for requests for assistance of animals in need and will do intake.
Thank you for your continued understanding – The BHRR Team

How blessed are we that Chuck Desjardins Photography and, Pet Valu Innes & Belcourt(3838 Innes Road, Orleans, Ontario) chose our group as one of the two(Collie Rescue Network is the other r/q group) to benefit from their Christmas Photo's Fundraiser!
Photo's $15 Each OR 2 for $20
Date: Sunday December 7th, 2014
Time: 11 AM – 4 PM
***This is not a community education event yet, we shall be heading on our to just hang and bring some of the BHRR dawgs to thank people!

Xmas Photo Campaign 2014 brochure final

TOMORROW!
BHRR's Stafford will be ready on his red carpet with roses in paw to hand out to his first 24 smoochers! I even heard that he may wear a bow tie!
BHRR's Maverick and BHRR's Ichabod Crane are also coming.

pet valu poster - stafford (Medium)

BHRR's 3rd ANNUAL unique 'GIVE IT UP 4 AUTUMN' Fundraiser shall benefit BHRR's Stafford!

WHAT will you 'give up' for 14 days to help BHRR's Stafford?'
Please do EMAIL us with what you are 'giving up' to participate! Some are giving up chips, wine, coffee, another is giving up chocolate, AND, one person is going to even put in their jar, donations for cravings that they have for the chocolate they are giving up. Feel free to be creative! 🙂

UPDATE: We have 21 participants so far!
Starts November 4th! Please consider 'giving something up' for a 14 day period and, then donating the funds saved to BHRR's Stafford's bills!

YOU CAN ALSO MAKE BI-WEEKLY AUTOMATIC DONATIONS OR EVEN MONTHLY DONATIONS HERE (You do not need a PayPal account either)

A file is set up at Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of ‘Birch Haven Rescue’ for ‘Stafford’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services C/O Gwendilin Boers 2425 Totem Ranch Road West RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal to gwen@birchhaven.org (please use the ‘gift’ option OR the ‘friends and family’ option) OR we shall have to pay service charge fees

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Please consider going to the Helping Ottawa Fur Kids Facebook Page and, 'liking' our photo and, then putting in the comment section 'this amazing rescue gets my vote!' Contest ENDS Wednesday October 22nd at NOON and, each of the 6 rescues participating will receive a monetary donation, based upon where they rank upon the close of the contest. THANKS in advance for your consideration!

NOTE: 

From Monday October 20th to Monday November 3rd, 2014 inclusive, BHRR will not be open for adoptions or the intake of adoption applications.

We do not adopt out around the Halloween season and many others Rescues, shelters, pounds etc. have also begun to follow a similar protocol.

We do not believe it is in the best interest of the animals in our program, especially for dark coloured dogs.

During this time, BHRR is available 24/7 as always for requests for assistance of animals in need.

BHRR shall be attending our THIRD of ONLY four community education & public awareness events for this year, on October 4th & October 5th! The last community education/public awareness event that we attended was in May!
Pet Valu Stittsville so very kindly has invited us back in 2014 to be at their locale on October 4th & October 5th for their 'THANKS FOR GIVING' Event and, shall help us host some great activities!
AND, we will have BHRR doggies in attendance! Please visit the below link to find out which amazing BHRR doggies are coming which day!
From October 1st – October 16th, Pet Valu Stittsville will be selling 'Paper Pumpkins' for a donation and, your name and/or that of your pet(s), will be proudly displayed on said pumpkin put up at Pet Valu! Pet Valu will also be collecting material donations for BHRR during this time – we are in need of xpens(36" & 48"), Pinesol, Paper Towels, Lysol Wipes, Costco Dog Beds and, bath mats!
BHRR's EVENT PAGE For The 'THANKS FOR GIVING' WEEKEND AT PET VALU STITTSVILLE!
BHRR is still seeking 1 BHRR approved Volunteers to hang with us and zee big dawgs on the Saturday and one to hang with us on the Sunday! Please do email contactbhrr@gmail.com
Thank you's must be extended from my heart to Bre and her fabu staff at Pet Valu Stittsville, to Melissa of Groomingdale's who is donated all nail trims and grinds(Friday/Saturday/Sunday) to BHRR AND, also to Ashley of AMB Photography!
AND, last but never least, thank you again to BHRR BOD member Barry for working with me on this great poster!

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HERE is our poster for our NEXT Microchip Clinic! PV Innes & Belcourt, Orleans contacted us months ago to see if we would host one of our established Microchip Clinics at their locale. Honored again to be able to have the opportunity to chip more dogs & cats to help ensure they have a better chance of finding their way home if they are lost or stolen. SO important to microchip!

PV Innes & Belcourt, Orleans, Microchip & Nail Trim happening on Sunday September 21st, 2014!
*NO appointments Necessary
**Cats & Dogs – as long as they can comfortably be held
*RAIN OR SHINE – We are indoors that day!

BHRR PV Sept 21 Lg

HAPPENING TODAY! Sunday July 13th!!! DO not forget mark your calendars!!! 🙂 RAIN OR SHINE!!!

BHRR ONLY hosts 4 planned Fundraisers a year. This is our 2nd one of 2014.
We know and accept that for the first time ever, that we shall be seeing some showers in 2014. BOO! 🙁
AND, we are prepared for the weather to make your day a blast! 🙂

AND Microchips, Nails per our protocol plus the Silent Auction & BOW WOW Butchers shall be inside the Hospital.
We have 8 tents with a spare on hand to keep everyone dry for ALL the outside activities! 🙂

Microchips for cats/dogs & Nails for cats, dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits etc! 🙂

Rogers Community Cruiser shall be in attendance 9:30 – 11:30 AM with complimentary coffee/timbits

Dr. Amy Jewiss shall be present from 10 AM – 2 PM to discuss acupuncture and other services she now offers at Kanata Animal Hospital

Daryl of BOW WOW Butchers WILL also be in attendance!

Facebook 'PRE-EVENT' Mini Auction – 7 For 7! – AUCTION ENDED JULY 12th AT 12 NOON EST!

FaceBook Online Auction Album can be found HERE
There are 7 items(in honor of this being our 7th YEAR hosting this one of a kind Fundraiser) AND, shall be hosted for 7 days, that shall be available for bidding as of Saturday July 5th!
*The BHRR Auction will begin at 6:00 AM EST on Saturday July 5th, 2014. Unfortunately, bids submitted prior to this time cannot be considered.
*The BHRR Auction will end at NOON(12) PM EST on Saturday July 12th, 2014.
*All bid prices are in Canadian funds.
*Bids must be done in $2.00 or Greater increments.
*S&H is available on all but one Item – Item #3
Any questions, please do email gwen@birchhaven.org or call (613) 725-4279

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BHRR's Hailey had her special picnic date on Saturday May 31st! Here are two photo's that I took of her at PV Stittsville, for after her date, I took her over there for a visit! Big hit! BIG! 🙂 She is still waiting ever patiently for her right matched forever loving home to find her. So, are we!

Here is what the home had to say about her:
"She has wowed everyone she has met today. Just got back from another walk and she is snoozing away again :D"

photo 2 photo 1May 31st, 2014

GENTLE REMINDER!

We are at PV Hazeldean – 457 Hazeldean Road on Saturday May 3rd from 10 AM – 3 PM!

This is s ONLY our second Community Education & Public Awareness Event for 2014 and, we are ONLY doing a total of 4!

MORE Details HERE!

In attendance representing BHRR shall be:

BHRR's Ethel
BHRR's Groves
& I will be bringing my own GD Matrix – I am neutering him on Friday and, so, he is going to be on Gwennie watch!

UPDATE: Below is the lovely board that Bre of PV Stittsville has put together in support of PAWS for BHRR!
Total of PAWS/Event Sales/Donations as of April 30th, 2014 – THANK YOU to all of the supporters: $5,140
*The goal that PV Stittsville has set for the month that includes the April 12/13 activity weekend: $5,000

We shall be bringing: Saturday April 12th, – BHRR's Flint,  BHRR's Noelle and BHRR's Leroy
We shall be bringing: Sunday April 13th – BHRR's Torque, Mr. Bubbles and BHRR's Treasure

AND, the councilor shall be at PV Stittsville for around 11 AM – 12:30 PM along with the paper!

AND, we will be doing doggy tattoos for a $5 donation!
**Blow pens and stencils and non toxic materials to be used

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ON Saturday April 12th – BHRR will be at their Store from 10 AM – 3 PM with BHRR Dogs TBD!
ON Sunday April 13th – BHRR will be at their Store from 11 AM – 4 PM with BHRR Dogs TBD!

MARK your calendars! HERE is the poster for PV Stittsville's annual PAWS Event! BHRR was so incredibly touched to have been chosen again in 2014 to be the recipients of this event! 🙂 If anyone wishes to have a copy of this poster to help crosspost and share this event, PLEASE EMAIL

We would be so grateful for all the assistance in getting the word out!

For the whole month of April, PV Stittsville(1250 Stittsville Main), for your kind and giving donation, will have 'PAWS' that your name OR your pet(s) name will be written on and put up in their store in BIG appreciation. Funds from this Event will be used to help pay for BHRR's Purse Puppy, Coach who has been diagnosed at this time with at minimum, a congenital heart condition AND BHRR's Porridge, diagnosed with a nasal tumor.

BHRR shall only be making a maximum of 6 Public Awareness & Community Education appearances in 2014 and this is our first! 🙂 We are booked for four to date, and, one more is in the works! COME on out, visit with us, some of the BIG DAWGS of BHRR and, have some fun! 🙂

BHRR shall be at PV Stittsville on Saturday April 12th(10-3 PM) & Sunday April 13(11-4)!

FOR more details of this MUST ATTEND Event, please visit HERE!

Thanks to BHRR BOD member Barry once again, for hammering out with me this incredible poster! So talented!!! AND, thank you being publicly extended to our much loved extended fam at PV Stittsville for inviting us back again in 2014!!! 🙂

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HERE is the poster for our 3rd ANNUAL BHRR 'Special 1-on-1-Date' With A BHRR Dog Online Auction –
ENDS Thursday April 24th @ 9 PM EST! Details HERE!

  • The BHRR Auction will begin at 6:00 AM EST on Saturday April 12th, 2014.
    Unfortunately, bids submitted prior to this time cannot be considered.
  • The BHRR Auction will end at 9:00 PM EST on Thursday April 24th, 2014.
    The highest bid on an item will be determined based on the time of the email sent as recorded by the time marked by our ISP

Winners to be located in the Ottawa, Kanata, Gatineau, Orleans, Kemptville, Prescott, Brockville, Kingston areas ONLY

THANK you BHRR BOD member Barry AGAIN for this awesome poster!!! So talented!

If anyone would like to help us crosspost this event and share this poster, please EMAIL!

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I wanted to post a photo of BHRR’s Hailey from late last fall that I LOVE! She is doing well. She is now 6.5 years young and, fantastically affectionate with a glossy black coat that is admired by many! She still receives her regular cartrophen injections like a trooper and, loves holding down our kingsize bed!

The Vets have marveled that she has managed to keep that leg to date and, some days are a bit ‘off’ for her yet, overall, WOW! WOW!

She is what I call a very stately lady and, as with all the BBBBB’s here, we continue to be patient that her right matched home will see her for ‘who’ she is and, not some common black colour or a Dane that has battled some leg problems.

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BHRR’s Hailey – Late Fall 2013

GENTLE REMINDER & UPDATEThis event will NOW also be used to also help BHRR’s Porridge – Rushed into KAH March 19th for when I returned from being out of the country, he was not well. He had dropped 3 KGs(6.6 pounds) – he is down to 74 KGs, had a nasal discharge, flared nostrils, no temp yet, belly breathing and could not breathe with his mouth closed, had not drank anything in over 24 hours, minimal eating, lethargic, swollen lymph nodes and, could not rest on his side(his fav resting spot).

PORRIDGE VET RESULTS TO DATE: Full exam done, lungs sounded ok, did a full blood work up including a heart blood test(awaiting results, we could not use Dormitor(if he did have a heart condition, this would be not in his best interest) to sedate for x-rays and the Torb barely took his anxiety edge off(we were not able to do his nails as he needs the Dorm also to sedate him) and, we could only get the right lat for x-rays yet, the heart on that side look almost completely normal. There was no noticeable bulge or significant enlargement yet, we had to take four shots to get his full chest and lungs just of the one side and the left side could not be completed at this time. We took biopsies of his lymph nodes, heart rate was elevated. The staff there noted how poor his energy level was from his norm ‘must maim with my happy tail and enthusiasm hyper harle happy boy ‘tude’ and while, he did eat some wet canned food, he had a hard time trying to eat anything dry and could only take one dry piece of T/D that was offered to him. The Vet has prescribed Doxy for him 4 tabs BID of the 100 mg IN case it may be infection related yet, he would not be presented ‘classically’ if that were the case. Yet, we are being proactive from all angles.

He went down hill so fast while I was away and, I thank all for monitoring him and I have trusted and do trust that those that were here, did keep his best interest at heart and, did not see fit to bring him in. I was completely ok for hi to go in for peace of mind and, I had been told that he was eating and drinking well and energy level was ok, no nasal discharge and lungs were clear(one person here is a nurse). In discussing him in more depth tonight with some of the wonderful souls that were here, it was noted that a weight loss had been seen, that drinking levels had gone down and energy level had changed. He was apparently fine and completely normal up to late last week and, I arrived home on Tuesday early afternoon. Whatever he has, it is aggressive….. 🙁

AND, in the 24+ hours that I have been home, his condition from there worsened further and, I jumped in bringing him in ASAP. Even called KAH to change his appointment to an earlier time slot.

Possible diagnosis at this time range from early heart to early lymphoma to early nasal tumor. Good case scenario, an infection of some sort.

AND, here is the PV Stittsville, Nail Trim Event Poster! $15 for grinds/$10 for Trims on Saturday March 22nd from 10 am – 5 pm, and, all money shall benefit BHRR’s Coach, our ‘heart’ boy!

Purse Puppy Coach shall be coming with me after my work shift on March 22nd,  – around 2:30 PM to visit and thank all those that will be there AND, he will be doing ‘KUDDLES 4 KASH’ to also help raise some money for his bills. AND, for those that have had the pleasure of hugging this boy, he is DELIGHTFUL! I may also bring BHRR’s Angel Noelle or perhaps BHRR’s Torque! 🙂

On Tuesday March 4th, BHRR’s Purse Puppy’s Coach weight was 14.9 KGs(37.78 pounds)! Since his arrival into Rescue, he has put on 34.28 pounds! 🙂 In just 14 weeks! 🙂

I have a huge blog post to make from this Vet visit and then coming back the next day for emergency x-rays and an ECG (the results were suppose to be back within 24 hours….) and, from there, the next steps for him. I have the report from the one Vet to post and, I have passed along all information and details to PVAR who have the other two puppies and who adopted the mom. At the minimum, it is believed that he has a congenital condition. 🙁 AND, the chances that HE is the only one in that large litter to have this condition is slim to none.

As I am heading offline for the next week+, blog updates will be to a minimum to none – SORRY! 🙁 I am going out of the country and later this year, also plan on going back out of the country as I have been invited to Costa Rica and Nicarauga to assist/train/mentor in a spay/neuter clinic and, to work with the strays etc. over there.  So, I will post as I can and, thanks to all that follow the blogs!!! 🙂

Now, we just have to have those right matched forever loving homes find all of these great BHRR doggies that are AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION! 🙂

Nailtrim (Medium)

Please consider heading to PV Stittsville to participate in our FIRST EVER(Annual or Bi-Annual – not decided as of yet) $5(Five) 4 Food Fundraiser – February 1st to February 28th inclusive!
$1,518.00 DONATED To Date as of February 22nd, 2014!

I want to thank PV Stittsville immensely for being so open and supportive for BHRR to have our unique and creative Fundraiser at their lovely store! All money donated is being used to buy Dog Food from their store. As the generous, kind and extremely thoughtful donations are coming in, the incredible staff at PV Stittsville are using the funds to buy dog food as we are in our food crisis now. Sean has already gone in to pick up what food has been bought to date and, I will be in on Saturday to pick up the next bags that thanks to the community's big hearts, more is continuing to be able to be purchased.

We are hoping that this Fundraiser shall be successful! We are so happy to be showing our own hearts in turn to the store that is making this all possible and to buy all the food we can with the monies that come in. THANK YOU to the village that is surrounding BHRR and, PV Stittsville!!

AND, the 2nd annual PV Stittsville Secret Admirer Sweetheart Knuckle Bones Event is in full swing! 11 have already been purchased to donate to the animals(each BHRR dog has a photo attached to one bone) of BHRR! TY! TY! Be sure to visit PV Stittsville, while BHRR DOGGIES LAST! 🙂
**As OF FEBRUARY 15th, 2014, ALL BHRR DOGGIES HAVE A Secret Admirer Sweetheart Knuckle Bone!**

AND thank you to BHRR BOD member Barry Cole for working with me again on this fabu poster!

feb five for food-3b

*WE ARE STILL IN A FOOD CRISIS!!! WE ONLY HAVE 5 DAYS LEFT 🙁 🙁
OUR FIRST OF 2014* FOOD = LIFE for the animals of BHRR!
PLEASE consider our cause and donate a bag or funds for food! We thank you from our hearts for any consideration!
PLEASE EMAIL IF YOU CAN HELP US with our dog food fund/needs!

UPDATE:

LESS than 6 hours to get your chance to bid/win on our first ever ‘Breaking Bills Bake’ Online Auction!
All items will be baked fresh! ENDS tonight(Thursday January 23rd @ 9 PM EST)

We have 32 amazing items up for grabs and this, shall be a yearly Fundraiser for BHRR moving forward!

BAKE SALE ONLINE Auction to assist with BHRR’s Angel Noelle’s(the beaten/abused puppy that was also picked up and thrown and had her one leg/elbow broken and was never treated that required a leg amputation) Vet Bills has begun!
Please consider participating and crossposting. THANK YOU!

She also has a YouCaring Fundraiser page!
http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/-caring-an-arm-a-leg-for-christmas-puppy/124645

BHRR’s Angel Noelle’s ‘BREAKING BILLS BAKE’ Online Auction Fundraiser
*Items do not need to be baked until the Online Auction is over. 🙂
ONLINE AUCTION: STARTS January 18th, 2014(7 AM EST) & ENDS January 23rd, 2014(9 PM EST) – We have 32 items to date!

Thank you to EACH person who has stepped up to help us with sharing this request for donations for this fundraiser, offering to make an item, sending those very precious notes of support and kindness AND, in believing in this very special ‘angel’! As always, thank you! Thank you! THANK YOU! What a brutal start to 2014, we have had at BHRR. 🙁 With being in a food crisis, BHRR’s Angel Noelle’s amputation and, BHRR’s Blooms’ gas bloat. 🙁

All monies raised in this Online Auction shall go towards paying for BHRR’s Angel Noelle’s Bills.

This sweet Rottiex puppy used to live in a crackhouse. She lived a life of constant abuse and, at 12 weeks of age, she was abused, picked up and thrown. Her leg/elbow was broken and left untreated for another 12 weeks. She received no medical treatment during this time as my leg worked to try and heal on its own. I was terrifed and in extreme pain.

On Christmas Eve, an ‘angel’ contacted Gwen and, asked if Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabiltition(BHRR) could assist. BHRR immediately stepped up and another ‘angel’ came to her rescue and took her from this very bad place as ‘because I whimpered in pain’, the Owners wanted me gone ASAP and would have killed me if I had stayed with them.

On Monday January 13th, 2014, her leg was amputated and her bills will be close to $5,000 once all of her rehab is finished. She still has to have post-off follow-ups/exams, vaccines, physiotherapy etc.

 

 

Here is a copy of a post that I made on our Birch Haven Facebook Page. For those that are inquiring as to ‘where’ the page went.

As we have many followers that are not on facebook, this is a post that can be ignored. 🙂 For those that do follow us on facebook and, missed this post, here is a copy….

This is the final post as part of the ‘end of year statement’ for the BHRR BOD….that absolute privilege has fallen upon my typing fingers…

So much to say, a Gwennie Novel that would be a Gwennie chapter to truly capture it all!!

It has been an incredible year for BHRR, 13 WOW adoptions, so many faces put to names of lovely folks near and far, friendships plus relationships that have strengthened further and increased those links on that BHRR CHAIN OF SUCCESS, new kind and beautiful faces that have chosen our cause to support and believe in, the miracles of so many that were considered by several to be ‘lost causes’, r/q rescues working side by side making an much bigger positive difference to animals out there in need, the laughs, the smiles, the fun(Yes, r/q rescue can be fun!), the public education and community education events, play dates and play visits, the fundraisers(the crossposting!) the walks/hikes, the animals plus people that have touched us to the core and made our hearts just burst in warmth and happiness, the donations of lifesaving food and, other material items, the financial hand to help pay for much needed bills and more dog food, the driving and the more driving and the more driving, and yes, the hugs!
We thank each you that has been there and we look forward to what we hope promises to be an even better year for all ahead. We are NOTHING without you…..AND, to my BHRR BOD, thank you!

It has been such a hard year in others ways, and we take those important life lessons learned and will work that much more diligently in making better decisions/choices in 2014 and onward….we are focused in letting go of the things that we cannot change and that are unhealthy in the name of r/q rescuing.
We endeavour to practise what we preach, research, stay updated and keep walking the talk!
We have cried and still do cry over those that shall no longer be with us – human and animal and, candles are lit in the most honourable plus respectful silence of those that we can no longer physically touch and talk to and embrace……We miss you and, we are better in the having been touched by you…..

We thank all those that have assisted us in not changing BHRR yet, in continuing to help make it a better version of itself! I stand up and applaud each of you and then, I kneel down in the most humblest of thanks in turn, for I appreciate each and every gesture from a dollar to an encouraging word to helping to do nails or helping me to keep making dogs more well balanced and set-up for success! You may not think you have done much, yet, you have…especially on those dark trench days….

2014 MARKS year #18 for our small r/q Rescue and, that moves me into an announcement that I have been slowly sharing with people over the past few months….

The BHRR BOD has been discussing this for close to a 1 year now….

As of 11:59 PM on Wednesday January 1st, 2014; we shall be unpublishing our page….and, deactivating the BHRR BOD account.

This was not an easy step to take by any means for we understand how key networking and social media is….this page has brought us soooooooooooo much goodness and kindness and, we go into this knowing that we shall find ourselves most likely struggling even more financially and with food needs than we ever have had to date…..13 dogs were adopted in 2013, 17 in 2012 and this page is to be credited with these success stories…..

We are a small group and like many groups, we are Volunteers and lead busy lives outside of r/q rescue and, in frequent discussions with members of the BHRR BOD, the bandwidth is just not there right now for me to keep up the pace of this page plus what so many have originally been attracted plus loved about BHRR, the detailed blogs…that is very much a ‘signature’ BHRR arena and, it has had to take a backseat more often than I would have liked in 2013.

2014, is also year of much excitement(and some stress!) in my own professional and personal life – I will be defending in 2014 in re: to my PhD that I have worked pt on for too many years now…, I am furthering my training to do more work internationally with strays, street dogs and spay/neuter clinics and teaching and being mentored….I have been invited to Costa Rica and Nicaragua and, I will also begin to shadow at other Hospitals to increase my own skill set and education with qualifications plus experience. AND, I also look forward to my time at the ES when I can get there. As a result, I shall also be deleting/deactivating my personal account. Barry, Catalina and Mary will remain our eyes and ears out there in fb land.

My priority has always been to the animals under our authority and being hands on and keeping our success rates unparalled out there….that, shall not change.

It is my sincerest of wishes that by this time next year, we can publish this page again….it has become such a staple to my day and, I look forward to coming back to post of daily tips and questions and quotes and all things BHRR plus beyond to help other groups also network their own events/animals and throw our support into their corner!

I have sincerely enjoyed sharing the ups and the downs as part of our commitment to full disclosure and that, we are only perfect in our imperfections as humans….

So, it is will deepest regret that this shall be my last post on this page for some time……..

The BHRR BOD is still trying to figure out how best put forth our requests for assistance and right now, we shall go back to using the website for postings…so, please do visit uswww.birchhaven.org for YOU are the real hearts and souls of BHRR, along with the animals…..

May love, happiness and health find their way and stay with you and yours in 2014….that is my wish for you!

Raising my glass to all of you in a toast of my heart to you!

FROM myself, words truly do fail me with how beautiful these cards are plus the stamps AND Anna’s heart…..Thank you! THANK YOU!

From Anna G-h:

“We are delighted to announce that we have note-cards and matching stamps (domestic permanent) available with all funds donated to Birch Haven to assist in vetting and food costs. Each are 4 for $5. Please let me(Anna) know if you would like to order any. We can mail free of charge once we have received payment for your order. These are blank inside so are perfect for many occasions.”

Anna can be contacted at: anna.goofy@rogers.com OR email HERE.

Payment can be made via PayPal ‘GIFT’ or via email transfer.

Simply stunning! The person in the photo for those that are not aware is Anna’s husband, Peter and the two lovely Danes are Kaitlyn and Kassie. 🙂

photoposteranna

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

This is not a community education or public awareness event YET, I plan on showing up with some of the BHRR doggies to hang and visit AND thank ALL that show up!

NOTE: THERE shall also be $10 NAIL Trims with all proceeds coming to BHRR!

santa paws (Medium)

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 so many years.

Our XMAS Shutdown period for this year is from Saturday December 14th, 2013 to Tuesday January 7th 2013 inclusive.

During this time, BHRR is available 24/7 as always for requests for assistance of animals in need.

Thank you for your continued understanding – The BHRR Team

Our 6th ANNUAL 'JUST IN TIME FOR XMAS' Online Auction HAS started! 🙂 We NOW have 87 items posted – LINK BELOW – and more to come daily! This is not a facebook auction. As we have supporters not on fb, we use a wp plug-in app on our home website.

YOU have to go visit daily to see just what is there! 🙂 THANKS to all that have donated so kindly, generously and the animals thank you too! 🙂

The BHRR Auction began at 7:00 AM EST on Saturday November 23rd, 2013.

The BHRR Auction will end at 9:00 PM EST on Thursday December 5th, 2013

http://www.birchhaven.org/fundraising-2008/online-auction-2012

AND, here is the testimonial that was publicly posted by the home that had the special picnic date with BHRR's Hailey on Sunday! Posted here with permission! Thank you to the home for giving BHRR's Hailey a wonderful experience to continue to keep her on that path of being so well rounded and balanced! 🙂

The Bird's Nest was privileged to enjoy a wonderful date on Sunday with BHRR's Hailey!! This was a special day for us as we had a date with Hailey last year and it was just lovely to celebrate how far both Adele and Hailey have come in that time. Hailey had a grand time with the super kong. She had it tossing and tumbling all over the living room and several times just picked it up and took it over to the bed! I have to say, I used to think it was a large item, until I saw Hailey carry it around as it if were a milkbone!
Hailey is a stellar lady and I am most baffled as to how this charming, affectionate, vivacious and very well mannered girl has not yet found her home. She walked beautifully on leash, sat and shook a paw for all her treats, graciously accepted that the amazing picnic lunch was not going to be shared her way (don't worry, we had some beef lung waiting!) was quite happy to amuse herself as to settle in for a nap, was very respectful of Adele and in all other ways showed all the fine characteristics that are the hallmark of a BHRR dog. We are talking one top notch puppy dog!
The Nest wishes Hailey all the very best in finding her right matched forever home in the blink of an eye, though it was clear for all to see when she wiggled, wagged and talked herself silly at the sight of Gwen at pick up time that she is hail, hearty, happy and wanting for nothing at BHRR until that day comes!  🙂
We luvs you Hailey!!

TODAY's Special Picnic Date is FOR BHRR's Hailey
IN one of my new picnic baskets!
We have honey maple smoked ham on homemade baquette/rolls, two types of crackers, cheese right from the cheese factory, potato salad,
apples, oranges, granola bars, banana bread, carrots, water, nuts, yogurt, a special homemade chocolate & caramel brownie dessert topped with walnuts and some decorative candy canes AND a few extra surprises!
BHRR's Hailey and I are on our way! 🙂

photoIMG_5458 (Medium)
*Photo of BHRR's Hailey courtesy of M Bird – November 3rd, 2013

From Friday October 18th to Sunday November 3rd, 2013 inclusive, BHRR will not be open for adoptions or the intake of adoption applications.

We do not adopt out around the Halloween season and many others Rescues, shelters, pounds etc. have also begun to follow a similar protocol.

We do not believe it is in the best interest of the animals in our program, especially for dark coloured dogs.

During this time, BHRR is available 24/7 as always for requests for assistance of animals in need.

A short time ago, I received an email from the most talented and I want to say also, very beautiful and special Liz Bradley of The Ottawa Dog Blog.

http://ottawadogblog.ca/2013/08/we-won-the-top-most-influential-dog-blog-online/

As many are aware, there was a voting contest recently for the Most Influential Dog Blog online and the competition was quite tough AND, thanks to such an incredible surrounding community The Ottawa Dog Blog WON! By taking 60% of the votes!

HUGE Congratulations Liz & Jane!!! Extremely well deserved! Your blog is quite important and valued deeply by so many and you make a BIG difference daily with all your efforts! I have loved watching your amazing 'baby' grow plus develop!

AND, what so humbly surprised me(AND, made me grab yet, another tissue…this time with a welling up of good tears!), was that Liz/Jane was awarded a lifesaving generous gift of $500 donation to the charity of her choice AND they chose BHRR!! As they have posted about, there are SO many great r/q Rescues deserving and in need and, I am touched, humbled and feel privileged to have our small rescue chosen to be the recipient of such an incredible gesture……Just honoured! Immensely!

There really needs to be more words to express THANK YOU! I am MORE thank thankful! I am genuinely appreciative plus grateful and filled with intense gratitude…….

THE BELOW IS FROM LIZ/JANE:

"It was a difficult decision as to the charity who we would pick to receive the donation as all of the Ottawa charities work so hard.

We decided on Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation to receive the $500 donation! BHRR is an amazing rescue who is in need of money to feed the large and giant breeds they rescue – this money will go a long way towards food and vet bills for them!

Thank you again to all who voted. I am so very proud to live in this great city surrounded by fellow dog lovers.

With love and belly rubs,
Liz (and Jane)"

**Could I please ask our fans/supporters/family/friends to take a moment and go over and CONGRATULATE Liz/Jane immensely and tell them HOW uber awesome they are with what they do daily!!!**

AND, here is what I wrote on their lovely Blog post!

HUGE Congratulations Liz & Jane!!! Extremely well deserved! Your blog is quite important and valued deeply by so many and you make a BIG difference daily with all your efforts! I have loved watching your amazing ‘baby’ grow plus develop!

As Liz/Jane have posted, there are SO many great r/q Rescues deserving and in need and, I am touched, humbled and feel immensely privileged to have had our small rescue of Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services chosen to be the recipient of such an incredible gesture……Just honoured! Immensely!

I also wish to publicly thank Camp Cookstown from my heart, for having such a great contest, for helping to get the word out regarding so many fantastic online blogs and for supporting the work done in animal rescue with this very generous and lifesaving gift of $500.

There really needs to be more words to express THANK YOU! I am MORE thank thankful! I am genuinely appreciative plus humbled and filled with intense gratitude…….

 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: DIRTY DAWG Wash for BHRR coming up FAST!
Thank you sooooooooooo much to Ginnette & CJ for having us back again this year!!!
I absolutely LOVE this event! LOVE LOVE LOVE!
Saturday July 27th
Time: 10 AM – 3 PM
Min. $10 Donation
*Microchips $40 includes registration, merchandise AND Nail Trims too!
*Thanks to BHRR BOD member Barry for working with me on this poster!

dirty dog**

COMING UP ON Sunday July 14th, 2013! Our 6th ANNUAL KAH/BHRR Microchip/Nail Trim & BBQ Fundraiser!
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

In 2012, we did 56 MICROCHIPS(ALL by qualified Veterinary professionals) & 94 nail trims!

We shall have our silent auction table again, human plus doggie baked table, draws, facepainting, caricatures AND so much more!

NO APPOINTMENTS necessary! For more information, please visit HERE:

OR follow all the exciting updates on our BHRR/KAH Facebook EVENT PAGE!

STILL LOOKING FOR THE FOLLOWING:

Thank you in advance for any consideration!!

STILL ISO:

1) More volunteers to put up posters in their local community including training facilities
2) People open to emailing and promoting this event poster at their work and with friends, family and neighbours. I can email the poster to all willing to assist. 🙂
3) Donations of pop, juice, bottled water & hotdogs/buns & hamburger/buns
4) NEED MORE DRAW PRIZES! Please email contactbhrr@gmail.com
5) ICE! ICE! ICE!
6) NEED MORE Silent Auction Items
7) Gift cards – please email contactbhrr@gmail.com
8) We need people to assist us with cross-posting this event and getting the word out! We have some huge Vet bills right now and more in the pipe.

PLEASE EMAIL if you can assist with any of the above!

***This event is such a great time!***

bhrreventlowressmall
THANK you again to BHRR's Cosette's fabu mom for working with members of the BHRR BOD on this poster!

Katoby Distribution is having their FIRST even Campaign For Rescue Voting Contest!

This contest was created via nominations and on Monday July 1st, BHRR received an email regarding this voting contest and what a surprise PLUS honour to note that we were one of the organizations chosen to participate!

They have 4 prize packs totaling over $4000 in valuable food and products to give to the rescue groups you think deserve it! Top 3 dog rescues and the top cat rescue will each win a prize pack (as determined by votes). One lucky voter will also receive a price pack worth over $250!

Voting ends July 15 at noon – one vote per day per person!

I am moving BHRR's Hailey back to 'AVAILABLE CANINES' and is NOW READY FOR ADOPTION!

Her vaccines are utd again, her hwt was negative and her recent Vet visit was a thumbs up!

Per her previous blog post, she will not go to a home with tons of flights of stairs, she will go to a home that shall not run or jog with her, yet, she loves to hike and run on her own(AND does not let her overdue it yet at the same time DOES not put her into a glass bubble!). That right matched home will understand that she has arthritis and that as she ages, she shall develop more.

She can go to a home with another right matched fit dog or be the only dog. She can go to a home that works ft, pt, from home, is semi-retired, retired FOR she is another very versatile dog!

She is 100% trustworthy in the home and I do believe that her right matched home is out there!

BHRR's Hailey weighed…*coughs delicately* a plump 53.8 Kgs(118.30 pounds) tonight….I knew that she had put on a few and back to taking my own advise….OFF with those extra pounds…YIKES! A pet peeve of mine is dogs that should not be overweight being made that way due to owners and yup, it happens at BHRR too! AND, off with 5 pounds she shall have!

YET, the great news for her is that we have done an excellent job of working with her leg and getting her personality back to being 'her' and I do think the time has come that we can place her back up for adoption!

Of course, she could not be adopted to a home with many stairs and that home has to understand that this lovely girl needs regular cartrophen injections, a monitored exercise lifestyle, excellent nutrition and that there could well still be a time that her leg could need to be removed. The older she ages though, the less that possibility is there and yet, though, she has continued increased arthritis, she has also greatly stabilized with the holistic and conventional medicine we have been doing with her!

She could well still end up spending the rest of her, what I sincerely hope is great many years of quality filled life, with us her BHRR/BOERS Clan family, yet, I believe that we can at least see if that right matched personality fit home is out there and as we believe in full disclosure, provide all medical records, her detailed blog, x-rays etc. their way, by placing her back up for adoption.

I honestly do believe that while she still does need us in some small ways, she really does not 'need' us any longer in many more bigger ways and that right home meant for her can continue with all that we have done to date with her proactive and preventative Vet care. So, at some point soon, she shall make her very special and huge announcement!

THIS is my latest GOOD WITH CATS UPDATE post!

This lovely Canine has proven to be 'good' with cats. YET, as always, careful integration is an VERY important key and the personalities also!

I also want to stress that THE Hobbits of BHRR's Baggins & BHRR's Bilbo are only mere puppies right now….their 'cat' goodness could well change as they mature.

We cat test our dogs as we can. Sean is allergic to cats and most of our own dogs are scared of cats and yet, doing thorough evaluations plus assessments and getting to know the BHRR dogs thoroughly, my knowledge of them and experience with them and gut/instinct have gone a long way in helping to determine if the dogs may or may not be good. Others do remain an 'unknown'.

BHRR's Hailey is headed to KAH tomorrow for her annual and a recheck of her own leg. It is a miracle that she has managed to keep that leg to date and we continue to fight that good fight with/for her!

Barking Bone Designs – Custom Pet Art has been so generous and kind and will donate up to February 17th, 2013$5.00 of the sales of every personalized accessory, key chain or necklace!

PLEASE make sure that you mention Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) when you order!

Colours and sayings can be changed easily!

S&H is ONLY $2 in Canada for one item and $3 for two!

BHRR has some new urgent animal medical cases in the pipe….the funds raised will deeply assist!

EMAIL BarkingBone@hotmail.com for more information and to have Sarah answer any questions you may have!!!

THANK YOU Sarah!!!!

PLEASE CROSSPOST! 🙂

Anna Gray-Henschel is going to be selling her famous homemade 'TREATS' that includes BHRR's Journey Heart Biscuits to help raise funds for Genesis Dog Rescue and also for BHRR. Her Danelets shall have their own delightful selection and there shall also be a variety named after BHRR's Kyo.

Please visit her PAGE to see all the wonderful yummy details and to express your truest heartfelt thanks and appreciation to her in hosting this Fundraiser.

Purchase for your doggies, family and friends' doggies, for your favorite r/q Rescues etc. 🙂

From my own home and on behalf of all the doggies again in need of BHRR, THANK you Anna! I sound like a broken record yet, it is true! What a gem you are!

The Gift Certificates are good for up to one year from purchase!

DEADLINE is February 8th, 2013 to get in your orders so that they can be received by Valentine's Day! 🙂
 

UPDATE Wednesday December 19th, 2012:

THEY HAVE RESTARTED THE FOOD VOTING CONTEST from scratch AND it began Tuesday December 18th, 2012 @ NOON AND shall END Thursday December 20th @ NOON!

PLEASE CONSIDER VOTING! You do not need to enter your email address or register, just one click of a button! AND please consider sharing. WE are in FIRST place by only TEN VOTES!

Please CLICK HERE to VOTE:

THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

————————————————————————————————————————————

BHRR could use your DAILY Vote, yes, DAILY Vote up until Sunday December 16th before midnight to help us win some dog foodfor the BHRR animals.

PLEASE CLICK HERE to Vote!

As many know, BHRR goes through 120 pounds of dog food in ONE single day. YOUR DAILY vote for Birch Haven Rescue once a day until Sunday just before midnight, could help us win some food for the dogs. SO, please do consider voting and do remember to come back daily to vote!!!!

The incredible folks at La Maison Du Chien have kindly offered to donate $1100 worth of pet food to a deserving area rescue!

BHRR is currently in FIRST place by ONLY ONE VOTE…….AND as always, we would share with any other r/q groups in need……ALWAYS! We believe in working together to help as many animals as possible!

We do not have a regular food sponsor for donations of food and the cost of food per month can be over $4,000.

Thank you in advance for any consideration………

UPDATE Wednesday December 12th, 2012:

There seems to be a voting 'glitch' and some can and others cannot vote more than once YET, please do keep trying to vote DAILY and do share as BHRR could really really really use your assistance!

UPDATE: Friday December 14th, 2012:

You need to clear your cache/cookies on your iPhone(go to "Settings", then "Safari", then 'Clear Cookies/Cache' to be able to vote again daily AND you need to clear your cache on whatever browser you are using on your home or work computers to be able to vote again daily.

BHRR has slipped to SECOND place and this contest end Sunday just before Midnight! Please vote and share! 🙂

UPDATE Sunday December 16th, 2012:

UPDATE ON VOTING CONTEST:

As many are aware from the public blanket statement posts I was making, as soon as I understood what was able to really occur with the voting in the food contest, I contacted MDB. This was not resulting in a fair contest to all r/q Rescues involved.

We have been in conversation for the last few days re: this contest and per the positioning of BHRR, we will only wish to operate with continued integrity plus honesty and no food is worth any compromising of that.

Either we all are able to vote once a day, only ever once, or multiple times daily. What was happening was not equal or fair to all involved. BHRR and it was so important that MDB be made aware of what was happening.

I am aware that they did a reset a couple of days ago to try and have people being able to only vote once every 24 hours and some could and others still could not vote again.

We have continued to support MDB in any successful resolution they felt was necessary and per their public post today, they have decided to do a reset from scratch – starting over.

I thank EACH of our supporters and believers that have campaigned so hard to assist the animals of BHRR and in sharing! 🙂 No words can tell you how much this has meant to BHRR for we do go through 120 POUNDS of dog food PER DAY.

AND good luck to all participating for round two!

BHRR's 5th ANNUAL "JUST IN TIME FOR XMAS" Online Auction is ON NOW UNTIL Thursday December 6th @ 9:00 PM EST!

We currently have 122 very exciting items up for grabs! MORE being added throughout the last day of this auction! 🙂

All monies raised shall go to the care of animals in need of BHRR and also assist the two new Saint Bernards headed our way!

BHRR's Hailey's next recheck is December 10th. SHE is holding her own with the Cartrophen right now! Mostly all good days! YAY!

In preparation in having to do some emergency fundraising for BHRR's Autumn's ever growing mounting bills that shall include having several surgeries, we are going to be offering up  a small  BHRR's Autumn's EMERGENCY Online Auction

Auction details and how to bid can be found HERE – ITEMS can be added at any time – so, please check back!

Starts 6:00 AM EST on Monday October 29th, 2012
Ends 10:00 PM EST on Monday November 5th, 2012
 

NOTE: BHRR's Autumn's EMERGENCY ONLINE AUCTION does not replace our 5th ANNUAL 'JUST IN TIME FOR XMAS' ONLINE Auction to commence on Saturday November 24th, 2012!

BHRR’s Hailey is doing well. Now, that the cooler weather is upon us, she is having a bit harder of a time on that leg and the Cartrophen is not working as well. We will be re-visiting things shortly.

Anna has indicated that she shall take refill requests for BHRR's Journey's Heart Bisuits for the 'HELP HAILEY HEAL' FUND.

Anna's e-mail or you can call her at 613 993 2738 to order – Anna also has a Hypo recipe for those that have sensitive tummy doggies!

She is baking smokey bacon with cheddar heart shaped dog biscuits at $3/dz. Made with love, bought with love and every penny sent to BHRR with love to Hailey. She also has a hypo recipe for those with allergies!

THANKS to everyone for their consideration!
 

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $1,003.19 donated to date & Bills $2,936.08
Maggie
Anna & Peter
Credit transferred from BHRR's Journey Rehab Angels – $243.19
Judy – PayPal took $1.75 in fees
Suzanne
CJ Rescue Garage Sale – $247.50(50/50 split to help BHRR's Emma)
Alex & Karen
Nairn
Vivian
Eva & Robert
Jennifer
Shirley
Caren
Sandra
 

COME ON OUT TO SEE US THIS SATURDAY AUGUST 11th @ the Critter Jungle in Ottawa, Ontario!
 

RAIN OR SHINE! We shall be there! So, bring your dirty dawg and we shall wash plus towel dry for you!

We shall also have some items for sale to help raise much needed funds for the animals in need of BHRR.

AND it looks like the rain is going to be there BUT so shall we! 🙂 We are all going to be wet anyway! 😉

Thank you to Margaret for purchasing BHRR’s Journey’s Heart Biscuits for her ‘HELP HAILEY HEAL’ Fund.

We shall be re-visiting shortly with the Vet her current status and Cartrophen protocol. Her Vet was very supportive with BHRR’s Hailey going back to weekly if needed for her sq injections.

We have maintained every two weeks until see is re-examined/re-evaluated.

Thank you to all her fans and supporters for caring as mich about her as we do!!

I have been going round and round in my head re: BHRR's Hailey's age and so, went back into her records plus her blog and she was born October 22nd, 2007. She is actually 4 years of age and shall be 5 in October. 🙂

I apologize if any of her recent blogs refer to her as 3 and not 4.

 

We know that we are going to be unable to go to once a month or further for BHRR's Hailey. As we neared the two week mark for her next cartrophen, you could see that she was slipping backwards this time around.

We are back in two weeks for another recheck and we shall discuss if we should go back to weekly for her injections.

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $843.19 donated to date & Bills $2,936.08
Maggie
Anna & Peter
Credit transferred from BHRR's Journey Rehab Angels – $243.19
Judy – PayPal took $1.75 in fees
Suzanne
CJ Rescue Garage Sale – $247.50(50/50 split to help BHRR's Emma)
Alex & Karen
Nairn
Vivian
Eva & Robert
Jennifer
 

BHRR’s Hailey is doing very well still with the cartrophen injections and every two weeks seems to be working.

I do not think at this time that every month will be as effective yet; one of her Vets stated that if need be; we can go back to once a week for her.

It is so reassuring to have these options for her!

BHRR's Hailey came with me to the Vets on Saturday and weighed 50 Kgs(110 pounds).

Her recheck was great! She is still toe touching and limping some yet; her spirits are so much higher and she is happier and more like herself and back to being a bit pushy to some of the dogs and affectionate to humans! YAY!

I ordered more Cartrophen and we are going to try 1.5 ml bi-weekly and if that causes a deterioration; we shall go back up to once a week.

We continue to monitor for any heat and/or swelling that would indicate that she now has a soft tissue injury.

 

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $823.19 donated to date & Bills $2,936.08
Maggie
Anna & Peter
Credit transferred from BHRR's Journey Rehab Angels – $243.19
Judy – PayPal took $1.75 in fees
Suzanne
CJ Rescue Garage Sale – $247.50(50/50 split to help BHRR's Emma)
Alex & Karen
Nairn
Vivian
Eva & Robert

Our 5th Annual BHRR/KAH MIcrochip/Nail Trim & BBQ Fundraiser being held at Kanata Animal Hospital from 8 AM – 4 PM (NO appointments necessary) is coming up fast!

If you would like a copy of this stunning poster to crosspost via email or post up at work, your local training facility, petstore, etc., please EMAIL

This is BHRR's biggest Fundraiser of every year!

Thank you being extended to Shirley again for such a fabulous poster!!!! Thank you so much once more for working with me on this!! 🙂

Please 'click' on the poster for more details/information! 🙂

AND to stay updated on the latest developments, join our BHRR Facebook EVENT PAGE!

Keep BHRR's Hailey in your thoughts for tomorrow!

 

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $823.19 donated to date & Bills $2,793.41
Maggie
Anna & Peter
Credit transferred from BHRR's Journey Rehab Angels – $243.19
Judy – PayPal took $1.75 in fees
Suzanne
CJ Rescue Garage Sale – $247.50(50/50 split to help BHRR's Emma)
Alex & Karen
Nairn
Vivian
Eva & Robert

BHRR's Hailey has her recheck on Saturday! Everything crossed! YET, things are looking really bright for her! She will remain on the Cartrophen – about $175/month until we have to amputate. She had a FANTASTIC BHRR 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House and people were remarking on how much closer to being the dog that she was before her was hurt!!!! YAY! YAY!

Our team cheer is still – GO BHRR's Hailey GO!

 

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $798.19 donated to date & Bills $2,793.41
Maggie
Anna & Peter
Credit transferred from BHRR's Journey Rehab Angels – $243.19
Judy – PayPal took $1.75 in fees
Suzanne
CJ Rescue Garage Sale – $247.50(50/50 split to help BHRR's Emma)
Alex & Karen
Nairn
Vivian

We are seeing some more slight improvement – especially behavourally – with BHRR's Hailey! I gave her her third Cartrophen injection and she is still toe touching yet; is more like herself.

GO BHRR's HAILEY GO!

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $775.69 donated to date & Bills $2,793.41
Maggie
Anna & Peter
Credit transferred from BHRR's Journey Rehab Angels – $243.19
Judy – PayPal took $1.75 in fees
Suzanne
CJ Rescue Garage Sale – $247.50(50/50 split to help BHRR's Emma)
Alex & Karen
Nairn
 

I am going to stay very cautiously optimistic and say that I do believe that we see a slight improvement for BHRR's Hailey! She is still toe touching; yet seems more relaxed, less tense, happier, more like her outgoing self and is eating a bit better.

Her third injection is this Friday and keeping everything crossed for her to have the best results possible for as long as possible; so that we do not have to amputate her leg anytime soon.

She shall have two more injections, one week apart; then we shall re-evaluate/re-examine her and if all is going well; move to one injection bi-weekly and re-assess again then.

KEEP her in your thoughts!

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $765.69 donated to date & Bills $2,793.41
Maggie
Anna & Peter
Credit transferred from BHRR's Journey Rehab Angels – $243.19
Judy – PayPal took $1.75 in fees
Suzanne
CJ Rescue Garage Sale – $247.50(50/50 split to help BHRR's Emma)
Alex & Karen

I have been watching BHRR's Hailey and monitoring and sadly, I have not noted an improvement after the one injection. Her next one is coming up on June 8th and everything crossed!

Once we get the total monies tallied up from the Critter Jungle Rescue Garage Sale, we shall also be splitting that 50/50 between BHRR's Hailey's and BHRR's Emma's Vet Bills to date.

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $443.19 donated to date & Bills $2,793.41
Maggie
Anna & Peter
Credit transferred from BHRR's Journey Rehab Angels – $243.19
Judy – PayPal took $1.75 in fees
Suzanne

I gave BHRR’s Hailey her first of four Cartrophen injections last night. Her one Vet wanted me to do a 1.5 ml once a week instead of 1.4 ml; so this is the new protocol.

She was so awesome! As usual! AND given some BHRR Journey Biscuits as a reward for being so brave! With so much that she has been going though and with how many strangers have been handling and treating her; she is understandably a bit unsure when her collar is taken; so; lots of praise and treaties on hand for this brave girl!

I also meant to post on her previous blog that a FNA biopsy was taken of a sudden small lump found on her one hip. The immediate Vet concern was a MCT yet phewwww; just cellular debris found! 🙂

BHRR's Hailey was back at the Vet yesterday and we x-rayed her back and not just her hips. Just to get the best total picture we can of what is happening with her hips and spine to help determine what our future options can be for her.

The GREAT news; her hips are good and her back looks good! I am posting four of the 7 x-rays taken below(the best shots).

Everyone continues to just love her and remarked on what a good girl and how stoic she is.

Her new weight was 49 KGs(107.80 pounds) and this could be something as easily explained away if she was not set right on the scale or leaning on the wall or maybe, she really did lose the weight as she has now been at the Vet's twice in one week and three times in just 10 days.

Two Vets reviewed her x-rays yesterday while I was also at work and they have been sent off to Dr. Philibert plus Dr. Liston to review and get their own findings/thoughts.

The treatment plan for BHRR's Hailey right now is to keep giving the Deramaxx 100 mg tablets SID; crate rest plus leash walking and beginning on Thursday(the Vet ordered me a bottle of Cartrophen), I will give BHRR's Hailey an injection of 1.4 ml once a week for a month. At that time, we shall re-assess, to see if she has had any improvement; if so; how much or if none at all.

We will re-visit her case in one month, unless; she worsens.

What I want for her is to be active again….to be normal and to live without the chronic acute condition she is in.

Yet, at this time, it looks promising that 'when' the time comes; not 'if'; we can possibly proceed with a leg amputation to give her a much longer quality filled life. I am awaiting the final confirmation from both the ortho Vets and if need, two more exams with them.

I am being extremely proactive with her case and will continue to update as I can.

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $418.19 donated to date & Bills $2,793.41
Maggie
Anna & Peter
Credit from BHRR's Journey Rehab Angels – $243.19
Judy – PayPal took $1.75 in fees


BHRR's Hailey's hips – May 29th, 2012


BHRR's Hailey's – Spine – May 29th, 2012

 

Dr. Liston was able to review BHRR’s Hailey’s X-rays and he made a suggestion re: the use of Cartrophen injections to see if we can get any significant improvement before having to go the amputation route.

This was something that had been previously considered yet; due to the amount of time involved to reach a ‘therepeutic’ result; if at all; was the question. Was not something we were against at least trying and; if; at any time she worsens or there is no improvement; we can re-visit the amputation. I have sent back to Dr. Liston some questions and while I wait for a response; did book as part of her x-rays I scheduled for the 29th; also added a Cartrophen injection.

So, today has been a very busy one with BHRR's Hailey. I have talked to three Vets today(two are ortho specialists) re: her case including having the leg amputation idea thrown by Dr. Philibert, ortho specialist.

I have a bit more information. According to Dr. Philibert, arthrodesis surgery in the hock does not have a high success rate in any dog and in her case, being a Giant, we are back to how many screws, pins and plates she would require, adding to the poor result success prognosis.

I have forwarded on her X-Rays to LAH (Dr. Liston has done three amputations for BHRR in the recent past and I deeply respect and value his expertise too) to see what his thoughts are.

Dr. Philibert recommends doing X-Rays of her hips(they were not done last Friday or Tuesday) for if they are bad, one of two things could be an answer:

1) possible hip surgery to help her and maybe help that leg a bit

2) nothing including a leg amputation is possible

In conversing with the Vets; the arthritis is the main cause of her pain right now or should be.

I have BHRR's Hailey scheduled to go back into KAH on the 29th for sedation to see what those hips are like. We are looking at another $1,000 minimum just in that Vet Bill alone yet; we are using the monies right now that were to go towards an IV pump for BHRR to take care of her. She will not do without and all decisions made are going to be the most informed ones and Dr. Philibert and two other Vets are also going to examine her.

We will use all funds raised at the June 2, Critter Jungle Rescue Garage Sale to help with her bills, I managed to pick up two extra shifts at KAH next week(THANKS!) and if any of those that have met her, love her like we do may consider donating to her cause; we can only be humbly indebted. Thank you…..

I am being extremely proactive with her case and will continue to update as I can.

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

"PLEASE HELP HAILEY HEAL" ANGELS     $150 donated to date & Bills $1,188.03
Maggie
Anna & Peter

 

I have devastating news regarding BHRR's Hailey. 🙁 Dr. Philibert got back to BHRR's Hailey's Vet at KAH yesterday(TALK about fast yet this was a very important case) and when I was there last night with one of my own(Soul for his annual); we had a very detailed and involved conversation.

BHRR's Hailey is not a candidate for any surgery. 🙁 WIth her size; the amount of screws, pins and plates that she would require AND that she is young(usually works in the favour of a dog yet; not in her case being a Giant); Dr. Philibert cannot consider her as the prognosis would be poor with any success. I appreciate his honesty and value his expertise in input. She is not a candidate for any type of surgery of this kind.

So, BHRR's Hailey's only treatment right now medically is the current status quo that we have been doing since she came back to us from her temp foster home. Deramaxx, crate rest. leash walking and ice for when she does have swelling.

THIS is not the quality of life that she should be having NOR is it what we desired, wished and worked so hard for her since she arrived to BHRR. We are devastated, crushed for her and upset to no end. She is way too young, full of life and has made such a journey with her rehabilitation and deserves much!

What I am now asking and waiting for a response is if we amputate that back right leg and she shall no longer have this chronic painful medical issue. Unfortunately BHRR's Hailey's options are very limited for her having any quality form of life if we find out that we cannot amputate that leg; her time of quality filled life is going to be limited. 🙁

I will update her blog as we can.

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

BHRR's Hailey ANGELS:     $150 donated to date & Bills $1,188.03
Maggie
Anna & Peter

BHRR's Hailey's HWT is negative! We do keep the dogs on Sentinel year round yet; we believe that it is still important to do regular HWT for nothing is 100%. 🙂

Unfortunately, BHRR's Hailey's blog is not so great to update. 🙁

So, after trying to sedate her with dorm/torb and then do a quick reversal once the x-rays were done; it was a no-go for 40 minutes later; she was still standing.

So, she was placed under anaesthetic.

I almost wished that what was found was a stifle/cruciate injury. 🙁

At this time, I have to not only take BHRR's Hailey off the adoption program; yet; have to move her to our Haven Dog Program based upon these results and until we converse with Dr. Philibert, ortho specialist and figure out the best move forward plan for BHRR's Hailey. She shall stay on the Deramaxx and leash walking with lots of rest. She is quite good about self-monitoring too.

Per her Vet, she may be able to obtain a fusion surgery – arthordesis to help her. At least that way, she would not be in pain any longer. The leg would be fused yet; her ROM is already limited and she has arthritis already setting in from her injury that is now chronic and acute and is just becoming re-injured over and over again.  This is a very long surgery according to another Vet for they need to file all the bone spurs down as well in this type of surgery AND the cost is enormous. 🙁

I am most concerned about any quality of life for her! She is only 4 years of age!!! That is paramount in my mind and worries. I will be having a very involved discussion re: this.

The minimal swelling is due to this not being a soft tissue injury yet a bone injury of which she has at least three bone spurs now. The Vet remained surprised by the lack of heat present.

Per the Vet:

"Right hind leg – stifle – no anterior drawer motion and radiograph of stifle – no abnormatlities noted. Craniocaudal and lateral view taken of right hock(and left to compare)
Right hock: there are osteophytes present at the tibial talus joint.
Lateral view: Bony proliferative degenerative changes on caudal aspect of distal tibia by talus. Osteophytie on cranial aspect of distal talus(ie by proximal intertarsal joint)
Tarsal/metatarsal joint – naf,
On exam of right hock – there is a loss of range of flexion and extension
Bony swelling and slight soft tissue swelling on medial aspect of joint
Lameness has been chronic, periodic since February(first happened at temp foster home) – ie was kept on Deramaxx for a week with crate rest and leash walk, gradually increase activity and within a few days favours the right limb
Will have Dr. Philibert evaluate radiographs, discuss possible arthrodesis???"

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)

BHRR's Hailey ANGELS:     $50 donated to date & Bills $1,188.03
Maggie


BHRR's Hailey's X-rays – May 22nd, 2012

SOOOOO much to update on BHRR's Hailey!

We ended up not taking her with us to the Pet Valu Appreciation weekend – the Sunday – after all. She was not yet quite ready behavourally to go on the 15th, so we brought BHRR's Kyo and BHRR's Hamilton the Newf instead.

At our April 21st, BHRR 'EXPERIENE' Mini Open House, she was better behavourally; more outgoing and several made comments that she was better than she was in March when they were at BHRR duing our time away and yet; was still not quite normal.

From there, she has continued to improve and we did still send her on her 'date' this past Sunday to get her out of BHRR again and back to social networking in the public exposure arena. We asked the home(they were the recipients of a 'bonus' date with her for the winner of this date knew they would not be able to participate and asked us to pass along should they win to another – we chose the next highest bidder on all the dates of this type to give them the date) to just keep things quiet for her and they did.

The reason to keep her quiet was twofold for we also continue to try to figure out what is wrong with her back right leg. I and Sean freely admit to a certain level of being upset and confused for we have no information to go on as to what really happened to/with her during her time away from us and obviously; BHRR's Hailey cannot talk to us to tell us things. 🙁

So, just as with BHRR's Apollo when he first arrived to BHRR; we continue to go through the paces of what needs to be done and eliminate things and this means, much valuable time and resources is used and lost as we work towards figuring out what is happening.

I ended up bringing BHRR's Hailey back to the Vet on Friday night for 6:30 PM. She weighed a great 49.90 KGs(109.78 pounds). I brought her back for her hock was slightly swollen again and some limping was going on again. There was no heat as usual and her temperature was also normal.

This time, I wanted X-rays done. Unfortunately, due to emergencies etc. that slammed into the Hospital, we were not able to be seen until almost 7:45 pm and we were only able to get one X-ray completed. She is scheduled to go back today to have sedation so that we can properly X-ray the other side of this hock – something not quite right seems to be showing in the one x-ray and I will post that one below – and also x-ray the cruciate. With how we have to extend that leg and she has to lay; this is very stressful and awkward for her. AND we were not able to sedate on the Friday due to the timing of all other cases that came in.

We need that other look to get a really great view of all the small bones.

What can be seen in the one X-ray is a bone spur and calcification to the hock from when she was injured and she had a broken bone that has been healing. 🙁 UGH! Poor her…………We can also see that some arthritis has now set in on that area. 🙁 There is another area that just does not look 'normal' and this is what we plan on further investigating today in addition to that cruciate etc.

When we do get the other X-rays and review them, we shall better be able to piece together what may have happened to her and if she shall require surgery with an ortho specialist. POOR BHRR's Hailey.

I have to also take her out of our BHRR ADOPTION Program right now as she is clearly not healthy and our BHRR commitment to each animal is to ensure that they are done right by before they go up for adoption, with full disclosure made on any conditions found etc.

She remains on Deramaxx and enforced rest at BHRR. Her limping continues to be slight and intermittent and with how long this has now been going on the Vet continues to concur that we could well be looking at a cruciate and/or meniscal injury too. The Vet also was surprised to note that the hock swelling is slight and is not giving off any heat and that this is an ongoing problem and how intermittent with the swelling(toe touching) plus just how unbelievably stoic she continues to be.

The Vet also agrees that we have been patient long enough and that this can continue to possibly be one of the reasons why her behavour is not yet normal(MUCH more happy and outgoing now and more like her normal self of affection etc.!) and the Vet also agrees that we need to know become more aggressive so to speak in obtaining answers.

I shall update her blog as I can. I also have another dog heading into the Vet tomorrow so, it shall be busy at BHRR as usual!

Donations to her growing Vet Bills can be made in the following ways.

Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of 'Birch Haven Rescue' for 'Hailey'. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the 'gift' option)


BHRRs Hailey – May 18th, 2012 back right leg – hock & May 20th on her special 1-on-1 'quiet' date

BHRR's Hailey ANGELS:     $50 donated to date & Bills $1,000+
Maggie

Our Spring Fundraiser is NOW ON!

1st Annual '1-on-1' Special Date With A BHRR Animal Online Auction.

The BHRR Auction will begin at 6:00 AM EST on Saturday April 14th, 2012.
Unfortunately, bids submitted prior to this time cannot be considered.

The BHRR Auction will end at 9:00 PM EST on Thursday April 26th, 2012.

We are still in the process of adding the 'eligible' BHRR doggies, so please visit our website often! WE HAVE 16 DATES so far made available! Date includes a picnic lunch! 🙂

*For more information on each dog available, please visit their dog blog links under each dog's individual bid item details.*

http://www.birchhaven.org/?page_id=8360

Thanks Louise for the great poster!
 

Permission Given To Cross-Post!

ALL MONIES RAISED GO TO THE BHRR ANIMALS!

GENTLE REMINDER:

That BHRR will be at the NEW Pet Valu located in the Kemptville Colonnade Retail Mall(Hwy 43 & 416 – near the new Timmie's & Canadian Tire!), on Saturday April 14th from 10 AM to 3 PM & then again on Sunday April 15th from 11 AM to 4 PM for their Pet Appreciation weekend!

On Saturday – BHRR's Journey and BHRR's Freeze are going to be in attendance plus I shall be bringing Drift to begin his own 'big world' introduction.

On Sunday – BHRR's Hamilton The Newf & BHRR's Hailey shall be in attendance. This shall be good for BHRR's Hailey to also get her back into the 'big world'!

I shall also be doing microchipping for $40 which includes registration – NO APPOINTMENTS NECESSARY!

Looking forward to a great weekend of public awareness/community education on not just BHRR yet; so many other important topics re: animal welfare plus giving our dogs some more fabu experiences! Maybe, some right matched forever loving homes will meet them and consider submittIng an application to adopt. 🙂

Until the end of day on Tuesday April 10th, Luanne of Rusty Dawg Pet Products is hosting the following FUNDRAISER for BHRR through her Arbonne business.

Here is Luanne's Arbonne ONLINE Fundraiser Facebook Page & you can EMAIL HER!

AND here are the details of this Fundraiser of which Lana Burnley-Waters of Pet-errific who has her own Arbonne business shall match each Fundraising Dollar raised by Luanne to then donate to BHRR!

FROM LUANNE AND REMEMBER TO LET LUANNE know that your order is for the BHRR Fundraiser:

April 1-10, 2012

I am hosting an Online Arbonne Party with a portion of my sales being donated to Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services, a wonderful Giant Canine Breed & Equine rescue group in Ottawa area focusing on those with special needs (http://www.birchhaven.org/)!

Arbonne is a Swiss company that is over 30 years old. Their products are non-toxic, botanically based and they have something for everyone, ranging from newborns to senior citizens. I can honestly say Arbonne's products are the best I've ever tried! I have switched all my personal care products to Arbonne & my skin and hair have never looked healthier!

Arbonne products are all Vegan Certified. They do not contain animal products/by-products and they have never & will never test on animals! What a great combination to be able to purchase pure, safe & beneficial products that are truly amazing from an animal friendly company and at the same time supporting a great rescue group 🙂 As an added incentive, if you purchase more than $100 retail during the Party your name will go into a draw to win a product of your choice up to a $60 retail value.

This is your chance to try Arbonne's Ultra-Premium, Swiss formulated products & to also support a wonderful rescue group! The party will be open from April 1, 2012 through to, and including, April 10, 2012 with 10% of all sales being donated to BHRR!

If you sign up as a Preferred Client with a minimum order of $180 (which entitles you to a free product of your choice up to $120 retail value for your first order only), I will donate an additonal $5 to BHRR! As a Preferred Client you get a 20% discount off all your orders plus other specials & monthly promotions that are available only to Preferred Clients. The fee is $35 per year with the renewal fee being only $18! You can read more about being a Preferred Client and all the offers that are available here: https://www.arbonne.ca/company/opportunity/startnow.asp?i=1 (scroll down)

If you sign up as a Consultant with a minimum order of $180 (which entitles you to a free product of your choice up to $120 retail value for your first order only), I will donate an additonal $10 to BHRR! As a Consultant you get a 35% discount off all your orders plus other specials, incentives & monthly promotions that are available only to Consultants. You also earn commission on retail orders placed by personally sponsored Preferred Clients! You can read more about being a Consultant and all the offers that are available here: https://www.arbonne.ca/company/opportunity/startnow.asp?i=2 (scroll down)

For those who live in Ottawa area you can take advantage of the Consolidated Shipping option. I will have all the Ottawa orders shipped to my house and the shipping charges will be split up equally amongst all the orders. It's a great way to save on shipping! In order do this you will need to email your order to me with all your info so that I can input it for you.

For those who live outside of Ottawa, you can place your order directly from my Arbonne website – http://www.luannepelletier.myarbonne.ca/. On the right hand side in the Join Arbonne section, click on "Click Here to become part of Arbonne today!" This takes you to the Arbonne Registration page where you can choose to sign up as a Client (free – no discount), Preferred Client ($35 – 20% discount) or Consultant ($95 – 35% discount). After you register you will be taken to the Shop Online page where you will place your order. After you place your order please email me to let me know that your order is part of BHRR's fundraiser.

If you are already an Arbonne Client you can order as usual through Arbonne's website: https://www.arbonne.ca/ If you would like to take advantage of the Consolidated shipping please email your order to me, along with your Arbonne ID, so I can input it for you.

Arbonne is a global company so those in Canada, United States, Australia and the UK can place orders!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. My email address is: LuanneP@myarbonne.ca.

Here's a link to a Note I posted on Facebook if you want to know more about becoming a Consultant – https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150781591734050

As an added incentive, if you purchase more than $100 retail during the Party your name will go into a draw to win a product of your choice up to a $60 retail value. Pls help me support BHRR and place an order! I know you will not be disappointed with Arbonne's products! They are the best of the best, seriously. They are formulated under the strictest guidelines so they do not contain any toxic chemicals that are typically found in products at the drug stores etc.

Awhile back, I was contacted by a woman named Kathy Radar. She had recently purchased a new vehicle a ‘Journey’ and she had heard about BHRR’s Journey’s story. She contacted me wanting to do a Fundraiser to ‘Fill Up Her Journey For Journey & BHRR Friends’.

This is one reason why we are hosting a special BHRR ‘EXPERIENCE’ Mini Open House in April; for she shall be coming up to BHRR with her friend to drop off her Journey filled with goodies! I thought it would be lovely for her & her friend to meet others involved with BHRR, pass along their own appreciation for her efforts etc. 🙂

For anyone in the London, ON area that would like to participate; please contact Kathy directly. (519) 452-3009 – She is collecting items right up until April 19th inclusive!!!

Journey for JOURNEY campaign poster – Click Link To View Poster! 🙂

 

On another note; BHRR’s Journey’s recheck on her tail, new weight check plus tail appointment shall be rescheduled for next weekend – Saturday March 31st, 2012.

There is much to update on BHRR's Hailey.

From the moment I put her into my car when I picked her up in February; she was not 'right' and I do not mean notably physically; yet; very obviously emotionally.

When I arrived home, she was shaking and it was all that Sean & I could do to get her to go into our house. From there, she either cowered by the door to the pool/screened porch or hid in a crate.

She drooled and panted and paced if she was not cowering. She would not lay down and she was not receptive to touching.

I emailed her temp foster home to ask them if she had had a bad experience for this was not BHRR's Hailey. AT ALL. This home has temp fostered her before and she has always come back, pretty much the same dog that left. They could not recall anything happening other than a short ‘moment’ experience when they got together with someone else who had a female GD and BHRR's Hailey was a bit nervous in the beginning. They did mention that it was the night after this bit of a romp; that BHRR’s Hailey began limping. They were naturally concerned and I have been keeping them updated as I can on her progress.

So, without anything to go on; Sean & I had to rehab here from basics forward. It took almost two days/nights before she would even drink and eat a thing. She was terrified to come through the door to the house and had no interest in any interaction with humans or even her bff's of BHRR's Dana and BHRR's Shiva. 🙁

We have also noted no sign of any physical injury or significant limping either. I have had her checked out by the Vet and she was given a good physical – no major discomfort noted but dogs can be stoic – yet; mentally; she was a far cry from the dog that left to be temp fostered. Even the Vet had some serious concerns about her. The Vet and I did discuss that because she is not playing and having a lot of movement; that we may not be seeing something. I did also ask if she is also being quiet due to possible pain such as a cruciate or meniscus injury for many a dog can become less active and behaviour can change. The Vet concurred and as we have had so much experience with cruciate and meniscal injuries; those can be intermittent with the symptoms. The last thing we need is for another dog to have to undergo a $2,500 surgery. 🙁 So, we shall continue to observe and when she is ready to play or be more active; we will see about that limping. The Vet said to hold off on X-rays right now or seeing a specialist and re-visit as needed. So, we are observing and monitoring closely.

By the time, I had to leave the country on March 8th, she was at least eating and drinking yet; was still quiet and still had not played with any other dog and much preferred to lay in the bedroom. If anything she was 'cranky' to the other dogs. I asked for regular updates on her from several of those that were 'priming' at BHRR while I was gone and it was a relief to note that at least her condition had not digressed from where we managed to get her to before we left. We were advised that she was quiet and calm and seemed accepting.

So, fast forward to today, and BHRR's Hailey is still not back to where she once was; though is better emotionally and what happened to her is still a worry.

In the next couple of weeks; I shall take her off the BHRR premises and see how she fares traveling in a car and visiting other places.

I miss my very affectionate and outgoing and sassy BHRR's Hailey and may she 'come back to us soon'…..

The Panache Pooch 'SHARE YOUR HEART' Fundraiser for BHRR is running from February 1st – February 29th, inclusive! There are now 34 ITEMS available!

25% of all sales of Amanda's collars/leashes currently listed on her Etsy Store shall come to to BHRR!

When you 'SHARE YOUR HEART'; you will be helping animals in need of BHRR!

EMAIL Amanda

All prices are in CDA $. You might have to change your default to CDA $ if need be. 🙂

AND in honour of BHRR BOD member Mary, Amanda & I wish to have this Fundraiser in Carbon's memory. RIP dear boy. YOU will be so deeply missed!

If you would like to see some of the Panache Pooch collars that we have had over the years, please visit HERE!

Crossposting permission given!

UPDATE: $106.75 DONATED TO DATE
 

I am bringing BHRR's Hailey back to BHRR tonight. She went to a temp foster home on February 17th; yet; developed an injury not long after her arrival and she is not better.

Keep her in your positive thoughts.

BHRR shall be expanding our adoption area as of April 1st, 2012. Our new adoption area shall include Halifax, N.S. plus the immediate surrounding area – within 2 hours of Halifax, N.S.

This is Phase 1 of our 5 year adoption expansion area plan.

In order for homes to be approved to adopt; all of our current thorough adoption criteria must be met.

BHRR's shall go back to her temp foster home latertoday and we promise to keep her fan club posted with updates and yes, we shall bug for photos! 😉

HERE is the CBC Ottawa Morning radio interview with Anna, myself & BHRR’s Journey that was live/aired on Monday February 13th, 2012! It was re-aired at 5:40 AM on Tuesday February 14th, 2012

The belief in Journey is so warming to feel plus see and once again from my own heart; THANK you to each and every one for helping her!!! I am and remain wonderfully overwhelmed and humbled deeply by such gifts of money and material goods given to her cause!

I have spent a good part of my AM answering emails, discussing what BHRR does, how BHRR does what we do, that we operate out of our home and those of our approved temp foster homes, why BHRR is so successful at what we do plus deeply thanking everyone for the continued support!

Education is so key and BHRR’s Journey continues to teach many about forgiveness, trust, giving, acceptance plus determination!

She is scheduled to head back to the Vet at KAH on Friday February 17th for a recheck on that tail, possible vaccines and another fecal! GO JOURNEY GO!

AND Anna, I am still in awe and inspired by your generous and giving soul!!!

I also finally was able to hear the interview myself! 😉

BHRR's Journey's article in The Ottawa Citizen.

A heartfelt touching warm story of a community being brought together by a GD who was in urgent need and how inspirational, beautiful their supportive efforts including those of Anna with her incredible WOW YUMMY Fundraising Biscuit idea to help save this special GD has been!

AND, Journey is bombing along in her rehabilitation and come April, she should be ready to be placed up for adoption!

SO many believed in you Journey and so many LOVE you!!! YOU are worthy, deserving and no less important than any other dog! 🙂

Some errors including that almost $3,000 in private donations have been sent not $1,000 to date; BHRR is not located in Oxford Mills; Journey is a 'she' not a he plus some of the timeline in the story is in error. BUT, a lovely article overall! 🙂

A COPY OF THIS ARTICLE IS BELOW:

OTTAWA — When she heard the story of Journey – the emaciated Great Dane found on Highway 401 just before Christmas, close to starvation and covered in bite wounds – Anna Gray-Henschel embarked on a journey of her own. She knew she had to do something to help, but she couldn't have imagined that, more than a month later, she would have baked 20,000 dog biscuits to raise money for his care.

As a dog lover, owner of two Great Danes and someone who recently decided to volunteer at rescue shelters, Gray-Henschel came up with the idea of baking some of her own dogs' favourite cheddar cheese and bacon biscuits and selling them to raise money. The idea had worked when her employer, the RCMP, held fundraising campaigns, so why not try to augment her personal donation toward the poor dog's care? Her goal was to bake 100 dozen and sell them for $3 a dozen. She would then donate all $300 of the proceeds to Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services in Oxford Mills, where Journey was convalescing.

Several weeks later, that 100 dozen has become 1,667 dozen and she still has orders for 167 dozen more. By day, she's a director general in the RCMP's national security criminal investigations branch, and every evening she bakes for four hours. Weekends she puts in 12-hour days by the oven.

"My husband has been joking about our hydro bill," she said. "But he's not really complaining."

When she's not baking, she's delivering the biscuits. By the time she fills all her orders, she will have raised $5,600 toward the dog's extensive vet bills, which will likely top $8,000 and include at least one more surgery. If the orders keep coming, she'll keep baking, providing shipping (when necessary), delivery and the baking supplies at her own expense. She hopes to raise $6,000 by Valentine's Day.

"It's just one thing and it's not a big deal, but it shows you can have a huge impact if you do your little thing," she said. "It's such a small thing to do to help rehabilitate this beautiful dog. It's hard to believe someone would do this to her."

The response to Journey's story has been amazing, said Gwendilin Boers, an animal behaviour specialist (she's a PhD candidate in the subject) who runs the shelter and works part-time at the Kanata Animal Hospital.

"We were shocked by her condition," Boers said. "We see some terrible things in rescue, but she's one of the worse cases I have seen in my 16 years of running the rescue."

Journey weighed 74 pounds when a Great Dane at her age should weigh between 110 and 115 pounds. She had fleas, pieces of her ear tips missing, open bite wounds all over her body, a broken tail, frostbite, hypothermia, dehydration and round worms. Boers suspects she was abused. "She was in tragic shape, to say the least."

Boers said the community support had been all the more impressive coming, as it did, just after Christmas.

Journey was brought to the rescue one day after she was found by a Good Samaritan in the freezing rain on the highway near Brockville.

"I'm beyond touched," Boers said, adding that people such as Gray-Henschel had eased the worries about how they would be able to pay the extensive vet bills associated with Journey's recovery. In addition to those who have contributed to the biscuits campaign, private donations have totalled more than $1,000.

"Journey has been a Christmas miracle," Boers said. "She has met every obstacle she has had to overcome with grace and good temperament. She's a very loving dog who has brought so many people together in the spirit of giving. Anna's contribution is just wonderfully overwhelming."

Boers thought it would be June before Journey would be ready for adoption, but, given her progress so far – she now weighs close to 100 pounds – she estimates it will be mid-April.

Donations are being accepted through the Kanata Animal Hospital or by email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org. Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation is accepting donations through PayPal.

 

BHRR's Holden, BHRR's Hailey and BHRR's Veteran came with me tonight to do a home visit. IT was a great visit for all of them! BHRR's Veteran learnt about cats and stairs and BHRR's Holden learnt about being more comfortable in strange situations and asking more openly for love and BHRR's Hailey; well; what can I say; she was Ms. Princess all the way! Had all fooled that she was a model 'lady'! cheeky

Tomorrow night, BHRR's Dana and BHRR's Holden are going to come with me to do a home visit and looking forward to posting about their own progress and experiences.

EACH time these dogs go out; the great experiences they have; only continues to make them even more well balanced plus well rounded! It is a huge win for them! 🙂 Plus, it is nice to see homes that we visit have the time with these gentle giants and have their own experiences having the interaction with these amazing dogs! 🙂 WIN-WIN all the way!

 

In honor of Gwennie, the Founder of BHRR,  all of us are wishing her a most wonderful and special of birthdays today – February 3rd!

As we have done for the last 2 years as a surprise for Gwennie; if you believe in BHRR; enjoy all the blog updates, pictures, open houses, GD hikes, Gwennie novel posts, her educational articles plus links; please make a donation in support of her rescue efforts.

This fundraiser shall run through until 11:59 PM today – Friday February 3rd, 2012

This blog post was made without Gwennie's awareness as we have managed to do in the past and we hope that once again, she shall be pleasantly surprised!

You can help ease her stress and worries somewhat today about always worrying about money for food to help those in need of the BHRR programs. You can help ease her stress and worries somewhat today about coming up with funds for food by either donating a bag of food or making a donation for food to be bought. You can help ease her stress and worries somewhat today about the mounting food bills for BHRR for beside Vet Bills, this is BHRR's biggest expense.

Together let's make that BHRR 'chain of success' for Gwennie even more strong today!

Email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org or via PayPal (account gwen@birchhaven.org) OR even bring a bag of food or cash donation to the upcoming BHRR Open House to help BHRR out! As Gwennie states so often, there is no amount too small.

Several of us approached Gwennie again this year to ask what she wanted for her birthday and once again never did she mention anything for herself. Always her family, friends or the animals.

Please do help us make a birthday very special today for a very special lady who operates a very special Rescue by making a food donation to BHRR.

Total Raised to Date$905 + 6 bags of food

Gwennie's BHRR BIRTHDAY Food Believers & Supporters:

Anonymous

Anonymous

Lana & Warren of Pet-errific

Paula & Serge

Sara

Anonymous

Anonymous

Alexandra

Cheryl

Mary

Karen

Jan

Sherry

Maggie

Anna

 

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.

Our XMAS Shutdown period for this year is from Saturday December 17th, 2011 to Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 inclusive.

During this time, BHRR is available 24/7 as always for requests for assistance of animals in need.

BHRR's 4TH ANNUAL 'JUST IN TIME' FOR XMAS Online Auction shall begin Saturday November 19th @ 7 AM EST and shall run through until Thursday December 1st @ 9 PM EST.

If anyone has any items they would ike to donate inluding services, gift certificates or gift cards; please EMAIL. We will take donations right up until the day the auction shall end. BHRR only hosts three planned Fundraisers a year and every penny goes back to the animals!

We have many bills coming up for some very special animals including BHRR's Bloom and your support would be so appreciated!

Click on the poster for more information!

PERMISSION TO CROSS-POST and if you would like a poster to put up at your work, local businesses etc., please email us for one!

KEEP CHECKING BACK AS MORE ITEMS SHALL BE ADDED DAILY!

From her temp foster home tonight:

"She's indescribable.  She is such a funny and beautiful girl, and everyday she makes us so happy."

Photo below is from our July 31st, GD & Honourary GD Walk/Hike at Conroy! It was a really HOT day yet we had her cool coat and she had a blast!

BHRR's Hailey shall go to her temp foster home for a two week playdate beginning on Saurday November 12th. I have much to update on this lovely black beauty plus to add photos and as soon as I can get back on my main computer, she is a top priority to blog about!

She remains AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION and we remain patient as always!

‘Spare a Loonie for Bloomy’

Hello Everyone!!

We are now launching the ''Spare a Loonie for Bloomy'' campaign, starting November 1st, 2011 (11-1-11) and running until December 1st, 2011 (12-1-11); We would like to encourage everyone to invite their family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, etc. to donate $1.

Even if you think that $1 won't make a difference, one thousand loonies certainly will! You can drop off the money at DögHaus (5671 Sherbrooke West) in Bloom's piggy bank or donate directly to Bloom's file (100861) at by calling the DMV (514-633-8888).

OR you can donate via Paypal ( gwen@birchhaven.org) or by email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org (make sure you send the pw) or by mailing a bank draft out to 'Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabiltation Services(BHRR)' and mail to:

Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR)
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0
Canada

Many places have 'casual' Fridays and considering choosing BHRR's Bloom's cause for one of those office days!

Please share this message with everyone you know, we can use all the help we can get to reach our goal!

Let's make a change with change!!

**Keep in mind that it costs the DMV money every time they process a credit card transaction, and many companies enforce a $5 minimum rule.***

BHRR's Bloom's Angels:

Stéphanie
Bloom's Carnival Fundraiser Angels
Brian
Anonymous
Anonymous

 

Total Raised To Date: $965
Total Needed to Raise: $4,000

On Sunday October 30th, 2011 – Global Pet Foods – Kanata (AND yes, that is BHRR's Lil Linus on the front page with his tongue! LOL) is hosting Photo Sessions for $10 as well as $10 nail trims and they so very kindly have chosen BHRR as their Animal Rescue of choice whereby 50% of the proceeds raised shall come to BHRR!

Nail trims are by appointment ONLY!

Please contact Global Pet Foods – Kanata directly (613) 599-0660 to reserve your nail spot!

THIS FUNDRAISER IS FOR DOGS AND CATS

Time: 11 AM – 3 PM
Place: Global Pet Foods – Kanata 700 Eagleson Road

 

**PLEASE CROSSPOST**

From Friday October 21st to Friday November 4th inclusive, BHRR will not be open for adoptions or the intake of adoption applications. We do not adopt out around the Halloween season and many others Rescues, shelters, pounds etc. have also begun to follow a similar protocol to what we have been doing.

We do not believe it is on the best interest of the animals in our program, especially for dark coloured dogs.

During this time, BHRR is available 24/7 as always for requests for assistance of animals in need. 

BHRR's 4th ANNUAL Dinner Boat Cruise & Live/Silent Auction Fundraiser is being held on Saturday October 1st! We ONLY have 7 tickets left AND you can pay via PayPal (gwen@birchhaven.org); email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org (please ensure that we have the pw) OR Bank Draft! The boat is reserved ONLY for BHRR participants and their guests.

BHRR is still looking for items for our Live & Silent Auction for this Fundraiser. BHRR ONLY hosts 3 planned Fundraisers a year and this is our second fundraiser event for 2011.

BHRR does not receive any corporate or federal/provincial government funding.

If you have any items that you would like to donate to BHRR; pleae email! THANKS so much!!!!!

 

Adoption Application Revisions

As of September 1st, 2011; the Board of Directors will be implementing some revisions to our BHRR adoption process. These changes involve age of children in homes for a possible BHRR adoption and the expansion of our adoption area to now include parts of New York, USA.

Revision #1:

As of September 1st, 2011; BHRR shall consider adoption applications to NOT only the whole provinces of Ontario and Quebec in Canada yet shall also consider homes in the state of New York, USA that are no more than 3 hours from BHRR. These areas in New York, USA shall include those listed below and all immediate surrounding areas AS long as the potential adoptive home is no more than 3 hours from the physical locale of BHRR in Eastern Ontario, CDA:
Oswego
Alexandria Bay
Massena
Watertown
Antwerp
Syracuse
Clayton

Revision #2:

WE DO NOT place any dog with a family with children under the age of 8 unless the below additional conditions/requirements have been met to the satisfaction of the BOD of BHRR. Only then shall the BOD of BHRR consider those homes that have children younger than the age of 8 yet they must be over the age of 5:
a) ONLY homes that have no more than 2 children shall be considered if said children are under the age of 8 and over the age of 5
b) ONLY dogs that BHRR deem most suitable for homes with children within these ages shall be considered
c) ONLY homes that have prior suitable breed type experience ie Great Danes for a Great Dane possible adoption or a Saint Bernard for a Saint Bernard possible adoption shall be considered
d) ONLY homes that have no more than one dog already and that dog must be a right matched personality fit; shall be considered should any children be under the age of 8 and over the age of 5
e) ONLY homes that have all family members in attendance for the home visit and only those same homes that have all family members come to BHRR to meet us shall be considered
BHRR stresses that children and dogs should NEVER be left unsupervised together!
NO EXCEPTIONS.
*This is a legal, insurance and moral obligation/responsibility that we will adhere to.

For complete details regarding the BHRR adoption process; please visit our Application & Fees page. BHRR shall continue to ONLY place per best matched personality fit and our adoption success rates were 100% for over 10 years of operating and as we are heading into our 16th year; our adopton success rates are 99%.

So, it has been a busy time for BHRR in the last 24+ hours for I brought home both BHRR's Hailey and BHRR's Apollo from their temp foster homes. BHRR's Hailey on Saturday and BHRR's Apollo tonight.

BHRR's Hailey had gone to her temp foster home on Friday August 5th and due to circumstances having unexpectedly come up; I brought her back on Saturday. We continue to wish her temp foster family all the best and BHRR's Barbed Wire is not able to be brought in at this time as the spot that BHRR's Hailey had opened up by being temp fostered; was to go to BHRR's Barbed Wire.

BHRR's Apollo had gone to his temp foster home on Friday July 15th and he shall hopefully, return to this foster home in about two weeks time. 🙂

BHRR wants to stress that NEITHER one of these situations involved something a BHRR dog did. Life happens sometimes…..

JUST some exerpts from BHRR's Hailey's foster home:

"and at one point both her and our black boy Oliver were seen sitting at the back sliding door…watching the sun setting together."

"We had some wonderful walks together today…she's enjoying discovering her new neighbourhood."

"The two of us went for a fun run through the park together which she seemed to really enjoy….all in all…IT WAS A BLAST!!!  She's very sweet and honestly, a very respectful girl."

"Hailey has been such a doll and you have trained her so well.  Fostering has been a breeze!"

"I wish that we could have kept her for longer."

JUST two SLEEPIES until the 4th ANNUAL KAH/BHRR Microchip/Nail Trim & BBQ Fundraiser being held at Kanata Animal Hospital – 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario on Sunday July 17th, 2011

Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

NO APPOINTMENTS NECESSARY & RAIN OR SHINE!

There will also be Pet Photos, Caricatures, Face Painting, Free Draws, Human Bake Table, Doggie Treats, Leashes, Collars, BHRR Bracelets, Tug Ropes and more!

Microchips$40 – For Cats & Dogs
Nail Trims$10 – For Cats, Dogs, Guinea Pigs & Rabbits

The Rogers Community Cruiser shall be on hand from 10:00 AM – Noon with free timbits & coffee

Complimentary Behavoural/Training Consult Sessions to be had with the Founder of BHRR & Animal Behavoural Student G. Boers

The microchips are from 24PetWatch and they meet the requirements of the revised Canadian standard for electronic identification of companion animals. These microchips are also accepted by the CKC. Animal microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and are typically implanted just beneath the skin between the shoulder blades.

Every year millions of lost and abandoned animals are taken in by shelters, pounds, humane societies, SPCA's and rescue organizations. Of these animals only about 15% of dogs and 5% of the cats (estimated numbers) are ever returned to their homes. The primary reason that the statistics are so low is, because the pets are unidentifiable. Microchipping provides the only truly permanent method of identifying your pet(dogs and cats-especially outdoor one's!) and networking the animal back to their owners. If you want to improve your cat or dog's chances of getting home; microchipping is your best option.

Out of 20 dogs gone missing in our area, only 7 have been found to date; of which 4 were microchipped.

This is the largest Mircochip Fundraiser in CANADA!

UPDATE: At this time, BHRR's Hailey is still at BHRR and has not yet gone to the temp foster home. The same goes for BHRR's Benjamin. This greatly hinders us in our plans to have brought in BHRR's Barbed Wire at the end of June from KY, USA yet circumstances are what they are and it is what it is!

BHRR's Hailey's temp fostering date has been pushed to Saturday July 2nd, 2011. So excited for her and her temp foster family BUT I am sure going to miss her!

To learn about how to become a BHRR Approved Volunteer or Foster Home; please visit our Foster/Volunteer Page. BHRR can always use more wonderful temp foster homes within 2.5 hours of our location.

BHRR wants to stress the following:

All of our adoption mandates, processes plus policies are clearly posted on both our PetFinder and Home Website. Additionally, our application is very detailed in respect to the same and each animals' blog on both PetFinder and on our Home Website; advises to become familar with our adoption criteria, before submitting an application to be reviewed.

If for any reason you do not agree to what BHRR requires of a BHRR adoptive home; pleae do not apply. This includes not being in support of our non-refundable application fee, our mandatory obedience clause, requiring a signed letter of permission from a landperson if renting,  no adoptions to homes with children under the age of 9, that we are a Special Needs focused based Rescue, that you refuse to keep pets safe, refuse to alter any non-show pets etc.

BHRR's requirements are written very specifically and are explicit in detail for anyone visiting our sites. We are always most happy to answer any questions, yet will only do so to those that are courteous in their manner plus approach.

BHRR is a highly reputable/quality registered NPO operated by an ALL Volunteer team, without any salaried employees and many of us have families plus full time Careers and other commitments outside of Rescue. I am deeply disturbed by what members of the BOD of BHRR had to address recently over an application that was submitted for review.  I feel for those BHRR members that took on the responsibility to continue to try and educate and be professional when this application was declined. Here I was sitting in emerg waiting to address clearly broken bones and am most unappreciative to witness what was sent BHRR's way after this application was declined in a professional manner with much explanation as to the reasons why their application could not proceed.

If they had just read and respected what was clearly posted, they would be well aware that we are not going to make ANY EXCEPTIONS on very important clauses, clauses that has given BHRR a second to none adoption success rate of 100% in over 10 years of operating and now is 99% as we are in our 15+ year.

In addition, your occupation as what has been stated before, is no indication that you are going to take proper care of an animal. BHRR's Lexi and BHRR's Hailey both came from a very bad domestic abuse situation where they were sorely mistreated and the one Owner is a promimant member of his own community. Abuse is not limited to specific Careers, race, colour or creed. It knows no boundaries. 🙁

You might believe you are a wonderful home yet the application process is our way of getting to know you and to determine if your home would qualify for a BHRR animal. All members of BHRR are part of our extended family and we are always seeking to have new approved Volunteers and Homes join us!

Please refer to:

BEFORE APPLYING &
APPLICATION AND FEES &
FOSTER AND VOLUNTEER

In summary; PLEASE DO NOT apply to be considered if you do not meet these very detailed and visible mandates plus clauses and respect them.

Rescue is hard enough in trying to save animals in need and their wellbeing remains one of our top priorities.

 

 

LAST Gentle Reminder: The FACEBOOK BHRR Discussion Group has MOVED to! – http://www.facebook.com/BHRRCanada

Hello,

This is just a last gentle reminder that our Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) Group has moved!

NEW FAN PAGE – http://www.facebook.com/BHRRCanada

With the 'upgrade' and 'archiving' of the current discussion groups on Facebook, we believe that the needs of our Rescue & Rehab organization cannot sufficiently be met any longer and hence the change to a BHRR FAN PAGE Format.

As of June 1st; the current Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) Facebook DISCUSSION GROUP had all members deleted and then the group was permanently disabled and so as of the evening of Thursday May 5th, 2011 we have since moved to a Facebook Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) FAN PAGE format instead.

http://www.facebook.com/BHRRCanada

Our BHRR FAN Page is very interactive, user friendly and fosters great networking plus social friendships and it also feeds into our BHRR Twitter account! We already have had some good discussions with insightful comments happening!

So, to stay abreast of all things uniquely BHRR including requests for assistance, Event/Fundraiser Announcements, upcoming 'EXPERIENCE' Open Houses, GD & Honourary GD Walks/Hikes INCLUDING any Lost & Found Animals, interesting tidbits, Animal Welfare topics, courtesy postings for other reputable/quality organizations/groups, community events etc.; do come and 'LIKE' our Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) FAN PAGE –
http://www.facebook.com/BHRRCanada

Sorry for any inconvenience caused! 🙁

http://www.facebook.com/BHRRCanada is the URL to crosspost! As of now, we have 226 Supporters & counting! Thanks for joining the migration! 🙂

Thanks everyone for your understanding plus patience as we make this necessary transition to continue to have the best network in place to continue to assist animals in need of our programs with your strong 'CHAIN OF SUCCESS' support!

The BHRR Team

So, BHRR's Apollo and BHRR's Hailey came with me on Saturday to do a hv and I brought BHRR's Apollo as he is good with cats and well, who does not love him! I also brought BHRR's Hailey for I felt she out of all the dogs at BHRR would be the best matched personality fit for this possible future temp foster home and this was clearly a case of the 'dog choosing the home' indeed when she met them!

While BHRR's Apollo was clearly not himself, BHRR's Hailey walked right up and claimed the family as her own! She made herself right at home and even decided that drinking from my water glass was much preferable to the doggie bowl laid out for her. BHRR's Apollo then followed suit! 😉 The family was very kind as to offer up another glass of water just for me! LOL

It is times like this that I just sit back in 'awe' and watch magic unfold!

So, should all go well, BHRR's Hailey will be going to this now approved temp foster home after our BHRR 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House on Saturday June 25th!

To learn more about how to be a BHRR Approved Volunteer/Temp Foster Home; please click here.

The more approved temp foster homes and the more approved adoptive homes that BHRR has, the more animals in need we can assist with your help!

I hope that they have a fantabulous foster experience and I also hope that BHRR's Hailey continues along her path of social networking, great experiences, making new friends, continuing with her solid foundation in obedience etc.

Going to miss this black beauty AND special thanks to the home that 'saw' past her colour to HER!

As for BHRR's Apollo, he needed some 'tough' love to enter their main area and to all that know who BHRR's Apollo is, how he was at their home; would have surprised you. It reminded me of when I adopted out DBB BHRR's Jenni. The home was interested in BHRR's Abbi yet I felt the right matched personality fit would be BHRR's Jenni and she proved that to be so very valid and true! Walked right in and made herself at home while BHRR's Abbi wanted to be anywhere but there. PROOF in point that yes, the dog often does choose the home! 😉

 

BHRR's Apollo and BHRR's Hailey are with me today to do a hv for BHRR.

BHRR's Apollo weight was 68.2 KGs(150.04 pounds) and BHRR's Hailey's weight was 46.7 KGs(102.34 pounds).

Will update more after the hv! 🙂

Since we have launched our NEW Facebook BHRR FAN PAGE , (see below blog); BHRR is going to be implementing some changes to our blog posts currently being made on here, our home website. With how wonderfully interactive plus informatively laid out our NEW Facebook BHRR FAN PAGE is, we shall no longer be doing as many posts on the Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services home website blogs yet instead posting on our BHRR FAN PAGE almost exclusively! Our BHRR FAN Page is very interactive, user friendly and fosters great networking plus social friendships and it also feeds into our BHRR Twitter account!

So, to stay abreast of all things uniquely BHRR including requests for assistance, Event/Fundraiser Announcements, upcoming 'EXPERIENCE' Open Houses, GD & Honourary GD Walks/Hikes INCLUDING any Lost & Found Animals, interesting tidbits, Animal Welfare topics, courtesy postings for other organizations, community events etc.; do come and 'LIKE' our Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) FAN PAGE

As of June 1st; the current Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) Facebook DISCUSSION GROUP shall have all members deleted and then the group permanently disabled/deleted and so as of the evening of Thursday May 5th, 2011 we have since moved to a Facebook Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) FAN PAGE format instead.

All 256 members of our current BHRR DISCUSSION Group have now been notified of the change to our NEW Facebook BHRR FAN PAGE and we shall send out another notice as a gentle reminder a couple of days before deleting all members from the old Discussion 'GROUP'.

Sorry for any inconvenience caused! :(

http://www.facebook.com/BHRRCanada is the URL to crosspost! As of now, we have 132 Supporters & counting! Thanks for joining the migration! :)

Please inform those you know that follow us on the BHRR DISCUSSION GROUP that this GROUP will be deleted as of June 1st, 2011. We have so many that still have not moved over, so please help us get the word out! Please re-direct them to our NEW FACEBOOK BHRR FAN PAGE! Please come on over and 'LIKE' us!

Thanks everyone for your understanding plus patience as we make this necessary transition to continue to have the best network in place to continue to assist animals in need of our programs with your strong 'CHAIN OF SUCCESS' support!

 

 

As of June 1st; the current Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) Facebook DISCUSSION GROUP shall have all members deleted and then the group permanently disabled/deleted.

Since the evening of Thursday May 5th, 2011 we have since moved to a Facebook Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) 'Like' FAN PAGE format instead.

The current DISCUSSION groups are going to be archived & even for those that qualify to 'upgrade', groups shall lose the ability to 'interact' with all members. We depend on that important function to save animals in need through our posts for urgent requests and to update our supporting members on BHRR news.

All 256 members of our current BHRR DISCUSSION Group have now been notified of the change to our NEW Facebook BHRR 'LIKE' FAN PAGE FORMAT and we shall send out another notice as a gentle reminder a couple of days before deleting all members from the old Discussion 'GROUP'.

Sorry for any inconvenience caused! :(

http://www.facebook.com/BHRRCanada is the URL to crosspost! As of now, we have 96 Supporters & counting! Thanks for joining the migration! :)

Please inform those you know that follow us on the BHRR DISCUSSION GROUP that this GROUP will be deleted as of June 1st, 2011. We have so many that still have not moved over, so please help us get the word out! Please re-direct them to our NEW FACEBOOK BHRR FAN PAGE! Please come on over and 'LIKE' us!

Thanks everyone for your understanding plus patience as we make this necessary transition to continue to have the best network in place to continue to assist animals in need of our programs with your strong 'CHAIN OF SUCCESS' support!

 

Here are the May availability dates/times for play dates, day trips and play trips for the BHRR dogs for our approved BHRR Volunteers to consider.

Please email if interested in giving a BHRR animal extra BLAST of a time social/training experiences!

Monday May 2nd – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Tuesday May 2nd – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Wednesday May 4th – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Tuesday May 10th – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Wednesday May 11th – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Friday May 13th – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Saturday May 14th – Anytime between 8 AM – 4 PM
Monday May 16th – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Tuesday May 17th – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Friday May 20th – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Saturday May 21st – Anytime between 8 AM – 4 PM
Tuesday May 24th – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
Wednesday May 25th – Anytime between 2 PM – 8 PM
 

Here are the April availability dates for play dates, day trips and play dates for the BHRR dogs for our approved BHRR Volunteers to consider. BHRR's Lily Belle is not on this list as she is currently under a "PENDING ADOPTION" and we should know by end of Monday April 4th, that status of her application. Thanks everyone for your continued patience!

 

Friday April 1st – Anytime between Noon – 8 PM
Saturday April 2nd – Anytime between 8 AM – 4 PM
Wednesday April 6th – Anytime between 4 PM – 8 PM
Monday April 11th – Anytime between Noon – 8 PM
Wednesday April 13th – Anytime between 4 PM – 8 PM
Friday April 15th – Anytime between 4 PM – 8 PM
Saturday April 16th – Anytime between 8 AM – 4 PM
Monday April 18th – Anytime between Noon – 8 PM
Tuesday April 19th – Anytime between Noon – 8 PM
Wednesday April 20th – Anytime between 4 PM – 8 PM
Saturday April 23rd – Anytime between 8 AM – 4 PM
Monday April 25th – Anytime between Noon – 8 PM
Wednesday April 27th – Anytime between 4 PM – 8 PM
Friday April 29th – Anytime between 4 PM – 8 PM
Saturday April 30th – Anytime between 8 AM – 4 PM

Please email if interested in giving a BHRR animal extra BLAST of a time social/training experiences!

HE SHOOTS! HE SCORES! AND YOU CAN TOO!

'HELP SCORE FOR THE BHRR & DiD ANIMALS' HOCKEY TICKETS – High Bid 'War' – CLOSED!

Thank you to all that helped raise much needed monies for both of our Rescues!

WINNING BID: $265
WINNING BIDDER: K. Shields

 

Two Ontario Great Dane Rescues – Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) & Danes in Distress(DiD) have come together to host this 2011 High Bid "War" to benefit animals in need of both of our programs.

These amazing pair of Hockey Tickets are to the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. the Ottawa Senators game being held on Saturday April 2nd, 2011 at Scotiabank Place in Ottawa starting at 7:00 PM.

These seats are in the 100L- Section 109 Row C and are fantabulous seats! The value on these pair of tickets are $400+ CDA.

TOTAL VALUE: $400+

The ‘HELP SCORE FOR THE BHRR & DID ANIMALS HOCKEY hig' Bid 'War' began on Wednesday March 23rd @ 8:00 AM EST and shall end on Tuesday March 29th @ 9:00 PM EST.

Tickets can be couriered at no cost to the winner for their convenience to their place of business or home.

To bid on the Sens vs. Leafs tickets, please email contactbhrr@gmail.com with your full name, address, phone number including area code, and please indicate your bid amount.

Bidding shall start at $100 and the website shall be updated regularly.

Note: Payment for the winning bidder must come direct to BHRR and BHRR will ONLY accept a payment of M/C OR VISA OR AMEX OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org (please ensure that we have the password).

Danes in Distress(DiD) shall NOT be accepting any payment for these Hockey bid tickets and will be directing all interest to BHRR. Any payment made direct to DiD shall be considered a donation and not as payment for these Hockey tickets for this Fundraiser.

Note: BHRR shall NOT accept any PayPal payment per their rules & regulations. Any monies sent via that method will be considered a donation.

Note: BHRR shall NOT accept personal checks.

Note: NO REFUNDS GIVEN

After confirmation of receipt of payment sent to BHRR, BHRR will make arrangements to get your winning tickets to you ASAP.

Our deepest thanks being sent out in advance to everyone for your consideration in participating to help both BHRR and DiD continue to save animals in need of assistance! By showing your support, you are representing a wonderful effort to a great cause!

  • The BHRR Auction will begin at 8:00 AM EST on Wednesday March 23rd, 2011. Unfortunately, bids submitted prior to this time cannot be considered.
  • The BHRR Auction will end at 9:00 PM EST on Tuesday March 29nd, 2011. The highest bid on these tickets will be determined based on the time of the email sent as recorded by the time marked by our ISP.
  • High bidders will be identified each day ONLY by their first name and last initial.
  • All bid prices are in Canadian funds.
  • Bids must be done in $5.00 or Greater increments.
  • When bidding please include your first and last name plus a phone number that you can be reached at if necessary.
  • All Bidders must be at LEAST 18 years of age or older.
  • All bids are considered final and binding, please do not bid if you do not intend to follow through on payment. Also, please do not bid on behalf of anyone else without their explicit written permission. The owner of the email will be considered the bidder and responsible/accountable for the bid/payment should their email be the winning bidder.
  • High Bidder will be posted every day of the BHRR Auction and on the final Auction day; the bids shall be updated with postings made regularly until the BHRR Auction closes.
  • If you wish to leave a "maximum" bid as you will not be around to monitor the auction closely yourself, please indicate that in your email when making your bid. Only emailed bids will be accepted.
  • FULL payment is required within 24 hours of being notified of being the winner.
  • Should you be in default of not honouring your bid(which really affects the animals the most), the next person with the highest bid shall be offered the Tickets as the winner.
  • There are NO Returns or Exchanges and BHRR is not responsible for the condition of the Hockey Tickets upon receipt to the winner(s).

About Taxes: You are not actually buying these tickets in this online auction. What you are doing is making a donation and then receiving the item in turn as a thank you. All taxes have been paid on the items you are bidding on.

PERMISSION GIVEN TO CROSS POST!

The BHRR & DiD Teams

The ‘BHRR’ Experience – One Volunteers Blog

Below is a note that the approved BHRR Volunteer wrote on her fb wall about her BHRR 'EXPERIENCE' in taking care of BHRR/our home while I had my first family vacation in almost 6 years. With her permission, it has been posted below. As I say so often to others plus posted this as a response to her fb wall post:

"AND I would love to 'share' your note with others interested in BHRR – either by adopting, volunteering, learning more about our stellar programs etc. – with your permission. I could never say any words better than what those themselves that are involved could say about the BHRR 'EXPERIENCE'. It is all of you that are the 'voice' making that 'CHAIN OF SUCCESS' so strong…"

 

Day 12 – Novice in Rescue , My Adventure at BHRR – Home coming for all

by Suzanne Desjardins on Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 9:13pm

 

Is there ever anything sweeter than being home ???? I am very certain Gwen,Sean and kids feel the same…I have made some personal journeys in life but this is one for the bucket list 4sure …

I  will never think of rescue in another way except wow, the work involved is just staggering ….and i wasn't even training or rehabbing…..just reinforcing.  BUT the REWARDS are PRICELESS………

If anyone reading this note or my prior notes wonders how they too could be involved…DONATE DONATE DONATE…The amount of food that i fed over the 12 days was mind boggling …FOOD is life for this small respectable,reputable ONE OF A KIND rescue ….so the next time time you are in the pet store or grocery store , buy a bag and and let Gwen know you have food……..Towels, sheets, comforters, pinesol, treats, ALL very much needed …………..

I had tears in my eyes as I left today… there are several that I loved prior to this, and they have cemeted themselves in my heart forever…Potter, Soul and Albert, his trust in me was moving….Bleach is AMAZING for a deaf/blind puppy ….the way he motors around is nothin short of WOW………

 Gwen…. I thank you …………

HE SHOOTS! HE SCORES! AND YOU CAN TOO!

'HELP SCORE FOR THE BHRR & DID ANIMALS' HOCKEY RAFFLE – ONLY 350 Tickets available – *ENDS Wednesday @ 9:00 PM EST
 

*CONGRATULATIONS TO D. Harbin of Ottawa, ON & to all in participating to raise funds for GD Rescue!*
 

Two Ontario Great Dane Rescues – Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) & Danes in Distress(DID) have come together to host this 2011 Hockey Raffle to benefit animals in need of both of our programs.

These amazing pair of Hockey Tickets are to the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. the Ottawa Senators game being held on Saturday April 2nd, 2011 at Scotiabank Place in Ottawa starting at 7:00 PM.

These seats are in the 100L- Section 109 Row O and are excellent seats! The value on these pair of tickets are $400+ CDA.

Furthermore, a Parking Voucher for free regular parking is included for the winner's added bonus!

Furthermore, Linda @ PJ Quigley's located @ 250 Greenbank Road donated a pre-game dinner for 2 (up to $25) to the winner!

TOTAL VALUE: $450+

We shall ONLY be selling 350 tickets and they are $10.00 each or 3 for $25.00.

The ‘HELP SCORE FOR THE BHRR & DID ANIMALS HOCKEY RAFFLE’ ticket sales began on Monday February 21st @ 8:00 AM EST and shall end on Wednesday March 9th @ 9:00 PM EST.

The draw shall take place on Thursday March 10th @ 8:00 AM EST and the tickets can be couriered at no cost to the winner for their convenience to their place of business or home.

To purchase your raffle tickets, please email contactbhrr@gmail.com with your full name, address, phone number including area code, number of tickets you would like to buy and please indicate your method of payment.

Note: All payments for raffle tickets must come direct to BHRR and BHRR will ONLY accept payments of M/C OR VISA OR AMEX OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org (please ensure that we have the password).

Danes in Distress(DID) shall NOT be accepting any payments for these Hockey raffle tickets and will be directing all interest to BHRR. Any payments made direct to DID shall be considered a donation and not as payment for Hockey raffle tickets for this Fundraiser.

Note: BHRR shall NOT accept PayPal payments per their rules & regulations. Any monies sent via that method will be considered a donation.

Note: BHRR shall NOT accept personal checks.

Note: NO REFUNDS GIVEN

Note: Odds of winning are based upon total number of raffle tickets sold.

After confirmation of receipt of payment sent to BHRR, BHRR will email a copy of your raffle ticket(s) in a pdf format with your individual raffle tracking ticket number(s).

Our deepest thanks being sent out in advance to everyone for your consideration in participating to help both BHRR and DID continue to save animals in need of assistance! By showing your support, you are representing a wonderful effort to a great cause!

 

PERMISSION GIVEN TO CROSS POST!

The BHRR & DID Teams

BHRR mourns the February 18th, 2011 loss of a treasured friend to many – Victim to Bloat/Tort.
Trice, beloved best friend of BHRR Board of Director member Barry.
As per Barry's wishes, Trice has been laid to eternal rest at BHRR, missed by all.
May all those that have been touched by Trice, cherish the incredible gifts that he has bestowed upon them.

Though Barry has requested that any donations in honour of Trice's memory be sent to BHRR; I would like to respectfully ask of each and every person that has had the special pleasure of being blessed to be touched by Trice; to share a photo and/or memory Barry's way. AND to please pass along your support of heart plus caring.

This was not the week it should have been for either one of them when they travelled up from the east coast earier that day. Trice was to come to BHRR for training/tweaking and the week was to be full of fun GD/Human hikes/walks, good training sessions, fantastic play dates, lots of laughter and tons of great memories with friends to warm the heart plus soul. 

I am blessed myself to have been called and upon directing all to meet me at AVAH; to have had the 'gift' of opportunity to pass along my good-byes and tears of heart ache on the night of his passing. This is a dog that I very much adored, has made me a better behavoural expert/trainer plus person and he has touched me very deeply since he plus Barry first crossed my path many years ago. To say that I love the 'Trices' of the world is putting it lightly. I live with a "Trice", I understand/accept the 'Trices' of the world and I feel truly fortunate to have had my life touched by this special Trice!

His loss has affected so many and I know that CH. Dyceman is completely crushed not to have had the opportunity and experiences that should have been theirs during the week that Trice was to be at BHRR. Trice was truly Dyce's best of friends and it has been a week of deep mourning for all……


A portrait of Trice by Barclay Guinn Fine Arts (an example of Barclay's work that had been shown at our 2009 BHRR Boat Cruise Fundraiser)
& BHRR's Kingston with Trice – August 28th, 2009(one of my fav pictures).

Honouring my 'promise!' 2 Pictures of BHRR's Hailey from February 2nd, 2011 – 'WINTER WONDERLAND DAY' @ BHRR!


BHRR's Hailey & BHRR's Benjamin with BHRR's Hailey
 

I have had not one, not two but THREE people email me to 'make' a deal! LOL AND that deal is that they will purchase tickets to our currently running BHRR/DiD Hockey Raffle Fundraiser in exchange for me posting new pictures of the dogs! Let me think about this…..UHMMMM! OK! YOU are on!!! Let the picture posting and raffle tickets sales go on! 😀

Perhaps, it might make others consider participating such that we can raise much needed funds NOT just for BHRR yet also for another Ontario GD Rescue – DiD(the oldest operating GD Rescue in Ontario at that!). Each penny that is raised is so desperately needed by both of our organizations and please, please, please do consider participating. Even if you are not  a Hockey Fan or would be able to attend the game on April 2nd yourself, purchasing a raffle ticket or two or three; MAKES a great gift for another!

These are fantastic tickets – 100 L, a Parking Voucher is included PLUS a very generous $25 pre-dinner for 2 at P.J's Quigley's on Greenbank in Ontario has been donated by Linda Price. We shall be selling Raffle Tickets until March 9th, 2011 @ 9:00 PM EST.

 

 

ISO: Temp Foster Homes from March 9th, 2011 – March 23rd, 2011 for if all goes well, I might be able to have my first vacation in almost 6 years. Please email if any of our approved foster homes are available and interested in assisting. Sean plus wee ones go on vacation twice a year while I stay here to love on dogs plus horses and this could be my first opportunity to not only have a vacation yet a family vacation in almost 6 years myself!

In honor of Gwennie, the Founder of BHRR, wishing her a most wonderful and special of birthdays today – February 3rd, 2011

If you believe in BHRR; enjoy all the blog updates, pictures, open houses, GD hikes, Gwennie novel posts, her educational articles plus links; please make a donation in support of her rescue efforts. This fundraiser shall run through until 11:59 PM today – Thursday February 3rd, 2011

This blog post was made without Gwennie's awareness, so imagine her surprise when she sees this later today!

You can help ease her stress and concerns a bit today about always worrying about money to save those in need of the programs she has worked so hard for. You can help ease her stress and concerns a bit today about coming up with funds for food and other essentials for the animals. You can help ease her stress and concerns a bit today about the mounting bills for BHRR. Together let's make that BHRR 'chain of success' for Gwennie even more strong today!

Email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org, PayPal (account gwen@birchhaven.org) or even call Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and make a donation on to the Birch Haven Rescue account with your Visa, Mastercard or Amex. A receipt will be mailed to your attention. As Gwennie states so often, there is no amount too small.

I recently asked Gwennie what she wanted for her birthday and not once did she mention anything for herself. Always her family, friends or animals. Help us make a birthday very special today for Gwennie by making a donation to BHRR.

Total Raised to Date$385 & 14 Days of Dog Food & New Logo for Behavoural/Training/Gwennie's Dog Boot Camp Programs
*PayPal took $1.03 in fees

Gwennie's BHRR Believers & Supporters:

Anonymous
Sean
Mason*donated his bi-weekly allowance
Kinsley*donated her bi-weekly allowance
Alex & Karen
Global Pet Foods – Kanata – 10 Days of Dog Food
Simone – On BHRR's Potter Bills @ Kanata Animal Hospital
Lisa – 13 KG bag of Natural Balance Dog Food
Mary
James – Bag of Dog Food
Jan & Her Boyz
Michelle
Luanne of Rusty Dawg Pet Products

Today was 'WINTER WONDERLAND' Day at BHRR on our almost 148 acres after receiving 20 cm of snow and 10 more cm on the way! Below are two pictures! I will post all the individual pictures on the dog's own blogs ASAP. I was out with them myself on three different occasions for about an hour each time. WHAT a blast of a day! Now, that nighttime has come, the temperatures are dropping and the snow is turning more to ice pellets. Time for some nice warmth in front of the fireplaces and snuggles!


BHRR's 'WINTER WONDERLAND' Day! – February 2nd, 2011 – Name the dogs? LOL

Now, that things are becoming a bit more settled at BHRR, if any of our approved BHRR Volunteers are willing to take a BHRR animal for a Playdate, day trip or play day; here are the February 2011 Dates/times available:

Friday February 4th – Between 4 PM & 8 PM
Saturday February 5th – Between 8 AM & 4 PM
Monday February 7th – Between Noon & 8 PM
Tuesday February 8th – Between Noon & 8 PM
Wednesday February 9th – Between 9 AM & 4 PM
Monday February 14th – Between 4 PM & 8 PM*DO YOU WANT TO BE A BHRR Animals' 'Valentine' today! 🙂 😉
Friday February 18th – Between Noon & 8 PM
Monday February 22nd – Between Noon & 8 PM
Wednesday February 23rd – Between 9 AM & 4 PM
Friday February 25th – Between Noon & 8 PM
Saturday February 26th – Between 8 AM & 4 PM

 

*Note: BHRR's 'Big' Ben is NOT AVAILALBLE at this time for Playdates. New Arrival to BHRR on January 29th, 2011*
 

Please email if you are interested in helping give a BHRR animal more social experiences plus a great time!

Below are two photos from when I had BHRR's Hailey at the Vet on January 17th! Isn't she just precious!!!! No picture shall ever really capture her beauty plus lovely spirit! Her eyes….I keep going back to her eyes. AND her ears are so soft. Almost as soft as BHRR's Ava Marie. 🙂 AND….BHRR's Hailey is now officially AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION! She is one Great Dane that I am going to miss very much. She has travelled a very long way in such a short time and her potential is unlimited. Thank you BHRR's Hailey for touching me so deeply and wonderfully. 🙂

AND how could I forget to post just how much she loves her back scratches plus tush massages! LOL

Re: her obedience, she is just flying by! She also knows to give 'one paw' and then 'give the other paw'. 🙂


BHRR's Hailey – January 17th, 2011 @ KAH – 3 years of age

 

I brought BHRR's Hailey to work with me today and now that I am on a break, I am going to update her blog! 🙂 She weighed a lean, muscled and lovely toned 45.4 KGs(99.88 pounds).

There have been so many great comments about how glossy and shiny her coat is, how social and friendly she is. BIG hit!

She was also microchipped today.

Her Vet visit went awesome, a very healthy plus happy girl! I took some pictures with my phone and will post ASAP.

BHRR BOD Member Barry's 'Special 30th Birthday Request for BHRR' –

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services Board of Director Member, Barry Cole is celebrating his 30th Birthday today. Here is his posted request:

"Can't believe I'm 30 today!! Not that im expecting presents but would appreciate Donations to www.birchhaven.org help a GREAT rescue continue to do their amazing work!!"

Will keep a running public total of all monies raised in his honour to continue to help animals in need of BHRR!

Thanks in advance for the consideration!

Total Raised to Date: $165 – PayPal took $2.34 in fees

 

Barry's Birthday BHRR Buddies:

Stephanie
Chelsea

Mason*donated his bi-weekly alllowance
Kinsley*donated her bi-weekly allowance
Carbon/Digby(Mary)
Suzanne & Chuck
Barry
LT & Lil Linus(Jan)

BHRR's Hailey has a Vet Appointment set-up for January 17th. I would like a final medical sign-off on her before officially placing her up for adoption as early as January 18th, 2011. She has been AWESOME to have here!!!! Fully integrated, playful when it is time/ok to be and calm when needed. Gentle, trustworthy in the house and has been a true pleasure to get to know! She is so versatile that she will do great in a home that is ft, pt, semi-retired, retired etc. She is now confidently expressive in the appropriate manner and has just flourished under the guidance, structure and leadership given to her at BHRR. She is quick and effective about her 'correction' to other dogs and her interpersonal 'diva/princess' space issues have long since left the building! She would do best in a home with another dog; sex is not important. Right personality fit as always for our BHRR animals is what is most important.

I have added pictures #7 – #9 to her slideshow. Pictures just do not do this black beauty any justice! Her coat is so glossy and shiny, and her eyes are incredible!

BHRR does not adopt out during the XMAS season due to our position that it is not in the best interest of a new addition being added during such a busy, exciting and somewhat stressful time for many. Our XMAS Shutdown period for this year is from Saturday December 18th, 2010 to Monday January 3rd, 2011 inclusive.

OK! New pictures of BHRR's Hailey! Thanks to 'most' people LOL for being so patient! Pictures #2 – #6 have now been added to her slideshow and these are from December 5th, 2010. She is a lovely almost completely black female Great Dane(yes, she looks lab like with those natural ears etc. and we are very aware of the byber she comes from) and so very soft to the touch. BHRR's Hailey is fully housebroken, crate trained, has been totally integrated with all but 4 of our Great Danes – Tain, Bronson, Maestro and Bleach and this shall come as we have been very busy with BHRR's Storm and BHRR's Potter, not to mention getting Lexy back to her Breeder plus other rescue, family and career matters.

She is very playful, possesses excellent manners – recall is almost solid, takes treats quite nicely and though I would still like to see more weight plus muscle tone on her; she is getting there! Her birthdate is listed as October 22nd, 2007; so she has just turned 3 years of age. We had been originally told that she and Lexy were 2. No matter to us! She could be 9 years of age or 9 months, makes no difference to BHRR.

I have to obtain a current height on her and her vaccines were given on May 14th, 2010 – Rabies, DAPP, Bordetella plus Lepto. BHRR no longer gives Bordetella or Lepto and has not in many years and her Rabies plus DAPP are not due until May 14th, 2013 as BHRR gives these vaccines every 3 years once dogs reach her age. She also had a HWT done and is now on Sentinel. I am enjoying getting to know her and it should not be too long before she can be placed up for adoption as to date, she is proven to be quite the well rounded Great Dane. We shall see what I learn as she ends her honeymoon period. 😀

She has a bit of a 'couch' getting on fetish and we have been working on the 'no leather rule!'. She is a very happy girl, despite all that she has gone through and she LOVES LOVES LOVES her outside 'play' and 'free' time. She can be seen running and running and playing! In the house, she understands the 'no play' and is quite the charming lady! Her coat is becoming so shiny and she rarely makes a sound. AND those eyes….sigh…as I tell so many of my Behavoural/Training Clients and Adopters…"DO NOT LOOK INTO THE EYES" LOL For you can become quite lost and sigh….BHRR's Hailey's brown eyes are GORGEOUS!

I know that she misses Lexy yet she is kept very busy here with training and by the other dogs and she is settling in well. She is a great car traveller too. To date, this girl is showing a ton of potential. She can be a bit 'flighty' when it comes to affection yet that is understandable based upon the abuse of her former home. She is a stronger personality than Lexy in many ways and derived 'power' from telling Lexy what to do and when to do it yet when Lexy was not around; BHRR's Hailey was a bit lost. Interesting relationship the two of them had and I separated them often so that they could both learn to stand on their own two feet and that Lexy could also eat and drink at will and that Hailey could also learn to love her own company and that it is ok to have 'alone' time. What was happening is that BHRR's Hailey 'felt' she had to step up on her own home to take care of those that she could and like all dogs that try to do this; was not being very effective. She is much happier with rules, routine, guidance, consistency and a firm, understanding, guiding plus loving manner/hand at BHRR under the correct human leadership roles that Sean plus I give her. She does not try to dom over any of the other dogs here yet she is also not a wall flower and will not allow others to run all over her. NICE balance!  She has clear expectations given to her with clear communication without the fear of any negative reaction should she do something inappropriate. She is just blossoming under this leadership plus bonding relationship that we are creating at BHRR for her. She is learning sharing and that it is ok to make a mistake. If my gut tells me right, this is a very special girl with tons of potential. I want to see what else lays beneathe her surface for she has many layers……..I am only scratching that surface with her right now.


BHRR's Hailey – December 5th, 2010 – 3 years of age

On December 2nd, 2010; BHRR's Hailey weighed 45.9 KGs(100.98 pounds).

In the AM of Wednesday December 1st, we were contacted by a person from Golden Retriever Rescue, Quebec who also works for several women's shelters. Two Great Danes were in need of urgent help to enable a woman to be able to leave a very dangerous and violent domestic abuse situation. All I can truly say that what happened next was nothing short of incredible. There are studies that have indicated that up to 48% of women will not leave an abusive relationship due to their concern about their animals. 🙁 So, we mobilized immediately to see if BHRR could step up to assist.

We sent word out through our BHRR network that includes our BHRR FB Group and it was only 28 minutes later that we were able to commit to these Great Danes. 28 Minutes!!!! We had two approved Temp Foster homes(and so many other people sending supporting words, emails, voice messages, offering to cross-post and willing to go through the application process to become a BHRR approved home) on board to help these Danes plus their previous Owner. We received 7 offers just in that time frame alone from such kind and caring people offering to temp foster. AND at this time, we had no idea where these Danes were as in distance or their medical plus emotional state, their colour etc. FOR at the end of the day, what we are known to say is, 'IT DOES NOT MATTER'! Reputable/quality rescue is about helping the next one in need. We knew what was most important – that they needed help; that their previous Owner needed help; that if we did not help; they plus their previous Owner were in a very dangerous situation or that they also could have been pts. We were made aware that they were 2(turns out that they are 3 yet no matter!), spayed, female and had demonstrated sweet calm temerperaments with no known human bite history. What BHRR prefers to do wherever possible(not always feasible due to distance sometimes of these requests and that we would then have to organize transport to BHRR) is bring any new addition direct to BHRR so that we can formally behavourally/emotionally and medically assess/evaluate the animals. Our protocol does state that all new additions ASAP must come to BHRR.

The person that contacted us was so worried about this situation(space in women's shelters are not easily come by) that she offered to make a donation if we could commit. I wrote them back saying that while BHRR appreciates monetary assistance(we receive no corporate, provincial nor federally support); we are assisting because we just have to and that her offer stressed to us just how urgent this is and HOW caring she also was. BHRR declined to take any form of monetary donation in this matter.

So, what was planned is that BHRR's Lily Belle and BHRR's Ava Marie would go to BHRR approved temp foster homes and BHRR's Lexy plus BHRR's Hailey would come to BHRR. Due to the urgency of this situation; we needed to get the animals and the woman out as quick as possible; so the person from rescue went to get the animals yet the police had to then be called for the man kicked BHRR's Lexy in the head and the woman then became undecided about leaving herself. What then ensued was a very stressful and worrisome time to try and get all out safely.

By 2 AM on the Thursday AM, Danes plus the woman were safely removed and by 4 PM on Thursday December 2nd, I had both Great Danes in my arms. Also, during this time, it was the closing day of our 3RD Annual 'JUST IN TIME FOR XMAS' Online Auction, I worked a 7:30 AM – 4 PM Hospital shift and was dealing with several other matters on my plate including a BHRR Pending Adoption and doing a hv for another Rescue plus a hv for BHRR! YET, it all came together and this is one of the best examples EVER of that 'chain of success' of people pulling together to make the difference in the lives of others!!!! THANK YOU! THANK all of you!!!!

Early on Saturday December 4th, BHRR's Lily Belle went to her temp foster home – miss her yet she is going to have a blast for she already knows this home – and unfortunately, due to the tragic loss of BHRR's Storm on Saturday; we no longer had need of BHRR's Ava Marie to be temp fostered as we had that 'one' spot now at BHRR. 🙁

BHRR's Lexy & BHRR's Hailey are NOT YET AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!!!