BHRR's Aslan – ADOPTED June 12th, 2014
So, many came together to help save this boy and, each time I, think about
how miraculous he was to still be alive to come into BHRR, my heart just soars…(he was dumped at a very high kill shelter and, we did not have room when first asked and, when we did have room a few weeks later, I contacted the shelter, thinking that I was most likely going to hear he had been pts, yet, they saved him hoping that we would have a spot soon! They saw that he had that much potential!). He was to arrive in November and, then had to be quarantined at the shelter and did not get to us to December 7th, 2013. He went up for adoption January 21, 2014 and began to be temp fostered, February 20th, 2014 and, the rest is history!
AND, they were right. So, thank you Rose! Thank you Cheryl for contacting BHRR and, then helping me get the legs of the transport together plus filled AND, thank you to all that gave of their time and gas to get him closer to BHRR. Jenn Dingle, thank you again for your part in helping to transport him!
Thank you to his temp foster mom/dad, Bruce J. Moquin & Holly Surman for doing such a great job building upon the strong foundation created at BHRR. Thank you for being such amazing foster parents and, supporting BHRR. Each dog you have temp fostered for us, has just thrived. BHRR is better and stronger, because of your belief in what we do here!
Thank you to his new forever loving adoptive family, for opening up your heart and home to a BHRR dog in need of one to call their very own AND CONGRATULATIONS!
Thank you SO much Holly for doing this home visit with me also! πŸ™‚
***It was so lovely to have seen BHRR's Aslan in May and overnight and, then again tonight. It really touched me to see how excited he was to see me and, yup, inside I had a tear or two welling up with how happy I am for him!!! I will miss you, yet, you are on to a wonderful new chapter in your life!**

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BHRR's Aslan's home visit is scheduled for Thursday June 12th. We promise to update his blog as we can!

BHRR's Aslan is moving under a PENDING ADOPTION! We will update his blog as we can.

BHRR's Aslan has his special picnic date on Saturday May 24th, and, below are some photo's courtesy of the extremely lovely family that had him for the day! AND, a bit of a blurb about their time with him!

I met up with his foster dad after he had his date and, mentioned to his foster dad what an absolutely wonderful job they were doing with him and, to just cut down his food slightly to get him less plump. He has been garnering some interest this past week and, we remain patient for that right matched forever loving home to find him!

Thank you for bringing Aslan by today.  We had a great visit.  As promised here are a few pics. I’ll send a few more in another email.  
He was a bit anxious after you dropped him off, but we brought him out to the backyard and he was distracted by his mission to pee on all of the plants (and BBQ) πŸ™‚  He had one moment where he was a bit nervous when Andrew came down stairs after his shower, but after about 2 seconds he was fine.  We took him for a few walks today and he had fun sniffing around the neighbourhood and making a few new friends. He was a really good boy and a lot of fun to have for the day.  
Thanks again, Katy & Andrew

IMG_0932 (Medium) IMG_0926 (Medium)BHRR's Aslan May 24th

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I now have BHRR's Aslan back under my care. I met up with his approved temp foster dad earlier tonight. It was so nice to see him again! I have not seen him in months!!! I have heard from the foster dad and three others that, my boy apparently, went on a walk organized by another person who had adopted from BHRR two years ago and did very well. Very proud of his temp foster home for continuing to build upon the strong foundation built at BHRR and, this dog has continued to prove how great he is with cats! AND, lovely to have our outstanding temp foster homes continue to give of themselves again and again to temp foster. This wonderful home has temp fostered three dogs for us to date! πŸ™‚ I updated the temp foster dad on a dog that they temp fostered for us and had been adopted in December of 2011. πŸ™‚ It is always nice to keep our foster homes in the loop on how the dogs they have helped are doing. πŸ™‚

Below are four photo's that my daughter snagged with my iPhone in the car on our way home.

When we arrived home, he was once again nervous of Sean and Mason yet, settled down wonderfully with Mason and, not long after with Sean. AND, the two of them are 'bunking' it tonight! BHRR's Aslan has been glued to my side since I arrived home and with these temps, it is like having a 'fur' blanket….is he ever warm!!

BHRR's Aslan has his special picnic date on Saturday and after that, I will meet back up with his temp foster dad to have him go back to the home to be temp fostered. I gave the home three more bags of food for this sweet boy. He is looking great…a wee bit plump, yet, nothing terrible and, we have dogs in our own home that are also plump and it is a work in progress. As, long as we work to get the weight off and be cognizant of the weight gain, all will be fine. I am constantly managing even my own dogs' food intake etc. to try and keep them at an ideal weight. I am so grateful to BHRR's Aslans' temp foster home for everything!!

I could tell how much he cares for his temp foster dad and vice versa. That is so warm to see…… πŸ™‚ Knowing that our dogs are in the best of hands, is so important and heart touching. πŸ™‚

I know his special picnic date home is excited about seeing him on Saturday!!! He remains available for adoption, and, we remain patient!

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BHRR's Aslan May 23rd, 2014

I touched base with BHRR's Aslan's temp foster home recently to see how things were going and, if they needed anything plus to make arrangements to get him to his special picnic date. πŸ™‚ I will take some photo's at that time to update his blog. πŸ™‚

Here is what they sent back on May 10th:

"Will be sure to give him an extra good bushing.  He has been shedding like crazy along with the other two here. Gotta love spring lol We are good to temp foster him again after his date, just let me know around what time and we can plan to be home. Thanks"

 

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! πŸ™‚ 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! πŸ™‚ 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! πŸ™‚

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!!! πŸ™‚

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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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Here is a small update from BHRR’s Aslan’s approved temp foster home!

“As for bhrr Aslan,Β  he is fitting in well with the dogs and cats.everyone who has met him is in love!! “

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….. πŸ™

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,Β  – 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! πŸ™‚

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! πŸ™‚ In just 14 weeks! πŸ™‚

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. πŸ™ 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! πŸ™ 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.Β  So, I will post as I can and, thanks to all that follow the blogs!!! πŸ™‚

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

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Here is an update from BHRR’s Aslan’s approved temp foster home from February 23rd, 2014:

Hi. Gwen,Β 

Just a note to let you know he is settling in well. He ate all his breakfast yesterday and today, last night for dinner he needed a little cheese encouragement to eat all his dinner lol

Some pictures for you as well, he is enjoying sunning on the deck.

Also got a good run in the snow yesterday. πŸ™‚

bye for nowΒ 

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With the impending bad weather system approaching, BHRR's Aslan is going to his temp foster home tonight. He has been such a great dog to have here! He has come way way way far in his journey of rehab and, such an affectionate boy!

 

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! πŸ™‚
**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

BHRR’s Aslan shall be going to his own approved Temp Foster home as of the 21st of February. πŸ™‚

*WE ARE STILL IN A FOOD CRISIS!!! WE ONLY HAVE 5 DAYS LEFT πŸ™ πŸ™
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!

BHRR’s Aslan is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION AGAIN!

In deeper conversation with this possible future adoptive home, unfortunately, there are members of the BHRR BOD do not believe that our r/q organization is the best matched fit group to consider approving to place one of our dogs into their place. We had no issues with waiting for the home to submit a landlord letter per our adoption contract, and, the home has a current pet that is not utd on vaccines at this time and, were going to be proactive on that front moving forward.Β  Additionally, in further deeper review of this application, the one person is a Student and per our adoption processes, we do not adopt out to students. They reside in a very small apartment, and, this may or may not have been in the best interest of BHRR’s Aslan. Sincerely wishing the home all the best, for they do have a lot to offer.

BHRR’s Aslan is moving under a PENDING ADOPTION! We will update his blog as we can.

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 β€˜BREAKING BILLS BAKE’ Online Auction Fundraiser
*Items do not need to be baked until the Online Auction is over. πŸ™‚
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. πŸ™ With being in a food crisis, BHRR’s Angel Noelle’s amputation and, BHRR’s Blooms’ gas bloat. πŸ™

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 β€˜angel’ contacted Gwen and, asked if Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabiltition(BHRR) could assist. BHRR immediately stepped up and another β€˜angel’ came to her rescue and took her from this very bad place as β€˜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.

Β 

 

BHRR’s Aslan says he is ready to make his BIG announcement! HE is now AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!!!

YAY!

He can go to a home that works ft, pt, from home, semi-retired or retired. He is another very versatile BHRR Dog! πŸ™‚

He will need a home that will be patient with him in new surroundings, especially with men, and, treats will be your biggest ally. He may not take the treat from the ‘stranger’ yet, with every offer and conversation had with a stranger with him around, he will get that much better. He wants to be loved and he does not want to be nervous, yet, he can still have a moment or two of being unsure and worried and how you handle things, is how he will react. You use a quiet ‘calm’ or ‘safe’ word and ‘touch’, and, then passively ignore, he is just fine.

He is not worried with all men, yet, every once in awhile, he can still be a bit concerned. He has DONE so well in this area, and, where he is now, it is something that can continue to be fostered via great experiences, being set-up for success with his right matched forever loving home. If pushed, his reaction is to run away. He is ready to take this next step and has done really great on all of his play dates plus play visits to date.

For those that have inquired about him being a guard dog, BHRR does NOT adopt out guard dogs. This dog is going to go to be adopted to a right matched forever loving home that will positively build upon the strong foundation created at BHRR to continue making him the best dog he can be….AND, he is one mighty fine boy! πŸ™‚

He is soooooooooooooooo affectionate and can be very playful outside. He is always so happy to see me and, it makes my heart just blip. πŸ™‚

He can go to a home with another dog that is that right matched personality fit – male or female does not matter and he, has gotten along with every dog he has met to date. He was a bit leery of the BHRR Purse Puppies yet, now, he is more fascinated with them and, does avoidance when they come by with their wee shark teeth. πŸ˜‰ OR, he can be an only dog yet, he would have to live in an area where there was an excellent doggie network for him as just as we need our own social circles, he should too for his mental welbeing and happiness.

He has proven 100% reliably trustworthy in our home and is housebroken.

It has been such a delight to have this boy be with us! πŸ™‚

*WE ARE IN A FOOD CRISIS AS OF JANUARY 5th, 2014 – 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!

The pathology is back on BHRR’s Aslan’s skin mass. GREAT NEWS! πŸ™‚

It is a benign cyst! YAY! The Pathologist thought that it was likely secondary due to an old penetration wound prior to arriving to BHRR.

AND, he is recovering wonderfully from his neuter.

So, in another week or so, he will have an exciting announcement to make! πŸ™‚ He has been a real gem to have here and, other than the brushing of his tail, he is beginning to really enjoy being groomed. πŸ™‚ He tolerates his tail and feathers. πŸ˜‰

Below are two photo’s from our traditional XMAS Eve photo shoot at BHRR! πŸ™‚

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BHRR’s Aslan – December 24th, 2013

*WE ARE IN A FOOD CRISIS AS OF JANUARY 5th, 2014 – 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!

BHRR’s Aslan was neutered on Friday January 3rd, 2013. When he was being prepped for surgery, an area that was shaved discovered a small growth around his belly button area.

In examining the area, a lot of ‘pus’ came out and a pustule was thought to be what this growth, lump was. In doing a FNA, it is not pus or debris, it is far more ‘organized’ in matter and cellular make-up and so, we have sent it off to Pathology for diagnosis. Better to be safe than sorry! In conversing with the Vet, they do not believe it to be anything serious yet, for peace of mind, we all agreed that the best thing to do is to send it off for review.

His neuter went textbook and BHRR’s Aslan has been bouncing back from his neuter really well. He weighed 37.5 KGs(82.5 pounds) and, I still would like to see him with more weight on him…he is still a bit on the thin side and ever so active here. Eating is not his top priority!

He has been doing so well with all that he meets. Was a bit nervous with the one male Vet yet, not terrified…..YAY! πŸ™‚

Such a lovely soul.

Some photo’s below. πŸ™‚

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BHRR’s Aslan – sedated and getting prepped for his neuter – January 3rd, 2014

BHRR’s Aslan’s bw is great and his HWT was negative! He is all good to be neutered tomorrow! Keep him in your thoughts! He is making remarkable progress in re: to his worry and fear of men and, in another couple of weeks(time to recover from his neuter plus more rehab time), he will be placed up for adoption! πŸ™‚ GO BOY GO! πŸ™‚

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BHRR’s AslanΒ  – Day of Transport to BHRR – You can see his poor nose…. December 7th, 2013

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. πŸ™‚ 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.orgΒ 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!

BHRR’s Aslan UPDATE & Short Video Below:
He got to hang out at KAH today. He had a lovely, if short visit with Auntie Margaret, and weighted 37.1 KGS(81.66 pounds). I would like to see about another ten on him, not too much more than that….
He is either a small male Leonberger or a mix and for that right matched forever loving home, it shall not matter.
He had a heart worm test, presurgical bw, was microchipped, had a manicure/pedicure, full exam(aced!), obtained his next tube or revolution and had his vaccines.
He began his de-worming protocol when he first arrived to BHRR and a fecal shall also be performed.
I asked some of lovelies that I work with to give him treats and that was huge for him! His lean manners are really good, he knows some of his basic commands now and, he will be scheduled for his neuter in about two-three weeks time.
So many compliments on what a nice man he is and, how great his coat looks!
He was still worried about any men he saw yet, much better and his reaction is always avoidance. He will overcome that in time.
A good day! πŸ™‚

VIDEOAslanDecember172013

The Leonberger Standard per the Dog Breed Info Center for those that wish to learn even more! πŸ™‚

Description
This is a very large, muscular working dog. The head is rectangular shaped and deeper than it is broad. Males’ heads are generally larger than females’ heads. The skull is somewhat domed. It has a black mask and a rather long muzzle. The black mask should not extend above the eyebrows; the mask can be up to the eyes or above the eyes, but never over the entire head. The large nose is always black with clearly outlined nostrils. The lips should be black, and are usually tight and dry. In males with a very majestic head, slightly loose flews and sometimes slightly open hooks of eyes are often found. Loose flews collect saliva, so some males might drool slightly. The teeth should meet in a scissors or level bite. The medium-sized ears are triangular in shape, fleshy, hanging flat and close to the head. The tips of the ears are level with corners of the mouth. The neck is muscular and strong with no dewlap. The medium to long, water-resistant, double coat comes in lion-yellow, golden to red, red-brown, sand, cream, pale yellow and any combination of those colors, always with a black mask. All colors may have shorter, medium or long black tips on the outer coat. There may be a small stripe or white patch on the chest and some white hairs on the toes.Β There is always discussion about the amount of white allowed. FCI standard states “like the palm of a hand,” but it all depends on whose hand you are referring to. The Leonberger’s thick mane creates a lion-like look. The mane in males can take up to 4 years to develop; the mane in a female is less obvious than in a male. Rear dewclaws are sometimes removed. The front and rear legs are feathered. The bushy tail hangs straight down. The pads of the feet are black. They often have webbed feet.

Temperament

The Leonberger has a lively nature. It is brave, intelligent, steady and affectionate. It has a sweet expression. Loving and steadfast, stable and calm, the Leonberger just loves everyone. Its intelligence is extraordinary; its loyalty and love for its family is unparalleled. He has a friendly personality. A well-balanced Leonberger will be highly trustworthy and have incredible patience, even with the most obnoxious children. With most of these dogs, if the situation becomes too intense, instead of showing any aggression, the Leonberger simply walks away. Most of these dogs can take bad behavior in their stride. The Leonberger does not respond very well to harsh training methods; training requires patience. Owners need to be firm, but calm, confident and consistent. Proper human to canine communication is essential. To be an excellent watchdog requires some special training. Often called a gentle giant, the Leonberger is serious, eager and willing to please, responding well to training. The Leonberger can get along with other dogs.Β  Socialize and train early, as this puppy will become a very large adult. Teach your dog to respect humans by training it not to jump, to heel on the lead and to enter and exit all door and gateways after the humans. The Leonberger is more active and coordinated than many other giant breeds.

Height, Weight

Height: Males 28 – 31 inches (71 – 80 cm)Β Females 27 – 30 inchesΒ (61 – 75 cm)
Weight: Males 118 – 170 pounds (54 – 77 kg) Females 100 – 134 pounds (45 – 61 kg)

Health Problems

As with all giant breeds, they are prone to hip dysplasia and other skeletal diseases/disorders. Also eyelid defects and bone disease. Possible behavioral problems.

Living Conditions

The Leonberger is not recommended for apartment life. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard. They prefer cool climates and can live inside or outside, but mostly prefer to be wherever you are.

Exercise

This breed does not need a lot of exercise, however, it does need to be taken on a daily walk. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog’s mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human.Β They love to be included in all family outings and are very adaptable to most any environment. They LOVE to swim, hike and be trained to pull carts and sleds. If you plan to have your Leo pull carts or hike, one has to wait until the dog is grown. It is not recommended before the dog is about 18 months old.

Life Expectancy

About 8-9 years.

Grooming

Weekly brushing is needed. The ears must be kept clean and the teeth cleaned when needed. Bathe only when necessary. Some de-matting is required to avoid hotspots. Wetness and damp/wet weather conditions are responsible for the hot spots. Check behind ears, feathering on legs and tail for mats. The Leonberger is a seasonally heavy shedder; during this time the dog should be brushed and combed daily.
Origin
This breed was established in 1846 in Leonberg, Germany, in the region of Wurttemberg by the German breeder Heinrich Essing from a crossing of the Newfoundland, St. Bernard, and the Great Pyrenees. Heinrich Essing’s goal was to create a breed that would closely resemble the look of a lion. Leonbergers have been owned by many royal families including Napoleon II of France, Empress Elizabeth of Austria, the Prince of Wales, Emperor Napoleon II, Bismarck and Italian King Umberto. In the nineteenth century many Leonbergers were imported to Russia. Like many breeds, the world wars almost brought it to extinction. By the end of World War II, only a few dogs remained. In 1945, several Germans gathered some of the few remaining Leonbergers and re-established the breed. Today the Leonberger has regained his popularity in Europe. The official standard was set in 1949. The first Leonberger was imported to the United States in 1971. This versatile breed has been successful for guarding livestock, search and rescue, obedience, water rescue, tracking and as a family companion.

Group

Mastiff
Recognition
FCI, KCGB, NKC, NZKC, ANCK CKC, CKC, APRI, ACR, DRA, NAPR, AKC

 

For those who would like to learn a bit more about the Leonberger Breed. πŸ™‚

History
The background of the Leonberger is a very clouded one, full of mysteries and turbulent tales. Many things have been written, sometimes accounts contradicted others, and little proof has been given for many of the stories. It was not until the early part of the 20th century that litters were registered and records were kept. The breed was officialy recognized by FCI in 1955.

To start at the beginning, we go back to the early years of the 19th century. In Leonberg, a small rural town 20 km northwest of Stuttgart in Wurttemberg (Germany) Heinrich Essig was born in 1809. He turned out to be a very ambitious man, and he became a very prominent citizen, elected to the town council and possessing a strong talent for marketing and trading.
His greatest passion was for all kinds of animals and his house (Schweizerhaus) was more like a private little zoo, with all kinds of dogs, foxes, turkeys, peacocks and so on.

This account was written of Essig’s creation of the Leonberger : “Amongst his dogs there was a black and white Newfoundland female (Landseer type). He crossed her with a longhaired Barry-dog (St. Bernard) he owned also. He crossed them for 4 generations, out crossed again with a Pyrenean Wolfhound (Pyrenean Mountain Dog) crossed again with a St. Bernard”. There is, however, no proof that this is in fact what was done and that there were no other dogs involved.
Essig started breeding in 1846, which is the date we now attribute to be the birth of the Leonberger.

In an article in the “Illustrierte Zeitung”, dated November 1865, there is mention that Essig had 17 years of breeding experience. In another paper (Illustrierte Handwerkers Zeitung Nummer 10 Jahrgang 1870) Th. Hering writes a story of a dog breeder in Leonberg (Essig) where Essig claimed that he had been breeding dogs for about 20-24 years. In the same article, the dogs mentioned are Leonberger or Gotthard dog and a picture was published to show to readers what they looked like.
Large impressive dogs were very much in demand and there were years that Essig exported more than 300 dogs. The St. Bernard was very much in favor, but had become very rare. In fact, after a catastrophe in 1855, there was only one couple left at the St. Bernard pass. These dogs were crossed with Newfoundland females from Stuttgart, other local dogs, and English breeders crossed them with Mastiffs to obtain a more powerful head.

So, it is quite logic that sometimes Leonbergers were announced as a new breed with the old St. Bernard blood. We see pictures of what appear to be Leonbergers under the names Berghund, Alpine Mastiff, St. Bernard, Leonhardiner and so on. However, to add more confusion, sometimes St. Bernards were presented with these same names. By the way, according to records by the Monastery at the St.Bernard pass it seems that the name St. Bernard was used for the first time at the Show in Birmingham in 1862. As member of the town-council Essig was not only able to promote the town of Leonberg but could also do a lot of marketing for his dogs. By donating Leonbergers to royalty and other celebrities like Garibaldi, the Prince of Wales, King Umberto of Italy, The Czar of Russia, and Empress Elisabeth of Austria, he became very well known and he could easily sell more of his dogs. At one time, Empress Elisabeth possessed 7 Leonbergers.

It was quite normal that a successful businessman was imitated. Since a written standard did not exist, and therefore one could call every dog a Leonberger, many more breeders or dog merchants went into business. A wellknown trader in Leonberg was Mr. Burger;Β  Mr. Bergmann from Waldheim, promoted his Caesar in papers and magazines, and Mr. Otto Friedrich, from Zahna, publicized his Berghund Moulon.
As sales of Leonbergers flourished, the official cynologists tried to ban these breeders from shows because they believed it was unethical to produce dogs only for the money.

Today we know that there must be more dogs involved than the ones with which Essig claims he started the breed. Modern genetics tells us that is impossible to create the Leonberger from the 3 breeds as described. In old photos we see black and white dogs, black dogs, red or yellow colored dogs–all said to be Leonbergers.

Later a relative,Β  the nephew Christian Essig, took over the kennel.
Essig died in 1887.
It was in the early 1880’s that some breeding rules were written by Kull (a painter from Stuttgart) and a Mr. Boppel from Cannstatt. He was a judge and also a breeder of St. Bernard.
It was after Essig and Burger in Leonberg died that the first Leonberger Clubs were founded.
The Leonberger Klub Berlin began in 1891 and Klub fur Leonberger, Heilbronn in1895. These two clubs probably did not exist for very long, because in 1895 the “Internationaler Klub fur Leonberger Hunde Stuttgart” was founded

**credit to the Leonberger Union**

 

 

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. πŸ™‚

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)

UPDATE: He is settling in well yet, is extremely fearful of Sean and Mason. πŸ™
We will resolve that through time. He will learn that they are big spoiling teddy bears.

UPDATE: BHRR’s Aslan is safe at BHRR and BHRR is now officially closed for intake until further notice. Thank you to all involved helping to get him to BHRR! Jenn thank you for the Xmas tug toys for the doggies and the collar for him!

Our foster homes are full, we are full and even though we have two dogs under a pending adoption at this time and, one more dog to possibly go under a pending adoption plus the very sad loss of HQD in the not too distance future; we will remain closed for intake.

We will advise when we are taking in new additions!

So many in need yet, we need to remain committed in quality and standard of care to all that we currently have under our authority. We continue to network and save and transport animals for other r/q groups. The latest being a wonderful Dogo(actually a Boxerx that we saved and then transported to a rescue with room last night).

Thanks – VIDEO below……..

BHRR’s Aslan Video

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! πŸ™‚ 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! πŸ™‚ THANKS to all that have donated so kindly, generously and the animals thank you too! πŸ™‚

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

UPDATE: we have been informed that the Leonberger scheduled to come our way tomorrow has KC.

He will be quarantined at the shelter and when he is healthy, he will have his transport rescheduled.

Awhile back we were contacted to see if we could assist an ~3 year old Leonberger in a shelter. O/S. We did not have room in our programs at that time and very sadly, had to decline. πŸ™ πŸ™  I did add him to our 'waiting list' of dogs hoping to arrive to BHRR and, miracles do happen for, we had one adoption, we have 5 more possible pending adoptions and all other dogs ahead of him on our waiting list had been sold by their previous owners instead of continuing to wait patiently for a spot in our r/q programs.

So, I went back to the contacts for him to offer assistance(yet, felt that he most likely had been placed or pts) and, it turns out that he was still looking for r/q Rescue assistance and we have not looked back!

He is scheduled to come to BHRR on November 13th, 2013 and below is the poster that I created on him(BEFORE I had a name befitting of him).

I am calling him BHRR"s Aslan. THANKS to all for their great input on names…. πŸ™

NOT YET AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!!!

Leonberger