Around the farm.....

Everyone is relaxing today.  We have had such a busy few months that all of us need a break from time to time.  Mr. Beagle loves HIS sofa!  I have to push him out of the way in order to sit down.  Ofcourse when you have a farm and lots of animals you never really get a break, but today I tried to just do only what was necessary.  Errands took most of the day!

Nikki has decided that all of those little dogs running around the house are just too much for her.  She has taken over my chair - Now, let's see.... Beagle has the sofa and Nikki has my favorite chair.  I guess I have officially become the crazy dog lady. 

Yoda and Cobalt decided my dust cloth is the perfect tug of war toy!  They are really growing and will be going to their new homes soon.  They have gained 3 pounds in just two weeks and their skin is healing.

The donkey paddock, stall and new hay storage area are almost finished.  We have to get the fence back up and do a bit more work on the stall, but all should be ready in a week or two. 

Ginger before grooming

Ginger after grooming





We have a busy adoption schedule this week, so please follow us on facebook.  It is easier for me to post a quick up date on fb than blogger.  Check out the location and times!

Hurricane Issac Update

Well, we took a big hit from the storm.  Most of  you have probably seen our facebook page and know what we have been dealing with for the past week.  But if you have missed it, I'll give you a brief update.

We had a lot of water, a downed tree that took out fencing and gates, and flooded kennels.  But, thankfully everyone is safe, the water is down, and we have started the repair/replace/rebuild process.

We were fortunate to have a national rescue group, American Rescue Corp, take 8 of our large dogs!!  This was such a blessings.  We have lost our large exercise area and we have no place for the dogs to run and play.  The yard around the kennels is still muddy and the daily rains are not helping!

 

During the storm and for a few days afterwards we had 40 dogs/puppies in the house or porch!  It was quite an adventure.  We were unable to get out of the area because all the roads going north, south, east or west, were under water.  It was three days before we could get to town and get some of the dogs moved into foster homes or other rescues. 

It was such a wonderful experience working with Animal Rescue Corp.  They drive across country to help in disaster situations or other large scale animal rescues.  Please visit their facebook page and tell them how much we appreciate their help.  If possible, make a  donation. 

I probably sound a little disjointed tonight, but the past week has been extremely stressful and physically demanding.  I have been running nonstop and "eating out of the window" (aka drive through fast food) way too much!  I hope to be able to slow down just a little tomorrow. 

I can't believe it is JULY already!!!

Wow, July is here.  Where has the time gone?  Why am I always behind in posting news?  Our Facebook page is updated almost daily, but I just don't seem to have time for blogging.  I have also been frustrated with blogspots new format.  Just when I was getting somewhat proficient, they go and change things.  This is not good.

The economy is taking a toll on the animals.  As people move to downsize, the pets are often the casualities.  In recent weeks, both Tangihumane and the Louisiana Humane Society have seen a rising number of abandoned pets.  Combine that with the owners who want to surrender their loved dog or cat and you have the perfect prescription for an overwhelming situation.  We are at capacity and can only take new dogs when we get adoptions.  We have many 2 to 5 year old dogs that are sweet and good within the pack but they just aren't getting a family to consider them.   I cannot create a situation where they are at risk.  Our quarantine kennels are full so until we can move a few dogs into homes, we are at a standstill.  This breaks my heart.

I stopped to feed two dogs along the side of a rural road today. They looked as if they have not been out there long. They were skiddish and wouldn't come very close but they were hungry.  So, I fed them and I'll return tomorrow with more food.  I'll keep feeding them until I have space.  Fortunately the road is not a dangerous highway, but any road can be fatal for a dog.  I'll just have to do the best I can and pray they stay safe.
 

Our little Coco is recovering from double knee cap surgery.  She was born with both knees out of place so she learned to walk on her front legs to avoid pain.  Dr. Scott Smith did a fantastic job of realigning her knees!  It will take time for her to understand she can walk normally.  Coco will begin swimming as part of her physical therapy.    Once she has completed therapy she will be up for adoption.  However, she will need a very special home with no children and no large pets.  I will keep you posted on her progress.

Copyright Protection

Please be advised that all material on this blog is copyrighted.  A recent misuse of our photos was brought to my attention.  NO MATERIAL, either photos or texts may be used without written permission from the author.

It is a sad day in the world of rescue when these measures are necessary.

Homes are urgently needed!!!

I've had a wake up call this past week.  Separating dogs that weight over 40 pounds is just too much for me at this point in life!  I've been dragged across the yard, broke a finger, and chased a dog around the pasture as it was going after my goats.  I am wayyyyyy too old for this.  I am alone with the dogs most of the time so when the dogs have to be picked up or forced to do something, I am the one who has to do it.  I just cannot continue the physical part of large dog rescue.  I hate to admit it, but at 60 I just cannot afford to break bones and I am not as strong as I was in my forties.   I need to place our big babies as soon as possible.  I have needed to do this for quite a while, but having a neighbor politely complain about the Walker hounds barking so much, solidified my decision. So I need everyone's help.  We have some fabulous big dogs who just need a family to love them. I am afraid if I don't reduce the number and size of dogs, I may have to quit all together.  I don't want that to happen so I will change my focus to smaller dogs and special needs dogs.  I currently have 2 vision impaired Poms, two crippled poodles, a 13 year old poodle, and a mystery mix with severe hip issues!  

I'd like to find homes for 6 of our large dogs by the end of May.  I know we can do this if I get everyone acting as our salesmen!!!  Come of folks, talk to everyone you know and tell them about our dogs.  We will reduce our adoption fee to just $50.00 for these dogs. However, our requirements do not change.  Fenced yards are a must!!!

We are at capacity so we cannot take another dog!  We need to move some out so we can help others.  Until we get 6 or more out, we are not able to take another dog.

Thank you all for your help.

Lots of adoptions, but many great dogs still need homes!

We have had quite a few adoptions of young dogs and puppies.  But, we have some awesome adult dogs that need a family to love.  Every dog in our rescue has a story. 

Crystal was found at a construction site almost a year ago.  She had numerous scrapes and scratches and a wound to her back leg.  Her knee cap was damaged and she needed surgery to remove bone fragments from the joint.  Today she is all healed and has no problems with her leg.  She is energetic, a bit of an alpha female, but just loves attention.  During her recovery she was in a foster home with children.  She is crate trained and will easily transition to housetraining again.  She has been mostly an outside dog only sleeping in a crate indoors at night.  She is a curious dog and will search a handbag to find all sorts of stuff!!  While she never chewed up my things, she will take every item out of a purse just to see what is there!

Willow is a young dog with great potential.  She is a playful dog and likes being in charge of everyone.  She is also an alpha female who plays well with submissive females and all male dogs.  Willow was found with four puppies about a year ago.  She may have been house trained at one point in her life because she will not mess up a kennel run.  Currently she is allowed to play in the yard most of the day and then sleep in a crate on the porch with the rest of her pack.  She would make a great inside/outside dog for someone who wants a dog to alert them to possible trespassers!

Our sweet Marie just hasn't had a family of her own in months!  She had 5 beautiful puppies and all but one of them have a family.  Now she needs a family.  She is housebroken and crate trained.  Sometimes she will fuss a little about being in the crate, but it doesn't take her long to settle down.  Most of the time, a soft bed and a treat is enough to make her a happy camper in the crate!  Marie gets along with all the dogs, but she doesn't like cats! 

How about a Walker Hound?  Our funny man, Zero, needs an aspiring young hunter to train him.  He would make a great companion dog who can and wants to hunt squirrels.  He is quite a character.  One of his favorite activities is to dump his water bucket and throw it in the air like a ball.  He has a very expressive face and quite a walker hound voice.  He is a tall walker hound, all white, with tan spots on his ears.  He needs someone who can give him a great place to run and be a hound!

Puppies - Puppies - Puppies

Wow, we have three separate litters of puppies ready for new homes.  Our beautiful golden/lab mixes are 6 weeks old and need families to love.  These babies are Snow's litter.  Snow was shot in the leg and had a broken jaw when she came to our rescue.  We didn't know she was pregnant!   There are SEVEN yellow puppies.  Why not get a yellow pup instead of a yellow duck for Easter! 

The three Bassett mixes are ready to go as well.  They are absolutely the cutest little long eared babies.  Gus, Abbie, and Ellie want a family.  They are between 6 and 8 weeks of age.

Scooter and Bianca are terrier mixes that will stay small.  They are doing great in their crates and love to play chase through the living room.  We have estimated their age at 10 weeks.  If you want a playful small breed, then these two are just what you need.

Come meet all of these puppies on Friday, April 6th at the Denham Springs Petco.  We will be there from 5 to 7 pm. 

On Saturday we will be at Stines in Walker from 10 to 2!

Call your friends and family and let them know we need to find great homes for these special babies.

SAVE THE DATE - SATURDAY - MARCH 31ST

Calling all volunteers!!!  We will be participating in the Tangi Pet Expo in Ponchatoula on Saturday, March 31st.  This is an all day event so we could use some extra hands!  The Expo will be held at the Ponchatoula Recreational Park, 19030 N. Hoover Rd., Ponchatoula from 10 to 4 pm.  We have to be there around 8 because all participants must be completely set up by 9:30.  We are taking two canopies, a large pool umbrella, tables, chairs, coolers, and as many dogs as possible.

If you can help with set up or for a hour or two during the day, please let me know. 

We will be taking our latest puppy arrivals!  We have three rat terrier mixes that are so very cute!  In addition, we will have several of our large breeds.  We really need to find homes for some of these dogs as they have been with me for almost a year!  Ofcourse, their time is never up with us, it is just that we need to make room for other dogs that need help.  Jupiter, Willow, Cybil, Boudreaux, and Zero are just waiting for someone to love!

Ginger

Also, I'd like to introduce to everyone, Ginger.  She is a another blind Pomeranian.  Ginger was in a shelter in St. Martin Parish.  When I was told of her issues, I knew she would do well here.  Precious also has very limited sight, so I am familiar with what a blind dog needs.   Ginger is 6 years old, heartworm negative, and walks well on a leash.  You just have to let her take the lead and follow her.  She is up for adoption, but she will require a special environment.  Ginger needs a home with no small children, and one where someone is home most of the day.  She is loving and as long as she can hear you coming, she does well.  Blind dogs need to know you are there before you try to pet them.  All it takes is a lot of talking!!!! She loves her crate and enjoys walks outside.

Precious

Precious is not up for adoption.  She will remain a sanctuary dog.

In Memory of Jobe

This story of a great human / canine bond came to me through a friend. It is not a story with a fairytale ending, but one where a rescued bully breed had the best possible chance of a good life.  My friend told me about her friend's struggle to save a dog's life.  The dog was rescued from a shelter then months later underwent heroic efforts to correct a medical emergency.  Here is Jobe's story as told by Melissa Perkins.

Jobe was approximately 2-3 years old and an American Bulldog. He was rescued  back in June of 2011. He was underweight and in bad shape. Very friendly with all other dogs and children and just an all around great dog. His foster mom Twyla fell in love with him.   They only had a few months together but it was true unconditional love. She fought for him until the end when he died in her arms. He underwent emergency surgery just a few days before to remove an obstruction in his stomach. Sadly, it wasn't enough to save this gentle giant. He is greatly missed and will always be a part of his mom.

A contribution to Swampy Paws Canine Rescue was made in memory of Jobe by Melissa, Twyla's dear friend.  Our thoughts and prayers go with Twyla and her family as they mourn the passing of their canine companion, Jobe.

Soloman - Gunshot SURVIVOR!!!

I write this post with bittersweet emotions.  I am so very thankful that Soloman is doing great and will be able to leave the hospital later today (weather permitting!).  Yet, I am so very disappointed that our vets at Dodge City Animal Hospital had to receive EVEN ONE NEGATIVE email or phone call.  Rather than put them through any more grief, I will not ask for any donations through facebook.  We will also no longer post anything other than the dogs up for adoption via facebook.  I don't know that makes people think they can just unload negative comments WITHOUT any information. They don't know the countless times Dr. Smith and his staff have helped me without charge!!!  They don't know the countless times they have discounted their services.  Come on people - they have a business to run, bills to pay, staff to pay, medicine and supplies to buy.....  and the list goes on.  I am so very happy to be associated with them and our other vets that we depend upon to give our rescued babies the best of care.  Please forgive my rant, but I am just stunned by the lack of civility on social media sites.  I will not tolerate it.  I'll let a scared dog snap and growl at me because it has an excuse.  But, I will not let people attack my friends and supporters when they know NOTHING.

Okay, I'm done ranting - I am taking a deep breath and will now move on....

Earlier in the week, I received a call about three dogs abandoned when the owner's moved out.  Fortunately a neighbor fed and watered them until help would be found to take them.  We now have three new "guests" -  Snow White, Miley, and Star are all mixes that will need a home soon.  Miley is in the worst shape of the three.  She has demodec mange, a staph infection, and an eye infection.  But that doesn't damper her spirits.  Her playmate, is a solid white pit/bull terrier mix with a sweet disposition.  She only has a few health issues at this time so I expect she will be ready for a new home as soon as we can get her spayed.  There is also a 10 to12 week old mix terrier puppy, Star, that just needs a few weeks of good food and no fleas.  I will have pictures of Star later.  She is so active that she will not sit still long enough for a photo. 

Storms are all around so I may lose power soon.  I just wanted to rant about a few things and let everyone see our new arrivals.

Blessings to all...

Two of the Busiest weeks EVER!!!

 

It started with our Dexter escaping from his new home.  This little Blue Heeler was so bonded to me that I was afraid he might have a hard time.  Well.... he managed to escape on Wednesday, the 22nd, on a huge farm (40 + acres).  The new owner called me in a panic.  He had been trying to catch him for over two hours.  By the time I got there, Dexter had disappeared.  I called and called for over two hours - I drove up and down the road looking for him.  I finally decided to go home, make some flyers, and try to get as many people in the area looking for him as possible. 

Once the flyers were completed, I headed back to the ranch to start giving them out.  When I pulled up the drive, there was Dexter sitting by the gate.  I was so relieved that tears started flowing.  That little bugger had stolen my heart and I was so afraid he was gone forever.  He just didn't realize that his new home was the perfect place for him.  The new owner and I spent an hours just sitting on the porch visiting.  Fortunately, he wasn't upset with Dexter and just the dog to be realize that the ranch was now home.  I led Dexter back to the kennel where a big bowl of food was waiting. 

I have received a couple of pictures of Dex and texts from the owner letting me know all is well!!!

After all of that drama, I hurried back home to get things in order before church.  I got everyone fed, kennels cleaned, and a bit of something to eat then left for church.  When I returned home, just over an hour later, Snow had a present for me!!!  A beautiful newborn puppy was in the crate -  I quickly relocated her to my spare bathroom where I had prepared a place for her to have babies.  By midnight we had 7 beautiful puppies.  Mama Snow was a recent rescue from a cruelty case.  Someone had shot her in the leg and broken her jaw. 

That very same day, I received a call about four horses in a field and two of them were down.  I met Tangihumane and a deputy from the Sheriff's office at the scene.  I wasn't prepared for what I saw.  The two downed horses were still alive, but were just living skeletons.  Those poor horses were starving.  I called Dr. Scott Smith and he rushed to the location.  Dr. Smith recommended that the two downed horses be put down.  He administered the shot and the horses died peacefully, no longer starving to death.

The owner has been charged with two felony counts of aggrevated cruelty to animals and two counts of simple cruelty to animals.  These are serious charges and it is unlikely the owner will ever see his horses again.  We picked up the two remaining horses the next day.  They are now happy to food and clean water every day!

A few days later I get a call about two little dogs that had been left in a home for two weeks when the owners were arrested for drugs.  A family member had been going over them to feed them, but once the power was turned off, she could no longer care for the dogs.  Stella and Frank are two tiny little love bugs!!!  They are between 5 and 7 years of age and get along with everyone.  They need permanent homes so please spread the word.   They are crate trained and at one time were housebroken.  However, after two weeks with no one in the home, they have regressed a bit.  It won't take long for them to remember that inside it NOT the place to go potty! 

To add to all of this, it is time to get the garden ready for planting.  We have been working on our square food garden and raised beds getting them ready for spring planting.  I have included a picture of last year's garden to keep me inspired!

Puppies - Puppies - Puppies

Last Friday night we had a tremendously successful puppy adoption.  THIRTEEN puppies found homes!  It was a memorable evening.  There were 9 fluffy puppies and 2 lab mixes that were adopted within the first 60 minutes!  People were waiting for me when I arrived at the Petco.  I only wish we had that amount of excitement about our more mature dogs.

At this very minute I have a 7 year old Basset hound, a 5 year old Beagle, a 5 year old pit mix, a 13 year old terrier  and a 2 year old terrier/beagle mix surrounding my computer chair.  I have a ask one of them to move before I can get up! 

The Bassett hound is Duke.  Some of you may remember him from last year.  He was a stray found by a wonderful lady who took care of all his medical expenses, including the expensive heartworm treatment.  He stayed with me during his recovery time and was then adopted.  Unfortunately new his owner's job changed and he no longer had the time to spend with Duke.  He called to ask if he could return him even though it had been almost a year.  I am so happy he called us rather than try to find Duke another home.  We will make sure Duke's new home will be the right place for him.  If we don't find a good fit, then Duke will stay here.

Jasmine will be another sanctuary dog.  She is one of 5 dogs that were abandoned in a vacant house. We were able to find homes or other rescues for all of the other dogs, but Jasmine is a special case. "Jazzy" puts on this "pit bull" bark, but doesn't bite. (She has very few teeth left!) She can be a bit intimidating, but all she wants is a treat.  I think she learned to act tough so she would get a treat.  When new people come to the house, Jasmine meets them at the door with her bark.  A treat makes her wag her tail and if you walk off without giving her another treat she barks again.  She will play this game until you run out of treats.  Once you say you don't have any more she wanders off to her bed!   You may notice the lack of hair and pink color of her hind quarters.  We don't know what caused her skin irritation, but it is much better.  We have her on a special diet and anti inflammatory meds when needed.  Because her front teeth are completely worn down (the same goes for Duke) the vet said she has suffered with allergies a long time.  The state of her teeth shows that she has been biting at her skin for years.

HUCK IS BACK!!!  This sweet little pit mix was adopted two weeks ago.  The family found a nicer home to rent, but it doesn't have a fenced yard so they had to give up the pup.  He looks great.  While he was with them he was well treated and definitely well fed!  Our sweet little puppy now weighs 18 pounds!  He is absolutely the most handsome puppy I've seen in a long time. 

If you like Chopin and Mozart, you will definitely love BEETHOVEN!!!

This guy is such a gentleman.  He is low key and just likes to hang out.  At 13 years old, he is in excellent health and just wants a new forever home.  His family had to surrender him to us because the new owners of their apartment complex terminated the pet policy and they could not afford to move.  His family was so distraught when they brought him to us.  We were their last hope.  No other family member could take him and no other rescue agency had room.  But, when I heard his story I just could not say no.  Maybe part of my love for the "seniors" is because I am a senior myself!!!  I want to be considered a valuable member of society and ( I am projecting just a bit) I think senior dogs have earned the right to have a good retirement too!!

It took a day or two for Beethoven to warm up to his new environment.  At first he just wandered around a bit.  However, when I brought in the new beds, he was excited!

Can't you just feel the excitement!!!  Doesn't he look like he just can't be still because he is so happy.....  I told you he was LOW KEY....

Now everyone is happy ! No more sharing required!!



Jasmine



We had run out of beds for the dogs.  We had a few smaller ones, but the mid size beds were just worn out.  Today I went shopping at Ross' and found a couple of beds just the right size.  I felt like Goldilocks while I was shopping the dog isle - this one is too small, this one is too big, but this one is just right...



Marie



When I got home and unloaded the beds, the dogs were so happy!!!  They immediately claimed their spots.  Our newest, "guest", Beethoven, took some time exloring his choice.  At first he just sniffed it and then would walk away.  Then Precious decided to check it out.  Because she has very limited sight, she would paw at it and bark.  Finally Beethoven decided that was the one he wanted.  It is a bit small for him, but that is the one he selected.

Mr. Beagle

Precious

Beethoven

Beethoven

 

New Homes found for 4 of our dogs!

Yahooooo....Huck, Fiona, Blaze, and Buster have new homes.  Huck, Fiona, and Blaze found homes Friday night, and Buster went for a get acquainted visit at his new home.  They will be ready for him in two weeks.

I spoke to Huck and Blaze's new families today and all is well.  The families are so happy with their new furry friends. 

Jade's new mom sent me a picture showing her latest grooming visit.  Our dear Jade now has a cute little top knot with a bow.  It is so good to know she is doing well. 

We also had a new arrival on Friday.  Beethoven is a 13 year old Yorkie/Terrier mix.  His family had to surrender him because their new landlord will not allow pets.  It was a very traumatic situation for them, but they just could not afford to move.  However, they are happy to know he will stay with us until we find the perfect fit.  He is such a low key dog.  He just enjoys following me around and laying by my chair. It is as if I have another "Jade".  I will get pictures up soon.

One of our dogs, Amber, has severe hip dysplasia and will need surgery soon.  We are going to need to raise $500.00 for her vet bill.  If anyone would like to help Amber, please call Dodge City Animal Hospital, 225-664-6441 to donate towards her account.

We also want to give a big thank you to Tractor Supply.  They donated a large dog house, tons of canned food, and other supplies.  Please support the Hammond store and tell them how much you appreciate what they are doing to help us.

Cruelty cases are keeping me busy.  My most recent call involved 18 dogs in a dungeon like situation.  I really wanted to just take all the dogs away from him, but I didn't have a place to put them.  Instead I had to work the with man and get him to take the adult dogs to his hunting camp and the 4 month old puppies had to have better living conditions immediately.  I went back the next day and he had complied with everything I told him.  I just wonder what people are thinking when they daily go feed dogs who are living in filth.

We are making a difference because concerned citizens are speaking up, an advocate is showing up, and law enforcement is writing them up!!! 

Many thanks to the Livingston Parish Sheriff's Deputies who are willing to give animal abusers a summons. 

A REMINDER -

THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF LA

LIVINGSTON CHAPTER

MONTHLY MEETING

TUESDAY, JAN. 31

6:30 PM

Bass Pro Meeting Room

Denham Springs, LA

There will be a brief business meeting followed by a Pet First Aide presentation.



SOOKIE - A SPECIAL LITTLE CAT

About two weeks ago I received a call from the Livingston Parish Detention Center.  A sweet little cat showed up with a badly mangled hind leg. They had called several agencies and no one would help them so they turned to the Humane Society of Louisiana - Livingston Chapter.  I was not able to get to the cat and the vet before closing, so I asked if of one of them would take the cat to the vet for me.  Ofcourse, this was a Friday afternoon at 4 pm!  A wonderful lady deputy took the cat to Dodge City Animal Hospital for us.  The news wasn't good.  The leg was in such bad shape that it needed to be removed. Dr. Einck wanted to stabilize her over the weekend, start antibiotics and perform the surgery the following Monday.  I didn't hesistate to help this injured animal, but it did wipe out the money we had raised in 2011.  Sookie's initial exam and surgery was $438.00.  So, we are back to a zero balance!!!!  But, just hearing her purr and seeing her able to walk pain free was worth it.  We will just have to work harder and have more fund raisers.

 It will be two weeks tomorrow since the surgery and "Sookie" is doing great thanks to her foster mom, Joi.

Because she is now a "tripod" she will need a special environment without dogs and a home that will keep her inside and safe.  She isn't having any difficulty with jumping and normal activities, but we want to cautious.

Sookie is a young kitty, probably less than a year.  She is still recovering, so her spay date is 3 months away.  However, she can go to her new home at any time.