Author Archive
Puppy Report
A lot has happened, I hope I can remember it all. First of all, I called everyone who adopted puppies and heard back from everyone …and everyone had WONDERFUL things to say about their new family members! I was thrilled. Everyone seemed to be doing well and really falling in love with their new dog. Some families reported that potty training was nearly complete, others that it was still in full swing. Both of these extremes (and everything in between) are normal for puppies. They are small, and subsequently their bladders are small and therefore they need to pee frequently. Add to that the lessons they have to learn about holding it and indicating to us when they need to go and it makes sense that this first lesson is a difficult one for some pups.
The families with resident dogs reported that their puppies had inserted themselves into their pre-existing dog packs with confidence, some even trying out their dominance at this young age! (more…)
Saving Annie
Before we took in pregnant Annie (then named “Martha”) as a foster, she was rescued by the Fulton County Illinois Humane Society. We just received a note from a volunteer who cared for Martha while sheltered at the Humane Society of Fulton County, Pam K. …
Martha (aka Annie)
After reading all about Annie and her puppies I knew I had to let you know how much this story touched me. You see, I knew Annie when she was still “Martha” and so thin you could count every rib on her body. She was so thin but had this big belly. And she was so weak. We were worried she would have strength to deliver the puppies. I am a volunteer at Fulton County and do the Petfinder write ups. I was so thrilled when HELP rescued her. We knew she didn’t have much time before she gave birth and were so happy we were able to get her out of our shelter. A shelter is no place for newborn puppies with all the noise and the germs. We did try to build up her strength and gave her extra food. She did manage to put on a little weight but was still
Letting Go
Hermes
Today my son cried and cried at breakfast. He said through his sobs, “I don’t know why I am crying!” I think he is missing his puppies. No matter what I said though, he denied it but I’ve seen this before. He needs to grieve their leaving and I don’t blame him. I miss them too, but my missing is much less intense. He was their primary playmate and they were his. He, being an only child, really enjoys having little ones who are ready and eager to play with him. And they were there for him, without requiring anything more from him than his company. Of course he misses them. I could try to convince him that having the pups in their new homes is best for everyone, I could remind him of how unavailable I was during their last few weeks with us, I could try to avoid his grief by telling him we’ll get more (more…)
Up Next on Canine Fostering
Sweetie, our summer foster mama
As the story of Annie and her puppies comes to a close, do not fret! I will continue posting but the focus will change. I will give updates on the puppies (with photos!) and Annie and how they are doing in their new homes. I will also be posting on our previous fosters and how they are doing today, 8 months later. And finally, I will be including more information about our dogs (3 of which are rescues) as well as training tips.
So, keep checking in! We will also be hosting another dog family shortly…of course.
Getting Back to Normal
The dust has settled and the smell of bleach is fading as we are deep into cleaning the house. Amazing how many things get put on hold while the puppies are here…cleaning being one of them. I haven’t heard from any of the puppy families, always a good sign. And I did hear from Annie’s new home and while there are some challenges, things seem to be going as expected. It is harder to place an adult dog, especially in a home with another adult dog, than it is to place a puppy. Puppies are all about adapting to their surroundings while adult dogs come with their “personalities” in place, making it a bit harder for them to adapt. But with clear and consistent leadership, they can do it.
Last Four Pups Go On Their Way
And so the final four left yesterday…Little Cupid, Vixen, Dasher and Donner. I was sad but business-like once again. We let the pups romp outside with the family that took Cupid and that made a good memory for me of transition.
Cupid
To you Cupid I wish for many long and lazy nights spent chewing a good bone, tired out from a day of playing with your doggy sister and from good, long, Cesar-inspired walks. Your new family will love you and more importantly, keep their attention on what you need to live a full life as a dog.
Vixen
Vixen, to you with your spunky and happy personality I wish for you many silly games with your new little family member. I hope you have lots of doggy play-dates, long romps in big spaces, and I hope you learn to catch a frisbee. I know you will be a beautiful jumper, your tiny 8 week old body already so athletic. Be a good girl and learn the rules of your new home. Make me proud.
Dasher
And Dasher, my beautiful boy, enjoy your new family – full of love, children and other dogs. Learn the rules of the house and teach your owners some new tricks. Get your doggy brother into shape and get your people out walking more often. And enjoy all the love the children have to give.
Donner
And finally, dear little Donner. You are so loved, I can see it in your new family’s eyes. You will grow up to be a beauty. Keep your happy tail wagging sweetness. Enjoy all the things life is going to give to you. Make new friends that honor the friendship between you and my son…for you were his favorite playmate, and his pride and joy. Remember how to give paw (both the front AND back!) and never ever forget how to dance.
