Running Pawtners

Doggie Dash 5k

2010-10-27T10:09:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, one of my favorite dog races took place, the Doggie Dash 5k. I love this event because-

1. The Hill Country Running Company, who puts it on, loves dogs and go out of their way to make the event dog friendly.

2. The dogs get to wear timing chips. (how cool is that!)

Kent and I ran with Bella and our foster Eva. Bella took 1st masters (dog over 6yrs old) and was 5th over all while Eva ran a respectable sub-21 mins and was about 7th overall.

We met our good friends and fellow GSP lovers, Paul and Meredith Terranova. Paul ran with their sweet GSP, Flyer. He ran a sub-18 min 5k and was 2nd over all.

We saw my one time foster, Juno (fka Junebug), with his mom and dad, Matt and Laurie Allen. Juno was super spry and so happy to be there. She and Bella exchanged kisses and butt sniffs.

We met some great people and super fast dogs (or some great dogs and super fast people). Amico Williamson ran with his dad, Derek Williamson, for a sub-17 min 5k. I don't care who you are, that is some CRAZY speed.

As always, we all had a great time and are looking forward to attending, again, next year!

Prevent A Litter San Marcos Petfest 5K

2010-09-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

The San Marcos Pet Fest 5K & Fun Run/Dog Jog is coming up soon on September 25, 2010!
You can register online at www.signmeup.com/71151 or get more info at http://preventalitter.com/petfest.htmlPre-registration for the 5K is $20.00. Late Registration (after 9/18) for the 5K is $25. The Fun Run is $15.00.The Pet Fest 5K and Fun Run will be run along the beautiful San Marcos River trails. The 5K Run/Walk will begin at 8:00 a.m. The all ages Fun Runs will start at 9:00 a.m. The all ages Fun Run has 2 distances to choose from– 1 mile and ¼ mile. Well behaved dogs on leashes no longer than 6 feet are welcome to participate with their humans. The awards for the 5K are Paw Print medals. Dogs even have the opportunity to win a medal. All proceeds will be used by PALS of Central Texas to provide pet spay/neuter services to those who need assistance.

(picture is of Eden and I at the 2007 Petfest 5k)

Junebug Adopted and Bark in the Park

2010-07-16T06:31:00.001-07:00

Ok, so the biggest news is that Junebug has found her forever home. She has gone to live with a great couple who have decided to call her Juno. She is doing great and loves her new home. Yay Juno!

Second news, Bark in the Park Austin is this weekend. It sounds like a great event. You know me, I'm always looking for dog friendly events to take the pups to. Here is the website

http://www.barkintheparkaustin.com/ . I hope to make it out there with at least one of my pups. Right now, I have 5 at the house! Two are fosters.
Here is a picture of my GSPX, Bodie. He is a year old a real sweetie. He loves to romp and play with Bella. He just got neutered so no running, yet.

2nd Annual (maybe) Doggie Du

2010-06-08T06:39:00.000-07:00

There were twice as many racers, this year. Everyone looked ready with the dogs in their life jackets and the humans with their goggles and swim wear. Some racers, wise from last year's swim effort, brought toys and treats in hopes to entice their dogs around the swim course.

Pictures of the participants getting ready to hop in the water.

In the water and going every which way.

Another wave getting ready to go. There were 4 waves in all.

Cricket and I rounding the corner and getting ready to head over the finish line. Cricket loves to race!

Junebug updates

2010-06-01T05:33:00.000-07:00

June and I have been going on regular runs. She is doing great and is finding a love, like most Austinites, for Lady Bird Lake. Her favorite activity, beyond running and playing with squeaky toys, is riding in the car. Unfortunatly, on one of our pre-dawn outtings to LBL, last week, I rolled the window down too far and June, not realizing it, fell out. Everyone is ok, though (whew!).

I've taken some more pics but it is hard to get good pictures of black dogs.

June stealing the squeaky toy away from Luna.

Leave It!

2010-05-17T14:36:00.000-07:00

Junebug is doing great on the trail and in the home. Our biggest problem, on runs, was "leave it". She wanted to jump at every runner, cyclist, dog, car or bus that passed but a few "leave its" and a pop with the leash and she now knows that is not proper trail etiquette. We get so many compliments on her good manners. We are currently working on getting Junebug the Good Canine Citizen award. Junebug is sharp as a tack. She has most of the necessary skills, already, but we are working on "Bye bye, Mom". She gets a little anxious when I leave the room and she is in an unfamiliar surrounding. Who wouldn't but with patience and our trainer, Cathy's help, I have no doubt we will conquer that skill, too.
As much fun as we are having Junebug is doing all of this, learning to run and channel her energy through exercise and working towards her GCC, so that she is ready when her forever family comes to call.

Junebug is Learning to be a Running Pawtner

2010-05-10T08:54:00.000-07:00

Junebug is ready to learn and ready to run. She just got back from 6 weeks at Triple Crown Dog acadamy where she learned how to be a well behaved girl. Now, that she is back she is ready to learn how to be a well behaved Running Pawtner. We are into our second week of running and we are up to 6 miles. We have learned to "leave it" when other dogs run by and "leave it" when buses drive by us.

She is a great little runner. She doesn't pull too hard on the leash and is constantly looking back at me as if to say, "am I doing this right"?

I'm looking forward to taking her out on the greenbelt, soon.

Fun For The Fur Friends -TC PETFEST

2010-03-31T09:38:00.000-07:00

If you are free April 10th then you have to come out to the Triple Crown Petfest. I've been before and I'm going, again. This is just about as much fun as you can have with your canine.

There will be dogs dancing, dogs racing, dogs bobbing for balls, dogs, dog demos, lectures along with BBQ tasting, moonwalk for the kids, live music, food and all kinds of fun..fun..fun!

Aussie Rescue will have a booth. Stop by and say, "hi"!

For more info check out their site http://www.triplecrownpetfest.com/index.htm

Run Like The Wind (with your pawtner)

2009-12-02T14:42:00.000-08:00

The Schrodi Memorial Training Fund and the Lee Mannix Center for Canine Behavior are hosting the second annual 5K Run, 5K Walk/Run and long distance runs of 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours. Well behaved dogs welcome at ALL EVENTS.
The fund is overseen by the Animal Trustees of Austin and teams with the Lee Mannix Center for Canine Behavior to train owners how to handle and manage their dog(s) and their behaviors in a reward-based style. The Schrodi Fund helps owners who can't afford top dollar training, be able to train and keep their dogs.
This chip-timed course is a mulchy, soft, flat 1K loop trail totally canopied by trees. It is directed by the world-famous cook Sam Voltaggio. Registration is via active.com or mail-in race application.
Long Distance runs begin after the dogs have cleared the course at 11am. Fully stocked aid station with room to rest. Parking available in site, carpooling is encourged. For more information, contact Sam at cscsammy@yahoo.com.
Silent Blind auction will run until noon. You make a blind bid on the item and place it in the box. The highest bid at the end of the day is contacted to come claim their prize so you need not be present when the bidding closes. Lots of great items are up for Auction (dog items, electonics, artwork). Donations still being accepted for items until Dec 3rd. Contact Becky for more info on the Auction bgarciatx@gmail.com.
Saturday December 5, 2009

For more info go to http://www.schrodifund.org/Run%20Like%20the%20Wind%20info.pdf

Bella Races the Doggie Dash 5k

2009-10-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

Kent and Bella took 2nd place in the 6 and under division, today, at the Doggie Dash 5k!

The race was put on by Hill Country Running Company which was voted one of Austin's dog friendliest businesses by the HCRC. Honestly, I can't remember who the race benefited but we went out to support a race that was dog friendly and to meet other dog running enthusiasts. We had high hopes that Kent and Bella would win the race until we saw that Jamie Cleveland and his dog Mollie would be running. Kent put up his best effort and with Bella's help they stayed close to Jamie and Mollie to pull off a 19:07 5k and second dog overall.
Zoe, myself, Cricket and Luna walked part of the course but decided to cut it short so we could watch Kent and Bella run across the finish line. We all had a great time. The course was flat and well marked and there was plenty of swag for the participants. Hopefully, we will see this race happen, again, next year.

Kent singing with the National Anthem while Bella smiles at the camera.

Hanging out after the race.

Jamie and Mollie post race getting water for everyone.

Donkey Dash and Doggie Dash 5k

2009-09-22T08:16:00.001-07:00

I love to support any race that encourages doggie participation. Cricket and I plan on being out there for this fun event!
Sunday, October 04, 2009
8:00 a.m.

Donkey Dash 5k

5k course that starts and finishes at Doc's Backyard. This fast, flat user-friendly course will take you on a tour through beautiful Sunset Valley. There will be two aid stations on the course with water. The finish line will be a welcome site with plenty of food, drinks, prizes, and entertainment for the family! Parking will be available at the shopping center just off Brodie Lane, at the race site.

Doggy Dash 5k

Same course and start time as the Donkey Dash 5k. Categories will be comprised of combined male-female 6 years and younger / masters 7 years and older. Canines will participate with their owners, who are also registered in the Donkey Dash. All aid stations will have water bowls and treats for the canines. All owners will be required to start with a "doggy disposal bag" (provided at the start area) and will be required to pick up after their canine's. The start/finish area and all aid stations will have disposal containers for the bags. Any particpant that does not pick up after their canine will be disqualified from the event results. Canines will be given a separate chip that will be worn on their collar.

http://www.donkeydash.com/

Paws In The Park

2009-09-17T06:30:00.001-07:00

Paws In the Park 2009 Bring your canine companion! Saturday, September 19 at theCedar Park Regional Medical Center Campus1401 Medical Parkway, Cedar Park, TX 78613east of 183A toll road and 1431 - behind Target11:30 - Parade and Dog Costume Contest$5 entry fee includes event t-shirt (while supply lasts) Costume Not required for paradePrize baskets awarded in these categories:most original scariest best interpretation of circus theme prettiest and best owner/dog themeRegistration opens at 11:00 Noon - 4:00 - FREE entry to all the fun!Paws in the Park is an event designed to celebrate dogs in our community. It will feature five Circus rings of activity designed for every member of the family, including your dog.

Doggie Du Dash Race Report

2009-05-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

Cricket and I participated in the first ever Austin Doggie Du Dash. This race consisted of a 375 meter swim (and there were buoys!) and then a one mile run. We all know Cricket can run but I was a bit apprehensive about the swim.

Not because she can't swim...but because I'd never swam with her. They gave every dog a life jacket.

I was kinda hoping they'd give the humans one, too, but no such luck.

We set up our towel and shoes in transition (How cute...Doggie Du transition) then walked around sniffed the competitions' butt.

At 7;30ish we had our pre-race meeting. We were told there would be 2 waves...1-10 then 11-25. We were #14 so we were in the second wave. The waves would be 3 mins apart. At 8am the first wave was called. Everyone eased into the water. The horn went off and the thrashing began. Our wave moved fwd and I heaved Cricket, by her life vest, into the water. I then hopped in after her. "One min till go" I heard. Cricket was trying to swim for shore already. I was trying to convince her to turn around. The horn blew, I called "Cricket" and we were off. The first 50 meters or so, to the first buoy, I thought, "this is going to be great"! Cricket was totally swimming with me. Then as we got up the the first buoy and headed east to the second buoy

Cricket kept trying to swim back to the dock.

I kept having to stop and call her. I was literally hauling her around the course. I have never worked so hard in a swim in my entire life. I stopped at one point to comment to another girl who was having the same problem, "this is not going well".

Thankfully when we turned and headed home Cricket took off like a bat outta hell. I actually dropped the leash and was sprinting to catch up with her so I could grab it.

Outta the water and off to transition. I had to take the life jacket off of her and put on my shoes all while keeping hold of the leash. Once the shoes were on and we took off Cricket was all about the business of running. We were 4th to last out of the water and three mins behind the first group and we passed everyone on the run except for four people and three of those were in the wave before us. Cricket was flying!

We won 1st Human Female finisher and I'm pretty sure we got 3rd over all.

I heard somebody say that there is going to be another one in 6 mos or so. As long as the schedule permits, I'm sure you will see Cricket and I out there, again. We loved it!

First Ever Doggie Duathlon This Sunday!

2009-05-21T07:06:00.000-07:00

Cricket and I are so excited to be participating in our first ever Doggie Duathlon! Sun, May 24th, at 8am, attired in the latest life jacket fashion, dogs and their people will take off in the waters of Town Lake (ugh) to swim 375 meters then out onto the trail for a mile run. If you have nothing better to do on Sunday morning, bring the four leggers and come out to cheer us on!
Here is the link to the info on the Cap Tex website. Make sure to check out the video at the bottom!

http://www.captextri.com/doggie-du-dash-austin.php

Rosemary Update from her Triple Crown Trainer

2009-01-21T11:31:00.000-08:00

"Here are her updates from her trainer! She is doing awesome!"-Triple Crown Coordinator.

Week 1 - This week I met the sweetest German Short-haired Pointer, Rosemary. She loves going on walks - taking in all the scents while her nose is glued to the ground! We chased some birds in the field on the first day I met her. Since then we have worked on name recognition (I call her Rosie to keep it short and simple) and done some basic clicker training. She isn't bothered at all by the loud sound, especially since it comes with food! So far Rosemary doesn't have any interest in playing with toys, but instead will walk up to me and wait until I pet her. Once the petting starts, she doesn't want it to stop! I can't wait to see how she responds to more of the training over the next few weeks.

Week 2 - This week Rosemary has made so much progress! She now knows her nickname (Rosie), and walks on a loose leash especially if she knows she will be rewarded with treats! She also learned to sit on command this week, which she does eagerly. Another thing we have worked on is place, where she stays on a dog bed until she gets the free command. Rosie loves the bed and makes sure that she can keep an eye on me at all times. She is such a sweet dog and a quick learner!

Thanks to Triple Crown for taking our Rosemary into their program. I'm looking forward to future "Rosie" updates!

Fun At The Dog Park

2009-01-04T09:42:00.001-08:00

Rosemary loves the dog park!

Bella loves to chase Rosemary.

Gotcha!

You really think you can catch a GSP?

Now Luna is trying to get in on the action.

Taking a break.

Run For The Rovers Training

2009-01-02T06:07:00.000-08:00

(This information can also be found on the Rogue website http://www.roguerunning.com/ )

Run For The Rovers Training
Posted: January 24, 2009
Join Rogue and Blue Dog Rescue for this free training opportunity! Bring your dog and learn how to run and train better with man's best friend every Saturday morning from 10-11 AM, January 24-March 22. Then, participate in Run For The Rovers on March 22 with your dog.
Rogue coaches will cover how to build up mileage with your dog. Blue Dog Rescue trainers will cover how to run with your dog efficiently and safely. We'll also have tips from veterinarians about dog health!
It doesn't cost a thing, but you're welcome to donate $80 to Blue Dog Rescue at the end of training, if you're happy with what you learned. We hope you'll join us, learn some new tricks, and support Austin dogs!
Note: this is not an obedience school.

To sign up go here .

Blue Dog 5k pic from 2006

Fun Kong Ideas

2008-12-31T11:08:00.000-08:00

I found this today while reading my friend's "How to Keep Your Dog Safe During The Holidays" message. They are nifty Kong recipes. I get so tired of using the same ole scrunched treat or buying the expensive Kong stuffings. If you like to use a Kong with your dog, here are some great ideas. http://dogs.thefuntimesguide.com/2006/02/dog_recipes_for_kong_chew_toys.php

Happy Holidays!

37th Street run with the pups

2008-12-21T18:24:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post to say that there is nothing better than running with your friends and sharing the fun with your pups. A group of us started out at Runtex and ran up to 37th street, enjoyed the lights and then ran back down Congress then home. It was awesome and the pups loved it.

Ready to Run...mble

2008-11-25T12:05:00.000-08:00

My newest foster, Rosemary, aka Rosie, is ready for a new home and new family to love her.
Rosemary's previous life was less than Rosie. She lived with numerous other dogs , was not cared for and given no training or attention. She was wild when she first came to us with no house manners, no leash manners and not knowing a single command.
After a month at my house she is learning "sit". She is crate trained and seems to be fairly house trained. She has not had an accident but I don't leave her in, unsupervised. She loves to run and is up to 8 miles (though I'm sure 10 would not be a problem at this point). She gets along great with other dogs. We spend lots of time at the dog park. She does not get along with cats, though.
She would love to be a playmate with another high energy dog or a running pawtner to someone who is looking for a gal who never complains about the early hour runs, cold temps or a little bit of mud on the trail.
If you would like to meet Rosemary please contact me.
Marlawanda@gmail.com

Pawstock 2008" Peace, Love, Meow, and Bow Wow"

2008-10-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

Music, food, and silent auction!
Sunday, October 19, 2008 from 3:00 PM -8:00PM On the patio Casa de Luna’s El Arroyo Mexican Food Restaurant, 12432 Bee Caves Rd. (FM 2244)

There will be a cash bar, a silent auction and lots of music. Music by Performers: The Therapy Sisters, Mark Gunn, The Summer Wardrobe, Chris Gates, Zac Morgan, Lisa Brown and Pat Reed, and more.
Suggested donation at the door $15 per person
For more information, call 402-9725, or e-mail us at: pawstock@thunderingpaws.org
All proceeds benefit the animals at Thundering Paws Animal Sanctuary.
A non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization
Update on performers and performance times available will be posted on our website. (www.thunderingpaws.org)
Calene Summers,
Calcat75@yahoo.com
Thundering Paws Animal Sanctuary

Rescued from the brink

2008-08-24T20:08:00.000-07:00

I would love you to meet the newest addition to our foster family....Chaco. This little guy is so great. He was set to be eunthanized at Town Lake. I think their thoughts were....who would want to spend the money and energy to save a mange puppy when there are so many puppies out there, who are healthy, and need saving. Well, to be honest, Kent wanted to save this mange puppy and I'm so glad he talked me into it. Chaco is precious. He is enduring being crated in the back, by himself. He waits happily till I am able to take him out to potty. He never whines...he is just the happiest little dog I have ever met. He loves to play ball and or fetch sticks. He plays..plays and plays. I can't describe how delightful this little guy is...you will have to meet him for yourself. I promise he will bring a smile to your face.

Sweet Puppy Looking For New Start

2008-08-16T17:44:00.000-07:00

I was asked to come to Town Lake to check out a "maybe" Aussie X puppy who had been taken out of the adoption area because she had a sore on her back. Once a dog is pulled from the adoption area of Town Lake, the dog can either be taken in by a rescue group or they are put to sleep. I swallowed my fear of puppies (haven't fostered one in 7 yrs) and took this little girl home with me.
She is turning out to be a precious thing, playing with Bella and trying to play with Cricket (Cricket doesn't play with any dog).
Here are some pics. She is ready to go to a new home just as soon as one is found. Feel free to share this blog with others.
We are calling her Piper. She is 3 mos old and will be spayed, soon.

Riley, AKA Koda, Beats the Odds

2008-07-19T19:46:00.000-07:00

We found out before we left for our Ironman trip that Riley's family, who had lost him two months earlier, had found him on our Austin Aussie website. Riley's first name was Koda. He came to Texas all the way from Washington state.
Koda has gone home and seems to be really happy. The family was ecstatic to have their missing family member back. Koda is now microchipped and wearing tags. So, hopefully, next time he decides to roam from home, he will have a better chance of making it back.
99% of dogs who are lost with no identification are never reunited with their families. Koda was lucky. Please make sure to have proper identification on your pets.

Blue Dog 5k Rover Run

2008-06-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

Sat's Blue Dog 5k was well worth the drive and the heat. We got a chance to see all of Cricket's past Blue Dog friends and meet the lady who found Riley at the Bastrop shelter. With out her, he most likely would never had been brought to Aussie Rescue's attention and would have been euthanized. Thank goodness for these wonderful people.

There was lots of water and Gatorade set out before the race in big iced down baby pools. The people drank the water and gatorade in the bottles and the dogs drank the ice water. There was loads of food to eat for both dogs and people. No calories lost at this race.

The 1k for the kids took off at 8am. We had to wait another 30 mins for the 5k. If I could ask for anything, it would be that our race start no later than 8am. In the Texas heat, it gets substantially more miserable the later into the morning you wait for a run to start.

At 8:30 they sang the National Anthem then blew the air horn. People without dogs were at the front and people with dogs were at the back. I wish they wouldn't do that. But, luckily it is a tiny enough race that Cricket and I swung to the outside of the cones and just eased our way past all the walkers and joggers. It always makes me laugh at the number of people who actually take off at break neck speed for the first 3/4 of a mile. You would think we were racing just a mile. Going into the first turn, I could see we had about 10 dogs on our tail and about 4 in front of us. We were neck and neck with this fit looking guy and sorta fit looking Cocker Spaniel. I didn't think the Cocker could hang and sure enough, about 1.5 miles in he and his person starting lagging. I have to admit Cricket must have been nervous about the Cocker because she ran under the guy's leash and popped it out of his hands. Oops! Then this older but very fit looking gentleman darted past us when we had to stop for a potty break. (Cricket gets the Runners Trots) I knew he wouldn't last. His dog was already at the back end of the leash and had one ear popping through from the man yanking on him to go faster. They were done.

Cricket was still on the front end of the leash pulling my bike weary legs along.(I did the Real Ale ride 80 miler plus another 15 on Sat) We passed one guy who said, "That's not fair. Your dog is pulling you". Yeah...not fair for her. She'd be winning this race if not for my slow ass. We were in second now and pulling away from our competition. Just one little Collie mix up ahead. I could see them about a qtr of a mile ahead. I thought, he could stop and walk and would probably still beat us. It was hot and I was miserable but I kept telling myself, "5ks are suppose to suck". Cricket never gave up the slack. She had been doing her speed work (and I'm not kidding here) and she was all about the race. I don't know what she was thinking...she doesn't know, like I do, when the pain is going to end. She was just full force till I said we were done. She is a running machine! We came around for the last 1.2 mile loop and I could see the leader. We were closing the gap! Not to get anyone's hopes up. We never caught him but we got damn close. I'd say we were well within 50 meters by the time the race was done. We finished in a time of 21:10. I didn't wear a chip but I clicked my watch. Cricket was 2nd dog over all. I actually would have been 2nd woman if I had worn a chip. (this pic is of us rounding the last corner. Cricket took it a bit wide)

We got lots of good bootie. Cricket won a $100 personal trainer visit from Lee Mannix and a weekend get away to a day spa. Also, a 1 yr supply of heartworm medicine.

The run was great and well organized. I highly recommend it to those with or without dogs. You don't have to fight the crowds of some of the larger races and they have nice prices for 1st-3rd in multiple age groups.

Its "Run For The Rovers" Time !

2008-05-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Cricket and I are planning on running the 5k and would love to have some friends join us.
(pic is from the run last year. I had only just picked up Cricket a couple of days before this. This year she is slimmer, trimmer and ready to rock the course!)
Details-
Sunday, June 1st 8:30am Williamson County Regional Park 3005 County Road 175 Leander, TX, USA How can you support animal adoption and welfare in Central Texas? Participate in Blue Dog Rescue's third annual 5K, Run for the Rovers! All proceeds from the event (presented by Premier Animal Hospital) benefit Blue Dog Rescue, a local 501(c)(3) non-profit, all volunteer organization working to place adoptable, homeless dogs with forever families. Each four-legged participant will receive a goody bag. All dogs must be spayed or neutered, current on vaccinations (including rabies), friendly with other dogs and people, and be on leashes. One canine per person please! The Kids K will begin at 8:00am and the 5k will begin at 8:30, so bring the whole family plus Fido! Prizes that'll get your tail waggin' will go to the top 3 in each age group, plus the top five canine participants.

Contact email: kathy@bluedogrescue.com
Contact phone: 512-689-6328
Website: www.runfortherovers.org

Riley - What A Sweetie

2008-05-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

Meet Riley, my new foster pup. He is a real sweetheart. He gets along with everyone, dogs, kids and even Jellybean the cat. He loves to go for walks, hang with the dogs at the dog park and chill by your side while your working on the computer (like now). I haven't really taken him out running. We went one mile the other day but it has been so hot in the mornings that I have been a bit hesitant. I'm sure he could be a running pawtner but he doesn't have a huge build up of energy so would be just as happy as a walking pawtner. He is up to date on his shots, micro-chipped and neutered. He would make a great addition to any home looking to add a canine friend.

Eddie Is Home

2008-04-29T08:27:00.000-07:00

Eddie, the ball-crazy Heeler Mix has found his forever home. I'm so happy to report that Eddie had a sleep over this weekend and the couple fell head over heels for him. They have spent their few days, together, chasing balls, running , playing in the water and meeting new canine friends. I think this is going to be a great match! Tyler and Maneesh (Eddie's new parents) have promised to keep us in the loop on how he is progressing. Good luck, Eddie!

Cricket Graduates and a bit more Catching Up

2008-04-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

So Cricket graduated from her obedience class. She did so with flying colors. In class she could "heel", sorta "down", "sit", and come. Outside of class she can "sit" and sorta "down". Her "come" only works when there is nothing more interesting to see/sniff or I have really yummy treats. Here are some pictures of her last day in class.

One of Cricket's classmates, Laela.

Lee does a little training with "Otter" and his person.

Cricket says, "I graduated!"

Up On Top of The World

2008-03-07T06:42:00.000-08:00

Eddie is up on top of the world. He has discovered squirrels.

March 1st Dog Walk At NorthCross Mall

2008-02-21T09:36:00.000-08:00

ON MARCH 1 AT 10:00 AM, 1,000 DOGS AND THEIR OWNERS WILL GO FOR A WALK TOGETHER
Leash up the pups and let's show those Fat Cats at Wal-Mart and Lincoln that we're still doggone mad about their Supercenter at Northcross Mall, and we¹re not lying down!
Remember how we called on thousands of you to join us for Arms Around Northcross? Remember how we formed a one mile wide human circle around Northcross Mall? We did it! And it ignited -- and united -- a neighborhood spirit throughout Austin to stop the Wal-Mart Supercenter.
Let's stand together again! RG4N is calling on 1,000 dogs and their owners to come take a walk around Northcross Mall. Join your friends and neighbors and once again send a powerful message to Lincoln Property Co. Wal-Mart and the Austin City Council that we will never back down.
The Austin Chronicle called Arms Around Northcross the Feistiest Neighborhood Rebellion in 2007.
Let's really make the fur fly on March 1.
CAN COLLECTION DAY - BRING YOUR CANS FOR RECYCLING TO EITHER INFORMATION TENT DURING PAWS AROUND NORTHCROSS.

http://www.rg4n.org/

Most Improved!

2008-02-14T12:45:00.000-08:00

Lee told the class, "that black dog is the most improved this week". Wahoooo! Of course, that could be because last week, she started barking at the beginning of class and the sporadically through out the rest of class.

This week, Cricket only barked a few times and it was mostly when Lee was showing us how to act really pissed off when our dogs don't appropriatly demonstrate "sit to stay".

We are still working on our "sits" and "downs" but last week we learned "The Magic Hand" and "Swing". These are hard to explain but here goes-

The Magic Hand is just you showing your pooch a treat, you turn your hand over so they can't see the treat then move your hand away from their nose. They follow and when they touch your hand you flip it around to give them the treat. To them, it is like magic. Cricket has that no problem but if I try to use the magic hand to get her to walk around my body, I look like I'm demonstrating some sort of weird yoga move. She doesn't get it if the treat goes from one hand to the other then it must just be disappearing which has got to be black magic.

"Swing" she gets. We got to demonstrate our almost perfect example of swing to the class. We were the only dog who could do it! You simply take the treat, stick it in front of their nose and take a step back, leaving the other foot where it is. You look like you are about to throw a ball underhanded. The treat goes back, the dog follows, the treat comes fwd and the dog and treat are suppose to stop by your side. Dog sits...gets treat and you have completed "Swing".

We also showed off our "heel" talents which we practiced all of twice. Cricket gets heel when she only has to do it for 20ft back and forth. That is all that Lee wants us to do, for now.

So, this week, we will be practicing our "sit - stay". Cricket must be in a sit and I keep feeding her food as long as she remains seated. I'm suppposed to do this in 5 sec intervals for one minute then two minute break and back again for 10 sec intervals up to 20 secs. Cricket couldn't even do 5 secs. Her little butt would bounce right off the ground after about 6 treats. This lesson is going to be hard to learn.

Kent came with me, this time and took pics.

Lee works with a student on "down".

Kent works with Cricket on "Swing".

I put on Cricket's work bandana.

Eddie Is One Ball Playing “SHUT YO MOUTH” Dog

2008-02-11T09:12:00.001-08:00

If you are looking for a fun loving, ball chasing, energetic companion, then Eddie is the dog for you. He will play all day but, if you tell him to “Place” will go to his crate/pillow (whatever you have designated as his “place”) until you are ready to play again.

He gets along great with other dogs and is always up for a game of Romp. He is great around kids, never jumping on them, just always waiting for the next game of ball. He does ok with cats as long as they don’t run from him.

He knows basic commands like “sit”, “down”, “place” and “out” (to drop the ball). He will walk, at heel, on the leash if you tell him to but we don’t work on that very often.
Eddie is close to 2 years old and a Red Heeler/Aussie X. He is up to date on shots and has been neutered.

Getting Over Cricket's Barking While Tied Up

2008-01-31T07:26:00.000-08:00

The "seperation" excercise- On Track Days, I like to park 2 miles from the track, run with Cricket to the track and then tie her up, do my workout then run the 2 miles back to the car. The only problem is she barks the whole time. If I have my ipod on really loud, I can drown her out but I don't think it is very pleasant for my fellow track runners.
To help Cricket get over her supposed seperation issue, Lee wants me to go in the backyard with 10 treats and a chair. I tie her up about 2 ft from the chair. I put the treats on the chair. I get up and give her a treat. I sit down, again. In 5 secs, I get up and give her a treat. I sit back down. I repeat this, doubling the time, every time. So, next time it is 10 secs, 20, 40.....and so on. I do this four times in a row. Next day, I go to another spot. Eventually, we go to the track, which is where I have the biggest problem. With this exercise, I'm supposed to eventually go to the track, with my chair and treats, run one lap around...give her a treat. Now, I'm not totally clear on whether or not I repeat this 10 times X 4. That's 40 laps around the track! Also, I'm not sure if I give her a treat even if she barks. What this is supposed to teach her is that I am always coming back. The 40 laps around the track...is that at tempo or marthon goal pace? I gotta ask Lee to clarify that one.

Sit and Down

2008-01-31T07:24:00.000-08:00

I'm breaking up my class into three seperate posts. I thought, if anyone is reading this, they can pick which exercise they are interested in and read only that post.
Our third and last excercise of the night was "sit" and "down". Lee explained how we are always testing our dogs when we say, "Insert dog's name, Sit"..."sit"..."sit"..... How often have you done this? Told your pup to "sit" or "down" and when they didn't continued to repeat it over and over. Lee used Cricket as the Guinea Dog, and using a treat, raised his hand above her head and once she sat, "Good Sit". He did this over and over. Of course, Cricket did her usual "Stick em Up" pose which everyone laughed at but did not earn her a "Good Sit" or treat. Then he did the same thing with "down". He got on his knees and put the food (in hand) on the ground. The minute Cricket's elbows touched the ground she got the treat and a "Good Down". Then it was our turn to try. I think Cricket was the first one done with her 15 sits and 15 downs. Not that it was a race but she is showing she is no stick in the mud. We are to do 30 sits a day for three consecutive days. I started this morning and have made already gotten in 5!

Second Night of Class and The Recall

2008-01-31T07:13:00.000-08:00

Second night of class went much better than the first, I thought. Cricket and I have been practicing our stay and sit and when Lee asked us to all perform the excercise, at the beginning of class, we were not the last to finish. I bragged a little to Lee, during one of our 2 min breaks, "isn't she doing better"? He agreed. Then Cricket spoiled it by being the loudest barker during our discussion period. We were all standing in the middle of the areana and Lee was explaining our next exercise, "Recall", and Cricket was merrily barking away. I spoke with Lee about this...and he gave me an excercise to help her with what he called "Seperation". I'll describe it in a minute.
The recall exercise consisted of us starting in our assigned chair. We would have 5 treats in our hand. We had hold of the leash, perched on the end of our chair with our legs open so our dogs could get right up next to us. The minute our pups sat, we would pet them vigourously, smiling, and give them a treat and tell them "good girl..or boy". The minute they stood up....you shut down till they sat again. You waited about 5 secs between each treat but they had to sit before they got the treat. We did this 3 times with 3 dif types of 5 treats. Then, after that was done we had someone hold our dog, 10 ft away. We had, yet, another type of treat. We showed it to them then took off running to our chair. We would sit in the chair and say, forcefully, "Insert Dog's name, Come"! Then as they raced towards you you would say, "good girl/boy" but never the "come" word, again. Then you give them there 5 treats, repeating the exercise where they have to sit to get the treats. Make sense? We were all confused, at first, too. Cricket did awesome! I messed up more than she did, yelling "come" more than once or givng her a treat and not petting her.

At Townlake And Running Out Of Time

2008-01-28T05:36:00.000-08:00

Logan A492965 • 6-mo-old • Male • Pit bull mix • about 40 lbs • Pen 50 • arrived

11/21/2007The shelter is a hard place to be a growing puppy. I came here around Thanksgiving when I was just 5 months old — an age when I should have been running and playing with my family and learning how to be a dog. But I never had that chance. When I see people, I’m just so eager to be near them and make friends that I get carried away and play too roughly. Then they put me back in my cage and I’m left alone again. I just need someone to see what a great dog I can be with a little patient teaching. Can you see my potential? Will you take me home and show me that the world is more than a hard concrete kennel? I’ll reward you with a lifetime of love.

2/27/2008 UPDATE. Logan enjoyed two great play sessions with fellow running buddy, Keisha, this weekend. The extra exercise worked wonders for this older puppy. Logan was extremely well-behaved the rest of the weekend. He was calm and relaxed.

New Test

2008-01-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Cricket and I went to the park where we tried out a new test. I took two different types of treats, her regular food being one and then really yummy meaty treats being the other. I let her off the leash and threw a piece of her normal food about 10ft away. She sniffed her way to it till she found it then I called her back to me where I waited for her to sit and then gave her a really yummy treat. We did this 10 times. Next time, I'm supposed to move before so she has to look for me and then come. This is all supposed to help with recall.
We also did the stay and sit exercise. I'm not sure if she is actually getting any better at this. I mean, how good would any dog be at this if there were about 10 squirrels racing up and down trees all around them? She did it, though...eventually.

Yay Cricket!

What Makes Up A Cricket

2008-01-23T07:06:00.001-08:00

This is an exercise that Lee asked us all to do. I really enjoyed it and actually learned quite a bit about Cricket in the process.

Originally, we called Cricket a LabX but after a couple of Whippet owners and Whippet Mix owners said that she looked like she had Whippet in her we started calling her a Whippet/Lab Mix. So, I grabbed some breed info from Wikipedia and am going to compare it to what I know about my Cricket.
Whippets are generally quiet and gentle dogs, content to spend much of the day sleeping
. Kent and I are continually amazed at how much Cricket sleeps. She is like a cat.
They are not generally aggressive towards other animals, and although especially attached to their owners, they are friendly to visitors. They are not prone to snapping, so they are good with young children.
Cricket is great with the kids, loves all my friends and never bothers or even pays attention to my cat, Jellybean.
They may or may not bark when strangers arrive, and are not suited to being guard dogs due to their trusting and unsuspicious nature.
Cricket is not a big barker. She never barks around the house but will bark at the park or if I’m running the track and have her tied to the fence. Hopefully, we will get her over that one.
Their coats do not provide the insulation to withstand prolonged periods of exposure to the cold. Their natural attachment to people makes them happiest when kept as housepets. They are most at home in the company of their owners, in their lap or lying next to them on the lounge.
It is true that she will start shivering pretty quickly if we do not keep moving, in any temp below 45 degrees. I can’t imagine how she stood it, alone in that pen, with nothing but those other dogs, all winter. However, the lying next to me is not the case with Cricket. She is just as happy lying in the laundry room on a pile of beds as she is lying next to me on a pillow.

As to what she is mixed with…who knows. She is not fast but can run for hours. She likes to chase other dogs, squirrels, birds but not balls or frisbees. She will sniff the ground as if she is tracking something. She does not like water enough to swim in it but she will stand in it to cool off. I had thought maybe Lab but she really does not show any of the characteristics of the breed. So, your guess is as good as mine!

Confession Time

2008-01-22T15:24:00.000-08:00

It is time for class, agian, and I have to admit that I have not been a very diligent student. I have only played the stay and sit game three times. I think we will play again, today, so I can say we did it 4 times. =)
Yesterday we did the exercise in my parking garage at work. The first two sits I had to prompt out of necessity (I had to get back to work) but the second two she did very quickly after re-attaching her to the car.
Now, I need to work on all the papers Lee wanted us to write. Did I mention I am a procrastinator?

Homework

2008-01-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Cricket and I are trying to be good about doing our homework. I've always been a procrastinator when it comes to take-home assignments but I can't procrastinate this time or else Cricket will pay the price at our next session. This particular bit of homework is an "everyday" task. Everyday, I have to practice the "too bad" exercise. If Cricket does something which Lee has said is "against the rules", I take her by the collar (suppose to be the leash but I just can't justify her walking around with a leash on all the time getting caught in something every 5 mins) and walk her to the laundry room telling her, "too bad". Her most common offense is getting on the couch. I just pull her off with my "too bad" comment. She licked the top of the coffee table, yesterday, earning her a "too bad" and a trip to the laundry room. She is not suppose to lick, sniff or even think about the places where I might have my food. She jumped on a guest who came for a visit earning her a "not good" from Kent who could not remember "too bad".
Also, we are supposed to practice our sit and be patient exercise. First day, I tied her to the front door and sat on the couch. The minute she sat down, I stood up with a big smile and walked to her and began petting her. If she comes out of the sit before one minute is up, I "shut down" as Lee puts it, meaning that my whole body kinda closes down and my face goes into poker face mode and I walk away. Once she makes the minute, I pat her twice on the shoulder take the leash and go for a 2 minute walk. It is important to make sure to not come back before the 2 mins are up. We do this four times. The next day you move to a new spot. I have not been that diligent with this and have only done it twice in the past four days. She did great though. First day in the living room and the second day in the backyard. I have no doubt, though, the minute we go somewhere more distracting this could become and exercise in my sitting and being patient.

Cricket and I Go To School

2008-01-17T09:56:00.000-08:00

After Eden passed away 3 months ago, I decided to adopt my foster, Cricket. She has been my saving grace, along with my friends and wonderful kitty Jellybean. I will talk more of how Cricket has been there for me as I explore these feelings in a paper that I have been asked to write by Lee Mannix, our new Obedience Class instructor. (segue into next paragraph)
Cricket and I have started Adult Basic Training with Lee Mannix. I thought I would blog our progress on my Running Pawtners blogsite. Just in case anyone out there reads this and has challenges with their pups and would like to see how we progress and maybe learn a thing or two from our accomplishments and/or mistakes.
When I called to sign Cricket up for the Adult Basic Obedience class, I was asked if she has any dog aggressions. “Welllllllllll, kinda”, I explained. “She tends to do this weird bark/snap thing at other dogs when she first meets them or thinks they have invaded her space”. I was asked to bring her in for an evaluation before we could sign up for the class.
The evaluation went well. She passed, I guess, because he said she could come to class. He advised that I change her food from Nutro toWellness. I was to nolonger give her rawhides and I needed to add 2 Tbsp of fruit and one Tbsp of natural yogurt to her food, everyday. Also, he gave me some info on how to be more of the “alpha” in the pack. In addition, I was not to take her to the dog park are let her meet any new dogs between that day and the time we would start class, two weeks later.
I switched the food and started adding the fruit and yogurt. I could choose between apples, carrots, potatoes, peas, bananas, cantaloupe, watermelon, berries, broccoli, cauliflower and green beans. She is ok with the apples, bananas and strawberries and really likes carrots but I’m not so sure about broccoli or cauliflower.
I did pretty well with the rawhide rule, at first. He suggested greenies (which she goes through in 1 min flat) or real bones. I gave her a cows leg and she and Iggy chewed right through them leaving shards of bone all over the floor. She then hacked and gagged for the next day till she threw up about a cup of bone shards. That just didn’t look safe to me so back to the rawhides. Sorry, Lee. Also, we failed the dog park rule. We have been about 5 times since and, yes, she still has her issues but she loves to go…and I love to go… Maybe, now that class has started, I’ll do better with that one.

Clancy- Adopt A Running Buddy

2008-01-08T07:40:00.000-08:00

You can see Clancy's picture here http://townlakedogs.com/flyers/Clancy_full.pdf

Clancy is an all-around good boy who wants to be your best buddy. He appears housebroken, is affectionate with people and wants to make friends with other dogs. He is a popular member of the trail dog program because of his good manners on a leash. Clancy is also polishing his fetching skills, especially Frisbees. His easy-going personality will make him a good fit in a new home.
Clancy can act anxious to get out of his kennel, but don’t let that discourage you. This handsome guy just wants the chance to meet you.
View Clancy and other running or walking buddies at
Run.townLAkedogs.com

Puppy Tales: The Adventures of Adam the Australian Shepherd

2007-12-12T16:49:00.000-08:00

"Puppy Tales" is the story of Adam, an abused puppy that was abandoned at the Town Lake Animal Center and rescued by Austin Aussie Rescue. After being adopted, Adam winds up on a Texas Hill Country ranch near Johnson City, where he shares a series of fun-loving,spirited adventures with "Momma" and "Poppa," TinkerBell the cat, and his horse friends Ace, Durango and Cody. The author uses this entertaining cast of characters to weave a story around the timeless values of love, discipline and friendship. Kelly Carper Polden is an award-winning professional communicator with more than 20 years of experience writing, editing andcreatingmarketing communications materials for a variety ofnational andinternational companies. After moving to the HillCountry in 2006, she started a freelance writing and communications consulting business. Kelly was inspired to put her first children's story
to words while running the trails in nearby Pedernales Falls StatePark with Adam,her rescued pup. Complemented with sketches by JohnsonCity-based illustrator Cheryl Eckenrode, "Puppy Tales" is thefirst of what issure to be many stories of Adam's adventures with hisfriends on theranch.Forgotten Friends (www.mixbreedrescue.com) and Austin Aussie Rescue(austinaussierescue.org) are Austin-based rescueorganizations supported solely by volunteers and donations from the community. TheForgotten Friends group was started eight years ago tohelp reduce thenumber of sweet, loving dogs that die everyday for lack of a committed home. Since 2001 Austin Aussie Rescue has providedfoster homes andapproved adoptions for more than 150 rescuedAustralian shepherds.Both groups are 501c3 non-profit organizations.

Lola Was Found

2007-11-09T06:35:00.000-08:00

Thanks to microchipping, Lola was recovered, yesterday. She was taken into Town Lake Animal Shelter where she was scanned and her microchip traced to Joann, from Aussie Rescue. Joann called Sarah and Sarah was able to reclaim her baby. We are all thankful that she is home safe and sound and I am sure that Lola is thankful that she was able to sleep in her own bed, last night.

2007-11-07T07:01:00.000-08:00

Reward For Lost Dog

Lola is a spayed Female, Aussie Shepard Mix.

Color
Red and White Merle w/ Red spots. Has black mask around eyes.
Age
4 years

Hair
Medium length
Description
Lola’s tail has a black stripe/ring on it. Her tail is also broken, so it does not wag. She is not wearing a collar, but is microchipped (# 45431D3C3B) and current on all vaccinations and medications.

Contact Information
Sarah and Brandon
Phone
(512) 797-3696
Last Seen Location
In the backyard, near the intersection of Wiginton and Swearingen (which is near Metric and Breaker)

Date
November 6, 2007

A Bright Light Passed

2007-10-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

The world was left a little bit darker, this past Sat, Oct 27, when one of the brightest souls I have ever known passed over the Rainbow Bridge. Eden left us, peacefully, yesterday, after a short battle with bone cancer. I have never had to make a harder decision than the one to let her go. I couldn't watch her suffer any longer though, and Dr. Wyatt was so kind to come, after any decent hour, and help to release Eden from her earthly bonds. This poem is one of my favorites and I thought upon it as I called Dr. Wyatt and made my decision.

IF I SHOULD GROW FRAIL
If it should be that I grow frail and weak and pain does keep me from my sleep, then will you do what must be done for this - the last battle - can't be won. You will be sad I understand, but don't let grief then stay your hand. For on this day, more than the rest, your love and friendship must stand the test. We have had so many happy years, you wouldn't want me to suffer so. When the time comes, please let me go. Take me to where my needs they'll tend, only stay with me til the end. And hold me firm and speak to me until my eyes no longer see. I know in time you will agree, it is a kindness you do to me. Although my tail its last has waved, from pain and suffering I have been saved. Don't grieve that it must now be you, who has to decide this thing to do. We've been so close, we two, these years - don't let your heart hold any tears.

A part of me died when Eden left. She has been my running pawtner, roommate, keeper of all my secrets, my very bestfriend since I adopted her, or she found me, however you look at it, in 2000. It has been 7 short years since then and part of me feels cheated for not having the chance to spend more time with her but another part of me feels so blessed for having met her at all. I have fostered many dogs and known many more, but have never met a dog as sweet, loving, caring and giving as Eden. Most anyone who met her would agree with that statement, and knowing that I got to share my life so intimately with her, makes me feel like one of the luckiest people alive.

I will never forget, Eden Anne, all the thousands of miles we ran together. How she would happily run right in front of me, forging the way, or the time I tripped and fell and she ran back to stand over me protecting me from a phatom attacker (or just the embarassment of being seen). I will never forget crying in her fur, during the rough times, and how she licked away my tears when I found out she was to leave me before I was ready.
A part of Eden will always be with me....I will never find another friend who will love me as unconditionally as she did, forgiving me my faults and short comings.

I hope she is somewhere where there are hundreds of trails to explore and as many squirrels to chase up trees. "In heaven dogs don't need wings because they prefer running to flying".

I hope that someday I might be lucky enough to join you, Sweet Eden, because my soul is not whole without you.

To Eden's Friends,

I plan to purchase a brick, placed at Lou Neff Point, on Lady Bird Lake http://www.townlaketrail.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=40, (where Eden spent many happy runs with me and her other running buddies) to help commemorate Eden's memory. I know some of you have mentioned wanting to donate towards the cost of Eden's brick. If any of Eden's friends would like to make a donation towards "Eden's Brick" then, please send a check to

Aussie Rescue
PO BOX 10426
Austin TX 78766-1426
Aussie Rescue is a 501c3 organization and any money received, over the cost of the brick, will go directly to Aussie Rescue.

Also, if you would like to see more pictures of Eden and even a movie or 2, please visit Eden's dad's blogsite. It will touch your heart and for those of you who do not know the many ways Eden graced our world, it will help you to understand why so many felt she was more than just a "dog". http://justsouthofthedot.blogspot.com/

Nowhere to Turn

2007-10-26T10:45:00.000-07:00

At TownLake, there is an Aussie in Pen 179 @ TLAC, ID# 490122, who is about 10 months old. They say he is energetic and shows no signs of ever having been trained.

However, someone (who lives in an apt.)put in an application on him 6 days ago, but the app. has not finalized, nor been retracted. This means that his time is up and he needs either an interested party or someone to foster him till he finds a home of his own.

TLAC did a behavioral eval. which emphasizes the need for an experienced person with an active lifestyle.

Aussie Rescue is looking for someone who enjoys going hiking, running, walking or just being outside in general and wouldn't mind taking this guy along for the fun. Also, this person needs to have been around active dogs, before. Aussies are awesome dogs. If any of you have met Eden, you know how smart, loyal and all around loving they can be. However, I have always run with Eden and almost all of the Aussies and Aussie mixes I have fostered needed that kind of outlet for their energy.

Even if you don't have the space for a foster, please fwd this message on. You never know who, of your friends, are looking for a dog or who would be willing to share their home with a foster dog and help him to find a home of his own.

Anyone interested in finding out more information is welcome to email me at marlawanda@gmail.com

Thanks for reading and passing on.

cheers,
Marla and Eden

Sweet, Smart, Affectionate and Pretty Darn Cute Describes Cricket

2007-10-07T19:42:00.000-07:00

Cricket is an amazing dog. She was found, out near Bastrop, in a pen with several other dogs. The dogs were never taken out of their pen and only had human contact, once a week when their person would take a bag of food and throw it to them. Because of this hard beginning, Cricket came to us with calluses on her hind quarters, obviously having had numerous litters, over weight, scarred and with a case of heart worms. We thought we were going to have a hard case on our hands. I am happy to say that Cricket is one of the sweetest dogs I have ever fostered. She is house trained, knows a few commands, is super smart and a HUGE lover. Nothing makes her happier than to have her head on your lap or be sleeping at your feet when you are watching TV or working on the computer. Well, maybe one thing, she LOVES to go for walks or short jogs. She is not running high mileage but 3 to 4 miles at a 9:30 plus pace is great. She also loves the dog park. So, if you are looking for a calm dog but who loves to be active, Cricket is the girl for you. She gets along great with her two doggie housemates and her kitty housemate. She is spayed, over her heart worms, and current on all shots. Having been outside, on the hard earth, most of the first two years of her life, I am hoping to find Cricket a forever home where she will not spend her days outdoors but will have access, at all times, to a nice, soft pillow inside.

Pet Pal Fun Run and Festival

2007-09-24T14:06:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Eden and I are planning on running another 5k this weekend. Wanna come out and join us? There will be a 5k for those who want to really strut their stuff and a 1 mile fun walk for those who are more out for a mosey. There will be prizes for the 1st through 3rd place dogs. After the fun runs there will be a festival with weenie dog and Chihuahua races, pet blessings, demonstrations and all kinds of stuff for those of you with two legged kids.

Check out the website for more information. http://www.preventalitter.com/petfest.htm

I hope you can join us!

BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN HOMELESS ANIMALS AND FOREVER HOMES

2007-08-17T08:47:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Come join Eden and I, this Sat, Aug 16th, at the Pfluger Pedestran Bridge, and show your support for all the homeless and unwanted animals in the US.

Eden was an unwanted dog, if you can believe, at one time in her life. Now, she wants to show her support for those dogs and cats who are still homeless by attending the Spay Austin Homeless Animals Rally. Eden is hoping that this rally will bring awareness to the millions of unwanted animals who are put to death, every year, in the US. Won't you come join us?

Click here to read about the event and the group who is organizing it. http://spayaustin.com/

Two Aussies Left Behind After Companion Dies Unexpectedly

2007-06-12T05:54:00.000-07:00

First Clyde, then later Luna, was adopted by the same gentle, quiet man and for a year and a half, the three made a happy family. The dogs learned to love to go for rides in the car and walks around the neighborhood with their dad. Sadly, their hero suddenly passed away, leaving them alone again.

We can't bear to think of splitting up this pair; they love to play together, as well as rely on each other for comfort and companionship. Clyde and Luna don't ask for much: A quiet home with one or two sensitive, patient people who will give them time to warm up on their own schedule. A yard with a couple of trees to provide opportunities for squirrel and bird watching. Regular walks and occasional car rides. Because they have not been around them, often, we would prefer to find them a home without young children
Although both of these dogs are very shy, they have never shown any aggression. Once they get to know you, they are affectionate--it just takes awhile. Both offer wonderful petting opportunities. Their loyalty, once they settle in, is its own reward.
Clyde and Luna are up-to-date on vaccinations and heartworm prevention, are altered, and microchipped.

CONTACT JOANN for more information at mailto:austinaussierescue@hotmail.com?subject=Inquiry or call 512-303-1987 (evenings/weekends or leave message.)

Blue Dog Rescue 5K

2007-05-28T14:06:00.000-07:00

This was our second year to participate in the Blue Dog Rescue 5K . I really love this event. It raises money for a good cause and encourages people to get out and do something active with their pooches.

Last year Eden and I walked almost the entire event with Iggy and Kent. Iggy was a bit out of shape and over weight and barely able to walk the 3.2 miles. This year, however, Eden and I decided to let Kent and Iggy walk and we would race the event. We wanted to see if Eden, at 12 years, still had it in her. Let me report, that if I am that fast at 65 or whatever she is in dog years I'll be winning my age group at all my races. Eden ran a 24:21 but since my chip time showed me at 24:05 then she probably crossed the line a sec behind me. That is a sub 8 min/mile time! Go Eden!

We won 5th doggie and hardware! Actually, we got a free dental cleaning but let me tell you, she needs that more than a medal!

Eden's brother, Karma, got 2nd Doggie, over all, with a time of 21:29, I think. Talk about fast! Way to go Karma!

Kent and Iggy and our new foster, Cricket, kicked butt running almost the entire way. They didn't place but to see Iggy, a year older and moving so much better than he did last year is a testament to healthy eating and exercise.

The volunteers were wonderful, the run was well supported and everyone had a great time. Thanks to Blue Dog for such a wonderful event!

Eden's friend Diva having fun!

Run For The Rovers ...Let's Run (or walk)

2007-05-21T07:21:00.001-07:00

Hey All,

Who would be interested in getting together a group to run (or walk) this Sun at the annual Blue Dog Rescue Run For the Rovers? I'd love to see everyone. Last year Mike and Karma got 5th place and they are coming back to try and take first! We can help to cheer them on!

Here are the details- (send me an email if you have an interest in hooking up and we can make plans marlawanda@gmail.com )

Thank you for joining us for Blue Dog Rescue's first annual Run for the Rovers5K last year. This year, we're back again with an improved course and a Kids'1K so you can bring the whole family! Please join us on Sunday, May 27th, andhelp us make the second annual Run for the Rovers 5K an even bigger successthan last year's race.

If you register online by this Friday, you'll save $5 on your 5K entry fee. Allproceeds from the event benefit Blue Dog Rescue.When: Sunday, May 27, 2006, 8:30 am (5K), 8:00 am (Kids' 1K)Where: Williamson County Regional ParkWhat: 5K run/walk and Kids' 1KRegister today at http://www.bluedogrescue.com/

===Race Details===

Prizes go to the top overall female and male and the top 3 females and males from each age group (13–20, 21–30, 31–40, 41–50, 51–60, and over 60). Prizes include gift certificates to local businesses, veterinary care, heartworm andflea preventative, and more!

The race is primarily for human participants, but you can register your canine family members for the run as well. Each dog receives a goody bag, and the top5 dogs win prizes. All dogs must be spayed or neutered, current on vaccinationsand rabies shots, well-socialized, and on standard 4- or 6-foot leashes (noretractable leashes). One canine per person please.Entry fees:* 5K: $25* 5K with Dog: $30* Kids' 1K: $10

American Bulldog X At TownLake and In Final Hours

2007-04-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

My friend, Molly, has contacted me, today, to ask me to put out a plea for help. She was recently asked to transport, what was supposed to be an English Bulldog to a Dallas Area Bulldog rescue group. However, they soon realized the dog was not purebred and the group has refused to take him. This leaves Jager, a 3 yr old male bulldog mix, without a home and without many options.

We need a foster home or a permanent home, ASAP. Jager has not been neutered but this will happen when he leaves Town Lake Animal Shelter. He also has a small case of mange but it is not contagious and can be cleared up with a few special baths and a change to a more nutritous diet. He really is out of time so, please spread the word, quickly, and let me know, soon as possible, if you have room in your home and heart to spare.
My contact information is marlawanda@gmail.com

Active Partner Needed for Active Pawtner

2007-04-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

Thi is Buster. He is 1 1/2 year old male, not neutered, but soon will be! He currently lives with and is great with kids. He loves to play with the children and give em big doggie kisses. He is better with bigger children who can tell him to stay down as he sometimes gets so excited and becomes very wiggly. He's got a great personality, very friendly to everyone. He loves to be cuddled and wants to spend all his time with his people. His current family admits they don't have the time or energy for him.

He'd love a doggie friend. He has never been aggressive around other dogs. He just wants to make friends with every dog he meets.

He would be best at a home without cats or other small animals. His current family says that cats, squirrels, birds, raccoons, possum, anything small (even Chihuahuas!) are subject to being chased and treated like toys. Buster needs to be given a home where he will receive the attention that all dogs deserve. His new family will need to dedicate themselves to taking Buster to dog obedience classes. He needs some discipline in his life along with long walks or runs and tons of love. Please contact me if you think you would be interested in adopting or fostering Buster.

Beautiful Red Heeler (Boo) Looking for a Home

2007-01-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

I am an 8 month old Australian Cattle Dog (aka Blue Heeler or Red Heeler). My foster mom found me underneath a trailer by her house. I was really skinny and scared. She brought me home, fed me and then took me to the vet. I had fleas, mange and lots of worms and was in pretty bad shape.
That was 3 months ago and now I am all fixed up. My fleas, mange and worms are gone. I am current on all my shots. She even had me micro chipped to keep me safe forever. I also got neutered at the vet and I didn’t think that would be much fun but now I know I am much better off.My mom says I am very smart and very, very sweet. I get along great with both of my foster brothers and we play and cuddle all the time. I also love the small human children that live here and will play with them too.
At night my mom will let me get on the couch and cuddle with her but I only get up there when I am invited. I have good manners for an 8 month old stray. I can sit, lie down, come and I am working hard on stay. I also heel better than any young guy my mom has seen, I think it is in my blood.
I love to run. I would probably be the best running buddy ever because I was made to run next to a horse and herd cattle all day. In time I should be up to 10+ miles easily. My mom tries to run me 4 or 5 miles every day but because of the my 2 foster brothers and the little humans she just doesn’t have time to take care of all of us and my foster brothers are starting to get neglected.
Right now I am about 35 lbs and shouldn’t get too much bigger. I am small enough to cuddle on the couch and big enough to keep you safe on a run.
I don’t bark much and am house trained and crate trained. I sleep in my crate all night and don’t make a peep. My foster mom says that whoever will give me a forever home can take my crate and all my stuff too. She also says that she will baby-sit me anytime and if things don’t work out I can come back here.
Please give me a chance and email my mom.

cdelbecq@austin.rr.com
Carrie Delbecq 512-320-0150 Cell 512-748-0694

Young Aussie Female Needs Help Out Of Town Lake Animal Shelter

2007-01-04T08:23:00.000-08:00

There is not much information on this little girl. This picture is a few months old. She was turned into Town Lake Animal shelter by an older couple, along with a French bulldog, miniature Dachsund and tiny Chihuahua. She was adopted out in October and returned in Dec. The staff believes the couple who adopted her flaked, as she was cute and cuddly puppy when adopted, and is becoming what we all know is a proper, energetic Aussie.
Aussie Rescue has run out of foster options and is seeking help for a possible foster or adopter. If you are interested or know of someone who is interested, please send me an email.
marlawanda@gmail.com

Beautiful Bengal Cat I Call Magpie

2006-10-01T20:54:00.000-07:00

My mother called me, today, to tell me that she decided to pull out the Bengal cat that came into the San Angelo Humane Society two weeks, ago. The cat came in, had kittens, and then had to endure all her kittens being taken from her and put to sleep. She is now having to go through the loss of those kittens while she painfully deals with her milk drying up. Last week, she was supposed to be adopted and taken out of the shelter. Unfortunately, the adoption feel through. Mother and I could not stand the thought of this beautiful baby going under the needle so, in spite of the fact that I now live in a tiny, one bedroom apartment with my cat Jellybean and dog Eden, and mother lives in a rent home with her three cats and four dogs, we have pulled her from the shelter and are intending on finding her forever home. I have decided to call her Magpie. Magpie is going to be receiving her shots and getting spayed, this week. Next week, Mother will evaluate her and find out her likes and dislikes. After that, she will bring Magpie to me and I will have her at my apartment.
What I am hoping to do is find someone in a better situation who would be willing to either foster or maybe someone is looking for a new fur face.
I have read up a bit on Bengal kitties and they are truly unique. They remind me a little bit of Siamese cats but are even more agile and athletics.
If you would like to read more about click on this link About Bengals .
Magpie shows off her spots.

Hank the Running Dog

2006-08-14T07:41:00.000-07:00

Hank Dog

Pointer
Size: MediumAge: YoungSex: MaleID:

Notes: **This is a courtesy post ** A couple in Denton found a dog in thier driveway a few months ago. They have been calling him Hank and trying to find him home with friends or family but with no luck. They cannot keep him themselves, as they already have three dogs and a baby on the way. Their vet thinks he is about a year old and he has now been nuetered and has received all his shots. Hank has been learning how to sit, stay, and play ball. He is very sweet although he does get very excited with new people but they are also working with him on not jumping on visitors. If there is anyway you could help us place him in a good home we would really appreciate it. Also, although Hank LOVES to run around outside, he also loves to cuddle in my lap and sleep in my husband's office so I think he needs to be an indoor/outdoor dog.

Thank you for your time and help. If you are interested in Hank, please e-mail a.rice25@gmail.com or call 940-323-2121.

South Austin Dog Needs Adoption or Foster

2006-08-10T07:21:00.001-07:00

(this was sent to me in an email. Contact information below)
Last Thursday on the way to work I found a dog in the median of Stassney Lane that had been hit by a vehicle overnight and left to die.

As I passed, I thought he was dead, but then saw him raise his head in my rear view mirror. I had no choice but to turn my car around and help.I pulled over, got out and approached him-- he was conscious & alive,but barely. As luck would have it a vet pulled up right after me andweexamined him. He couldn't stand or walk, so we picked him up, put him inmy car and the vet called an animal hospital on the south side oftown,Feathers and Fur. I drove him there and was certain they would have toput him out of his misery and euthanize due to his injuries.
This dog had most likely been dumped and walking around starving for weeks, ashewas emaciated, dehydrated and full of stickers, fleas and bug bites. I called back later that morning and the vet said he wascritical, but stable. They had decided to nickname him "Auto", as in automoblie hit and run victim....
His injuries included a dislocatedpelvis, major head swelling, some scrapes, bruises and scratches, andadislocated right front leg that now has some neurological damage. Had noone stopped by he most likely would have just laid there and died thatday, alone. We live in a cynical world, and the only way I know tocombat that is to help one another, furry or 2-legged. The vetbasically did everything he could to help this poor guy and keep him comfortable enough to stay alive, and recuperate. By Friday, the now-deemed Auto was worlds better from the prior48 hours or so. He was actually sitting up, although still not walking,and asking for food and water. And trying to give kisses to the vet techs.
But they are not able to keep him long term, nor is it good forhis recuperation and asked us to help find him either a permanent or foster home.
Anna and I made the decision to at least go ahead and take himhome for now, foster through part of his recuperation while trying tofind him a permanent home, and picked him up this morning. We've decidedto name him "Elliot" after the kid and his friend E.T. in the movie ofthe same name who we all remember miraculously came back from thedead.Elliot is a ~3-year-old Shepherd mix, not currently neutered, heartworm negative (miraculously) white with brown spots and thesweetest face. Right now he is walking some, but still in pain. He'sreally smart, wants so badly to play (but can't), very gentle and loving and seems to be okay with our other dogs, as long as they don't come too close. Not too bad for an injured animal. If the nerve damage in his right front arm doesn't come back in the next couple of days, it is most likely beyond repair and will have to be amputated. We will take him in on Tuesday and the vet will make that determination. At that time we'llgo ahead and have him neutered.
Dr. Blatt at Feathers and Fur has been an amazing person with this situation-- he has said "...let's not worry about the bills, but whatever you can give will really help."However, we cannot keep him long-term with a house full ofotheranimals, and have another personal situation in which we cannot addanymore furry kids to our home.So now I need to rally the troops. This message is a plea forhelp for Elliot. If you know of anyone who would be interested in adopting Elliot, please give them my information below.

Any donationstowards his cause would also be so helpful and deeply appreciated.Peace & love,Benae & Anna ColbertHome: 512.280.6921 Mobile: 512.461.6336abc2002@flash.net
Feather & Fur Animal Hospital9125 Manchaca Rd.Austin 78748512.291.4000Dr. BlattDr. Newman

Help Sara's Sanctuary

2006-08-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

Hello SARA Supporters-
We really need your help now more than ever. Summer means a decline in donations and a rise in expenses for SARA. If everybody who receives this message would send just $10, it would go a long way in helping us pay our bills and operating expenses. We must raise at least $30,000 per month just to cover the basics.

Electric Bill Due
We need to keep our electricity on- without it, we have no water for the animals here. Our bill must be paid by Friday, August 4th or it will be disconnected. Our current total amount owed is $1543.84.
If you would like to help pay the bill directly our account number is 10015877 at the Guadalupe Valley Electric Cooperative
1-800-223-GVEC.

Flea and Tick Treatment
We need to treat the dogs monthly with Advantix and the cats with Advantage. SARA Supporter, Melissa Wu is helping us through her organization, Animal Matters by setting up a “No More Tick Fund.” To contribute to this fund, please contact Melissa at Melissa@animalmattersonline.org for details.
Here’s a price breakdown for the dogs:
Keep one dog tick free for six months ($49), a full year ($99), and Keep 3 dogs tick free for a year ($297).

Volunteers Needed This Saturday
We have several projects that need to be completed this weekend including spreading granular insecticide and applying Advantix to the dogs, bathing, clean up, etc. If you can lend a hand, please RSVP Sarah Bubeck at srbubeck@yahoo.com.
Drinks and picnic lunch provided.

Please Help Us Help Them
It’s easier than ever to make a donation to SARA through our web site www.sarasanctuary.org.
Simply click on the JustGive.org icon and follow the instructions.
If you prefer to send a check our mailing address is PO Box 813, Seguin, Texas 78156.

Thanks in advance for your generosity and support.
Tracy

First Annual Wag Your Tail Dog Walk

2006-07-24T08:16:00.000-07:00

Let's all plan to make it out to the first annual "Wag Your Tail" dog walk.

Info from the sign up site-
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -- Margaret Mead
Mission:
To promote Tolerance, Acceptance, Inclusion and Love ("TAIL") through dog-walk events.
To recognize dogs for showing their “TAIL” (Tolerance, Acceptance, Inclusion and Love) through our donations to non-profit dog-supporting and tolerance-missioned organizations.
To recognize non-profit organizations that promote "TAIL" among people through our donations, publicity and support.

http://www.wagyourtail.org/events.html

Hogs For Dogs

2006-07-12T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hogs for Dogs Fundraiser for the new Hutto Animal Shelter 7/29/06
The Hutto Chamber of Commerce, Snuffy's Bar and Grill (in Hutto), and the Hutto Business Update are working on a motorcycle fun run (Hogs For Dogs) on July 29 to raise funds to help the new Hutto animal shelter. As part of that we are working with the Hutto Parks & Recreation Dept to have a 1K run at Fritz Park in Hutto and a rabies clinic.
If there are any rescue groups that would like to participate, or if you have any questions, please contact me by email at kkroyer@msn.com. There is NO VENDOR FEE for this event and it would be a great opportunity to showcase dogs you may have available for adoption. The Hogs For Dogs will be the cover story in the July/August issue of the Hutto Business Update which is distributed to every address in the 78634 zip code and beyond. Any group participating will be listed in the story or on the sidebar. So if you would like to be involved, let me know by Wednesday 6/14/06, so I can get your group listed before the Business Update goes to print in the middle of June.
This event is separate from the Hutto Olde Tyme Days Festival on October 21st that I previously posted about. Thanks to all that have expressed interest for the October event!

Karma Brings Home Hardware

2006-06-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

takes Another Wilen brings home the hardware.

Mike and I are so proud of our pup Karma. This past Sun, May 28, 2006, Karma accepted his first race award. The award was for coming in as 5th place dog, at the Blue Dog Rescue Run for the Rovers http://www.bluedogrescue.com/.Amongst a field of 150 dogs, Karma and Mike ran a blazing 24:30 which is an avg 7 min 53 second miles!His sister, Eden, who herself won 2nd place in the San Angelo Humane Society Rover run two years earlier, trotted in with her friend Iggy and his two legged playmate, Rachel, in about 30th place.

At the award presentations, Karma was given a HUGE container of treats, toys and even a doggie bed! (much better than most of the awards I have ever received at a race)It was so much fun to participate in an event so focused on our fur friends. The Rover Run was much more laid back than your normal 5k race. There was much tail-waggin and hello-booty-sniffs. I saw not one fight, human or canine, take place. We all had a great time and hope to do it again, next year. (Mike is already coming up with he and Karma's race strategy for improving upon their 5th place finish)
P.S. Karma would like to let it be known that he started out at the very back of the pack, and was forced to walk the first 50 yards as the bottleneck infront of him dissipated.

LV PAWS Dog Walk

2006-04-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

LV PAWS Dog WalkCome one, come all, to the Lago Vista PAWS "Dogs' Day Out" Dog Walk Fundraiser. This event will be a doggone good time for the whole family. Please invite your friends, family, and co-workers to participate in the dog walk, sell their wares at a vendor table, or just come for a day of fun.
Date/Time:Saturday, April 22, 2006(Rain Date: Saturday, April 29, 2006)
Registration 8:30 AMWalk 9:30 AM
Location:Bar-K Clubhouse Pool Pavilion6608 Bar-K Road, Lago Vista, TexasForms:Walker Registration Form Walker
Sponsorship FormVendor Form
http://www.lvpaws.org/

Bad Breeders Spurred on by irresponsible buyers

2006-03-30T19:28:00.000-08:00

I pulled this post from another blog site but it really struck a chord with me.
Bad Breeder Still in Business
In May 2005, El Dorado country animal control officers raided Arthur Warren's ranch near Placerville, Calif., seizing 15 Aussies and six horses. And yet a year later, Warren is still selling puppies without a kennel license, and with an open animal cruelty case against him. News 10, out of Sacramento, Calif., just last night gave some long-overdue exposure to this disreputable breeder who has bred and sold Australian Shepherds illegally for more than 20 years.
Warren advertised his puppies for sale in newspapers, and News 10 reporter George Warren interviewed Arthur Warren "in the parking lot of a corner market near his ranch where he often meets customers to sell his puppies." Not to deflect blame from the true criminal, but how is it that these customers thought it was OK to purchase a puppy in a parking lot, without ever seeing the kennel or the puppy's parents? Didn't that seem the least bit suspicious? Until people stop supporting bad breeders, bad breeders will continue to profit while their dogs suffer.
NorCal Aussie Rescue took in the seized dogs (two of whom had to be euthanized because they were so aggressive), rehabilitated them and found them homes. You can read more about this story, including what you can do to help, on their website, here and here.

Maudie Update

2006-03-07T13:04:00.000-08:00

A quick update on Ms. Maudie. She is finally coming out of her shell. She will come up to you now and ask for a little bit of loving. She isn't great on a leash but passable. She pulls a bit but she is so light that you hardly notice. In a bigger dog you wouldn't put up with it.
She loves her crate and will take her toys and rawhides, into it for playing or chewing. We keep it right by the couch so everyone can hang out.

I have not been running with her, yet. I can tell, though, when we finally hit the trail she is going to have no problem keeping up.
Please feel free to pass her information around...and pics. Contact me with any quesitons.

The Elfin Dog

2006-02-13T07:03:00.000-08:00

Why do I call Maudie the Elfin dog? I think she looks like a little elf or maybe a pixie...you decide. Regardless, she is a cutie and oh so sweet. She came to me through the San Angelo Humane Society where she was found in one of the shelter's side cages. I don't know her story but I can say that it must not be a very happy one. She is incredibly shy but, with Mike out in the yard playing with her and our other kids and me taking her on little excursions into town, she is slowly but surely coming around.
Speaking of playing, she loves to play! Check out the pics of her and Karma chasing eachother.
Her Info-
Age: 8-9 mos
Sex: Female (spayed)
Breed: Collie/Aussie/Elf/Pixie
Other: Maudie is crate trained and house trained. We have not started running yet because she is just too shy around people. We are currently working on walking, in a straight line, on the leash. She loves other dogs and ignores the cats so would do great in a multiple pet home. Kids, though, are another breed all together. I am afraid that she is too shy to deal with ear pulling or being chased by a toddler. A family with children over the age of 10 should be fine.

Get Fit With Your Dog

2006-01-15T16:58:00.000-08:00

Get Fit With Your Dog
THSD is teaming up with RunTex and the Austin Mayor’s Council on Fitness to offer a free 12 week training program to get ready for The Mighty Texas Dog Walk, April 8, 2006.
Participants get a training plan to build up their and their dog’s fitness level so they can be ready for the 3 mile dog walk. THSD and RunTex will offer weekly training sessions with a short lecture on canine health and training and a walk at Town Lake, with the distances gradually increasing. Participants also receive a coupon for a discount for shoes at RunTex.

Participation is free with registration for the Mighty Texas Dog Walk (online registration will be available later this month).

The kickoff is Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 8:00 a.m. on the steps of Austin’s City Hall. We want at least 100 people and their dogs there. Please email sheri@servicedogs.org if you plan to attend the kickoff, so we can get a headcount. Austin Mayor Will Wynn will lead the first training walk with his dog. This will be a media event, so bring Fido and watch him on the news that night!

Gemma Adopted

2006-01-15T16:54:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

A quick update on Reese. After fostering her for 2 days, her previous foster mother contacted me to say that she could not live without her. I don't think Gemma could have found a better forever home.
Good luck to them.

Reese and Gemma---Potential Running Pawtners

2005-12-12T06:01:00.000-08:00

Reese and Gemma are littermates who were born deaf in December of 2004. They werebrought into Aussie Rescue in May 2005.---------

Reese is a sweet family dog. She is very good with kids, cats, and other dogs. Sheknows hand-signals for “sit,” “down,” “place/stay,” “good girl,” and “leave it.” She is spayed, microchipped, housetrained, up-to-date on shots, and current for flea andheartworm preventative. She is still a puppy, and is looking for an active familythat would like to include a new dog in their activities. She chews a bit, but iseasy to re-direct back to appropriate bones and toys. The highlight of Reese’s day is her morning run. She is eager to please and rather easy to train. For more information about Reese (and pictures), check out her web-page:http://web2.petfinder.org/pet.cgi?action=2&pet=5011404

---------Gemma (Reese’s sister) was abused during her first months of life, and will need avery specific environment in which she can live happily and feel secure. As thevictim of violence from another dog, Gemma would be happiest as the only dog in hernew home. She is also highly excitable; we would prefer not to place her in familieswith cats or young children. Gemma has been training very hard to please her newfamily, and now has excellent manners. Still, she will do best in a home with anexperienced “dog person” who knows something (or is willing to learn) about packbehavior. Gemma is housetrained, microchipped, spayed, up-to-date on shots, andcurrent for flea and heartworm preventative. She knows “sit,” “down,” “place/stay,”“good girl,” “leave it,” and “heel.” She has experience running, and would be anexcellent running partner for some active individual. For more information aboutGemma (and pictures), please see her web-page:http://web2.petfinder.org/pet.cgi?action=2&pet=5011403

---------Gemma is being fostered by Heather (hbonikowski@yahoo.com). Reese is soon to be fostered by ME. Please feel free to contact either Heather or myself if you are interested in either dog. Also, if you would like to get the ball rolling, you may fill out an online application(http://txaussies.com/Adoption_Process.html) .

Holiday Adopted!

2005-12-07T06:16:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update....Holiday has been adopted (paperwork to follow, soon).
Here is what her new mom has to say...

Holday's doing great! She's still with my mom.
Mom just loves having Holiday at her house -- I get several updates each day on what she's been up to. My mom's also happy that Holiday makes her more active (she was active anyway, though). And Holday is used to her daily visit to the nursing center. Mom says that there are patients there that really show little excitement ever until they see Holiday, and then they just light up. Several people have suggested that she should be a therapy dog, so I think I may do that when she gets here.

I have suggested that Jennifer look into Therapy Pet Pals, which Eden and I currently participate in and love.

Keep posted for a new foster to come after Christmas and for updates on my "Happy Tails" past fosters.

cheers,
Marla

Rescue Flyer

2005-11-18T06:15:00.000-08:00

Running Pawtner for Adoption

Holiday Hound

Catahoula Mix
Female
2 yrs old
Spayed and Current On All Shots
Gets along well with cats and other dogs.
Crate trained, house trained, knows basic commands like "sit" and "stay".
Loves to run and is currently up to 7 miles at a 9:30 min/mile pace.

Holiday is sponsored by Aussie Rescue and Tom Green County Humane Society. If you have always envied runners and their canine companions and have often thought you would like an "ever ready" friend to run with, please give me a call or send me an email. I will happily answer any questions you might have regarding Holiday and/or running with dogs.

phone - 512-826-6822

email - marla_bbbb@yahoo.com

Holiday Up to 7 Miles

2005-11-16T07:45:00.000-08:00

Holiday ran 7 Miles this morning! It was a nice cool morning, for once, and Holiday had no problem going the entire 7 mile loop. We avg'd a 9:30 -9:45 pace and stopped twice for water. She is such a good girl who shows lots of enthusiasm for running.

Pictures of Holiday

2005-10-30T13:42:00.000-08:00

2005-10-30T09:47:00.000-08:00

Holiday has a sad story with a happy ending. She comes to us from San Angelo Tx, where she was the loving friend to a couple who was stationed at the air force base, there. When the couple was restationed in Hawaii they gave Holiday (not her orignal name) to a family member. That same family member was, a year later, stationed in Hawaii, as well. Feeling that they did not want to invest the time or money that it would take to bring Holiday with th
em, they took her to the local shelter. Unfortunatly, San Angelo's animal shelter is a kill shelter. When Holiday's 9th hour was upon her, she had a fortunate break, the San Angelo Humane Society stepped in and rescued her.
My mother happens to be a member of this group and she immediatly saw the running potential in this happy, healthy girl. That is how she came to be a Running Pawtner.
Holiday is a wonderfully tempered girl. She is about 2 yrs old. She is up to date on all shots, heartworm negative, and spayed. Holiday is crate trained, house trained and learning basic commands. She is good with cats and loves other dogs.
She is running 3 to 5 miles. She does not bother other dogs but is still learning how to stay clear of her runner. It won't take long though before she has that figured out. She is a smart girl.

She needs an active person who will make sure to make her a big part of their life.