Effective March 2010 Blossom House will no longer exist. After a year of being unemployed I had to find places for my remaining foster and even one of my own beautiful dogs. The bank will be taking my house and I will temporarily move back in with family. Hopefully, there will be greener pastures for me in Northern Virginia.

However, I will never stop volunteering to help animals and people. My hope is that one day I can pick up where I left off and start saving lives again. In the meantime, let us all keep up the good fight. There are so many things we can do in rescue besides foster and adopt. Let's treat each other and animals with respect and dignity. We can't forget that other people need us too.

Much love to everyone who comes here. Please feel free to drop me a note at alexstrain77@aol.com.

We call our home Blossom House because dogs always blossom at our place. We do this through respect, compassion and structure. We do what we can for dogs that need help by fostering, transporting, visiting, screening, testing, corresponding.

In the last two years we have driven ~80,000 transport miles. We have helped get about sixty dogs per year into responsible rescues or permanent homes. Please understand we are not a shelter and neither are the rescue groups we assist. We are a network of private people who foster dogs out of our homes.

Please understand that we know these dogs very well and have their interests in mind during the application process. Each dog has a corresponding set of unique conditions and bonuses that will be considered in our quests to grant them each an upgrade on their way toward utopia.

You must be willing to submit an application and begin the screening process before you meet any dogs. Please also take the time to thoroughly read the entirety of the biographies of the dog(s) you are interested in -- many of your questions may already be answered.

If, after reading the complete biographies, you have more questions, you can always ask and they will be answered, but you will still have to go through the application process before meeting anyone. Thanks for your time and enjoy your virtual visit with the dogs of Blossom House.

11/09 UPDATE: We've had a string of bad luck recently, including the loss of a lot of dog stuff like leashes, collars and medical records that were in the car when it was stolen. We are asking for help from those who can provide money or donate items like bags of Canidae dog food, crib mattresses, used blankets and towels. If you would like to contribute cash, please click the "donate" button below. Thanks again.

Thank to everyone who has helped me and by extension helped the dogs. Whether it was courtesy listing, cross posting, offering words of encouragement, advice, vet care, money, food, you are so appreciated and you help me remember there is still a lot of good out there. I am sure I have left out a couple of people so please continue to check back as I update this.

Natasha & Ghita Strain
North Mecklenburg Animal Rescue, http://www.northmecklenburganimalrescue.org/
Beth Phillips
Carolina Pet Adoption & Welfare Society, http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/NC516.html
Deborah Pandis
Noble Shepherd Rescue, http://www.nobleshepherdrescue.com/
Lisa McVety
Melanie Stines
Samantha Laine, www.cltdog.com/profile/SamanthaLaine
ECHO WGSD Rescue, http://www.echodogs.org/ and the magnificent Terry Demag
Jodi Richards, www.water4dogs.com
Alfie's mom, Carroll Reidder
Anya Whitney
The Schnauzer Rescue of the Carolina's, http://www.schnauzerrescueofthecarolinas.com/
Anita McGuire
Project Halo, http://www.projecthalo.net/
VA GSD Rescue & Debbie Thomas, http://www.shepherdrescue.org/
Liz Brannan
Susan/Pits And Rotts For Life Rescue, Inc. http://www.pitsandrottsforlife.petfinder.com/
Justine Dougherty
Barry Carter
Helping the Helpless Pet Rescue, http://www.helpingthehelplesspets.com/
Mikael Hardy/PAWSitive Effects, http://www.pawsitiveeffects.com/
Mary Harwelik/Real Pitbull, http://www.realpitbull.com/
Deborah Parkhill Mullis/Metrolina Dog Reporter, http://dogreporter.blogspot.com/
Lori Saylor
Rita Hunt
Colleen Farmer
Nika's mom, Mandy Dellinger
Golden Retriever Rescue Club of Charlotte, http://www.grrcc.com/
Jennifer Shryock B.A. CDBC, http://www.familypaws.com/
Suzi Faulkner, http://www.amrottclub.org/
Cindy Poppino/Humane Society of Union County, http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/NC84.html
Edie Larson

To you, from all your rescue dogs

The Reason

I would've died that day if not for you.
I would've given up on life if not for your kind eyes.
I would've used my teeth in fear if not for your gentle hands.
I would have left this life believing that all humans don't care Believing there is no such thing as fur that isn't matted,
skin that isn't flea bitten, good food and enough of it,
beds to sleep on, someone to love me, to show me I deserve love just because I exist.
Your kind eyes, your loving smile, your gentle hands
Your big heart saved me...
You saved me from the terror of the pound,
Soothing away the memories of my old life.
You have taught me what it means to be loved.
I have seen you do the same for other dogs like me.
I have heard you ask yourself in times of despair
Why you do it
When there is no more money, no more room, no more homes You open your heart a little bigger, stretch the money a little tighter
Make just a little more room...to save one more like me.
I tell you with the gratitude and love that shines in my eyes
In the best way I know how
Reminding you why you go on trying.
I am the reason
The dogs before me are the reason
As are the ones who come after.
Our lives would've been wasted, our love never given
We would die if not for you.
--Author Unknown

When God had made the earth and sky,
The flowers and the trees,
He then made all the animals,
The fish, the birds and bees.
And when at last He’d finished,
Not one was quite the same.
He said, “I’ll walk this world of mine,
And give each one a name.”
And so He traveled far and wide
And everywhere He went,
A little creature followed Him
Until its strength was spent.
When all were named upon the earth
And in the sky and sea,
The little creature said, “Dear Lord,
There’s not one left for me.”
Kindly the Father said to him,
“I’ve left you to the end,
I’ve turned my own name back to front
And called you dog, my friend.”


-Author unknown


I DREAMT OF YOU

I dreamt of you last night,
Safe and warm for once in my life
You were cuddling me and holding me tight
This dream of you made me want for my life to fight
I awoke this morning and you weren't here
But I can still feel you and I know you must be near

I dreamt of you again last night
For you I fetched a ball and lost at a tug of war fight
So happy I was to be free and full of health
To feel your love, yes I knew this was the true meaning of wealth
Yet I awoke again this morning and you still weren't here
But just like yesterday I know you must be near

I dreamt of you again last night
This night was harder though, I am so afraid I'm losing the fight
My small body is wasting and I am so sick
I'm afraid I won't make it unless you come rescue me quick
I can still feel you, I know you must be near
I cry for you now so maybe you will hear

I did not sleep at all last night
I have no energy left for the fight
My littermates are dying in this place called the pound
And I know tomorrow the warden is forced to make his round
The old and feeble and sick shall go
I will be chosen, for this I already know
I cry for you softly, I thought you were near
But now I truly doubt if you even care to hear

My night was long, I am suffering so
When the warden carries me out, I am ready to go
He gently tells me I am sorry for your fate
You are a beautiful puppy, and for this I hate
I must end your suffering, for this is the rule
The one you dreamt of must have been a fool

Today you will start your day as you always do
Never caring how many times that I dreamt of you
Never knowing what a wonderful companion I could have been
If only the purebred puppy in the newspaper did not win
You thought of rescuing, but you bought instead
For this decision I now am dead

Written by Mary Bevens~Sacred Hearts Animal Rescue & Sanctuary
In memory of all the wonderful shelter dogs/puppies that die daily in the US due to irresponsible breeding.

Just a Dog

From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog," or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog."

They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog."

Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog."

Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog,"

but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog," and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.
If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably understand phrases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise."

"Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy.

"Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person.

Because of "just a dog", I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future.

So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.

"Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog", but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a man or woman."

So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog" just smile... because they "just don't understand."

by Richard Biby
Tulsa, Oklahoma Contributing Editor VHD
From "The Versatile Hunting Dog" NAVHDA's Magazine February 2006

Your Dog

I adopted your dog today
The one you left at the pound
The one you had for seven years
and no longer wanted around.

I adopted your dog today
Do you know he's lost weight?
Do you know he's scared and depressed and has lost all faith?

I adopted your dog today.
he had fleas and a cold,
but don't worry none.
You've unburdened your load.

I adopted your dog today.
Were you having a baby or moving away?
Did you suddenly develop allergies
or was there no reason he couldn't stay?

I adopted your dog today.
he doesn't play or eat much
He's very depressed, but
he will learn again to trust.

I adopted your dog today.
And here he will stay.
He's found his forever home
and a warm bed on which to lay.

I adopted your dog today.
And I will give him all that he could need.
Patience, love, security, and understanding.
Hopefully he will forget your selfish deed.

-Author Unknown

The Prayer of a Stray

Dear God, please send me somebody who will care!
I’m tired of running, I’m sick with despair.
My body is aching, it is so racked with pain,
And dear God I pray as I run in the rain,
That someone will love me and give me a home.
A warm cozy bed and a big juicy bone.
My last owner tied me all day in the yard
Sometimes with no water and God that was hard!
So I chewed my leash, God, and I ran away
To rummage in garbage and live as a stray.
But now God I’m tired and hungry and cold.
And I’m so afraid that I’ll never grow old.
They’ve chased me with sticks and hit me with stones
While I run the streets just looking for bones!
I’m not really bad, God, please help if you can,
For I have become just a “victim of man.”
I’m wormy dear God and I’m ridden with fleas and
All I want is an owner to please!
If you find one for me, God, I’ll try to be good
And I won’t chew their shoes but I’ll do as I should.
I’ll love them, protect them and try to obey
When they tell me to sit, to lie down or to stay!
I don’t think I’ll make it too long on my own,
‘Cause I’m getting so weak and I’m so alone.
Each night as I sleep in the bushes I cry, ‘Cause I’m so afraid, God, that I’m gonna die! And I’ve got so much love and devotion to give, That I should be given a new chance to live. So dear God please, please answer my prayer and send me somebody who will really care.

- Author Unknown

A poem to my foster dog

I am the bridge between what was and what can be.
I am the pathway to a new life.
I am made of mush,
Because my heart melted when I saw you,
Matted and sore, limping, depressed,
Lonely, unwanted, afraid to love.
For one little time you are mine.
I will feed you with my own hand
I will love you with my whole heart
I will make you whole.
I am made of steel.
Because when the time comes,
When you are well, and sleek,
When your eyes shine,
And your tail wags with joy
Then comes the hard part.
I will let you go--not without a tear,
But without a regret. For you are safe forever--
A new dog needs me now.

by Diane Morgan

The Meaning of Rescue

Now that I'm home, bathed, settled and fed
All nicely tucked in my warm bed,
I'd like to open my baggage
Lest I forget,
There is much to carry -
So much to forget
Hmmm . . . Yes, there it is, right on the top
Let's unpack loneliness, heartache and loss;
And there by my leash hides fear and shame.
As I look on these things I tried so hard to leave -
I still have to unpack my baggage called pain.
I loved them, the others, the ones who left me.
But I wasn't good enough - for they didn't want me.
Will you add to my baggage?
Will you help me unpack?
Or will you just look at my things -
And take me right back?
Do you have the time to help me unpack?
To put away my baggage,
To never repack?
I pray that you do - I'm so tired you see.
But I do come with baggage -
Will you still want me?

-Author Unknown


A Dog Sits Waiting
A dog sits waiting in the cold autumn sun --
too faithful to leave, too frightened to run.
He's been there for days nowwith nothing to do but sit by the road, waiting for you.
He can't understand why you left him that day;he thought you and he were stopping to play.
He's sure you'll come back, and that's why he stays --how long will he suffer? How many more days?
His legs have grown weak, his throat's parched and dry;he's sick now from hunger and he falls, with a sigh.
He lays down his head, and he closes his eyes --
I wish you could see how a waiting dog dies!

by Kathy Flood

If I Didn't Have a Dog or Cat or several of each

I could walk around the yard barefoot in safety.

My house could be carpeted instead of tiled and laminated.

All flat surfaces, clothing, furniture, and cars would befree of hair.

When the doorbell rings, it wouldn't sound like a kennel.

When the doorbell rings, I could get to the door without wading through fuzzy bodies who beat me there.

I could sit on the couch and my bed the way I wanted, without taking into consideration how much space several fur bodies would need to get comfortable.

I would have money and no guilt to go on a real vacation.

I would not be on a first-name basis with 6 veterinarians,as I put their yet unborn grand kids through college.

The most used words in my vocabulary would not be: out, sit, down, come, no, stay, and leave him/her/it ALONE.

My house would not be cordoned off into zones with baby gates or barriers.

I would not talk 'baby talk'. 'Eat your din din'. 'Yummy yummy for the tummy'..

My house would not look like a day care center, toys everywhere.

My pockets would not contain things like poop bags, treats and an extra leash.

I would no longer have to spell the words B-A-L-L, F-R-I-S-B-E- E, W-A-L-K, T-R-E-A-T, B-I-K-E, G-O, R-I-D-E

I would not have as many leaves (or pine needles) INSIDE my house as outside.

I would not look strangely at people who think having ONEdog/cat ties them down too much.

I'd look forward to spring and the rainy season instead of dreading 'mud' season.

I would not have to answer the question 'Why do you have so many animals?' from people who will never have the joy in their lives of knowing they are loved unconditionally by someone as close to an angel as they will ever get.

How EMPTY my life would be!!!


A New Puppy

After two long years of being on a waiting list for an agility dog, we have been notified by the breeder that, at long last, our number has come up and ...

WE ARE HAVING A PUPPY!!!

We must get rid of our children IMMEDIATELY because we just know how time consuming our new little puppy is going to be and it just wouldn't be fair to the children.

Since our little puppy will be arriving on Monday we MUST place the children into rescue this weekend!
The kids are described as:

One male - His name is Tommy, Caucasian (English/Irish mix), light blonde hair, blue eyes. Four years old. Excellent disposition. He doesn't bite. Temperament tested. Does have problems with peeing directly in the toilet. Has had chicken Pox and is current on all shots. Tonsils have already been removed. Tommy eats everything, is very clean, house trained & gets along well with others. Does not run with scissors and with a little training he should be able to read soon.

One female - Her name is Lexie, Caucasian (English/Irish mix), strawberry blonde hair, green eyes quite freckled. Two years old. Can be surly at times. Non-biter, thumb sucker. Has been temperament tested but needs a little attitude adjusting occasionally. She is current on all shots, tonsils out, and is very healthy & can be affectionate. Gets along well with other little girls & little boys but does not like to share her toys and therefore would do best in a one child household. She is a very quick learner and is currently working on her house training-shouldn' t take long at all.

We really do LOVE our children so much and want to do what's right for them; that is why we contacted a rescue group. But we simply can no longer keep them.

Also, we are afraid that they may hurt our new puppy. I hope you understand that ours is a UNIQUE situation and we have a real emergency here!!! They MUST be placed into your rescue by Sunday night at the latest or we will be forced to drop them off at the orphanage or along some dark, country road. Our priority now has to be our new puppy.

- Author Unknown

Declawing: A Rational Look

By Jean Hofve, DVM

There are few feline issues that are as controversial as declawing. There is a great deal of myth and misinformation out there about it. If you are considering having this surgery performed on your cat, or if a veterinarian has suggested it, please read this article first to learn more about this major surgical procedure. Isn't it worth a few minutes of your time to make sure that you make a rational and informed decision?
Declawing is not a simple or routine surgery. It should never be done as a "preventative," especially in kittens. Despite their reputation for independence, cats can readily be trained to leave the sofa, curtains, or carpet untouched. Using surgery to prevent or correct a behavioral problem is expedient, but it is definitely not the smartest, kindest, most cost-effective, or best solution for you and your cat. Your veterinarian has an obligation to educate you as to the nature of the procedure, the risks of anesthesia and surgery, and the potential for serious physical and behavioral complications, both short- and long-term.

Why do people declaw their cats?

To protect furniture or other property
They don't want to try to train the cat
They tried one or two things to train the cat but it didn't work
Their other cat is declawed
To stop the cat from scratching them
Their friend's or family's cat is declawed
They have always had declawed cats
Their veterinarian recommends it
Because they just do not know any better

Many people report that they are happier with their cats after declawing, because it makes the cats "better pets." Unfortunately, just as many people have discovered - too late - that declawing frequently leads to far worse problems than it solves. There is no way to know ahead of time into which category your cat might fall! There are other, better ways to solve behavior problems than radical and irreversible surgery.

What is declawing?

Declawing, which is rightly described as "de-toeing" when the same procedure is done to chickens, is the amputation of each front toe at the first joint (hind foot declaws are not commonly done but would be equivalent). This is necessary because, unlike a fingernail, the claw actually grows from the first toe bone. The procedure is so excruciatingly painful that it was once used as a technique of torture, and even today is the primary test of the effectiveness of pain medications. Recovery takes a few weeks, but even after the surgical wounds have healed, there are other long-term physical and psychological effects.

For the surgery itself, the cat is put under general anesthesia and the toes are prepared with antiseptic soap. A tourniquet is placed on the cat's leg and tightened to prevent excessive bleeding. Using a scalpel, the surgeon grips the tip of the claw with a small clamp, and uses scalpel to carve around the third phalanx, cutting through the skin and severing tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. In another technique using a guillotine blade (Resco), a sterilized veterinary nail clipper is used to cut the tissues (below left; the full series of photos can be seen at lisaviolet.com). A scalpel may be used to remove the last piece of P3 ). The wound is typically closed with sutures or surgical glue, but some vets rely on bandages to control the bleeding. Tight bandages restrict the normal response of the tissue to swell, causing intense pressure and more pain. LASER surgery is similar to the scalpel technique, although the LASER cauterizes the blood vessels by burning them as they are cut, so there is less bleeding.

Are claws that important to a cat's well-being?

Claws perform a number of vital functions for the cat. By scratching various surfaces, cats create a visual and scent identification mark for their territory. Claws provide psychological comfort through kneading, help the cat climb to safety or a secure vantage point, and help the cat fully stretch his back and legs. A declawed cat never again experiences the head-to-toe satisfaction of a full body stretch!

What are the potential complications of declawing?

Post-surgical complications: Abscesses and claw regrowth can occur a few weeks to many years after surgery. Chronic or intermittent lameness may develop. In one study that followed cats for only 5 months after surgery, nearly 1/3 of cats developed complications from both declaw and tendonectomy surgeries (digital tendonectomy is a procedure whereby the tendons that extend the toes are cut; it's sometimes promoted as an "alternative" to declawing. However, because these cats require constant maintenance and frequent nail clipping to prevent injury, many end up being declawed anyway).
Pain: It is impossible to know how much chronic pain and suffering declawing causes, because cats are unable to express these in human terms. However, we can compare similar procedures in people. Nearly all human amputees report "phantom" sensations from the amputated part, ranging from merely strange to extremely painful (about 40% of such sensations are categorized as painful). Because declawing involves at least ten separate amputations, it is virtually certain that all declawed cats experience phantom pain in one or more toes. In humans, these sensations continue for life, even when the amputation took place in early childhood. There is no physiological reason that this would not be true for cats. Cats are stoic creatures, and typically conceal pain or illness until it becomes overwhelming. With chronic pain, they may simply learn to live and cope with it. Their behavior may appear "normal," but a lack of overt signs of pain does not mean that they are pain-free.

Joint Stiffness: In declawed (and tendonectomized) cats, the tendons that control the toe joints retract after surgery, and these joints become essentially "frozen." The toes remain fully contracted for the life of the cat. In cats that have been declawed for many years, these joints often cannot be moved, even under deep anesthesia. The fact that most cats continue to make scratching motions after they are declawed is often said to "prove" that they do not "miss" their claws. However, this behavior is more realistically explained as desperate but ineffective efforts to stretch those stiff toes, legs, shoulders and backs.

Arthritis: Research has shown that, in the immediate post-operative period, newly declawed cats shift their body weight backward onto the large central pads of the feet, and off the sore toes. This effect was significant even when strong pain medication was given, and remained apparent for the duration of the study (up to 40 hours after the surgery). If this altered gait persists over time, it would cause stress on the leg joints and spine, and could lead to damage and arthritic changes in multiple joints. A recent study showed that arthritis of the elbow is very common in older cats. When contacted, the researchers admitted that they did not ask or record whether the cats were declawed, perhaps preferring the "don't ask, don't tell" policy so as not to anger those many veterinarians who make a lot of money from declawing.

Litterbox Problems: Experts say that declawed cats have more litterbox problems than clawed cats. Not many people would choose urine-soaked carpeting (or floorboards, sofa cushions, walls, bedding, or mattresses) over a few scratch marks, but this is a distressingly common outcome. In one survey, 95% of calls about declawed cats related to litterbox problems, while only 46% of clawed cats had such problems - and most of those were older cats, many of them with physical ailments that accounted for the behavior. Some households with declawed cats have spent thousands of dollars replacing drywall, carpets, and subfloors to repair urine damage.
Biting: Some experts believe that cats who are declawed are likely to become biters. Many declawed cats do seem to "notice" that their claws are missing, and turn to biting as a primary means of defense - not a good choice for a cat in a home with children or immunocompromised individuals.
Change in Personality: This is a common complaint - "my cat has never been the same." A friendly, delightful kitten may become a morose, fearful, or reclusive cat, never to recover its natural joy, grace, and love of exploration.

Neglect and Abuse: Declawing that results in biting or inappropriate elimination outside the litterbox may result in the cat being permanently locked in the basement, dumped at a shelter, or simply abandoned. Many cats are exiled to a life outdoors because of these unwanted behaviors, even though declawed cats should never be allowed outside unsupervised - their ability to defend themselves, and to escape danger by climbing, is seriously impaired. They also risk injury or death by dogs, cars, wild predators, disease, poison, and other hazards of outdoor life.

Death: There is always a small but real risk of death from any general anesthesia, as well as from bleeding or other surgical complications. If a declawed cat that develops a behavior problem is taken to a shelter, such behavior makes him unadoptable, and he will promptly be euthanized (killed). For exiled cats, it is unfortunately common for outdoor cats to be stolen and used as defenseless live bait to be torn apart by fighting dogs, or sold to laboratories or biological suppliers. It's an ugly reality that a tame, friendly, declawed cat makes an ideal experimental subject.

Is LASER declawing okay?

Laser declawing causes less bleeding and swelling than other surgical techniques. This reduces pain and complications in the first few days after surgery, but the long-term consequences of the procedure remain the same.

Why do so many veterinarians suggest declawing cats?

Many veterinarians in the U.S. have become accustomed to performing the declawing procedure without thinking about - or even recognizing - the common complications. Some even recommend declawing kittens at the same time they are spayed or neutered, whether or not they have developed destructive scratching habits. However, this goes against the express written policy of the American Veterinary Medical Association. All the top veterinary behaviorists agree that declawing should not even be considered until all other options, such as training or deterrents, have been sincerely tried and failed.

Who says declawing is a bad idea?

Declawing is illegal or considered extremely inhumane in 25 countries around the world, including most "civilized" nations: England, Scotland, Wales, Italy, France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Denmark, Finland, Slovenia, Portugal, Belgium, Spain, Brazil, Israel, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Yugoslavia.
Since animal shelters and humane societies are prime dumping grounds for cats with behavior problems, personnel there should have a realistic and practical view about whether declawing keeps cats in their homes, or creates worse difficulties. A survey of major shelters and humane societies around the U.S. found many who are firmly against declawing, and some will not even adopt a cat to a person who intends to declaw. Against declawing are the ASPCA, Humane Society of the United States, Massachusetts SPCA, Denver Dumb Friends League, San Francisco SPCA, SPCA of Texas, F.L.O.C.K. (For Love of Cats and Kittens, Las Vegas, NV), and the Animal Welfare League (Chicago, IL, the Midwest's largest humane society). The SPCA of Los Angeles puts it in no uncertain terms: "We do NOT support, nor condone, the act of declawing cats. It is cruel, unnecessary, and inhumane." The Cat Fancier's Association, the world's largest pedigreed cat registry, opposes declawing as "without benefit to the cat" and involving "post operative discomfort or pain, and potential future behavioral or physical effects."

How can I stop unwanted scratching behavior without declawing?

Provide an appropriate place to scratch:
Cats of any age can be trained not to scratch furniture or other objects - including people - although it is easier if the cat is trained as a kitten. Amazingly, many people do not even know that they should provide a scratching post for their cats. Because scratching is a deeply ingrained instinct in cats, if there is no appropriate spot, they will be forced to substitute furniture or other objects.

To decide on a strategy, watch where your kitten or cat likes to scratch. Does she go for a long belly-stretch on the carpet, or does she prefer vertical surfaces like the arm of the sofa or the back of a chair? Try to imitate her favorite spots with acceptable scratching options.

A vertical scratching post should be at least 28-36" high to allow the cat to stretch to his full height. Many cats prefer natural soft wood, such as a section of bark-covered log or a cedar or redwood plank, or posts covered with sisal rope, which is more popular than the carpeted surfaces of many posts. The post must be very sturdy and stable; if it wobbles, your cat is unlikely to use it. Rubbing the surface with catnip, or using a catnip concentrate spray, may enhance the attractiveness of the post. For the more adventurous types, there are cat trees in dozens of sizes and colors, with features such as hidey-holes, lounging platforms, dangling toys, and other creative amenities. Like to do it yourself? There are plans for easy-to-make posts on the Internet or in many cat books. Don't be too quick to discard a shabby, well-worn post - that's when it's the most attractive to your cat!

No space for a cat tree? There are many other options available, such as clear sticky strips to apply to the furniture, and other deterrents, as well as a multitude of smaller cat-attractive scratching posts, mats, and other distractions that will protect your possessions. Some cats like to scratch on a horizontal surface; inexpensive cardboard scratchers are popular with these cats. Be sure to replace these periodically so they provide adequate resistance to the claws.
With scratching posts, as in real estate, think "location, location, location." Start with the post near kitty's favorite scratching object, and gradually (by inches) move it to its final destination.

Make the unacceptable object undesirable:

This may be as simple as throwing on a slip cover, or draping a thick towel, fleece, or blanket over the arm of the sofa. What kitty likes about tight upholstery fabric is its resistance - this is what allows him to stretch. If he hooks his claws into material that gives, or immediately pulls off and falls on his head, he'll lose interest in no time.

Another simple (and perhaps more esthetically pleasing) plan is to use double-sided tape, such as "Sticky Paws." This product has a special adhesive that does not damage the furniture, but feels disgusting to the cat's sensitive paw pads. It may need to be replaced every month or so as dust and hair accumulate on the tape's surface, but for many cats one or two applications is enough to dissuade them permanently.
Purrfect Paw is a clear plastic protector for the corners of furniture without the stickiness of other products. A similar product is "Sofa Savers". Call for information at 972-790-6658.
Padding for the Paws:

For aggressive or unremitting scratching, replaceable soft plastic caps for the claws called "Soft Paws" are a good solution. These caps are glued onto the nail; they'll come off by themselves after a few weeks and need replacing. They come in fun colors (as well as clear) and really do the trick. While you'll probably want your vet or groomer to apply them the first time, it's not that hard to replace them at home.
It's best to never play or roughhouse with your kitten or cat using your bare hands (or even covered-up hands!). You definitely don't want her to get the idea that biting or scratching human skin or body parts is okay. And while it's fun to watch the kitten attack your wiggling toes under a blanket, when he's 15 pounds with razor-sharp, inch-long fangs, it's not nearly as amusing. Serious aggression problems require assistance from your veterinarian, or your friendly behavior consultants at Little Big Cat!

Of course, conscientious nail-trimming will keep the claws blunt and minimize the damage that kitty can do to fabrics, furniture, and fingers.

Last but not least . . . .
We know that there are a few individuals who will always declaw their cats. Their own personal convenience and the safety of their belongings is their top priority, and whether or not it causes suffering to the cat is not a significant concern. (Whether they should have a cat at all is a debate for another time!)

Fortunately, most people truly love their feline companions and want to do what's best for all concerned. If you are one of these wonderful people (and if you've read this far, we're pretty sure you are!), please think carefully about this beautiful little animal who trusts you and relies on you for her very existence. Please make the humane choice - and DO NOT DECLAW!

I don't say euthanasia. I say kill. Euthanasia somehow implies a good death. Whatever word one wants to use, the animals all die in the end. Almost all who die are adoptable but some of us feel all dogs deserve a chance at life. Personally, I think everyone is responsible and everyone can have a hand it changing the numbers. Millions upon millions are killed. Let us not forget those languishing on the end of a chain, alone in a backyard, 18 hours a day in a crate or some other "existance."

I have to make myself forget about them sometimes in order to go about the rest of my life. Sometimes I find myself laughing and I feel guilty because I know Gaston County Animal Control just gassed a bunch of animals that day and will do more the next day and the next and the next and the next and so on. I will sponaneously start crying and I know why. You can only look at so many pictures and hold it in for so long before you grieve.

Many of us have started to truly dislike our fellow human beings. After all, it's because of us that thousands are born every day. It's because of us that we don't place a true value on them. Sometimes I hear people say why should anyone expect animals to be treated well when humans aren't kind to each other. So? Since when is that a reason to be apathetic? And btw, cruelty and lack of kindness against humans is not ok either. I don't think anyone in rescue advocates that. I find many people in rescue work with children, seniors and do charity work for humans. Part of rescue is education and helping humans too.

People who end up on my blog are probably animal lovers and have not been responsible for a death so this is the wrong audience. But for those not dealing with what I deal with, please remember what you read and what you saw. Know so many are killed and neglected and even if you don't have the inclination or time to volunteer maybe you can donate a couple bucks? Maybe you can educate your neighbor, friend, coworker? Maybe you will think twice before you adopt and make sure you can commit for life.

Christmas Returns

Santa comes quietly long before dawn
While shops are still busy and lights are still on
While dinners are cooking and kitchens are warm
And children count presents they'll open by morn.

He slips past the trees in windows aglow
Through the gate to the backyard
As icy winds blow
To find the pup he brought last year
Chained up in the snow
And, kneeling, he whispers, 'Are you ready to go?'

There are too many stops like this one tonight
Before the beginning of his regular flight
He leaves not a note or footprint in sight
Just an unbuckled collar
On a cold Christmas night......

-- Author Unknown

I don't think we live in a civilized society. No. Not as long as the level of cruelty and depravity against animals and innocents exists to the level it exists. How can something like chaining be legal? How can any "human being" do it? I believe there is a bit of humanity missing in you if you do this. If you see it, stop and offer assistance. Stop, and see what you can do to help. Stop, and get the address and contact http://www.dogsdeservebetter.com/ and ask them to mail info on chaining and alternatives. Not to mention the dangers.

BSL continues to gain momentum. It's simply idiotic. The way to end dog fighting, dog bites, etc... is to become better human beings and that means caring about more than just your own little life. Make our officials enact existing laws and create new laws that punish humans for depravity and cruelty. Put a stop to the astromical overbreeding that goes on. No more puppy mills. Where is the AKC on this and "real" breeders? Responsible guardianship should be encouraged and there need to be consequences for irresponsible people and not their dogs. And we need more education, education, education! Good people need to use their voice and not let fear grip them. There is no such thing as a bad dog. Only bad humans who are irresponsible by varying degrees, some quite extreme, that cause issues.

http://www.pitbulladvocate101.com/

"Until we have the courage to recognize cruelty for what it is—whether its victim is human or animal—we cannot expect things to be much better in this world. We cannot have peace among men whose hearts delight in killing any living creature. By every act that glorifies or even tolerates such moronic delight in killing we set back the progress of humanity."—Rachel Carson (author and environmentalist, 1907 - 1964)

Dog School

See photos or slideshow. www.cltdog.com/profile/SamanthaLaine

In home behavioral assessment for dog with issues. For all family members or extended family members who interact with your dog. A plan for rehabilitating your dog and for teaching you new ways to approach the problems. 3 hours. Ongoing support by phone and e-mail included.

In home Pack 101 on adoption day to help you introduce your new dog to other members of the pack. Simple tools and time proven ways to make sure your household remains in harmony

Mid day service for those who would like their dogs to have more than a brief visit. A long walk in the neighborhood, a visit to a nearby park, or a vigorous romp in the back yard. One hour.

samanthalaine310@gmail.com 310-403-8261

There is a behavior consultant that I have worked with a few times through her assisting me with my crew and her volunteer work with a group I have worked with, Noble Shepherd Rescue. She is now offering monthly conference calls to answer general questions for only $10. I think this is an awesome idea and with these tougher economic times, very cost effective. http://www.fastpitchnetworking.com/pressrelease_pdf.cfm?PRID=27888

To find out more, please go to: www.dogbehaviorhelp.familypaws.com.

If you end up needing more hands on help, she can also refer you to someone local to you if there is someone in her network where you are.

Jen is a Certified dog behavior consultant, a member of The Association of Pet Dog Trainers as well as a certified and founding member of The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She has been featured in several publications. The most recent being The Wall Street Journal and soon on "Nightline". Here is the link to the Wall Street Article (Please note the video link is not from Jen. Jen does not use choke chains or prongs in her programs) http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121237216406536787.html?mod=hpp_us_pageone.

Her primary focus has been dogs and children, see www.dogsandstorks.com and www.dogsandstorks.blogspot.com.

To learn more about her go to: http://www.familypaws.com/aboutus/about_jen.html.