Thursday, June 30, 2011

Welcome to CP Maisie!

Contributed by a CP Intakes Volunteer


Maisie was picked up as a stray and taken to the local shelter. She appeared to be well taken care of, however no one came looking for her. After several days, the shelter was able to track down her owners, who sadly, did not want her back.

CP was called, and Maisie quickly became a CP furkid. I’d like everyone to give Maisie a big CP welcome.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Wacky Wednesday!


Wednesday is the day to be WACKY! Each week we will showcase a terrierific cairn picture with an appropriate caption. If you have a terrierific cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture and caption for an upcoming "Wacky Wednesday" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

A big shout out to Gabby, Tess, Rocky and Wookie, the 'Calliope kids' for being our Wacky Wednesday models this week!

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Please Welcome Kelly Anne

Contributed by a CP Intakes Team Volunteer


Kelly Anne became a Col Potter girl earlier this week. She had been picked up as a stray and held in a rural shelter for several days but no one claimed her. She was out of time when the rescue team found out about her and again, thanks to an incredible CP volunteer (there are so many), she is now safely in the Col Potter family.

Kelly Anne is estimated to be 4-5 years old and is a tiny little girl – weighing in at just 13.2 lbs. She’ll be arriving at her foster home very late tonight where she’ll be welcomed with open arms.

Thank you Susan B for dropping everything and answering the plea for help in picking her up from that rural shelter and delivering her to the vet.

Monday, June 27, 2011

Random Acts of Kindness: When her dog slipped away, the UPS man provided safety



June 23, 2011 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette by James Hilston/Post-Gazette

On June 2, after walking my cairn terrier around the block, I attached a 6-foot lead to her harness while I watered my flowers.

I went, with my hose, to the back of my house to water two tomato plants -- a minute job. I could hear her barking, until I didn't ...

I could discern a truck stopping at the front of my house and panic engulfed me. I ran to the front and saw Betsy's harness and lead stretched out on the grass, minus my girl (my life). I saw a truck stopped, with no dog, no barking.

But instead of disaster, I could hear a wonderful UPS driver talking to my dog, keeping her stationary with a kind voice: "Do you want to come in?" I ran around the front of that big beautiful brown truck and saw my Betsy with her two front paws on its first step.

I grabbed her and tried my best to thank the driver. At the same time, all I could picture was what could have happened with a 15-pound dog vs. a UPS truck. This kind driver had blocked other traffic for Betsy's safety by stopping in the middle of the street.

He told me that he thought someone would be looking for this little dog soon. Oh, thank you, kind driver of the big brown truck. You saved my life, as well as Betsy's. What a humanitarian!

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Canine Pals can be your workout partners!


By Arden Moore Universal Uclick

Published: Tuesday, Jun. 21, 2011 - 12:00 am

Who says that exercise must be limited to sweating at the gym, fighting for an elliptical machine or failing to keep pace in a spinning class? Can't seem to muster the motivation to remove the clothes draped on the stationary bike in your bedroom to pedal a few miles?

The solution to staying in shape – and having fun – may be just a tail wag away. Check out the latest fitness trend: people-dog workout classes that focus on strength, flexibility and aerobics while unleashing plenty of fun for you and your dog.

By team
ing up with your best workout buddy – your dog – both of you can shed pounds, tone muscles and strengthen your connection.

"Regular exercise provides people and pets with physical and mental benefits," says Dr. Christine Zink, a veterinarian and professor of pathology at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. "Exercise releases endorphins – feel-good chemicals that provide a sense of well-being. Exercise helps maintain proper weight, improves coordination and balance, and stabilizes joints to prevent arthritis and acute injuries."

These special workout programs also reinforce good doggy manners. They bring out play with a purpose, offering dogs the chance to master basic commands such as sit, stay, down and come in positive settings. For the past two years, I've regularly attended Leash Your Fitness classes in San Diego with my two dogs: Chipper, a 60-pound gold
en retriever/husky mix, and Cleo, a 12-pound terrier-poodle mix.

Our "gym" is a huge fenced grassy field. Certified personal-fitness trainer Dawn Celapino credits Jack, her energetic cairn terrier, for inspiring her to create Leash Your Fitness.
"I hated having to leave Jack at home while I went to a gym to teach or work out," says Celapino. "He loves running, hiking and swimming with me. I discovered a lot of other dog people looking for new ways to work out with their dogs."

During each hourlong class, people sprint, skip and even hop while their leashed dogs match their strides. Together, they leap over hurdles or weave through agility poles. At any time, Celapino will call out for people to drop into squats and get their dogs to maintain a down stance. Or we'll heed the command to do pushups, and then get our canine pals to perform doggy pushups – a series of quick sit-downs.

Since enrolling, I've shed 20 pounds and canceled my gym membership. My veterinarian has deemed my 8-year-old dogs to be at ideal weights.Before you enroll, get a physical examination from your physician and book a head-to-tail checkup for your dog with your veterinarian. Go at your own pace and set your goals to gradually get better.

Exercise fortifies your body against a host of medical woes, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease. It can also save money on doctor and veterinary bills. Regular workouts can provide your dog with a perfect setting to unleash pent-up energy and reduce the amount of doggy destructiveness in the home that's often due to sheer boredom.Try one of these classes – or work out with your dog on your own – and together you will give a welcomed, new meaning to the expression "dog tired."

To learn more about people-pet workouts, check out Leash Your Fitness .

Heed these cautionary signs

Be careful not to overexert your dog during workouts. Stop the activity and allow your dog to rest if it displays any of these signs:

• Drooping tongue

• Rapid panting – an early sign of overheating

• Hesitation – taking a few extra seconds before retrieving a tossed ball

• Weight shifting – using different muscle groups to offset soreness

• Staggered walking

• Muscle tremors

• Limping – check footpads for cuts and bruises and legs for sprains or muscle pulls

Sunday Sweets

Sunday is full of SWEETS! Each week we will showcase the sweeter side of Cairns. If you have a sweet filled cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture for an upcoming "Sunday Sweets" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

Walter

Simon (fka General Sherman)

Ella

Corky

Vincent

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Sweating like a dog? probably Not!

Lowcountry Dog Magazine

by Leah Nicole Hawkins on Wednesday, June 22nd, 2011 at 11:55pm filed in Health and Wellness Local News



In early July of 2009, the dog world was rocked by a sudden tragedy. Seven show dogs, including Jersey, the 4th ranked Akita in the US, died as a result of heatstroke after being left in a van at one o’ clock in the morning. Their handler concluded that it was too hot in her garage to return the animals to their kennels, so she left six electric fans in the van along with opening a door and cracking a window. Believing these to be adequate precautions, she returned to the house to get some sleep. When she awoke and returned to the van around 6:30 am. the dogs were obviously distressed. Despite being rushed to a vet, only one of the eight dogs survived. It is believed that the temperature in the van could have risen as high as 120 degrees and that the dogs’ body temperatures may have topped out at over 108 degrees (a healthy dog maintains a body temperature around 101 degrees).

Sadly, incidents like this happen very often. Dogs are left in cars, crates, and yards all the time whilst their owners try to beat the summer heat. Unfortunately, while humans can shed excess heat out of the majority of their bodies, dogs can lose heat only through their footpads, their nose, and by panting. Heatstroke occurs when dogs lose the ability to regulate their body temperature and their normal temperature rises to 104 degrees and above. A temperature above 104 degrees requires immediate action to cool the animal down. A temperature reaching 106 degrees is an emergency and requires the attention of a veterinarian. Once a dog’s temperature reaches 106 degrees, the animal can suffer damage to their organs and cellular system that may not be reversible.

To guard your dog against heatstroke, be on the lookout for these symptoms:

Excessive panting

Thick saliva

Pale or dark red gums

Vomiting

Unresponsiveness to his/her name

Dizziness or disorientation

Collapse or an unwillingness to rise

If you suspect that your dog may be suffering from heatstroke, quickly move them out of direct sunlight and into a cooler area where air is circulating. Immediately give your dog water, but as with a human, do not let them drink too much too fast. Never use ice water or very cold water to cool your dog down, this can actually cause their blood vessels to constrict, which may increase their temperature rather than bringing it down. Cover them with cool towels or gently hose them down with cool water. Once your dog’s temperature reaches 103 degrees, stop cooling them. Over-cooling your animal may induce hypothermia, which opens the door to a new host of problems. Whether or not your dog begins to show signs of recovering, call your vet immediately! Heatstroke can damage your dog internally and he/she may require attention for such injuries.

As terrifying and potentially harmful as heatstroke is, it is easily preventable if you follow these safety steps.

1. Never leave any animal in a vehicle on a hot day regardless of whether the windows are open or not. The temperature in any vehicle can easily skyrocket in a matter of minutes.

2. Try to avoid vigorous exercise on hot days. Your dog does not know when to stop so try to find shady places for you and your pet if you must take them out.

3. Be sure that your dog has access to shady areas and plenty of water if it is a predominately outdoor dog. If at all possible, keep your dog inside on hot days. Periodically spraying your dog with cool water may also be beneficial.

It is important to note that these safety steps are especially important for brachycephalic breeds or short-nosed dogs. Breeds such as Pugs and Bulldogs are vulnerable to heatstroke as are dogs that are very young or old, overweight, dogs recovering from an injury, sickness, or surgery, double-coated breeds (such as Chow Chows), and dogs who were bred to handle cold climates such as Malamutes and Newfoundlands. So this summer beat the heat, but don’t forget that your furry friend requires the same comforts that you do.

Five Hot Tips for Summer Pet Care


Home Again June Newsletter


Summertime is fun time, but hot weather makes for some unique summer pet care challenges. Although wild animals are well adapted to the elements, companion animals can be just as susceptible to extreme temperatures as their owners are. What does that mean for your pet? When the temperatures get extreme, pet safety should be top of mind. Here are five ways to stay safe while enjoying summer activities with your pet:

1. Respect the heat. Humans aren’t the only animals that can find a hot summer day overwhelming. But unlike you, your pet has a limited ability to deal with the heat. Dogs release heat through their paw pads and by panting, while humans can sweat through all of the skin on their body. Dehydration can be a big problem for pets during the hot weather, too. According to the ASPCA, animals with flat faces—like Pugs and Persian cats—cannot pant as effectively, and are therefore more susceptible to heat stroke. You should also keep an eye on elderly or overweight pets or animals with heart and lung disease. In the summer, make certain that Fido and Fluffy always have access to plenty of fresh, cool water, and avoid letting them run around outside during the hottest parts of the day.

2. Keep bugs away—safely. Another summer pet safety issue is the presence of ticks and other summer insects. Not only can bugs carry diseases, but the ways people try to ward them off can also cause problems for your outdoor pet’s health. Fertilizers and pesticides may help keep a lawn looking great, but they can be very dangerous for your pet. In the areas where your pets play, it’s better to keep the grass cut short to reduce the presence of ticks and other insects. Also keep an eye out for fertilizer warnings on the edge of lawns when walking your dog. Talk to your vet about the best ways to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, and other insects that are more prevalent during the summer months.

3. Beware of anti-freeze. In the summertime, anti-freeze can leak out of cars when they overheat, leaving puddles on the ground that your dog can easily lap up and swallow. The sweet taste of anti-freeze is tempting to dogs and cats, but when this toxic substance is ingested, it’s potentially lethal. Pay attention to your neighbors’ cars and potential puddles on your street, and make sure your pets stay clear of it.

4. Find out if your pet needs sunscreen. Some pets, particularly those with short fine hair and pink skin, can also be susceptible to sunburn. Talk to your veterinarian about which types of sunscreen are safest on your pet’s skin, and follow up by routinely applying sunscreen as part of your summer routine. Do not use sunscreen or insect repellents that are not designed specifically for use on animals. The ASPCA says ingesting certain sunscreens can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy in pets.

5. Practice water safety. As with other aspects of summer pet care, water safety is all about thinking ahead. Although it's fun to bring your pet to the beach or pool to stay cool together, always keep a close eye on your pet when they’re in or near the water. Even a strong swimmer could have trouble getting out of a pool, or get trapped by ropes and other obstacles. For more risky summer adventures with your dog, like boating, look into a doggie life preserver. It could be an excellent investment for his safety.

Summer pet safety isn’t hard, it just requires some thought and attention. Watch over your pet the way you would a small child—protect them from too much heat, sun, and other summer dangers—and everything should be just fine

Friday, June 24, 2011

For all who support CP--Here's ANOTHER reason why

Written by CP's VP Intakes



Working rescue can be very rewarding, filling your heart with joy and pride. Working rescue can also be agonizing, filling your heart with sorrow and pain.

As with anything, there are two sides to the story, two different trains of thought. We have seen well intentioned legislation do more harm than good for the dogs. Now we once more find that people who were trying to help the dogs may have actually hurt them.

CP has been asked why we attend auctions as many rescues do not, and many rescuers lobbied to stop auctions. We believe if there is a Cairn that needs help, regardless of where it comes from, it deserves a chance at freedom and a happily ever after. This is what the United States of America stands for, what this country was built on--welcoming all people and giving them a chance for freedom and equality.

That opportunity was recently taken away for many dogs when a popular auction was shutdown. Yes, some of the dogs that go to auction didn't make it to rescues, BUT many did! Some of you have them in your family right now. Has anyone thought about what is to become of those dogs that did not make it to freedom? Where do the older, retired breeders now go? Or how about the puppy that wasn't quite healthy enough or chosen to become part of someone's family? What happens to them now?

This past Saturday, a little 7 month old male Cairn made his way into the loving arms of Col. Potter. We had been working on getting him for over a month. As a puppy, he had some skin irritation that was referred to as "hot spots" and never got a chance to find his own family. He's no longer a puppy, so no longer of value or sellable as a family pet. The dogs that are no longer needed or wanted are now being collected and sold to a LAB FOR RESEARCH. Yes, you heard me right, but let me say it once again -- THE OLDER, RETIRED BREEDER WHO CAN NO LONGER PRODUCE PUPPIES AND PUPPIES THAT WERE NOT ABLE TO BE SOLD ARE NOW BEING COLLECTED ENMASS AND SOLD AS LAB RESEARCH ANIMALS ...

I don't know about you, but when I learned this, I got chills, my skin started crawling, I felt sick to my stomack and my heart sank. What an absolutely awful way for these dogs to end their lives ...

Smoochie Poochie did not befall that fate thanks to CP! His name was donated by Tricia M. in memory of CP's very special Slater. I think Slater wanted to make sure this little boy had a chance to live a long, healthy life that he didn't.

Smoochie Poochie and all the others owe their lives to the generosity of those that support Col. Potter. We do what others can't, but we can't do it without you and your support. Please, when you look at this sweet little face, think about what could have happened to him, where he could be right now if it weren't for Col. Potter. Help us to help not only Smoochie Poochie but all the others out there that need us. Your donations and support truly mean the difference between life ... and death.

Friday's Funnies

Marmaduke


by Brad Anderson

Thursday, June 23, 2011

CP SAYS TIME FOR THE WILDFLOWER BUNCH TO BLOSSOM AND BLOOM

Written by CP's VP of Intakes

We have officially said good-bye to spring and hello to summer. Even in the farthest northern states, the snow and cold has been replaced with mild temperatures and flowers are starting to bloom. Certainly a welcome sight to see the beauty of spring and summer emerge. Three little Cairns will now be following that same path, transitioning from the dreary bitterness of their former lives to bask in the beauty and warmth that is Col. Potter while they learn to blossom and bloom in freedom.

Our Wildflower Bunch was a theme and names chosen by Geri P. who won a CP contest to name a group of furkids. Congratulations to Geri on winning and thanks for the wonderful names! And so I present the Wildflower Bunch:


Lupin: Male, red wheaten, born 6/15/08





Goldenrod: Female, wheaten, born 7/3/08





Bellflower: Female, cream, born 6/18/06




You will note all these furkids received a wonderful gift for their birthdays this year - FREEDOM! My THANKS to volunteer Monika for once again making the journey to help more Cairns into the CP family.

Please help me Welcome the Wildflower Bunch - we can't wait to enjoy watching your beauty unfold before us!!

Taming Tip from Taming the Wild Side Dog Training

Contributed by Terri Elkins, Owner / Trainer -




Note from from CP Blogger: We would like to thank Terri Elkins for allowing us to post her weekly taming tips on our blog. Her training facility is located in Fort Worth, Texas.


Each week we'll share a Taming Tip for you, your family and friends to do with your dog(s)! These tips will help teach your dog real world manners in a fun way. Leave us a comment and tell us how it went!

Taming Tip #15:

What behavior does your dog do that really bothers you? Pick a behavior that you would like for him to do and take a few minutes each morning and evening to teach a preferred behavior. For example, if your dog is jumping up, right before he jumps ask him to sit and then click and treat the sit. When your dog begins to offer the desired behavior instead of the unwanted behavior remember to reinforce with a treat!

Please follow this link to visit their blog!

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Dying Man's Final Wish to be Reunited With Dog comes true

KCRG TV NEWS
by Jill Kasparie, Reporter


CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – A community came together to grant a homeless man his last wish. That dying wish was to see his dog one more time. It was a simple request, but one that meant the world to him in his final days.

People involved with the man’s last wish describe it as something they’ll never forget. Now that he’s gone, they’ll always cherish the memories of the man and his best friend.

“She is full of energy and just brings so much love and energy into the home,” said the dog’s new owner, Kate Ungs. Meet Yurtie, also known as Yurt. She is getting used to her new home, adopted by Kate and Eric Ungs of Marion. “When we first saw her online in the bio it said, has a very compelling story, but you know, at the time those were just words,” said Eric Ungs.

Yurt used to live with a homeless Cedar Rapids man, 57-year-old Kevin McClain, in his car. But a month ago he became ill with lung cancer.

Paramedics rushed him to Mercy Medical Center and later to Hospice House. Yurt went to the animal shelter.

“In the transition of moving him over from our ambulance cot to the bed, he told me, 'I have a dog,'” said Area Ambulance Service Paramedic Specialist Jan Erceg.

Yurt's shelter was the same shelter where Kevin’s paramedic, Erceg, also volunteered.

“He said her name is Yurt and at that moment, that was my Aha! moment,” Erceg said.

From the day Yurt and Kevin were separated, he asked to see her.

It was his dying wish.

The Hospice Home, Ambulance Service and shelter teamed up to make it happen.

“And the moment he opened those eyes and saw that dog there was instant recognition and with Yurtie, she licked his arms, she licked his face,” Erceg said.

“It was a couple days later that Kevin did pass away here at the Hospice House. So it just really seemed to work so perfect,” said Dennis & Donna Oldorf Hospice House Patient Care Coordinator Brandi Garrett.

In the end, this companion was there for his owner, even in death. That’s a true companion that the Ungs know they’re now lucky to have.

“She’s our family and we’re her family, just a tight knit group,” Eric Ungs said.

Note from CP Blogger: It wonderful for everyone when it's possible for dogs to say goodbye to their owners and we wanted to share this story with those who hadn't seen it.

Wacky Wednesday!


Wednesday is the day to be WACKY! Each week we will showcase a terrierific cairn picture with an appropriate caption. If you have a terrierific cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture and caption for an upcoming "Wacky Wednesday" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

A big shout out to Gem for being our Wacky Wednesday model this week!

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

The Considerate Canine Chase Drive Training Tip

Lowcountry Dog Magazine


The Problem:

I need help with my dog who likes chasing bicycles and runners.

The Solution:

Having a dog who chases fast moving objects can be quite frightening, dangerous and embarrassing, but you certainly are not alone. Motion can trigger the prey/chase drive in many breeds. But it does not have to be a deal breaker.

Good management is vital while you work to help your dog develop a different pattern of behavior. Don’t allow your dog off leash where he is likely to be confronted with fast moving objects. When you see a bike approaching step behind a car, tree or put your body between your dog and the bike. Teach your dog a great sit/stay, come when called and watch me.

Please be sure that you practice these skills in a place with few distractions rather than expecting him to comply with your request in the presence of a bike or runner. As he learns to respond to your cues, take it on the road, practicing in more difficult places.

Using classical conditioning to change the way your dog responds to these objects can be most helpful. By pairing something that your dog loves ( cheese, chicken, hotdogs, etc.) with the approach of a bike, the bike begins to act as a predictor of good things to come.

It is helpful to have another person available while working with your dog.

Start with your dog near a bike that is stationary, feeding him treats for being close to the bike while not reacting.

Begin to move the bike slowly, just a few inches at the time while you feed your dog for being calm.

When he can handle this small amount of movement, begin to move the bike a little faster ( proceed in very small increments) while giving him treats. If he reacts to the movement, back up to the last point he was successful.

Gradually begin to increase the speed of the bike, treating the entire time.

The next step, have someone on the bike, then riding it slowly, adding speed as you proceed.

Be sure that you do not push your dog too fast, too far. If he begins to get worried or react, give him a break, possibly waiting until the next day. Your dog gets to decide what is comfortable for him. It takes time and patience to help a dog who is reactive to anything, the longer he has practiced this behavior the longer it may take to change it.

I hope that your walks will become more pleasant as you work together to change his reactions.

Happy Training!

If you have a question for Cindy Carter of Mindful Manners Dog Training, email your question to leah@lowcountrydog.com using the subject line: The Considerate Canine.

Cindy Carter has been training dogs in the Charleston area for the past 4 years, the last year as owner of Mindful Manners Dog Training. Cindy is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer, CGC evaluator for the AKC, and member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. She has written articles for local publications and been featured in several publications focusing on local business owners.

As the owner of two dogs with “issues” she is uniquely qualified to help owners develop and implement management and training plans. She brings commitment and empathy to owners struggling to help their dogs have better lives.

For more information about our training programs visit us at www.mindfulmanners.net

Eraser aint sayin


that Cindy is a bad cook but we looked into the dish washer today and we saw some of the chile beans had sprouted we thought they were kind of hard and crunchy

Monday, June 20, 2011

Joplin ASPCA event next weekend

ASPCA National News

Joplin Adoption Event has been set for Next Weekend

Since a tornado hit Joplin, Missouri, in late May, the ASPCA has helped rescue more than 1,000 animals who were affected by the disaster, and we’ve helped hundreds more find their way into their families’ arms again. Still, the devastation has left nearly 600 animals homeless, and they need your help.
As Joplin begins to pick up the pieces and rebuild, the ASPCA is committed to making sure every animal finds a great forever home. So we're joining the Joplin Humane Societyto host a very special adoption event on June 25 and 26.

This is your chance to make a difference for the Joplin community and its families and animals and to come home with a grateful new family member.
The dogs and cats vary widely in size, age, breed and personality ranging from chatty Siamese cats to darling Shih Tzus to tiny calico kittens to lovable Labs. But they do have one thing in common: They're sweethearts who are ready to be someone's new best friend.

Each dog has also undergone a SAFER evaluation by ASPCA Animal Behavior Center Vice President Dr. Pamela Reid and her team. The pups in our emergency shelter, the team reports, showed off myriad wonderful qualities during testing.

These animals have been through a lot, and they certainly deserve a new start, says ASPCA animal behaviorist Kristen Collins.The dogs evaluations revealed their different personalities and it's clear to me that there will be a perfect companion for just about anyone!

Here's what you need to know to attend the event:

What: Joplin adoption event, featuring nearly 600 cats, kittens, dogs and puppies who need new homes.
When: Saturday, June 25, and Sunday, June 26, from 10:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. on both days.
Where: Joplin Humane Society 140 E. Emperor Lane, Joplin, Missouri 64801
ASPCA | June 17, 2011

Sunday, June 19, 2011

COL. POTTER COMPASSION TO THE RESCUE ONCE AGAIN!!!

Written by CP's VP of Intakes

at the shelter


Any of you that suffer from allergies, seborrhea, or any type of skin allergy or condition know exactly how itchy, sore, uncomfortable and miserable this can be. Now imagine having no medical attention, nothing to help you, itching so bad that you literally scratch yourself bloody and your skin turns black and hard. Personally, I can't even image what it must be like to endure this kind of pain and suffering.

Col. Potter received a plea from a shelter that had picked up a young female Cairn, or at least what they thought was a Cairn as a stray. Her skin condition was so bad she would literally SCREAM when she was touched. The shelter vet immediately started her on three different medications and prescribed every other day medicated baths to help her. While this has brought her some relief, her treatment and recovery will be long. Being a local shelter, they just knew they would not be able to find an adoptive home for her and sought rescue help to save her life.

Please welcome Dulcinea to the Col. Potter Family. She is estimated at 3 years old and despite all her pain and suffering, is a sweet, friendly, little girl weighing in at only 10lbs. Dulcinea was picked up from the shelter on Friday by Kenneth B. and taken to our vet for examination and further treatment until she travels to her foster home next weekend.

Dulcinea will be in our Guardian Angel Program. Her treatment will last months of medications, supplements and medicated baths. When she is finally strong enough and her immune system has been built back up, she will then need to be spayed and have a dental.

We thank the local shelter for not only contacting Col. Potter to help Dulcinea, but for getting her started on treatment and providing her some relief. I would also like to thank Kenneth B. for dropping everything on Friday to make the trip to pick-up Dulcinea.

The photo album shows pictures of Dulcinea when she arrived at the shelter and when she arrived at our vet this past Friday. Please consider helping Dulcinea become the beautiful little Cairn girl we all know is there by supporting her on the Guardian Angel Program.

Dulcinea, welcome to the CP family where we will take care of you with gentle and loving hands ...


at the vet

Sunday Sweets - Father's Day Special Edition!

Sunday is full of SWEETS! Each week we will showcase the sweeter side of Cairns. If you have a sweet filled cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture for an upcoming "Sunday Sweets" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)


Neha, Zander, Bea and Dwight



Murphy and Phil



Tony and MacKenzie



Tasha and Dave


Mike and foster Kisu


Kayla says 'Wake up Dad, I wants to pway!


Wookie, Missy, Tess,Brian, Gabby, Rocky, Lucy (ears only)



Shammie and Steve

Sarut and Michael



Gem and Jeff

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Welcome Beckett

Written by a CP Intakes volunteer



Please help welcome CPs new boy, Beckett. This sweet boy is four years old, and initial reports from Foster Mom are as follows:
This little boy is a lovebug with the most beautiful brown eyes. He has been playing with one of his toys and danced in circles when I was getting the food ready. He loves people and has already rolled over for a belly rub and groans with pleasure. He's kept his belly band dry. He's not sure what to think of my cats, but did not chase when I said no. He is just adorable with those Yoda ears. He is just a sweetheart.

Sweet Beckett- we are glad you are here! Welcome!

Eraser and Cindy U Busy week in Inwood , the rest of the story


Cindy U and Eraser
the wedding cake
This being the week befor a Scottish wedding the banns of marrage being said,the happy couple will do all the traditional things from the old days,creelingof the groom,giving of crockery and carrots,the feet washing and the popularchantie jumping,even the sgeadasachadh boy will the city hall look nice with thenew whitewash on it.

best of all is the hen and the rooster parties, i suspect big red and inky fingers will have the mayor in quite a state of disrepair tillthat night is over, we all want to thank everyone for the well wishes and goodwords for the happy couple and the wedding gifts are very pretty that they haverecieved and we thank you for them.

We wish Eraser and Cindy U many years of wedded bliss!

Friday, June 17, 2011

What to know when traveling with your pet



Summer vacation is no longer just for two-legged travelers. Room service menus for Fido, massages for over-stressed terriers and tabbies, cushy beds for canines: many hotels have been ratcheting up the pet amenities. Best Western has even hired Cesar Millan of National Geographic Channel’s “Dog Whisperer” to be the chain’s pet travel expert.

The problem is getting your pet to the destination. In recent years, transporting pets on commercial flights has grown more complicated — and more expensive. All major carriers have significantly raised the fees they charge for bringing pets onboard, matching, or in some cases, surpassing, the $100 surcharge each way they typically charge for children flying alone. Fees vary depending on whether the pet flies under your seat, or as checked baggage or cargo, which involve extra handling. American, Delta, United and Continental charge $125 each way for pets in the cabin. United charges the most for pets traveling as checked baggage: $250 each way or $500 round trip.

Pet safety has also become a more pressing issue. Incidents of animals being lost, injured or dying have recently risen. Thirty-nine animals died while flying aboard commercial jets in the United States last year, compared with 22 in 2009, according to the Department of Transportation. Thirteen were injured and five were lost. Delta was responsible for a significant portion of the increase, with 16 deaths and 6 injuries in 2010, compared with 3 deaths and no injuries the previous year.

While those numbers are a small percentage of the hundreds of thousands of animals flown by the airlines each year, they expose the dangers that pets may face while traveling. Not that airlines don’t anticipate risks. Carriers typically will not accept pets as checked baggage or cargo when the temperature is forecast to exceed 85 degrees or fall below 20 degrees at any location on the animal’s itinerary. Also, many airlines will not accept snub-nosed pets, like bulldogs or Persian cats, as cargo since they are prone to breathing problems. Delta, for instance, which reported several bulldog fatalities last year, has changed its policy and now bans the breed from its planes.

Mixed breeds can also be turned away as Bruce Max Feldmann learned when he and his 70-pound mutt, Chicha, an American Staffordshire terrier cross, showed up at the American Airlines ticket counter for a flight from San Francisco to León, Guanajuato, Mexico, earlier this year. When he called the airline to confirm the reservation, he was told that the only requirements for his dog were that the carrier and animal meet a 100-pound weight limit and that the pet’s vaccinations be current. But the check-in agent said that not only was his dog on the list of restricted breeds, but that the pet carrier was also too big for the plane.

“I was shocked and angry,” said Mr. Feldmann, a retired veterinarian from Berkeley, Calif., who was rebooked the next day on a United flight to Los Angeles, where he transferred to an Alaska Airlines flight to Guadalajara, a three-hour drive from León. The ordeal ended up costing him an extra $978 ($528 for a last-minute, first-class ticket on Alaska, and $450 for a car from Guadalajara to Guanajuato). American points out that it lists restricted breeds and carrier dimensions on its Web site under Traveling with Pets.

Despite such inconveniences, airlines say they are going out of their way to be pet friendly. Delta has climate-controlled holding areas for pets shipped as cargo that are connecting at its hubs in Atlanta, Cincinnati, Dallas and Salt Lake City. JetBlue has a frequent-flier program for pets called JetPaws that allows customers to earn extra miles when flying with a pet. And last year Frontier Airlines, in response to demand, began accepting small pets in the passenger cabin for the first time for a fee of $75 each way. Previously it had transported pets only as baggage.

If you are considering putting your pet on a plane, here are a few tips to smooth the process.

Make sure you have the right carrier

Requirements vary by airlines and size of plane, so make sure you know what those requirements are before you arrive at the airport. Delta says maximum carry-on kennel dimensions are determined by your flight, so you must contact reservations to determine the appropriate size. The maximum size for cabin pet carriers on American is 19 inches long by 13 inches wide by 9 inches high. Animals must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down in a natural position in the kennel. Sherpa Pet Group, known for its pet carriers (from $40 to $156) offers a program that guarantees that its carriers are compliant with airline rules and will refund the cost of your airline flight and your pet’s travel fee to those who sign up a Flygob.com.

Book early

Airlines limit the number of pets in the cabin, so don’t wait until the last minute to book.s

Prepare your pet for travel

Cesar Millan suggests taking the time to acclimate your pet to the carrier by placing it on the floor of the car so the pet can feel the vibration as it will on a plane. Mr. Millan also recommends using lavender oil as an “association scent” to help the pet relax on the plane. At feeding times and before walks, place a drop of the oil on your hands and let your dog pick up the scent. Once onboard, “the positive association will allow him to calm down and remain relaxed,” Mr. Millan explained. Finally, Mr. Millan said, take your dog for an extra-long walk or run to help drain his energy before the flight. “The more tired he is,” Mr. Millan said, “the more likely he will be to sleep and relax during the flight.”

Check out Pet Airways

Based in Delray Beach, Fla., Pet Airways began offering pet-only flights in 2009 and currently serves nine destinations across the United States, including Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and Fort Lauderdale. The airline recently announced plans to fly to Orlando, Fla.; St. Louis; Houston; Austin, Tex.; and Dallas this summer. Pets fly in a climate-controlled passenger cabin, outfitted with individual crates instead of seats, where a flight attendant checks on the animals every 15 minutes. Fares begin at $99 each way from New York to Baltimore, $199 from New York to Chicago and $249 from New York to Fort Lauderdale. After landing, pets are given a potty break, and can be picked up by their owners at the airline’s Pet Lounge at the airport.

Give your pet its own vacation

There are a growing number of kennels (including some near airports) with upscale pet amenities from bone-shaped wading pools to pet cams so that owners can log onto the Web and catch a glimpse of their cat or dog at play. Best Friends Pet Care Inc., a chain of 42 boarding centers in 19 states across the country, offers tiered accommodations from standard rooms (about $30 a night for dogs and $19 for cats) to V.I.P. suites ($60 to $70) complete with flat-screen TVs, webcams and a roster of add-ons like chewy treats for dogs ($2), cookies and milk for cats ($4) or cuddling ($8 for 10 minutes). Similarly, PetSmart, the pet-store chain, offers PetsHotels, equipped with Poochy Cots, TVs tuned to animal shows and special ventilation systems so the dogs and cats don’t smell one another. The average boarding rate is about $30 a night for dogs and $17 a night for cats.

This story, " What To Know When Traveling With Your Pet," originally appeared in the New York Times.
Copyright © 2011 The New York Times

Friday Funnies

Citizen Dog


by Mark O'Hare

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Taming Tip from Taming the Wild Side Dog Training

Contributed by Terri Elkins, Owner / Trainer -




Note from from CP Blogger: We would like to thank Terri Elkins for allowing us to post her weekly taming tips on our blog. Her training facility is located in Fort Worth, Texas.


Each week we'll share a Taming Tip for you, your family and friends to do with your dog(s)! These tips will help teach your dog real world manners in a fun way. Leave us a comment and tell us how it went!

Taming Tip #14:

Do your dogs go nuts when someone comes to your door? Practice our Taming Tip and help them have good manners. Have your dog stay near the front door in either a sit or a down position while you slightly open and close the door. (Be careful so that your dog cannot get out.) Practice with your dog in short intervals throughout the day. Make sure you reward your dog for sitting or laying calmly by the door. When your dog is able to stay calmly by the door, start adding in other distractions such as someone knocking, or ringing the doorbell. Take baby steps so that your dog will succeed!!!!!

Please click here to visit their blog.

CP foster Princess Zoe arrives at her foster home

Contributed by Princess Zoe's foster mom



Here are some photos of the Princess. The Princess came with a box of ritzy toys and a bed big enough for a Great Dane. She has her Puppia harness and pink and black zebra stripped leash with matching hot pink poop bag holder and poop bags.

Apparently she has never seen leaves as she stalks them and barks at them. She also stalked a rug tag and barked at it and when I hid it, she pawed at the rug looking for it. She also destroyed two seedlings, turned over a large planter, and stalked and barked at a birdbath. They must not have these things in the Big Apple. So I guess you could say she is settling in nicely.

Princess Zoe is being fostered in Virginia and after her evaluation period she will be available for adoption. You can click here to see all of the cairns available now.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

New Pet-Saving Firefighter Tool

Conributed by a CP Volunteer



I saw this story and thought everyone would enjoy reading it. There is a nifty picture of a Cairn Terrier wearing this pet oxygen mask.

Firefighters try out a pet oxygen mask adapter Wednesday on Shelby, a Cairn terrier, during a demonstration at Clark County Fire Station No. 18 on East Flamingo Road. Invisible Fence, a company that sells pet products, is donating the adapters to all fire departments in Clark County through Project Breathe. The masks will help save lives of pets rescued from fires.

Note from CP Blogger: We applaud the efforts of Invisible Fence in donating these adapters but want to caution owners of cairn terriers that CP does not recommend this type of containment for cairns as they will take the 'hit' to escape but not to come back.

Wacky Wednesday!


Wednesday is the day to be WACKY! Each week we will showcase a terrierific cairn picture with an appropriate caption. If you have a terrierific cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture and caption for an upcoming "Wacky Wednesday" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

A big shout out to Sarut and her 'dad' for being our Wacky Wednesday models this week!

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

CP foster Corky has been chosen!

Contributed by Corky's foster mom



It is with real mixed feelings that I share with all of Corky's loving aunties and uncles that he has been chosen by a family.The family lives in Canada. His Mommy and Daddy like to camp and hike and kayak so Corky will have lots of fun in his new life. Man are we going to miss this little boy!!!!!

They originally said they'd get him at the end of the month because his new daddy recently had some surgery he had to recuperate from. Now they're coming the 20th....ACK! That's not the end of the month. They're getting antsy because Corky is such a great little guy. They've enlarged one of his photos and posted it on their refrigerator and everyone is eager to meet our Corky.

I didn't get any answer when I asked if they have a good digital camera, know how to use it, and know how to send photos in emails. I am going to write again and tell them this is an***absolute*** requirement. If they don't know now they'd better get hopping!!!

We'd all like to see updates on this sweet little guy. Thanks to CP for saving Corky and to his foster mom and dad for helping him with his skin issues. He looks and feels so much better now.

If you would like to help CP continue to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome cairn terriers, please click here.

Use Caution with big dogs in pick up trucks

Contributed by a CP Volunteer

Not that it will be news to everyone, but be careful of reaching out to pet teddy bear looking dogs in pick up trucks in parking lots.

(Note from CP Blogger - this photo is for illustration purposes only - it is NOT the dog at Costco)

I was at Costco today and after putting my groceries away, I was taking the cart to a cart corral. As I was walking away toward the corral, I simultaneously heard a deep bark and a startled outcry. The barking continued with deep, serious woofs and when I turned aroundt to see what had prompted the noises, I saw one woman leaning forward and holding her arm straight down with her hand left limp and it was showing some red from blood. Her friend was looking at her with great concern. I didn't really have anything to offer except maybe going in to Costco to page the person with the dog, but the unhurt woman got a sheet of newspaper from her trunk and wrapped her friends hand and lower arm in it and looked like they were going into the Costco. I watched them a little more, but they weren't looking around for assistance, so that was that.

After putting the cart away, I stopped by the spot where the bleeding woman had been standing to confirm that there was blood on the ground and there was, at least a couple dozen drops. I walked to my car on the other side of the pick up truck and watched the dog. He once again just looked like a big, furry bear. Looked like it had a lot of Chow Chow, though probably a mix. It must have turned from a friendly looking furball into a aggressive biter in a flash. The truck was set up in contractor style with bed racks installed. It was well protected though it wasn't obvious from the dogs outward mannerisms.

Nothing new here. Just a reminder that it pays to be careful and not assume anything.

Monday, June 13, 2011

Princess Zoe graces CP with her presence!

Written by a CP Intakes volunteer


Is she CUTE or what??? Princess Zoe is a 1 year old owner surrender. In a former home, the “princess” and another young female hated each other, so a few months ago she was re-homed with a friend of the family. This friend didn’t realize how much exercise a young cairn needs and couldn’t provide it due to health issues. So she contacted us for help.

Huge thanks to Mary Ellen for rearranging her schedule and making a long and difficult drive to pick up Princess Zoe.

Rumor has it that the photo doesn't do her justice and that Princess Zoe is even cuter in person!