From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Update 9)

We've all followed the journey of Flopsy, also know as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home thanks to her Foster Mom, Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors. (To read Rusty's journey from a pauper to a princess written by her Foster Mom click here.) Rusty started the next chapter of her life in January 2008 when she was adopted by her Forever Mom, Sheryl. Not only did Rusty get her chance at "happily ever after" she also got a new name! Rusty is now known as Maisie and lives with her brothers Murry and Micha. Maisie's story continues thanks to updates from her Forever Mom. (To read previous updates click here.)

7/17/08 - Maisie update from her Foster Mom

Today, I arrived in Verona, NY for a 3-day Col. Potter fundraising event. One might wonder why I flew clear across the country to attend. Well, one of the biggest reasons was so I could see Maisie again! Sheryl is driving up to NY with Murry, Maisie, and her mother, Cassie. I checked into the hotel and called Sheryl, they were almost at the hotel! I could hardly contain my excitement to see her and Maisie again.

When they arrived, Maisie and Murry were safely contained in their traveling crates. Sheryl and I said our “Hello’s” and I met her charming mother. Then, my attention turned to the backseat of the car. There was my little princess. Would she remember me? After all, it’s been over six months since her adoption. I said her name and she looked right at me! I could see in those eyes, that there was some recognition. Sheryl got checked into her room and a little later, I went to her room to visit. Maisie got into her crate and so I sat on the floor and reached my arm inside to pet her. She didn’t tense up, she seemed to enjoy the pets. The thing that got to me the most were her eyes; they looked so soft. Also, I immediately noticed that she was no longer flicking her head back and forth, looking for an escape. I was amazed at her transformation! Of course, I got teary-eyed, thinking that Maisie is finally accepting being a pet. I was so elated.

7/18-19/08

The next two days were busy at the NY CRAP (Cairn Rescue Awesome Party), but I managed to escape for a little while and spend time with Maisie and Sheryl. It was so wonderful to hold my sweet little girl, again. There were close to 100 Cairns there, and nearly that many people. Maisie was doing so well. She was trotting around the dog yard with the other Cairns. There was a little kiddy pool in the yard that had been turned over, but it didn't stop Maisie from trying to "swim!" She loves the pool!


She and her Cairn brother, Murry seemed to stick close together, so sweet. When it got to be too overwhelming for them, they found a little corner of the yard, with some tall plants and hid in there.

A couple of huge things that I noticed; when Sheryl went to put the leash on Maisie, she actually walked up to her! This is truly a miracle. The other thing, when Sheryl would leave the dog yard, Maisie would look for her. It was so evident the love that Maisie has for Sheryl and vise-versa. Murry and Maisie seem to compliment one another, as they are both so quiet and calm. They like to lay in the same crate together, it is really cute to watch them.


7/20/08

Today was the last day of the event. After brunch, Sheryl had gone inside the house to ask a question and left Maisie in the dog area. I couldn’t believe my eyes, Maisie was trying to climb the stairs on the outside of the staircase, trying to get into the house where Sheryl had gone!


Soon, we said our good-byes and once again, the tears came, but they were tears of happiness for my once terrified puppy mill foster. She truly has found her happily-ever-after. I am so thankful that Sheryl wanted Maisie to be a part of her life and continue to show her what it is like to be loved and not abused in a puppy mill, pumping out puppies for profit. I took some pictures as Sheryl, Maisie, and Murry left the event. You can see Maisie looking to her mom for guidance, just precious.


This concludes the series "From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog". Thank you Karen and Sheryl for allowing us to join Rusty/Maisie on her journey. Happy Forever little one! You definitely deserve it!!

From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Update 8)

We've all followed the journey of Flopsy, also know as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home thanks to her Foster Mom, Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors. (To read Rusty's journey from a pauper to a princess written by her Foster Mom click here.) Rusty started the next chapter of her life in January 2008 when she was adopted by her Forever Mom, Sheryl. Not only did Rusty get her chance at "happily ever after" she also got a new name! Rusty is now known as Maisie and lives with her brothers Murry and Micha. Maisie's story continues thanks to updates from her Forever Mom. (To read previous updates click here.)

July 14, 2008 - Maisie update from Maisie! (With a little help from her Forever Mom.)

Hi Mommy Karen - I have lots to tell you! Where to start? I have a new 'toy' - a big blue swimming pool! I luv it. I can hop in and out whenever I go outside. Sometimes I hop in even before there's any water in it - I can be such a silly girl. Murry doesn't like to dog paddle so I have it all to myself.

We've had some new people in the house - there was a man named Jim and he was nice. He held my rope on our walks, but I had to keep an eye on him just in case he tried any funny stuff. I think he was up to something, and since he knew I was watching him, he left town a few days ago. Now it's just the usual gang and Mommy Sheryl's mommy - she speaks to me in a very soft voice and she moves kind of slow so I know I can get away from her if I have to.

Mommy Sheryl said we almost had 'Murder & Mayhem' in the front yard. Murry and I were helping with the flower garden - Mommy Sheryl crawls around and pulls up big clumps of something she calls weeds - Murry and I dig lots of holes and then we take a nap because that's hard work. Something called a squirrel decided to pay us a visit - he came down the tree and onto the grass - we chased him on to the fence and got him so confused he jumped back into the yard. We almost got him, but just in time he ran up a big tree - I jumped and jumped to get him, but he went too high for me - I can only jump up 6 feet. Let me tell you - that was really fun. I hope he comes back again. Mommy Sheryl said we were soooo fast.

On Sunday we went to a pool party and I met lots of new people. It was a little scary, but I sat under Granny's chair and then I even said hello to some people. Everything was going great until the end of the party when I decided to walk on the pool cover - how did I know it was just floating on the water? I did a couple of excellent dog paddles and since Mommy Sheryl had my leash and I had my harness, we did a quick exit. Murry misses out on all the fun.

Next weekend we are going to a really BIG party in some place called New York - Mommy Sheryl says that I'm going to have a very special surprise when we get there - I'm so excited - I love to go in the car - and we're even going to have a picnic on the way to New York -I think that's a special kind of puppy treat - yum, yum.

We'll that's it from here - I'm having a great summer.

Luv and kisses – Maisie

To Be Continued ...

From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Update 5)

We've all followed the journey of Flopsy, also know as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home thanks to her Foster Mom, Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors. (To read Rusty's journey from a pauper to a princess written by her Foster Mom click here.) Rusty started the next chapter of her life in January 2008 when she was adopted by her Forever Mom, Sheryl. Not only did Rusty get her chance at "happily ever after" she also got a new name! Rusty is now known as Maisie and lives with her brothers Murry and Micha. Maisie's story continues thanks to updates from her Forever Mom. (To read previous updates click here.)

April 24, 2008 - Maisie update from her Forever Mom

Now that it's almost Spring, our little girl is assuming the guise of 'Squirrel Girl' a true super hero - no squirrel too far away, too small or too high up in a tree. Squirrel Girl could leap tall buildings in a single bound (potentially), but is content to leap around the yard and stare into the trees on the off chance that there will be an up close and personal encounter.

And today, just to spice things up, we had a pair of mallard ducks (male and female) in the yard. We were going out to the car to go to the park, and fortunately, because I know how our little girl has such excellent eyesight, I had a very firm grip on her rope and had it wrapped around my hand several times, so that when she spotted the mallards, she couldn't just bound right over to them. It took me a minute to see what she was seeing. I think the ducks were eating food that had spilled from the bird feeder, but it's quite unusual for them to come up from the beach.

We've been trying something new at the park, now that we've been going there for 3 months and she knows it's safe. I used to tell everyone “don't look at her; don't say her name”. Now they are all talking to her and saying her name so that she can learn no harm comes from that. She gets those really big eyes, but is less fearful.

And, here's an example of something good coming from something that was not good. There is man at the park who carries a bag of treats for his dog, and insists on giving them out to all the other dogs in spite of being asked not to. About 3 weeks ago he gave Murry a treat that lodged in his throat. Poor Murry couldn't swallow, but he was able to breathe. People were suggesting a Heimlich maneuver, fingers down the throat, etc. I was just watching him as he was not very agitated and was trying to swallow. Then one woman came over and said she does 'energy work' with animals, and maybe she could help. I agreed and she put her hands on Murry's back, toward his tail. She gently massaged him for about a minute and then he threw up the treat and his breakfast - and was fine after that. In talking with her I learned that she is a Reiki Master - Reiki is an ancient and traditional form of energy balancing originating in Japan. Anyway, we talked about Maisie and she thought she might be able to help, so this past Monday she came over and gave her a treatment. It was easy, I just held Maisie on my lap, and she gently touched her for about 20 minutes. Maisie didn't mind, although she looked at the woman a couple of times, and then she put her head down and gave a big sigh. I wasn't sure what to expect form this, but thought it was worth trying. I was so surprised the next day when I noticed that Maisie was acting less fearful, and also seemed more relaxed. The next day we got to the park a bit later than usual, so folks were finished with their walks and just visiting at the picnic tables. I went over, and put Maisie up on the table and there were 5 men sitting at the table. I sat right in front of her and even with the men talking and laughing, she wasn't acting afraid - she didn't try to get down, and even looked around a bit at them. So on Saturday she's going to have another treatment.

The other thing that happened after this is that she initiated some play with Murry in the yard. We also had a visitor, a little schnauzer, and she was running with him and Murry a few times.

So, all good things, I think; very small steps, but all progress. Murry seems more interested in her, so that is good. The kitty really likes her, and of course, I'm madly in love with her!

To Be Continued ...

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From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Entry 6)

Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors, has graciously allowed us access to her diary documenting the journey of Flopsy, also known as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home. The diary will be broken up into short sections and posted. Check back for new entries in the series entitled "From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog". (Previous Journal Entries: Entry One, Two, Three, Four, Five)

5/4/07
A Glimmer of Hope! This afternoon, Tony called me at work to tell me that Rusty ZOOMED for about 20 feet, twice!! He said it was quick, but for a minute, she wasn’t pacing, but ZOOMING! When I got home from work, I went outside for a while with the dogs, no zoomies for me. When we returned home from dinner/shopping, I took everyone outside for a quick potty. I saw her zoom!! One more tiny step in the right direction. This evening, I was telling Tony that Rusty is going to learn to trust us and then she will have to start all over, when she is adopted. At least I know Rusty will not be nearly as terrified as she was when she first arrived with us.

Rusty is going to need a very patient and understanding adoptive home. I will need to ask them if they are willing to give her lots of time and work with her on gaining her trust. A person who expects instant gratification, will not be the right one for Rusty. Also, a person who expects Rusty to act like a “normal” Cairn, will be disappointed. Rusty needs someone with a true “rescue spirit,” not someone who just wants to adopt a Cairn. If I let Rusty go to a home with high expectations, I will have failed her, as a foster mom. I am on the side of my foster kids and know them better than anyone else, therefore I know what’s best for them.

I only wished every adoptive home was like me and could accept these little mill kids for who they are and not forget where they came from. Years of suffering and neglect cannot be erased in a matter of months and it will not disappear all together. I think that is what makes my mill babies special to me.

5/5/07
I am noticing that Rusty is keying into our fur kids’ behaviors more and more. This afternoon, while I was laying on the grass, Rusty went over to where Starry was, wagged her tail at Starry, then proceeded to watch what Star was doing. She was eating grass, so Rusty decided to give it a try, too!

When all of the girls were peeing on top of each others’ pee, in the grass, Rusty joined in and did the same.

When I was giving the kids some egg today, Rusty kept peeking around the kitchen island. She wants so badly to join in, but the poor little thing is so emotionally torn on whether to trust or not.

5/6/07
Boy, does this girl love to take rides! This evening, we went to get an ice cream cone and took the dogs with us. Rusty likes to look out the window, watching the world go by. Her favorite spot is next to the door. She just seems to forget about all of her worries, when she is in the truck.

Day-by-day, Rusty is getting easier to catch. We don’t have to play tag nearly as long as we did in the beginning.

Rusty still doesn’t like to be left in her crate, when I leave the bedroom. She makes sure her protest is loud and clear.

I truly believe that Rusty is going to be ready for adoption much sooner than I originally thought. Especially, if the right home comes along for her. This morning, when Tony was called into work, I put britches on the girls and let them into the carpeted living area with me, while I watched a movie. Today was the first time Rusty relaxed in the L.R. and laid down on the large dog bed in front of the hearth. I couldn’t believe it, she was actually relaxing! We have done this before, but she paced in and out of the L.R. the entire time I was in there. Now, Rusty would still jump up and run away, if I made any movements. However, she would return to her spot and lay down again. She really wants to be a part of the group, but fear and lack of trust, continue to pull her away.

To Be Continued ...

From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Entry 14)

Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors, has graciously allowed us access to her diary documenting the journey of Flopsy, also known as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home. The diary will be broken up into short sections and posted. Check back for new entries in the series entitled "From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog". (Previous Journal Entries: Entry One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven, Twelve, Thirteen)

9/28/07
We had our second class last night with Flopsy/Rusty and Starry Night. Our lessons were to go down, drop it, and loose leash walking. Rusty did quite well walking around the store. She only had problems when we encountered other people, then she would try to flee or hide behind me. When I felt she had enough, we went back to the training room and I practiced her looking at me. She was looking at me much longer this time, and of course we have been practicing all week. Another employee saw us and came into the room. I explained Rusty's situation and asked her to give Rusty a treat. Rusty took it from her and even moved her nose back to her hand and licked her fingers. We did this twice.

When everyone returned to the room, we began our other lessons. Rusty is just much too concerned with everything going on around her to attempt any of the lessons. We try, but she just doesn't understand. She did seem much more relaxed while she was in the room, so maybe in a few more weeks, her anxiety level will lower even more. She did ace the "leave it or drop it" lesson! Rusty wouldn't even touch the chicken rawhide!! We were told to give it to them and give the command "drop it" and while doing so, have the exchange treat at their nose, so they can drop it and take the treat. I don't think we have to worry about her picking up things she isn't supposed to pick up!!

Also this week, I spent 3 evenings hand stripping all of her dead hair off of her. She was such a trooper!! I have attempted to do little bits of grooming here and there, but never a total body stripping. I figured she's been here long enough to be able to handle it now. It's hard to get used to her without all of that hair, she looks so tiny. She has such a wonderful Cairn coat, though.

10/11/07
It's been a while since I've written, but that doesn't mean Rusty hasn't progressed. We just completed our fourth class at PetSmart. Rusty continues to make slow, but positive progress. The same employee has been giving her treats every week we have class. This time, Rusty did not hesitate to take the treat from her. We were so excited! Rusty walked around the store with foster dad really nicely.

One thing we noticed Rusty do when we were in the truck last night, is she stretched her seat belt far enough that she was able to put her front paws on the console between us! She stood there like she has done this all of her life, and just looked straight ahead out of the windshield, like a "normal" dog.

Earlier this week, we noticed a red, inflamed spot on the top of her foot, between her toes. Rusty is the best dog ever at the vet's office. Dr. Perry wanted to open the spot and see if he could find something inside it. We came up empty. He said that in all likelihood, it had already worked its way out. They bandaged up her foot and it looked like a club! We removed the bandage this morning and it looks like it is healing well.

11/12/07
Tonight, I spoke with Sheryl, who is interested in adopting Rusty. Wow, what a lady!! She is a true blessing for my little girl. She is just what I have been praying for, in a forever home. I have given my blessings for this adoption to proceed. Sheryl is planning on flying from Boston to Arizona to pick her up.

Of course, now the tears have come. It is such a bittersweet time for me. On one hand, I am thrilled that Rusty's journey is almost complete, but on the other, I am sad she will be leaving. I had hoped she would be living closer to us, but it is a small sacrifice to make for her happiness. In spite of her shyness, she has been such a wonderful girl to foster. I love her so much, but I know that it is my time to step aside and let her go.

To Be Continued ...

From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Entry 5)

Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors, has graciously allowed us access to her diary documenting the journey of Flopsy, also known as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home. The diary will be broken up into short sections and posted. Check back for new entries in the series entitled "From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog". (Previous Journal Entries: Entry One, Entry Two, Entry Three, Entry Four)

4/29/07
Rusty has been with us for 2 weeks now. To an outsider, she probably looks like a terrified dog, but I am seeing a few subtle changes. Rusty isn’t pacing around the kitchen/yard nearly as much now. Her eyes don’t look like saucers of fear, they are a little more settled. She seems to be relaxing just a bit more. I also got a D.A.P. refill and I believe this has helped.

We got out the plastic kiddy pool, since the temps are rising and Starry and McDuffy enjoy soaking after a walk. This morning, I let the dogs outside for about 10 minutes. I heard someone rubbing/rolling outside the slider door and thought is was Starry or McDuffy, but no it was Rusty! She had gotten in the pool! I don’t know if she got in on purpose or not; I’m hoping it was on purpose.

4/30/07
We took Rusty to the vet this afternoon to have her ears checked for infection. It turns out she has yeast and bacteria in both ears. She also has some “cauliflower” in her ears from repeated infections, while in the mill. Rusty will be on prednisone, antibiotics, and an ear ointment for 10 days. We will take her back for a re-check to see if some of the swelling has gone down. Dr. Stack also cleaned her ears really well, as they were quite filthy.

Rusty did really well in the truck on the ride there and back. I think she will be a great traveler.

5/3/07
Rusty continues to enjoy her walkies. She is afraid if she sees another person on the walk, but she perseveres.

Today, a new stuffed toy came in the mail with a couple of things I ordered. Holly had been playing with it outside and left it on the patio. Tony and I were laying on the grass with our pups. I happened to sneak a glance over on the patio when I heard a toy squeak. It was Rusty! She suddenly picked up the toy Holly had and shook it around. I wanted to scream, I was so excited! As soon as Rusty saw me looking at her, she dropped it. That was the first time she has picked up a toy! She is really watching and learning from our crew, how to act like a dog. It is really awesome to be a part of her transformation, as slow as it may be. I think Rusty’s ears are starting to feel better. She’s been on meds for four days now and been such a good girl for her ear drops.

Rusty still likes the kiddy pool. She has gotten in it several times. I think it’s neat she has found something, I believe, she likes. Rusty gave a couple of wags of the tail to Holly today when they were sniffing around in the grass. She is really starting to connect with our fur kids.

To Be Continued ...

From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Entry 4)

Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors, has graciously allowed us access to her diary documenting the journey of Flopsy, also known as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home. The diary will be broken up into short sections and posted. Check back for new entries in the series entitled "From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog". (Previous Journal Entries: Entry One, Entry Two, Entry Three)

4/22/07
No changes today, in fact we had a little set-back in Rusty’s confidence. I am trying to teach her the word, “stop” so she knows when we stop on the leash, it also means stop off the leash.

Rusty is just one frightened and confused little girl. She is going to need a very patient and understanding adoptive home.

Rusty does not know the joy of toys or playing with the other dogs, yet. When Rusty is frightened, she will not take any treats from me, she turns her head away.

Rusty continues to wake me in the middle of the night, she does not like her crate and I think she’s afraid she will never get back out of it again.

Rusty continues to have no accidents in the house!

4/23/07
Today, I decided to leave Rusty out of the x-pen while we are at work. I left the door open to the pen, so she could go in and out of it while I was at work. When Tony got home from work, all was well, so I think Rusty has graduated from being in the pen all day.

Tony and I spent a lot of time laying on the grass this evening, playing with our fur kids. Rusty was avidly watching us. The minute she would notice us looking at her, she would scurry away. What was cute, is she was inching her way over to us and stood there for a few minutes. You can see the torment in her face, as I think deep down, she wants to join in with us.

We had a beach towel laying on the grass next to our larger blanket. My back was to the towel and Rusty can over and laid on the towel. She really wants to be a part of us.

We took Rusty for her first walk outside of the yard. Of course, she was double leashed for extra precaution, because I know we’d never catch her if she got away. Rusty’s walking practice in the backyard has really paid off; she did wonderfully!! I couldn’t believe how she would just trot along with everyone else. She only hesitated a couple of times, but there was no sign of struggle on the leash. This activity might just be the confidence builder she needs.

4/26/07
I decided to lay back a little with Rusty and not push her too much. I wanted her to just watch us interacting with the other dogs.

Rusty is getting a little easier to catch, but not by much. She still skitters away, until she finally gives up, knowing that we aren’t going to stop.

We have taken Rusty on walks the past couple of days and she is doing quite well. I am trying to build up her confidence with the walks.

Rusty has done well being left out of the x-pen with our dogs, while we are at work. She is using the doggy door to go outside and potty.

She still refuses to eat her meals in front of me, but I think that will change with more trust. McDuffy has tried to play with Rusty a couple of times, but she hasn’t a clue as to what he is doing and will move away from him.

This morning, Rusty came right in the door with the others, but she hasn’t done it again, since. I think she was as surprised as I was. I usually have to hide or remove myself at least 20’ before she will go in or out of the door.

To Be Continued ...

From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Entry 3)

Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors, has graciously allowed us access to her diary documenting the journey of Flopsy, also known as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home. The diary will be broken up into short sections and posted. Check back for new entries in the series entitled "From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog". (Previous Journal Entries: Entry One, Entry Two)

4/19/07
Well, new day and we are back at square one. Rusty seemed to forget what trust she gained yesterday.

She still didn’t mess in her pen when we were at work. After work, we got out the x-pen and set it up in the grass again. We laid in there for over an hour, then we took “walks” around the yard. I put Rusty back in the pen and groomed Holly, while she watched.

I forgot to mention that before I went in the pen with Rusty, I was in the house changing and checking emails. Rusty was whining and jumped over the x-pen! I think she could be a potential escape artist.

When we went back into the house, I put Rusty in her x-pen and she went to sleep in her bed.

I think the x-pen in the grass is going to have to be a part of our daily routine for quite a while. Whatever was done to Rusty in the mill had to be pretty bad, because she seems to have the spirit knocked out of her. She carries around a blank expression on her face and doesn’t wag her tail at anything.

One more note; I took cheese into the x-pen and Rusty would turn her head if I tried to give her a piece, so I put it on the towel and she ate it. I gave her a few pieces this way and she seemed to acquire a taste for it. I tried to hand feed her again, she looked away, then turned back, licked the cheese then gently took it and dropped it on the ground before eating it. It seems as though she doesn’t know how to manipulate the cheese in her mouth to eat it right after taking it from me. She repeated this a few times, before we ran out of cheese.

4/21/07
Rusty woke me early this a.m. When she wants out of the crate, she wants out. She went out and did her business. I was still tired, so I went back to bed. Rusty was upset and wanted to come in the room with me. I brought Starry, McDuffy, and Rusty back into the room and we all went back to sleep.

We took a drive to the vet’s office to have the buttons removed from her ear. Rusty did really well in the truck. She mainly sat and looked out of the window. She seemed to enjoy the ride. Dr. S. didn’t remove the buttons yet. She said it was too soon, so we will go back in a couple of weeks.

Back home, Rusty is still doing her pacing in the yard and kitchen, but it doesn’t appear as frantic. I think we are beginning to make real progress with trust. I believe spending all of the time with her in the x-pen has helped.

When Rusty was doing her trotting around the kitchen island, I called her as I approached. She ran the other way, so I turned and met her on the other side and spoke gently to her. She stopped and dropped to her belly and let me approach! I gave her lots of praise and scritches, then turned and walked away. I repeated this several times throughout the day. I am so pleased that she is finally stopping for me, even thought it’s not immediate.

Rusty is also continuing to reluctantly take treats from me. She really likes the cheese and bits of boiled chicken breast.

Rusty still hasn’t had a potty accident in the house! This may change as she develops more confidence, or maybe not!

To Be Continued ...

From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Entry 10)

Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors, has graciously allowed us access to her diary documenting the journey of Flopsy, also known as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home. The diary will be broken up into short sections and posted. Check back for new entries in the series entitled "From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog". (Previous Journal Entries: Entry One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine)

6/30/07
I put Rusty on the grooming table this evening and she did wonderfully. She let me work on her coat for 40 minutes. I even trimmed her nails.

7/1/07
This evening, I took Rusty outside to try and take some pictures of her. I had just cleaned the kiddy pool, but hadn’t filled it yet, because that is the first thing Rusty does (jumps in the pool), when she goes outside! I was sitting in the grass with MacKenzie, when suddenly, Rusty had this burst of energy and zoomed around the yard. It was the cutest thing to watch, and I got some great pictures of it, too.

I think Rusty continues to “test the waters” with her newly found freedom. It is so awesome to watch and be a part of her life. It’s going to be so hard to let her go, because I have been so focused on her, for so long. I’m just not going to know what to do with myself, when she’s adopted - although, it will be a great thing for Rusty.

I really think Rusty needs an adoptive home with a fenced yard, because she loves to explore and she has never had this before in her life. She would also do great with another canine, because this is how she has learned to become a pet. I think most of what Rusty has learned has been from our fur kids. She does lots of observing.

7/17/07-7/31/07
We took Rusty on a 2 week camping trip with us. She is an absolute “dream” traveler! Rusty of course, wore her seatbelt for added security.

On our second day, we arrived at Three Rivers, CA. On this day, we had a truly scary incident with Rusty. Tony had backed our trailer into our spot and was unhooking. I took each dog out to let them go potty, and then put them back in the truck, with their leashes on, but did not hook them back into their seatbelts. We had left the truck running with the A/C on to keep the dogs cool. As I was walking up to the office with Starry to pay, I heard Tony holler at me. When I looked back, I saw Rusty running towards me, her leash dragging!! Apparently, we had forgotten to set the window locks and one of our dogs had rolled down the back window. Rusty had jumped out!! My heart just dropped to my feet when I saw her. As soon as Rusty saw me look at her, she started running the other way, but then she saw Tony and went in a completely different direction! I was afraid to leave the road where I was standing, because this was the only way into the park and I feared if she got out, we would never catch her. A lady saw my panic stricken face and asked me what was wrong and I told her. She was nice enough to stay where I was so I could go help Tony. Tony was racing though RV sites, calling Rusty and telling her to “stop.” Finally, she got herself into a corner and Tony was able to pick her up. I think God was watching over us that day, because Rusty was in a total panic, when she realized she was out in the open.

From then on, we would always keep Rusty buckled in, had I done this after the potty break, she wouldn’t have escaped. I didn’t even think about something like this happening, because we were at our destination and just unhooking the trailer. All I kept thinking about was Sunny/Hannah’s escape.

Rusty did really great in our trailer. She was a little nervous being in a different setting, but relaxed a little, after several days.

Potty time was a little difficult on the leash, since she isn’t used to doing it outside of the yard. We set up an x-pen like a little yard and this made her more comfortable.

To Be Continued ...

From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Entry 8)

Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors, has graciously allowed us access to her diary documenting the journey of Flopsy, also known as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home. The diary will be broken up into short sections and posted. Check back for new entries in the series entitled "From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog". (Previous Journal Entries: Entry One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven)

5/23/07
Tonight was the third night of play. This is so exciting! Something else Rusty has begun to do is come to the back part of the house when I take our dogs to the bedroom for bedtime. Usually, Rusty will stay in the kitchen area until they are crated, and then I would go out to the kitchen and pick her up and carry her back to the bedroom from the kitchen, but at least while I’m tending to the others, she gets curious enough to venture back there.

5/24/07
A nice birthday present for me this afternoon, when I looked outside the window, Rusty was laying on the grass, playing with a toy! Only MacKenzie was outside with her and she was actually watching Rusty. Rusty had a rubber toy MacKenzie had taken to the grass earlier. It was in her mouth, and she was tossing around her head a little. Then, Rusty turned over on her back with the toy still in her mouth and pawed at it with her front paws. This little one is simply amazing and I feel quite fortunate to be going through this process with her.

When Rusty stopped playing, she came trotting towards the house with what looked like a bounce in her step and a Cairn smile on her face. Tony and I both agreed that she looks so much more relaxed than she has ever looked before now.

5/28/07
Great things happened this evening when we went outside for final potty. Rusty had gotten one of the egg-shaped toys that our kids worship. She was rolling around in the grass with the ball in her mouth and would give it a little toss and grab it again. Spin in circles with the ball; just having a great time.

Holly and McDuffy started playing, so Rusty ran over to join them. The three of them rough and tumbled for quite some time. McDuffy ran over to the pool, jumped in, then jumped out and raced across the yard. Rusty was in hot pursuit after him! Her tail was high in the air and she had a huge smile on her face. McDuffy continued to zoom around the yard and Rusty zoomed after him. It was wonderful!! McDuffy would stop and roll and Rusty would play bow at him. Then McDuffy started to play with Rusty. This is a first, because he’s been laying back with her. It’s as if he could sense her apprehension. McDuffy and Rusty played rough and tumble together for a little while longer, and then it was over.

It was now time to go inside and go to bed. When we went back outside to get Rusty to come in (our daily routine), she seemed to go into one of her severe panic modes again. It was so strange, one minute she was as happy as a lark, the next minute, she was panic stricken. I’m wondering if it was a reaction to the over-stimulation and she didn’t know how to react when she came back down to earth.

To Be Continued ...

From A Pauper To A Princess - The Journey of a Puppy Mill Dog (Update 7)

We've all followed the journey of Flopsy, also know as Rusty, from the puppy mill to her forever home thanks to her Foster Mom, Karen, one of CPCRN's foster mentors. (To read Rusty's journey from a pauper to a princess written by her Foster Mom click here.) Rusty started the next chapter of her life in January 2008 when she was adopted by her Forever Mom, Sheryl. Not only did Rusty get her chance at "happily ever after" she also got a new name! Rusty is now known as Maisie and lives with her brothers Murry and Micha. Maisie's story continues thanks to updates from her Forever Mom. (To read previous updates click here.)

July 07, 2008 - Maisie update from her Forever Mom

It's been very interesting watching Maisie negotiate here at home now that there are more humans in the household. Jim was here for 10 days and flew back to Phoenix yesterday. I don't really think Maisie remembered him from her Gotcha Day when he drove me to your house, but she was not very nervous around him. When we went for walks, Jim took Maisie's leash and I had Murry - thought it would be good to have her break the routine a bit. She walked well - she loves her walks - but would look over her shoulder every once in while, casting dark looks, as if she couldn't quite believe that 'HE' was walking her. She did sit between us on the couch to watch TV a few times, and was relaxed enough to nap. She's so funny about some things - as skittish as she can be, when he was mowing the lawn with the very noisy gas mower, she would sit right in the mowing path and not even think about moving - I moved her indoors until he finished.

My mother who is 92 has had some health set backs, so has come to stay with me, and she loves the pups and kitty. Murry has taken up permanent residence next to wherever mom is - I have to 'chase' him out of her bedroom at night. In the change in our schedule, I haven't always remembered to bring Maisie upstairs. (I usually carry her up as the stairs are not carpeted and she doesn't do stairs - or so I thought!) Murry does the stairs, so a few times she found herself "abandoned" downstairs. A couple days of that and she'd had enough - she tried coming up 4-5 steps and then would go down. Now she takes the first 10 steps slowly, and then jet propels herself up the rest. She always seems kind of surprised that she made it up.

You'd think this would be a good thing, but I'm not so sure. She really doesn't like it when I'm out of sight, so if I go upstairs just for a quick trip - put laundry away, get something for mom, etc., Maisie is right there with me. I have to carry her down, as the steps are too slippery for her to navigate on her own. (I'm working on getting them carpeted.) In the meantime, I'm trying to decide if carrying all 17.4 pounds of her down the stairs 10 times a day can be counted as weight lifting?

She's very cautious around my mother. If mom is sitting in a room that she wants to pass through, she gives a couple little false starts - moves forward about 3 feet, and then retreats. Usually on the third try, you can almost hear her saying "I can do this." - and then she puts her head down and runs through the room just as fast as those little Cairn legs will carry her. She's a bit curious about mom, and I've seen her peeking around the corner to check her out. You know what a 'watcher' she is.

Her interdigital cyst is getting better - we're doing Epsom salts soaks 3 times a day. She's not licking it, or fussing with it, so I don't think it's painful or bothersome for her. (We weighed her at the vets last week when I took her in to have the cyst aspirated, and although she's gained 3 pounds since Jan, she's not too heavy - we can still feel her ribs and she has her little girly waist.)

To Be Continued ...