Dear waterlilly

[Irishgrrrl]

Date: 7/1/2010 2:28:59 PM
Author: Hudson_Hawk
D.O.G. we joke is a retriever in a chow''s body. He has the traits of a chow that we love (loyal, headstrong, etc) but loves our cats (bordering on thinking he is one), loves kids and other dogs, loves people-strangers and friends alike, is lazy and likes to sleep, will try and lick/kiss you to death, loves to be groomed and will let the groomers do just about anything with/to him, he''ll fetch, hates thunderstorms and is happy and jolly all around.

In fact, the only thing I can think of that he does NOT like is the scale at the vet''s office. It''s not even a raised scale, just a mat on the floor. But he refuses to go on it. Poor guy has a complex about his weight.

HH, it appears that D.O.G. and I have much in common!

 

[Puppmom]

Fetch is the one thing where Hollis is a TOTAL RR. If you throw a ball at him, he''ll just let it bonk him in the head! He does like to chase other dogs that are playing fetch though.

 

[sunnyd]

Date: 7/1/2010 2:28:59 PM
Author: Hudson_Hawk
D.O.G. we joke is a retriever in a chow''s body. He has the traits of a chow that we love (loyal, headstrong, etc) but loves our cats (bordering on thinking he is one), loves kids and other dogs, loves people-strangers and friends alike, is lazy and likes to sleep, will try and lick/kiss you to death, loves to be groomed and will let the groomers do just about anything with/to him, he''ll fetch, hates thunderstorms and is happy and jolly all around.

In fact, the only thing I can think of that he does NOT like is the scale at the vet''s office. It''s not even a raised scale, just a mat on the floor. But he refuses to go on it. Poor guy has a complex about his weight.

LOL. My mom''s male St. Bernard refused to get on an elevator. He was relieved from his therapy dog classes because of it. He was such a dufus.

 

[Prana]

Date: 7/1/2010 1:06:35 AM
Author: Haven
I love the pictures!

Girlface--I''m sorry for my rant. I really should have just said ''I don''t believe shelter dogs are for everyone because they often require so much special care. If you choose a reputable breeder, more power to you!''

Anyway, here''s a picture of my Bailee pup with her feline brother, Vince. I''ve posted this picture on here before, but I love it because you can see her irresistible pouty face. We think that the cats believe she is their personal heated pillow because they all sleep on her in the bed at night.

I just want to mush this face! Like grab it, put my face against it, and mush it up, she''s sooo cute!

 

[tigian]

I just wanted to say that I know people have their reasons for doing things and I try my best not to judge. But I also wanted people to know that it is possible to adopt dogs that have had traumatic pasts and they can be rehabilitated and live happily with other animals and people, with little or no psychological damage. Michael Vick's dogs are a perfect example. All 51 dogs were supposed to be immediately put down, but with time, love, and effort, 47 dogs were placed in homes. Some were first time dog owners. I've been following these dogs through blogs and newsletters.
Many Peta supporters are still unaware that their org wanted all the Vick dogs killed and have been calling for the a ban on pit bulls since Jan, 2000. And most have no idea that Peta recommends death to all sheltered pit bulls over adoption to caring families.

 

[partgypsy]

These are some of the comments I was referring to. When you use CAPS it is equivelant to yelling at someone. And the fact that you started an entire separate post directed to Waterlily, because apparently disagreeing with her in the original post watered it down to much... I feel you are taking Waterlily commnets way too personally.

"I do not agree with PETS.
While I agree that adopting is a wonderful thing, it is not the best option for everyone. Sometimes I get a little angry with people who just push and push and push the pet adoption issue. I would love to adopt a pet someday and I do believe that these animals really do need and deserve loving homes, but frankly, I LOVE MY NON-ADOPTED, NON-NEUTERED, PURE BREED AMERICAN BULLDOG. That we got from a breeder. YES, A BREEDER!!!!"

"You are the ignorant one

."

"I always feel ''judged'' because we did not buy from a shelter"

"Waterlilly, I''m sorry, but you sound like a very hostile person."

 

[Prana]

Date: 7/1/2010 2:43:14 PM
Author: tigian
I just wanted to say that I know people have their reasons for doing things and I try my best not to judge. But I also wanted people to know that it is possible to adopt dogs that have had traumatic pasts and they can be rehabilitated and live happily with other animals and people, with little or no psychological damage. Michael Vick''s dogs are a perfect example. All 51 dogs were supposed to be immediately put down, but with time, love, and effort, 47 dogs were placed in homes. Some were first time dog owners. I''ve been following these dogs through blogs and newsletters.
Many Peta supporters are still unaware that their org wanted all the Vick dogs killed and have been calling for the a ban on pit bulls since Jan, 2000. And most have no idea that Peta recommends death to all sheltered pit bulls over adoption to caring families.

I do not support PETA for this very reason. My friend works for a vet- they had a litter of pitbull puppies dropped off to her facility. PETA called and offered to pay for the euthanization-not the treatment to help them get healthy. I was appalled by this.

 

[Irishgrrrl]

Date: 7/1/2010 2:51:23 PM
Author: girlface

Date: 7/1/2010 2:43:14 PM
Author: tigian
I just wanted to say that I know people have their reasons for doing things and I try my best not to judge. But I also wanted people to know that it is possible to adopt dogs that have had traumatic pasts and they can be rehabilitated and live happily with other animals and people, with little or no psychological damage. Michael Vick''s dogs are a perfect example. All 51 dogs were supposed to be immediately put down, but with time, love, and effort, 47 dogs were placed in homes. Some were first time dog owners. I''ve been following these dogs through blogs and newsletters.
Many Peta supporters are still unaware that their org wanted all the Vick dogs killed and have been calling for the a ban on pit bulls since Jan, 2000. And most have no idea that Peta recommends death to all sheltered pit bulls over adoption to caring families.

I do not support PETA for this very reason. My friend works for a vet- they had a litter of pitbull puppies dropped off to her facility. PETA called and offered to pay for the euthanization-not the treatment to help them get healthy. I was appalled by this.

Seriously? SERIOUSLY??? OMG, I don''t even have the words for this! PETA wants everyone to believe that they are soooo pro-animals, and they put on a bunch of elaborate protests and such to show how dedicated they are to animal welfare, and THIS is how they want to treat pit bulls?!?!?!

 

[waterlilly]

Date: 7/1/2010 2:53:39 PM
Author: Irishgrrrl

Date: 7/1/2010 2:51:23 PM

Author: girlface

Date: 7/1/2010 2:43:14 PM

Author: tigian

I just wanted to say that I know people have their reasons for doing things and I try my best not to judge. But I also wanted people to know that it is possible to adopt dogs that have had traumatic pasts and they can be rehabilitated and live happily with other animals and people, with little or no psychological damage. Michael Vick''s dogs are a perfect example. All 51 dogs were supposed to be immediately put down, but with time, love, and effort, 47 dogs were placed in homes. Some were first time dog owners. I''ve been following these dogs through blogs and newsletters.

Many Peta supporters are still unaware that their org wanted all the Vick dogs killed and have been calling for the a ban on pit bulls since Jan, 2000. And most have no idea that Peta recommends death to all sheltered pit bulls over adoption to caring families.

I do not support PETA for this very reason. My friend works for a vet- they had a litter of pitbull puppies dropped off to her facility. PETA called and offered to pay for the euthanization-not the treatment to help them get healthy. I was appalled by this.

Seriously? SERIOUSLY??? OMG, I don''t even have the words for this! PETA wants everyone to believe that they are soooo pro-animals, and they put on a bunch of elaborate protests and such to show how dedicated they are to animal welfare, and THIS is how they want to treat pit bulls?!?!?!

Yes, I believe PETA''s stance is something about doing away with ALL domesticated animals or something like that? Pet ownership is cruel basically in their eyes...I think I''ve heard that before...

 

[Laila619]

Date: 7/1/2010 2:03:57 PM
Author: part gypsy
Yes Waterlily, that's what gets me, how many great animals (without issues) there are out there in the shelters, that don't even have a chance at adoption at good dog owners, and again I feel because of preconceptions of what adopted dogs are like. Studies have shown that mixed breed dogs are often healthier and better temperment- wise than purebreeds due to hybrid vigor. But, people often get purebreeds because they feel they have more control, over personality, health, but that can be an illusion. Our dog stylist got a pure bred standard poodle, pedigreed, was breeding it, but then it developed severe seizures.

And I really wish people would stop picking on Waterlily. Please remember this all started with an obnoxious post by girlface in CAPS (ALA YELLING), which evolved to her starting a specific post to Waterlilly calling her out with quotes 'You are the ignorant one.'
Her dog may not have agression issues but she seems to.

Big DITTO to this entire post, but especially the highlighted.

 

[Prana]

Date: 7/1/2010 2:48:20 PM
Author: part gypsy

These are some of the comments I was referring to. When you use CAPS it is equivelant to yelling at someone. And the fact that you started an entire separate post directed to Waterlily, because apparently disagreeing with her in the original post watered it down to much... I feel you are taking Waterlily commnets way too personally.

''I do not agree with PETS.

While I agree that adopting is a wonderful thing, it is not the best option for everyone. Sometimes I get a little angry with people who just push and push and push the pet adoption issue. I would love to adopt a pet someday and I do believe that these animals really do need and deserve loving homes, but frankly, I LOVE MY NON-ADOPTED, NON-NEUTERED, PURE BREED AMERICAN BULLDOG. That we got from a breeder. YES, A BREEDER!!!!''

''You are the ignorant one

.''

''I always feel ''judged'' because we did not buy from a shelter''

''Waterlilly, I''m sorry, but you sound like a very hostile person.''

I started a new thread so as not to threadjack the 21 things thread, but to no avail.

In the post that I used caps, I ETA that I was not yelling at anyone. I was simply making a statemet to back up what I believed-that adoption is not a good option for everyone, and that my dog came from a breeder, and that yes, seeing pets on a list of things that should be bought 2nd hand was sort of weird for me. I''ve picked my post apart somewhere along the way to clarify what I was trying to convey, feel free to go back to the 21 things post to read.

I apologized for calling her ignorant before anyone even responded to the thread. I realized right away that it was wrong, and I''m not sure why you''ve chosen to bring it up again, when I''ve clearly stated that I was in the wrong.

Yes, I responded to HH that I feel judged by our dog''s appearance. Not by anyone in these forums, by people in the streets. I''m not really sure how the highlighted has any relevance to me being ''hostile''.

And yes, I think Waterlilly has come across as being very angry in her posts. I feel, borderline, like I was attacked-she made assumptions about me without knowing my story. I''ve tried to clarify, and discussions ensued. Which I''ve found to be invigorating and educational! I''ve read back over my responses to posts, and I cannot see where I come across as being ''agressive'', as you stated.

 

[Irishgrrrl]

Date: 7/1/2010 2:58:03 PM
Author: waterlilly

Date: 7/1/2010 2:53:39 PM
Author: Irishgrrrl

Date: 7/1/2010 2:51:23 PM

Author: girlface

Date: 7/1/2010 2:43:14 PM

Author: tigian

I just wanted to say that I know people have their reasons for doing things and I try my best not to judge. But I also wanted people to know that it is possible to adopt dogs that have had traumatic pasts and they can be rehabilitated and live happily with other animals and people, with little or no psychological damage. Michael Vick''s dogs are a perfect example. All 51 dogs were supposed to be immediately put down, but with time, love, and effort, 47 dogs were placed in homes. Some were first time dog owners. I''ve been following these dogs through blogs and newsletters.

Many Peta supporters are still unaware that their org wanted all the Vick dogs killed and have been calling for the a ban on pit bulls since Jan, 2000. And most have no idea that Peta recommends death to all sheltered pit bulls over adoption to caring families.

I do not support PETA for this very reason. My friend works for a vet- they had a litter of pitbull puppies dropped off to her facility. PETA called and offered to pay for the euthanization-not the treatment to help them get healthy. I was appalled by this.

Seriously? SERIOUSLY??? OMG, I don''t even have the words for this! PETA wants everyone to believe that they are soooo pro-animals, and they put on a bunch of elaborate protests and such to show how dedicated they are to animal welfare, and THIS is how they want to treat pit bulls?!?!?!

Yes, I believe PETA''s stance is something about doing away with ALL domesticated animals or something like that? Pet ownership is cruel basically in their eyes...I think I''ve heard that before...

OK, now that''s just completely ridiculous. RESPONSIBLE pet ownership is anything but "cruel." This is just one of the many things about PETA that irritates me.

 

[yssie]

Date: 7/1/2010 3:00:20 PM
Author: Laila619

Date: 7/1/2010 2:03:57 PM
Author: part gypsy
Yes Waterlily, that's what gets me, how many great animals (without issues) there are out there in the shelters, that don't even have a chance at adoption at good dog owners, and again I feel because of preconceptions of what adopted dogs are like. Studies have shown that mixed breed dogs are often healthier and better temperment- wise than purebreeds due to hybrid vigor. But, people often get purebreeds because they feel they have more control, over personality, health, but that can be an illusion. Our dog stylist got a pure bred standard poodle, pedigreed, was breeding it, but then it developed severe seizures.

And I really wish people would stop picking on Waterlily. Please remember this all started with an obnoxious post by girlface in CAPS (ALA YELLING), which evolved to her starting a specific post to Waterlilly calling her out with quotes 'You are the ignorant one.'
Her dog may not have agression issues but she seems to.

Big DITTO to this entire post, but especially the highlighted.

Thritto. BIG thritto. I think all of us on this 'side' of the debate, if you can call it that, are trying to make exactly this point.

But I agree that this thread is probably preaching to the choir from both viewpoints, as no-one who didn't care would be on here emotionally arguing a cause with a bunch of strangers.

 

[Puppmom]

Date: 7/1/2010 3:00:20 PM
Author: Laila619

Date: 7/1/2010 2:03:57 PM
Author: part gypsy
Yes Waterlily, that''s what gets me, how many great animals (without issues) there are out there in the shelters, that don''t even have a chance at adoption at good dog owners, and again I feel because of preconceptions of what adopted dogs are like. Studies have shown that mixed breed dogs are often healthier and better temperment- wise than purebreeds due to hybrid vigor. But, people often get purebreeds because they feel they have more control, over personality, health, but that can be an illusion. Our dog stylist got a pure bred standard poodle, pedigreed, was breeding it, but then it developed severe seizures.

And I really wish people would stop picking on Waterlily. Please remember this all started with an obnoxious post by girlface in CAPS (ALA YELLING), which evolved to her starting a specific post to Waterlilly calling her out with quotes ''You are the ignorant one.''
Her dog may not have agression issues but she seems to.

Big DITTO to this entire post, but especially the highlighted.

As someone who got her dog from a breeder (and stands by her decision to do so

), I can agree with most of this highlighted text too. Read my previous post about my Anti-Rhodesian Ridgeback. Generally speaking, I also think that "mutts" tend to be a heartier bunch while my guy has a super sensitive stomach and allergies - both of which I *think* are more common in purebred dogs.

 

[Irishgrrrl]

Date: 7/1/2010 4:03:12 PM
Author: puppmom

Date: 7/1/2010 3:00:20 PM
Author: Laila619

Date: 7/1/2010 2:03:57 PM
Author: part gypsy
Yes Waterlily, that''s what gets me, how many great animals (without issues) there are out there in the shelters, that don''t even have a chance at adoption at good dog owners, and again I feel because of preconceptions of what adopted dogs are like. Studies have shown that mixed breed dogs are often healthier and better temperment- wise than purebreeds due to hybrid vigor. But, people often get purebreeds because they feel they have more control, over personality, health, but that can be an illusion. Our dog stylist got a pure bred standard poodle, pedigreed, was breeding it, but then it developed severe seizures.

And I really wish people would stop picking on Waterlily. Please remember this all started with an obnoxious post by girlface in CAPS (ALA YELLING), which evolved to her starting a specific post to Waterlilly calling her out with quotes ''You are the ignorant one.''
Her dog may not have agression issues but she seems to.

Big DITTO to this entire post, but especially the highlighted.

As someone who got her dog from a breeder (and stands by her decision to do so

), I can agree with most of this highlighted text too. Read my previous post about my Anti-Rhodesian Ridgeback. Generally speaking, I also think that ''mutts'' tend to be a heartier bunch while my guy has a super sensitive stomach and allergies - both of which I *think* are more common in purebred dogs.

Ya know, I think this really just depends on the individual dog. Our pit/lab mix has congestive heart failure and our lab/??? mix gets chronic ear infections, but our purebred Frenchie is 100% healthy (knock on wood).

Again, when it comes to getting a healthy purebred dog, the key is the breeder. A responsible breeder who is *truly* in it for the betterment of the breed is testing their dogs for common health issues and breeding selectively to eliminate those health issues from the breed. Obviously, this will usually result in healthier dogs. Of course, there are plenty of purebred dogs who come from excellent breeders and still have health issues that couldn''t have been predicted/prevented, despite the breeder''s best efforts.

 

[ForteKitty]

Even if you research a good breeder, no guarantees. My friend''s purebred pomeranian is 7 yrs old, and came from a long line of well bred-healthy ancestors. (i dont know how the certifications work since i have all rescued mutts) Both parents are very healthy still. Two years ago, her hair started falling out in chunks. she had what Drs thought was alopecia, then they said her thyroids had issues. They tested her for cushings, but always turned up negative. Turned out it WAS cushings. and her muscles have deteriorated to almost nothing. she wobbles when she walks, and can barely walk across the front lawn. She also develops bladdar stones easily, even tho she is on special diets. The cushings'' meds seem to be working very slowly, and her fuzzies are just starting to grow back after 3 months of treatments.

It''s heartbreaking to watch, knowing she has a long battle ahead of her.

 

[missy]

Date: 7/1/2010 10:56:58 AM
Author: Loves Vintage

Date: 7/1/2010 10:34:32 AM

Author: Hudson_Hawk

Date: 7/1/2010 10:03:36 AM

Author: waterlilly

Date: 7/1/2010 8:52:28 AM


Author: Hudson_Hawk

Date: 7/1/2010 7:34:37 AM



Author: waterlilly

LV-I'm not girlface but I didn't read her post in the other thread to be saying that 99% of bully breeds in shelters had issues. She said PROBABLY, as in was not confirmed but could be a possibility. And maybe the public perception of bully breeds in shelters being problem dogs is incorrect, but the truth is these breeds ARE some of the most over- and inbred dogs out there. There also more likely to be abandoned at the first sign of a problem versus rehabilitated or trained.


Here is a little information pulled from the web-the question was how many bully breeds end up in shelters (not how many end up in adoption from shelters).


From:http://www.scribd.com/doc/28031506/Forsaken-No-More-Bully-Breed-Adoption

'According to statistics maintained by Merritt Clifton of Animal People, between eight and nine million animals entered American shelters in 2008.


Approximately 45% of those animals were dogs. Although 90% of dogs are statistically considered

to be savable, almost two million dogs were destroyed in shelters in 2008 with 58% of them being

those labeled as pit bulls. '


Regardless of the euthanasia aspect, you can't deny that shelters are often a destination for bully breeds. And as also noted, not all triggers are found during standard screening by shelters. And the fact that 58% of the 2000 dogs noted above were euthanized pit bulls, one can reasonably assume that they had psychological or aggression problems.


Personally I think bully breeds get a bad rep and I know many many pit bulls, boxers, chows, etc who are great and loving animals. But I personally wouldn't feel comfortable adopting one from a shelter. That's my opinion.

Why would I ever deny that shelters are often a destination for bully breeds? Of course they are! Of course they are overbred! Of course, they are sold on the street of all major cities. Of course, many of them wind up in shelters when they become adults! Of course, many pregnant bully breeds wind up in shelters, and birth their babies on the cement floor of a dark shelter. And, of course, they all get euthanized on the same day. Why would I ever deny that?


Your inference, however, is faulty. The reason these dogs get euthanized is not because of agression or health issues. They get euthanized because NOBODY WANTS THEM. There are too many and not enough homes. According to the statistics you cited, we are talking about 1,160,000 'pit bulls' per year, and YOU feel comfortable inferring that all or most of the have agression or health issues. Uhm, based on what fact do you make that inference? On the numbers alone? Besides, you said the article said 90% were saveable. I interpret that to mean 90% are deemed adoptable, which I also interpret to mean at least no agression issues. Health issues, I do not know and would not be so bold as to make a guess.


In Hartford, pit bulls are retrieved off the streets every day. The Animal Control Officer makes an assessment as to whether they are agressive. If they are, they get put down. End of story. If they are not agressive, they are deemed adoptable. I get e-mails from this shelter every week with urgent adoptable pit bulls. This ACO is desperate to get the dogs out of the shelter because they only get 10 days. That is it. Last I checked, the city has to pay $10 per day per dog in that shelter. They lease the space from a kennel. After 10 days, could be the sweetest pit bull ever, if no rescue group steps up or adopter shows up, the dog is killed. End of story. Not enough homes. Here are this week's batch: Hartford dogs


Regarding you and your choice re: where to find your pets, that is your choice, and I honestly have nothing to say about it. Live your life as you see fit. But, stop perpetuating myths about these dogs. Let the people who want to save them do the best they can for them. Their decision is theirs, yours is yours. Everything is so much easier that way, isn't it?

Yes, please remember that you certainly can rescue a great dog from a shelter or from a dog rescue group. I would say to those who feel that buying a dog from a breeder suits them best to perhaps consider that their next dog be a rescue. That way you can get a purebred from a breeder and save a stray as well. Happy compromise and win win.

I mean, consider the horrible fact that it is a holocaust in this country (USA- I don't know about the other countries regarding this issue...I hope they are more advanced re animal rights than we are) for so many healthy and wonderful animals...every*single* day*

All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing

 

[Autumnovember]

I just wanted to make a quick comment...

In October of 2008 I was looking to adopt a kitten. We came back twice to the shelter so we could really make our choice and I just decided to go check out the pups. In the corner, I spotted the cutest dog. She looked so sad. I asked them to take her out and she just pressed up my leg and stood on her hind legs for me to pet her. I could just tell how happy she was from the affection. 1 week later she was mine.

I''d just like to say that my dog did have some problems in the beginning. No, she was not aggressive or anything but she had very very serious separation anxiety from me.

After training her and giving her unconditional love, I could truly say she is THE most amazing thing that has EVER happened me.


Every single person who meets her, falls in love with her.

she wants nothing but love from everyone. She is truly incredible.

 

[Laila619]

Date: 7/1/2010 11:53:36 PM
Author: Autumnovember
I just wanted to make a quick comment...

In October of 2008 I was looking to adopt a kitten. We came back twice to the shelter so we could really make our choice and I just decided to go check out the pups. In the corner, I spotted the cutest dog. She looked so sad. I asked them to take her out and she just pressed up my leg and stood on her hind legs for me to pet her. I could just tell how happy she was from the affection. 1 week later she was mine.

I''d just like to say that my dog did have some problems in the beginning. No, she was not aggressive or anything but she had very very serious separation anxiety from me.

After training her and giving her unconditional love, I could truly say she is THE most amazing thing that has EVER happened me.


Every single person who meets her, falls in love with her.

she wants nothing but love from everyone. She is truly incredible.

Aww, how heartwarming! Bless you for giving her a chance at a happy life.

 

[loriken214]

I grew up in an animal loving house and we were always taking in strays, adopting from the Houston SPCA and buying specific puppies from local breeders. We did it all and were happy with all of our furbabies. My late Mom was especially gifted with the little ones and would sleep on the floor with them when they were still very young and first weaned from their mommas.

Long story short, I adopted my angel kitty Coco from the Houston SPCA on February 26, 2008. Her history card said she was 4 years old and got along with other cats, dogs and children. She had only been at the shelter for 4 days. Her former family had declawed her front claws. The card said in big letters DRY FOOD ONLY.

I brought Coco home and fed her the food that the SPCA sent along with her. I introduced her to our family Vet the very next day and Dr. T. was really excited to meet her and loved her markings.

All was well for the next few days and then Coco started throwing up all over the house. I got her to the Vet and they ran all kinds of tests on her to try and find out what was wrong.

After many vet hospital stays, many tests, THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, special prescription food and daily prescription liquid medication that I have to insert into her mouth twice a day .....it turns out that Coco was born without a certain enzyme that is needed to help her go poo. If she eats too fast, or too much, or too soon...then she''ll throw up. If she gets too excited, she''ll puke. It is a daily struggle and I''m continually finding cat puke all over the carpet, my bed, the spare bed, bathroom, etc.

It is no fun going to the potty in the middle of the night and stepping in cat puke. I''ve done it many times before I could get to the bathroom light.

My point is, we were lucky that we could afford to take care of Coco and find the root of the problem. We have no idea what her history is and how she was treated before we adopted her. We wanted a mutt cat and we got a VERY EXPENSIVE cat instead.

I just wonder what would have happened to her if someone else adopted her and couldn''t afford to treat her.

Lori

 

[yssie]

Date: 7/2/2010 1:08:34 AM
Author: loriken214
I grew up in an animal loving house and we were always taking in strays, adopting from the Houston SPCA and buying specific puppies from local breeders. We did it all and were happy with all of our furbabies. My late Mom was especially gifted with the little ones and would sleep on the floor with them when they were still very young and first weaned from their mommas.

Long story short, I adopted my angel kitty Coco from the Houston SPCA on February 26, 2008. Her history card said she was 4 years old and got along with other cats, dogs and children. She had only been at the shelter for 4 days. Her former family had declawed her front claws. The card said in big letters DRY FOOD ONLY.

I brought Coco home and fed her the food that the SPCA sent along with her. I introduced her to our family Vet the very next day and Dr. T. was really excited to meet her and loved her markings.

All was well for the next few days and then Coco started throwing up all over the house. I got her to the Vet and they ran all kinds of tests on her to try and find out what was wrong.

After many vet hospital stays, many tests, THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, special prescription food and daily prescription liquid medication that I have to insert into her mouth twice a day .....it turns out that Coco was born without a certain enzyme that is needed to help her go poo. If she eats too fast, or too much, or too soon...then she'll throw up. If she gets too excited, she'll puke. It is a daily struggle and I'm continually finding cat puke all over the carpet, my bed, the spare bed, bathroom, etc.

It is no fun going to the potty in the middle of the night and stepping in cat puke. I've done it many times before I could get to the bathroom light.

My point is, we were lucky that we could afford to take care of Coco and find the root of the problem. We have no idea what her history is and how she was treated before we adopted her. We wanted a mutt cat and we got a VERY EXPENSIVE cat instead.

I just wonder what would have happened to her if someone else adopted her and couldn't afford to treat her.

Lori

Lori - in cases like this every one of the local (no-kill) shelters I volunteer at will take the animal back and offer you a replacement, should that be your desire. It must be hard to part with a cat you've bonded with, but they make it clear in the adoption policy that should things not work out because of an undiagnosed chronic illness the cat was adopted out with, they will take the animal back from you (actually most will take the animal back if you say "it's not working out", period). I do hope that's the case in most areas.

A shelter that does euthanise... I'm not sure how they would handle this, and I don't really want to consider too hard

 

[loriken214]

Date: 7/2/2010 2:12:40 AM
Author: yssie

Date: 7/2/2010 1:08:34 AM
Author: loriken214
I grew up in an animal loving house and we were always taking in strays, adopting from the Houston SPCA and buying specific puppies from local breeders. We did it all and were happy with all of our furbabies. My late Mom was especially gifted with the little ones and would sleep on the floor with them when they were still very young and first weaned from their mommas.

Long story short, I adopted my angel kitty Coco from the Houston SPCA on February 26, 2008. Her history card said she was 4 years old and got along with other cats, dogs and children. She had only been at the shelter for 4 days. Her former family had declawed her front claws. The card said in big letters DRY FOOD ONLY.

I brought Coco home and fed her the food that the SPCA sent along with her. I introduced her to our family Vet the very next day and Dr. T. was really excited to meet her and loved her markings.

All was well for the next few days and then Coco started throwing up all over the house. I got her to the Vet and they ran all kinds of tests on her to try and find out what was wrong.

After many vet hospital stays, many tests, THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, special prescription food and daily prescription liquid medication that I have to insert into her mouth twice a day .....it turns out that Coco was born without a certain enzyme that is needed to help her go poo. If she eats too fast, or too much, or too soon...then she''ll throw up. If she gets too excited, she''ll puke. It is a daily struggle and I''m continually finding cat puke all over the carpet, my bed, the spare bed, bathroom, etc.

It is no fun going to the potty in the middle of the night and stepping in cat puke. I''ve done it many times before I could get to the bathroom light.

My point is, we were lucky that we could afford to take care of Coco and find the root of the problem. We have no idea what her history is and how she was treated before we adopted her. We wanted a mutt cat and we got a VERY EXPENSIVE cat instead.

I just wonder what would have happened to her if someone else adopted her and couldn''t afford to treat her.

Lori

Lori - in cases like this every one of the local (no-kill) shelters I volunteer at will take the animal back and offer you a replacement, should that be your desire. It must be hard to part with a cat you''ve bonded with, but they make it clear in the adoption policy that should things not work out because of an undiagnosed chronic illness the cat was adopted out with, they will take the animal back from you (actually most will take the animal back if you say ''it''s not working out'', period). I do hope that''s the case in most areas.

A shelter that does euthanise... I''m not sure how they would handle this, and I don''t really want to consider too hard

Hi Yssie!

I''m sure that Coco would be in Heaven by now if I had taken her back to the SPCA. We thought about putting her to sleep when she was close to passing away, but I begged our angel Vet, Dr. T., to save her. Coco has been close to passing away twice before Dr. T. found the solution and told me that we''re going to have to live with the puking and the eternal medicine ritual as long as she lives.

I''m at home on a disability retirement and Coco is my angel....we''ve saved each other and she will be with me until the end. DH loves her like crazy, he''s never had a cat before, and she brings such joy to our lives. She is 6 1/2 now and is the sweetest kitty I''ve ever had the pleasure to call my own.

My point to commenting on this thread is.....we adopted a shelter animal and got a handful without knowing anything about her history. DH and I also bought our two mini-dachshunds, Bonnie and Clyde, from a family who bred their female mini-dachshund ONE TIME. They are brother and sister and are pure bred and registered with the AKC. We had them spayed/neutered as soon as they were old enough and they will be 11 years old on July 16. They were healthy until the past couple of years and now are on prescription dog food and medicines for arthritis/estrogen for Bonnie.

You should be able to choose which way to obtain your furbaby, but KNOWLEDGE IS POWER and AWARENESS IS KEY! Avoid puppy mills and pet shops that buy their animals from horrible breeders. There are many people out there who are still unaware of the horrors that these poor furbabies go through.

Lori

 

[kenny]

Kizzy and Yaya just told me, they don't like you guys fighting.
They want to put their paws over their eyes.

They said, "Turn off your computer and go give your doggies a snack, then a long belly rub."

 

[yssie]

Lori - I think it's wonderful that Coco found you and your DH

She's a lucky girl!


ITA, knowledge is key - the choice made with eyes wide open is always the better one.

 

[Laila619]

Lori, you''re a real hero to Coco! She must just love and adore you. What a good thing you''ve done for her!

 

[mousey]

Wowsers- kissy and yaya are SO super cute!

 

[missjaxon]

I don''t have anything to add to the "debate", but I believe that everyone that posted on this thread do have the animals best interests in mind. Both sides of the argument bring up very valid points and I have learned a lot from this thread (especially regarding pet shelters). I also adore all of the cute pictures!

 

[Winks_Elf]

Date: 7/1/2010 12:00:00 PM
Author: Laila619
Haven, those kitties sure love you!


I am saddened that in this day and age, so many people are still apparently buying animals fron breeders instead of giving homes to all the needy and homeless shelter and stray pets.

Why do some people still falsely think purebreeds are better?

I don''t know about other people, but in our area the only shelter charges $200 to adopt a stray. Most of them are rescues, and we have no way of knowing what kind of temperament they have, what kind of abuse they''ve been through, etc. We have four children, and I''m not willing to gamble with temperament.

Our last dog WAS a rescued golden retriever. He had been severely beaten by his previous owner''s boyfriend, to the point that part of his scull had been broken, several teeth were permanently missing, and he was petrified to go through doorways. That was all before he was 10 months old. We had him til the ripe old age of his 11th year. Considering he was a working farm dog, that''s pretty good. He wound up being lovable, loyal to the point of blowing out his ACL while chasing a bear away from the house (he jumped off the rock wall while in pursuit), and kept the coyotes at bay. He was a much loved family member, and his favorite spots to lay were under the high chair during meals, and on the front veranda where he had a grand view of a good portion of the property. He was truly a rescue-adoption success story.

We now have four children, and would be leery of getting a rescue dog because of the ages of the children (4,6,10 and 12). My husband got two Staffordshire Bull Terriers from a friend who breeds them for tempermant while we were apart. Those dogs just turned a year old at the end of may, and are very loyal, lovable but fierce looking babies. I can understand why many people judge them before they even get to know anything about them. Hubby has had them since they were still in the whelping box as he used to babysit their mother for the breeder when she first had the pups. The first time he held them their eyes weren''t even open. He purchased the blue for a few hundred, but got the liver for free since he was considered "undesirable" for show. I find that funny since I think he''s a more handsome dog than Maverick. BOTH of them are just part of the pack.

This is what bedtime looks like at our house. All of our babies, whether they be two or four legged, wind up on our bed.

 

[Winks_Elf]

Neo as a baby...

 

[VRBeauty]

Date: 7/2/2010 3:11:22 AM
Author: kenny
Kizzy and Yaya just told me, they don't like you guys fighting.

They want to put their paws over their eyes.


They said, 'Turn off your computer and go give your doggies a snack, then a long belly rub.'

From the mouths of fluffy babes..!

I suspect that generally the PS community id made up of thoughtful people who tend to do their homework before making a MAJOR decision about something like adding a pet to their family.

After all, that's what drew most of us to PS in the first place... we were looking for more information before making a major purchase. We were looking for information before purchasing an INANIMATE OBJECT! Certainly we all put the same level of thought and consideration into decisions regarding our pets and families!

Providing information is one thing. The assumption that any one path is right for everyone out there is quite another...