These two adorable, loving dogs are in need of a home. I have a good friend that sent me these great pics and the bio on these two girls. You can see from the picture, they are healthy, and, just too, too cute!! If you, or someone you know, are looking for a new addition to your home, these two girls would fit the bill. Contact me at my email: tamara25537@c4ui2u.com, or through this blog. Just reply to this post with email and I will contact you and then get your phone, as I do not like to put personal information on the web. Please help us find a great home for these lovely girls. Thanks, Tamara.


My friend's neighbor has requested I post these pictures of two dogs that need adopted. They are currently being fostered (since May '08). They were found together on the side of the road. She prefers they stay together if possible because they are very attached to one another, and she thinks they are related (mother/daughter or possibly sisters). The brown one is Ginger, and the black one is Lola. They are very lovable, have had all their shots, are in good health, and have not shown any aggression at all. The only "drawback" is they are adults, not puppies, and therefore more difficult to adopt. If interested or know someone who may be, please contact Tamara.
Ginger and Lola

Holistic Treatments For Your Pet.

Before using any of these remedies, please check with your vet to insure of the right dosage or of any complications they might cause due to an existing problem.

If you are like most of us, you prefer not to put chemicals into your pet's body, or your own, for that matter. I found some really great holistic treatments for a variety of common problems. Here they are:

Apis: Known as Apis Mellifica. Meaning - whole honeybee. The active ingredient in Apis mellifica is the venom of the honeybee. This is used to treat minor bee stings or bug bites. But, as with any acute situation, always, always, consult with your vet before administering any drug or remedy.

Apple-Cider Vinegar: ***Note - check with your vet to make sure that your dog does not have any yeast or intestinal problems.*** This remedy has been used for centuries as a daily tonic to flush the system on humans. Look for brands that contain the "mother" a bacterial culture from the fermentation process, also known as the floaters you see in the bottle.

Besides being a good source of easily absorbable, potassium apple cider vinegar aids digestion, inhibits the growth of unfriendly bacteria and helps maintain the proper acid/alkaline balance of the digestive tract. Many holistic vets recommend a daily dosage of:
1 tsp (5 ml) for cats and small dogs (up to 14 lb)
2 tsp (10 ml) for medium dogs (15 to 34 lb)
1 tbsp (15 ml) for large dogs (35 to 84 lb)

Arnica: Has the ability to minimize bruising, bleeding, shock, pain, and recovery time following strains, injuries, surgery, exercise...Even if there is no obvious sign of injury like bruises or inflammation, Arnica helps the after shock, muscular soreness and pain of any trauma. This remedy works to move fluid such as blood and lymph away from injuries.

Calendula: Marigolds are not only pretty outside, but helpful in your medicine cabinet inside. Calendula cream, found in health-food stores, is a powerful healer. I compare it to Neosporin in healing properties. Only use it on closed wounds, though, because its quick healing power can trap bacteria inside the wound and cause a serious infection.

Colostrum: Known as "first milk," colostrum is rich in immunoglobulins and beneficial proteins such as growth factors. Some vets suggest using cow colostrum as a dietary supplement for dogs that need their immune system boosted. That is why I cringe every time I hear of someone that has bought a puppy that is only 6 wks. old. They need to be on the mother for at least 8 wks. to get the benefits of her milk.

Lavender: Essential oil of lavender speeds healing and reduces scarring. Two caveats with any essential oil. Only buy oils that are guaranteed as therapeutic grade, and always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil such as almond oil.

Milk Thistle: ***Do not use in pregnant animals.*** This is a member of the sunflower family and is used to boost liver function.

Pumpkin: Pure pumpkin, not pumpkin mix, is full of fiber and is a great diarrhea remedy. Conversely, it works for constipation, too. You can buy canned pumpkin in the store. ***Do not buy pumpkin mix, as it is loaded with sugar and spices that are super bad for your dogs digestion.*** Also, if your baby is on a diet, you can give them pumpkin and it makes them have a feeling of fullness.

Rescue Remedy: This is a preparation of 5 individual flower essences. It is believed to operate on a vibrational level to balance emotions. It is synonymous with trauma, and so is ideal for any event that involves suddenness and shock, from calming down from an unexpected fright to recuperating from surgery.

Slippery Elm: This bark is believed to coat and lubricate the digestive tract, making it a gentle and safe herb for diarrhea and tummy upset. You can get it in capsules as well as tinctures. Consult your vet on dosing.

A Movie Star In Our Midst.

Today at work, I found out something I didn't know. The dogs that were in the Disney movie, 8 Below, were to be sent to rescue organizations around the Eastern part of the U.S. The ones that weren't taken by someone, were shipped off, just like something that was disposable.

The way I found out, a gentleman came in to see if we had anything pertaining to Malamutes, which unfortunately, we didn't. He bought a Siberian Husky coffee mug because he said it looked like his dog. Well, he preceded to tell me the story of how he got his Malamute, and where she came from. He said he was in CA., at Planet Hollywood, and he was asked if he wanted this Malamute that had been in the movie, 8 Below.

He was told that if he didn't take her, she was being shipped off to a rescue in TN. He said to me, "well, of course I took her." The man said she was about 6-8 yrs. old, and a total sweetie. I told him I wouldn't use her name, but ask if I could have his permission to tell his story to my readers. He readily agreed. I wanted the public to know that the movie industry really doesn't care about the animals. If they are owned by someone, they have a chance. But, if they come from a pound, they are disposable to the industry. Sad.

Gift Ideas For Christmas For Your Pet.

Christmas is just around the corner and buying that special gift for your pet can sometimes be difficult. Here are some ideas that might help in your search for that perfect gift. An illuminated collar is a great gift if you walk you dog a lot. The White Diamond LED collar offers diamond bright glitter that can be seen from a distance. It comes in a variety of colors. Go to www.visiglo.com to check them out.

Here is a gift that is called the Crinkle Critter toy. It is an interactive toy styled like a sock monkey. You insert an empty water bottle into the casing and watch your dog play for hours. If your dog is anything like Chance, the Crinkle Critter toy is the way to go. You can go online to www.petco.com or www.petsmart.com and find it.

For the snuggle bunny in your family, there is a neat bed that is open at both ends and is called a slipper bed. The Dachshund breed likes to burrow, as that is what they were bred to do, by the way. Other dogs, such as the Chihuahua and Pug like to burrow too. It comes in three sizes and can be found at www.petbedsnstuff.com.

Do you play golf? Here is a toy that is shaped like a real golf club. The Doggie Driver can throw a ball over 220 ft. You put a tennis ball in the head of the club and just swing it like you would a real golf club. They also have it in a baseball bat. Go to www.amazon.com and search on Doggie Driver and Bark N Bat. They also make great training tools.

Have you been looking for a coat for your dog that is not only functional but fashionable? I have found one. It is a Sherpa-lined dog coat, fashioned after a horse blanket. It is waterproof, windproof, and warm. Super easy to put on and stays in place with Velcro straps under the belly. They have seven sizes ranging from XXS to XXL. Go to www.ss4horses.com to locate a retailer in your area.

Do you give your dog a massage. I do. This interesting item is a massage tool. Invented by a veterinary chiropractor, it increases the blood flow to targeted areas. It is called the Pooch Massoose. You can find it at www.poochmassoose.com.

These are just a few ideas for your Christmas shopping list. Check back to this blog for more information about presents for Christmas.

Little Victories Photo's A Hit.

3 days a week this month, Little Victories has been taking pictures of people pets at the Macy's dome in the Huntington mall. After the photo shoot, the people can bring their pets down to Just Dog's! Gourmet for a free bag of our training treats.

It has been such a treat to see the different dogs come through with their owners to get their goodies. Some have sweaters or t-shirts, while others have on their bandanna's. They are so, so cute. Having worked with dogs for many years, I get an extra thrill petting the dogs, and in some cases, getting "puppy kisses."

Most all of the dogs I have met, have had excellent manners. Actually, I haven't really met one yet that wasn't able to be out in society. Most could pass the Canine Good Citizens test with no problem. So, if you get a chance, come out and get your pets picture taken. I have a post about it on this blog with the times and days to come out and get that precious pet of yours, picture taken.

Chance and Mr. Puppy say, "My mom has a million pictures of me and I love to pose."

Fact Or Fiction? Can Dogs Predict Storms?

source: pedigree website

Long before a severe storm approaches, dogs can be seen pacing, panting and acting in an agitated way—even though skies are perfectly sunny. Is it possible that he has a sixth sense when it comes to predicting storms? Or is there a scientific explanation? While no one can be 100% certain, it's likely that some dogs know a storm is brewing because they hear it, smell it, even feel it, long before we do.

With their keen ears, canines can hear at much higher and lower frequencies than we do. A dog can hear a faraway rumble of thunder that you might miss. In addition, a dog's nose is so sensitive, it can detect odors a billion times better than humans. Yes, a billion! Since lightning ionizes air with the formation of ozone—which has a characteristic metallic smell—it's possible that dogs detect this odor, or some other odor, associated with the storm.

Dogs are also more attuned to changes in barometric pressure than humans. A drop in pressure signals that conditions may be right for a storm to develop. So a dog may learn to associate the feeling of a pressure drop with the arrival of a storm.

Some researchers even contend that dogs can sense the vibrations caused by thunder through their feet in much the same way that Native Americans would put an ear to the ground to listen for the distant rumbling of herds or tribes approaching. It is not inconceivable that dogs are able to pick up vibrations through their feet and limbs

Our Best Friends Do Have Dreams.

source: Pedigree website

You've probably seen it happen—your sleeping dog suddenly lets out a woof as his legs begin to twitch. Is he dreaming? Many scientists say there is evidence to support the idea that dogs do, in fact, experience dreams. Researchers using an electroencephalogram (EEG) have tested canine brain wave activity during sleep. They've found that dogs are similar to humans when it comes to sleep patterns and brain wave activity.

Like humans, dogs enter a deep sleep stage during which their breathing becomes more irregular and they have rapid eye movements (REM). It is during REM sleep that actual dreaming and, often, involuntary movements take place. Dogs may move their legs as if they are running, whine or whimper as if excited, and breathe rapidly or hold their breath for short periods.

Not all dogs dream equally. Research suggests that small dogs dream more than larger dogs. A Toy Poodle may dream once every ten minutes while a Golden Retriever may only dream once every 90 minutes. Dreaming also seems to occur more frequently in puppies. This may be because they are processing huge quantities of newly acquired experiences.

What do dogs dream about? Since no dog has ever told anyone about a dream he's had, we can only guess. It's likely that dogs dream in a similar fashion to humans, replaying the everyday activities that make up their existence, like chasing, playing, and eating. If you've ever been tempted to wake your dog during a dream, try and resist. It's best to "let sleeping dogs lie." Dogs, like humans, need uninterrupted sleep for healthy mental activity.

Shelties Rescued From Certain Death.

It is great to see the Herald Dispatch finally putting stories of animal abuse and neglect in their publications. It has been a long time coming. I was on the Editorial Board for one session and had brought that up. But, as I understood the reasoning, there were more pressing issues at the time that needed the attention of the paper.

The five Shetland Sheepdogs, (Shelties), that were rescued Tues. morning in Huntington, WV were living in deplorable conditions. And, a concerned citizen is the only reason they are not still living and dying in that mess. But, this is just one of a hundred, or possibly a thousand, cases that need the attention of our shelter. I am disappointed in the Cabell-Wayne Animal Shelter, really. I have called and called on many occasions and get the same line. "We will send someone out, and thank you for caring about the animals."

And, about not pressing charges against the woman that owned the property, I understand. If charges were filed, the animals would have to be kept at the shelter as evidence and could not be placed into loving homes, or foster homes. I think they are doing the right thing.

A Great Rescue Story.

I heard the greatest rescue story at my father's induction ceremony for the Wall of Fame. The lady that did the research to get my father voted into the wall told me the story. When she and her husband were on their way to Columbus, OH, they stopped into a National Forest just to see what it was like.

As they drove in, they passed a group of picnic tables, as they just about got passed it, a small head popped up from behind the table. The woman saw the puppy and told her husband. Well, they went on and drove around and on the way back out, they saw the pup again. She asked her husband if they could get the puppy. He told her that if the pup was still there when they came back through from Columbus, she could get the puppy.

She told me she worried and worried the entire time they were at their relatives house. When they came back to the National Forest, they didn't see the puppy. She was so disappointed, she said. As they drove around and came back out, they saw the pup. Her husband stopped the car and she got out. She said she talked and talked and talked until the puppy finally licked her hand. She got the puppy, and now it is a member of their family.

Isn't that a wonderful, heart-warming story? I think so. Hope you enjoyed it.

Pedigree's Dog's Rule Holiday.

Pedigree is doing something cool. On October 11Th, they are declaring "Dog's Rule" day. It will be a national holiday for all dogs around the world. Check back here for more information about this great idea.

Another Great Fundraiser By Little Victories.

source: first paragraph from the Herald Dispatch.

Little Victories Animal Rescue plans to raise funds and awareness during the Marshall University football game Friday, Oct. 3. Little Victories will have a tailgate and distribute "trick or treat" pumpkins to aid in fundraising.

The shelter is at it again to raise funds and help the homeless animals in our area. This is a great idea, as it will reach a lot of people. Come out to the game and watch Marshall win and help the animals and party, all at the same time!