tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56012065446982581282024-03-14T01:50:02.260-03:00The Little Engines That Will: A Vicktory Dog BlogNhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-28162364803919551462012-07-21T21:47:00.003-03:002012-07-21T22:11:48.227-03:00A dog for Michael Vick...<br />
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Family and friends of the V Dogs, I will be leading a campaign on behalf of the dogs who did and did not walk of MV's compound alive to ensure the integrity of the rescue world remains intact. I was reading what Francis Battista of Best Friends Animal Society has written, and ANY reputable rescue or breeder would not adopt/sell to this man. Part of trying to help ensure the integrity of the rescue and reputable breeding world is making sure that the animals are going into loving and homes that will allow for ALL parties to be enriched by their new addition. Sadly, this is not the case for ALL rescuers and breeders. We will be putting our voice to trying to ensure that no dog ever go to MV's home.<br />
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The outcome of this particular dog fight bust may have its benefits in having created awareness, but, truth be told, the effects on actual dog fighting is not nearly enough. How can it be when the cause celebre sees its society driven main character is the main focus? Why is there not more written about the dogs? Dogs bred for it, dogs stolen for it? The aftermath of the rescue of all dogs is a costly affair, and it is a heartbreaking one. It is also a very overwhelming one. I have adopted each and every one of these dogs into my life, into my heart, and it KILLS me to know that there are too many of them who still suffer. Medically, emotionally and physically. Yes, I have made my peace with all of it, but, emotions and knowledge have a funny way of biting you in the arse.<br />
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When this came up months ago, I said I would do something. And I am. I thought long and hard all day about this, and what it could mean for this page and what I do- I would never want to jeopardize the goodness of these dogs and their people, or what the intention behind this is.<br />
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Here is what I had to say last night on the FB page:<br />
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I do not post things to do with MV...ever...on this page. So why am I posting tonight? Because this is well written, and I DO concur with the ASPCA (who played an integral part in helping the dogs survive) that he has not done anything to show he has been rehabilitated. And, it has come up on this page. To my knowledge, not ONE family has been contacted to see how the dogs are doing. There has been no attempt nor has he shown any public concern over the dogs (who are forever linked to him) he (and his friends) used and abused. It surely would have come to my ears, if he had, and it may seem like I would be dishonourable to the dogs I have come to love and their people to say this, but, I have heard nothing. When we gave him the opportunity to share a stage with the dogs on Oprah, he walked away. When Richard Hunter tried to show him Mel, and talk about Mel, he walked away.<br />
It makes me so very sad and angry that we live in a society that has lifted this man to be in a position he should never have- that of a role model. I have accepted what he has done, just as I have accepted that there are STILL dogs trying to overcome what he and his band of merry men did to them. (The stay in the shelters for 6 months did not help, either.) He should not have a dog, a cat, or even a goldfish. I would think even a pet rock would be more than I can think about. ANYONE with such little disregard for animals should NEVER have them in their homes. But, we all see too much of that, and standing up and putting your foot down on a celebrity would send a GREAT message. Lord knows the NFL did not do a good thing for society, in helping him come back. (See the people and the arrests in the NFL now? Crazy!) Using your kids as a sympathy card is rotten. What did he think of his kids when he went to the sheds?<br />
Those are my thoughts, and I hate to sully my page with this man, because he has ZERO place here. But, it has come up, and I am addressing it. This will be the ONLY time I do this, so please, use this to dialog. Please keep profanity out of it, there are kids on this page.<br />
Apologies V Dog families and friends if this is an offensive post.<br />
Much love to everyone. xoxox<br />
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Yes, Francis, I WILL be thinking of Lucas...I will also be thinking of Jhumpa, Ginger, Hector, Oscar (who I wanted to adopt) as well as Ray (who is STILL waiting for his home) Georgia, Ellen (RIP), Layla, Denzel, Curly and Meryl. I will also be thinking of every other little soul in rescue and places of breeding.<br />
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I will be posting the links to this mission this weekend. I ask for support from all, and I also ask to keep it mature and profanity free, because we DO have children who follow the Little Engines.<br />
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As always,<br />
Nikhi<br />
xo<br />
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<br />Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-51065014793496950002012-04-24T23:43:00.001-03:002012-04-24T23:43:59.907-03:00Fifth Anniversary WeekI cannot help but sit here and think of the men and women who had the heart and gut wrenching task of walking onto the property of Michael Vick, 5 years ago tomorrow. I cannot help but think of their anticipation as they prepared the night before. Surely it was a restless night filled with worry about how and what was to be done. If we were to compare this to being the V Dogs rebirth, then surely this night, 5 years ago, was the beginning of the labour pains. I cannot help but think, also, of how truly courageous and strong these people are, and if I would be able to do what gruesome and sad task lay ahead of them.<br /><br />The story of the V Dogs is one that begins and ends with the human-dog connection, and what we lack and excel at, as human beings. The police dog who walked the lot with his handler and found drugs in the car of MV's cousin, became a journey of compassionate and dedicated people who wanted nothing more than for these dogs to live full and happy lives. Determined people set on saving the lives of these fight ring dogs turned into a brighter future not only for the dogs who walked off that property alive, but, for so many who have come after.<br /><br />This week is going to be a celebration of the V Dogs and the people who love them. The people who invested so much of themselves, and the people who continue to keep the dogs safe and loved. The story from the beginning is not an easy one, but, it is one that needs to be shared, and truly listened to. We will look back, and we will look ahead. I am going to ask that the posts and blogs open up discussion, because with and through the V Dogs, we CAN open hearts and minds. More importantly, we, ourselves, can learn so much, so we can go into the world and be effective. Not just in rescue, but, in our own day to day lives. There is a lesson for each of us in the journey of the V Dogs and the people who love them.<br /><br />So many people are owed a lot, because of their determination and care throughout the journey thus far, I do hope I can do right by each of them, the dogs, and you.<br /><br />With the deepest respect and appreciation,<br />Nikhi xo<br /><br />Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-1154928881931232012-04-19T20:47:00.000-03:002012-04-19T21:47:14.501-03:00Let's Get the V Dogs on Ellen!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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We are coming up fast on the 5th anniversary of the Vicktory Dogs rescue, and we would love to see something special done for them, and every other dog out there who faces discrimination, abuse and hatred. So, why not help encourage Ellen DeGeneres to have them on her show? This is a global platform, and we ALL know that what faces Pit Bull type dogs in North America faces them globally. It has been an astounding 5 years for this collective group of dogs. What began in such uncertainty, has seen all living in their own first homes, with a few still working damn hard to make it there. The doors they have opened for dogs who come from the same life they led, Pit Bulls, and dogs in general are many. The doors they can open, remain many more.<br />
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">I am going to admit to being somewhat taken aback by some of the reactions I have gotten/seen from people over this quest. I have seen people not care to show the world how far they have come, and people flat out refuse to repost the video because they have issues with Ellen returning a puppy...and there have been other reasons for not sharing or wanting to see this happen. I ask everyone to put everything aside, for the bigger picture. The bigger picture is what ALL of the dogs have accomplished individually. So many dogs, from one situation worse than most people can even imagine...yet each is able to give and accept love. Some even reaching out to help children and adults learn a little more about overcoming. A collective group of amazing individual dogs who each stand for all our dogs. If you are fighting against BSL, or shelters who will not adopt out Pit Bull type dogs, you need to be in on this. This is too big not to, and I truly do care about what fate awaits thousands of dogs I have never met. I also care very much about the V Dogs, and I believe they have such tremendous power to open so many hearts and minds by appearing on one show. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This book under everyone's seat would open a lot of eyes!</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Time to pull together, and help raise the dogs above their past, and show the world just WHO they have become. Time to help Ellen, Oscar, Ray and Squeaker find the people they can call their own. It is time to share and to reach out to Ellen and get everyone on the love train. And please, remember this is not about Vick and his friends...this is about the dogs and their people. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Here is how:</span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://ellen.warnerbros.com/show/respond/?PlugID=10" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Click this link and write to Ellen...include the video and your thoughts!</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ellentv" target="_blank">Click this link to Ellen's Facebook page and share the video and your thoughts on the dogs appearing!</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can also get on Twitter and follow us @Vee_Dogs and share all the V Dog awesome with your friends!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Ellen is @TheEllenShow)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Use any and all means to reach out to everyone who wants to help the dogs and their people show the world what is possible. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These ears have powers of their own. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The power is in our hands...and we can do this, if we ALL pull together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Much love and respect, always...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Nikhi xo</span><br />
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</div>Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-90825480437230873112012-04-15T14:59:00.003-03:002012-04-15T15:06:23.782-03:00Can we help Samson find his forever home?<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It has been awhile since I have written on the blog, and I can't think of anything better to come back with, than helping Samson. No, he is not a former Vick dog, but, he is a little engine! For those of you on the Little Engines page, you may remember the little deaf man who was slated for euthanasia if a foster could not be found for him. Well, one was found, and we need to pull together again, to help him find his forever home. We did so well the first time around, I believe we can make this a home run.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Presently, Samson lives on the outskirts of Montreal, Quebec, in Laval. His fosters are willing to let him travel a little further, so he can be with his perfect family. You will see, looking at the videos, that being deaf does not diminish anything in this boy. He loves life!! He would make a great addition to almost any family. Almost? Well, not everyone should have dogs. And no, a deaf dog is not for everyone. But, they certainly can bring a lot of joy to your life. Just ask <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Echo-the-Deaf-Pittie-mix/112279615476230" target="_blank">Echo the Deaf Pittie Mix</a>'s mom. He is also quite the dog! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> From his foster mom:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Samson is still hoping for his forever home. He's safe and loved with foster Mom and Dad, but he knows he's with them waiting for the special family that will adopt him. Samson is now about 8 months old. Samson was rescued by a good samaritan that found him dumped behind a building and brought him to the SPCA Montreal. Although super intelligent, Samson IS a special needs ONLY because he is deaf. PLEASE DO NOT BE SCARED of the fact that he's deaf. He listens well and he's like any other dog that needs to be educated. Just more body language and gestures than just words.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">He is a mix : Dogue Argentin, American Terrier, Boxer (don't know the percentages)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Neutered & UTD with all shots.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Socialized with kittens, cats, small and big dogs (was good with mine anyways)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Learns quickly and wants to make his mom and dad happy. Is a cuddle bug</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Crate trained & 95% house trained... come on, he's a rescue from the SPCA and God know what his past is.. That's amazing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Foster Mom and Dad say he's a gem! Please share him so that we can fufill his dream! If you have questions, please ask Samson directly on his page. He'll be more than happy to answer any questions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You can also email foster mom here: jnbraul@hotmail.com<br /><br /><br />Here are a couple videos of this handsome little man. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100003612196594" target="_blank">If you need to friend him on Facebook to see them, please do! </a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=117095311754208" target="_blank">Foster mommy, I can't hear you!</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=115172578613148" target="_blank">I'm a good boy!</a><br /><br />Reaching out for Samson means another dog can be brought into a foster system. Let's face it, dogs with special needs often start with the same fate Samson did. Please help open another door for another dog, and share Samson.<br /><br />Many thanks, V Dog friends.<br />As always,<br />Nikhi<br />xo</span>Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-48315910117504424382012-02-27T13:24:00.000-04:002012-02-27T13:24:28.585-04:00Positive Affirmations with the Vick Dogs: Part 1<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">There is so much we can learn through the Vick Dogs, things that can be applied to our own human lives. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Like learning there really is no obstacle that we cannot overcome. Might take a little longer for some things, but, overcome it, you will!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Or, maybe, that when we are so hurt and low in our lives, it is hard to imagine a time when we can smile. But, there is a time when we can. Because...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">There will always be someone.... a sister, a brother, a mother or father, a friend, or even a stranger who is willing to stand beside us, when we need that extra strength.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So if you need time to heal, that is okay, just do not forget that being able to smile means that you are on the road to healing. And one final thought...<br /><br /></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0IeYn1rRBxk/T0uwXf-JD-I/AAAAAAAAAKA/qP4XZ9X6lGs/s1600/jhumpa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0IeYn1rRBxk/T0uwXf-JD-I/AAAAAAAAAKA/qP4XZ9X6lGs/s320/jhumpa.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Never, ever let anyone overpower you with what they see and point out on your outside...everyone is beautiful and are the most beautiful when they let their inner selves shine.<br /><br /><br />While this may seem silly to some, it is only because they have not taken the time to truly see that we really are not that different from these (or any) dogs...we all feel and we all get scared and we all have to work something out at some point in our lives. Some are a little greater than others, but, in the end, anything is possible if you let yourself.<br /><br />Much love to all of you amazing V Dog friends,<br />Nikhi</span></div>Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-62605701618706496832012-02-09T14:04:00.001-04:002012-02-11T20:05:50.477-04:00Moving Forward and Bringing Positive Changes with Hector the Pit Bull and the Ronald McDonald House<div style="text-align: left;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KGNDaexH1w8/TzQIhmgxMpI/AAAAAAAAAII/W67B2lAf_FE/s1600/207440_10150215337129810_372900479809_8564934_2224391_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KGNDaexH1w8/TzQIhmgxMpI/AAAAAAAAAII/W67B2lAf_FE/s320/207440_10150215337129810_372900479809_8564934_2224391_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hector the Pit Bull, showing his positive side</td></tr>
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This post may upset or offend some, and while this is NOT my intention, I am going into this hoping that a positive and progressive approach can be started with the help of one of the Vick Dogs, Hector. I have never made it a secret that I share my home with cats and a Bichon Frise and I have not shared my home with a Pit Bull type dog. I have also never hidden the fact that it was Hector and his family who have propelled me into becoming an active voice for all animals, through the Vick Dogs. I understand the need for Pit Bull type dogs to be viewed the same as every other dog, just as much as I appreciate the things that make them different and nice to be around. Yes, it all started with Hector and his family, and it has grown to what I am proud to say is a little community of people who respect and appreciate the dogs and their people vs. that other business and the man at the head of it. <br /><br />There is also another side to this McDonalds business, the Ronald McDonald House. A place where families go when a child is sick or ill. In fact, I was pretty close to needing this service as I waited to see what my daughter's fate was, last summer, after a near fatal peanut exposure. I know how important it is for families like mine, who are out of town, and are worried and scared than most people can imagine. Considering what the situation was, and which hospital my daughter was rushed to, I was fortunate that I could sleep in her room. I was also fortunate that IF I needed a place to go to relax and to take one of the 11 nights to get my energy back- this option was there, for me. An option as readily available as friend's homes who were also in the city. What you read below, what I offer as a way to move forward is so infused with everything about this failed campaign and my personal relationship to it. Including <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HectorThePitBull" target="_blank">Hector The Pit Bull</a>, Vick dog extraordinaire. We talked about it, and we agreed that this would be one hell of a commercial for everyone. Not one about food or necessarily a "you owe us", but one that could open a world of acceptance for people and for Pit Bull type dogs. I see further than that, I see a lot of healing that can happen for a lot of people through a lot of dogs. All dogs and all people. It also means that more people will know what happened to at least one Vick dog, and know whatever they thought ugly or negative was wrong. This whole paragraph is not something I shared, at the time, because I was not sure I wanted to be so personal. How can I not be, though? When it is through the Vick Dogs and seeing for myself what Hector is able to do for people. That it is because what I see in him (and the others) that I have decided upon who my daughter's working dog will be. Yes, I have been paying close attention to Hector, and I am glad I did.<br /><br />So, I ask you all to think about what has happened since the airing of what should have been a tongue-in-cheek advertising campaign for McDonalds' McBites that completely and irrevocably became a PR nightmare for them. People were offended and hurt that this one place that sits within all our memories so fondly could betray us. It is understandable that pain and anger would ensue. With everything the media portrays, every person they have helped stand behind what literally kills members of our families, it is terrifying. This is an international company, a company that sees its restaurants sitting in every corner of the world, a world that is not kind to Pit Bull type dogs. A world where every dog who reacts becomes a Pit Bull. Not always the case, but, there are no issues or concerns about the people it hurts. We see governments deciding they may have got it wrong with BSL, and we see people thinking this is the only option- that BSL is a good thing. We know it is not. We know that this handful of people who use and abuse any dog, the handful who choose to fight dogs for sport, and yes, even the only part of the history that people cannot seem to shake, has made it bad and hard for everyone. I have seen people of all ages, races, and walks of life who share their life with dogs who fall under the Pit Bull umbrella. I have gotten to know some of you through <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Vicktory-Dogs-The-Little-Engines-That-Will/223339444358574" target="_blank">the Facebook version of the Little Engines</a>. I enjoy it and I love that there is an opportunity to show the world that some of its population has got it wrong. I love that we are able to show that not everything is bad, and what is, should be dealt with. I love that we are able to all stand together and share how much we can learn from the Vick Dogs.<br />
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I have experienced the insult and the anger with and for each of you who has felt the offense, fear and hurt this ridiculous campaign has caused. I am part of the Pit Bull community, because I have put myself there. I too will eventually bring a dog into the home, where people will judge me. As part of the community, I feel it necessary to point something out. I do not like the aggressiveness and the anger that is being displayed. I do not like seeing people so consumed with fear and outrage that, while representing me, my friends and these dogs I work every single day to present in a positive light, that people are not looking at what can truly happen here. I am not an opportunist, but, let me tell you, when I see an opportunity to do something good and positive, you better believe I will take it. Placing demands on McDonalds and saying they owe us this, and they owe us that is ridiculous. Waiting for it to simply go away, is not something I foresee happening in the very near future. Some things take a little more to overcome, and sometimes, it is justified. In absolute fairness, they did publicly apologize. But, sitting on this end, I too fear this is not enough. Not enough for us, and not enough for them. After all, how can we not be concerned with how this will go on to affect the donations that some Pit Bull owners have given to the Ronald McDonald House? Or what we are doing, saying and feeling, and then acting out on is going to affect the kids and families who do need this option. Again, in all fairness, there is a bigger picture involved here.<br />
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I want to encourage everyone to share that we CAN move forward, and in a rational and positive fashion, help achieve something for not only Pit Bulls, but for ALL animals. The most valuable lesson I have learned from my year in being one small piece of the Vick Dog journey, is this: Chances are worth being given. If a chance was not taken on the Vick Dogs, so they could go on and lead by example, how many of you now would not have the dog beside you? How many things would not have changed, had it been decided that there was no use for giving them a chance? I know you know the answer to that. I offer each and every person a way to take that example, which was positive and progressive and continue on with it. I offer each of you to help see Hector and his friends lead the way. I offer each of you the chance to stand behind working to see Hector and his friends become the face of change, and yes, it is with McDonalds in a Ronald McDonald House commercial. We want to petition them to use a real dog who has overcome. A real face of moving forward and being positive. A real therapy dog who is comfortable in front of the cameras and being with children.. How many children has he taught about overcoming? How many patients has he visited and gave a much needed smile and boost to? He is willing, his parents are willing and I am willing. This may be a bit of great PR for the dogs, but, do you know what else it is good for? It is good for each and every animal who needs a chance. It is also good for people, to know that it is possible to move forward and heal from any pain. And it is excellent for every single person with a dog who would like to give back to the community. Learning more about Hector can open a whole new world to many,many people. Learning about Hector will make people curious about the rest of the Vick Dogs, where they will learn even more about all that is possible. And most importantly, people will be able to see that all dogs are created equally, and it is the certain charms and quirks of the individual that stands out. Yes, seeing Hector and friends CAN do all this. And it should be a commercial for the Ronald McDonald House.<br />
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I encourage each of you to come and join us, as we work towards a positive end. This is a major corporation with a large reach, and yes, they do have one of the most wonderful facilities available to children and their families who need such a service. This can work out for everyone, if we all just sit and think of what can be accomplished. Putting a little pressure on to see this happen is not a bad thing, despite what anyone says. It can be a win-win for everyone. And in the end, isn't that all we want to see? A chance for everyone to be able to show a softer side and what great work can be done when people and animals work together for healing?<br />
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I have chosen to once again use Facebook as my tool. It HAS worked before. Click the link and put your name behind positive. Use what you have to make it better for the dogs, and the people who love them. I cannot think of a better dog to lead this pack of people to a positive outcome and even more positive change. Please click and stand with us as we work towards a Ronald McDonald House commercial featuring Hector and friends.<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/379643225386096/">http://www.facebook.com/events/379643225386096/</a><br />
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As always,<br />
Nikhi xoNhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-17718455606632633912012-02-08T11:27:00.001-04:002012-02-08T11:40:25.062-04:00Handsome Dan's Rescue for Pit Bull Type Dogs/Outbound Hounds are Top Dogs<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Np9xJdt0Sik/TzJ1q29QDoI/AAAAAAAAAHI/4LTSJdYVHHg/s1600/388769_312427432132033_159115694129875_866016_169472872_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="115" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Np9xJdt0Sik/TzJ1q29QDoI/AAAAAAAAAHI/4LTSJdYVHHg/s200/388769_312427432132033_159115694129875_866016_169472872_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handsome Dan and Bluegrass Jake</td></tr>
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Although today is one of the hardest days within the home of Handsome Dan's Rescue for Pit Bull Type Dogs, it is a day where new strength will be found. A new determination that carries forward love and respect for not just Bluegrass Jake and his memory, and from every other dog that has walked through the doors of the rescue, and those who will be lucky enough to know the patience, love and understanding of the people behind and within this rescue.<br />
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I am so fortunate to get to know more about the Vick dog families, and the people behind the dogs. Such a world has opened up for me, where I have met some of the very best of people this world have to offer. One set of parents I have come to admire and respect are Handsome Dan's parents, Heather and Mark. Their ability to reach out to the dogs who need the most help and attention is unmatched by the openness with which they share each dog's journey. Like many who rescue, they truly care about the dogs, and each dog receives his or her spotlight so you truly get to <span style="font-family: inherit;">know the dogs. As you are given the opportunity to meet each dog, you find yourself drawn in and cheering them on as they overcome an obstacle or relish</span> in their silly delights. When a dog is taken into HDR, and the circle of well chosen and amazing foster families, they are not merely taken into rescue, they are taken into homes. That everything is shared openly and frankly through Handsome Dan's Facebook page, the opportunity to be a part of this amazing little rescue out of Providence, RI, is one that will change the way you see rescuers and rescuees.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3guCCzCR8T0/TzKIgSkJ1yI/AAAAAAAAAHY/psfgcFBIto0/s1600/404538_322798671094909_159115694129875_888057_86010808_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3guCCzCR8T0/TzKIgSkJ1yI/AAAAAAAAAHY/psfgcFBIto0/s200/404538_322798671094909_159115694129875_888057_86010808_n.jpg" width="126" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heather at work</td></tr>
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What makes this rescuing super-duo so special is that they are able to offer training. Not just to the dogs they have opened their rescue to, but, to others who also need a little extra guidance and help. Through <a href="http://obhounds.com/Training.aspx" target="_blank">Outbound Hounds</a>, Heather offers everything from Bringing Home Baby, to Fearful Dogs. You can even sign up for Basic Obedience, Behaviour Modification and a Puppy Package/Newly Adopted training sessions. If this is not enough, OH also offers something for us, the people behind the dogs-<a href="http://obhounds.com/class.aspx" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"> Canine Life and Social Skills for Pet Owners. </a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Worth checking out. There is also a </span><a href="http://obhounds.com/sitemap.aspx" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Pet Sitting Service</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and a </span><a href="http://obhounds.com/pups.aspx" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Dog Park Trip</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> offered. They offer it all! From my correspondence with Heather, I can tell you that this is the person you would want as a trainer, for she truly cares about the dogs as family members and is kind, open, honest and frank. Very good qualities in a person, even better with a trainer!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">HDR has some truly wonderful dogs up for adoption. Heather and Mark choose well, by reaching out to the dogs who may not get the attention from adopters, because they are shy, have seen more abuse or need more capable hands. Betsy was the one who truly grabbed my attention. Such a beautiful girl with the pee stained paws. She did well. Very well. Like all before her, she now lives in a happy, loving home. The best place to see who is available for adoption is through </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/media/albums/?id=159115694129875" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Handsome Dan's Facebook page</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, And HDR is listed on </span><a href="http://www.petfinder.com/pet-search?shelterid=RI108" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Petfinder.com.</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Through Handsome Dan's Facebook page, you can also see how Heather and Mark reach out to the community, through Kong or Bully Drives and free spay/neuter for at-risk Pit Bull type dogs through their Voucher Program. Donations are always welcome and always needed. <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 14px;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mark and Dan<br />
showing Hector love</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, there are a lot of people who work in rescue that I have come to respect and admire, probably much like you. There is something very special about what Heather and Mark do, they make some tough choices </span>and allow us all to share their triumphs and pain <span style="font-family: inherit;">and they do it and share it all with grace and style. They do right by the dogs they take in and adopt, and they do right by the people who want to adopt. That is not always so common, and it is appreciated. I am so pleased that they have a chance to gain a little recognition for all the work they do, as well as being able to be a group to look upon and learn from. When I heard that The Animal Print was having a voting survey for </span><a href="http://www.theanimalprint.com/readerschoicewinners.html" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Top Dog 2011</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, I knew I wanted to write about HDR and OH, and all that Heather and Mark do. I knew I wanted to help them achieve some recognition for what they do, because in my books, they are top dog. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you would like to help more people become aware of their mission, you can. The survey is very simple to fill out, and you only have to answer 15 of the questions. The only info you are asked to give is your email address, and that is only if you would like to enter the draw for an iPad. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is where you vote: </span><a href="http://surveys.verticalresponse.com/a/show/690220/0f2f225e1b/0">http://surveys.verticalresponse.com/a/show/690220/0f2f225e1b/0</a><br />
The most important questions to answer are:<br />
#16 Dog Trainer- please write in "Heather Gutshall/Outbound Hounds"<br />
#43 Volunteer/Rescue/Shelter- please write in "Handsome Dan's Rescue for Pit Bull Type Dogs"<br />
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You know, Heather and Mark are not only amazing to the dogs they bring in and help adopt out, they are good to each and every one of us for truly opening their world and life with Handsome Dan. I DO hope you take the time to do this fast survey and help them see a little recognition from this. The more people in their area that know who they are and what they do, the more homes that become available to foster and adopt. That means more lives can be saved. And that is awesome!<br />
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Thanks for taking the time to read about Handsome Dan's parents.<br />
Yours in rescue,<br />
Nikhi xo</div>Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-52446323688344214542012-01-14T01:51:00.008-04:002012-01-14T19:34:27.039-04:0020 Questions with Hector the Pit Bull, Ambassadog Extraordinaire<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Dh1W727-kg/TxD2aCYnodI/AAAAAAAAAE4/E1-hMB9m94s/s1600/149571_10150099357394810_372900479809_7419046_6844996_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Dh1W727-kg/TxD2aCYnodI/AAAAAAAAAE4/E1-hMB9m94s/s200/149571_10150099357394810_372900479809_7419046_6844996_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Josh Grenell</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hector was rescued from Michael Vick's property as one of 51 Pit Bulls who were part of a dog fighting operation. Once you look at </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">this tan coated dog with the soft eyes, goofy smile and gentle face, </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">it is easy to overlook the scars he earned (as a means of survival) that spread across his chest and arms.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It is also easy to sit in awe of Hector- for all he has put behind him, that he can easily sit and exude pure joy and a love of life. Reaching out with his people to let others know there is one little soul who truly enjoys their presence. He, along with sibling Wallace, are ambassadogs not only to their breed, but to all dogs everywhere. He appears at movie screenings, on talk shows, does interviews and works hard to show people what a good dog really is. Despite what people think, Hector has proven time and time again that you cannot judge a book by its cover, and that everyone can rise above a painful and scary past. Yes, you can learn from a dog. I have. You are invited to do the same.</span><br />
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<b>Twenty Questions With Hector the Pit Bull</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> What is a typical day in the life of Hector like?<br />
<i>Most days are filled with sleeping, sprinting around the house, </i></span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">more sleeping, maybe a walk, food, </i><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and snuggling as close as possible to the people.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What do you like to play with? Do you play well with your siblings?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I like the durable toys we have around the house (West Paw Design, JW Pet Balls, and black Kongs), but my new favorite toys are the logs sitting in front of the fireplace. I try to play nice with my siblings, but they do not play like I do, so I mostly sprint around the house as Hurricane Hector while they take cover in doorways and under tables waiting out the storm.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What is your favourite food to eat? Does it ever come from your parents plate?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i> I like most snacks. My favorite is raw vegetables. They're crunchy and good for me. I don't usually get to share from plates.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We know you had a rough start to life, is there anything that upsets you today, because of it?<br />
<i> Sometimes, I think I see things in the shadows at night that nobody else sees. I growl until it goes away. But 99% of the time, I have no worries.</i><br />
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A lot of people who have not followed your story since you went home, would be surprised to know you work with people. What would you like them to know?<br />
<i> I want them to know I am grateful for the chance I have been given so I show it by giving back. It wasn't hard becoming a therapy dog. I just had to be myself. I guess some people like all those titles and it validates me somehow, but I don't need them to know that I love being gentle and silly and easy going. </i>(Hector the Inspector- CGC, TDI, ATTS, TDinc)<br />
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How do you prepare to go on your therapy outings?<br />
<i>I don't need any special preparation. My people try to take me for a long walk or run before I do a therapy visit, in hopes that I may be less rambunctious, but it really doesn't work.</i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NWn0WdvpwLw/TxEXAazIYKI/AAAAAAAAAGw/gWd9KPlD_Tw/s1600/268672_10150312122194810_372900479809_9470129_7695220_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NWn0WdvpwLw/TxEXAazIYKI/AAAAAAAAAGw/gWd9KPlD_Tw/s200/268672_10150312122194810_372900479809_9470129_7695220_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hector and Angus</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i>You have met a lot of kids, while working as a therapy dog, what would you like other kids to know before approaching you?<br />
<i>I love all kids, and they can hug and kiss me all they want. But, I've heard that some dogs do not understand kids and they get scared, so it is best to teach kids to ask before petting a dog. I've done a few visits where kids practice asking to pet me and how to approach without being overwhelming to a dog.</i><br />
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What do you think you could teach people?<br />
<i>I learned very quickly that I would miss out on some amazing people if I assumed they were all like my first people. Experience everything and keep an open mind.</i></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31i26r6t2-E/TxEHoVGB-gI/AAAAAAAAAGA/YSOWcYoNxN0/s1600/33753_485078134809_372900479809_6987930_6109893_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31i26r6t2-E/TxEHoVGB-gI/AAAAAAAAAGA/YSOWcYoNxN0/s200/33753_485078134809_372900479809_6987930_6109893_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Melissa L.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What would you tell people to help them overcome their fear of Pit Bulls?<br />
<i>The best way to overcome their fear is to meet a lot of dogs. Once you start meeting nice dogs and their owners (who will be very excited to talk about their dog) you'll find that everything is hunky dory.</i><br />
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Do you have a girlfriend?<br />
<i>Not at the moment, but I can tell you about "the one that got away". Her name was Beatrix and she was living at Animal Farm Foundation at the same time I was. She was looking for her forever home but instead found this 50-pound, slightly uncoordinated hunk of a man. She was my size and we could run and play until our tongues were as floppy as the day is long. Then we would stroll through the grass, and eat some of it, too. She was so beautiful and I am not surprised she found a loving home.</i><b><i> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=399524079654" target="_blank">Hector and Beatrix video. </a></i></b><br />
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Would you like to answer some questions from your fans?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Fans? Does every dog have fans? Because they should!</i></span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A lot of fans want to know about your flop. When did it start? Do you do it because you like the headrush or because you know everyone will swoon?</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fwZuNdM7x4M/TxEAstaP97I/AAAAAAAAAFY/sKitnWy5t88/s1600/35212_451969844809_372900479809_6199109_5806373_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fwZuNdM7x4M/TxEAstaP97I/AAAAAAAAAFY/sKitnWy5t88/s200/35212_451969844809_372900479809_6199109_5806373_n.jpg" width="128" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Katie Bray</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>My foster home in California started that. It gets a good laugh and some "aaaw's" and people can see my scars when I am upside down. And it does give me a mild headrush, so there really is no downside to The Flop.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you think doing your flop or zoomies is what makes you run into your siblings and break things?</span><br />
<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Zoomies are my favorite things in the world. I can't wait to have a fenced yard again so I can run and run.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A lot of your fans are curious to know if you conquered any Christmas ornaments, this year.</span><br />
<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">No, not this year. We had to move in with my grandpa recently (don't tell him I call him that). Apparently, he didn't want his ornaments demolished. I still don't understand what they are for then. So they just put lights on the tree. I still chewed on the branches and and took bows off of presents. </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Kara asks:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EkAFwimwpa8/TxET6g6wf2I/AAAAAAAAAGo/DpvQZHpASiM/s1600/36449_440071699809_372900479809_5889556_5783269_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="154" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EkAFwimwpa8/TxET6g6wf2I/AAAAAAAAAGo/DpvQZHpASiM/s320/36449_440071699809_372900479809_5889556_5783269_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hector and Wallace </td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You and Wallace are both SUPERSTARS, are there ever any issues with a bit too much ego in the house? Any competition for mirror space, tussling over fan mail or bickering over the throngs of fans?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <i>What?! We're superstars?! Wallace, did you hear that? Thanks for letting us know, Kara.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sarah asks:</span><br />
<div style="text-align: right;"></div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I would love to know how much fan mail Hector gets from all the ladies who love him, and his idea of the perfect Valentine's Day date. Also, his thoughts on dog Snuggies.<br />
<i>I don't get a lot of real mail, but I get a lot of nice comments on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HectorThePitBull" target="_blank">Facebook page.</a> People are so nice! As far as my idea of a perfect Valentine's Day date, I am looking for a girl who likes the simple things in life. I love nature walks and warm naps in the sun.<br />
Snuggies are perfect because they are made of fleece. I love the static it gives me from rolling around on fleece. It gives me the zoomies!</i><br />
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Chris asks:<br />
Does Hector get rewarded with affection or does he use his charms to get what he wants?<br />
<i>My people don't practice a strict "nothing in life is free" approach, but I don't get spoiled either. Sometimes I get a treat just for looking cute, but I also know a lot of tricks and will offer those up for some morsels. And sometimes affection is my reward.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kerry asks:</span><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/9Qr5Ga82DV8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When you meet the people who helped you </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and your cousins, from the past, do you know </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">who they are?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <i>I haven't seen many of those people since I </i></span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">left California. I did see Tim and Donna from</i><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </i><a href="http://www.badrap.org/" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">BAD RAP</a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">last year in New York and that was </i><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">really fun. It was like no time had passed. I </i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>would love to go back to California and see </i></span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">my old friends sometime. </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Susi asks:</span><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OPCWGNz28xo/TxECWFbSAZI/AAAAAAAAAFo/eI7m44AKNOU/s1600/36449_440075634809_372900479809_5889587_3994903_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OPCWGNz28xo/TxECWFbSAZI/AAAAAAAAAFo/eI7m44AKNOU/s1600/36449_440075634809_372900479809_5889587_3994903_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is there anything you haven't yet done, but would like to try </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(surfing, hang gliding, riding in a helicopter, scuba diving)?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Ride in a motorcycle side-car! Roo has a motorcycle and I have a helmet. We just need a sidecar!! I'm going to ask Santa for that next year. I think I would also like to ride in a motorboat and walk down the streets of Denver. One can hope.</i><br />
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And finally, Teem asks:<br />
Are you really as cuddly as you seem to be?<br />
<i>Yes. When I am not running or licking the floor or inspecting my surroundings. Yes.</i></span><br />
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</i><b> Questions for Clara and Roo.</b></span><br />
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How has life changed since Hector came into your life?<br />
<i>The warm response that we receive from people gives us hope. Hector has brought us on so many adventures around the country. We met many wonderful people that we probably wouldn't have met if not for him and Wallace. </i></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Josh Grenell</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i>What have you learned through him?<br />
<i>As open-minded as we were when we decided to adopt him, the resiliency that Hector has shown has still been astounding.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wouldn't be a complete interview if the siblings were not asked what Hector is like as a brother...<br />
<i>He's a typical little brother. We sometimes tire of his enthusiasm and energy, but we still love him and appreciate the liveliness he brings to our little family.</i><br />
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I hope you enjoyed learning a little more about one extraordinary dog who lives with an awesome and inspiring family. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X2IZ2ZVXQBc/TxEQQuW7PQI/AAAAAAAAAGg/lnlp9T6gT3s/s1600/264232_10150312122269810_372900479809_9470131_2364044_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X2IZ2ZVXQBc/TxEQQuW7PQI/AAAAAAAAAGg/lnlp9T6gT3s/s400/264232_10150312122269810_372900479809_9470131_2364044_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Many thanks to Hector, Clara and Roo and siblings for taking the time to do this interview. And thanks to Josh Grenell, Katie Bray and Melissa L. for the courtesy of allowing the use of these amazing shots of Hector.<br />
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And thank you.<br />
-Nikhi<br />
</span>Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-48441039151956846232012-01-11T20:44:00.001-04:002012-01-11T23:35:44.751-04:00Former Vick Dogs: Looking For a Place to Call Home<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I first set out to do this blog, one of the posts I knew I was going to do was one for the Vicktory Dogs who are presently looking for homes. When I set out to start writing this a few days ago, I had mentally prepared everything. As I started to get the links to the dogs adoption pages on <a href="http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/" target="_blank">the Best Friends Animal Society</a> site, I had a moment of panic when I could find neither Ellen or Georgia through my usual search. I knew <a href="http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013627" target="_blank">Georgia</a> had a pending forever home, but, what happened to Ellen? When I finally located both little ladies, everything I had planned for this post disappeared...I was overwhelmed with devastation. May sound a little over dramatic for some, but, to find them both listed on the senior page, beside another dog's face I recognized, <a href="http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=107310" target="_blank">Lena</a>, I truly was devastated. What did this mean for these dogs who have been waiting long enough to finally know a home? People rid themselves of their senior dogs, not many are wanting to have a "new" dog they will say goodbye to, sooner, rather than later. It is a special person who will reach out to these senior animals who need homes. (Not all the Vicktory Dogs up for adoption are seniors, but, only guesstimates have been made for their ages.) I am hoping, with all I have in me, that the people for the 4 Vicktory Dogs waiting on forever homes, are out there.<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></span><a href="http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013629" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: large;">ELLEN</span></b></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lh1nn_q9Vl0/Tw4k9SP5TmI/AAAAAAAAAEI/s_ZltkTjhYI/s1600/3096808692_eb55def913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lh1nn_q9Vl0/Tw4k9SP5TmI/AAAAAAAAAEI/s_ZltkTjhYI/s320/3096808692_eb55def913.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am not going to post anything about them, other than their names and a picture. Click the links (their names above their pictures) to learn more. Consider what they need from a home and what is best suited to their individual needs. I refuse to believe that there is not one home for each of them, and their needs. I refuse to believe that whoever adopts them will not have a more fulfilling life. I refuse to believe that they are not as important as any other animal, based on where they are, now. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013639" target="_blank">RAY</a></span></b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mk39eOOql04/Tw4lta7ZS9I/AAAAAAAAAEQ/dXn0kujriQE/s1600/385436_331299036895947_223339444358574_1366965_905327208_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mk39eOOql04/Tw4lta7ZS9I/AAAAAAAAAEQ/dXn0kujriQE/s1600/385436_331299036895947_223339444358574_1366965_905327208_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
The Vicktory Dogs, and those from similar backgrounds, often have some issues from their former lives. It can be health or emotional. Much like we humans are able to overcome, or live a life to its fullest, the same can be said for our animal friends. Issues like babesia (a blood parasite common in fight dogs) is treatable, as is helping a dog feel safe and secure in a new place. True, there is a different set of rules for adopting these dogs, which makes sense- high profile case with dogs who helped change the course of life for many who came after. There are also differing "must and must not" have in future families, which is normal, considering where they come from. There are lingering health issues. Not one of these things should put a person off, once they know what the dog is best not to be around. Health issues can be dealt with, with the help of a trusted vet and trust comes with work. That should not be anything that holds anyone back- if it were, most of us would be living a very lonely life. Same for us, same for them- in those two respects. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013621" target="_blank">OSCAR</a></span></b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zOV5r6WspP4/Tw4nTgxLK5I/AAAAAAAAAEg/gxFthIfSj6s/s1600/381465_331301073562410_223339444358574_1366970_1308223232_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zOV5r6WspP4/Tw4nTgxLK5I/AAAAAAAAAEg/gxFthIfSj6s/s320/381465_331301073562410_223339444358574_1366970_1308223232_n.jpg" width="198" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have heard a lot of people say they love Best Friends, no place like it. I cannot argue that. BUT, it is still a place for healing. It should remain a home for only those whose lives were spared, but cannot live in a home. Dogs who are ready should be in homes. It is best for them, the people who adopt and makes room for others to also benefit from healing hearts and hands. If I can put it another way- how would you feel, knowing you were ready to go home after surgery, but could not, because the only thing needed was someone to take you there and remain a source of aide? Not uncommon, and it is the same thing here. Except, they have not yet met those people, where we have. I do not like the amount of animals needing homes. I hate seeing Pit Bulls get the short end of the stick. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hate what I see, daily, in amounts of dogs and cats needing homes. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Mostly, I hate thinking that because a rescue is great and has excellent caregivers, that this is a reason to push adoptable dogs (and cats) in their care aside for others, who are also in need of a warm bed and loving hearts. This also goes for the countless dogs sitting in boarding.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013640" target="_blank">SQUEAKER</a></span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3hWUq5h7-e4/Tw4oBpaeeMI/AAAAAAAAAEo/J1gWCN_qFrU/s1600/263755_181717991884353_134215559967930_490334_4945903_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3hWUq5h7-e4/Tw4oBpaeeMI/AAAAAAAAAEo/J1gWCN_qFrU/s320/263755_181717991884353_134215559967930_490334_4945903_n.jpg" width="307" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
My sole purpose and thoughts reside with 4 dogs who have seen hell, and have come out on top. Dogs who faced what we would not wish on our worst enemies, and overcome. Dogs who opened the doors for many more after them, and still wait to know what "Home Sweet Home" means. Dogs who simply need a chance and to be more than part of a collective group of amazing and beautiful dogs. Dogs who need a home. Not because they belonged to a famous quarterback, not because they are Pit Bulls. Because they are dogs who can teach us a lot more than we can ever teach them. Because they have worked their tails off to earn this.<br />
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Please reach out and share these 4 dogs- their homes are out there, just waiting to be blessed by them. It is time for them to go home.<br />
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You can get a little insight into what life for Squeaker and Oscar has been like the past year, by visiting the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Victory-for-Squeaker/134215559967930" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> they share. A little more about where they are spending their days, lately, as the newest members of Parrot Garden- where many of their fine feathered friends are also looking for homes.<br />
Visit the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Best-Friends-Animal-Society-Parrot-Garden/151833614851566" target="_blank">Parrot Garden Facebook page.</a><br />
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Many thanks for taking the time to read and share these precious dogs.<br />
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As always,<br />
-Nikhi<br />
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</span></div>Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-1492630330053402782012-01-07T16:22:00.004-04:002012-01-08T12:38:24.109-04:00The Economy, BSL and a Place to Live<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b>Last night, as I sat and put my questions together for Hector, I began to mentally prepare all the questions I have about the Vick dogs still looking for homes. This blog excites me, because of what it can do for them, and all animals who just need that chance to enrich someone's life. Then something hit me. It was another blog post I planned to do, in future. That seems a little more pressing now, because it involves people. People with families, people with pets. Animals cannot be saved without people and people should not have to give up their pets because they cannot find a place to live who accepts pets, or they face losing their homes. My sincerest hope is that this will offer you an option to have a home, always.<br />
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I started thinking about how desperate the economy is, everywhere. Then, I had another thought...BSL (Breed Specific Legislation). I grew up in a city that imposed BSL, but when you got to the end of the city and crossed the street to the next, it was not imposed. This happens everywhere, in every country- even though we are seeing varying degrees of victories, it is a devastating issue, much like the economy is now. Economy and BSL and the impact on families. THIS is what this blog is about.<br />
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I am a simple person, my daughter is as well. Give us our laptops, books, place to bake and our animals, put together in a warm place to live- we are set. I started looking into options to see me one day become a home owner. As I would look through the pics of the homes for sale and floor plans, I came across the Tiny House Movement. I was blown away. How completely brilliant, and it was happening everywhere. Some of the houses were a little small for my liking, but some...so perfect for an animal lover. Some are mobile, some are not.. They are transformed school buses, yurts or simple little houses.They even have little Hobbit homes and transformed garbage and shipping containers. The options are endless. But, they are that- options.<br />
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One of my first stops on the Tiny House Train was <a href="http://www.tumbleweedhouses.com/" target="_blank">Tumbleweed Tiny House Company</a>. The one I thought could do us well was <a href="http://www.tumbleweedhouses.com/houses/fencl/" target="_blank">the Fencl</a>. My daughter would have her own space in the sleep loft, and I could remain downstairs. Not a lot of room to run, inside, but, would get us outside and enjoying life. What dog would not love that? Eager to know more, I continued looking and I came across <a href="http://tinyhouseblog.com/" target="_blank">Tiny House Blog</a>. This has become a valuable resource while I look for the best options. The blog covers every corner of the world, and shows some very unique ideas on living small- where and how. For more insight into what types of home are available, and from who, I came across <a href="http://www.tinyhousedesign.com/" target="_blank">Tiny House Design</a>. I am sure some are gasping at the thought of adding children to a life of tiny house living, but it is doable. An article on <a href="http://tinyhouselistings.com/living-tiny-with-kids/" target="_blank">Tiny House Listings</a> can help you learn a little more about how. I do think that this would also include people who have furry children. There are still things to be considered. They have toys and clothes for weather, as well. Not as much, maybe more. <br />
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Comforts we have become accustomed to are still available when living small, and they do not have to be as imposing. I am sure you love your big washing machine and matching dryer, but there are compact versions that will not be imposing, but still be effective. Same as stoves, fridges, sinks, dishwashers and bathing. Crate training can still happen with furniture (like a table) that can serve double duty. Will not be a good choice for some of the tiny homes, but, again, it comes down to options. Stairs can be transformed into bookcases, that will enable your pet easy access to the bed they are accustomed to sleeping in, while giving you place to put items. Wicker or metal boxes in some, empty for a cat to nestle into. (Although we all know the cat will prefer the spot already taken.) A litter box can be put in the shower stall, leashes can be hung under a coat or a double duty piece of furniture.<br />
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One thing that would worry me is this- moving to a tiny home and leaving your pet outside. I could never condone this...ever. The choice to go small is a big one, and each and every option should be weighed. You can keep your family together, no need to worry about where you will live with your dog and you can really enjoy life. You need to think what are the most important things in life. You would have to downsize, which means storing, selling or donating a lot , or even most, of your possessions. I bet if you get down to it, all that is really important is your family staying together and having a place to rest your heads-even if only the basic comforts are met. A place to call home. The things that are most important is what truly touches our hearts. Is it the big tv and oversized sofa? Or is it peace of mind, enjoying life and being together?<br />
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I know for a lot of people, the money factor is an obstacle. So, I share Dee Williams, her dog and the home they share. It was done for $3500. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZM2G-PfEbc" target="_blank">Short video, but there are more about Dee Williams.</a> She says at one point that it is all a trade off. And it is. If you hate feeling confined, there is a big world out there to explore and people to meet. For people who are concerned about the earth, this is as green as it gets. It is not a new concept, this is how people lived who came to new lands and staked their claims. Larger houses is relatively new. More possessions, too. Always something bigger or better...but, is it?<br />
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I hope I have helped open your thoughts to another way of life, a life much like our people before us lived. A life where you do not have to worry about how you will afford to feed your family, putting a nest egg aside or who will accept your dog and where. Life is full of options, and the best choices we can make is sustaining our health and families. Is this for everyone? Maybe not the prefabs, but, figure who needs to be there, and what you truly need in a home. You can find the perfect affordable home to keep you together. Or, you can find an address for your business...or even a little place to rescue. The options are as endless as your imagination and needs. Transforming an old Airstream or camper can certainly help you live better over the tough times. Who knows, you may like it enough to design and build your own tiny home. One thing that is certain, beyond any doubt...you will be able to keep your dog. Or cat.<br />
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While you think this over, I will be preparing my post on the V Dogs still looking for homes. Take a look over the internet, see what is out there, explore your options. A key to a new door is opened. I want all of the V Dog friends happy and healthy...and enjoying their families... at home. <br />
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Warmest regards, always...<br />
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-Nikhi<br />
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For a look at what BSL means and who is affected globally, please check out the Wikipedia page. Will give you a better idea.</b></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breed-specific_legislation">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breed-specific_legislation</a>Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-68956960628084809212012-01-02T20:19:00.002-04:002012-01-07T20:17:56.827-04:00The Lost Dogs: Why You Need to Read it.<b><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">On the face of it, <a href="http://www.thelostdogsbook.com/" target="_blank">The Lost Dogs</a> is a book about the Vick dogs and their road to recovery. But, if you look a little deeper, it is also a tale of every single animal that is meant for a home, a farm or brought into family oriented surroundings. Is it an easy read? No. Is it something you should read? Yes.<br />
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My first blog was the<i> how </i>I came to take time from my day to spread the word on these very amazing dogs, and the people who love them. I wanted so desperately to be able to read The Lost Dogs, because I knew it would help me sharing their amazing journey. It took me so long to gather up the strength to face what I knew to be one hell of a hard tale to read. I will admit, I had to "psyche myself out" for it. Knowing the day I set aside to start, I thought of a new approach to the book, read it as I would any of the countless textbooks I have read. I settled on reading it through a student's eyes. In doing so, I do believe that made it easier to face what I knew would be coming up. But, it did not prepare me for everything.<br />
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Even as an avid follower of human behaviours and psychology, I have faced reading horrors upon horrors on atrocities man makes on man. I know what man can do. Still, I always find it most unsettling to read about children and animals. In my mind, this is the most disturbed of all crimes, for they are truly the ones who are defenseless. And, if they try, well, no one is likely to listen to children (what do they know?) and an animal can end up meeting its maker. I knew to expect what came of the little red dog. How could I not? It is the most popular passage taken from the book. Still, it was difficult. Such sadistic cruelty. But, it happened and it is in there. As the whole book is written intertwining different stories, the lead up was difficult. Like the Bogeyman, you never know when he will pop up, but you know he will. True to form, you are affected.<br />
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I was not prepared for the behind the scenes story of how it all went down, and the continued fight for the dogs. You do get to meet some of the key players, hear their own words. I think I was completely dumbfounded at the amount of legal red tape it took to see the raid, and subsequent charges happen. I laughed at little Jonny Justice, and his dad. I felt a certain kinship with Jasmine's mother, Catalina, and how she went about securing trust and love. I had the biggest smile throughout Leo and Marthina's story. Even a chuckle or two. I marveled at abilities and ideas to save the V Dogs. My heart broke at how they were treated initially (in the shelters). I think this could very well be the root of many issues still faced today. I was fine-ish until I got to the "Where are they now?" Maybe it was my way of unleashing all I had digested. This story is told with power, and respect, so it would stand to reason that one would be affected.<br />
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The thing that I was least prepared for, was that this is not just a story about the V Dogs. It is also a story about people. Compassionate and dedicated people who gave up so much of life and themselves to ensure the safety of these beautiful dogs. But, it is not just about saving the V Dogs...it is also about saving every other dog who comes after them, from similar backgrounds and breed. It is about making a valid case FOR dogs. And cats. And rabbits and horses and any other animal who needs someone to fight for them. My eyes opened, in ways I never expected. <br />
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In finally reading The Lost Dogs, I have developed a deeper understanding of what reputable rescue and advocation means. I have a deeper understanding of not only the short comings, but also the strength of law enforcement. I have a deeper respect for people who are willing to put themselves out there for animal, and man. I also have a deeper respect for all animals, and what they can teach us.<br />
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If I have given anything away (spoilers) to anyone who has not read it, I do so with the best intentions. If we were not all so moved by what is going on with our animal friends, we would not be here. I know we are not all the same, and we are affected differently, but, it is time for our own concerns about how we will be affected and how many tears will be shed, and take the time to read The Lost Dogs.<br />
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As I sat cuddling my little Alfie, I thought about who should read this. While the obvious comes to mind for each of us, I also thought about the people who no longer feel the need or want of that pet they once loved. Shelter life is no life. I thought about all the people who have the best intentions, with rescue, and miss the mark. I thought of the people who speak up on behalf of Pit Bulls, and become more fearful than anything the media can put out there. I also thought of law enforcement and anyone who works in shelters. This book is powerful, and it has the ability to open the most narrow of thoughts. The list is longer, but, I think my point is made.<br />
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The V Dogs have great power to continue to open doors, with the continued help of people who respect and love them. Simply, they would have no story to tell if not for the people who respect and came to love them.<br />
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Find your strength and sit down and read. I promise, you will be better for it. If I can put it in a slightly callous way...we are only reading an account of this part of the journey, most of us have not had to sit through endless days and hours not knowing what was going on. With the dogs, the case or ourselves. Certainly doesn't mean we will not feel for all the people and the dogs.<br />
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Be inspired, V Dog friends.<br />
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-Nikhi</span><br />
</b>Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5601206544698258128.post-42586934636585028942012-01-01T20:55:00.002-04:002012-01-07T20:19:00.418-04:00Welcome to the blog!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QqKiU0giq6Q/TwD_afFvHhI/AAAAAAAAADs/uS2xeGGseBw/s1600/Jhumpacollar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QqKiU0giq6Q/TwD_afFvHhI/AAAAAAAAADs/uS2xeGGseBw/s1600/Jhumpacollar.jpg" /></a><b><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Welcome to the first blog post! I am a little nervous, venturing out into the world of blogging. It is a new experience, and one always worries about reception. Especially when it is blogging with a mission. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This blog is an off shoot from the page with the same name on<i> </i><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Vicktory-Dogs-The-Little-Engines-That-Will/223339444358574" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, that I started after a failed, but amazing attempt to have the dogs appear on Oprah. Oprah in the name just wasn't cutting it. That page was an off shoot of a petition in the form of a Facebook event to have the dogs appear while MV was to appear. Going forward, again, this final page and blog will be the route to awareness, understanding and acceptance. All through the dogs who set some new rules. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I was asked recently: "So, when/why did you first get involved (mentally, physically, emotionally) with the V Dogs?" So how does one Crazy Cat Lady from Canada become a voice for a collective group of dogs? Unlike many, I did not follow from the beginning, I came into it in 2010, when the <a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/magazine/12/22/vick.dogs/" target="_blank">Sports Illustrated article</a> made its way to me via the foster woman I had just adopted a cat from. That takes care of the mental and emotional part of it. That was it, I was on my way to soaking up every bit of knowledge I could get on these dogs. See, I was just relearning what it meant to have a dog, first one to grace my home in 20 years. (Crazy Cat Lady, remember.) I have always been an animal lover. Always. I brought home tears and pleas to adopt or rescue, beginning at a very young age. I am still the big city girl who marvels and (maybe) gets a little too excited over meeting farm animals. But, my choice, as an adult, was the marvel that is cats. So, enter my little Bichon Frise (Alfie), and the story of the V Dogs burst into my mind and heart. I knew, from watching Alfie try to overcome a life of neglect how difficult it must have been for anyone to face helping over 40 dogs. I had never heard of so many dogs needing help at one time. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">While working to soak up any and all information I could get, scrounging for any an all details, I came across <a href="http://vickdogsblog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Vick Dog Blog</a>. I sat here with my daughter, and we laughed, until tears came, at little Uba. His story was so different and so heartwarming. I felt good about moving forward and seeking out more of the dogs. I found <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HectorThePitBull" target="_blank">Hector</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vicktory-4-Cherry/229640882187" target="_blank">Cherry</a> on Facebook, and continued until I was satisfied I had found all I could. I just marveled at them and their people. Then I found <a href="http://badrap-blog.blogspot.com/2010/09/dissed-by-talk-show-diva-big-o.html" target="_blank">a blog on BAD RAP's</a> site that blew me away. It made me so angry. Why would anyone cancel on these amazing therapy dogs, Hector and Jonny Justice and all those kids? Moving forward to 2011, and I saw MV was to appear. That was it, I was pretty angry, thinking of Hector and Jonny Justice and all those kids. Specifically, the wee one in her Sunday best. I sent an email to Cherry's parents, asking if it was okay if I acted. I got the permission I sought, and that was the physical part of my involvement.<br />
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At that time, I was afforded the "luxury" of dealing with non-threatening health issues, so I was home, doing the doctor rounds. Every single day, and every single night I was on that petition/event, making sure things were kosher. When I moved to the page, I sought more ways to put the dogs above the man. Learning from the errors and what did not work, I am still mentally, emotionally and as physically involved as I can be. Why would I not? I have learned so much being on this end. What I have received is far greater than anything I set out to do.<br />
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So, there you have it. Except one thing... the purpose. Simply as I can say it, to help these dogs and their people in any way I can. Rethinking, relearning and reaching out. THAT is the essence of inspiration, and these dogs and the people who love them have great power to inspire the world. I do hope you will join us. <br />
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Sending much love and best wishes for 2012. This IS the year of the Vicktory Dog.<br />
- Nikhi</span></b>Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01575785209779309642noreply@blogger.com7