Happy Tails

Pinkachu (now called Peggy Sue)

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 16:24:00 GMT

Pinkachu is now named “Peggy Sue” a name that she is happy about since her tail wags furiously when I say it. She has captured our hearts and she gets more confident everyday. She is still timid with my husband but is letting him pat her if she is on my lap.
When she first arrived at our house she immediately went under a bed and stayed there for 14 hours. I coaxed her out, eventually, with treats, and after a couple of more days she became my best friend. She follows me everywhere, wagging her tail and smiling. She no longer runs under the bed when a loud noise occurs and she now stays with us in whatever room we are in.
She is extremely smart and I taught her to sit, lay down, shake-a-paw, fetch a ball and roll over in just a few short sessions. She wants so much to please and therefore responds to lots of positive reinforcement.
She is good friends with Sadie, our Pug, and they go out in the yard together and chase squirrels or cats or just roam around. She only had a couple of “accidents” in the house on her first day or so, but she went out each time Sadie went out and she has been totally housebroken since then.
She was “in care” or without a home for so long, she really suffered from lack of socialization and did not know how to play with toys and I don’t think she ever walked on a leash either. The first time I tried to take her for a walk she just sat on the sidewalk and refused to budge. I tried again and the same thing happened. After a few more days passed, I decided I would carry her around the block with her leash on so she could get used to the sounds outside that scared her such as traffic, or dogs barking. I took Sadie walking with us too, of course, and when Sadie would stop and sniff something I would put Peggy Sue on the ground and encourage her to sniff as well, She still wouldn’t walk on her own so I would pick her up and repeat the process of putting her on the ground if Sadie found a sniffing spot that seemed interesting, encouraging Peggy Sue to walk, and carrying her a little further. After about 15 minutes of this she decided to walk on her own and follow Sadie. She used to run away from me if she thought I wanted to walk her. Now she sits nicely for me to put her harness and leash on and she can’t wait to get out of the door. She walks perfectly, prancing and never pulling on the leash. She is still skittish if she sees another human or a dog on the walk but the change in her is truly amazing.
I cannot imagine such a beautiful dog being abandoned (or worse). She has brought us great joy and even Sadie is happier. I know Peggy Sue is happy.

Regards, Annie

Duncan( now called Paddywack)

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 22:15:00 GMT

Next month it will be two years since Duncan (now named Paddywack) came to his new home with Buster, my older mini dachshund, four cats and me. Nine months ago we were joined by Wally, a standard dachs, who is now eighteen months old.

Paddy is now quite confident, loves his home and his brothers, knows the exact time line we follow and only becomes anxious if anyone else takes the dogs for a walk.

I think that being in a very quiet, calm house, with no raised voices, no changes in routine and lots of love and music has helped Paddy to come a very long way. He is a happy boy, enjoys going for drives but is not too keep on walks, and his favourite time of days is bedtime. As soon as he sees me turn off the kitchen lights he goes flying upstairs and makes it to the bed. He can jump on it and doesn’t have to use the steps, as the dachshunds do, and I am pretty certain he laughs at them! He is a very quiet little boy, and the only time he barks is if it starts to know. All three boys received specially tailormade winter coats for Christmas, which they refuse to wear, and since they hate the snow so much we get a lot of our winter exercise walking up and down the stairs. Paddy is not a great one for toys but he loves to wrestle with Wally. They play tag – Wally runs up behind Pad, taps him on the tail and runs, Pad in hot pursuit. Next time they reverse the game.I’m so glad Pad came to us, he is dearly loved. Thank you so much for bringing us together. I am attaching a picture. Paddywack is on the left, Buster in the middle and baby Wally on the right.

Bridget.

Laci

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 22:11:00 GMT

I'd love to give you an update on Laci. We've had her now for just over 2 months and she is an absolute jem. She was so timid and nervous when we first got her but she has gotten much braver and is super curious about everything. She hasn't learned all her commands just yet but she knows "Stay", "Come", "Leave it" and "No" quite well. She loves to go on playdates with all her new little dog friends and she even loves to romp at the farm with the big collies and sheltie at my father's ranch. She wasn't quite sure what to make of the horses but she decided they were great to bark at. She loves to run and play but I think her favorite thing is to cuddle with my husband and I on the couch. Laci and Kyle have become fast friends. At first Laci was very scared of him and other men in general but because of her growing bond with Kyle she's adjusting much more quickly to the other men in our lives. I don't know how we got along without her, she has so rapidly become such an important part of our family.

Ringo

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 21:55:00 GMT

We adopted Ringo just six weeks ago – and couldn’t be happier with him. An awesome little guy with so much fun loving energy, he is a perfect addition to the family. Ringo enjoys playing with everyone, walking in the dog park, and despite his Texas roots – loves digging his feet and snout into the snow! A quick learner and easy to train he is great on and off leash, sits, and even shakes a paw. Most of all Ringo loves people and other dogs. There is rarely a day or evening where he isn’t saying hello to his dog friends in the neighborhood or snuggling up on my lap for a rest. Smart and quick on his feet, Ringo is always up for a treat, and even finds his own treasures when we’re wandering around, from muddy toast to that mystery chicken bone. A happy little guy, pulling a discarded snack from his mouth here and there is the least we can do for all the love he brings. After all he’s our little Ringo, and I couldn’t have asked for a better dog.

Fancy (now called Chai)

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 21:36:00 GMT

When I adopted Fancy the foster family said she answers to Chai, so that became her name in her new household. She settled in right away and clearly had been house trained and she could obey some commands. She shows few signs of trauma. She likes attention and being taken on walks, and is quite affectionate. The most fun was teaching her about snow. At first she was afraid to walk in snow, but then she found out how much fun it is to dig. As you can see, she grew a winter coat of fur and will go outside regardless of the weather. She is active, healthy and full of energy. She has made friends with the neighbor's dog. I still always walk her on leash and continue to train her.

Cassie (now called Lulu)

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 21:28:00 GMT

Cassie, (now named Lulu) is a true blessing in our lives. When I first saw Lulu's picture on the Little Mutts website I knew I had to meet her and once I met her, I knew I had to have her in our lives. Lulu was found on the streets with a severely damaged leg, which eventually had to be amputated. My heart ached with what she must have gone thru. She has amazed us with how quickly she has adapted to her handicap. This little girl can run! She is such a sweet gentle soul, full of love and everyone that meets her falls in love with her. She has made herself so popular in the neighbourhood, she rushes up to people, knowing that she is so cute, everyone will adore her and they do! I can't imagine why anyone would abondon her, but their loss in our gain. We went into this adoption with open eyes; we assumed that because of Lulu's history there would be some behavioural issues but from the moment she came into our home, she went out of her way to show us that she was willing to give us a chance to show her how much we could love her. I hope that people that look at the rescue dogs on your website will read our story and be encouraged to consider adopting. I can't tell you how wonderful this whole experience has been. I have enclosed a couple of pictures of Lulu in her beds. It is easy to spoil our little girl. God bless you for the wonderful work you do!

Paul and Elkin

Ollie

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 04:40:00 GMT

Our little Ollie!

We were told he came, with his brother Stanley from California but really no other background was available. His wonderful foster mom told us he didn't really play with other dogs or toys and preferred to sleep alone. That was November 11th, 2010!

Ollie's been through a couple Canadian winters now but there still is a little California surfer dude inside, he really does not like the cold snow, even with booties and jacket. In the beginning he used to spend most of his time in his kennel, came out rarely and timidly to sit on the floor at our feet and then disappear again. He would avoid our attention and the attention of our other little dog, never initiated play with any of us and preferred to spend the whole night in his kennel (door open) or hiding under my daughters bed. It took us almost a year but Ollie now initiates play with all of us and plays on his own with toys! He is excellent off leash, loves camping, going for walks, doesn't even mind when I clean around his big beautiful amber colored eyes! He loves to snuggle up beside us on the couch, preferably on my lap, he sleeps on my daughters bed snuggled right up against her and even though he gets the "grouchies" sometimes when he is sleeping, he is a very loving boy who just took a while to trust again. Who knows what his life was like before he was rescued by Little Mutts but we sure are glad that he was. There are so many positives about this little fella I could go on and on but I shouldn't brag!!!

He is a kissy boy!!!!!!!

He has had a few hair cuts here and there but regardless of his hair-do he is still our special OLLIE!!!

I'm always checking back on your site and tell everyone looking for that special furry friend to check you out!!

All our best to you!!!

Cassandra, Curtis, Paynter - the humans

Ollie, Lucy, Lola and ZoeBelle - the furry gang

Eddie

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 04:35:00 GMT

Back in September, the decision was made to adopt a small dog into our family. A friend of mine had adopted a dog from Little Mutts about a year ago so I decided to try there first. I couldn’t believe that there were so many choices – how could all these adorable dogs have been in need of rescue in the first place? After a bit of searching I managed to set my sights on Eddie who was 2 years old and had been rescued from California. From the second I saw him looking out the screen door of his foster home, I knew he was meant to be mine. He is probably a cross between a Jack Russell and a Chihuahua and is the sweetest, most lovable little dog you can imagine. In the past 3 months he has stolen more hearts than just mine! When I take him somewhere to visit I have a hard time leaving with him because everyone always wants to keep him! All of the small children he has met love to carry him around and play and he goes along with anything they dream up. There is a small issue with his curiosity (hate?) of cats. Considering some of them are bigger than he is I’m not sure what the result would be if he ever did catch up to one of them.

We really didn’t have any big problems with him from the day he came home. He wasn’t much for playing with his brand new toys at first but now he runs and retrieves each toy with a little pounce, shakes the heck out of them and oddly enough stores them all under the dining room table! It is hilarious to see him carrying these things around hoping someone will throw them for him. Starting from the very first night he sleeps on the bed the whole night through and doesn’t seem to move a muscle. He is very cuddly and his favourite thing is to be carried around. His little head bobs up and down as he watches everything over my shoulder. He is not a huge fan of the snow and cold – I usually have to shove his little bum out the door to get him to go out. He now has not one but two winter coats and some boots for his tiny feet that seem to get very cold very quickly.

I would have to say that he is absolutely perfect and is loved to pieces by his new forever family. I’m sure if he could talk he would tell you that he is very happy here and is enjoying being cuddled and spoiled. Thank you Little Mutts for allowing Eddie to find his way home.

Teri

Tama

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 04:27:00 GMT

Here is a picture of Tama and Elmer (our other rescue) at a rugby game this summer. Tama has been a wonderful addition to our family. She fit in immediately. Our other dog Elmer wasn’t too sure of her at first as she is so friendly and playful. However she has taught Elmer to play which he would never do before. They have a wonderful time playing now and we can’t imagine not having her. Elmer was very timid when we got him and with Tama around he has learned to go up to people and get a cuddle. Thank you Little Mutts!

Ernest ( now called Ernie)

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 04:25:00 GMT

Hi Dena,

Ernest (Ernie) is absolutely amazing, and we are SO blessed to have him in our lives. He is such a sweet and easy going boy who loves his snuggles and his toys!! We couldn't imagine living without him. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to give him a home. He rescued us though in all honesty!!!

Thank you,

Melissa

Jake

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 04:19:00 GMT

We adopted Jack in September, and he has made a great addition to our family. At first he was shy and a bit fearful of strangers and new dogs, and stuck to us like glue. He started to open up after some dog training sessions and some socialization at the show jumping stable where we ride. He is great around the horses, and has a new best friend, a miniature Dachshund named Scarlet. He even hangs out with several Bernese Mountain Dogs too.

Jack has transformed in a few months. He went to his first horse show at Spruce Meadows, and loved it. He was a natural in his agility class at the Cochrane Humane Society--the chute is his favourite!

Jack loves going jogging, and trips to the off leash area. He learns quickly and loves to play touch and target games. He is playful and full of energy, and also enjoys cuddling and giving kisses. He likes to sleep under the blankets. He hardly ever barks, and just sits by the door when he needs to go out.

This little Chihuahua has been the perfect addition to our family. He brightens everyday with his enthusiasm. We celebrated his first birthday on November 30th, and we look forward to many more years to come.

Tonia

Taf (now called Jake)

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 04:01:00 GMT

Jake is doing really well, he fits perfectly with our family. We have 3 kids and now Jake! He is a sweet, fun loving little boy, and I am so glad he came to our family. We recently lost our dog Chester after 14 years, and Jake has filled our hearts again with puppy love! I give a big thank you to his foster mom Jennifer, who lovingly took him in and helped him become the great little dog he is today!

Thanks again,
Nicole and family

Twinkle

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 03:54:00 GMT

Twinkle is doing well, she loves to be outside where she prances and hops and invites the cat to play. She is a great walker and doesn't mind the snow although she shivers in the cold. Fortunately her exercise needs are small. She still gets scared of unexpected noises and will hide but she comes out when she feels more comfortable. She is a wonderful companion and warm snuggler at night on our bed.

Thanks so much,
Angie

Snookie

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:52:00 GMT

I just wanted to update you on Snookie. Snookie joined our family in September and welcomed us with open paws. She is a loving, gentle dog with the heart of a puppy. She is great with kids (we have a 4 and 7 year old) and she loves to play with them. She also is a great lap dog in the evening. She doesn't bite and rarely barks -- can't get more perfect than that! We have a dog park next door to our home where we take her lots. She always gets lots of compliments on her unique look and friendly temperament. I am surprised she was a "rescue" dog -- how could anyone give up such a sweet dog!
We don't know why anyone would go "shopping" for the perfect dog when there are dogs like Snookie out there waiting to be adopted. She quite often gets compliments and people ask us what breed she is. I like the fact that we don't really know decisively; and she will always be one of a kind to us.
I have attached some pictures so that you can see how she has become one of our family.
One picture of her going for a walk with our son shows Snookie when she first arrived, she has filled out since that picture. There is another picture of her with our youngest son when he was home sick one day, Snookie stayed by his side all day. After meeting Snookie, friends of ours said it was like we won the dog lottery -- and that's how we feel. Snookie has definitely found her forever home with us.
The McKay Family

Cort

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:38:00 GMT

It has been a whole year now since we adopted our newest baby, Cort. He has turned out to be a great dog. A few growing pains along the way but much, much better. He is learning more each day. (but still barks) He now knows our routine and no longer gets out of bed in the morning when I leave for work. He makes the rounds on each of the beds to ensure he owns it all. I have a friend who adopted a dog about the same time. We share dog sitting and dog walking so the dogs are very rarely at home alone. He is truly part of the family and goes everywhere with us. He would go to school with us in the morning when I drove the kids. Now the kids have a school bus so Cort and I ride the school bus in the morning to do the loop around the neighbour hood then get let off to continue our morning walk to the field and park. He is the school bus greeter and the kids love it.

Cort's life is very busy. In the summer we were at the beach everyday. Cort loves to swim and his long fur can hold a lot of sand to bring home to my floors. He walks, runs, swims, rides in cars, fetches sticks and balls and barks. He also loves to camp and float down the river on a hot afternoon. We were in Alberta this summer in our motor home. Stayed on a farm just outside of Calgary. There he met a grump girl dog, who he became friends with, horses, chickens and a turkey. Had to pen the chickens as he loved to chase them and finally we penned the turkey as I think Cort finally made "Tom" the Turkey mad and the turkey kept charging him. Had to save the dog. We also camped at "Writing on Stone Provincial Park" and "Waterton Lakes". Cort has also been to many other places. He loves to travel.

We kept the name Cort. We did try and think of a few others but in the end liked that name. He became very attached to me and the kids did have a had time bonding with him. He has now accepted them and that bond is growing more each day.

So as you can see he is a very happy dog.

Thank you for letting us adopt him.

By for now,

Susan