Hello everyone, I would like to tell you about my sweet dog, Carolina. I found Carolina 4 years ago off Interstate 95 in North Carolina. We were on our way back to New York from my brothers house and stopped at a rest area to use the bathroom. Just as we were leaving this skinny little thing walked in front of our truck. We got out and she came right over to us. She was hungry and visably worn, and her ear was torn as well. To make a long story short we got a new pet that day and Carolina became a New Yorker. She required a lot of medical care uncluding heartworm treatments. But in a few months she was as good as new. Carolina was the sweetest dog in the world. Everyone who met her loved her. All she wanted to do was relax and enjoy the good life. Sadlythough in early September Carolina passed away from Canine Lymphoma. It happened so fast and I still can’t believe she is gone. We only had her for four years but the joy she brought our family will last a life time. We are grateful that we had the opportunity to make the last few years of her life peaceful and happy. After years of being on the streets she got to know the love of being part of a family. Carolina will be in our hearts forever and I like to say that God now has the greatest pet. We love you Carolina.

Doreen from NY

Earlier today, it was tough to know where to turn when we had to face the reality of our injured Odie.

Odie was a rescue we received four years ago from our veterinarian friends. Odie was timid yet filled with vigor. He appeared to have been abused, and was easily frightened, yet would “dance” around the yard when we’d arrive home each day. Odie was very loving and gentle towards our kids, especially if they had a treat for him. He would sit at attention each morning at 7am, waiting for breakfast. Odie loved to pull fresh pears off the tree, and take walks with us in the woods. Often times our two cats would curl up and sleep next to Odie or rub against him. He was so grateful for any gentle human touch, never demanding, but looking up with those dark brown eyes said it all.

Odie was the lone dog on the street for a couple years until Zoe the rottie, moved in next door. He loved to hang out with her.

Last spring, Odie survived a double pit bull attack, as they intruded our yard. We nursed him back, and he took on new character for us, he was a “champ”. To endure that attack and carry on, he fulfilled that character. But Odie was just not the same. He was sluggish, not as alert as before. He seemed to miss that vibe he once had.

When Zoe’s owners called after lunch today, to say Odie was curled up and bleeding in Zoe’s house, we feared it could be bad. Odie apparently was struck by a vehicle, and sustained severe injuries to both hind legs, and other deep wounds on his belly. He could barely support his own weight on his hind legs. Soon we were faced with a painful decision regarding his life. And Odie clearly seemed to sense the inevitable. (more…)

Nothing brings me more joy than when I walk into the local spca, wearing my blue shirt, brown apron and my name tag. I examine the board to see which of my four legged pals need to be walked, groomed, socialized or just loved.
My focus is on level 2 dogs. They may be labeled that for a couple of reasons. But never for agressiveness. Mostly because of the overall size, but often it is for very shy, submissive, fearful dogs.I walk in firmly yet gently, never making a sound. I let the dog have a chance to approach me with what he/she knows best. Scent.
If the dog shys away I will simply sit in the cage and thats all. I give the dog a chance to simply allow me in his area. There are times when no physical contact is made. Just a plan to come back again a little later and do the same. Each dogs life is important to me so I will spend as much time as possible with him or her.
Sometimes they will come right to me and want to go for a walk. And that is beautiful also.

I have come to the conclusion that I benefit more than any of the dogs do. I get such joy and peace from it. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to really get in touch with their inner most feelings as well as inner peace.

Jeff from MD