AMERICAN BRITTANY RESCUE NEWSLETTER - OCTOBER 2023 | |
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15TH ANNIVERSARY UPDATE
THE PUTNAM 12 RESCUE
by Rebecca Sweet and Melissa Tapply DiLello
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On Saturday morning, October 25, 2008, a horrific animal hoarding scene began to unfold in rural Putnam County, Illinois, about 100 miles southwest of Chicago. This month marks the 15-year anniversary of that day when 24 dogs, three cats, and six birds without food or water were rescued from a hoarder/breeder. Twelve of those dogs were Brittanys. Volunteers from American Brittany Rescue and other organizations including Illinois Valley Animal Rescue and Greater Chicagoland Cavalier Rescue were at the apparently-abandoned farmhouse that had no electricity or running water. ABR retrieved and transported the Brittanys in individual crates to Fox Valley Veterinary Hospital in Ottawa, Illinois.
At Fox Valley, the Brittanys were bathed to rid them of the filth in which they lived; a culmination of urine, feces, and fleas. The pups were emaciated, dehydrated, and had infections on their feet from living in squalor. Some collars had to be cut off because they were so tight and had begun to embed in the skin. The dogs were given IVs due to their severe dehydration. At Fox Valley a new life started for these Brittanys on October 25, 2008. They would know only love and care from then on, thanks to the efforts of the ABR volunteers.
Below are some updates and wonderful stories from their forever families. We’ve also included YouTube videos of the rescue. One is of the actual rescue that day, showing the conditions at the property, the work of ABR, and the efforts by the hospital staff. Another is of the training that volunteer foster parents had with the dogs prior to starting the placement process. Caution: These are very poignant and troubling to watch at times; keep the tissues handy.
Now, to the post-rescue happier times for these Brittanys...
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Photo: Hershey, Luke, Penny & Jack, one year after rescue at the ABR picnic | |
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Jack celebrated his 17th birthday in May of this year, still wagging his little tail for treats. Shortly after the rescue in 2008 he was adopted, but when the family realized they weren’t the best match for him, they returned him to ABR. He went back to his original foster home with Cheryl Thorp, and she adopted him. Jack crossed the Bridge on October 5, 2023.
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“Penny (formerly Snuggles) was so happy to be with us, fitting in almost immediately with Tommy and Buddy. They were our three Musketeers. Unfortunately, we lost her when she was only 10 from liver cancer, but for about eight years we received so much loving from her!” – The Pignotti family | |
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Photo: Penny (R) enjoying her first outing to the dog park | |
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“We are sad to say that we lost Hershey in 2016. He was a charmer and goofball all rolled into one. Everyone who met him thought he was so sweet and gentle. We were so happy to help him have a good life after he was rescued.” - Mary Kaye and John Lavorato
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“Luke became my first foster fail with ABR. He bonded with me on day one (at the training session) as I was the first human to give him the love he needed and deserved. He was my heart dog as he had the best personality. He was so fun and quirky and always seemed to be in a good mood. He passed away in July of 2020 making it to almost 13 years old. I still miss you Lucas Membrane!” - Julie Thomas | |
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Domino was 13 months old at the time of rescue. He made the transition wonderfully. After six weeks of care and training with his foster mom, Donna Shindlbeck, (and resident Brits Jack and Ruby who helped show him the way) he was ready for adoption. He was such a joy to watch! He loved his squeaky toys and all the belly rubs he could get. One of his favorite things was stealing the washcloth from the shower, even when someone was in it! He would take it down to the laundry room and drop it on the floor.
Domino was adopted by The Treiber Family. They continued his training and he grew into a handsome and confident young boy.
Domino crossed the Bridge in February of this year. His family writes:
“We loved him so much and received so much more from him than we could have possibly given him. Domino had such a great lovable personality with his sheer happiness greeting people, and his overall playfulness. We're very grateful that he joined our family, and feel blessed to have enjoyed our sweet Domino for 14+ wonderful years.”
– Cathy, Rick, Emily and AJ Treiber
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Dante was fostered by Deb Giesler and went on to live the good life as a beloved family member. He even got to go to the Chicago Botanical Garden for a Fido Halloween parade! He was an extra wonderful friend to his human brother who had special needs and adored Dante.
Emmitt took very well to the rescued life. You’d never know the conditions he endured pre-rescue, when you watch this video!
Lucy went on to live the good life with her foster-then-forever family in Wisconsin.
Missy (f/k/a Miss Peke) also found her happy new life in Wisconsin until it was her time to cross the Bridge.
Ringo sadly crossed the Bridge within the first year of his rescue.
Saddle Back/Chance was fostered by Marcialynn Post and found a loving forever home.
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FOSTER TAILS
AU REVOIR, JACK
by Bobbie Pomeroy
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When you foster rescue dogs inevitably there will be one that is hard to let go. There will be that one that you wish with everything inside you that you could keep, but know deep in your heart that you are not the right home for. That one that you quietly hand off to the new owner knowing full well that they are a perfect fit and will give them a second chance at a life full of love, while you sob the whole way home as you look at the empty crate in your vehicle. You wonder if you made the right choice; will they love them like you did; will they keep them safe; will they make sure they don't sneak out the door; will they stay with them when the end comes. Then you wonder if the dog will forget you, because you know you will never forget them.
When you foster a rescue dog you give them your whole heart so they know they are safe, you protect them from the things that scared them, you give them time to trust and to love. When they are ready, you let them go and your heart breaks. If you are lucky their furever family will keep you updated once in a while, grateful for every photo and every update.
Jack is one lucky dog and is going to a great home. We are looking forward to following his journey for many years to come!
Au revoir Jack....
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We're having so much fun celebrating those funny and quirky things our Brittanys do that make us love them extra. More coming next month! Keep us smiling and submit your Quirky Britt photos to: social.networks@americanbrittanyrescue.org | |
Nellie chases squirrels at 9000 feet | |
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Just looking for birds, Mom.
It's what I do!
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Mom, why are you getting rid of these beds? They are perfect! - Chance | |
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I just know it's in here somewhere!
-Hazelnut
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It's not easy being Sammy | |
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PHOTOS OF THE MONTH
BRITTANYS IN AUTUMN
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SHARE YOUR PHOTOS FOR NOVEMBER | |
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HEALTH CORNER
KEEPING FIDO FIT & FABULOUS
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October 11 is Pet Obesity Awareness Day. According to a survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), 59% of dogs in the US are overweight or obese. But keeping our furry friends at a healthy body weight is just as important for them as it is for us. Other health issues are often made worse with obesity, including hypertension, diabetes, and osteoarthritis. Preventing your pet from becoming overweight or obese is much easier than correcting a problem later.
How do I know if my dog is overweight or obese?
The first step is to evaluate your dog’s weight using the body condition score (BCS). Ask your vet to assess your pet’s weight in order to provide an unbiased view. Your vet can also determine the ideal body weight of your pet. This is done based on breed standards, and individual pet size, age, and life stage.
What are the best weight loss programs?
There are many programs to help your dog lose weight, but it is best to have your vet assist in developing a plan tailored to your dog. In the APOP survey mentioned above, respondents said they had the best results with calorie restriction or increased exercise. If you are cutting calories substantially it is preferable to feed a diet meant for weight loss. Nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals will be adjusted in weight loss diets to ensure nutritional needs are met. Prescription diets are another option to help manage your pet’s weight.
Regardless of how you go about it, weight loss should be gradual. Most pets can safely lose 1-3% of their current body weight per month.
What are the best ways to prevent pet obesity? The Petfood Institute provides some great tips:
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Dusty (#10822) - GA - 8 y/o :
Oh sweet Dusty! Formerly a Plantation Dog, Dusty is an active 8-year-old boy from Georgia who still loves to "work," but he's considering semi-retirement now because he's learning the joy of afternoon naps and bellyrubs! To love and be loved—turns out that's his jam. He’s never met a stranger, he walks well on leash, and loves a good car ride. Dusty needs a home without stairs, but other than that, he has few limitations and lots of life to live. He can’t wait to share his best years with you!
Adopt Dusty
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Petey (#10702) - FL – 7 y/o:
This wonderful boy could run all day! He would love a family who gives him lots of exercise, especially in a large fenced area where he has space to run and chase critters. He's the farthest thing from a couch potato! Agility or scent work might be just the thing for his body and mind. Petey has been fostered in a home with a blind female Brittany and though he gets along well with her, he isn't interested in playing. Petey loves to sleep with his person- he even wants his head on your chest. He is a sweet boy who needs lots of exercise to be able to relax with his people at the end of the day.
Adopt Petey
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Pepe (#10921) - GA - 2 y/o:
Pep, pep, peppy Pepe! He’s a high-octane Britt with plenty of pep in his step! He’s also an incredibly affectionate and loving lap dog. Pepe is smart and will do well with continued training to focus his energy and smarts. He gets along well with dogs and previously lived with cats. He loves all people! If you’re looking for a charmer with a striking coat and legs for days, Pepe may be your guy. He is sure to take you places!
Adopt Pepe
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Are you looking to adopt a Brittany but don't see one available in your area? |
We welcome you to complete an adoption application to start the approval process, so you will be ready to adopt when the time comes!
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BRITTANYS THAT HAVE CROSSED THE RAINBOW BRIDGE | |
Bullet, September 21, 2023 | |
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A huge thank you to Harvey’s supporters! His Giving Grid raised $7105, far exceeding our $5500 goal. Harvey is settling in to his foster-to-adopt home, and he will soon have his much-needed knee surgery.
Our ABR Apparel Fundraiser is on! Now through December 31, shop here for hats, shirts, jackets, and more. Adult and youth sizes. There's something for everyone!
Upcoming Fundraisers:
November 5-12: Pampered Chef Party (everything you need for your kitchen!)
November 28: Giving Tuesday (a worldwide day celebrating generosity and giving)
January (dates TBD): Sees Candies (chocolates for your Valentines!)
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COMING SOON
ANNUAL QUILT RAFFLE
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THE ANNUAL QUILT RAFFLE IS COMING SOON!
Tickets will be available online when our new website launches.
Watch for announcements!
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Keep up-to-date on dog food and treat recalls on DogFoodAdvisor.com. You can also sign up to have recall alerts delivered to your inbox! | | | |
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VOLUNTEER WITH US!
Volunteering with ABR can take shape in many ways...
Arrange pick-ups from shelters
Call prospective adopters
Transport Brittanys closer to their foster or forever homes
Foster to help a Brittany learn what it means to be a member of a family
Provide outreach so ABR can help even more Brittanys
Each and every role not only fulfills a need, but fills a heart!
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
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ABOUT AMERICAN BRITTANY RESCUE
American Brittany Rescue, Inc. is an organization that was formed in 1991 as a cooperative effort of Brittany owners, breeders, trainers, and fanciers who ABR believes have a responsibility not only for their own dogs and the dogs they produce, but for the breed as a whole.
THE AMERICAN BRITTANY RESCUE MISSION
ABR's mission is to provide the leadership and expertise via a network of trained volunteers to take in stray, abandoned, surrendered and/or impounded purebred Brittanys, provide them with foster care, health and temperament screening, an opportunity for any necessary rehabilitation and to assure their health and placement into new homes. In order to fulfill this mission, ABR's volunteers remain flexible and adaptable to current and future business environments and they remain dedicated to the organization.
ABR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Terry Mixdorf, President
Michelle Falkinburg, Vice President
Joe Herslip, Secretary
Terrie Johnson, Treasurer
Sandra Oelschlegel, Chair
Deb Grove
Melissa Tapply DiLello
Wendy Boyce
Becca Whitley
AMERICAN BRITTANY RESCUE E-NEWSLETTER TEAM
Brittany Boler
Jeannine Connors
Judie Cutting
Kristin Davis
Rebecca Sweet
Melissa Tapply DiLello
Debra White
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