Friends, if you follow us on Facebook, you are probably aware that CRUSA, like many nonprofits, is dealing with scammers and spammers who pretend to be Cairn owners and prospective adopters and then post comments such as “puppies for sale” “puppies for adoption” or “join XYZ group”. Many of these spammers and scammers pretend that they have dogs available for sale or adoption, post photos of dogs they don’t have (they have even posted photos of our CRUSA dogs) and ask people to send them a deposit for these dogs and then disappear after they have collected the deposit. If you see such postings on our CRUSA Facebook page or in our Facebook group, please tag me (BJ) or Violetta next to the posting, so we can see it and remove it (and ban the person from the page or group).

But, on to more positive communications to all our readers and supporters! We know you will enjoy this end of fall issue, where we have lots of useful tips and great news to share. Remember Sawyer, the young CRUSA foster who made us smile with his antics despite his desire to destroy everything in sight? Luckily, he has found his forever home and a great new life with his 2 adoptive dads, and several canine and feline siblings - a ready made family. Next, we know that some of you have started planning for tax season. Read our tips on how to save on your taxes and help CRUSA at the same time!

Is fall moving into winter too quickly? There is still time to take lots of leashed walks with your dog during these beautiful fall days, but how do you deal with the Cairn who seems to be taking you for a walk instead? Our author shares some advice that may help our readers who find leash training a challenge. And, it may be time to start focusing on some indoor activities now that the weather is starting to turn – read on for some great ideas to help you and your dog beat the “winter blues”.

Next, the date for the Midwest Cairnfest in the Chicagoland area has been decided - May 18th, 2024. If you plan to attend, please contact the organizer whose email is provided in the article that follows. We hope many of you AND your Cairns can join this day to remember! The final results of the CRUSA Annual Benefit Auction are reported next, with kudos to all who participated! Following, we tell you about the upcoming Rainbow Edition. If you lost a Cairn in 2023 and wish to pay tribute, please submit your tributes by January 10, 2024 to enews@CairnRescueUSA.com. Then we share pictures of some of the Cairns who are family members of our newsletter team. Even though Halloween has passed, they have dressed up in Halloween gear just to make you smile. No treats required!!

Our list of dogs who are being fostered for CRUSA as well as those who have been adopted since our September edition finalizes this November issue. Enjoy every fall day with your human and fur families, and if you have some ideas for future issues, email us HERE! We can't wait to hear from you.



Thank you to all our incredible volunteers and supporters. As our Thanksgiving holiday draws near, we wanted to let you know how grateful we are for each one of you.

Brenda Jo Isaacs (BJ)

President, Cairn Rescue USA

For Chap (formerly Sawyer), it’s abundantly clear that sometimes fate aligns perfectly to bring the right dog into the right family. The bond that has formed between Chap and his family (both human and animal) is a testament to the harmony that exists when a rescue dog finds his perfect furever home.

From the moment Chap entered the family’s life, it was evident that this spirited young terrier, not yet two years old, was meant to be part of their family. His arrival, though marked by a tearful wailing goodbye to his foster mom, BJ, quickly transitioned into a heartwarming tale of love, acceptance, and belonging.

Chap arrived with a long list of do’s and don’ts, which his new adoptive humans, John and Michael, promptly ignored. If they hadn’t worked for him in previous settings, perhaps it was time for something new. The family’s approach has been marked by patience, consistency, love, and most importantly - - - PEANUT BUTTER CRACKERS!

Chap needed a guide to help him transition into the life of a beloved companion. His guide is George. George’s own journey began in the most unlikely of places, a trash can. He was discovered amidst the refuse, emerging with trust issues. George’s turning point came when three little kittens entered the picture, each in need of a motherly figure to care for them. Despite his own struggles, George stepped into the role of “mom”, offering love and a sense of security to these kittens, and getting it back in return. Enter Chap, in need of a guide and a best friend. Perhaps George sensed that Chap needed him as much as the kittens had, and the two are now BFFs.

Chap is still a work in progress. Destruction is his love language. Furniture, toys, and a former dog’s blanket have all been his victims. Giving him an alternative thing to chew on, perhaps a peanut butter cracker, has helped. Despite a long list of purported issues and quirks, his humans report he’s the least quirky dog ever. He still doesn’t want to be touched in all areas and doesn’t always want to be picked up. He’ll let you know his dissatisfaction with a good old side-eye glance.

During the day, the living room and yard transform into the family compound and hangout place. Chap can be found amidst the company of his five dog and six cat siblings, as well as his humans. These places are a bustling hub of activity, where the entire pet family (and some neighborhood strays and squirrels) share cherished moments. (The "porch" picture below shows Chap standing on the porch surrounded by his five canine siblings - one is behind the planter! George is the brindle Cairn to Chap's left).

As the sun sets and day transforms to night, Chap often retreats to one of his other favorite spots – the humans’ bed – where he finds rest, tranquility, and a sense of safety. It’s a place where he can dream of adventures and wake up ready for the next day.

If you are age 73 or older, IRS rules mandate that you take required minimum distributions (RMDs) each year from your tax deferred retirement accounts. Normally, such sums are considered ordinary income and are included in your taxable income. But by making a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) to CRUSA, you can not only avoid paying tax on the distribution, you also won't have to worry about being pushed into a higher tax bracket, or other negative consequences such as paying more taxes on your social security benefits or being subject to higher Medicare costs or its surcharge.

While all the details of this strategy are beyond the space limitations of this article, the basic features of the QCD are as follows:

   

1. The account must be one where the assets are tax deferred such as traditional and inherited IRAs. This doesn't work with Roth IRAs, and if you itemize you can't also use the QCD as a deduction.
2. The funds must be paid (probably by check payable to CRUSA) by your IRA custodian to CRUSA. If the money is paid to you and you then send it to CRUSA, it doesn't qualify.
3. A QCD can count toward satisfying all or part of your RMD (up to $100,000) for the year.
4. You must be at least 70 1/2 years old at the time of your request to your custodian and the funds must be paid to CRUSA by your RMD deadline, which is usually the end of the year. Thus, you need not wait until your distribution at age 73 becomes mandatory in order to receive the benefits of a QCD.
5. You should receive an acknowledgement of the donation by CRUSA with a statement that no benefit was given to you in exchange for the donation.
6. The QCD will be reported by your custodian as a normal distribution and must be included as income on your tax return. However, the preparer should assign "0" tax to it and indicate "QCD".

Your custodian probably has a form for QCDs and it may require CRUSA's EIN Number. That number is 06-1660788 (and remember that CRUSA's official name is Cairn Rescue USA, not CRUSA). Checks sent from your custodian to CRUSA should be mailed to "Cairn Rescue USA, c/o CFO, 24 Landing Lane, West Windsor, N.J. 08550." If your custodian needs an account number to direct deposit the QCD, you can obtain that information by emailing CRUSA at CairnRescueUSA@gmail.com. Also, please contact us at that email address to let us know that you have made a QCD to CRUSA since some custodians will simply issue and mail the check without indicating who it is from.

(Pictured above is Nikki Royle - always ready to help!)

Fall & winter bring chilly temperatures, icy sidewalks, and snow-covered landscapes, making outdoor activities for your furry friend a bit challenging. However, just because it's cold outside doesn't mean your dog has to miss out on all the fun. There are plenty of engaging indoor activities to keep your canine companion entertained and mentally stimulated during the winter months. Let’s explore some ways to ensure your pup has a blast indoors.

1. Indoor Fetch:

Indoor fetch can be a great way to exercise your dog without braving the cold weather. Use a soft toy or ball designed for indoor use to avoid damaging your home. Make sure to clear any fragile items out of the way and provide ample room for your dog to run. Pictured is Duffy McCracken who was always ready to play ball with you indoors or out! RIP sweet Duffy.

2. Hide and Seek:

Dogs love to use their noses, and hide and seek is a wonderful way to tap into their natural scent-tracking abilities. Have a family member or friend hold your dog while you hide somewhere in the house. Call your dog's name and encourage them to find you. When they do, celebrate with treats and lots of praise.

3. Obedience Training:

Winter is an excellent time to work on obedience training with your dog. Spend some quality time teaching new tricks or reinforcing existing commands. Mental stimulation through training can tire your dog out just as much as physical exercise. Plus, it strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.

4. DIY Agility Course:

Set up an indoor agility course using household items like chairs, broomsticks, and cushions. Create tunnels, jumps, and weave poles for your dog to navigate. Not only will this keep your pup physically active, but it's also a fun way to challenge their agility and coordination.

5. Indoor Dog Playdates:

If you have friends or family with dogs, arrange indoor playdates to keep your dog socially engaged. Make sure the play area is dog-proofed, and supervise the dogs' interactions to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for all.

6. Spa Day:

Treat your dog to a spa day! Give them a warm bath, a gentle brush, and maybe even a soothing massage. Use dog-friendly grooming products and take your time to pamper your pup. Not only will this make your dog feel loved, but it's also a great way to bond.

7. Doggie Puzzles and Treat Dispensers:

Consider investing in dog puzzles and treat dispensers designed to mentally stimulate your pet. These toys challenge your dog to figure out how to access hidden treats or toys, keeping them engaged and entertained.

The date for this long awaited event has been decided! Thanks to all who responded to the choice of dates which were published in the previous issue of CFC and on Facebook. Saturday, MAY 18th, 2024 is it!! It will begin about 11 a.m. (CT) and end between 3 and 4 p.m. Please contact Kimberlee Herold HERE if you plan to attend, and she will provide her address and more details. Thank you Kimberlee!

All are welcome, dogs AND people!

(Pictured are attendees at a past Cairnfest where the Cairns are eagerly awaiting a handout!)

IT'S A WRAP!!



Thank you to our auction administrator, Perla Chiaffitella, and to all who participated in the 2023 CRUSA Annual Benefit Auction. We are grateful to each of you whose donations and bids will help make life better for our new CRUSA intakes.

Invoices have been sent out via Facebook Messenger, so be on the lookout! Contact Perla via Facebook Messenger if you have not received your invoice. Check the CRUSA auction page for more information HERE.

What a great event, and all for the Cairns of Cairn Rescue USA!

HONORING YOUR CAIRN WHO WENT TO THE RAINBOW BRIDGE IN 2023.

CRUSA started the Rainbow Edition of Carin' for Cairns in 2013 to remember our Cairns who went to the Bridge during the previous year. This will be our TWELFTH Rainbow Edition, to be published by February 14, 2024.

If you have lost your Cairn in 2023, please email your story (250 words or less) and 1-2 high resolution pictures (or a short video) by January 10, 2024 to enews@CairnRescueUSA.com.

Please include in your tribute:

1. Your name and where you live (city and state)
2. Your Cairn's name
3. Birth and death years (when known, or estimate)
4. How and when your dog came into your life
5. What your best friend added to your life and what you will always remember (Note the Cairn does not need to be a CRUSA dog)
6. Picture or short video (high resolution pictures, no collages or montages, no text overlaid on pictures, and videos should be approximately 1 minute or less)
7. If you are unable to write a paragraph, just send us the birth and death years, city and state, and a picture. 

Our deepest condolences to you in your loss the loss of your best friend.

QUICK LINKS:

WEBSITE

DONATE HERE

FACEBOOK AUCTION GROUP

FACEBOOK PAGE

FACEBOOK GROUP PAGE

ADOPTION APPLICATION

FOSTER APPLICATION

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION

SHOP FOR CAIRNS

EVENTS AND DATES TO REMEMBER:

• Year End Donations - Donate by December 31 to make your donations count for 2023 taxes
• Midwest Cairnfest 2024 - Saturday May 18, 2024 in the Chicago area: Please email HERE if you are coming to the event

WRITERS AND CONTRIBUTORS to this issue:

Lisa Bernstein, Perla Chiaffitella, Delonna Darsow, Janet Rosen Eaton, Judy Greig, Michael Horton, John McCaffrey, Bob Shire, Donna Smith, Vi Argueta, Shell Lewis, BJ Isaacs, Linda Savage

Marilyn Royle, Editor in Chief

Are you a creative or journalistic writer? Join our editing staff! Email us at eNews@CairnRescueUSA.com.

Cairn Rescue USA is a national 501(c)(3) Dog Rescue for Cairn Terriers and "mostly Cairn" mixes of all ages and backgrounds. Visit www.CairnRescueUSA.com and our Facebook Page for more information.

Contact Us:

General Rescue Inquiries info@CairnRescueUSA.com 

Newsletter Inquiries or Sign Up to Receive the Newsletter: eNews@CairnRescueUSA.com