As of May 2014, all our family have been adopted or started their adoption trial. But this diary will remain, I hope you enjoy reading from beginning to end. It's the special journey of one beautiful Mum and her seven babies. xxx Anna
---------------------------------------------------
Sabrina's Story
We begin with a little red dog, lost and frightened. Heavily pregnant.
Sabrina in the pound
|
We were able to find a small piece of her history after rescue.
The story goes that two weeks before, there were three dogs dumped in Busby (NSW Australia) Two were were captured and Sabrina stayed on the run. These first two were an adult male (lower left) and an older puppy (lower right). They are both thought to be related to her. The adult was rescued by Doggie Rescue, the puppy was adopted from the pound. So both are safe and alive. Then finally, when Sabrina was caught, her family was no longer in the pound. She was all alone. She didn't know it but her new life was about to start. Please follow her story, this will be Sabrina's last ever litter, she will never be running scared again, she will only know love. And she can finally be the one fussed upon and adored. Anna@SSR |
Sabrina's family in the pound
Rescued by Monika's Doggie Rescue
|
Adopted from the pound
|
Arrival at SSR : 1st October 2013
Settling in....
And now we're just waiting, getting comfy and clean. Lots of good healthy food. Lots of relaxation. No stress!
|
|
9th October: Puppies arrive!
A litter of seven, Mum is doing fine and knows exactly what she is doing.
11th October: cuteness
What can I say? Who doesn't love that puppy smell, the little squeaks and the way they bundle together. Happy just to be warm and fed. Snuggled up to Mum and growing every minute.
|
|
|
'Red Runtie' and 'Brown Runtie'
Two little boys are tinier than the rest. We are doing every single thing possible to give them the best shot at healthy survival. Mother nature is going to have to give us a hand with them. But we couldn't have any better help than Sabrina (Binnie).
Weight-wise they are exactly one third the size of their siblings. Red just a little heavier.
For some strange reason I'm reluctant to give them real names right now, call it foster carer superstition.
Anyway the next week or two will be the test. Please wish luck to us all. And give me strength for the 3 hrly checking and rotating them back onto the milk bar. Thank goodness for caffeine and alarm timers.
Weight-wise they are exactly one third the size of their siblings. Red just a little heavier.
For some strange reason I'm reluctant to give them real names right now, call it foster carer superstition.
Anyway the next week or two will be the test. Please wish luck to us all. And give me strength for the 3 hrly checking and rotating them back onto the milk bar. Thank goodness for caffeine and alarm timers.
17th October: growing by the minute
All is well.
Binnie is continuing to be the perfect mother. She is getting a little more confident about leaving the nest and coming out for a cuddle. But she is never out of earshot from the littlies.
Red Runtie and Brown Runtie are thriving, still much smaller but there's no way they can keep up with how fast the rest of the family are growing!
Next Wednesday the litter turn 2wks old and have their very first worming. It shouldn't be too long after that when we'll see their little eyes and ears open up.
Now for the roll-call....
Binnie is continuing to be the perfect mother. She is getting a little more confident about leaving the nest and coming out for a cuddle. But she is never out of earshot from the littlies.
Red Runtie and Brown Runtie are thriving, still much smaller but there's no way they can keep up with how fast the rest of the family are growing!
Next Wednesday the litter turn 2wks old and have their very first worming. It shouldn't be too long after that when we'll see their little eyes and ears open up.
Now for the roll-call....
Puppy#1 Dark brown female
Puppy #4 Brown male
|
Puppy#2 Light brown female
Red Runtie and Brown Runtie males
|
Puppies#3&5 Brown females with white
more updates soon....
|
21st October: a vet check for The Runties
Just to be sure things were on track, we popped The Runties in a cosy basket and went to our vet. They are growing along with their littermates, but still remain at one third the weight of the others! Never catching up.
So the outcome of their very first visit is: normal healthy pups, no cleft palate, no congenital heart defects, no deformities, no crackle or fluid in lungs and good body condition.
Awesome news! But I still hover over them, to make sure they get to feed from Mum without being shoved out of the way by the fatties.
So the outcome of their very first visit is: normal healthy pups, no cleft palate, no congenital heart defects, no deformities, no crackle or fluid in lungs and good body condition.
Awesome news! But I still hover over them, to make sure they get to feed from Mum without being shoved out of the way by the fatties.
24th October: Two weeks old and time for worming.
Well that was fast! All the bubs had their very first worming. I apologise for there being no photos, there was just far too much wiggling and squiggling going on. I also ended up wearing some of the worm syrup.
Mum is realising they are getting older, she sometimes she even gets a nice long sleep without puppies attached.
The most exciting thing (and probably another challenge for Mum Binnie), is that squinty little eyes are starting to open. Tiny ears are beginning to hear, and wobbly little legs are getting stronger and more balanced.
Naming day is coming up.
And photo time is this weekend, please wish me luck. It's going to take some time to get non-blurry pics.
Mum is realising they are getting older, she sometimes she even gets a nice long sleep without puppies attached.
The most exciting thing (and probably another challenge for Mum Binnie), is that squinty little eyes are starting to open. Tiny ears are beginning to hear, and wobbly little legs are getting stronger and more balanced.
Naming day is coming up.
And photo time is this weekend, please wish me luck. It's going to take some time to get non-blurry pics.
28th October: Just a very gorgeous photo.
It's still so hard to get photos unless they're asleep. I'll need to enlist some help for their 3wk photos.
30 October: Puppy lineup! We're 3 weeks old today.
Look at these beautiful faces. Three weeks old today and everyone's eyes are open and focussing. They like a little soft food now (V.A.N. Puppy 76, Divetelact, a tiny bit of B.A.R.F and a meaty bone scored finely with a knife for them to suck on which they love) They have had their first nail trim too. The runties are coming along, Skylar still needs extra help, extra time feeding from Mum and regular check-ins to make sure he hasn't rolled away from the warmth of his litter.
The rest of the guys are getting more coordinated with their walking, they bark (which is so funny to hear) and they have kind of mouthy rolling games with each other. I see little tail wags and I can feel little teeth beginning to cut through.
Putting our heads together we FINALLY came up with some names that suit their personalities. So while you're here, enjoy some more divine little photos of our family.
The rest of the guys are getting more coordinated with their walking, they bark (which is so funny to hear) and they have kind of mouthy rolling games with each other. I see little tail wags and I can feel little teeth beginning to cut through.
Putting our heads together we FINALLY came up with some names that suit their personalities. So while you're here, enjoy some more divine little photos of our family.
Puppy # 1 (female) Harriet
|
Puppy#2 (female) Daffodil
|
Puppy # 3 (female) Twinkle
|
Puppy # 4 (male) Myron
|
Puppy # 5 (female) Sparkle
|
Red Runtie (male) Murphy
|
Brown Runtie (male) Skylar
|
The whole family with their devoted mum Sabrina.
|
6th November: Four weeks old today!
The family had their big adventure in the garden today. We kept it short so as not to stress Binnie but it was lovely.
Here's a few happy-snaps. I didn't want to bug them with taking portraits.
Today is also worming day again.
Here's a few happy-snaps. I didn't want to bug them with taking portraits.
Today is also worming day again.
Skylar and Twinkle touching tiny noses.
|
We had time for a picnic too! Yum.
|
Above: Myron, he's the most placid sweetie
Top right: whispering into Mum's ear Bottom right: Sparkle planning her next move |
|
13th November: 5 weeks today!
Our babies are growing up. In the next few days I'll do a feature on Mum and update how she's going. She's done an amazing job and continues to fuss over her babies like a mother hen even though the are getting stronger and more independent. They still love their Mum though and she gives them all the time they want. Despite the full sets of teeth they now all have!
Daffodil
Myron the mummy's boy (r)
Twinkle
|
Harriet
Skylar
Mum and Murphy and Myron
|
Murphy
Sparkle
Big snuggles with her boys
|
27th November: 7weeks old today.
I've been really slacking on the updates. This family are keeping me so busy it's incredible.
We're working on toilet training and using the doggy door (there's no rigid flap in it so easy to jump through). They catch on fast and still make mistakes but it's so fun to see a little pup leap out the door and fly down the stairs for a poo in the garden!
Watch this space, I should have photos by this afternoon providing everyone sits still long enough. xx
We're working on toilet training and using the doggy door (there's no rigid flap in it so easy to jump through). They catch on fast and still make mistakes but it's so fun to see a little pup leap out the door and fly down the stairs for a poo in the garden!
Watch this space, I should have photos by this afternoon providing everyone sits still long enough. xx
Sorry!
I keep this page as a journal for Sabrina but there seems to have been a bit of confusion about the puppies.
* The puppies won't be ready until after 1st January 2014. They won't be available until after then at least. They will be chipped, 8wk vaccinated, wormed, 12wk vaccinated and desexed.
* SSR won't be taking puppy applications until they are listed with their own individual profiles.
* We cannot offer play visits, they won't have a decent immunity until the 12wk vaccines.
I also need to apologise to Karen our frontline contact, who has been answering inquiries for puppies she hasn't even met yet.
Thank you for your patience. xxx Anna
I keep this page as a journal for Sabrina but there seems to have been a bit of confusion about the puppies.
* The puppies won't be ready until after 1st January 2014. They won't be available until after then at least. They will be chipped, 8wk vaccinated, wormed, 12wk vaccinated and desexed.
* SSR won't be taking puppy applications until they are listed with their own individual profiles.
* We cannot offer play visits, they won't have a decent immunity until the 12wk vaccines.
I also need to apologise to Karen our frontline contact, who has been answering inquiries for puppies she hasn't even met yet.
Thank you for your patience. xxx Anna
Daffodil @7wks
Sparkle @7wks
|
Harriet @7wks
Murphy @7wks
|
Twinkle @7wks
Skylar @7wks
|
Mum and Myron, he's a mummy's boy and loves her company.
|
Mum of seven needs her beauty sleep when she can get it!
|
7th December: vaccination day.
All healthy and now vaccinated with C3 against distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis. Just the basics for now so we don't overdo it on the first go. At 12 weeks we'll have kennel cough included.
Anyway here's what weigh-in time told us: Myron's in the lead of course. He's going to make a fantastic family dog.
Myron__ 3.2kg
Sparkle__2.5kg
Daffodil__2.5kg
Harriet__2.4kg
Twinkle__2.4kg
Murphy__2.1kg
Skylar__1.7kg
Anyway here's what weigh-in time told us: Myron's in the lead of course. He's going to make a fantastic family dog.
Myron__ 3.2kg
Sparkle__2.5kg
Daffodil__2.5kg
Harriet__2.4kg
Twinkle__2.4kg
Murphy__2.1kg
Skylar__1.7kg
17th December: 1o weeks tomorrow!
Growing into super beautiful little dogs. It's hard to believe they were born just ten weeks ago. Sabrina is joining in with their games and seems happier than she's ever been since that first day. She's like a different dog.
Mum and Myron the Mummy's Boy
Harriet
Murphy
|
Myron
Daffodil
Sparkle
|
Twinkle
|
Sleepy Skylar
|
Sunbake Skylar
|
20th December: a little bit sad
It's so close to Christmas already, it seems like the bugs were just born yesterday and it's finally sinking in that they will have to fly the nest soon. They'll be here for Christmas though. I'm going to make them turkey muffins w/ natural yoghurt and beetroot icing (it turns out pink and so yummy).
Then it's time for Pet Rescue profile photos and descriptions. It really is a good time of year for people to adopt and settle a little one into the family. But I'm still feeling a little sad.
Every day I think about their different personalities. So far my thoughts are:
Myron...he'll be a good size boy around 10kg like his Dad. That's a great 'family dog' size and his nature will fit that pretty well I think. He's playful and mellow, like a funny teddy bear. He'll be easy to train too. Smart smart smart!
Daffodil...she's probably the one who is going to get the most from puppy classes and socialisation. I love her yellow coat like a mini labrador. And she loves exploring the garden. Pouncing out like a spring and has had several dips in the frog pond because of not watching where she's going.
Harriet...there's a story behind Harriet. A dear old dog in our street called Harry passed away this year. Being the local dog lady her owners donated her large soft bed. Anyway, before Mum had her puppies I set up an awesome whelping area with all the bells and whistles. So what did Sabrina do? Insisted on giving birth in Harry's bed.
Harriet was the first born, she has her name because I wish for her everything that Harry had. A long happy life and loved every single minute of that time. Harry is still greatly missed in our neighbourhood.
Harriet is a kind and thoughtful puppy, gentle and sweet just like her namesake.
Sparkle....Dreamy eyed Sparkle. What a divine puppy. There's not much I can say, her photos tell everything much better than I could possibly manage. Hug her, get a puppy kiss and you fall in love.
Twinkle....when they were born she was Sparkle's exact twin. The only way i could spot the difference was by the white mark on her toe. So she was called Twinkle Toes and the name stuck.
Now she's so different looking to her sister. An incredibly intelligent and friendly puppy, she will be hard to part with.
Murphy....nicknamed Smurf! He's a roly poly little monkey pants, absolutely hilarious when he gets up speed on those short little legs. I've no idea where he picked up his size and looks but he still has a fontanelle that is closing up. A trait of some toy breeds. It means he'll be better in a home with small dogs and grown up people.
Skylar....the smallest and most delicate of all. Very people oriented and is one of those pups who plays hard and sleeps like a log. He'll be another cutie pie who will need a small dog home. As often happens, he's the one with the smallest body and the biggest bark.
Sabrina....I worry for her. Mums get left behind when their babies go. I keep trying to get a good photo of her, or at least a video of her playing with the puppies and teaching them good etiquette. She even gets a smile happening...you know when their top lip gets stuck over their teeth? And it looks like they're pulling a funny face. Like this ---> Jeff being casual
That's enough of my rambling. Off to make doggy bon-bons. Natural brown paper, treats rolled up inside and twisted at both ends. Lots of fun for all the dogs on christmas day.
Have a safe and happy holiday season. I hope you've enjoyed the last 3 months of doggy journal. We'll be back soon.
xxxxx Anna @ SSR
Then it's time for Pet Rescue profile photos and descriptions. It really is a good time of year for people to adopt and settle a little one into the family. But I'm still feeling a little sad.
Every day I think about their different personalities. So far my thoughts are:
Myron...he'll be a good size boy around 10kg like his Dad. That's a great 'family dog' size and his nature will fit that pretty well I think. He's playful and mellow, like a funny teddy bear. He'll be easy to train too. Smart smart smart!
Daffodil...she's probably the one who is going to get the most from puppy classes and socialisation. I love her yellow coat like a mini labrador. And she loves exploring the garden. Pouncing out like a spring and has had several dips in the frog pond because of not watching where she's going.
Harriet...there's a story behind Harriet. A dear old dog in our street called Harry passed away this year. Being the local dog lady her owners donated her large soft bed. Anyway, before Mum had her puppies I set up an awesome whelping area with all the bells and whistles. So what did Sabrina do? Insisted on giving birth in Harry's bed.
Harriet was the first born, she has her name because I wish for her everything that Harry had. A long happy life and loved every single minute of that time. Harry is still greatly missed in our neighbourhood.
Harriet is a kind and thoughtful puppy, gentle and sweet just like her namesake.
Sparkle....Dreamy eyed Sparkle. What a divine puppy. There's not much I can say, her photos tell everything much better than I could possibly manage. Hug her, get a puppy kiss and you fall in love.
Twinkle....when they were born she was Sparkle's exact twin. The only way i could spot the difference was by the white mark on her toe. So she was called Twinkle Toes and the name stuck.
Now she's so different looking to her sister. An incredibly intelligent and friendly puppy, she will be hard to part with.
Murphy....nicknamed Smurf! He's a roly poly little monkey pants, absolutely hilarious when he gets up speed on those short little legs. I've no idea where he picked up his size and looks but he still has a fontanelle that is closing up. A trait of some toy breeds. It means he'll be better in a home with small dogs and grown up people.
Skylar....the smallest and most delicate of all. Very people oriented and is one of those pups who plays hard and sleeps like a log. He'll be another cutie pie who will need a small dog home. As often happens, he's the one with the smallest body and the biggest bark.
Sabrina....I worry for her. Mums get left behind when their babies go. I keep trying to get a good photo of her, or at least a video of her playing with the puppies and teaching them good etiquette. She even gets a smile happening...you know when their top lip gets stuck over their teeth? And it looks like they're pulling a funny face. Like this ---> Jeff being casual
That's enough of my rambling. Off to make doggy bon-bons. Natural brown paper, treats rolled up inside and twisted at both ends. Lots of fun for all the dogs on christmas day.
Have a safe and happy holiday season. I hope you've enjoyed the last 3 months of doggy journal. We'll be back soon.
xxxxx Anna @ SSR
27th December: puppy profiles
Well Christmas with the babies was a hoot and Sabrina looooved turkey for lunch.
Today I've started working on individual profiles, it's hard to imagine them leaving home but it's the right time for them to move on and begin new lives.
It's a comfort knowing we have a lifetime return policy as well as a very thorough adoption team but as you can imagine it's still an anxious time for me.
If you're considering puppies, there is an excellent podcast by the award winning Judi Buchan, please have a listen. It's lengthy but gives you a good excuse to sit down for a cuppa.
Here it is (podcast link is at the bottom of the article: http://volarephotography.com.au/podcast/tips-on-choosing-a-puppy/
I'd also like to discuss a couple of things: puppy preschool....excellent socialisation and more like a training of the owners to start with! But it's a good start in life.
Please do not take puppies to off leash parks. At a young age, bad experiences will stay with them forever and it's very easy to have a pup 'rolled' or roughed up by another dog. It all happens very fast and can cause fear issues.
Watch interaction with young children. That's a fairly obvious one but never leave kids under ten and dogs together alone. It can end in tears on either side.
Pet Insurance: take it from me. SSR have rescued hundreds of dogs. Even if they come in a complete wreck they all leave in their best physical condition.
BUT, please check the top of our home page for Speedy's fundraiser: we rescued him and in every way he was a perfect little crossbreed hardy little dog. However he matured into a dog with an incredibly rare, unlikely and expensive bone growth condition that none of us have seen before and could never have been predicted. If he had been adopted as a puppy his owners would now be facing $6000+ in specialist surgery. Just something to consider.
Back in the next few days with photos and links to each profile.
It would be lovely to see Sabrina go with one of her babies, I'm thinking that if she does...instead of a normal adoption fee for her we could amend it to a tax deductible gift donation.
Today I've started working on individual profiles, it's hard to imagine them leaving home but it's the right time for them to move on and begin new lives.
It's a comfort knowing we have a lifetime return policy as well as a very thorough adoption team but as you can imagine it's still an anxious time for me.
If you're considering puppies, there is an excellent podcast by the award winning Judi Buchan, please have a listen. It's lengthy but gives you a good excuse to sit down for a cuppa.
Here it is (podcast link is at the bottom of the article: http://volarephotography.com.au/podcast/tips-on-choosing-a-puppy/
I'd also like to discuss a couple of things: puppy preschool....excellent socialisation and more like a training of the owners to start with! But it's a good start in life.
Please do not take puppies to off leash parks. At a young age, bad experiences will stay with them forever and it's very easy to have a pup 'rolled' or roughed up by another dog. It all happens very fast and can cause fear issues.
Watch interaction with young children. That's a fairly obvious one but never leave kids under ten and dogs together alone. It can end in tears on either side.
Pet Insurance: take it from me. SSR have rescued hundreds of dogs. Even if they come in a complete wreck they all leave in their best physical condition.
BUT, please check the top of our home page for Speedy's fundraiser: we rescued him and in every way he was a perfect little crossbreed hardy little dog. However he matured into a dog with an incredibly rare, unlikely and expensive bone growth condition that none of us have seen before and could never have been predicted. If he had been adopted as a puppy his owners would now be facing $6000+ in specialist surgery. Just something to consider.
Back in the next few days with photos and links to each profile.
It would be lovely to see Sabrina go with one of her babies, I'm thinking that if she does...instead of a normal adoption fee for her we could amend it to a tax deductible gift donation.
29th December: Almost ready
Next is profile photos for Pet Rescue....
Then I need to start packing their little bags. :-(
Then I need to start packing their little bags. :-(
1st January 2014: Puppy Profiles
There, it's done. I'm just about to activate the adoption listings and close down the laptop. I can't believe this day is here already.
So with sadness for myself... hope and excitement for the babies' futures....2014 is off to a start that I never expected just a few months ago.
The rehoming process for 7 puppies and *fingers crossed* Mum Sabrina as well, is going to be hectic, stressful, time consuming and a really weird combination of happy and sad. But in the end when they are all asleep in their little beds with their new families close by it will all be worth it.
Drumroll......
The babies, 12 weeks on.
So with sadness for myself... hope and excitement for the babies' futures....2014 is off to a start that I never expected just a few months ago.
The rehoming process for 7 puppies and *fingers crossed* Mum Sabrina as well, is going to be hectic, stressful, time consuming and a really weird combination of happy and sad. But in the end when they are all asleep in their little beds with their new families close by it will all be worth it.
Drumroll......
The babies, 12 weeks on.
note: May 2014 all our bugs and their beautiful Mum have moved on to start their new lives- scroll to the very bottom for adoption updates.
Myron, Now Harley is Adopted
male
DOB October 9th 2013
Myron loved his play date so much he's packed his little bags and left home!
male
DOB October 9th 2013
Myron loved his play date so much he's packed his little bags and left home!
Murphy is Adopted
male
DOB October 9th 2013
Smurfy was nervous at his playdate but has decided to start his adoption trial.
male
DOB October 9th 2013
Smurfy was nervous at his playdate but has decided to start his adoption trial.
Skylar - Adopted with Daffy!
male
DOB October 9th 2013
male
DOB October 9th 2013
Daffodil - Adopted with Skylar!
female
DOB October 9th 2013
female
DOB October 9th 2013
Harriet is Adopted
female
DOB October 9th 2013
Harriet charmed her new parents on their play date and has decided to live with them forever.
female
DOB October 9th 2013
Harriet charmed her new parents on their play date and has decided to live with them forever.
Sparkle, now Gemma is Adopted
female
DOB October 9th 2013
Sparkle has chosen her forever home.
It was a fun morning playdate and Skylar came along for the ride. Sparkle is the first of our babies I have to kiss goodbye.
female
DOB October 9th 2013
Sparkle has chosen her forever home.
It was a fun morning playdate and Skylar came along for the ride. Sparkle is the first of our babies I have to kiss goodbye.
Twinkle; now Marlyse is Adopted
female
DOB October 9th 2013
Twinkle, now Marlyse has chosen her new family.
female
DOB October 9th 2013
Twinkle, now Marlyse has chosen her new family.
Sparkle's new mum Sharon suggested I should get videos for myself to remember the puppies by. So I'm going to share one. It's on my cruddy concrete section (sorry about that) and they are playing with their beaten-up cat tunnel that's been the best $5 puppy toy I've ever bought. It's just about falling apart now but they still love it. Apple is there too. She's very into puppies.
And for anyone who has forgotten what it's like to have a puppy....well this should bring the memories flooding back! LOL
The little ratbags.
And for anyone who has forgotten what it's like to have a puppy....well this should bring the memories flooding back! LOL
The little ratbags.
January 2014
My apologies for such a huge gap in updates. A flurry of adoption duties, the return of Daffodil for which I blame myself.
And the loss of my dear friend to cancer. RIP Sean.
And the loss of my dear friend to cancer. RIP Sean.
February 2014
Daffodil has been relocated to foster care on the mid-north coast to get a start on the training she should have started by now.
She is learning sit, stay, drop! And car travel as well as leash manners.
Our lovely Naomi took some beautiful photos for us. *** NOTE: DAFFY HAS BEEN ADOPTED WITH SKYLAR AFTER SOME TIME APART
She is learning sit, stay, drop! And car travel as well as leash manners.
Our lovely Naomi took some beautiful photos for us. *** NOTE: DAFFY HAS BEEN ADOPTED WITH SKYLAR AFTER SOME TIME APART
|
|
Skylar is still waiting!
He's got a touch of demodex (it's a non-contagious skin mite that affects some pups and clears up with time and some Advocate). He's still very much adoptable but hasn't found the right home. So I've begun leash training. It's somewhat more difficult because his Mum is here and still babies him but we may as well make a start. He's a very shy boy with strangers and will be one of those dogs who sticks to their owner like glue.
You can see a big difference between my photos and Naomi's but he's still very cuteness. *** NOTE: SKYLAR HAS BEEN ADOPTED WITH DAFFY AFTER SOME TIME APART
He's got a touch of demodex (it's a non-contagious skin mite that affects some pups and clears up with time and some Advocate). He's still very much adoptable but hasn't found the right home. So I've begun leash training. It's somewhat more difficult because his Mum is here and still babies him but we may as well make a start. He's a very shy boy with strangers and will be one of those dogs who sticks to their owner like glue.
You can see a big difference between my photos and Naomi's but he's still very cuteness. *** NOTE: SKYLAR HAS BEEN ADOPTED WITH DAFFY AFTER SOME TIME APART
|
|
Finally I got a couple of Sabrina! She's had her desexing and a repair of her huge hernia, and is recovering well. The photos still don't capture her personality. She's smart and adorable, she plays fetch and smooches up for cuddles. Squishing in as close as she can get. Those big brown eyes get me every time.
I've found a rinse of Calendula Tea makes her so shiny and red. It's good for the skin too so Skylar gets some as well. You just brew it up like normal tea, let it cool and pour it on, petals and all. **NOTE; MUMMA BEAR HAS BEEN ADOPTED
I've found a rinse of Calendula Tea makes her so shiny and red. It's good for the skin too so Skylar gets some as well. You just brew it up like normal tea, let it cool and pour it on, petals and all. **NOTE; MUMMA BEAR HAS BEEN ADOPTED
|
|
Next.. our little family in their new homes...
It's been a long journey and all the hopes we had for the family have come to fruition. The puppies, they were shy at first in their new homes. Understandable when you've always had the safety of a tight knit pack with Mum at the helm. But they landed on all paws into beautiful caring homes.
Mummabear (one of Binnie's many nicknames here) is slowly coming to terms with the fact that she is in a forever home. Stable and patient, her new family make baby steps every day. We hope with all our might that the bonding she has shown already will grow into knowing that she is safe and that after her days of whelping litters, she is going to be a companion, a friend and a vital member of a family.
She put 200% into mothering and knew little else, I often wonder how it feels to be her own person not just somebody's mum.
Mummabear (one of Binnie's many nicknames here) is slowly coming to terms with the fact that she is in a forever home. Stable and patient, her new family make baby steps every day. We hope with all our might that the bonding she has shown already will grow into knowing that she is safe and that after her days of whelping litters, she is going to be a companion, a friend and a vital member of a family.
She put 200% into mothering and knew little else, I often wonder how it feels to be her own person not just somebody's mum.
The end of our story, but the beginning of new stories for our beautiful Sabrina and her darling babies.
Marlyse (was Twinkle)
She shares her home with adopted brother Chilli and her new Mum and Dad. She plays all day, supervises Dad who works from home and is learning to go on runs with her athletic Mum.
Photos of Twinkle in her new home make my heart melt. I don't think we could have found a more perfect life to suit her shy sweet nature. Chilli has been a great confidence booster for her as well. But best of all, she is so happy. And gets all the cuddles and kisses a little dog could want.
She shares her home with adopted brother Chilli and her new Mum and Dad. She plays all day, supervises Dad who works from home and is learning to go on runs with her athletic Mum.
Photos of Twinkle in her new home make my heart melt. I don't think we could have found a more perfect life to suit her shy sweet nature. Chilli has been a great confidence booster for her as well. But best of all, she is so happy. And gets all the cuddles and kisses a little dog could want.
Gemma (was Sparkle)
Sparkle joined a fun family of cats, birds, her grandparents and of course new Mum and Dad who dote on her. She goes on driving adventures and gets so excited when her little bags are packed ready to go. Of course, she's a snuggle-bug like her brothers and sisters. And I hang out for updates on how she is growing into a stunning and oh-so adored little bug.
In her Mum's words
"The name Gemma Sparkle has stuck and that's what we all call her now. She's doing so well and is soooo happy living with us. Her nick name is Dale it's from the movie The Castle, it's the scene when the son tells the father "Dad, Dale dug a hole and it's filling with water." Yep you guessed it our Dales favourite hobby is gardening.
Gemma loves my cat Keshia a little too much and loves to grab her by the tail and pull her around. So Keshia boxes Gemma with her paws to discipline her only to have Gemma sit up on her hind legs and box her back. Our back yard looks like the local Toys r us with all of Gems toys. You have to play when she says so or she'll put the toy on your lap and hit you with her paws. Zoomies are still a favourite and after dinner at night is when she goes nuts. We play Frisbee and fetch and then we go inside to watch TV and I lay on the floor and she curls up on my back and goes to sleep!
She's the best little guard dog around but only barks if she hears something other than that she's very quiet. She knows she's bloody funny and once you laugh at her she really plays up to it. We are so close and she's very protective of me and in the morning when I get up she nearly turns herself inside out with excitement. She joins me for some vegemite on toast for breakfast every morning, I can't remember the last time I got a slice of toast to myself!
We just love her to bits and the feeling is mutual. I'm so glad we have her, she is just a beautiful little girl who has taken to being spoilt quite nicely. With her matching pink collar, harness and lead and pink coat ready for the cold weather she looks like a real little princess."
Sparkle joined a fun family of cats, birds, her grandparents and of course new Mum and Dad who dote on her. She goes on driving adventures and gets so excited when her little bags are packed ready to go. Of course, she's a snuggle-bug like her brothers and sisters. And I hang out for updates on how she is growing into a stunning and oh-so adored little bug.
In her Mum's words
"The name Gemma Sparkle has stuck and that's what we all call her now. She's doing so well and is soooo happy living with us. Her nick name is Dale it's from the movie The Castle, it's the scene when the son tells the father "Dad, Dale dug a hole and it's filling with water." Yep you guessed it our Dales favourite hobby is gardening.
Gemma loves my cat Keshia a little too much and loves to grab her by the tail and pull her around. So Keshia boxes Gemma with her paws to discipline her only to have Gemma sit up on her hind legs and box her back. Our back yard looks like the local Toys r us with all of Gems toys. You have to play when she says so or she'll put the toy on your lap and hit you with her paws. Zoomies are still a favourite and after dinner at night is when she goes nuts. We play Frisbee and fetch and then we go inside to watch TV and I lay on the floor and she curls up on my back and goes to sleep!
She's the best little guard dog around but only barks if she hears something other than that she's very quiet. She knows she's bloody funny and once you laugh at her she really plays up to it. We are so close and she's very protective of me and in the morning when I get up she nearly turns herself inside out with excitement. She joins me for some vegemite on toast for breakfast every morning, I can't remember the last time I got a slice of toast to myself!
We just love her to bits and the feeling is mutual. I'm so glad we have her, she is just a beautiful little girl who has taken to being spoilt quite nicely. With her matching pink collar, harness and lead and pink coat ready for the cold weather she looks like a real little princess."
Harriet
Fabulous update on our first born darling girl. The little smartie has already aced her puppy class and wins hearts wherever she goes. In her doting Mum's words.
"She is such a lovely little dog and she fits in so well as part of our family. She was really shy at first but we've slowly introduced her to new things and she is now quite a little socialite. She loves seeing new people and other puppies when we're out walking. Everywhere we go, people comment on how cute she is and ask what kind of dog she is. She has loads of little doggie friends in the neighbourhood, her favourite friends are Jack Russell or foxys. She loves running and chasing them, she is so fast and can outrun most dogs. She does this thing we call breaststroking, where she runs so fast her little legs go outwards as she zooms by, like she is swimming on grass. Other than one time chewing a chilli bush, she is such a good dog. She's completely toilet trained and still so happy to snuggle in for a cuddle and some pats. Even now as I type she is snuggled on my lap :)."
How cool is that!
Fabulous update on our first born darling girl. The little smartie has already aced her puppy class and wins hearts wherever she goes. In her doting Mum's words.
"She is such a lovely little dog and she fits in so well as part of our family. She was really shy at first but we've slowly introduced her to new things and she is now quite a little socialite. She loves seeing new people and other puppies when we're out walking. Everywhere we go, people comment on how cute she is and ask what kind of dog she is. She has loads of little doggie friends in the neighbourhood, her favourite friends are Jack Russell or foxys. She loves running and chasing them, she is so fast and can outrun most dogs. She does this thing we call breaststroking, where she runs so fast her little legs go outwards as she zooms by, like she is swimming on grass. Other than one time chewing a chilli bush, she is such a good dog. She's completely toilet trained and still so happy to snuggle in for a cuddle and some pats. Even now as I type she is snuggled on my lap :)."
How cool is that!
|
|
|
Harley (was Myron)
Check out how gorgeous our big Mummy's boy is looking. The photo on the left <-- cracks me up. He's going through the 'land shark' stage where you get to see a lot of those brand new pearly adult teeth.
As fate would have it, Myron found the perfect home...lots of women to fuss on him...which he has always loved. Sabrina would be so proud of her boy and over the moon (like we all are) about how well he's done and how loved he is.
Check out how gorgeous our big Mummy's boy is looking. The photo on the left <-- cracks me up. He's going through the 'land shark' stage where you get to see a lot of those brand new pearly adult teeth.
As fate would have it, Myron found the perfect home...lots of women to fuss on him...which he has always loved. Sabrina would be so proud of her boy and over the moon (like we all are) about how well he's done and how loved he is.
|
|
|
Murphy
Murphy Smufy! Our little red boy, and would you believe he was one of the runties!?
He grabbed his awesome new life with both paws and even though he can be a little shy, he takes on new experiences with his Mum and Dad by his side.
This photo is from his very first cafe outing, probably wishing he could be picked up and eat at the table like the peoples. ;-)
I just love that face, that big nose and shiny red coat. So does his new family. Murphy has been blessed with patient and sweet parents who give him all the love (and more) that he could ever ask for.
Murphy Smufy! Our little red boy, and would you believe he was one of the runties!?
He grabbed his awesome new life with both paws and even though he can be a little shy, he takes on new experiences with his Mum and Dad by his side.
This photo is from his very first cafe outing, probably wishing he could be picked up and eat at the table like the peoples. ;-)
I just love that face, that big nose and shiny red coat. So does his new family. Murphy has been blessed with patient and sweet parents who give him all the love (and more) that he could ever ask for.
Skylar and Daffy
Dear Anna,
Peter and I are absolutely in love with Skylar and Daffodil. Thanks to you and Ken (and Emma too) we have two lovely little affectionate puppies. Skylar and Daffodil love being involved, learning, love being close by (sitting on top of us), giving kisses and cuddles (and we can't get enough of it :).
On Pete's actual birthday, we took the puppies on a 'dog park crawl' - how times have changed (and for the better :)
Daffodil and Skylar have many playmates at the local dog park. They need some more people socialisation as bark like crazy at strangers coming past or near the house (especially men wearing hats..??? :)
There's still the occasional toilet training mishaps (usually our fault as we need to remember to take them out more often)...and lots of holes in the backyard ... they love hiding the bones then bringing them inside all dirty a day later to show us.... :)
It was also lots of fun to have a 'reunioun' and meet Harriet at the dog's day out!!
Puppy training at home's lots of fun too :) I bought one of those cat tunnel things (you have in video), Daffodil hides inside while Skylar tries to get her through the holes....
Big hugs to you and Ken for giving the little one's such a loving, caring fabulous start to their lives :)
Looking forward to catching up again soon,
Love K&Pxx
Dear Anna,
Peter and I are absolutely in love with Skylar and Daffodil. Thanks to you and Ken (and Emma too) we have two lovely little affectionate puppies. Skylar and Daffodil love being involved, learning, love being close by (sitting on top of us), giving kisses and cuddles (and we can't get enough of it :).
On Pete's actual birthday, we took the puppies on a 'dog park crawl' - how times have changed (and for the better :)
Daffodil and Skylar have many playmates at the local dog park. They need some more people socialisation as bark like crazy at strangers coming past or near the house (especially men wearing hats..??? :)
There's still the occasional toilet training mishaps (usually our fault as we need to remember to take them out more often)...and lots of holes in the backyard ... they love hiding the bones then bringing them inside all dirty a day later to show us.... :)
It was also lots of fun to have a 'reunioun' and meet Harriet at the dog's day out!!
Puppy training at home's lots of fun too :) I bought one of those cat tunnel things (you have in video), Daffodil hides inside while Skylar tries to get her through the holes....
Big hugs to you and Ken for giving the little one's such a loving, caring fabulous start to their lives :)
Looking forward to catching up again soon,
Love K&Pxx
Sabrina, Binnie, Binnie boo boo, Mum, Mumma Bear
Soon, we will have a progress report on Binnie.
When she arrived in care, she had a steep learning curve. Everyday things like reactions to the tv, switching the light on, smooth flooring, household noises...were all clues to an old life of a backyard dog left to breed puppies. Someone's careless loss was our gain. So this will sound strange but (like a lot of stray dogs) the very best thing that ever happened to her was to be an unclaimed pound dog. She got a chance at a real life and we desperately wanted to show her how much she deserved to be loved.
Her new family have been gently working on settling her in and holding her paw as she starts her new life. Binnie was always going to need patience, history hadn't really taught her much about how kind and safe a home can be.
She was very hard to part with but I was able to say goodbye knowing her Mum and Dad have enough heart and experience to give her the very best chance of becoming the beautiful confident dog that I saw glimpses of once she trusted me. Sabrina is the reason her babies are affectionate snugglers, so clever and so sweet. She did an amazing job and deserves the amazing family who are working so diligently on opening up a new world for her.
***NOTE:
SABRINA IS OFFICIALLY ADOPTED BY HER DEDICATED FAMILY AND THEY HAVE GIVEN HER THE LIFE SHE DESERVES!
Congratulations Mumma-Bear. xxxx
Soon, we will have a progress report on Binnie.
When she arrived in care, she had a steep learning curve. Everyday things like reactions to the tv, switching the light on, smooth flooring, household noises...were all clues to an old life of a backyard dog left to breed puppies. Someone's careless loss was our gain. So this will sound strange but (like a lot of stray dogs) the very best thing that ever happened to her was to be an unclaimed pound dog. She got a chance at a real life and we desperately wanted to show her how much she deserved to be loved.
Her new family have been gently working on settling her in and holding her paw as she starts her new life. Binnie was always going to need patience, history hadn't really taught her much about how kind and safe a home can be.
She was very hard to part with but I was able to say goodbye knowing her Mum and Dad have enough heart and experience to give her the very best chance of becoming the beautiful confident dog that I saw glimpses of once she trusted me. Sabrina is the reason her babies are affectionate snugglers, so clever and so sweet. She did an amazing job and deserves the amazing family who are working so diligently on opening up a new world for her.
***NOTE:
SABRINA IS OFFICIALLY ADOPTED BY HER DEDICATED FAMILY AND THEY HAVE GIVEN HER THE LIFE SHE DESERVES!
Congratulations Mumma-Bear. xxxx
------------
I've bumped this diet list down the page to make way for updates but will leave it here as an example of how to raise healthy pups who have been (hopefully) given enough variety to keep them from being fussy adults!
I've bumped this diet list down the page to make way for updates but will leave it here as an example of how to raise healthy pups who have been (hopefully) given enough variety to keep them from being fussy adults!
Raising healthy puppies and keeping Mum feeling good.
No weetbix and milk here! No watery tinned.
Giving the family the very best start we can means splurging on everything. We need to not only cover the vital balanced nutritional needs of protein, energy, vitamins and minerals but also keep the pups adventurous when it comes to different tastes and textures. They will still happily reject things they don't want but that's puppies for you. Mum needs all the best too so is enjoying the wide variety.
Raw meaty bones are added so that they will grow into adult dogs with great teeth and a love of chewing bones and dragging on tendons.
You have to watch constantly for good growth, straight legs, good teeth, shiny coat, a healthy weight with good puppy fat but not big tight bloated tummies.
Nice poos, nothing sloppy. They should look like a mini adult poo. Also stick to the frequent worming schedule recommended for puppies or you'll see the charming roundworm make an appearance (eeeewwww).
Dear supporters, thank you for the puppy gifts to help.
Here's some of what they get in no specific order or combination:
Giving the family the very best start we can means splurging on everything. We need to not only cover the vital balanced nutritional needs of protein, energy, vitamins and minerals but also keep the pups adventurous when it comes to different tastes and textures. They will still happily reject things they don't want but that's puppies for you. Mum needs all the best too so is enjoying the wide variety.
Raw meaty bones are added so that they will grow into adult dogs with great teeth and a love of chewing bones and dragging on tendons.
You have to watch constantly for good growth, straight legs, good teeth, shiny coat, a healthy weight with good puppy fat but not big tight bloated tummies.
Nice poos, nothing sloppy. They should look like a mini adult poo. Also stick to the frequent worming schedule recommended for puppies or you'll see the charming roundworm make an appearance (eeeewwww).
Dear supporters, thank you for the puppy gifts to help.
Here's some of what they get in no specific order or combination:
|
Vet's All Natural Puppy 76
balanced roo and tripe based 
|
B.A.R.F
Meat and veg raw 
|
Di-Vetelact
Warm milky bedtime drink 
|
Lamb Shanks
with meat scored finely 
|
|
Royal Canin puppy
(they rejected the grain free) 
|
Calcium Sandoz especially important for Mum
|
Home cooked chicken, veg, lentil with fresh herbs
|
Biolac Supplement
sprinkled on food 
|
|
ZiwiPeak from the Natural Pet Store, thanks Deb!
|
A bit of fish for the challenge of strange flavours
|
Wing tips, they like the soft rubbery ends
|
eggs
grain free dry natural yoghurt whole pieces of fruit and veg sardines |
