Tales to Tell Archive / Des histoires à raconter

This gorgeous, tall, 45 lbs, 7 month old girl is a magnificent mix of Airedale/Collie/Shepherd.  Maya is striking in looks with a beautiful soft coat, adorned with the wire hair appearance which has little to no shedding.  She is gorgeous on the exterior but her soul is so much softer.  Maya has an incredible gentle demeanor, possessing an excellent temperament with children and dogs. 

Maya will be cat tested but she is has no aggressive tendencies,  only a strong willingness to please.  Maya is house trained, walks very well on leash and listens to commands with ease.
 
Maya is still a baby, and therefore someone with puppy experience is required to guide her.  Maya has an inexhaustible supply of love and limitless numbers of kisses and tail wags - who could ask for more?

Maya is spayed, vaccinated—bordatella, Max 5, Rabies—dewormed, no fleas. Vet checked.

Hello Gerdy,

Just thought you might like an update on Maya.  She is doing very well and has really enjoyed her time at our cottage this summer.  Attached are some pictures.

I took your advice and has a one hour private training session before we left for the cottage.  It was very helpful and Maya is becoming more and more obedient, although still has a ways to go.  I have enrolled us in a course in September with the group Positive Canine.  They are also the ones who gave me the private training.

Anyway, Maya is extremely happy in her new home with us, and we are madly in love with her!
Thank you for believing in us.

Take care,

Susan

Dillon is a 2 1/2 year old Black Lab mix who enjoys walks, is gentle and likes people. He's also housetrained, an attentive listener to your troubles and joys. Dillon is smart and a quick learner -- dumped through no fault of his own.

"Hello,

I'm giving you the news of my first night at Gail and Mario's. I slept like a log. Went to bed at 11 and got up this morning at 8! Wow, what a rest. Hum.... I still see my new furry cat friends are around. Bilbo decided he would become my pal so he pushed up his head and body against me. As for Gandalf, we are often nose to nose; I guess we're studying each other.

They haven't spit at me ..yet. The moment I got up, so did the rest of the family. Mario promised to go get me a new collar and leash. Gail calls me the "worm" because of the way I wiggle my bum! Mario calls me "young man". I met Marc-André (Gail's son) last night. He's fun. He got on the floor with me and hugged me a lot. Guess I won't get rid of him for a while!!! I now have a "new territory"; a nice bed in the living room, close to a huge window and I also can look at television. That's what you call "the real life". If that's a dog life, well I want that for the rest of my days. I'm looking at my excited furry cat brothers (between you and me, I'd say I'm more distinguised because I DON'T FLY around the house). They are pests! They don't run, they FLY! I think they adore me!!!

Oh... latest news... Mario is all excited because I decided to turn on my back and show him my belly. Don't understand why, but Mario and Gail are all smiles. They do seem a bit stupid if you ask me. I tell you, these are strange people, but I love them and they seem to love me A LOT. I'm finally in a good home!

Guess I have to say goodbye now because I have things to do today.

Love to all of you.

Dillon"

Special Needs

We desperately need a foster home (or adoptive home) for Chloe.  We have just taken her into our rescue and she has been diagnosed with ACTIVE HEARTWORM.  She will be treated by her vet to clear out the baby worms from her bloodstream, SHE WILL NOT present any danger to dogs that might be in the foster family, as being treated and no mosquitoes right now, it is not contagious.  The object is to kill those in her system first, she will be given Heartguard for 6 months, then the final treatment  by her vet to get the worms in her heart.  She has no symptoms at all.  Excellent prognosis for recovery.

This girl was a breeding dog, she is 38 pounds, and 5 years old, bred every heat.  She was kept in a garage all her life, then a barn.  She is not housetrained, but is smart and can learn.  She never had the chance to learn before.  She is, as all Bassets, amazingly resilient to life’s problems, always looking on the bright side with cheerful trust all will be well in the end.  You can’t keep a good Basset down, they are sensitive but natural optimists!  

To top it all off, she was DEBARKED!    This is a WONDERFUL girl, she needs to be spayed now as quickly as possible, we will have that done as well as all vaccines as soon as she is able to tolerate them.  She is GREAT with other dogs, nice kids, and loves people, and is used to cats.  There were cats in the barn.  CHLOE was with her mate CHARLES, the three-legged Basset that is up for adoption.  She is SO NICE & SWEET, loving, and cuddly.  We can provide a crate for housetraining.  Preference for a foster or adopter who has had previous Basset experience, and can bring her back to her vet for her treatment.  Regular adoption fee will apply after her end of treatment, if being adopted.

WARNING:  Have your dogs tested for heartworm every 2 years, and EVERY YEAR use the heartworm preventative that your vet recommends, for 6 months of the heartworm season June-November, in warmer or country areas May-November.  HEARTWORM IS IN QUEBEC & ONTARIO!!  Do not listen to those who say it is not here and that no preventative is needed!!  It is much easier and cheaper to prevent.  Just 1 mosquito carrying heartworm that bites your dog once, is all it takes to develop into this life threatening condition.  Remember—there are no visual symptoms until the heartworm has affected the heart and lung’s ability to function—it is not obvious til almost too late.   This is our 4th case of active heartworm found in our rescue dogs.  Vets are reporting increased cases in their practices as well in family pets.

"Hi Gerdy & Judy,

Happy Birthday to Chloe today.  She is “6”.  She does not look her age!  I tried to put a birthday hat on her but it kept falling off.  I eventually tied the ribbon to her collar.  Here are a few shots of the birthday girl.

J Colleen"

This dear young boy is very deserving of a wonderful and loving home.  Being very calm and serious (as befits the name Dugal!), he also loves to play and has much affection to give—he is a special boy!

He gets along well with dogs and other cats. Dugal is a Domestic Shorthair, grey and white, simply gorgeous coat too! Dugal is neutered, vaccines to date, FIV and FelV tested negative, flea and parasite free, ready to dance a jig if you adopt him!

If you're looking for a sweet, huggable velcro boy with a big heart and don't mind a couple of rough edges for now, then Sandy's your guy! Sandy needs a lot of love and affection, both of which he returns in droves. Because of a lack of positive human contact as a young pup, he needs firm rules and boundaries to become the amazing dog he has the potential to be. Sandy knows his basic obedience and will be a breeze to reward train, because he is very smart, eager to please and food motivated. He is an energetic fellow but there are also plenty of moments in his day when he relaxes, takes a snooze or sits and watches the world go by.

He has been known to counter surf, but no doubt sees this as his job to help you tidy up your kitchen. He is very generous and loves to bring you gifts (slippers, towels and sundry items, even a phone), but does not destroy them. He also does his bit for the environment, shredding and recycling paper!

This exceptionally loving boy will thrive in a calm home environment, where he can feel wanted and safe, with someone who is home most of the day. He is good with people, dogs (on leash and off) and dog-savvy cats. While we feel he would do well as the only dog since he thrives on attention, he could also do well with a dog that matches his smarts and energy. He's two years old.

Meet this wonderful 3 year old male Shih Zsu who almost did not make it in this life. Frisson is a gorgeous little guy that is jovial, comical and loving.  Originally from a breeder, he was given up because he grew too big!! Frisson is actually perfect in every way. 

He has lived with cats, kids and gets along well with dogs.  He is crate trained and is clean in the home but may require a little guidance. Frisson is playful and affectionate. He is a little darling that deserves a new leash on life with someone who is committed and will never let him face an unknown future ever again.

Neutered, vaccines, heartworm tested negative, defleaed, dewormed, Bordatella vaccinated, teeth cleaned — Frisson is wagging that little tail non-stop… just waiting for his FOREVER family.

Cammi (Dublin)

Cammi is a medium sized 4 year old cross between a beagle and shepherd.  She has beautiful mascara eyes that are the envy of any cover girl.  Cammi was surrendered due to a new baby in the family, though she posed as no threat.

Cammi is very loyal to her people.  She is not an attention seeker, however she is a little reserved and cautious when introduced to someone new.  Cammi lacks a little confidence, but with the right guidance, these insecurities will be overcome. 

While with Gerdy, Cammi has been introduced to other dogs and enjoys her playtime with them.  She also enjoys little adventures which also boosts her confidence.  Cammi enjoys her outings with enthusiasm which is evident by the non stop wagging of her tail.

Cammi is secure enough to be left alone at home – no noise and no destructive behaviour.  She is clean in the home and asks for the door when it is time to go out.  She is also well mannered indoors and outdoors.  She may require a quick refresher course on her commands since they have not been re-enforced throughout the years.  She did however have a basic course, so anyone with dog experience will be able to accomplish this quickly.

Cammi wants so desperately to belong to someone.  She wants to be cherished and find a forever family so that she feels secure and loved.  It is recommended that Cammi be placed with children over 9 that are dog savvy and a CALM family that has the time and patience to make Cammi comfortable and secure.  Though she previously lived with an older cat, it would be best to find her a home without one or a cat that is very relaxed and laid back.

Cammi has been spayed, fully vaccinated, heart worm tested negative, de-wormed and flea prevention, and is on Revolution heartworm preventative.

Cammi is waiting for that special someone who will love her as much as she will love them.  Consider this loyal young lady as part of your family - she will be a fine addition to your life.

Fargo (Giddeon)

I am a Rottweiler/Shepherd mix and the gentlest of dogs!  A perfect family dog I am not a big boy but weigh about 50 pounds.  I am about 2 years old and was a stray who ended up in a pound.  However the people who found me and took me to the pound went and got me out when they learned it was a high kill pound using gas to euthanize! 

I went to Gerdy’s Rescues when a Gerdy’s volunteer went and got me.  A big thank you to the lady who saved my life by getting me out!!  Everyone is impressed by my gentle manner, I am not aggressive at all and get along fine with other dogs and cats. I'm a real cream puff!!  When I had my heartworm test I rolled onto my back & offered my paw—how good is THAT! Everyone loves me who meets me! I love everyone! 

Neutered, vaccines to date Max 5, Bordatella, Rabies, heartworm tested negative, dewormed & defleaed just in case.  Call Gerdy to see me, you won’t have far to go to meet FARGO!!

"Hi Guys!

Carrie here! I was just browsing your website's "happy endings" page and I realized that my gang should also be up there! My dear dear now Dublin (Cammi) is the highlight of my life, my little princess, she is my bestest friend, my sidekick. And the newest addition,now Giddeon (Fargo) is by far the sweetest, most charismatic and gently hilarious dog I have ever met. He is such an incredible pet, I, along with my entire family, love him more than words can describe.

It took a week or so for Dublin to let another pup into her little world, but now the two of  them are best friends, spending their days playing together and relaxing in the sun. People always mistake them for siblings, and always comment on what a beautiful pair of pals they make!! Here are some pics of my lovely little gang.

Thank you again and again for everything!!
 
Carrie, Dublin and Giddeon"

Courtney was one of the souls left in a pound to be gassed.  Courtney is a female, 1 year old boxer mix whom no body wanted. Gerdy could not and would not leave her behind and we are more than pleased to have her.

Courtney is one of the purest souls that have ever walked through these doors.  She is excellent and respectful of dogs, cats and children.  In fact her foster mom has noted that she prefers to be with her feline friends.  She has an incredibly gentle and tender nature who follows her foster mom with trust and reassurance.  Courtney asks for the door and has excellent house manners.  Courtney has no food nor toy aggression.  She is a real princess with an impeccable disposition and behaviour.

Courtney deserves only the best.  If you are looking for a trustworthy and tender soul then Courtney is waiting to start a new life with a family that will cherish her forever.

Courtney is presently not up for adoption because she is severely underweight.  We are however currently screening applicants.

'Hi Gerdy,

Here is an update on Courtney.

Since I have officially adopted her, she has been great. She gets to play with other dogs everyday.  She is extremely smart!!!  sometimes too smart for her own good. and she LOOOOVES water!!
so here are a few pics!

Hi folks! I am still a baby at 130 pounds, I am 11 months old. I am a magnificent purebred Saint Bernard who loves kids. I need a FAMILY EXPERIENCED WITH MY BREED OR OTHER GENTLE GIANTS like me, I settle down well in the house after my play but I am too boisterous for toddlers or young children (tho I love them) at my own baby age! 

I was dearly loved by my family but they had to give me up because of severe allergy in their child, so entrusted me to Gerdy. I am too big for an apartment but would love a house with a big fenced in back yard as I need a lot of exercise so you can play with me and not leave me out by myself. 

I am definitely not guard dog material — strictly an indoor pet! Of course, I will need obedience guidance as I was not born knowing my manners! But my nature is so good that when I am an adult, someone is going to have a wonderful dog in me! I am housetrained. 

I will be neutered before being adopted, have all my shots up to date, heartworm tested negative, flea and worm free, good health.

Note from the previous owner:

"Dear Gerdy,

Oh My Gosh :)

I'm so happy that Ralph found a great home where he's dearly love. Just like the one he had with us ... I'm truly happy, he is such a wonderful dog, gentle and sweet :) He is truly smart and amazing I miss him dearly... He must he on cloud 9 to be walked and brushed everyday, he loved to be brushed. That was our quality time together every night .. anyhow I have to stop dwelling on it ... Thank you so much, I can never thank you enough for what you did :) THANK YOU!

I will never forget the great help and will refer you if I ever see a dog in need .. You can make sure that by the end of the year I'll make a donation because I really care about what youre doing .. Not alot of people would devote their time for animals the way you guy's do it ... I'm happy I made the right choice by giving him to you so you could find him a great home :)

Ralph will always be in my heart but at least I wont have to worry if he's happy or not :) im sure he is :)

THANK YOU !!!

M.R. and all the familly"

"Hi there, Gerdy and Judy

It's been a few weeks now since we've given each other any news.  I really hope that everything is going well for my fellow companions. As for me....well I am now a real LEDUC, yes I have a real brother who is Thunder Leduc and my parents are Johanne and Daniel..  Wow, they say I eat a lot but that I need it because I was so skinny when I first got here. Remember me on June 27th when I first came here?  I lost weight and was only 127 lbs.  Well now I am over 140 and doing well.  I am my family's shadow as they say.  I follow them in every room and always want to be with them.  My parents feel so sorry for me because they say that many people stay away from me because I can dirty them with my saliva.  They believe that these people don't know what true love and affection is.

I have so much fun playing with my brother.  This week, a friend of ours (bull mastiff) tried to lay a paw on me but Thunder doesn't allow any other dog to try and dominate me.  We defend each other as good brothers should always do.  Well Gerdy and Judy, I hope to hear from you.  I will always remember you for all the good you do.  If only everybody who decide to get a pet would be responsible enough!  You could sit back and relax.  Thank God you are there for us.  Love ya, take care of ourselves too and hope to hear from you soon and see you.

Your adorable friend forever

Ralph Moka"

Do you remember me, your adorable big baby St. Bernard which was adopted last June by Daniel and Johanne from Ile-Perrot?

I only want to let you know that I'm doing just great and having a good time.  I could never stand to be separated from my brother Thunder and my family.  Just like you told me, I'm behaving very well and I give everyone a whole lot of love.

When I was adopted, I was a little underwweight but that was then.  I now weight over 170 lbs and have a passion for eating. That's my little problem because I can't resist to food when I see some, even on the kitchen counter!!!

Even if I'm huge and leave a lot's of saliva everywhere, my charms overcome the extra cleaning and I believe that I am loved as much as can be.

Thanks for giving me a new life and a family that accepts me as I am and loves me for what I am!!!

Ralph Moka XXX"

Born August 6 2008, this 8 month old boy looks like a Bouvier mix, but is also BROTHER to  BELLA!!  They do not look at all alike!!

Given up by the owner due to medical reasons, he is neutered, vaccinated-Max 5, Bordatella and Rabies, heartworm tested negative, defleaed & dewormed just in case.  Playful and still a pup, Midnight has energy and loves to play.  He is very smart and with good grooming will be a distinguished -looking dog indeed. Obedience training will turn him into a perfect companion.  Gorgeous warm eyes and beautiful coat make Midnight irresistible!

Simon says: “I am the most irresistible little man that will steal the hearts of everyone that meets me”. Simon is an adult 4-5 year old pint size cross Shitzu Maltese and hypoallergenic! He has an excellent temperament that gets along famously with children, cats and dogs. He is very willing to share his toys and food with everyone without a fuss. He is not a barker and is not overly active. He enjoyed his well deserved bath, grooming and his favorite pastime is going for walks by the water and greeting everyone with his permanent grin. Simon is excellent on leash and will not pull but instead will walk perfectly beside his human.

Simon would love to meet someone who will ensure that he is always well groomed and walked in the outdoors on a regular basis. He is an intelligent dog who is always willing to please no matter what is asked of him. Simon was abandoned, for no good reason.

Simon says that he is ready for a new ‘leash’ on life. He is excited to meet his new forever family who will provide him with lots of love and care that he most certainly deserves. Simon will be neutered, shots including Bordatella, heartworm tested negative, defleaed & dewormed just in case.

"Hello everyone,

We just thought that we would send you an update on Simon. He is just the absolute LOVE of our lives! We thought Brinkley was a good dog, but Simon has absolutely exceeded all of our expectations.

His little tail never stops wagging, and he plays with the kids so gently ALWAYS.

We absolutely LOVE him to pieces and want to thank you so much for rescuing him, so that he could become part of our family.

I have attached some recent photos of him with the kids (loving him!).

Thanks for all the wonderful things that you do!

All the best,

Kathleen, Terry, Nicholas, Sarah, Simon and Brinkley Julien"

"Hi Gerdy,

I wanted to give you an update on the little guy SIMON :)

He is doing very well here, and fitting in amazingly!

He has all but stopped pooping and peeing in the house...it went on for quite a few weeks. I got a crate for him and used it for about two weeks whenever I would go out, and then migrated him to being gated in the kitchen, and now he has free reign, and doing well.

He is so cute right now you wouldn't even believe it, his hair has grown out and he is so fluffy and cute! He does that fluffing of his head with his back feet when he get excited, and he sits up with his hair just crazily sticking up on the top of his head. We call him 'FLUFFER NUTTER' when he does it...he is so sweet.

He has taken to sleeping the whole night on the bed with me, at the bottom. He starts out in his own bed still but usually by about an hour into sleep, I will wake up to find him on the bed snoring away!!

He LOVES Brinkley, and won't go out without him....he waits on the porch and the two of them go bounding off together. He won't come up to bed either unless Brinkley comes up....too cute.

Simon has all kinds of new nicknames, Fluffer, fuzzy face, etc...he is just so adorable and good natured. We all love him!

He does a trick that we didn't teach him, and I wondered if he ever did it for you? When he is waiting for me to feed him (getting everything in the bowl etc) he will sit up on his bum, with his paws raised.....it is SOOOO cute! It is like he is giving two paws at the same time. I give him a treat now whenever he does it, because someone must have taught him it, and he is just so funny....it is adorable!

His nose healed up really well. He still snores like an old man, but it seems to only be when he lays a certain way...other than that he is fine.

I hope that everything with you is going well.

All the best!
Thanks again for all you did for our little man, we love him more every day that he is with us, and he fits right in! He is just the love of my life!

Talk to you soon,

Kathleen, Terry, Nicholas, Sarah, Brinkley and Simon"

"Hello Judy, Joy and Gerdy :)

I am just checking in to see how everyone is doing. We are still loving our little Simon, he has fit in here as though he was born here! He and Brinkley are the best of buddies, and Simon won't go outside without him!

Simon had his first out of the yard adventure on the weekend...we were doing yardwork, and the gate got ACCIDENTALLY left open....and Simon went for a walk by himself! YIKES!!

He ended up over at our neighbors, where he played with their German Sheppard puppy for about an hour :) He had his tag on him, but the neighbor did not have his glasses on, and was calling the wrong number. Thankfully they took him for a walk down the road and we saw them coming, I was beside myself, and so happy to see him....My Simon was so pleased and happy with himself though. As we were chatting over the fence with his rescuers he fell asleep cuddled in my arms (I guess the puppy wore him out!)

The neighbor said he just wagged his tail at him (of course) and settled himself in, happy as a clam! It was strange that he got out because he usually is quite content to just lay on the porch in the sun, and does not wander very far, even if I have the gate open to bring groceries in etc..he never usually moves....We will know better from now on. But, LUCKILY...he was found, and is safely at home again.

He sleeps on our bed every night now, I snuggle him up in a baby quilt at the bottom of the bed. Terry says he has never seen a dog that will allow you to cover him up like that...he loves to be cozy. He still snores like an old man, and hates the thunder or rain...but I just cuddle him when he gets scared and he calms down.
I hope that all is well with you guys!

Have a wonderful summer!

Thanks again for all that you do!

Sincerely,

Kathleen, Terry, Nicholas and Sarah Julien oh and of course...Simon and Brinkley!!"

Trixie was featured in Our Tales to Tell section. Please click here to read her story.

Her vet estimates her age to be about 4 years old and not the 8  years old the owner had claimed she was. Trixie is the most AMAZING girl—a real GEM of a dog!

She was an excellent mother but she will be spayed by Gerdy’s as soon as it is safe to do so, with all vaccines updated, heartworm tested negative, dewormed and defleaed just in case.  Trixie is a  medium size mutt, but a sweet one and lovely to look at, a likely Smooth Coat Collie Mix,  White and Caramel, lovely longer coat.  She is a calm dog, wise, smart & loyal, everything you can ask for in a forever friend. 

Would be great with kids, a wonderful family dog or a great companion for any dog lover.   SHE IS EXTRA SPECIAL!

Here is a very sweet young man!  He seems to be part Golden Retriever but is as cute as can be!  This wee mix is 4 months old, was saved from being dumped in the woods to get rid of him, by a kind compassionate person who offered to take him instead and got him to safety—thank goodness for these Angels in our midst! 

This boy has a wonderful curiosity level, very fun, but gentle for his age.  Who knows what is in his family tree—but he is to us a Designer Original, and we all know who the Designer is!  Long legs, lovely golden coat—who could ask for anything nicer! 

This baby boy will have his baby vaccines and will be neutered and dewormed by Gerdy’s in due course, vet checked.  Loves other friendly dogs of all sizes, and good age to introduce to cats.

"Hi Gerdy/Judy,

I just wanted to send you a quick note and let you know that Enzo (we changed his name from Milo J ) is doing very well. He is quite the character! He really seems to love having a home of his own. We love him very much, he is a terrific dog! I have attached some new photos of him J

He is very good. He seems to be very comfortable with his new surroundings and has already mastered fetch! His favorite toy is his duck (must have something to do with his webbed feet J )

I will send you a long update soon but I just wanted to let you know that he is doing very well and we are all extremely happy!

Sincerely,

Carrie, Matt and Enzo"

Faith, a Pitbull needs a loving home after being forced to free in order to avoid being killed as a result of the Ontario Pitbull Ban.

This is a heartbreaking story about Faith.  It is rare that Gerdy’s Rescue and Adoptions are called upon to try and help someone keep their pet.  This is one of those very rare occasions where rescues have united beyond borders to try and save this deserving young soul.  Thanks to ANML-RESQ at http://www.furkidsrescue.ca and their assistance, we are able to make a difference, no matter how small it is. 

Faith was loved very much by her family who rescued her from an abusive and neglectful owner.  In fact, Faith was left behind when the family moved.  Luckily Faith was taken by a young woman and her son.  She was nourished back to health, and learnt that hands were that of love and affection.  She was safe until one fateful day.

Faith is a result of the Ontario Pitbull Ban.  The city has not granted Faith an opportunity to live a life with a family that love her.  They have ordered Faith out of the province of Ontario or she was to be put to death.  Her owner and her young son are devastated.  Faith did nothing to merit such an order.  There was no incident of aggression, free at large, or excessive barking, infact there was no incident at all.  Faith is guilty of being born with an appearance and physical characteristic that are similar to a Staffordshire bull terrier or an American Staffordshire Terrier, or and American Pit Bull Terrier.  In fact any boxer X or American Bulldog or any breed that is of a mixture for that matter, could also be destroyed based on this law.  Already, thousands of dogs with any resemblance has been and will be destroyed.  This is a travesty.  Animals of all breeds are in danger of being killed randomly, indiscriminately without thought for the animals or their loving families.

Faith is now safe in Quebec.  She will undergo DNA testing to find out what her ‘type’ is, though for us at Gerdy’s we will not discriminate.  She will find someone that will love her and cherish her forever. Her previous owner has put her trust in many people to ensure that her lovely Faith is safe and we have promised that we will collectively find Faith …hope.  Hope to be free of threat, hope to be loved once again, hope to find someone who will open their hearts and home to a once very loved dog.  We have ‘Faith’.

Faith is approximately 1.5 years of age.  She absolutely adores children, loves to play with dogs and is good with cats.  She is great on leash and would encourage an avid runner to go the distance.  She is clean in the home, not destructive and has good manners.  She is stubborn at times but with gentle guidance she responds well.  Faith has no aggressive tendencies and shows no signs of food or toy aggression either.  She is an energetic girl who would benefit from an active family.  Faith is not a guard dog.  She greats everyone with enthusiasm and eagerness.  Faith patiently waits to share her life with a deserving family who will protect her and cherish her forever.

This story is not only about a dog but also about human beings, and what it means to be a human being.  It is about how humans and animals are intertwined – how there should be no borders, nor laws without merit which rip animals from the loving arms of those who love them.

We cannot re-unite Faith and her ‘mom’ but we can make people aware that this law exists and pray that it does not affect any citizen of this province.  We can only have ‘Faith’ that this ban is lifted and all animals are equal and treated as such.  There is no room nor should there be tolerance for a bias and unfounded law which is destroying the lives of our nations animals and humans alike.  We need to be fully aware that any one of us could loose our beloved pet under these circumstances.

"Faith is officially adopted.  I saw her last night and she is doing GREAT.  She remembered me, or she is just so darn happy to me around people.  She looks amazing.  Her new dad is enrolling her in obedience training however he has done a fabulous job all on his own.  Faith has shed some pounds and her hind quarters look incredibly strong.  She apparently can outrun any dog and eagerly plays with all.
 
So thank you so very much for everything that you have done for Faith.  She is a very happy girl who is oblivious to all the commotion that once surrounded her.
 
Faith had many good people around her.  She had a previous home that went to any extent possible to keep her alive.  She had 2 rescue groups determined to ensure her safety.  She had wonderful and caring people that transported her across the Ont-QC border to safety, and now she has a new beginning in life with people that love her and will continue to let her strive forward.  A collaboration of complete strangers that show not only compassion but commitment to save a very deserving life.
 
We will be getting updates on Faith along with pictures.  I will ensure to pass them on.
 
Thank you Anml Resq - WE DID IT!!!
 
Regards,

Joy"

"Hello Gerdy, Joy and everyone at the rescue,

Sorry it took so long for me to write you, but here is some news about Faith.

After an adaptation period, everyone is getting along just fine. Faith and the cat aren't quite best freinds yet, but they like each other and occasionnaly play around or share a spot to rest in the sun light. We are working very hard on training her so she becomes a model citizen. She is a very smart girl, she learns very quickly. I have to say that the clicker, witch I am a new advocat of, is a great tool to train them. And after all the work, well we have to play play play... We take many long walk every day, go jogging, rollerblading, play in the park and all those other games she can't get enough of. You should see how much muscle she has put on, she is beautifull.

I'm going to attach some pictures of Faith in her new home.

Thank you again for this beautifull present.

Yannick and Josée"

This darling and gentle non-snapping Teckel  is about 5 years old and 10 kg in weight.  What a looker!  A good cleaning up of a filthy and neglected puppy mill dog has produced this handsome result.  He was one of 60 dogs seized and is ready to forge on with his life—go for walkies, smell fresh air, be lovied and cared for. 

We named him as being a puppy mill dog, he was one of the breeding dogs used and had no name of his own, he was just used for manufacturing profits.  Take this opportunity to seize Cesar as your own!

My name is Woody and I am a 14 month old purebred Harlequin  Teckel, about 13 pounds. I am a size between a mini and a standard. I am in the care of Gerdy’s Rescue because I never learned anything about housetraining, and as a result I was given up. 

Gerdy says I am deserving and worthy – she says that there is a special person that will teach me how to be a knowledgeable pup about good potty habits.  I am a comical, outgoing, happy-go-lucky fellow with oodles of love and affection to give.  My ideal home would be with someone who has puppy and dog experience.   

Based on my behavior evaluation I will probably do great with dogs my own size, and I LOVE people, not a snap in me!  But no small kids, I am too delicately boned for boisterous child play! But I love to play fetch with my toys.   Please find out more about me, I want so much to re-start my life with my new family.

Woody is neutered, shots up to date, dewormed & defleaed—ready to fill your life with joy and tons of laughter.

Dolly is another of our Pound Dogs saved from gassing at a kill pound.  This beautiful girl is so striking in appearance, she is a Golden Retriever/Husky mix, as sweet as they come. Great family dog, this girl is about 1 ½ years old, very gentle and ladylike.  Very good in the car.

Spayed, vaccines up to date, heartworm tested negative, parasite & flea free.   Say hello to our Dolly and make her your own!

Summer was dumped, tied up and left without food or water in harsh weather just because she became too old to breed. Please click here to read our tale to tell about Summer.

"Hi Gerdy,

Take a look at the little English bulldog X.  Sharon just loves her, she is trying to fit into the catbed!!
 
Joy"

Compassionate placement

Pal’s owner has left the country and is not coming back for him. At age nine, Pal is now homeless.

He will need to be on medication for the rest of his life for Addison’s disease (an insufficient production of adrenal hormones by the adrenal gland). This charming Husky/Shepherd mix is curious, playful and gets on well with other dogs. He loves attention and hugs and he likes nothing better than to be at your side.

Gerdy’s Rescues will continue to provide him with the medication and medical care he needs. His condition is well controlled with medication. We’re looking for that one person in a million, who has experience with Addison's, and who will give this boy his pills and love him. That’s all he’s asking for!

"Hi Gerdy and Company!

Here are some long overdue pictures of Pavlov (Pal), one taken this past winter and the other last fall. Pavlov loves his snow. He is 12 now and still acts like a young dog, especially outside in the winter! He gets along well with his cat housemates and is a joy to have around. It's hard to believe he's been here for 3 years. He's happy and healthy so hopefully he'll be around for years to come.

Thanks so much for taking in this wonderful dog and for allowing me to make him part of my life.

Sheila"

Compassionate Placement

Woody was found on a golf course after hanging around the area for at least 2 weeks, exposed to the elements and all alone in the world. The ordeal has left Woody with a heart murmur and cloudy eyes. It has been hard on him, but he is SO GRATEFUL to have been taken in and is extremely content.  He just needs time now to rebuild his constitution with good food and care.  He will make a wonderful pet.

Woody's full story can be read in Our Tales to Tell section here.

We have no idea of what breeds he has in him—another mystery—but he is around 40 pounds and the vet estimates around 7 years old.  Woody's ordeal has given him a heart murmur Currently in foster care, he is a gentle boy who needs a loving home for the rest of his days.

Woody is neutered, shots including rabies and bordatella, heartworm tested negative and started on preventative, flea & worm treated just in case. Woody just wants a lap to sit on as he watches golf on TV in the safely in his own new home!

Woody would do best in a home alone or with another quiet old dog. He loves the security of his crate for eating and quiet naps. 

"Hi Gerdy/Judy,

Well, Well, Well... What can we say?

How about "We absolutely Love him and is is such a happy dog".

Woody has made himself right at home, he's extremely affectionate, great with Cleo ( our cat ), fond of Lucy ( our other dog from St Lucia ) and we think he feels like a puppy again.

Every night when we go to bed, he spends 10 minutes snuggling with us, then sleeps on the bed until the alarm go off, then back to the snuggling again. He loves to go on walks and just wants to be pampered all the time.

Some might say that Woody is a lucky doggie, but in reality we are the lucky ones

Thanks again for introducing us to the Woodster".

"Hello ladies,

Here are a couple photos. Woody by himself and with Lucy.

What a great dog!

Dennis"

Buford is my name and fun is my game!  I was originally  given to the pound to be euthanized, but I am such a good boy!! Thanks to a kind woman who saved me, I have a new leash on life!  Excuse the pun, but I have a great downhome sense of humour.  No one walks past me without a smile, I bring joy with me wherever I go! 

I am a HUGE 2 ½ year old Basset, not fat folks—just LONG—I go on forever, haw! haw! I am a young guy not interested in the girl dogs anymore other than just friends, I hear I was tutored, no, neutered -- that’s it!  

I am a Bassethound.  That means I follow my nose wherever it leads me and I don’t look up til I am lost real good, I have a better sense of smell than a bloodhound.  So you have to keep me real safe, NEVER let me on the loose, I will run as soon as I see something move—Bassets run FAST when they want to and do not listen, Bassets make the rules, and you live by them. 

Completely loyal and good humoured, a Basset is a great family dog for gentle children to grow up with.  We love kids! Most times -- cats, and they rule us.  I  also have had my vaccinations up to date, heartworm test (negative), now on heartworm preventative, and been treated for fleas and parasites just in case.  Now I’m ready for my forever home with you. I had a skin allergy but that's fine now that I'm on a food that's right for me.

I would really show my appreciation by making you laugh and be glad you took me into your home and heart!

"Hello Gerdy,

I thought that it was about time to touch base with you, in case you were wondering about Bufford the basset. Well, Bufford is doing very well. He is showing no signs at all of any food allergies. He has consumed lamb dog food and has had no reaction. Bufford has even had craps of chicken with no adverse side effects. Nevertheless we purchase only top quality foods like First Choice and Natural Balance because of the high protein/low filler content. You will be happy to know that his coat remains beautiful and shinny, and his skin is in excellent condition as well.

It is safe to say that he is enjoying his new home on the farm. He goes for long walks in the fields and enjoys exploring the forrest. Bufford has a very active sense of smell.

Bufford gets along famously with my son, and he is always keeping on eye on him hoping to get a treat or a scrap of food. Aiden is especially fond of petting Bufford, although we have to remind him to be gentle on occassion.

Thank you kindly for your good work at Gerdy's Rescue, it is greatly appreciated,

Pat

P.S When we get a digital camera, we will send you a picture of our beloved basset,Bufford T. Wallsworth III."

I am one lucky dog—I was going to be gassed at that pound where Gerdy got a lot of dogs out into safety.  There was no reason for it other than I had been picked up as a stray  and they don’t keep dogs very long there before getting rid of them in that cruel manner. 

I am a beautiful Golden Retriever male about 3 years old, nice in every way.  I am perfectly charming as Golden Retrievers are known to be.  I was nursed back to health from a case of kennel cough that I caught at the pound, then I got neutered. 

Also was heartworm tested negative, vaccinated with Bordatella, Max 5, Rabies and was dewormed & defleaed—so I this Golden Boy is  ready to go!

Roxy is a pretty petite 7 month old female puppy that is a Lab/Border Collie cross.  She is a rambunctious inquisitive pup that is playful and has a willingness to please.  Roxy is incredibly smart and listens very intensely.  Roxy has a high herding drive in her puppyhood, so she is best suited in a home with a mature and active family that will exercise her well, also stimulating her keen mind with obedience lessons.  A natural for Agility.    No cats or very small kids because they don’t like to be herded!    

Roxy is crate trained and travels in the car extremely well.  She gets along well with dogs her size or larger, however she should not be placed with a submissive dog, because she might herd him!    She is young and has to be taught her doggy manners!    

Roxy is now with Gerdy’s Rescue in the hopes of finding that perfect family that will love her and cherish her forever.  Roxy is waiting to round up her new family and she is looking forward to life’s new adventures.

This pup has been recently spayed, all shots up to date, internasal bordatella, heartworm tested negative, no fleas or worms.

"Dear Gerdy,
 
Just wanted to let you know how well I am doing in my new home here in Bourget. It's been four months already... can you believe it? As you will see from the photos, I am really growing. On March 7th, we celebrated my first birthday (it's one day after Mom's -- we are both Pisces so we understand each other)
 
Mom, Dad and Nanny (aka Dawn, Doug and Marvina) love me to bits and I am really settling in (taking over).  I have two other people pals Katie and Jamie and everyone here thinks I am the cat’s meow. (Speaking of cats, there are 5 that live next door to us and I can't wait until summer when I can really meet them up close and personal.)
                                                         
I love my golden retriever pal Shiloh and he really love me too. Until we put a fence up, I am on a long rope outside so I like to lasso Shiloh (see photo).. Sometimes he barks to tell me to settle down when I want to play at 2 a.m.. so I go back to bed and let him get his beauty sleep.
 
Tell Ed I have my “pee issues” under control. I am learning quickly and rarely have accidents. Kiss Judy for me and tell her I am learning my doggy manners and trying so hard to please. I give lots of kisses as you know, and “my people” seem to love all the attention I give them. They tell me every day how lucky they are to have me and I feel the same way. Thank you Gerdy and Sandra, Ed and Judy and all my friends at Gerdy’s Rescue for taking such good care of me until I found my forever home.

Love you lots,

Roxy xox "

Fannie is an 8 week old Bassethound tri-colour and a dear little girl.  Very good temperament, she is social and curious about the world around her.  She is a confident girl with a very healthy attitude, just right.   In very good health, she is energetic and housetrained when taken out after her naps and feedings.

She is currently being crate trained for sleeping and naps.  Right now is at the puppy chewing everything in sight phase, which is to be expected.  Her future spay is included in her adoption fee, will be up to date on her puppy shots, and has been vet dewormed and flea treated as a precaution with Advantage.

Fannie is a baby and cries when she wakes up with little barks to remind you she needs to go out NOW!  For this reason, we feel a pup this young is not suitable in an apartment, so someone with a house and previous Bassethound experience is a MUST!  Vet references will be asked for.

Fannie needs someone who is HOME ALL DAY, would do well with a work at home person who has time for a baby dog and the time involved in raising a well balanced puppy.  She is socialized but that is an ongoing experience, so needs to meet people regularly.  She gets along well with other dogs who tolerate puppies.  Loves to chase cats for the fun of it but a cat could easily control that situation!  After all, she is still learning.

She loves people as do all Bassets, and oozes charm!!  She needs lots of walks.  Not to spend her days alone and isolated in her new home, as Bassets are very part-of-the-family dogs and like to be with their people. Fanny was given up because the family cats did not like dogs after all.

"Good Morning  Gerdy, Judy, and Roger,

I just wanted to touch base and let you know how our first night went, one word, TORNADO.  It’s been non-stop since Maggie laid eyes on Fannie.   Fannie has eaten like a champion, drinks water like a parched sailor and we have only had 2 accidents on the kitchen floor in the first 1-1/2 hours after we got home.  (It’s hard to find an appropriate place and time to pee when you’re in full play mode!). We went for a walk around the block and it was great, it was the fastest we have ever made it around the block.  She’s definitely a spitfire!

She went into her crate to sleep with no problems because she was exhausted, got up to pee around 1 am and then came back and slept through until Rainer got her up at 6 am.  Maggie has been relentless.  Poor Fannie has very little time to pee or even poop without Maggie nudging at her to play.  I think Maggie is afraid that her playmate will only be here for a short time so she needs to get every moment.

Please let me know when you and Gerdy would like to come by, you’re always welcome.  We promised Roger that we would bring Fannie by to visit so no worries, just when Hector thought he was going to have peace and quiet we’ll turn up with Fannie & Maggie in tow. 

I will keep you posted as the day(s) unfold and see if we can get everyone to relax a bit."

Christine ( & kisses but mostly nips from Fannie)

"Gerdy, Judy & Roger

A quick note to say hello and let you all know how wonderful life is for me and my family.  We have so much fun together, we cuddle, we wrestle, we walk to the store for treats and we play fetch as you can see by my picture.  I kept my defences up for quite awhile but I finally let them down because I now know for sure I am in my “forever home”.  I no longer get sick, nervous or have accidents in the car because wherever we go, we go as a family and even if my people leave me and my sister for a night they always come back and bring me home.  Thank you again for being my guardian angels and finding me my family.  Keep up the good work – much love …

Fannie the basset!"

Compassionate Placement

Age is not for sissies!  I am considered an old gal at 10 years, but I have some good employable years left believe me!   A medium size shepherd mix mutt,  my family ditched me at the pound because I was old. 

Well—Gerdy got me out,  she took one look at my wagging tail and happy, eager expression of hope and dignified energy, and figured I could enjoy a return into the family workforce instead the alternative.  After all, I am a productive dog with a good work ethic—I am loyal to the company, give my best always, can still kiss up to the boss,  and take unpaid holiday time with no complaint. 

My best work performance?  I am always there when you need me, work for every meal without complaint, will cuddle after work hours, am up to a good time when we celebrate a job well done.  I don’t make the coffee, fetch anything in fact.  But I am a good listener to your ideas, and always do what you want without question.  Except, I decide when I need a ladie’s room break, and my time at the water cooler is whenever I want!    

I have one good eye that sees all, the other one is there but cloudy.  So I can spy on your slacking workers  when they think I can’t see them and snitch to you for a cookie.  I am spayed, healthy, shots — now who is going to give old sweet Jackie the job of looking after the family business?  I want a great pension plan payable in love!

I am the daughter of Ellie May, and I am 2 1/2 to 3 months old we are guessing.  My brothers are Alfie and Buster, but we do not look alike because we have different dads, I am very pale with a bit of beige, so I look mostly like a blond Lab mix — guess I look more like Daddy.

We were all found on a country road and saved finallyby Gerdy.  Us kids were hungry and ate some gravel, and it made me very sick, so I had an operation to save my life, I hear Gerdy works to help the underdogs, so I guess I was one ‘cause here I am now, all healthy! Gerdy called me Pebbles after that!

I have been spayed, have started my puppy shots, and they defleaed me & dewormed me too. My foster mum says that I am a dear girl, I am doing well and just started my housetraining and if you take me out I will do it outside. So I have the idea but I am still wee so you need to remember when it is time.

I love to play and I don’t bark a lot for nothing, just when I get excited. I love other dogs and cats too. And I LOVE to snuggle with people!  And go to sleep in your arms. But I am doing great with my crate training too.  I am going to be a great dog to have. Now that I was given another chance — IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE!

"Hi Gerdy,

Here are some pictures of a much bigger Pebbles!

Lynda"

The 3 Amigos seek a loving permanent special home

Please help us! We're three Bassethounds who were rescued together from a puppy mill after years of constant breeding and neglect. Gerdy gave us names and the vet care we needed so now we're ready to show our love and appreciation!

Calhoun: Red and white male about 7 - 8 years old.

Judy: Tri-colour female about 7 - 8 years old.

Gilda: Speckled red and white female about 7 - 8 years old.

From Gerdy:

It seemed so easy. Last week we took in 3 Bassethounds who were used for breeding all of their 7 or 8 years in a puppy mill. They had become too old for profitable puppy production. They had lived all together in their space allotted, and had become bonded over the years in their misery, truly 3 AMIGOS surviving by their concern for each other’s well being as we later discovered. 

There went our plans to place them up for adoption individually! It would be almost inhumane to split them up as they are so bonded that they need each other having shared experiences, yet are open to being lovied all 3 at once! They have WONDERFUL personalities! Is there a home out there for these three to live together the rest of their lives in happy retirement, just feeling loved for the first time in their lives? 

They have had nothing but each other, they didn’t even have names—so now they do and are getting to know them. We are meeting the medical issues they arrived with as typical breeding dogs for pet shop puppies—the pups are cute but the parents are never seen. Well we are treating these wonderful souls for severe ear and eye infections, parasites, a turned in painful eyelid requiring surgery, an abcessed toe due to a toenail grown so long it grew backwards into the paw pad, severe urinary tract infection, and the worst teeth conditions in all three that the vet has ever seen—sheer neglect over the years. 

These dogs are SO USED to the pain of their bad teeth that it has become normal for them to regard pain as something they are used to and so NORMAL. They WILL have their teeth done by us as well as the aforementioned things. PLUS never again will they breed! We are getting all 3 of them spay/neutered. We will provide all that. 

We need someone very special who will ADOPT all 3 of them, not out of pity, but because these three have gone to hell and back and deserve loving care for the rest of their lives in a home where they feel truly wanted and valued just for being themselves for the first time ever. Their hearts and lungs are good. These guys are not hard to walk either, on leash. The girls like to walk together near the male. 

The red and white male is now CALHOUN; the female tri-colour is now JUDY; and the speckled red and white girl is now GILDA. They have discovered they like car rides—Judy and Gilda sit side by side, shoulders touching, in the back seat with Calhoun on the other side—all 3 watching the world go by. 

To see them enjoying for the first time their freedom and discovery that the world can actually be a good place, contentment felt for the first time ever just sniffing nature’s scents, and the joy on each face as they receive human affection they never had before—brings to mind the thought: After all they went through with the worst of humanity, how can they look at us with trust, calmness, and the expectation that life with humans could ever be good and loving—what faith a dog carries that all will be well no matter what he has been subjected to—and for the lucky few who do get that second chance, the miracle for man is that these dogs can trust again so easily.

We at Gerdy’s Rescues are DELIGHTED to announce with great happiness, that the 3 Amigos have all been adopted into the same home!!!

We were so afraid that dream of ours would not come true, much as we wanted it. As time passed and we got to know the now named by us (as they had no names of their own being puppy mill parents):  Calhoun, Judy, and Gilda.  They are all fantastic dogs, so close to each other that they watch out for each other and depend on each other for moral support—a bond formed in a horrific puppy mill by survivors. 

These are the most loving three dogs!  Bassets are known to be so gentle and these are so deserving of true happiness after all they went through together. They will never breed again, all are sterilized, so now they can just relax at their new home where they will be wonderfully cared for and loved by a wonderful couple who are their angels in human form—and angels to us at Gerdy’s too!! 

The 3 Amigos are looking forward to the New Year when they will be able to travel to their forever home at last!

Hi Folks!  Want the PERFECT FAMILY DOG? Well here I am!  I LOVE kids , other nice dogs, and CATS too!  On top of that I do not chew up  or destroy the house when left alone—but I might whimper a bit til I make myself comfortable in your absence. 

I am very playful, can run like crazy when I play with you outside and with other dogs. Yet I am very noble and caring.  Being a 2 year old Lab/Husky mix (mostly Lab!), I am HOUSETRAINED, love to cuddle with you to watch The Dog Whisperer on tv (you will say to Cesar how LUCKY you are to have perfect ME!)  Extremely lovable, my person has had me all my life from 4 weeks of age,  saving me from a not so great place, it was love at first sight. 

Now my person is leaving the country and can’t take me along, so Gerdy has taken me over and will find me a GREAT home with people who deserve a special boy like me.  I walk well on the Halti but otherwise would need obedience training for a regular leash. (Well, maybe I am not PERFECT, but ALMOST PERFECT!)

My most striking feature I inherited from the Husky side of the family—my gorgeous eyes—one blue and the other half- brown!  I am neutered, vaccines up to date including Rabies, heartworm tested negative, dewormed and no fleas, all set to go!  Start the New Year right—adopt ME!

This boy is about 1 1/2 years old, neutered all shots to date, heartworm tested, parasite free, Bordatella vaccine--all done. Zorro is ready to go!

Zorro is very affectionate. He knows the meaning of SIT, COME, and GO TO BED. He will wait for his food until he gets permission to eat! If you call him while he is eating, he will leave his bowl to go beside you. LOVES to play fetch! Could use leash training tho, but that is something you can learn together! A good boy, he needs a home where he can get all the attention he deserves, preferably with gentle older children or adults.

Like all Beagles, needs a Beagle-proof yard and must not be allowed off leash as Beagles just follow their nose and get lost. There is no better little dog than a Beagle.

"Hello!!

Sorry I have not got to you sooner, was hard getting the pictures of our baby Zorro online! but I did, and now Im finally adding him to your happy endings! and what a happy ending it has been! I can't even describe how happy we are with him! I've taught him many tricks such as dance, and if you pretend to shoot him with your hands, and say pow, he plays dead! One of the smartest dogs I've owned, or even seen! Me and Nick love Zorro to death! I would never be able to give this pup up, never! What a doll...

Carolyn S"

Tucker, around a year old, a Dogue de Bordeaux, arrived at Gerdy’s with a skin mite problem called demodex mange.  He was a sad sight!  Mange has an odour too to make things worse.  The owner emailed us that the dog had “acne on his chin” and he was going to be euthanized.  So we agreed sight unseen to take, treat, do all the vet things we do to prepare him for adoption and place him. 

When we set eyes upon this poor skinny  soul and realized his condition, we set out immediately to get this dog treatment for the demodex.  IT IS TREATABLE, just takes a length of time.  Tucker was an amazing boy, not once did he lose his sweetness of nature but indeed made many friends at the vet clinic—notably one worker at the vet clinic there who completely fell for his charming manner!  You guessed it!  She adopted him, itches, odour, raw spots and all!!  Now THAT is love! 

Now she has an amazing boy who thinks he is a lap dog and has never forgotten for a second—as people now admire this most HANDSOME boy—that she took him at his worst—and she has his complete devotion!

Sometimes the best gifts in life come in the worst of packaging—the beautiful soul  we see in the eyes of a suffering animal--and decide he is THE ONE.

"Hi Gerdy,

Here are a few pictures of Tucker! I sent a few going from the first week I got him up until this week! I will send more when he looks even better!
 
Audrey"

Trixie's babies were featured in Our Tales to Tell section. Please click here to read their story.

The babies are just over 2 months old and are ready to be placed in their new homes.  There are:

2 Females: Rosebud & Velvet

5 Males: Diesel (Adopted), Tonka, Montana, Jet, and Cole (Adopted).

Included in their adoption fee will be spay/neuter, deworming, vaccination to date.

The pups are healthy, vet examined.  Black with bits of white.  GREAT NATURES!  Socialized with people and used to seeing other dogs. 

Daddy a black Giant Schnauzer but babies expected to be in weight range of 40-50 pounds at maturity as mama Trixie is not a large dog.

"Hi Judy and Gerdy,

Diesel is settling in well. His tail is wagging so hard his whole body moves! I've attached a couple of pictures. He played a lot the first day and had to have an afternoon nap! Will send some pictures along the way.

Many thanks for a lovely pup!

Martin and Rebecca"

This wee boy is a Miniature Poodle and is 5 years old.  He is a darling boy-- friendly, not a mean bone but is scared of little kids, so he will go to a forever home with older children or no kids.  He came to us with his teeth needing doing, he is all fixed up now and ready to go. 

Neutered, vaccinated, heartworm tested negative, no fleas or parasites—this little chap will welcome affection and cuddling and will do his best to make you glad he chose you!

Sadie, a 1 ½ year old female  beautiful red & white Basset Hound  was abandoned and spent six long weeks in a dog pound.   She has been spayed, tested negative for heartworm, dewormed, free of fleas and her vaccines are all up to date.  

Sadie is housebroken but might  have the occasional accident.  Sadie has been crated trained. She sleeps in a crate at night and when no one is home.   She is being fostered and living with 3 male bassets and is well socialized.  She plays well with other dogs.

She loves to run and chase the other dogs outside in the yard.  Sadie has lived with small kids and a cat.  Inside she entertains herself with her favourite toys: a nylabone ball, nylabone bone or a tug rope.  She likes to look out the window and watch the birds, squirrels and people go by.  Sadie is very curious and is a counter surfer like all food oriented dogs, so don’t leave food where she can reach!

Sadie, like all Bassets, needs people contact and will do well with someone who stays or works at home.  Given every opportunity she will cuddle with you on the couch or bed.  Sadie has an amazing personality for having been through so much in her young life.  She is a very happy girl and emits lots of love. 

She would be an amazing companion for nice children or another Basset!  A natural clown, sweet Sadie is a true DREAM GIRL!

"Hi Gerdy,
 
It has been three months since we adopted Sadie and we are so happy that we got her. She is so precious, she follows us everywhere and always wants to cuddle, we call her Sweetheart.

Toby and Sadie play constantly, most of the time they wrestle and play tug of war. It took quite awhile for her to get comfortable around us but we think she is finally starting to feel like we are her family. We couldn't be happier with her, everyday we are thankful that she has entered our lives.

Toby is a different dog since Sadie has lived with us, he is calmer and even gets into less trouble, they keep each other busy enough! We have attached some pictures of Sadie and Toby together. Thank you so much Gerdy :)
 
Have a great day.
 
Céline and Tyler"

Norman is a Basset Hound who's about 2 1/2 years old and desperately needs a home! Dear Norman, who was taken in by Gerdy’s Rescues HAS TESTED POSITIVE FOR HEARTWORM. We are looking for an angel to adopt this boy who shows no sign of his illness, but needs another 3  month regimen of  heartworm preventative to knock the baby worms out of his bloodstream, so that the treatment for the adult heartworms can be done next.

BUT, Norman has to be relatively quiet though he gets along with friendly cats and dogs. PLEASE, if you would be able to  adopt and provide care for Norman,  contact Gerdy’s Rescues as we are doing his treatment at our expense. All applicants will be screened by Gerdy for suitability. 

PLEASE HELP NORMAN RECOVER FROM THIS SILENT KILLER! He is a sweetie with a Humphrey Bogart lip! Really comical to see! You will have a wonderful dog in return. 

Whisky

Whisky is adorable. He's about seven years old and is a very good natured dog. He is trained, calm and good with other gentle dogs. He was given up to be replaced by a new baby. As with most Shitzus an ideal home would have no small children (under six) so this fine gentleman can retire in a secure environment.

Shelby

Shelby is a charming six-year old Lhasa Apso. She's sweet and gentle and gets on well with everyone.

"Dear Gerdy,

Just a little note to tell you how very happy I am in my new home. I have two (much older) sisters. Between us we have three very comfy dog beds, so we get to play musical beds a lot! As I am the only boy and the youngest, I have special status and everyone is very respectful of me.

I also get plenty of yummy treats. Last week, my mom made us all special homemade liver cookies shaped like bones. Today I went to the groomer, and I look more handsome than ever. When I wear my new coat and go for a walk, strangers smile at me and even stop and talk to me. Life sure is good!

Love and woofs, Whisky.

Montreal, Quebec"

It was nice to see you and all my friends last week. I am just having the greatest time in my new home. The beds, chairs and cushions are all sooooooooo comfy that I keep finding new places to curl up in. Mom says that I am so agile that I can fly. I have no trouble jumping on to anything that takes my fancy or over the guard fence that she puts up in the kitchen to keep us there when she is out. One day I tripped the burglar alarm when I jumped out of the kitchen. That sure made mummy come home from work fast!

My stepsister, Princess, is a funny looking little creature, although my mom says that we have common ancestors. But I am a purebred, and she is a mix (some of that funny looking Lhasa got thrown into her good ShihTzu breeding!). I am very refined and aristocratic, with impeccable table manners and quite fastidious. Princess just gulps her food and treats, but I eat daintily, one small bite at a time, and I take all of my treats to my own quiet little corner, because Princess will grab them from me if I am not careful. Still, she and I are becoming a team, and sometimes I even agree to share a cushion or chair with her...reluctantly, mind you. My mom has also taken to calling me "spook" because whenever she is looking for me, I sneak up behind her so quietly that she does not even know that I am there! Mom thinks that I am just the best little dog and that it feels like I have been with her forever (even if I am lethal for burglar alarms!).

Love, Whisky"

"Hello, Gerdy,

Remember Whisky, the "fine gentleman" who I adopted at age seven, four years ago this March 5th? Here is a recent pic of him.

You must admit, he is looking younger as time goes by! He and Shelby (almost 10) are very much enjoying each other's company and life's creature comforts.

Thank you for all that you do for our "forgotten furballs". They are soooo lucky to have you as their guardian angel!

Claudette"

Oh, that Sam-I-am!!  That’s me. All 90 pounds of me, filled with love and goodwill!  I am a mélange of Blond Lab/German Shepherd/Husky who was found by a stranger along a highway.

I connected with Gerdy luckily for me after he saved me from the traffic.  I have a wonderful personality and get along with other dogs, untested with cats, but I might be ok with them.  I LOVE to be brushed!  And I am SO GOOD in the car!  I am a tad overweight and since I am about 2 years old, I likely was not exercised. 

I am neutered, heartworm tested negative, shots, Bordatella, flea and worm free and started on my heartworm preventative for the season.  Who will give a home to Sam I am?

"Hi Gerdy and Judy,

Just to let you know that Sam is doing great. He had a super weekend at the farm wrestling and playing tug of war with my sister's ridgeback. We let them off in a paddock where he could not get away, and boy did they have fun. Sam plays really well. He also went for a little walk with my Mum, and was a complete gentleman, did not pull a bit she said.

Last night we went to the vet who was very impressed by his attitude and character. He did have a lepto shot, and he did not react at all. He also had a microchip put in. He still ways 90 lbs however, as you said is a little skittish on the scale. With our long walks and his playing, he should start to slim down.

Everyone in the family and neighborhood are so pleased that he is staying as he is already a big hit.

Thanks again, and take care.

Marie"

"Hi Judy and Gerdy,

Sam continues to excel. He is doing so well on the leash, getting better with cats, still dreaming of catching a squirrel, and loving the farm. I am able to let him off the lead for supervised play, and he is getting very good at coming well called. My guess is that will be even better once obedience starts next week. I swear he is the friendliest dog in the neighborhood towards both humans and other dogs. Everyone loves him. My Mum is a huge fan, and he has her right where he wants her when we visit by using his big hound dog eyes.

He did have a yeast infection in his ears, but that has cleared up now. He was so great about having the drops in. His knees might be a little sore, so I have had him into the vet, but it is nothing too serious and will be closely monitored. He just needs to realise that he does not have to chase every ball, play every tug of war, and play tag with every dog like there is no tomorrow because there is a tomorrow for him, and I truly think he is begining to realize that. He seems to be settling in to a nice relaxed pace. He has also lost 5 kilos so the vet and I are very pleased with that progress.

His only challenge with feeling like he is home now is that he thinks he should have access to the furniture and that he needs a pillow on which to rest his weary head. Have you ever seen a more comfortable pup? Much to his chagrin, we are working on the "off" command.

Marie"

"Dear Gerdy and Judy,
 
I hope you are well.
 
Just to let you know that Sam passed his level one obedience. He did so well, especially as I had to be away the week before the exam, so he was not getting as much practice as he could have had. Besides that, he is down to 36 kg and is in great shape.

In fact, he is pretty high on himself, so we are working in settling down and having some quiet time in the evenings instead of playing non stop. He is just fabulous at the dog park, plays hard but keeps checking out where I am and comes extremely well when called.
 
Take care."
 
Marie

"Dear Gerdy and Judy,
 
I thought I would send you a little update as to how I am doing given it is almost 6 months since you took such great care of me and found me my new home. Suffuce it to say that I am one happy dog. Let me tell you why.
 
For the past 10 days I have been at the family farm in the Eastern Townships doing all sorts of amazing things. I learnt to snowshoe before all the snow went. I love it, it is so much fun tramping through the woods. Every day I go for three long walks with my friends, then I sleep the night away in front of the fire, waking up occasionally to eat a marrow bone. I am really excellent at coming (I never want to be lost again), so I get loads of off lead time. When called, I come with gusto, my lovely ears flying in the wind, and I look just like a harrier hound.
 
There were all sorts of family members here, and I was a very social boy. I think they all really like me becasue I try to be on my best behaviour inside all the time. If I need a little attention, I just put on my best hound dog face, and everyone melts around me. Jessica, one of the grand daughter, really took a shine to me and spent alot of time scratching me behind the ears - heaven. There are also 3 other dogs all of whom seem to like me, especially Juno, a 2 year old Rhodesian Ridgeback with whom I play and play.
 
When I go back to Ottawa next week, it will not be too bad as I have loads of friends there too, and get to walk 3 hours a day. You would not recognize me now, I am so fit and trim. I think that I resemble a canine version of George Clooney, handsome, rugged, with a twinkle in my eye. I think I mentioned that I passed obedience, and I do try to be good, but sometimes outside, especially on a windy day, I get a little too playful and need a doggie time out. I am really trying now. I did attend doggie day care for a little while (it is canceleld now for the winter), and it was so much fun.

There was even a pig there with whom I was friends. I am also very popular at the pet resort that I go to when my Mum has to travel for work. They send her pictures of me so she can see how well I am doing.
 
The other thing I should let you know is that I am seriously considering my future career options. I try alot of them out on our walks, in fact I am much better behaved if my mouth is full;

Lumberjack - I excel at bringing sticks home, great big ones

Environmental engineer - I pick up empty plastic bottles and bring them to the recycle bin

Professional toy tester - I have yet to meet a toy that I can not destroy

Companion - I think I am best at this

Here are some recent photos of me enjoying Christmas presents. Thanks again for all the wonderful care and help you gave to me and for finding me my new home. Mum put a check in the mail to help with all the wonderful work you do. Happy 2009, and I hope to see you soon so you can admire the new svelte me.

All the best, Sam"

An abandoned cat herself, about a year old,  mama cat “KITTY” had her 3 kittens outside last August  and brought them when old enough to beg for food,  to the door of a kind woman.  This person felt sorry for them, she could not bring them inside as her indoor cat would not accept any other cats inside. 

Kitty was a very wary, but friendly girl, who took such good care of her babies; she watched over them as the lady daily put food out for the little family. Then winter came, she fixed up a box outside for them to seek shelter from the freezing weather.  On a bitterly cold winter day she was able to coax the 3 kittens to go into her home and Gerdy took them to the vet and safety. But Kitty would not come in, try as Gerdy might, she  was a wise cat and did not trust humans. 

One day the woman  looked out the window to see Kitty perched looking inside with a bleeding eye, seeking help.  It was bitterly cold outside, with a lot of snow. She coaxed KITTY  to come inside, and so Gerdy spent New Years Day at DMV vet hospital getting treatment!   

One of her babies (Jewel) was adopted right away. Mama Cat is now so friendly and sweet natured as well as beautiful, her 2 remaining kittens, now half grown, turned out to be so very affectionate!  Now we need to find a home for each.  Mama and children have all been tested for FIV/Felv (negative), dewormed, defleaed, spay/neutered, vaccinated, vet examined as well.  In the prime of health!

Alex — Black & white male. Now 7 Months old.

Joy — Grey & white female with just a bit of white between the eyes.

Jewel — Grey & white female with more white on forehead than Joy. (Adopted)

"Good afternoon Gerdy,

I was supposed to send you pictures of Jewel, but my digital camera was stolen… I still wanted to let you know how Jewel is doing.

She seems like a happy kitten: she purrs 95% of the time! Her pastimes also include: running after her toys (although she has yet to master the art of stopping before hitting the wall); playing with my roll of toilet paper; hiding my slippers; and getting my older cat, Max, to play with her. Things weren't always easy between Jewel and Max and they still fight sometimes, but they also like to kiss each other's nose and sleep close to one another.

Jewel is an affectionate and curious kitten and I'm very happy to have given her a warm and safe home!

Marie-Noëlle"

This handsome German Shepherd Dog is 82 pounds, and one year and 10 months old.  A well marked black and tan, he is being rehomed as his owner has health problems and wanted to be sure Max was in good hands, so he asked Gerdy for help.  Max is a good loving natured boy.  Untried with cats.

Max was trained, but needs a brushup on his walking on leash, but is smart and a fast learner!  Neutered, heartworm tested negative, vaccines up to date, Max seeks his loving forever people.

"Hi Judy and Gerdy,

Here are a few photos of our Max....he is such a good boy! He is so loving and gentle and gets along great with everyone. He gets a lot of exercise and just loves chasing Little Foot around the yard, poor Footy doesnt stand a chance!  He is clumsy and goofy and fits in with our gang of misfits! Max has taken over the sofa and my place in bed....as you can see from the pic my husband doesnt seem to mind!!

Thanks again,

Tracy, Matthieu, Hailey, Max, Little Foot, Toby Master General, Nana, Cricket, Hobo and Cheese"

My name is Maude, and I am 4 years old.  I was given up because of allergy, but I am a wonderful cat!  I am a Domestic Shorthair Tortoiseshell girl, who has a beautiful gentle nature to match my exceptional looks!  I love to be talked to and held.  Your secrets will be safe with me!  I purr gently and love to be cuddled up with my person, likely I will share your bed if you let me! 

Gerdy says I am the most AMAZING girl!  An all-around GREAT cat for one person or a family.  I get along with other cats and would accept a (ugh!) dog if you have one, I’m easy!  I’m spayed, shots to date, FIV & FeLv tested negative, dewormed & defleaed just in case.  This Maude’s for you!

Julia

This little 1 year old Miniature Pinsher  of black and brown is a darling girl, very sweet and friendly, who was found abandoned during a severe thunderstorm. She is such a sweetheart, good natured, cheerful, wonderful temperament all in her 5 ½ pounds!  Extremely lovely dog in every way! 

She is now spayed, shots to date, heartworm tested negative and on prevention, flea & parasite free.  Loves to be carried and held, cuddles into your arms! Loves to walk on leash too!  Julia is ready for a forever home this time!

Phoenix

This beautiful young Tortoise-shell cat was attacked by a person and almost strangled and bashed to death, merely for wandering into his yard. You can read about her recovery here.

"Hi Gerdy & Judy,

How did this happen?  After the death of my Rottweiller Ben, I have been searching for another.  A year has passed and still no sign of my dream dog….until Julia!  Who would have guessed that a tiny little girl would make her way into my heart with such magnitude.  Only 125 lbs less than I am used to, this little package has made such a big impression.

Julia has taught me a lot – ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’.  She also has showed me that sometimes you have to keep an open mind and heart.  She taught me not to limit myself and be ‘prejudice’.  She makes me aware that good things do come in small packages.  In short, I would not part with her no matter what!  She is here to stay and she will watch over me, as I her.

We have become quite the gang.  The four cats are still a little bewildered as to how she fits in.  Sometimes they groom her like a cat, play with her but when she has had enough of the ‘cat pack’ – she let’s them know. After all, she is nothing short of a full grown dog.

I thank both you Gerdy and Judy for letting me adopt this little wonder.  She has come to be very much part of who I am.  We take life very seriously little Julia and I.  Where there is me, there is Julia.  We are a package deal.

Again, we both thank you for introducing two unlikely pair that just seems to need each other more than we thought.  We are one.

Best Regards,

Joy, Julia and the Cat Pack"

This boy is a charmer!  At 1 1/2 to 2 years of age, he is a purebred tri-colour Bassethound, who was dumped on the road.  He has a WONDERFUL temperament, very sweet and friendly to all he meets, the very essence of the true Basset nature!  He’s a lover, not a fighter!

He travels well by car, is calm for his age, but playful. An ideal dog for a loving family. He is neutered, all shots to date, on heartworm preventative now, dewormed & defleaed just in case.  Elliott is a smaller built Basset, a real gentleman, and so handsome!

"Hi Gerdy,

We just wanted to email you to let you know how well things are going.  We've had Elliot (we've renamed him Winston) for 3 months now and he's doing great.  He's such a well behaved little man and he gets along fantastically well with our other dog Ally.  Our only regret about adopting Winston is that we didn't do it sooner.

Thanks again for everything,

Adam and Natalie"

This 5 ½  month old Basset pup was going to be euthanized for no good reason other than he wasn’t wanted after all! Toby is a very friendly boy, typical Basset good natured, playful, and loves to be cuddled! 

He needs a home where someone can care for a pup all day and work on housetraining as he is a baby. Purebred, Toby is  just wanting to be given a chance to live a good life with you!  Neutered, shots, dewormed.

"Hello Gerdy,

I wanted to let you know that Toby is still doing find and send you a few pictures of him.  I hope you like them.

Valerie and Family"

Compassionate Placement

Odo is a 12 year old Royal Standard Poodle of 52 pounds  that needs a retirement home where he can be loved and spent time with,  as his owner has passed away and Odo was no longer wanted around.  Gerdy took him into her care as he is a dear and gentle boy who is not ready to be euthanized for age. 

He still enjoys his walks, and loves car rides, actually he behaves like a dog much younger—but he is very gentle and content just to be with his person, lying near.  He has the spark of playfulness in him even though Odo is almost deaf, he does not feel sorry for himself but looks to new adventures.

This is one lovable boy!!  Very good with other friendly, gentle dogs and cats, Odo would do best in a home with adults, as kids might be too rough with him.  He is a real gentleman dog!  Easy to be around, and super affectionate, loves to be fussed over. 

He would be a delight to a retired person or couple who had the time for him.  We need someone who spends time at home rather than leaving him alone all day, being deaf, he likes to see someone around him to give him confidence.  He is a rare taupe colour and has a wonderful conformation, very distinguished and cheerful boy!

Neutered, he is up to date on his shots, heartworm tested negative, Revolution started, flea & parasite free.  Good strong heart!  Can you be Odo’s adored person and make his life meaningful again?

He might not hear much of what you say, but he sure can feel a loving touch, and gives affection back tenfold!

"Dear Gerdy,

I adopted  Odo last fall, after having him stay with us since July 2008...He is my best friend, and has settled into our home very well ..As I write this he is laying beside me on the sofa, pushing his head into my leg!!!! He is so affectionate and loving...He is such a gentleman.....everywhere we walk, people come up to me to tell me how beautiful he is, and how he is such a great standard poodle...Odo loves the attention, and I wonder if he was in show before you rescues him, as he has a full wardrobe of coats and costumes and shoes!!!! He so loves wearing it all that everyone is amazed!!!!

He has brought so much love into my life, and is my favorite companion..>We enjoy walking as much as we can all through the Old Port in Montréal. He stays by himself well when I go to work, and is very well behaved. I've been growing his hair and getting him groomed as well as doing it myself, so he has a fine stylish coat now!!!!!! Definitely a good doggie for a hairstylist. I am attaching some pictures from Halloween and Christmas!!!!

Thank you so much, I love Odo very much!!!!!

Andrea"

Aptly-named Pumpkin was found running in a pumpkin field beside a highway. She was very thin and appeared to have had puppies. After much searching the person into whose car she jumped could find no sign of them. We suspect she may have been dumped along the highway. This Lab X is a very sweet natured and gentle young lady, about 1-2 years old. A quick learner, she has a wonderful disposition and would make a great family pet.

"Hello Gerdy,

Just a quick note to let you know that Pumpkin, now Keena, and I are doing really well. We had a lesson last Sunday which went amazingly well. Keena now comes on command which is a godsend for me. She is doing very well heeling when we walk, and is learning to lie down quite well. She loves other dogs and people and is house trained. She has put on some weight and is quite the looker! I love Keena very much."

Mercedes

This grey Domestic Shorthair is about 3 years old. This is a courtesy listing for a gentleman who has been feeding this cat outside in the cold, he is not allowed cats in his apartment building, yet he cannot bear to see Shadow outside suffering, he has had him neutered with 1 vaccine. 

Please contact us if you are willing to help give a good home to this cat, he is a sweet fellow and very affectionate—PLEASE help get one more off the street to safety.

"Hi Gerdy,
 
I thought you should know that Shadow is now Smokey and is one of the nicest cats ever to enter my home!  He has yet to meet his brothers and sisters since he is still a bit unnerved with the changes in his life.  However, I know he is starting to relax since he throws himself on his back for a tummy rub every time I enter my guest room! 

Thx Gerdy!"

Compassionate Placement

Hello! I am a 3 year old member of the Mastiff family, my breed name is Fila Brasileiro, I’m a girl and I weigh about 109 pounds. I am a Gentle Giant with a very nice nature. Due to my size, I need someone used to handling a big dog—a REALLY big dog! My owner is not well and cannot look after me anymore, but he was devoted and kind to me and gave me a wonderful life.

I am spayed and up to date on my shots and what I need. But I do need your help. X-rays have revealed some potential joint problems that I will eventually need pain meds for most likely. But with good  loving care we can share a wonderful life. As a mature dog, you can see my wonderful qualities, I am a big kid at heart!

"Hello Judy and Gerdy,

How are you two ladies doing? I wanted to update you about Jessy and I. We are doing great. Jessy is adapting to me working nights. Sleeps all night any how and as long as I let her have an hour or so on the front porch, while I read the paper, she is happy while I sleep in the day time. Jessy just loves the front porch, sits and watches the world go by and dozes off now and then, I think just to trick the world into thinking she is not watching.

I have gotten her a harness, to replace the choke collar and she really likes it. Walks really well on it and and just can't wait to put it on knowing that it means a walk or some sort of outside activity including the front porch.

Gary, Carol and I have taken her to the beach and she loves walking in the water and splashing up to her knees.

Lets just say she is the best thing to ever happen to me. All my freinds and family just love her as well. Gets on well with my landlord as well and she made him a little nervous at first, but again she has won him over. Calls her Pookums. Not too diginfied I thnk but she doesn't mind it.

Will talk to you again soon. Oh yeah and we are on the heartworm, started in May on the 15th as per directions.

Keep in touch,

Anne and Jessy"

This sweet compact, 8 month old female AMERICAN Cocker Spaniel was dumped at a shelter when she outgrew her wee puppy looks.  She is a lovely dog, purebred, friendly and very playful.  Her shiny curly coat is very healthy and beautiful. 

Spayed, shots up to date, heartworm tested negative, defleaed & dewormed, just in case—this happy pup is ready for her forever home!  Gets along with other friendly dogs too!

"Hi there Gerdy and Judy,

Happy New Year from Charlie and her family. We had a great holiday and Charlie was spoiled rotten with all the love she got from her adopted sisters!!!! We are having a great time with her. She is gentle, sweet, lovable, and very clever. I have taught her to give a paw and to drop to the floor when I point and say "Bang, bang". Rather funny to see her and she keeps an eye open to see the treat - what a glutton. She tears around the backyard like a house on fire- the snow just flies.

We play hide and seek and she is comical when she cannot find you as the ears almost go up- yeah right on a spaniel... Obedience school was a positive experience as she loves to meet other dogs but since the snow has fallen, she has forgotten how to heel- she wants to run like a deer through the snow. That will be cured with time and Spring!!

So I just wanted to tell you that we are extremely happy with our little dog. She had brought much life and happiness into our home not to mention that I have lost fourteen pounds since she arrived due to our walks - best weight programme going!!!

Thank you Gerdy for having found her and all the best in the new year to you and your crew of helpers.

Cathy and family"

A 3-year old Shitzu, Happy truly is a happy little fellow.  What would make him even happier would be to find a home again willing to spoil him and love him.

"Dear Gerdy,

On Sept. 25th, Happy and I will celebrated our one year anniversary. Even thought we have spoken on several occasions, I thought I would send this note and include some pictures. As you know, I experienced a death in the family that left me living on my own. Without that sweet little dog, I don't think I could have made it. Happy is the most loving dog. He sleeps in my bed at night. In the morning when I wake, he jumps in my lap and we share lots of hugs and kisses (he is a great kisser). I love him so much that I can't bear to leave him alone when I have to go out, and try to take him with me as much as I can. Everywhere we go, people stop to admire him.

I recently took up knitting and have already made him a doggie blanket and a sweater for the winter. Here is a picture of him modeling it. Of course he already has tons of coats and sweaters, as well as collars,leashes, toys etc.

Once again, I wish to thank you for giving me this wonderful boy, who is as good, gentle and kind as he is cute and lovable. I will always be grateful for this gift. You aptly named him Happy. He is, and so am I."