Tales to Tell Archive / Des histoires à raconter
 

All the cats and dogs with Happy Endings have found loving, caring homes with the help of Gerdy's Rescues & Adoptions. Listed below is an archive of the letters we've received from past adoptees and their familes.

To go back even further in the Tales to Tell archives, click on: PAGE 3

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  Tinsol  
     
   

What a difference a bit of time makes in  security, love, and confidence-building—Tinsol has come out of his shell and has BLOOMED into a GEM of a little dog—confident and friendly to all, not a mean bone, playful, loves to cuddle and be kissed! 

You’d never know this was once a 2 ½ year old dog who lived alone  in the  garage because of a person’s allergy in the home, AND he is well on his way with house-training too!  He LOVES playing with other friendly small dogs and kids!  He can be a little clown too!  He is a HAPPY DOG now, a NORMAL POOCH!!  

Tinsol had to be shaved way down as his coat was so matted and uncared for, when it grows out again he will have back his soft curls.  A mix of Mini Schnauzer and likely Mini Poodle, he is a joy to have around.

Neutered, heartworm tested negative, vaccines updated —bordatella, Max 5, Rabies, dewormed, no fleas.  Tinsol is ready to shine in your heart!

    
  Adopted  
   
   

"Hi Gerdy,

I just wanted to provide you with an update on Tinsol. He has come along way! He only nips now when he gets overly excited and you can usually get him to stop by asking for kisses. He has also learned how to go to the bathroom without sitting down and making a mess, and through careful observation of his mentor, Murphy, lifts his leg without tipping over!

My other dogs, Zoey and Murphy, adjusted to his arrival fairly quickly and although there have been moments of jealousy he certainly added some youthful enthusiasm into the mix. Unfortunately, Murphy passed away in late November and has left us with broken hearts but it has been a relief to have Tinsol to keep Zoey company. 

Gerdy, thank you for rescuing Tinsol.  Allowing me to foster him and then to trust his care to me permanently has enriched my life immeasurably. It’s taken almost a year of nurturing him to turn him around but we just adore him and I think he’s pretty confident in his big boy status in the family.

He loves to play with my daughters and their friends, go for long walks, and end the evening with a cuddle on the couch. He’s very funny and has quite the collection of socks and towels gathered in his play area. Every morning he goes room to room and wakes us up with his cold little nose and trots off quite happy with himself. He knows now that he’s home.

Gerdy you introduced me to Zoey, nine years ago, Murphy showed up at our door six years ago (when I turned him into the SPCA to be reclaimed they were going to euthanize him because of bad teeth - so I immediately adopted him) and Tinsol a year ago, and all I can say is THANK YOU! This motley crew has brought our family nothing but laughs and love.

All the best,

Deirdre

I have attached a few pictures of the gang!"

    
 

 

  
  Liam  
     
   

This handsome and dear 2 ½ year old IRISH WOLFHOUND was seen thrown out of a car by the side of a road, by a woman who subsequently saved him and took him to a pound, where Gerdy’s got him out.

He was saved from becoming a roadside statistic, the fate of many dogs abandoned along highways.  Liam is such a sweet, friendly boy, good walking on leash, and very gentle.  He seems to know his size and is careful not to step on children!  He is a thin 117 pounds. 

Neutered, vaccinated Max 5, Rabies, & Bordatella. Heartworm tested negative, dewormed, no fleas. A very happy Gentle Giant, we seek a Irish Wolfhound experienced family for this dear boy who travels well by car, sleeping on the whole back seat! 

He is a lover, not a fighter, -- so typical of this breed.

    
  Adopted  
   
 

"Bonjour Gerdy,

Joyeuses fêtes à toi et ta famille et surtout pour tous les membre de Gerdy Rescue. Liam va très bien. Un chien adorable. Maggie l'aime beaucoup aussi - les deux s'amuses dehors dans la cour pendant des heures.

Liam croit vraiment qu'il est petit. Il veut souvent s'assoir sur nous. C'est drôle. Il aime bien la bouffe. Jusqu'a present, je me suis fait volé un hot dog, une pointe de pizza et un morceau de pain. Nous oublions qu'il est grand et que le comptoir est  facile d'acces pour lui. Il a beaucoup d'amour à donner.

Ca donne bien. Nous en avons beaucoup à lui donner. Bref. Nous sommes vraiiiiiiiiment heureux que tu as choisi notre famille pour ce chien. Voici quelques photos pour ton happy trail.

Haapy New Year!"

  
     
  Sushi  
     
   

This darling girl is a baby BEAGLE tri-colour who  was born on August 6, 2010.  She was brought to one of our vets suffering from a BROKEN LEG and was going to be euthanized, so Gerdy took her on. 

She has her little leg in a cast, and is supposed to be kept quiet in a small crate as her leg heals, so whoever adopts her has to continue this as it is important that her leg heal properly. 

Sushi loves to cuddle, and LOVES cats, kids, and dogs, -- not a mean bone in her little body.  Whoever adopts this little sweetie has to realize that she is a baby, she needs someone home during the day to take her to eliminate, then back in her crate, til the vet says she can be active again. 

She will be vaccinated and spayed, dewormed  by Gerdy’s Rescues and that will be included in the adoption fee.  Her new home HAS to have a secure fence for later on, and as she is a pup, not an apartment or condo in case she cries. 

This is one sweet girl who deserves a chance granted by an Earth Angel who will take her on as a forever home.

UPDATE:

She is 13 weeks today...and her leg is doing great! Dr.Renaud took xrays today and its almost healed so she now has a half cast and if all goes well it in 2 weeks no cast at all!!

    
  Adopted  
   
 

"Bonjour Gerdy,

Merci encore pour tout, elle va très bien. Sa patte arrière est complètement guéri et elle s’assoie normalement. Elle a grandie depuis 3 semaines. Notre petit démon est très active. Elle aime jouer dans la neige et avec ses jouets. Elle demande la porte maintenant et nous sommes très heureux de sont évolution.

Je vous envoie quelques photos. Les no17 et no20 sont d’aujourd’hui.

Pierre et moi aimerions vous souhaitez de passer une belle période des fêtes avec votre famille.  Santé, bonheur et prospérité mais surtout moins d’animaux délaissés et mal traités.

Claudette et Pierre"		  
     
 
  Jack  
     
   

 

    
  Adopted  
     
 

"Hi Gerdy.

Firstly I want to wish you a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2011. I have got to say when Jack entered our life I really didn't know what hit us. He has been a handful and full of engery... At first we really did not know whether we could keep him as he was uncontrolable. He arrived on January 10th 2010. On December 10th its Harley's 1 year Anniversary of his passing.

You know Gerdy Jack has been a pain in the A...... but we are so blessed to have him . I never thought we would make it with him, he is so smart, loving, a huge big baby and after taking him to Doggie training he is really trying hard. I want to thankyou from the bottom of my heart.

You made the right  call to Avril to call us.. Jack is a blessing, he loves Zoe. They say time heals. Jack has been the healer of a broken heart and you Gerdy are that Angel that gave him to us. The work and dedication you give inspire others to give good homes to these lost dogs... I would like to give you a donation for 2011, can I mail it to you.. could you send me your address.....  many thanks you are our Sweetheart  Jenny and Steve Butler    Jack and Zoe boxer dogs...   

Gerdy thank you for saving me and giving me a home I may be a little crazy but Mom and Dad still love unconditionally.

Love Jack xoxoxo"

  
     
  Pixel (aka Peaches)  
     
   

Peaches is a story of struggle and success.  She is a slight 8 year old Shih X / Yorkie who has lived unimaginable hardships in her life.  She was abandoned and horribly neglected who found herself struggling to survive in a shelter environment.  She did not pass adoption.   However she sought refuge with a rescue who would ensure her safety and a promised future. 

For Peaches this was yet another disappointment as no rescue would help her due to an abundance of medical issues.  Gerdy’s Rescue and Adoptions did not hesitate however, to try and alleviate Peaches from further hardships.  They took her on as a Gerdy’s Dog!

Peaches body spoke volumes but her spirit remained pure and loving.  It was apparent that Peaches was very ill as she was unusually thin, her nails curled, her fur matted and unhealthy, her teeth hanging loosely from her gums and an extended belly.  It was apparent that this girl had been breed for years without giving her a chance to re-cuperate.  It was equally noted that she was in discomfort and distress.  She was immediately admitted to the hospital to stabilize her and investigate whatever it was that ailed her.  It was not long before it became apparent that Peaches was pregnant and required immediate life-saving surgery.

Peaches was ready to deliver, however whatever she was breed with was larger,  as the pups could not be delivered normally.  To everyone’s horror, Peaches had a breached pup who could not pass through her birthing canal.  Two other pups were already malformed and died in her little body.  The fourth pup was barely viable and was unable to survive.  All 4 pups perished as she was too old and too weak to sustain them.  Peaches was spayed so she would never go through another pregnancy.  She was given her vaccines, was heartworm tested negative and is on Revolution.  Dewormed and defleaed.

The second problem for Peaches was her inability to eat. Peaches had only 8 teeth left which were impossible to salvage except for two.  Her doctor explained that Peaches has probably never known a pain free life as even her ears were badly infected.  Her teeth were extracted as necessary, and her ears treated with antibiotics.

With the necessary medical attention, tender loving care and commitment, Peaches is thriving.  She is living in a foster home with 1 foster canine sister and 5 feline friends.  She is now a happy dog, living life to the fullest, playing with toys and enjoying her walks with many canine companions.

Peaches is an inspiration to us all, but most of all a reminder that this is happening everyday to our fur companions.

Peaches is a wonderful little girl who eagerly waits for a new family to enforce how important she really is.  Peaches has taught so many that though life has obstacles, but ones spirit can overcome all odds.  And PEACHES is the MOST LOVING little girl imaginable who loves a good cuddle, is quiet, and yet playful, very social, with a cheery little face and eyes that shine with happiness!

    
  Adopted  
   
   
   

"Hi Auntie Gerdy,

I don’t know where to begin. I’ve been with my new mommy and brother for 2 months now, it seems like I’ve lived here forever!!  At first I was really scared; there were so many new things. That elevator thingy made me really nervous and I didn’t like those big things that were zooming all around us while we were out on our walks. I got so scared sometimes that I couldn't move and mommy would have to carry me. But after a while I got used to everything and now I’m really brave.

I race Spencer to the elevator, noises outside don’t scare me anymore and I even let strangers pet me and I don’t mind!  Spencer has been a great big brother. He’s really patient and doesn’t get mad when I steal his toys or his treats or his space on the couch. He even lets me curl up with him on his blanket (I like that).  Mommy takes us to the dog park everyday. I love to be there in the sun with so many people to cuddle me. I also like to chase after Spencer and see what he’s up to. 

The bigger dogs in the park don’t scare me at all ‘cuz I showed them who’s boss.  I don’t let them get in my face (never underestimate the power of a good growl). I also pee lots of times with my leg up and kick up lots of dirt afterwards just like the best of the boys. Okay, so I’m not a boy, but they don’t have to know that!!  My hair has also been growing in thicker and my muscles are developing; just last week I started to be able to get out of mommy’s big car all by myself!  So I'm really happy and doing great.

I guess I just wanted to say thank-you so much for saving me, for taking care of me and for finding me a forever family. I will never forget you.  Oh – mommy says make sure to thank Auntie Joy for doing such a wonderful job with me, especially with my housetraining. I only had two accidents the first few days and that was it; everyone was so proud!

My love to all,

Pixel (and Naomi)"

    
 
 
   

"Hi Everyone,

I’m delighted to tell all of you that Pixel is doing much better already.  ( note:  Pixel, formerly PEACHES was diagnosed with cancer recently and treated)  The medication was kicking in by the 4th day – she was perkier, more alert and eating again. The best part is that she is back to normal bowel movements – since the 3rd night not a sign of diarrhea and no more accidents in the house. That alone is a huge relief (for both of us).

We had our follow up with the oncologist today. Pixel’s albumin level (protein) has gone from 13 up to 18. We’re aiming for over 30 but still its great improvement for just two weeks. Her platelet count is still quite elevated, but not as much as before so again, improvement. The new course of action is still the chemo pills every second day and cutting the prednisone down to ½ a pill a day for 10 days, then ½ a pill every second day.  So still a mild, low-key treatment.

In fact the oncologist says the treatment he is doing is more similar to what he would do for a cat than a dog. Evidently gastro-intestinal lymphoma is generally a cat disease. Either way the doc says we don’t have to come back for another 6 weeks and if things are still progressing the next follow-up will be as far as 3 months down the road.

I am sooooooooo happy! 

So, my tiny little dot is also a tough little cookie. At this point she is back to wolfing down anything and everything she can get her mouth near (including the medication), is stealing things from Spencer again and there is a little spring back in her step on our walks (she looks so cute bouncing along the snowy paths). Although I know what the inevitable outcome will be, I think she plans to be around a little longer than originally anticipated.

Thanks so much for all the kind words sent our way.

Naomi

PS - most recent pic from a few nights ago attached. Spence says "awoo woo" to all of you and wants you to know he's not being neglected in all this."

    
 

 

  
  Riley (aka Pele)  
     
   

Pele was named after a famous soccer player—but he does not play soccer!  Fetch with a ball, yes!  A GREAT retriever, in fact, but Pele is more of  an animal activist-- having not been trained to point, and being gun shy!  Pele is an English Shorthair Pointer, a family pet,  and VERY GENTLE!  A beautiful 2 ½ year-old boy, both in his heart and to look at—not a mean bone and HOUSETRAINED.

He responds to affection with sheer devotion, and all he wants is a family to love and who will love him back all his life.  Very good with children and extremely social with other dogs.  He loves to play tug of war with a rope toy, but loves best to be next to his master—sometimes it seems he is trying to communicate!  Used to car travel, is very calm and an excellent traveler, settles down to sleep.

He is a delightful wuss!  And that face—you will love him right away, those eyes will melt your heart!   He has one fault—he does not heel very well, but likes to pull on his leash—even tho he knows what “heel” means!  But you can work on that!   His family are moving from a house to an apartment, where they do not accept dogs.  Pele is neutered, shots updated, etc.  Pele is a national treasure and so is OUR Pele!

    
  Adopted  
   
   

"Happy Holidays to Gerdy’s Rescue and all the volunteers! 

I am especially excited about the holidays this year, thanks to the help from all of you involved in rescuing and caring for Riley (once known as Pelé).  A special thank you to Gerdy for rescuing him, to Sandra and her boyfriend for caring for him until we found each other, and to Averil, for helping with the perfect matchmaking and answering all my questions I’ve had since I picked him up from Sandra’s Spa on October 15th!! 

Riley and I have had a blast getting to know each other, as well as all the amazing beaches and parks around where we live.  He is the most gentle, friendly and loyal pet I could ever hope for!  I am happy to say that he has gained 5 pounds since I got him, and his coat is nice and shiny and soft.  Thank you once again, to all of you that made Riley and I possible.  We really appreciate what you do!! 

Thank you and Merry Christmas!!!!"

    
 

 

  
  Stanley  
     
   

I am proud to say that I am a 30 lbs collie/husky mix pup  6 months of age and though I have husky in my blood, I am more Collie in temperament.    I have not had the best life up until Gerdy took me and my buddy Kevin and pretty Maggie in.  I have learned to walk perfectly on leash, I can sit and lie down when asked. 

I love to play ball and at the dog park I stay close to my foster mom’s side.  I will bond very quickly to my new people as I want so much to be part of family. My foster mom keeps a very clean home which has shown me that they way I lived was not the norm. Now I am learning to ask for the door to do my ‘thing’, food is in abundance and my crate is my refuge when I am alone. 

I am a puppy so I do require some further training but I learn awfully quick.  I have a foster brother named Maddox who is teaching me the ropes, and I am pleased to announce that he has shown me how to use the stairs…up and down.  I am a very happy, fun loving puppy that loves other dogs and I would be great with older children as well.  I do have foster felines that I have never known before, and although I do chase them in play, I mean them no harm at all – now tell that to the cats!  So – I still have my training wheels on, and learning what is appropriate with the cats and what is not.  All in good time I guess.

I would love to start my life off brand new and fresh. If you think I can fit into your pack, please give me a second look.  I am handsome, comical, loving boy just looking to find a special place in your heart.  Until then, don’t forget my name – it’s Stan the Man!

Stanley is fully vaccinated, neutered, de-fleaed just in case, dewormed,  and in perfect health.

    
  Adopted  
   
 

"Hi Gerdy and Judy:

Sorry we have taken so long to give you an update on Stanley (name worked for him, so we kept it), it has been a busy six and a half months since he came into our lives.  He is now a part of our family and we love him like crazy.

We have done a few obedience classes with him (at Guides Canin in St Lazare, great place) and he has also learned many tricks, he is very bright and eager to please (especially when there is food involved!).  He recently received his “Good Neighbour, Good Manners” certificate and was a star on the obstacle course with our daughter Madison during his final exam.  We think he is a good candidate for agility training, we will look into that in the summer.  He was also a model for a young up-and-coming pet photographer (she has his picture on her business card, see attached) so his good looks may provide him with a career!

He has come a long way from his difficult start in life and is improving all the time.  We are dealing with his separation and confinement anxiety issues (we are getting help from Dr Enid Stiles at Sherwood Park Animal Hospital) but feel it is only a matter of time before he is comfortable at home on his own.  He hasn’t eaten the Christmas tree yet, so that is a good thing.....

We saw that Stanley and his co-rescues were mentioned in your recent news letter so I knew it was time to give you an update.  We appreciate the amazing work you do and it seems that the demand for organizations like yours is ever increasing.

Thanks very much and Merry Christmas and all the best for 2011.

Lynne, Marshall and Madison Don"

  
     
  Winston  
     
   

Hi, I am a 2 year-old Boxer/English Bulldog mix, oh I am SO friendly, I sat on a chair while waiting my turn at the vets, much to the amusement of everyone there! 

I am SUPER-FRIENDLY! At 70 pounds,   I am neutered, heartworm tested negative, vaccinated for Bordatella, Max 5, and Rabies, dewormed, no fleas.  Gentle, I will be a good family dog. And I am playful too!  You will love me for sure.

I was abandoned and am looking for someone to love forever.  I am obedient and a real joy!		    
  Adopted  
   
   

"Hi Gerdy,
 
I just wanted to let you know how Rocky (Winston) is doing. Winston came into our life in March 2010, poor dog was sick but Gerdy made everything possible to make him well. Today he is perfectly healthy and the best dog in the world.

I have never met a dog so loving, so gentle and so obedient. Were so happy to have him and can't imagine our life without him. He loves everyone, kids, adults, dogs and cats.

Even with his 70 pounds rugged look, he hasn't met anyone yet he couldn't charm even people who are scared of dogs. He doesn't have one mean bone in him, he's like a big teddy bear with a great heart. 

I recommend everyone to adopt from Gerdy, I tell everyone about you and what a great cause you do and how devoted you are.  

You’re the best, I think you're a real Saint, this world would be a much better place if there were more people like you.
 
Really thankful to have this great dog, he brings us so much happiness in our every day lives...
 
Wish you a great Xmas and a great new year to you and all the people that help your organization exist.
 
XOXOX
 
Carol & Nicholas"

    
 

 

  
  Lenny (aka Cado)  
     
   

Here I am, CADO, 62 pounds of love and 1 year old!  I had been abandoned by my owner and found by the city. 

I am likely a Black Lab/Golden Retriever mix—and I have striking ORANGE eyes!  Playful and affectionate, I need some obedience training, but I am a real smart dog so will learn fast!  I am happy-go-lucky and a good family dog especially for older children or teens.   

Neutered, vaccinated Bordatella, Max 5, Rabies—dewormed, heartworm tested negative, no fleas.  I love people and have a sense of humour—I will  get you to laugh at my antics to get your attention!

I will keep you in good spirits and health—after all, a CADO a day keeps the doctor away!

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hello Judy and Gerdy,

We have decided that we would like to adopt cado who we've named Lenny.

Lenny is an absolute sweetheart. He is well socialized with dogs, humans and children of all ages. He is a big lap dog. Lenny is smart and is eager to please.

We have started training with him formally on Wedensday and will continue for the next seven weeks and thereafter because it is good mental stimulation for him. He loves it. Leash walking is a challenge, but he'll master it in no time.

We have attached a picture of him sitting on my chair while I (Batia) meditate while sitting on the carpet.

Thank you for saving him and trusting us to provide him with a good home.

Batia & Kate"

    
 
 
   
   

"Hello Gerdy and Judy,

In the five weeks since we brought Lenny home (formerly Cado), he has adapted very nicely to his new life with us, and we with him. Lenny is a handsome, 62-pound charmer. We immediately enrolled him into canine clicker training classes.

Although he appeared not to have any previous training at all, he loves the new structure and the attention. Although he is older than most of the dogs in his class (approximately 1.5 years old), he learns very, very quickly. Even his teacher is impressed by how quickly he learns.

Lenny now has his buddies at the dog park and he looks forward to his daily outings. He plays well with dogs and puppies alike. He runs like a gazelle with a big smile on his face. What is also really nice is the fact that he has adapted well to leash-walking - in fact, his pulling has been reduced to a bare minimum.

He is great in the house, loves adults and children and is simply a joy to be around. We really lucked out!

Thanks to you both for providing the photo and profile of "Cado" that piqued our curiosity.

Batia and Kate

Ottawa"		    
 

 

  
  Billy Joe  
     
   

Billy Joe is looking for a special home!!

This 9 year old Mr Charming, was taken to a shelter when his master took very ill.  Billy Joe was just lost without his master in his life.  Ever faithful, this wonderful CALM boy of 97 pounds (needs a diet & exercise program!) put total trust in the Gerdy’s team to help him find his forever home for his retirement years.  You will not be sorry!  This exceptional boy is calm with people, other friendly dogs, as well as cats. 

He has a very intelligent face, old soul eyes that are interested in all around him, and eager expression to learn more from life.  What an exceptional buddy he will be, appreciating nice walks, watching tv, curling up to good music, or just hanging out lovingly and devotedly—this is a GREAT dog in the tradition of Lassie as he is a Rough Collie crossed with Bernese Mountain Dog we think, a Big Boy more resembling the Collie heritage with Bernese size.  

Billy Joe knows he won’t be around forever, but he is ready to make someone very truly contented who takes him on.  Very good in the car as well and housetrained.  Beautiful colouring, he is a real redhead on top of his head!  Long hair that yes, needs brushing, we will have him groomed as he likely will need extensive mats removed as his master was unable to keep him brushed.  We will have that done, ready to start his new life. 

Neutered, up to date on his vaccines, Max 5, Rabies, and Bordatella, heartworm tested negative, dewormed & no fleas.  Is Billy Joe the soulmate you have been seeking?

    
  Adopted  
     
  "Gerdy & Judy  .................  Hello from Douglastown (Gaspe)!!!!!!
 
I know you both must have been thinking about Billy Joe these past few days, so I Just wanted to send along a little update.
 
Billy Joe arrived at his forever home Friday afternoon, safe & sound- after a very long drive.  The drive took me longer than usual, as I stopped every 3 hours or so, for Billy Joe to get out & stretch his legs, have a toilet break, and some water. He was unbelieveable in the truck  -- never heard from him, he is an amazing traveller. 
 
He is doing surprisingly well, even wanted to play yesterday with the cats ball!!!!!!!!!  So, I am off to the pet store this afternoon, to buy him a toy or 2 of his own.
 
He has already exceeded my expectations - he seems to be a very wonderful fellow!!!!!
 
And just one last note for now ........ there is a mutual admiration society here with Billy Joe & my husband, they are starting off to be really good pals......... FANTASTIC
Thats it for now - all is well.   
 
Sincerely,
 
Willa"		  
 
 
   
 

"Hello Gerdy & Judy,

It was 1 year ago today that BILLY JOE was adopted into our family & since then, he has adopted us also!!!!!!!

So glad to report that he  settled into his forever home so smoothly & is totally living up to the nickname you gave him as "MR. CHARMING!!!!!!  
 
He is a gentle old fellow & has become quite the faithful companion-- he turned 10 years old two weeks ago & is  always so eager to please............  glad to report that all is welll & that we are all doing  just great!!!"

  
     
  Jessie  
     
   

It was Jessie’s lucky day when the pound called Gerdy that they did not want to put down this treasure, but get her into a rescue.  None could be found to take her, Gerdy’s was the last one called, and Gerdy was only too happy to take this girl under her wing.  Jessie is a lovely girl, a Border Collie weighing 46 pounds and estimated around a year old. 

Jessie is very intelligent, knows her commands sit, lay down, give the paw, and sit pretty.  She is friendly to other nice dogs, untested with cats but we are optimistic she would be ok with them as well.  She has the most striking orange-brown eyes!!   Loves people, a relaxed dog,  calm nature for a Border Collie,-- a real nice family dog with not a mean bone in her.  Jessie was found wandering a country road, dirty, with no ID.  She went unclaimed until she reached the end of her time left, likely a dump. 

Jessie will be spayed, Max 5, Rabies, & Bordatella vaccines given, dewormed, no fleas, heartworm tested negative.  This dear girl is going to make some lucky family very proud to call her their own!

    
  Adopted  
   
   

"Hello Gerdy,

Some pictures for your TALES TO TELL section Jessie before and after her session with the dog salon, and a couple of her with step -sister Maggie!

Alan and Diane"		    
 

 

  
  Bogey  
     
   

Well Bogey has it all!!  Charm, personality, character, companionship --all wrapped up in a body designed by a committee!!  He may be a Brussels Griffon OR just an odd PUG Mix—either way, he is a one-of -a -kind guy. 

At 16 pounds, he is just a nice size to handle.  He has a wiry-wavy coat, and smooth ears on top, with a Mohawk of black hair on top of his head!  Complete with moustache and beard, bug eyes, and a turned up nose with a pug chin and mouth!  A curly wiry tail sums up the rear. 

Bogey is VERY social with friendly dogs, seems ok with the foster’s cats, and LOVES to play with his toys, especially choosing one at a time from a toy collection!    Not possessive of toys or food, he is ready to be picked up and carried at any time.  LOVES his walks.  Settles down well in his crate.  Loves the car.    Bogey is 1 year and 5 months old, and was given up by his owner for reasons not to do with Bogey.  Not a mean bone, he is handsome and loving  in an ET or New Moon  way! 

Bogey has his Max 5, Rabies, & Bordatella vaccines up to date, also Rabies.  Dewormed, no fleas, he is also neutered.  Solid guy, not neurotic in the least, Bogey knows who he is!  And likes himself, INSIDE and OUT! Bogey would like to play a starring role in your life story, Schweetheart. 

    
  Adopted  
   

"Dear Gerdie & Judy,

You may remember that I adopted Bogey, a pug / terrier mix, last December in Hudson.

The evening that Bogey came home with me, my good friend Jim (and fellow dog lover) came to dinner.  He looked at Bogey who was sprawled out on the couch, sleeping peacefully and declared, “He looks quite pleased with his new arrangements!”  Two days later, Jim passed away out of the blue – I don’t know what I would have done without Bogey – as I often say, “I didn’t rescue him, he rescued me.”

I can assure you that it would be hard to find a dog who is having a better life than Bogey!  He goes with me everywhere (see attached photo in his “doggles”) – he cross-country skied with me all winter, hiked with me in the spring and has been scampering in the woods/swimming in the lake/biking with me all summer. 

What most impresses me is that he is exactly how you described him on your web site:  he loves his toys (one at a time!), is great with other animals (except for the tail biting thing…LOL), adores being in the car and is the sweetest thing since sugar.  (He’s also the neighbourhood mascot – I have no shortage of “Bogey-sitters.)  I can’t imagine my life without him…

Thank you for the work that you do – I am very happy to have been able to take on a dog who was in need and I wanted you to know that he is definitely playing a starring role in my life story!

Kind regards,

Clare"		    
 
 
   

"Dear Gerdy & Judy,

I can’t believe it’s been a year since I adopted Bogey…it’s flown by and if it’s even possible, he’s more spoiled than the last update I sent you!  I wanted to let you know that he is doing very well – in fact, I am now able to take him to work with me each day (previously I had an employee who was allergic to dogs) where he entertains the entire staff (and half the floor).  Too fun.

We still walk/run/ski/bike every morning in the woods for an hour- he is quite the social butterfly.  Even though he’s the smallest dog of the regulars, he obviously never got the memo that he’s small dog – quite comical how he lets the bigger guys know who’s in charge.

I will always be grateful for that day that I Googled “Pug/Terrier Montreal” and up he (and you) popped.  He is truly the sweetest most adorable dog I have ever met.  Even though his first year might not have been so great, I can assure you that his next 20 years will be amazing.

Here’s looking at you sweetheart!!!

Clare"		    
 

 

  
  Raven  
     
   

Compassionate Placement

Raven is a very sweet and loving 9-month-old domestic semi long-hair cat.  She has a story to tell;-- a story of courage, compassion and luck following a horrific ordeal at the hands of man.  A compassionate and caring person contacted the shelter to advise them that a cat was in distress.  Someone had intentionally tied a plastic bag over her head and around her neck by which the pressure resulted in one eye popping. 

Due to the medical costs involved, Raven was put into rescue status in hopes that someone would take on her care and expense of treating. Gerdy immediately embraced this little wonder, and will do whatever necessary to ensure that Raven will be medically cared for.  Raven will lose her eye; however she seems to have adapted very well with the lose of vision in this eye.  She is a gentle warrior; a survivor.

Raven will be spayed, fully vaccinated.   Raven deserves to live her life with a loving family who will pamper and love her forever, because, to add to her woes, she was tested positive for Feline AIDS.  She is gentle however, and can after her spay, live with other cats.  But we’d prefer she was an only cat to soak up all the love she can to make up for her life afflictions. 
 
YOUR ATTENTION PLEASE!!

Raven reminds us that everyday there are tragic events that happen to cats that are left outdoors to roam free.  Many fall victim to pregnancy, starvation, fatal diseases, victims of prey, and deliberate abuse by man.  Raven is a loving soul who has forgiven humans and is ready to move on to enjoy her remaining 8 lives.

If you are not prepared to adopt and you wish to help us help Raven, we are currently fundraising to offset her medical expenses.  All donations will go directly to Raven’s care.  On behalf of our little princess, we thank you for reading Raven’s story of survival.

FROM GERDY

Raven and Gerdy’s Rescues would like to thank Louise Landry who so kindly donated for her continuing care. Raven still seeks a home of her own, but is grateful to be thought of as she waits.

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hey Judy and Gerdy,

I just wanted to give you an update on Raven. She's doing very well, and we've very much settled in with one another. She's made a habit of sleeping in my bed at night. The first night, she kept waking me up...but she's since gotten a lot more patient about that and usually lets me sleep, but keeps very close by.

She still doesn't understand why pay so much attention to the odd, glowing box (the computer) for long periods of time, and would often complain about that. But I set up a second chair next to the computer desk, with a blanket, and she leaps up on that and seems content to be level with me while I work (see picture).

She's eating her food well, but oddly has had no interest in any of my food (I sometimes offer her a little piece of chicken or tuna, but she doesn't seem interested). She's finally figured out what the scratching post is for and uses it alot. She's also done well with other people and remains about the cuddliest cat I've ever met.

Take care,

Joshua"

    
 

 

  
  Kiely (aka Cowboy)  
     
   

This is one of the dearest dogs ever!  At about 9 to 10 months old, this 51 pound sensitively sweet boy was seen by the side of a busy highway, confused, scared, and desperately looking for his person—but he looked in vain, because the person he trusted more than anyone else in his world had apparently pushed him out of the car and drove away, leaving him with a bruised shoulder.

As he limped along, trying to run up to passing cars, a woman saw his predicament and stopped her car, and he bounded into it,  his desperate attempt to reach some security from all he could not understand.  Gerdy was called and took Cowboy under her wing, promising him a new family who would never do that to him but would love him all his life.  Cowboy is a black and white mix, maybe with a bit of Border Collie/Lab  but the rest is anyone’s guess—he is a Designer original with the most expressive face!

Now neutered, shots, heartworm tested negative, no fleas or worms, on Revolution for heartworm prevention as are all Gerdy’s dogs, Cowboy is ready to ride happily into the sunset with you.

    
  Adopted  
   
   

"Hi Gerdy & Judy,

One of my neighbors has one of Gerdy's dogs.  I don't know when he adopted her but it is a man with a Rottweiler/lab mix female under 4 years old.  She is sweet!  Walks nice and seems very calm.  Her tail was clipped?  He now has German shepherd/husky mix puppy that is very timid.  He walks the two past our house all the time.  The puppy is coming along though.  She is getting big and seems a little less timid than when I first saw her.  The kids (mine) know everything about them.  Anyway, thought I would pass it on that one of Gerdy's is now taking on another rescue and teaching her that some people are OK.

Kiely is also getting a little calmer each day.  We can now have family time with him doing what he should, laying on the rug chewing his bone (not the kids socks, slippers, or shoes!).  He still hates the car, but we can't leave home without him.  He spent the fourth of July at Sebec Lake in Maine (NW of Bangor) with us at my sister's camp.  He had a ball!  The camp next door does not have dogs, but they do have biscuits!  The next camp has a cute playmate, the camp ruler, and the two came knocking on each other's door daily.  Lots of running and chasing and just fun.  Freedom!  Kiely does not like the water.  Getting him into the boat took some gentle coaxing, but once in it he loved it.  Boats are better than cars it seems.  He didn't bark at the loons that surfaced next to the boat or at the fawn that was swimming by (3/4 of a mile swim!) I could not get him to the dock for a picture, but the black/white picture is one of him hiding under the table in fear of me making him go near the water (I wouldn't do that!).  He preferred the grass, running, and sitting in front of the stove!  We will be back there for two weeks!  I love to see him so happy.

Maureen"

    
 
 
   
   
 

Dear Gerdy and Friends,

Just a quick update to fill you in on a few things about Kiely (aka Cowboy).

We finally moved into a new home at the beginning of April 2010 after leaving Montreal last August.  We found a great yard for Kiely with nearly a 1/2 acre of fenced in yard for running.  Kiely just isn't an outside kinda dog and much prefers to be inside with the crowd.  But when we are all out, he has the freedom to run.  It is also a great neighborhood for long walks on wooded trails and lakeside paths.  His dog cousin, Sebec, comes to visit often, and they love to wrestle and run together.  Inside the house there is a small room with a gated door to the hall and another door that leads to the outside.  It is a great kennel for him when he needs it.  A place to be contained without feeling closed in.  However, Kiely has developed good house manners and has been able to be left alone in the house without being kenneled in!  In the fall we will get him a friend in fur.  The kennel will come in handy.

Kiely is now famous!  As a house warming my sister had a oil painting commissioned of Kiely done for us.  The painting is proudly hanging on our wall in the family room along with our black and white sketching of our first dog, Bess, and our three children.  What makes him famous is that the painter decided to use Kiely on his new trailer.  He loved Kiely so much that he put his painting on the side of his trailer along with his own dogs!  Now, when you drive around art shows or just anywhere around the triangle area of NC (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) you have a good chance of catching a glimpse of Kiely on the side of a truck!

Check out his portrait on www.doggiepaintings.com 

Maureen		  
 
 
   
   

"Hi Gerdy,

Thank you for sharing the newsletter.  Cowboy (Kiely) is doing great.

He has come a long way since we first met him.  At the beginning it was hard to touch him because he would nip and jump.  With a lot of patience and  persistence, he now lets me hold his paws, pet him and pat him endlessly, and he is not nipping as much. Usually he just goes after fast feet, but even that is so much better.    

He learned to love the cats (my sister has 5!).  He either just steps over them, sleeps next to them, or steers clear.  Tripod, the three legged cat has an attitude that Kiely has leaned to respect.  We call her "HISS."  He is NOT an outside dog!  Despite his free running space and a big yard, he will only go out if someone is out there with him.  He is too funny.  He loves his cousin, Sebec, and his hiking buddy, Murphy.

He also enjoyed running free in the woods of Maine last summer with the five other dogs that came to the cabin!  He gets along with everyone!  We are planning to adopt another dog so Kiely has a regular playmate.  Sebec comes for play dates, walks, and sometimes overnights, but a regular "friend in fur" would serve him well.  I am relatively sure he is a happy dog.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Maureen and Kiely"

    
 

 

  
 
  Betsy & Maggie  
     
   

Betsy

Hello!  I’m BETSY, and I am around 8 months old and a Blond Lab Mix, with lovely soft fur.  I am about 60 pounds of friendly FAMILY DOG, not a mean bone in my body.  I have beautiful golden eyes that are full of puppyhood love.  I am just about PERFECT—I need some obedience training to make me perfect—but I am a smart girl and would learn fast.

I would be good with kids, friendly dogs and probably cats if they stand up to a pup like me and teach me cats are #1!  I am energetic so would need exercise, but I also travel well in the car. 

I haven’t a clue why my family dumped me on a busy highway where I was saved by a kind motorist who didn’t leave me to get hit, but brought me to safety.  I had a real angel that day.  I was too young to handle that alone and I was so scared.  Now I am ready to put all that behind me and look forward to a new forever home of my own! 

Gerdy’s will have me spayed soon, shots are up to date, including kennel cough (Bordatella), I am defleaed & dewormed just in case and vet checked.

    
   

Maggie

This nice mix of black lab and border collie is a year old and is very friendly without a mean bone in her body.  She is very well behaved, though needs leash training. 

She is VERY smart  and observant, and is a quick learner.  Gentle and loves children.  She was given up because of allergy. 

Maggie is spayed, shots to date, heartworm tested negative, defleaed & dewormed just in case, Bordatella vaccinated.

    
  Adopted separately by one loving family  
   
   

"Hi Gerdy,

I thought I'd send you a few pictures of Maggie and Betsy from the first day and days 2 and 3 in their new home together!

Anjali"

    
 
 
   

"Hi Gerdy,

When they are not out in the park playing Maggie and Betsy like to wrestle at home.  They often sleep together on the same dog bed too, probably because the cat has a bad habit of stealing the other bed!

Anjali"

    
 
 
   
   

"Hello Gerdy and Judy,

Just a little update on Betsy and Maggie.  We had a great summer together.  We spent about 5 days in the country and lots of time in the park.  We generally spend an hour to an hour and a half in the park every night.  I'd love to have sent you some outdoor play shots, but my camera is slow so they never turn out well.  I've sent a few pictures of them in our home.

Maggie love everything and everybody; she is at ease in all situations and even loves the vacuum cleaner.  The only time she ever barks is when she is trying to get one of her park buddies to chase her.  In comparison, Betsy is a little more nervous.  I think that her early life has left her a little less trusting of people. But we go out and socialize a lot (we have to for Maggie).  And, I find that Betsy becomes very friendly and comfortable around other people and dogs once she has a chance to meet them. 

When my 2 and 3 year old nephews came to visit I told them that they could play as loudly as they wanted with Maggie, but that they had to be very gentle with Betsy.  Within about 10 days though, Betsy had become completely at ease with their boisterous behaviour and she was happy to play with them even when they were loud and rough!

I'm glad that I adopted them together.  They love each other (and me!) so much.

Anjali"

    
 
 
   
 

"Hi Gerdy and Judy,

As promised I am sending you recent pictures of my dogs, Maggie and Betsy, who I adopted from you in May 2008.  We live a very happy life together, as these pictures show.

Thanks again for all that you do.

Anjali"

  
     
  Sandie  
     
   

Is there a more DEAR Pomeranian anywhere than our sparkling Sandie?  This 12 ½ pound little girl  of about 1 ½ years was picked up after seen being  thrown out of a car by a horrified person, who immediately rescued her from the roadway. 

Sandie is a cheerful girl in spite of her experience, playful and loving.  She loves to be walked on leash, and travels well in the car.  A light beige in colour with lighter highlights, she is a beautiful dog who enjoys being fussed over. 

Sandie is spayed, heartworm tested negative, vaccinated Bordatella, Max 5, Rabies, and is dewormed, no fleas.  Sandie actually GRINS, she is such a happy little soul!

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hi Gerdy and Judy,

 She’s fit right in and I’ve never seen a doggie so willing and eager to please.  She’s learning not to chase her new step-brothers (cats and dog) and in fact she and Kosmo are beginning to bond!

I think she is very happy with us; she gets lots of attention and cuddles.   I’ve attached a photo of her after her bath with her chewy.  

Sincerely,

Anna"		    
 

 

  
  The 3 Amigos and Chloe  
     
   
   

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.

 

    
   

Special Needs

Chloe

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.

    
  All 3 Adopted together, along with Chloe!  
     
 

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!

  
 
 
 

"Hello from the three Amigos....better known as the three that do not realize they are over 6 yrs old.  We LOVE to be at our new home in Vermont.  The weather is kind of muddy and our bellies get dirty but then we jump on Jeremy and Peg's lap and rub all the dirt off. 

Lucy (aka Gilda) says she is in absolute heaven when Daddy takes her in his truck.  She howls a little when he is in the store but settles down when she can see him.  Isabelle (aka Judy) loves her stuffed frog.  She runs around and around through the kitchen/bedroom/.livingroom and back around again until someone throws it for her.  She LOVES tugging on the rope with Spartacus, even though he is alot bigger than her. 

And me, Wyatt (aka Calhoun) well, I just love sitting on Peg's lap.  SHe thinks I am a little too big for this but I snuggle right up and she accepts it.  I am getting a little pudgy though because they cook so well for me. I did have a little bit of a "fight" with big Ole Dozer.  I got a bit of a black eye but nothing serious.  I just think I am bigger than him and can boss him around.  We will work it out though. 

Just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you again for helping us find our forever home.  You made all this possible for us.  We wish you a Happy Spring and hope we can come and visit soon.
 
Much love from all of us in Vermont.....

Peg"

  
 
 
   
 

"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"

  
 
 
 

Ok, first of all, Hi everyone.  I hope this email finds everyone well and healthy.  Since summer is quickly fading, I thought I would sent a family report to you so you can have a snapshot into the Vermont clan.

Chloe:

Since her negative tests for heartworm, she has had no difficulties.  She is plump and happy.  Occasionally she still has accidents in the house but nothing like it was.  Jeremy has built steps for everyone to get into his bed, which they most of the time oblige.  She has some lumps on her back, but the vet is not concerned about them, so neither are we, although we will keep an eye on them.  Other than that, she has adjusted very well to her new home even the occasional game of "chase the cat".

Wyatt (aka Calhoun): 

What can I say about the big doof?  He is goofy, loves to roll downhill on his back, then get up and do it all over again.  Quite a sight to see.  He will lay down at the top of a hill and wait for you to push him so he can roll all the way down.  He will do this for hours if you let him.  Other than that, he is a big boy, weighing almost 70 lbs.  not fat, just big.  He doesn't seem to suffer any side effects from his previous problems and spleen removal.  He loves to be on the bed, chair or anything else he can find to cuddle up to you on.  He is quite the character.  He has decided, along with Lucy, that started a quartet of howling is fun and getting the other two to join in is ever more fun, (the others being Spartacus and Dozer).

Lucy (aka Judy): 

Now heres a character.  She is definilty Daddy's little girl.  She will sit on the deck and watch him, every move he does until he comes back in.  Then she will decide when it's bedtime and wait for Jeremy to go to bed.  If he is not ready, she will stare at him and "talk" until he gets up.  She is the Soprano section of the quartet.  They have a new and beautiful winter home newly built for them, equipped with mattresses, blankets, hay, a door and anything else they could need in the winter.  (to this day I am not sure why I spent 7 hours on this building with Jeremy because they are always on the bed at night)

Isabelle (aka Gilda): 

First impression?  FAT!  (dont tell her I said that).  Her favorite past time is to sit on a chair with you.  Not like a normal dog would on their back....oh no, Isabelle has so sit on her butt, while you put your arm around her and she watches tv beside you like this.  Then when she is ready, she will jump onto Jeremy's bed, undo all the sheets and covers, bury her toys in the pillows, then come back and sleep on the chair..??!!

Minnie-Me (the beagle): 

She must be about 16 yoa now, can't hear a darned thing, so we use sign language with her.  She is still as lively as can be and sleeps 23 out of 24 hours.  She DOES have a huge snoring problem.  (well not a problem for her but for me since she sleeps with me).

Dozer:

Still just as big as ever, and as goofy.  His fur has all grown back since his summer shave and he is happy about the cold weather.  On the weekends, he likes to sit in my car, with the tailgate open and survey his domain.  Even if we dont go anywhere, he is fine with that.  He still has terrible ear problems that we battle with, but are doing our best.  He is also an old man, prob about 9 now, so we are lucky to still have him.

Spartacus:

My baby (well he's 3 now)  He is my go everywhere dog, even kayaking.  He once decided to lay across the cockpit of my kayak and go for a ride with me.  Kinda big lap dog at 120 lbs.  So I got out and he sat in the boat and I paddled him around.  His favorite thing to do when we kayak, it to share a swim with me afterwards.  I say swim, but he prefers if I swim out then hold him as he comes out to me.

Kosmo: 

My big and beautiful horse.  He is still goofy, and he got spooked by a Moose in the woods and threw me. Oh well, nothing I cannot handle.  First time he has thrown me.  Prob not the last time.  But he is good, getting ready for winter, all furry.

The cats, are just cats, they are ready to hibernate, sticking close to the house.  We are missing a cat, he has been gone a for quite some time now.  We miss him.

Hope everything is well with you all and you enjoyed this update

Peg"

  
  Candy  
     
   

Compassionate Placement

Candy is a lovely tri-colour girl of 8 years, she had been given up by her owner and is now one of the luckiest Bassets in the whole world!

    
  Adopted  
     
 

From Gerdy:

CANDY is a senior Basset lady who would have been on a Compassionate listing but was instead adopted right away, by a wonderful couple who not only gave our 3 Basset breeder seniors (“The 3 Amigos”) a home all together, but also took CHLOE a Basset and now CANDY.

In the foreground of the picture is the former CALHOUN, now WYATT. Healthy and handsome, we couldn’t believe it was the same sad soul that Peg (with Candy, now DAISY, giving kisses) and Jeremy took on.

Our deepest thanks to this wonderful couple who are real Earth Angels in giving these elderly sweethearts a new life for which they and we at Gerdy’s Rescues are very grateful!

  
     
  Amber  
     
   

Amber is a 30 lbs Collie/Husky mix pup, about 6 months old and though she has husky in her blood, Amber is more Collie in temperament. 

Amber was one of 3 pups seized along with 50 others by the SPCA from a hoarding situation and taken over by Gerdy’s to vet and place.  She only knows she is treasured and loved by all of us helping her, and is forming happy memories now she has another chance at a normal life.

Amber hadn’t been out until we took her over, so didn’t want to try to walk on leash nor step on grass, nor get into a car.  Now she can do all those things with confidence.  Amber needs encouragement to try new things while she is still a pup, and practice socializing. 

Amber could benefit from having another dog in the new family to be her mentor. Spayed, vaccinated, HW negative, dewormed.  Sweet girl, eager to please, not a mean bone.  Great for a family dog.

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hi Gerdy and Judy,

Just wanted you to see how beautiful my girl has turned out. She's the picture of good health.

Thanks again for rescuing her!

Mary"

    
 

 

  
  Mr. Henry  
     
   

But you can call me HENRY!  I am a Basset Hound, a jolly and loving, lively boy of about 45 pounds and 1 ½ years  old.  I am a red and white lad, in very good health.  Not a mean bone—we Bassets are known for that—I am soon to be neutered; vaccinated, Heartworm tested negative, dewormed & defleaed.

I was given up by my family who told Gerdy if she couldn’t pick me up right away I’d be thrown out on the street, so typical of some areas, sadly.  I did nothing to deserve that and am a sweet dog.  Bassets are not for condos or apartments—we can get vocal when excited and happy or playing—so I need a house.  And the back yard MUST be a fenced- in one as we hounds will take off following our nose to China and beyond, it does not occur to us to stop til we are thoroughly lost then we get scared and helpless, but by then can’t find our way home.  So—THOROUGHLY fenced in safe yard a must! 

I love kids, likely will be ok with a cat especially if the cat dominates me!  I get along fine with other friendly dogs.  Bassets are very people oriented—we need to be near our beloved humans—so best someone is home most of the day, I can be crated (recommended) for times you go out or at night.  You cannot be in a bad mood and have a Basset—we are natural clowns!!  We make you feel SO appreciated and cherished by the loving manner a Basset looks at you!  Yes we countersurf so food has to be beyond our reach—we can stretch—we have such a keen sense of smell we cannot resist trying! 

Love to play and have belly rubs and neck scratches—great at curling up beside you as you watch tv!  Bassets love to be where the family action is and content to lie near.  Sing “Dance with me, Henry” and we will make beautiful music together forever!

    
  Adopted  
   
   

"Dear Gerdy and Judy

It took the two a good two weeks but, Lily and Henry are finally getting along. With that said, Mr. Henry tried to "share" Lily's food last night (because he had already finished his) and she let him know, in no uncertain terms, that this was HER food! 

They've now bonded so Mr. Henry will be adopted."

    
 

 

  
  Shilah (aka Sandy Golden)  
     
   

This lovely girl was born February 2, 2008 and is 2 years old.  Perfectly a charming lady, she was abandoned by her owner.  This is a very friendly and mature- minded Golden Retriever with great manners and poise for her age, but still has the Golden sense of fun!

Spayed, vaccinated Max 5, Bordatella and Rabies, dewormed, no fleas, heartworm tested negative—what a gal!  She loves attention, and interacts very well with people and is dog friendly—likely could charm cats as well!  A “typical Golden” Sandy will charm you completely with the love and trust in her eyes.

    
  Adopted  
   
   
 

"Hi Guys,

We wanted to let you know that Shilah is doing great. She loves her new home, and her big golden retriever "sister".  She already knew how to sit, lie down and stay. Our 6 year old has taught her how to "shake-a-paw".  Shilah and our 6yr old are best friends. They go on walks every day and play constantly. Our poor 14 yr old golden retriever is exhausted. LOL. She has certainly been cured of the boredom and loneliness she felt when her previous, 15 yr old golden sister passed away last year.  We are all having a blast.

The first day we had her, I received a call from the school that my son was sick, so I was away for an hour. I left a sandwich on the coffee table. I came home, and it was still there. Shilah had walked past it, sniffed it, and did not eat it. We thought we had the perfect dog! A week later, my son, husband I heard something in the kitchen, we glanced in, and saw Shilah with her front paws on the counter helping herself to our leftovers. Our 6-year-old said, "well, I guess she knows she is staying." Well, so not exactly perfect, but certainly close. We couldn't be enjoying her more. We can't wait until the summer so we can get her to the cottage.

We thank you so much Gertie and staff!  There is certainly a special place in heaven for you.

Juli"		  
 
 
   
 

"Hi Ladies,

We got our beautiiful golden retriever, Shilah, from you in March of this year. She is so playful that we she'd love to have a brother. 

She plays with the German Sheppard across the street all the time, when she comes over with her owner.  We have an acre fenced in with underground fencing. They run everywhere and wrestle. Shilah is a real cuddler, that she stops every once in awhile for a hug.

We just put in a fibreglass pool this year, and we went with fibreglass just so we wouldn't have to worry about dogs scratching the liner.  Shilah was the first one in and the last one out this summer.

We could tell that she had never swam before, when we took her to the cottage. She was shocked, then thrilled when she realized she could actually swim.  I really wish we had that on video.

Juli, Paul, Xander and Shilah"

  
     
  Maddox  
     
   

Maddox is a 4-6 year-old beautiful black German Shepherd who spent weeks in a pound, followed by MONTHS in a shelter. He spent his days and nights on cold concrete while waiting patiently for a new family to notice and adopt him, to share their lives forever. His eyes were bright and eager as he sought acceptance of people checking out the dogs for adoption. 

But he was always overlooked because of his breed, colour, and age. As time passed, one back leg weakened but was unattended. His eyes, once so full of hope were instead filled with pain. There were little options left for Maddox, his time was running out.

You can read more about his story and the wonderful people who donated to his recovery here. Without them, Maddox never would have found his forever home!

    
  Adopted  
   
 

"Hi Judy,

Take a look at my babes!!!  Julia is such a card.  My life would be completely empty without her.  I love them so so much.  Maddox is such a gentle dog. 
 
Joy"

  
 
 
   

Maddox was able to walk with Joy in the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Hudson, QC, March 13, 2010 - a wonderful way to show people how far he has progressed. 

The dog who could hardly walk did the whole 2 km walk AND back to the starting point again - he was a great participant and proof that an old dog with medical help can bloom again in his senior years with good care! 

He looked far younger too than his years!

    
 
 
   

"Heartworm and Maddox.

Hi Gerdy, Judy and everyone else from the rescue. 

I thought I would give you an update on Maddox as this marks a little over one year that you opened your hearts to him.  As I am sure you can remember, Maddox had many injuries as well as the life threatening results of being heartworm positive.  I was honored to take Maddox into my home to help him recover.  It was a long process but well worth the effort as I watched him go from a lifeless boy into a healthy and happy dog. 

I will not lie, as initially I was a little reluctant to care for such a sick dog, but I have to say, it has been educational and rewarding.  Maddox took the treatments well, and was very accommodating while residing quietly in his crate for the months to follow.  We took things slow as recommended but the time in fact passed very quickly.  

The last heartworm test was nothing short of a huge celebration as it produced a negative result.  We have since moved forward with Heartguard for the next few months and he will be followed up yearly to ensure he remains heartworm free.  The end of the story of course, was my reluctance to give him up.  I just could not, as together we had quite a journey of love, trust, commitment and friendship.

Maddox and I would also like to take an opportunity to thank all those private donators for their generosity and beautiful hearts that helped Gerdy help Maddox.  Thank you all so much for all that you have done and continue to do.  We thank you every day for giving Maddox his life back….he has touched so many hearts and remains to be an inspiration to all.

Best to you,

Joy, Maddox and the rest of the fur crew"

    
 

 

  
  Quellie (aka Vickie)  
     
   

Hit by a car at age 4 months and taken over by Gerdy’s for medical care, she is now 6 months old, fit as a fiddle for her new home. 

She weighs 30 pounds now and seems to be a Lab mix, maybe fancy says there is Visla in there?  Very pretty girl.   Nice nature, great for kids, likes other dogs, need training of course in obedience.  Worth consideration as a great family dog. 

Spayed, vaccinated, dewormed, Miss Vickie is anxious for her forever home!

    
  Adopted  
     
 

"Dear Gerdy,

It is exactly two months that she is with us and has made a lot of progress.  She is still full of energy and loves running in the woods and fields with Toeuf—swimming and splashing in the river.  Today we took both dogs for a long walk at the St Eustache Flea Market. 

She has calmed down a lot and has a lot more freedom in the house as long as she is supervised, and she is much more obedient.  She can sit and stay well and comes when we call her.  She is very affectionate and growing into a great pet.

Sincerely,

Jean-Paul"		  
     
  Jay-J  
     
   

Hello potential family!  Gerdy named me Jay-J.  I am about 1 ½ years old, maybe close to 2.  They don’t know you see, because I was a stray picked up by a pound to be euthanized if no one claimed me.  No one asked about me so I was going to be PTS whatever that means.  I hear I am one fortunate dog!  I am very nice, a GOOD -hearted boy, not a mean bone in me.  I was very skinny, 36 pounds, but my foster family have me on good food and I am gaining nicely.

I have beautiful white teeth so they know I am young.  I am a mix of Husky and German Shepherd, and am very handsome.  But there is one little thing—one of my back leg paws has only 1 toe, the rest were either cut off or I might have been born like that.  So I favour it a bit.  

My vet thinks if I get a little boot made special for me so my paw does not touch the ground but the boot does, I would be much happier.  Gerdy’s is looking into that idea.   Everyone at the vets loves me!  They say I will be a great family dog.   I am neutered, heartworm tested negative and on Revolution for heartworm prevention, vaccinated Bordatella, Rabies and Max 5, dewormed. And no fleas!   I am good to go!    It was MY lucky day when Gerdy saved me, make it YOUR lucky day and choose me! 

Note from foster Mum—He is a wonderful dog, will make someone a devoted pet.  Quiet, he will whine a bit at the vacuum or in the car because he is not used to it..  He will do better as he gets experience.   He is great with our other dogs and cats, and is quiet and well behaved in the house.  I crate him when I go out or at night, he settles down well and sleeps.  But he is PERFECTLY HOUSETRAINED, he asks at the door.   

Loves his leash  walks, not hard to walk. VERY affectionate, he wants to be near and get an affectionate belly scratch.  EAGER  to please.  This is one of the finest natured dogs I have ever fostered! A REAL SWEETHEART!  He would be an ideal  first dog in a loving family, or great companion for a single person or couple.  Only “talks” when excited, otherwise is very quiet and dignified.  An extremely trusting boy.  A ONE IN A MILLION DOG!  Just wants to belong.

Prosthesis provided by: www.orthodesign.ca

    
  Adopted  
   

"Well he really lucked out today!  He got fitted and adjusted, I was ready to bring him home when a vet, Dr Dunbar came outside on a break & watched him walk around with the “boot” on, sometimes putting weight down & other times not.  He has to start at 5 minutes a day & work up to full day—gradually. 

The physio girl was out with Dr Dunbar, between them they suggested Jay-J might benefit from their combined training efforts to wear the boot and at the same time do exercises to build up his balance & muscle in the weak leg.  So, we agreed and left him in Maria’s care til next Monday to get a good start. 

Rog & I have to be away anyhow as of Friday-Mon am, so will get him when we get back, along with our 4 dogs from boarding.  We understand about today, did not really expect you as I know kids have to be looked after & it was an awkward time of day.  No problem. 

I am sending you pics of him with his boot on.  Only thing it will clunk when he walks on a hard surface, hope it will not bother you!  He didn’t mind getting it fitted either, such a gentle boy.  In the waiting room he talked & talked to Rog & me & Gerdy—finally I caught on, he wanted to sit on a chair like us, so hopped up on one and lay his head in my lap to wait for Rejean to arrive!  Rejean was very impressed by him.  Sending a few photos!

Judy"

    
 

 

  
  Toby  
     
   

Toby is the brother of Freddie who is now adopted. He lived outside as did Freddie, but was finally just caught and has been neutered, vaccinated and dewormed, tested negative FIV/FelV. 

Domestic shorthair of 7 pounds, this grey and white young man is a dear boy with a kind nature.  And now he is finally inside—he can’t understand why on earth he never wanted to come in from the cold!  A young cat, he hopes for a loving home soon!

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hi there Judy and Gerdy,

I am finally taking 5 minutes to send you recent pictures of Joey with Adora both relaxing in my bed!!!!(quite the life I tell you.....)

Joey is adapting quite well to his new home.  He is going all over the condo now and teases Adora by running by her really fast and Adora just chases him all over the place.  Only have one little problem lately and that is Adora eating Joey's food and then being sick.  

I placed the food higher so Adora could not get to it, but now Joey is going in Adora's food and he got sick today.  Quite the challenge to keep each of them out of the other's food!!!  I am sure I will find a solution soon!

Have a great day :o))

Barbara, Adora & Joey"

    
 

 

  
  Romeo (aka Cloudy)  
     
   

This wonderful Domestic Longhair male was born April 2, 2009, and is 1 ½ years old.  He had been shaved because of mats  and is 13 pounds of LOVE! 

This grey and white Mr Romantic is SUPER affectionate and LOVES to be cuddled!  Neutered and vaccinated, Cloudy is ready to romance the whole household with his affection and purring nature! 

With Cloudy in your life, all your days will be sunshine of happiness.

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hi Gerdy,

I miss you but I think will be OK at my new home. Today, Jean-Pierre and Rochelle gave me my pill, and they rub my belly a lot.  The food is quite good - dry food and canned food -- special stuff.  

Because I am such a love-bunny, maybe they will change my name to your suggestion, Romeo.  Lots of love and good luck to all the other cats and dogs,

Your friend, Cloudy (aka Romeo)"

    
 

 

  
  Wilson  
     
   

Wilson is a darling and sweetly playful  male ShihTsu of 6 ½  years, he was one of 2 dogs  brought into a shelter by an owner not wanting to care any more for his pets. Gerdy’s has had them fixed up medically and has brought back joy into their lives as well.

Neutered, he will live a life of retirement  and a carefree life—Wilson has so much more to offer, and he has lots good years left! Wilson is playful with other dogs, and housetrained. He is used to a crate but barks at first, so not suggested for an apartment or condo, but he is nice and quiet loose in the home.

Wilson gets along VERY WELL with cats as well, hardly bothers with them.  Travels well by car, loves being held in your lap.  Wilson loves to sleep on the bed with you at night, you hardly know he is there—but he loves to be near his people!  Could also be a great dog for a retired couple or a single.  Good with respectful children, not a toy for toddlers. Wilson plays "Pat-a-Cake" with his front paws -- so cute! 

Dewormed, vaccinated, heartworm tested negative, Wilson is ready to go home with you!  Dear, sweet, and trusting—is Wilson!

    
  Adopted  
   
   
   

"Hi Gerdy, Judy and All!

Sorry that we have not been in touch.........Wilson just feels like such a part of the family, and like he has been with us forever that I forget that its news! 

Well, just as Judy predicted, things have settled in and wilson has found a way to share himself such that both Mom and Dad each feel quite special and loved :) Seems that Wilson goes EVERYWHERE with either Mom or Dad.....walking, shopping, and all.  I am pretty sure he is never alone (not necessarily a great thing, but oh well!).  As for me, wilson and I really enjoy some great long walks, and even a bit of a run in the park!! 

Here are a few shots of Wilson in his new habitat.....

Proudly wearing his new rain coat (apparently, he won't wear the hat......... thank goodness! :))"

    
 

 

  
  Milo  
     
   

This baby Golden Retriever was brought to a vet with a broken leg.  Gerdy took over his case and saw to it he had all the vet care he needed to recover, even though he may have rehab in his future as well—we still need to wait and see.

He was adopted by a wonderful family who fostered him as he recovered—Milo is a friend to all he meets.

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hey Gerdy & Judy,

I just wanted to say hello & even though I have been emailing with Averil - who has been amazing and helpful with regard to the puppy, I wanted to write to you to give you an update and Thank you and Gerdy sooooooo Much for saving him & granting us this amazing gift into our lives. He means more then words can say.

His name is MILO!

He is a true gift and just the sweetest boy. Cooper and Spirit have taken really well to him- I think Spirit likes having a puppy after all the ones that were probably yanked from her to early - she is really maternal and happy to have him around. My girls were beside themselves with JOY!!!!

Averil is wonderful and you and Gerdy are so lucky to have her on your team. I know she thinks you are both incredible and respects you both very much.... isn't it great when good people find each other and work for a good cause together!

Thinking of you and hope to hear from you soon,

Heather"

    
 

 

  
  Earl (aka Cesar)  
     
   

This 9 year old Shih Tzu male is neutered, has his shots and is vaccinated, and ready to go.  This jolly, friendly, and still nicely active boy loves life and is attentive and in good health.  He was abandoned by his family who no longer had time for him and his simple doggy needs to be a part of the family, and  no time to exercise him. 

Cesar looks for a forever home where he will be a part of the family dynamic. This black and white handsome boy likely would accept cats and another friendly dog. Good with people, Cesar would like to be the ruler of your heart. Dogs need to feel loved and wanted, can YOU make way for Cesar??

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hi Gerdy,

I am writing this note to thank you for finding me my new home. When Mom came to see at Sandra's last week, I showed her my smiling eyes! I felt so good after being groomed, the groomer kept telling Mom how good I was. In the afternoon we came home.

Then I met ALL my brothers and sisters and guess what Gerdy.....they are all cats! Most of them are bigger than I am!! One of them keeps wanting to wash my face...don't they know guys don't like to get washed?

Anyway, I want you to know how appreciative Mom and I are, she says she has been looking for me for a long time and she is thrilled she found me. She said she LOVES me!

Bye for now.

Love Earl and Mom"

    
 

 

  
  Bailey  
     
   

Meet Bailey, an adorable 3 month old male Yorkie Maltese cross.  With a heavy heart, Bailey was surrendered to Gerdy’s Rescue and Adoption in order to find him a home where he will not be alone all day.

Bailey was given a good start in life by his previous owner as he received lots of love and attention.  He is presently living in a foster home with another dog and 5 cats.  He has no issues, as he is perfect in every puppy way possible.

Bailey is crated trained and even asks for the door when he needs to go outside.  This little man is extremely smart and listens very well.  Bailey’s main mission in life is to please his people.

If you can provide Bailey a loving forever home for the next 16 years, have puppy and dog experience, then little Bailey eagerly awaits for his new family.

Bailey is vaccinated, intranasal bordatella, no fleas or worms.  He will be provided with additional vaccines and neutering only when due.

    
  Adopted  
   
   
   

"Hi Gerdy,

It is hard to believe it has only been a week since we came to see you to pick up Bailey.  As you can see from the photos... he has really settled in well at our house.  Missy continues to mother him and Emily is still over the moon.  Bella ... well she is adjusting....lol
 
Bailey has completely bonded to Emily.  She plays with him nonstop when she is home and he now cries when she goes to school. (but only for a moment... then he goes on to play with Missy.) 
 
Thank you so much for all you do for animals in need and for helping us to adopt Bailey.  You can let his former owner know that he is very loved in his new home and he is never alone now.  For even if we are not at home (which is not often)... her plays with the other two dogs. 
 
Jacqueline and Emily"

    
 
 
   

"Hi Gerdy,

It has been almost two years since we came to pick up Bailey from your care.  I just wanted to touch base to let you know what a lovely addition to our home he has been. 

Bailey’s owner made the right choice to give him up to a home where he could have more company as Bailey is a very social animal.  I think that had he been alone for hours at a  time he would not be the happy, active and social little boy that he is today. 

Note: Bailey is one of three dogs in our home.  He loves to spend time with both people and pets.  While there are times when he drives his “sisters” to the point of distraction… they both care about him and play with him daily.   He also enjoys playing with our cat Lucy.

I have included a couple of photos’ of Bailey for you to see what he looks like today. (He was only a puppy when we took him home with us.)  I have recommended your rescue to several people… thank you for doing what you do.

Jacqueline"		    
 

 

  
  Hunter  
     
   

Hi, I'm Hunter! Unfortunately, this photo doesn’t do me justice. So, when you see me in person, you’ll be suitably impressed! I’m two years old and weigh 75 lbs.

I'm a happy go lucky fellow, love to play with other dogs but I don't know if I've ever seen a cat before! I’ve been in two homes. I was given up once - that hurt - and then again - double humiliation. Had my second owner trained me, I would still be with him. But in a way I'm glad, I wasn't allowed to move or breathe with him, he was always yelling at me. You see, he’d never had a dog before and thought dogs don't move if you tell them not to…

So how about it. Can you find it in your heart to give me another chance and to be patient with me while I learn to be the perfect dog?

    
  Adopted  
 

"Dear Gerdy,

Happy New Year for you in 2008!

Hunter has been with us for about 2½ years now. He is always effusively happy and enthusiastic. He loves his new family, friends, house and garden. He is a wonderful family pet who is extremely friendly and good natured. He loves people and follows us where ever we go and likes to stay close by. Hunter loves to play with other dogs - as for squirrels, he loves to chase them.

He is in very good shape with all the walks and exercise he now gets. He has lots of colored toys that he loves to shake and chew and he knows how to make them squeak. His favorite is the octopus with long legs that fly around when he shakes it. Hunter particularly likes tennis balls and usually comes to greet you in the morning with one in his mouth. There are dozens of tennis balls all over the house. He loves chasing them in the park. It is often a challenge getting the ball back from him and he prefers to be chased w ith it.

Hunter is a good hiking companion for long walks in the country. He has climbed to the top of Mt Sutton several times, running up the hill while we walk. He loves swimming in lakes and rivers, but hates having his ears cleaned out afterwards. Hunter was very helpful when our house was repainted. He delighted in stealing the paint brushes and running around the house playing chase. Needless to say, our painter loves dogs.

Hunter’s favorite place is in Gen’s room, where he is allowed to sleep on the bed. He has a very nice cozy dog bed of his own, but still prefers the real thing.

Diana and Gen"

    
 
 
   
   

"Hello Gerdy,

Hope that all is well with you. As always, you are very busy finding homes for so many cats and dogs.

Here are some news from Hunter, the handsome blond lab who has been with us for 5 years now. As always, he is a very friendly, easy going and happy fellow, and is a real pleasure to have around.

His favourite pastime has not changed and is still chasing tennis balls. His little sister Moka, who is a 2 year old chocolate lab, keeps him on his toes. They adore each other, love to tussle, and are great companions.

We have just been to the Magdalen Islands on vacation for 2 weeks. This is a great dog-friendly destination with lots of wide open spaces, lovely scenery and white sand beaches. Hunter and Moka enjoyed a long beach walk every day and a swim. Hunter chased the tennis ball into the waves, Moka chased after Hunter and tried to jump on him, and then they both came racing back for more.

Hunter loves to swim and was very determined to recover his ball while it was tossing around in the waves. Everybody came back in great shape. Here are some pictures.

Cheers

Diana"		    
 

 

  
  Molly (aka Holly)  
     
   

The mother of Ivy, this girl too is a tortoiseshell domestic shorthair, about 1 ½ years old.  She is very friendly, loves to be fussed over but has the queenly attitude of all tortoiseshells—only when she feels like it!  She is a delightful cat, very curious, very trusting, a very nice girl.

She is FIV/FelV tested negative, spayed, vaccinated, dewormed, and can be adopted with or separate from her daughter Ivy.  Loves play, and napping in a patch of sunlight.

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hello Friends,

Just to let you know Molly continues to do well. She is such a joy to us.   We couldn't have found a better cat.

What a personality this girl has!   She is a delight, and lots of fun.   She has gotten over her fear of cat toys,  and now plays with them every day.   She has all kinds of funny little quirks to her personality.   She love to crawl under blankets,   she sometimes sleeps on the scratching pad,  she spends time investigating the bathtub,  and she sits up like a little dog for her morning breakfast.

Her only problem is that she has become a bit too "full figured".   So now we are no longer free feeding her dry food.  She gets a bit in the morning,  in addition to a small portion of wet food,  and about 1/4 cup of dry again in the evening.   If this doesn't work,  we will send her to weight Watchers.   She is a big girl,  and big boned,  but we don't want her to get a weight problem  at this young age.

She loves to be brushed,  and she tolerates having her nails trimmed and her ears cleaned. What to say...she is just wonderful.

Sincerely, Elizabeth"

    
 

 

  
  Fannie  
     
   

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.

    
  Adopted  
     
 

"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)

  
 
 
   
   

 

"Hi Gerdy & Judy (& family)

I just wanted to tell you about my first week with my new family.  I have had a fantastic week and I feel right at home.  My new big sister Maggie has been very tolerant, she lets me chew on her neck & ears and even lets me use her as a pillow; she shares all her toys with me and  I even get to eat her food sometimes because she doesn’t eat fast enough.  

Christine & Rainer have given me the nickname “piggy” because I like to eat so much.   I have so much fun playing with Maggie, we run, chase cats on the other side of the fence and  chew the plants in the garden (even though we’re not supposed to).  I have met a lot of the neighbours and they all say that I am adorable.   

This past weekend we drove up to the Laurentians and I got to drink straight from the lake, I even went for a quick dip in the lake because I didn’t know that I couldn’t walk on water!  I  got to track through the woods and follow all the wonderful smells (deer, rabbits, squirrels) in the forest.  I am sending some pictures from my photo album so you can see me in my new home with my new big sister. 

Thank you for taking such good care of me and finding me my new home."  

Fannie

    
 
 
   
 

"Hi Gerdy,

Our girls are doing great, Fannie is growing like a weed. She wasn’t much of a cuddler when she came to us but boy has that changed! She still kisses you clean at every chance she gets but she has certainly adopted Maggie’s attitude that she’s a lap dog. She’s currently tipping the scales at 32 lbs. She’s an absolute delight and we couldn’t imagine our home without her. Attached are a couple of more recent photos of our little girl.

Hope everyone is well – kisses to all.

Christine"

  
 
 
   
 

"Hi Gerdy and Judy,

Although it’s a little late, we all wanted to wish you a very Happy New Year.   As you can see from the pictures Fannie is rapidly catching up to Maggie in size.  She’s a little lighter but at the same time she’s a little longer.  She’s has not acquired anymore settings -  it’s still either ON or OFF with no in between. 

The evening walk is always a treat – whoever draws the short stick has to take Fannie’s leash because she only knows how to run.  

Winter has been a hoot so far, Fannie is a huge fan of the snow and she’s hoping for tons more.  She rarely exhibits any signs of being cold and she loves to dig for hidden poopsicles (not an activity we’re especially fond of) ! 

Fannie and Maggie’s personalities seem to be complete opposites yet have become the best of buddies – they play hard together yet always end up snuggling and sharing a pillow or sofa. 

Warmest regards for all of you and may 2008 be filled with open loving homes for all the sweet souls that you rescue.

Christine & Rainer (Maggie & Fannie too!)"

  
 
 
   
   

"Good afternoon Gerdy, Judy & Roger,

Fannie just wanted to say hi and let you all know that you remain in her heart even as she turns ONE!  She had a great birthday, treats all round for everyone and a new toy for Fannie that she has been kind enough to share with Maggie.  I have also included a few more recent pictures. 

As you can see, Maggie and Fannie are still thick as thieves, although the picture shows Maggie’s crate, Fannie likes to make herself at home in there as well!  Fannie has always been very vocal but she has yet to “get the hang of the howl “ (not for Maggie’s lack of effort in setting an example!)  Fannie takes every opportunity to clean those she loves and to make sure that everything and everyone is tidy, not a stray crumb in the house.  Hope this email finds everyone well and I will send more pictures soon.

Best wishes always and thanks for all your caring and hard work.

Christine"

    
 
 
   
 

"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!"

  
 
 
   
 

"Hi Gerdy, Judy & Roger,

It’s been awhile since I have checked in because we have been so busy with our home renovation.  I am a big girl now (3 years old) although I try to maintain my long slim figure, I am a healthy 55 lbs, my vet would like me to lose a few pounds.  I am a good girl, I do not counter surf like my big sister Maggie however I am always happy to share in her success and she is always kind enough to share.  My favourite spot to hang out is on top of the couch and I keep a vigil watch on everyone, I am always quick to sound off the alarm when someone is passing by.  My howling still needs a bit a work, I am not nearly as good as my sister but I always join in when the opportunity arises

I have mastered the car ride and I no longer get sick or pee in the car and love the field trips north to the cottage.  Actually any car ride with my family suits me!  I love going for walks and the minute I see the leash I start to dance with the anticipation of strolling the neighbourhood and smelling the daily news!

Thank you for taking such good care of me and finding me my home.  I am happy, healthy and loved.

Fannie the Bassett"

  
     
  Mingus (aka Doobie)  
     
   

Hi!  I am 11 months old and think I am a lap dog—I am SOOO affectionate—and not a mean bone in my 60 pound body.  Neutered and vaccinated,  I am a Basset Hound, and  I am HOUSETRAINED.  Great with kids, and I  love other dogs. 

Bassets do best when someone is home with them during the day, we do not like to be left alone all day as we are people lovers and get lonely!  I need a fenced yard to play in as if I got loose, I would follow my nose to China and beyond!  I love to get exercise, can walk as much as you want to,  but will curl up on your lap to watch a soap or hockey on TV—I will sleep through either—I just want to be near you! 

You can put my bed near your computer to work, too!  I am a natural clown, so you cannot be in a bad mood for long.  My people work all day and I get lonely and bored—so they have decided it best to place me where I will have human company that I crave.   You can talk to me and tell me all your problems, I am a good listener and will give away no secrets, your most loyal friend!

    
  Adopted  
   
 

Hello everyone!

I just wanted to take the time to thank you for all the work that you've done with our newest family member, Mingus (formerly Doobie).  Between our other Basset Sasha and our daughter Sofia, Mingus has all the love and attention that a big boy can ask for.  Sasha and he are constantly playfully biting each other and running around in the yard; there's definitely no problem with them sleeping at night!  

My daughter is absolutely in LOVE with our buddy and Mingus understands that he should be gentle with her, as well as with his new doggy-friend.  I must commend Gerdy's rescue and especially the Pattersons (her foster family) for providing us with such a well-trained, well-behaved puppy.  It was clear from the first day that Mingus was a perfect fit with our family and he has brought us nothing but love and joy; he's as happy as I've seen a dog be and the sentiment is shared by our entire family.  I've attached some photos of Mingus hanging out and hope that you enjoy them.  

For all those considering getting a dog, I couldn't recommend Gerdy's rescue any more enthusiastically.  Between taking 3 visits to properly make sure that their pets are well placed, providing us with a well-groomed puppy, and even providing us with heartworm medicine, the experience was nothing short of perfect.  They even go so far as to provide first time dog-owners or owners of a specific breed with ongoing email and phone support if necessary.  Time to go play fetch now!

Warmest Regards,

Sam, Andree, Sofia, Sasha, and Mingus!		    
 

 

  
  Mabel  
     
   

Well, what can we say about wee Mabel?    Very affectionate, she is between 9 months and 1 year old.  She is cute as a button—and very smart as well. This little girl looks like a Boxer shrunk in the wash—a Mini Boxer face and spotted legs!  She is God’s Designer Original, and a GREAT personality.  She weighs in at 15 pounds and is about all grown.  She gets along fine with the foster’s cats and dogs.  HOUSETRAINED.

She will be spayed soon, vaccines:  Bordatella, Max 5, & Rabies; no worms or fleas, she is very playful with a lot of energy but not annoyingly so!  Not a mean bone in her. She was trained at some point to “sit”, “lie down”, “stay” and NO” (in French).

This little paragon of virtue was discovered tied to a pole with her worldy goods (toys) in a bag beside her, in the extreme cold where she likely was for at least half a day.  We cannot think of why that happened to such a sweet soul.  Settles down well in the car, interested in all around her.   Mabel or Ma Belle—this is a dear kind girl who wants to never have her bag packed again!  Can she unpack at your home FOREVER?

    
  Adopted  
     
  "Hi,

Just wanted to let you know that Mabel is doing very well, she following John around just loves him. If he disappears for a while -- bathroom, basement or outside, she cries till he returns.  Well Judy she is still sleeping on the bed, the first night I put her cage in our bedroom before I went to bed and mentioned it to John. I went to bed and of course gotten woken up by her walking all over me -- questioned John as he got into bed, listened to these excuses from him -- could not find the cage, door wouldn't open, she started to cry, well guess what! She is still in our bed!

Again thanks for her and will keep in touch.

Maureen and John"

  
 
 
   
   

"Hi Gerdy & Judy,

Just a short note to let you know how Mable is doing.  She is on the go always never stop unless she is sleeping, she has adapted well to our house hold and is still sleeping on the bed.

I have enclosed a few pictures on her and the first one is of Winnie.  I go on your web site at least once a week.  Take to you soon,

Maureen"		    
 

 

  
  Roxy (aka Marilyn)  
     
   

What a fabulous family dog this girl is!!  Saved from euthanasia at the last minute from a pound, this dog is a TREASURE!!

Everyone loves her who meets Marilyn.  She is gentle, smart, interested in people and other dogs, likely would accept cats due to her happy nature.  And beautiful as well, Marilyn is a mix of Collie/German Shepherd Tri-colour  but most resembles a Collie with her lovely long hair and bushy full tail!  Eyes soft as chocolate, not a mean bone in her! 

Marilyn knows how to sit and beg, sit, lay down, give the paw—and is bright enough to enjoy learning other tricks quickly.  Marilyn is so good at her sit/stay in fact, that the pound people believe she was told to do just that as she was dumped on a country road and was patiently sitting when she was found, as she was told to do!

She is about 2 years old, weighs 46 pounds and is heartworm tested negative, vaccinated Bordatella, Max 5, RABIES, DEWORMED, NO FLEAS, SPAYED.

We gave her a beautiful name to match her inner beauty as well—Marilyn awaits to gift you with her devotion.

    
  Adopted  
   
   

"Hi Gerdy and Judy,

Just a note to let you know how Roxy(Marilyn) is settling into her knew home. What can we say... Roxy is a fantastic dog and we are all having a great time with her. She is well behaved in the house and has endless energy when playing outside, she is loads of fun.

She is getting more familiar with the neighborhood and really likes meeting other dogs. I have attached some recent photos. One is Roxy and her friend Coal.

Thank you again,

Karen"

 

    
 

 

  
  Spirit (aka Carrie)  
     
   

Compassionate Placement

This girl presented one of the saddest cases we have ever seen.  Carrie is a TERRIER MIX of 7 years old, salt and pepper colouring.  A PUPPY MILL BREEDING FEMALE, this poor girl could not walk when we first got her.  She had been kept a prisoner in her cage in the puppy mill, the only time she was taken out of it was to be bred.  Her legs had lost their muscle, especially the back legs. 

When we took her,  she could hardly stand up.  She was so scared, that she didn’t move much,-- she did not want to be noticed, that was her only defence, to make herself invisible.  She had the dearest wee face, and a look to it that would break anyone’s heart—still HOPE shone from her eyes, she had not given up on people, but was so afraid to trust.  So she did nothing.  We had her rotted teeth removed—12 in all—now she can eat without pain anymore!  We had her spayed so that never again would she be forced to have puppies for sale at every heat.  

As a result, she brightened up and started walking then jumping, til she had recovered the muscles in her legs!  She still needs more work on her housetraining, but it is understandable, and with time and guidance that should be accomplished.  She weighs about 19 pounds—she has put on good weight sorely needed.

Carrie has a sweet nature and will repay an adopter many times over in love and devotion for a secure and caring forever home.

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hi Gerdy,

I hope you are well! I just wanted to let you know that Spirit is doing really well. We love her dearly and she is gaining more & more confidence everyday! House training going really well!!!! Smart Girl!

Best,

Heather

(Cooper & Spirit- what a cute couple!)"

    
 
 
   
   

"Dear Gerdy & Judy,

I love your section called Tales to tell. I know that Spirit has been already posted but I wanted to give you an update on how incredibly well she is doing. I as well wanted to make a calling out to any individuals who are reading this and considering adopting an older dog - but feel unsure. Yes, Puppies are cute - nobody is denying that - we all love Puppies! Rescuing any dog in need is a great humanitarian deed! But older dogs are: wise, sweet, and truly grateful to be given a second chance at a happy life.

Spirit is the perfect example of this: When we first met her my two daughters made an immediate connection with her that was truly heartfelt. Love at first sight you might say! I will admit I was a little unsure - I thought she was cute - all scruffy and with a story that brought tears to my eyes. (see Bio Above) And yes - she was already 7 yrs. old. But I felt something towards  her that felt really good - a connection. So I put my uncertainties aside & said maybe we should to give her a chance. We went home that day - leaving Spirit ( Carrie at the time) at Gerdy's to go home and discuss her as a family.

That night my daughter was in bed and when I went to tuck her in, she said to me: "Mommy I really love that dog and if we adopt her I want to name her Spirit. I think we should at least give her a chance - try her in foster for two weeks." Later that week-end we picked Spirit up and brought her home. Well, it did not take two weeks - it barely took two days until we realized she was a keeper.

You see older dogs are wise: she was so easy to welcome into our home. Sure there have been adjustments in the past month just as there would be with any dog. They all have been incredible to watch and rewarding for all of us to achieve together!

The first week we had her she would barely walk half way up the block without stopping every two feet. She had no confidence. Now she walks around the block with her head held high and so full of love. Even her little stump of a tail wags!!! It amazes me that this small dog who had had the hardest 7 years to start her life & was about to be euthanized can be so forgiving. And all it took was to just LOVE her. The love she gives back is a gift that we get everyday when we give her the life she deserves.

I am happy to say that her confidence is growing each and every day. She loves going to the girls soccer games, lying on her bed under my desk for an afternoon nap, on her walks around the neighbourhood, in the car to grandma's house, on the odd occasion stealing some food from someones plate left unattended and most of all the company of her brother Cooper ( our other Rescue dog who is 4 years old)! In the end what we all realize is it is quality of time we have with her - not quantity!

She is a great dog & a lesson to all to be open minded & make room in our hearts for all the dogs & cats out there who need our help! Thank you Gerdy for everything you give to the animals in need - the world is a better place because of individuals like you.

Here are some photos of Spirits first month in our life!!!

All our Love,

Heather, Mike , Skyar, Mackenzy & Cooper!"		    
 

 

  
  Silkie(aka Meggie)  
     
   

This dear 4 month old Basset Hound was born with a crooked spine.  But she has a pure heart and doesn’t realize she is not like all the other Bassets.

She is a puppy mill product or from a backyard breeder.  She looks like a Basset from her size and form, but does not have Basset colouring.  Nature’s mistake or something else in her family tree—she is determined she IS a Basset nonetheless and from her Basset side of the family she gets her stubbornness—she does not want to die or be incapacitated—she wants and is determined to be a REGULAR Basset when she grows up. 

Nothing can slow her down, she is normally developed and she insists on roughhousing with the other Bassets in her foster home, indeed that has made her stronger physically and mentally.  Still when tired, she likes—as with all Bassets—to be with her people, preferably at their side watching tv and napping! 

She has the Basset howl down pat, but only uses it to get her way while playing.  She will have to be followed her whole life medically BUT there is a chance she will never need surgery.  However, her adopter will have to be prepared for that eventuality and be willing to enthusiastically provide what is needed surgically.  

She is ready to go into a secure environment and will be spayed when old enough.  She is black and dark brown, with brown Basset eyes to charm your heart.

   
  Adopted  
     
 

Note from Gerdy:

Meggie has been adopted by a veterinarian and his family!  They adore her and she, them.  She will have all the future care she might need, given.  A more ideal and loving home she could never have—Godspeed, Meggie! 

From all of us at Gerdy’s Rescues and your guardian angels Louise, Colleen, and Jen.

  
 
 
 

 
   

"Hello to both of you,

I am sending you 3 pictures of Silkie, our happy mixed (Labrador/basset hound/thoroughbred) dog.  She is a very happy dog, she is perfect, she brings a lot of joy to our family.

Thank You

I am always available to help you in any way I can.

Jacques Dupuis"

   
 

 

  
  Bugsy (aka Edgar)  
     
   

Edgar is a 6 month old skinny Beagle with a heart of gold and a sweet personality.  Edgar got off to a rough start in life, born with 2 cherry eyes—which are now fixed. But that was not all of Edgar’s troubles—he found his way to a kill pound where he was going to be euthanized by gassing.  Gerdy’s  got him and 19 other dogs out before it was too late.

Edgar is going to make some lucky family a wonderful pet, he has not a mean bone in his body!  He is neutered, vaccinated, dewormed & defleaed.  Almost all set to go, very friendly  Edgar looks forward to a new leash on life with a loving family to call his own.

    
  Adopted  
   

"Hi Gerdy,

Just wanted to let you know how Bugsy (Edgar), is doing. We are glad to say he is just great, not only is he house trained, he has a very extensive list of tricks including numbers worthy of Hollywood. He is just the perfect pet and a great addition to our family. Here is a few pics of our little buddy...

Thank you for everything, and we are sure Bugsy thanks you also!"

 

    
 

 

  
  Bella & Sage (aka Tia & Pax)  
     
   

Compassionate Placement Together

Hello, we are Tia and Pax.  Our days of ‘painting the town red’ may be behind us but, at around 9 years old, we two ladies are still young at heart and spry enough for new adventures and look forward to many more happy years.  

We’re both in good health and recently had complete check-ups and dental work done, so we come with a clean bill of health!  One of us has only two teeth left but you’d never know it.  We both love our food as our waistlines prove.  Who can’t relate to that!

Ideally, we’re seeking a kind and compassionate senior who has the time to love us, pet us and just plain spoil us.  Why a senior? Well, we’d both be at that stage in our lives where we take nothing for granted and we’re grateful for every day we have. That’s not too much to ask, is it? 

After our owner died, we were going to be euthanized, but were lucky to have been taken in by Gerdy’s Rescue and went to live in a foster home with a resident menagerie.  We hold the all-time record, nearly 4 years in foster care, and while we have no complaints, a home of our own would be heaven sent!

    
  Adopted  
     
 

"Good Morning Gerdy & Judy,

The "Girls" and I are getting along very well.  I think they are settling in extremely well and have investigated the nooks and cranny's of their new home. Last night Pax lay on my bed most of the night and then shifted over to the bamboo chair which used to be Velvet's favourite chair.  I noticed before going to bed last night that Tia was happily curled up in one of my wing chairs in the living room.  I didn't go near her, but was happy to see her there. 

This morning I found Pax sitting on the window sill in the dining room watching the birds fly by LOL and then the hunt went on for Tia.  I couldn't find her anywhere.  I thought she would be back in the lower bed room when she heard me moving around, but no she was nowhere.  I looked under beds and opened closet doors, and looked under my living room  sofa and no Tia.  Finally I pulled the sofa out a bit so I could look behind with a flash light and though I didn't see her I suddenly saw a cat fly down the stairs.   I knew she could not be anywhere bad, but for the life of me I could not figure where such a big cat could hide.  Oh well I was just relieved to find her.

LOL, so that is how things are going after 3 full days.  I love them and am going to adopt them for sure and when you and I have a free day then you and Gerdy can come over and I will sign the papers and we will have a coffee. 
Safe driving,

Nancy"		  
 
 
   
 

"The other day I was in Walmart looking for a few things for the "girls" and I came across 2 beautiful cat beds that I thought they would love. Oh by the way I have renamed the "girls" Tia the really outgoing one is now going to be "Bella" and Pax who is coming out of her shell will be "Sage". They never came to either of their given names so I figured I had nothing to lose. It may take awhile, but I think these names are softer and more feminine. I have a friend who lives in Florida and he is a big rescue fan. He rescued a beautiful German Shepherd several years ago named Joey and nearly 10 years ago he rescued a lovely cat who was also 9 years old. His cat came with the name "Shades" and he did not like it. His cat was very distinguished and beautiful and so my friend named him Julius. It fit him to a tee and my friend said it only took one day for Julius to respond to Julius. Now in my case it will take longer since I will be talking to two. LOL Julius passed away about 6 months ago and he lived to be 18. Velvet (my cat) and Julius used to send messages to each other and each thought the other was quite grand.

Now today I went bowling and a friend of mine and his wife went out and bought my "girls" two Santa stockings filled with toys, treats, and special delightful food. LOL I was so surprised and thrilled and I took pictures of my "girls" after they had worn them selves out playing with the new toys. Before the toys I tried to give each a treat saying their new names. Bella was ecstatic and even wanted to eat the one I was giving to Sage so they both ended up with 3 so that dear Sage could at least eat her own. I am including the pictures. Oh by the way, I have noticed on Bella one very strange nail on her left front paw that may have been missed, but it is red and I tried to hold her and deal with it, but the claw never came out. When you come I would like you to help me with that please.

After they had their treat and then played with their toys, Bella went to one of the beds (one on the right) and fell asleep. Then Sage played with the toys and did the same thing (in the bed on the left). There is a real bed in this room and they usually slept on top of it when ever they were in there, but they seem to have taken to these lovely soft beds I found at Walmart. When I am home they have the run of the house and yet they often return to their room cause their food, water and litter box are there and they feel very secure there. When I am out (like today) I close the door so that they remain safe. They are truly lovely souls and I just can't believe they were not adopted long before now. It really makes me happy to know that when I am out they have each other.

Hope to see you soon,

Nancy, Bella and Sage"

  
 
 
   

"Hi Gerdy,

This is my "scardy-cat" Sage. She is so much more relaxed now. She is wonderful with me and if someone has been here a few times she will linger near by and THAT is a huge step forward. She is a delight. Bella is a darling also, but she has always been laid back and relaxed pretty much from the start. These pictures are just of Sage."

    
 
 
 

"Dear Gerdy & Judy,

Update on my two sweeties Sage and Bella. It is amazing to me how both of them respond immediately now to their new names. Sage comes from anywhere in the house when I call her name and neither of them ever responded to their other names (Tia & Pax) Sage (originally the smaller and timid one of the two) is sooooooooooooooooo affectionate you would not believe she is the same cat. Bella is more laid back and loves to eat and have her hair brushed.

Bella is the one with 2 teeth and she is the one who meows for her meals. LOL Sage who never made a sound the first few months has a language of her own now and I always know when she is arriving for loving. They both are doing so well and their coats are shiny and lovely now. Sage adores to look out the living room window and languish in the sun. Thank you for keeping them alive for me.

Nancy"

  
     
  Bella  
     
   

Born August 6, 2008 this 8 month-old girl, believe it or not is sister to MIDNIGHT!  No family resemblance at all!  Given up by owner due to medical reasons this girl appears to be a Border Collie mix—which one looks like mama or papa??  She has been spayed, heartworm tested negative, vaccinated Max 5, Bordatella, Rabies, defleaed & dewormed just in case. 

A girly-girl, Bella is friendly  and playful while at the same time quite dignified for her age at times.    A very smart dog also, she will benefit from obedience lessons and perhaps have a talent for agility!

Honest and open, she wears her heart on her sleeve and Bella hopes for a forever home soon.  Truly living up to her name, our Bella is beautiful inside and out!

    
  Adopted  
   
   

"Hello Gerdy & Judy,

Thank you for coming by last night and making Bella's adoption official!  She's been such a great girl since she joined our family five weeks ago!  Her big sister Mercy likes to remind her who's boss but they are quite playful together, Bella gives her paw to Mercy and then Mercy hugs her, it's hilarious!!! 

Bella is enjoying her big new backyard and loves going for walks.  I've attached a couple of recent photos, even though we bought her a bed of her own she likes to sleep in Mercy's bed, she barely fits especially with the cone on her head following her being spayed, it's a great photo!  Thank you Gerdy!

Karen, Raj, Mercy & Bella, Hudson PQ"		    
 
 
   

"Hi Gerdy & Judy,

Hope you are both doing well, just wanted to send along a great pic ....oh what treats and cookies can do to capture a dogs attention!

The yellow lab is my cousin's dog, as you can see Bella is the center of attention & we are crazy about her!!

Regards,

Karen"

    
 
 
   
 

Hi Judy & Gerdy,

How fast a year has passed, Here's some recent pictures of beautiful Bella, she's such a wonderful dog!

Regards,

Karen & Raj

 
 

 

  
 

To go back even further in the Tales to Tell archives, click on: PAGE 3