tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54197670765999756252024-03-07T22:08:44.147-05:00Champ's SpaceA Great Pyrenees view on life, my job as a Therapy Dog, and anything else animal related that I choose. (We Pyrs are quite independent and do pretty much whatever we please.)CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-81203488032630510612010-11-03T08:35:00.000-04:002010-11-03T08:35:54.354-04:0020 Years of Caring!Hello Everyone!<br />
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I love this beautiful fall weather when I can once again enjoy the outdoors without feeling like I'm about to faint! I hope you are enjoying it as well. I have been barking at the vultures and the turkeys....the latter drive me crazy when they "gobble".<br />
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In case you haven't heard, this is a big weekend for the Foothills Shelter: it is their 20th Anniversary, and we are all very excited about it. I have even agreed to let the gals at Landrum Vet bathe me for the occasion!<br />
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From 11am - 2pm on Saturday, PLEASE come to the Open House at the shelter on Little Mountain Rd. There will be lots of fun things to do, including free food! Unfortunately, I have been told that there is a ten-foot no-Champ zone around the food. Sigh. There will be pony rides, obedience demonstrations, and fun and games for everyone. Santa will be there, posing for photos with you and your pets, and I expect I will let him have a photo op with me while I am there! Think I will fit in his lap????<br />
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There have been lots of improvements at the shelter for the animals, so make sure you see those, and of course, I will be there with my little friend and spokesdog-in-waiting, Moses....who by the way, is not so little anymore! He is quite handsome, although he has a long way to go before he is as fluffy and glorious as me. <br />
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While you are at the shelter, please stop by and visit the animals. We have lots of cats and dogs, and while they do need their very own homes, they would really appreciate a few minutes of attention from you. A few kind words, or a scratch under the chin or around the ears, can be heaven for these homeless ones.<br />
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At 5:00 pm sharp, the Po'Kitties Photo Contest Awards Ceremony and FHS 20th Anniversary Gala Celebration will begin at the Tryon Fine Arts Center. My dear, ADD friend Randy Grobe will be hosting the event, so it should go pretty quickly. Every year I say this, but the photos are extraordinary! They look so good hanging in that magnificent space. The reception following the Awards Ceremony will be spectacular -- I read the menu and have been drooling ever since. I guess this is why I am NOT invited to attend. But all of YOU are -- this celebration is open to the public. <br />
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The local business community has really stepped up to the plate and donated some truly great prizes -- wait until you see them! My humans have been bemoaning the fact that they are ineligible to win anything! The photo that wins "Best in Show" will also win a week in a 3 BR, 2 BA Florida vacation home with a private pool, courtesy of Debbie Arnold and Terry Cacioppo. Now THAT is a really cool prize!<br />
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We are hoping that Sheriff Hill will attend (if he is not busy with his official duties) and Dana says that the "Po'Kitties Cowboy" BETTER be there! I know from years of experience that when she speaks to ME in that tone of voice, I better do what she wants, and quickly. There will be lots of local luminaries, and although I will not be there to lend my star-quality, it will still be a fun evening for all. <br />
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And me? I'll be home, looking for trouble to express my displeasure at being left out. Just kidding. Maybe.<br />
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Woof!<br />
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CHAMP<br />
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CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-24078582848975456382009-12-18T18:41:00.003-05:002009-12-20T19:44:01.693-05:00Santa Champ!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnILKi-1HZ1R76a58jjGotJZ7UxYQNiRZI2AKKN90ljQdtMpqbzYUMVFNoOX1DdIuOMcygYjxPKtsUqqdAwAGwIz4wGlSkBWjPZOutUUpvDTKnxOZnhGGG1nJ-SGBBjb1_fyqQ6aEzFYF/s1600-h/santachamp.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 363px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnILKi-1HZ1R76a58jjGotJZ7UxYQNiRZI2AKKN90ljQdtMpqbzYUMVFNoOX1DdIuOMcygYjxPKtsUqqdAwAGwIz4wGlSkBWjPZOutUUpvDTKnxOZnhGGG1nJ-SGBBjb1_fyqQ6aEzFYF/s400/santachamp.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416725650700968450" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Yes, Champ, There is a Santa Claus!<br /><br /><br />As a really smart human ( yes there are a few) named Francis Pharcellus Church once wrote , "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy." (Had he known me, he would have used MY name instead!)<br /><br />Santa Claus is coming to town this week and I am worse than any child! I know I am not supposed to pout (at least this week anyway) and I also know there are many animals less fortunate than I. But I really hope he comes down the chimney to see me and even as big a food monger as I am, I would still give him something to eat for his trouble. Although, maybe not cookies and milk.....I love cookies and milk.....<br /><br />I am pretty sure I won't get everything I have asked for this year, as the list is long. (You knew it would be, right?) Not only is my list long, but it is probably more than even Santa can pull together. And I am not sure his eight reindeer could carry it either, but I bet they would try! (After all, reindeer who fly have got to have Attitude with a capital A! Like me!)<br /><br />Here is my Christmas List:<br /><br />~ I want a loving home for every homeless animal in our community (heck, in our whole country.....wait, make that the entire planet, and I want it for the humans too)<br />~ I want food for every animal, child, and older person -- OK, for everybody -- good, nourishing food (pizza is good; actually, pizza is better than good when I can manage to nab it, and let's not forget the Christmas cookies)<br />~ I want safe, potable water for everyone (see above, I guess we're talking about the whole world now, humans included)<br /><br />OK, Santa, let's keep the flow going here....even though certain vets are among my favorite humans, and even though certain vet techs have become my personal servants (how sweet it is!), and even though I am forced to admit that "going to the vet" is a dreaded experience for me, I want all animals -- and humans -- to be able to see a vet (um, or a doctor) and to be cared for properly. <br />~ I want all dogs (and other beings) who are chained down to be set free<br />~ I want all cats (and other beings) who have no home to have food, water, and shelter<br />~ I want all animals and humans to be free from fear, from violence, and from needless<br /> suffering<br />~ I want.....well, Santa, I could really make this list a long one if I keep going on in this vein! Fortunately, we have many Santas, large and small, in our community and in our world, who are working to make this a better place for all -- animals AND humans! We all need to remember that and to be grateful for the Santas in our lives.....I have quite a long list of Santas I know. If every one of us were to be a Santa for another being, what a wonderful world it would be!<br /><br />"Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no CHAMPS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished." (Again, with thanks to Mr. Church)<br /><br />With a nod to each of you Santas, from the bottom of my infinitely grateful Great Pyrenees heart, I wish you all the joys of the season, and most of all, I wish you Peace.<br /><br />WOOF!<br /><br />CHAMPCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-52696752834014527342009-12-08T07:11:00.002-05:002009-12-08T07:12:34.610-05:00Pyrenees Make the BEST Kitty Beds!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3BpHPoC6wt7oD51asDxYoVZz40IHCAKHhfoQbUY8Y6THPPTDAGHUAT_ZVYhso7s51zI2fkxaQ5Ew_rSL9uUv93wCw7Kk0rZaZdQi2ymR_2nv0wQqp5AahyphenhyphenNsnc_yfXNqYEtAhlADniSL/s1600-h/nick+and+grover"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3BpHPoC6wt7oD51asDxYoVZz40IHCAKHhfoQbUY8Y6THPPTDAGHUAT_ZVYhso7s51zI2fkxaQ5Ew_rSL9uUv93wCw7Kk0rZaZdQi2ymR_2nv0wQqp5AahyphenhyphenNsnc_yfXNqYEtAhlADniSL/s400/nick+and+grover" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412837044308528674" /></a>CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-3090869393411037302009-11-25T06:50:00.003-05:002009-11-25T06:57:12.088-05:00The LONG Road Home....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEica2LmkLdCIiWOjQzyIfluaKx26Sq8gBx_5AnO10tzCuYno1s3QVDpEtEg3Ko_lROznqzAsLQ_xNDVYUolBNTjSwg1giySUhJ3KDmvYXRa-Bb-xP5UW20V4kUYHbCm2oOsaTkOtw5zb8Ih/s1600/Huey,+Dewey,+and+Louie+and+the+5+pups!.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEica2LmkLdCIiWOjQzyIfluaKx26Sq8gBx_5AnO10tzCuYno1s3QVDpEtEg3Ko_lROznqzAsLQ_xNDVYUolBNTjSwg1giySUhJ3KDmvYXRa-Bb-xP5UW20V4kUYHbCm2oOsaTkOtw5zb8Ih/s400/Huey,+Dewey,+and+Louie+and+the+5+pups!.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408007908239227906" /></a><br /><br /><br />Fred and Madeline Clas, Ray and Cindy Norden as Fred leaves to drive Huey, Dewey, and Louie and five puppies to Wilmington, Delaware.<br /><br /> <br />As I am sure most of you know, I am proud of my "Official Spokesdog" status at the Foothills Shelter. In that capacity, I would like to thank each person who donated their money, their time, their home, or their expertise to the animals at the shelter. Staff, donors, Board members, volunteers, foster caregivers, transporters, kitten feeders, dishwashers, dog walkers, feral colony caretakers, visitors, and everyone who put their spare change in the Foothills donation cans, as well as the businesses who let us put the cans there -- you all are literally life-savers for the animals. We are enormously grateful.<br /> <br />The purpose of my column today is to tell you about the Long Road Home. Each of the animals at Foothills has his or her own story; some happy, some not so good, and my friend, Lennie Rizzo, details many of them for you in his Special Cases column. I would like to tell you about how a community, our community, saved eight very special lives last week.<br /> <br />Last July, someone brought in three large, shy, unruly black pups, about four months of age. No one had taken the time to socialize these dogs, and it was difficult to manage them at the shelter, much less adopt them out. Enter Cindy and Ray Norden, two of the shelter's Fantastic Fosters. One phone call was all it took, and Cindy was at the shelter, leashes in hand, to lead these three lost boys (Huey, Dewey, and Louie, of course) out to her car and back to her farm, so that they could learn how to get along in polite society. Cindy and Ray are miracle workers and the most badly behaved dogs respond to their gentle training methods, becoming healthy, confident, and adoptable. The difference in their behavior was striking, even to me! Cindy returned them to the shelter, but no one came to adopt them, despite their delightful manners and sweet and hopeful faces. As the shelter became more and more crowded, Cindy and Ray took them back to their farm to give them just a little more time to find the perfect homes.<br /> <br />Kelly and Whitt Vinesett, another of the shelter's Fantastic Fosters, began by fostering -- wait for it -- EIGHT puppies (oh Kelly, say it isn't so!) but, because the shelter was plumb full of puppies, five of them had not been adopted. Dana began networking, and a rescue up in Connecticut offered to take them, since they had a long waiting list for lab mix puppies. <br /> <br />The rescue put pictures of the five puppies on their website (www.SaveATail.com) and agreed to put Huey, Dewey and Louie's photos up too, just in case someone might want to adopt one of these three lovely dogs. And lo and behold -- a wonderful man saw their photos and decided that all three would be the perfect addition to his family! He filled out his application and his references were checked, and he was approved to adopt Huey, Dewey, and Louie! But one problem remained to be solved.....how could the shelter get all eight pups up north?<br /> <br />Ta-da! Fred Clas saw shelter staff member Angie Yates' plea in the Tryon Daily Bulletin, and volunteered to be a Terrific Transporter. He agreed to drive up to Delaware to meet the rescue, and to take all eight pups with him! Whew! That is one trip I am glad I did not have to make! Fred, you are now officially my hero! So Kelly, Cindy, Ray and the eight pups met Fred in the Ingles parking lot in Landrum at 6 am one chilly morning last week (see photo). Fred's wife, Madeline, was there to see them off, but she said that unfortunately, there just wasn't enough room for her to go along. (Quick thinking, Madeline!) After a flurry of goodbyes from the Fantastic Fosters, Fred and the pups were off!<br /> <br />Following a traffic jam of several hours (whoa, better you than me, Fred), they arrived and met the rescue lady, along with Huey, Dewey, and Louie's new family. These sweet dogs knew instantly that they had a permanent home with a wonderful new family! The other five puppies traveled with the rescue lady to Connecticut -- and they have each been welcomed into new homes where they are loved and wanted! It is a very, very happy ending to what could have been a very sad story. Word has it that Huey, Dewey, and Louie's new owner is so happy with them that he is considering training all three of them to be Therapy Dogs! WOW! I'm sure they'll take after their Uncle Champ and be "simply the best!"<br /><br />So my hat, if I had one, would be off to Ray and Cindy, Kelly, Angie, Fred, Dana, and the rescue, for ensuring such a happy ending! And we have happy endings every day, thanks to all of you. You know who you are, and I thank each of you from the bottom of my great big pyrenees heart, We are very fortunate to live in a place that has people like you!<br /> <br />Have a happy Thanksgiving, and save a little turkey for me! <br /> <br />Woof!<br />ChampCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-14807283687558330862009-10-13T20:08:00.003-04:002009-10-13T20:14:08.658-04:00Free Cats, Starcats, Gully Street Cats and the Po'Kitties Reception October 16th<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhahAfRei3666byeYigRjNEAjabdSV5cFynKjdxKqLB9ayqcjJYTFcy45ErieAZDeLFrrHH3BhTH7kFlvsSWiqeqSb6rkoGlUsLwhf5VQto0N6feSjC3-IG5NUadwKC30VcZ8kVJHHjUWUy/s1600-h/pokitty"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 323px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhahAfRei3666byeYigRjNEAjabdSV5cFynKjdxKqLB9ayqcjJYTFcy45ErieAZDeLFrrHH3BhTH7kFlvsSWiqeqSb6rkoGlUsLwhf5VQto0N6feSjC3-IG5NUadwKC30VcZ8kVJHHjUWUy/s400/pokitty" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392241310972801410" /></a><br /><br />I am available if you want to adopt me!<br /><br /><br />Friday, October 16, is National Feral Cat Day! So it is incumbent upon me (or so I am told) to write something about "CATS". As you know, I live with a number of cats, some of whom I like more than others....but seriously, some of my best friends are cats! (Well, sort of, anyway!)<br /> <br />One of the things I want to remind you about is the Awards Ceremony for the 2009 Po'Kitties All Pet Photo Contest -- which is October 16th! I have seen a few of those photos and they are amazing! Wine and light refreshments will be served beginning at 5:00 pm, and the ceremony will begin at 7:00 pm. My good friend, Randy Grobe, has promised to host the event. I have unfortunately been banned because of my table-surfing habits, and I am told that the food and drink is only for humans. Rats! But bring your family and friends to see these phenomenal photos anyway! The photos remain on display through the weekend, on Saturday from 11-4 and on Sunday from 1-4.<br /> <br />By the way, one of my humans is featured along with Po'Kitties in Debra Halborn's just-released book, "Greetings from the Starcat Cluster". Debra will be signing her book at the Awards Ceremony for the Po'Kitties Photo Contest tonight! A portion of the proceeds from tonight's sales will benefit Po'Kitties, so please, as you are oohing and aahing over the photos, visit Debra's table and buy an autographed copy of "Greetings from the Starcat Cluster". It is one of my personal favorites.... except, Debra, how about "Greetings from the StarDog Cluster, featuring Champ, the Therapy Dog" as your next creative endeavor? A sure-fire best-seller, in my opinion.<br /> <br />Which brings me to another Big Event: the Free Cats-and-Kittens promotion! Yes, for a limited time only, Foothills Shelter is giving cats and kittens away absolutely free to approved homes! So, how is that better than the free kittens in someone's barn, or in the IWANNA? Well, "free kittens" aren't free -- they need shots, and they must be spayed or neutered. But the cats and kittens being given away by the shelter are already spayed or neutered, have had all of their shots, and are healthy and ready to go! The shelter would love a $10 donation to honor these awesome cats, but it is not required to adopt one -- or two! Come on down -- you'll find a potential soul-mate in every cage! And you will be saving a life at the same time!<br /><br />I want to personally thank the big-hearted folks who have stepped up to the plate and have offered Barn & Board to the Gully Street Cats -- and to those whose donations will help these cats along their way. Thus far, places for 36 cats have been offered, and the cats will be relocated as soon as they're vetted. This is such good news, and, on behalf of Po'Kitties and FHS, we are very, very grateful. Barn & Board is still needed for some of the Gully Street Cats, as well as on a regular basis for some of our Po'Kitties, so if you've got a barn and are willing to provide regular food and water, call Dana at the shelter -- feed a cat, save a life! <br /> <br />I was recently asked what the difference is between a free-roaming cat and a stray cat. Good question! A free-roaming cat can be either a stray cat or a feral cat.<br /> <br />A free-roaming feral cat is a cat who has lived apart from humans for most, if not all, of its life. These cats are not adoptable as house cats, although feral kittens can often be socialized and adopted out if we get them right about the age of six weeks, when they weigh about 1.5 lbs. The majority of kittens entering shelters in this country are the offspring of feral cats, so it would really help to make sure that all feral cats are sterilized. <br /> <br />A free-roaming stray cat, one who once had a home and is tame, is ready to go to a new, loving home after a health check, shots, and a spay/neuter. These are cats who only want to love and be loved, and even I have to admit that they are pretty terrific! (Well, most of them, anyway!)<br /><br />Our Po'Kitties program deals with both kinds of free-roaming cats -- the strays and the ferals. The cats get spayed or neutered, have a rabies vaccination, and the ferals get an ear tip so they can be easily identified as being in the program. The strays, who make themselves known pretty quickly, move to the shelter to be adopted out, and the ferals are returned to their colonies, all to live out their lives in peace. Which is something we wish for everyone. <br /><br /><br /><br />WOOF!<br /><br />CHAMP<br /><br />PS -- Next time, I swear, I am writing about DOGS!!!CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-82924776623037711522009-10-04T07:32:00.001-04:002009-10-04T07:33:13.017-04:00THEY TOOK ME OFF FACEBOOK!!!!Can you believe that?<br /><br />Me either!<br /><br />What's a dog to do?<br /><br />Woof!<br /><br />CHAMPCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-90293393238726057942009-09-16T23:03:00.003-04:002009-10-04T07:31:34.937-04:00The Shelter Animals Need YOU!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGL2OEVkbaHngwnkCx4NGEIeaGKUHZmBwmPk-KPMnf9tq2Fxusea6YdEuf4xvpIKzxjtYtE8vSNxuBt_W4V4-fszM9abUYDztEfpJA0WJhkCJ_HM90WAgbQLt-rLQnPELznLMEzHCuxMI7/s1600-h/Champ+-+Shelley.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 313px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGL2OEVkbaHngwnkCx4NGEIeaGKUHZmBwmPk-KPMnf9tq2Fxusea6YdEuf4xvpIKzxjtYtE8vSNxuBt_W4V4-fszM9abUYDztEfpJA0WJhkCJ_HM90WAgbQLt-rLQnPELznLMEzHCuxMI7/s400/Champ+-+Shelley.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388705998135142194" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />As most of you already know, I am the OFFICIAL spokesdog for the Foothills Shelter.....and if you have not been over there lately, you are missing out!<br /><br />For one thing, my handsome photo is hanging in the doorway and I have to say, Shelley Dayton did an awesome job of capturing my good looks! <br /><br />Come check it out! And take a look at all of our adoptable animals while you're there!<br /><br />You know, I hear so often, from folks who genuinely care, that they do not want to take an animal to the "pound", or they are afraid if they take an animal to Foothills that it will be euthanized. I think everyone should understand what is really happening at the Foothills Shelter.<br /><br />The folks there are working extremely hard to save every single one of the healthy, adoptable animals. This past month, the live release for dogs was close to 90%, with more than 80% for the cats. Do you realize how difficult it is to save all these animals that are brought in? Right now, they are only euthanizing animals that are aggressive to humans, or who are old with multiple health problems, or seriously ill or injured. <br /><br />It would be a whole lot easier to just send them all to Heaven and not have to worry with where to put them, but that is not what the Shelter is about! The goal is to save ALL healthy, adoptable animals. But the question is -- where do you put them?<br /> <br />There are lots of options, but community support is necessary to utilize them. Animals are adopted directly from the shelter, or taken off-site to places like PetSmart, the Hospice Thrift Barn, and community gatherings for people to see and adopt. Some animals get into rescues from as far away as New York. Sometimes they need a little more time for just the right human to adopt them, and they get that time in foster homes, right here in our community. There is even a boarding program for emergencies when too many animals come in at one time, so we have somewhere to put the ones who haven't been adopted yet.<br /><br />So...where do we begin and how can you help? <br /><br />1. Volunteer for our Fantastic Foster program! Take an animal into your home for a few weeks. Help the animal by giving it regular food, love, and in the case of dogs, walks on a leash. This frees up the shelter runs for new admissions and socializes the animal, which makes it that much more adoptable.<br /> <br />2. Take a shelter animal to PetSmart with our On The Road program. Each animal that goes with this group needs a human to watch over it and show it to potential adopters. This only takes a few hours of your time.<br /> <br />3. Offer your time to be a Shelter Volunteer. They need folks to walk dogs, play with kittens, wash blankets and bowls, stuff envelopes occasionally, and more. Do you have a special talent? Tell the Volunteer Coordinator. They are working hard on this program right now!<br /> <br />4. Get your pets spayed or neutered! There is really no excuse not to do it now, with the incredible deals offered by Foothills Shelter. It is affordable for EVERY human in our community to have their pets sterilized.<br /> <br />5. Let them know if you are taking care of feral cats! The Po'Kitties program can help with making sure they are not reproducing endlessly!<br /> <br />6. If you have a pet, socialize that pet! Get dogs used to walking on a leash. Teach them not to jump or be too rambunctious. Help your cat learn to be petted and held. These are little things that make it easier on YOU as a pet owner, and if there ever comes a time when you need to bring the animal to the shelter, it makes them more adoptable. Yes, it takes time -- and patience, and work. Just like any other job you do. The good things don't always come easily. And it is unbelieveably sad to see a half-grown pup struggling desperately on the end of a catch-pole, because a caring human has not taught them how to act properly. <br /> <br />7. If you have to bring an animal to the shelter, know that they understand -- but also, please try to help them if they ask you to keep the animal for another night, or another week, while they work to find a place for that animal. They are overloaded and need all the help they can get. And if there is any way you might be able to keep your pet if you had some help, ask to speak with someone about it. Sometimes there are solutions that can be found to allow you to keep your beloved pet.<br /> <br />8. If you know someone who is bringing in puppies or kittens, please ask them to let the babies stay with their mothers until they are about eight weeks old. These babies learn critical behaviors during their first eight weeks, and need their mother's milk until their own immune systems are up and running. The shelter cannot take care of these tiny ones, many of whom need around-the-clock care, and they must go to foster homes. Some do not survive because they need what humans just cannot supply, and there are only so many foster homes available. It is a hard job hand-raising these babies, and so sad when they don't make it. Once the puppies and kittens are eight weeks old, and socialized to humans, the shelter can adopt them out easily. <br /> <br />9. They are trying to save the lives of some of the healthy cats and kittens who must be removed from a colony in Columbus. If you have a barn or shed, and are willing to share it, and food and water, with a healthy cat or two, call and ask for Dana!<br /><br />10) And lastly, if you are in the market for a dog, cat, puppy or kitten, please consider adopting from the shelter...you will not be sorry!<br /> <br />The folks at Foothills are doing so many wonderful things to save lives, and YOU can help! There is nothing more exciting as when you know that you have helped an animal get a new home, and a new life.....well, almost nothing.....<br /><br />Please help us save the lives of the animals in OUR community!<br /><br />Woof!<br /><br />CHAMP<br /> <br /><br /><br /> Photo by Shelley DaytonCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-14929396339569538412009-07-28T21:57:00.003-04:002009-07-29T05:56:01.049-04:00The Dog and Cat Days of Summer...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7tWoJSZ5B8Uia5dPY7rO_x3aAFtHSaNcJAT1kOoEeMxJlB3FTk_rk9GHNFQPVUn1ftH_hVI7se3ZIpJCEYRv7mrtOTDu5ha1gnkBZGcbycBsQGrLyqmmMyYun621oV493WXcqjwbStYb/s1600-h/champsflower"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 262px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7tWoJSZ5B8Uia5dPY7rO_x3aAFtHSaNcJAT1kOoEeMxJlB3FTk_rk9GHNFQPVUn1ftH_hVI7se3ZIpJCEYRv7mrtOTDu5ha1gnkBZGcbycBsQGrLyqmmMyYun621oV493WXcqjwbStYb/s400/champsflower" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363695756067872962" /></a><br />Photo by Judith Kerns<br /><br /><br />Greetings, everyone!<br /><br /><br />It's that time of year again -- time for the 2009 Po'Kitties All Pet Photo Contest! All entries must be postmarked by August 31, barely a month away. Once again the Big Bash (Awards Ceremony) will be on October 16, National Feral Cat Day, and the magnificent and generous Celia Kudro has offered the use of the former Red Clover Gallery for the festivities. Last year was such a blast! The food was awesome (and set right about my eye level, yum!) I have been barred from attending by my humans due to the proximity of the food to my face. Busted!!<br />Last year, the photos were incredible. There were lots of people there, and they gave away some pretty neat prizes, too. There were over 200 entries! And right now, if you want to see last year's winners, you can stop by Carolina First Bank in Columbus where they are on display. It'll make you want to grab your camera!<br />Send a 5 x 7 photo of your pet snake, rat, gerbil, cat, ferret, parrot, pony, dog, turtle, hamster, spider, goat, donkey, canary, pig, or whatever your pet may be, along with an official Entry Form and $5 to P.O. Box 39, Tryon, NC 28782. You can get an official Entry Form on: www.pokitties.com if you click on the contest link. <br />Then on October 16, bring your family and friends to see YOUR pet's photo on display at the former Red Clover Gallery! Remember, the deadline is August 31! <br />Black is Beautiful! (And "fluffy white" is out of sight!) There are a large number of black dogs, puppies, cats and kittens of all shapes and sizes -- some big, some little, some fluffy and some sleek -- at the Foothills Shelter right now. So they decided to have a "Black Goes with Everything" promotion. Look for the upcoming ads! The fabulous (and beautiful) Suzanne Strickland over at Stone Soup has donated ten "Lunch" gift certificates for the shelter to give the first ten folks who come and adopt a black animal during this promotion. Woo-hoo -- who says you can't get a free lunch anymore? I have been known to lunch on the terrace at Stone Soup on a nice day, so I can personally attest to the fact that the staff is wonderful and the food is divine.<br />By adopting a black animal, you are saving a life. For some strange reason, many people overlook the black cats and dogs, and there are some real winners at the shelter now. So come over, adopt a black pet from the large selection, and, if you are one of the first ten to do so, they'll give you a free lunch at Stone Soup! Black is beautiful, but fluffy white is all right!<br />And now, drum roll please:<br />Top Ten Reasons to Adopt a Black Cat or Dog<br />10. You'll save money on their Halloween costumes.<br /> 9. You can always find them in the snow.<br /> 8. Holding a black cat is very slimming.<br /> 7. Black cats and dogs match any decor.<br /> 6. A lint brush isn't required for a black-tie affair.<br /> 5. When you love a black cat, luck is on your side.<br /> 4. Black cats and dogs are like onyx, a gorgeous,<br /> black gem.<br /> 3. Hey, they don't care what color you are!<br /> 2. Love knows no color.<br /> 1. They are the least likely to be adopted.<br />Black is beautiful, but fluffy white is dynamite!! <br />In case you have missed seeing me out and about this summer, I have been snoozing by the nearest air conditioning vents. As soon as the weather cools off a bit I'll be back to meeting and greeting my many friends and fans. So hey to all you animals out there, and stay cool! <br /><br /> Woof! <br /><br /> CHAMPCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-7324343586225499182009-06-17T22:54:00.001-04:002009-06-17T22:56:04.446-04:00Do I Look Terrifying?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMriYQAEkOGzgA_U4Q6J3g8nJbQvrjUu2b3z0M48QvfGUoJwjygM0s4VWcrOKOOFTeiFNP3puIsLBZn3CekQaOeTVqpaV6ZAcSbGRQ7RyvXHg_MLsEwVwDKb7ev3zzxEanxtGaVI1OOvL/s1600-h/champandcollar.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 294px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMriYQAEkOGzgA_U4Q6J3g8nJbQvrjUu2b3z0M48QvfGUoJwjygM0s4VWcrOKOOFTeiFNP3puIsLBZn3CekQaOeTVqpaV6ZAcSbGRQ7RyvXHg_MLsEwVwDKb7ev3zzxEanxtGaVI1OOvL/s400/champandcollar.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348495799557409314" /></a><br /><br /><br />Do I look terrifying? Right now, the cats take one look at me and run for their lives! It's awesome!! But....that is the ONLY good thing to come out of my fractured dew claw. We Great Pyrenees have double dew claws on our back feet and I broke one of mine off and it had to be removed...OUCH! My humans have forced me to wear this thing around my neck that keeps me from licking the sore place, and I am not a happy camper. However, it is almost worth it to scare the living daylights out of everyone!<br /> <br />We have a houseful of foster kittens too; but I don't frighten them nearly as much. The shelter has been full-full-full and so some of the kittens are staying at our house and other folks' houses to get bigger and stronger and get used to humans (and dogs). I have got to say, they are awfully cute, and I feel so sorry for them. They have no homes, and there is really nothing that makes me more unhappy than to know that so many animals in our community are homeless.<br /> <br />The shelter staff and volunteers have been working literally around the clock to try to find foster homes, adoptive homes, or rescues where some of the homeless ones can go. As much as we all hate it, there is only so much room at the shelter.<br /> <br />One thing that is helping with the overcrowded situation is our new Boarding Program. The terrific folks at LANDRUM VET have given the shelter a great deal so that some of the overflow animals can be boarded, which gives the shelter more room and the animals more time. It is a huge help to get those animals awaiting rescue transport out of the shelter to make room for the new ones. The LAKE LANIER TEAHOUSE is helping raise money for this great program by hosting “Paws on the Patio” every Thursday night from 5pm until 8pm on their gorgeous terrace overlooking the lake. A portion of the proceeds goes to support the Boarding Program. All of us well-behaved dogs-on-a-leash are welcome to dine with our humans! It is certainly on MY calendar, and you can find me there on any Thursday it's not raining.<br /> <br />If any of you folks reading this would like to be a Fantastic Foster or an Awesome Adopter, please call or come to the shelter. You can see some of the available animals online at www.foothillshumanesociety.org (click on “animals”). We have some fine dogs and a bunch of kittens in every color and attitude! And since June is "Adopt a Cat" month, they might even let you have two for the price of one! I can personally attest to the fact that having two kittens is a whole lot easier on everyone in the house than having just one.....<br /> <br />And if you are going on vacation and have a little extra room in your car (and your heart), maybe you can be one of our Terrific Transporters and help an animal (in a crate of course) get to a new home or rescue. Call the shelter and ask for Dana if you would like to be a member of this prestigious group.<br /> <br />And....FREE HOT DOGS (my favorite!) and Veggie Hot Dogs will be available at this Sunday afternoon's FATHER'S DAY FROLIC at the shelter on Little Mountain Road. We are showcasing Working Dogs so you can see demonstrations of agility and obedience. Polk County's own K-9 Unit will be there, and of course Yours Truly will make an appearance, so it will be a “Do-Not-Miss-The-Fun” afternoon. PLUS there are great door prizes, including ten "Get Your Pet Spayed/Neutered FREE" certificates. A big Woof to that!! Bring Dad! Heck, bring the whole family! See you there!<br /> <br />Woof!<br /> <br />ChampCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-47270976230169395172009-05-09T21:35:00.002-04:002009-05-09T21:36:42.671-04:00In All Fairness....April has been a whirlwind of a month! I have been busy....more than busy, actually, but I guess that is a good thing.<br /><br />I enjoyed myself thoroughly at the Upstate Special Olympics this year. There were so many very special athletes in attendance.....so VERY many..... I thought the Ceremonial Opening Parade would never end! These special athletes brought joy, hope, and determination along with them, and their enthusiasm was contagious. One little boy was having a major melt down and I went over to cheer him up. He certainly forgot his troubles, at least momentarily, when a cold wet nose was presented, up close and personal. I mean, that is what a therapy dog is all about, right? <br /><br />The Special Olympics renews my spirit in so many ways, I feel humbled before these incredible humans (well, as humble as I ever get, I suppose). I have never walked away from these games with anything less than the greatest respect and admiration for the athletes, their teachers, and their families. <br /><br />I was invited (and was thrilled to attend) the Foothills Humane Society's annual fund-raising event, the Animal Fair on Sunday, May 3, as the "cultural attache" (go look that up in the dictionary!) What an amazing event! It rained cats and dogs (haha) for the first 15-20 minutes or so, but after that the weather was perfect. The food smelled delicious but not ONE solitary person gave me a bite.....not very humane, in my opinion! This year the Animal Fair was held at the Cotton Patch, and I would have loved to have been free to explore this beautiful place. <br /> <br />There were many animals present (although I was the only one walking about doing meet and greet duties). Matthew Lytle's reptile display included many interesting-smelling snakes, including a very large yellow boa that made me just a little bit nervous, although she was beautiful and as tame as I am. I think. And he had a real live dragon too! He and his helpers were kept busy answering everyone's questions, and I learned a lot about snakes.<br />Wild at Heart is our local wildlife rehabilitation center, and they do a lot of educational outreach and teach respect for wildlife. They had an amazing display there, including a Barred Owl named Locket. I did not see Locket at first, but Locket certainly saw ME. When I finally looked up, there was a very penetrating stare being aimed at me.....hmm. I am fond of chasing birds, much to my humans' dismay, but not when they are looking at me like that!<br />There were some miniature cows and horses that smelled pretty good from a distance, and at the bottom of the hill they had an exhibit that included a very large rabbit, a turtle (this one was a lot bigger than the ones I see in the woods around here), and some baby goats and baby pigs. When the lady went to feed the babies I guess she wasn't fast enough for their liking, and the baby pigs squealed like they were being attacked! At the first squeal I froze; at the second, I simply had to go make sure they were alright. My human insisted on accompanying me and since she can't run as fast as I can it was like dragging an anchor, but I did get down there and smelled the piglets thoroughly and we all touched noses and wagged tails. Cute little things, and smart, too.<br /> <br />Unfortunately, I was forced to have a bath for this event, and the crew at Landrum Vet (who are personal friends of mine) apologetically washed all the great smells out so I was really clean. They really outdid themselves and I will forgive them. This time. I honestly tried to behave, although they KNOW I don't like any pulling when they comb me out! <br /><br />This Sunday is Mother's Day! In addition to honoring and remembering Mothers, and wishing every Mother you know a happy day, it is also a good day to plan to spay and neuter your pets!! <br />Woof! <br />CHAMP<br /><br />P.S. Please if you are looking for a dog or cat to adopt, please go to the Foothills Shelter on Little Mountain Rd. and check the dogs and cats out! They always have some wonderful pets there waiting for their very own home! They are open seven days a week, and on Mother's Day from 1pm until 4 pm.CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-31860547897068065582009-04-15T20:51:00.002-04:002009-04-15T20:55:01.559-04:00Special OLYMPICS 2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyn0HBOn9u6bWsokUsQ6b3ScfGIQrzBqQ3OQl03vdxYLXcyJXVGNJiDCWeYhL41AFfh04-lcdyF4Dgz_Z8cebruzdJrX_074AqsSzQPFq5WUvUBcI0idlywKcQ5srzqciavuvQYaMxbEtT/s1600-h/CHAMPSO22009"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 342px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyn0HBOn9u6bWsokUsQ6b3ScfGIQrzBqQ3OQl03vdxYLXcyJXVGNJiDCWeYhL41AFfh04-lcdyF4Dgz_Z8cebruzdJrX_074AqsSzQPFq5WUvUBcI0idlywKcQ5srzqciavuvQYaMxbEtT/s400/CHAMPSO22009" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325086385304907474" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICoSDAZkNbEZ86-Ts5K4Dbgh3SR93qORzB-o4stWIc2OyE5xjWGpmB7WKp_BOQVouHXF_09CXQFShsa1TWx4I8U3SeOX7E3szqiOV6kshXwS5r-3IrmM_aIpmoOViPJ1bMz_qE9KHv8s5/s1600-h/champso2009"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 295px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICoSDAZkNbEZ86-Ts5K4Dbgh3SR93qORzB-o4stWIc2OyE5xjWGpmB7WKp_BOQVouHXF_09CXQFShsa1TWx4I8U3SeOX7E3szqiOV6kshXwS5r-3IrmM_aIpmoOViPJ1bMz_qE9KHv8s5/s400/champso2009" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325085840693567762" /></a>CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-32566722393252262032009-03-31T11:13:00.003-04:002009-03-31T11:16:23.005-04:00The Good, Bad, and Ugly<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCu3HO73jO1QUiWxWLG4NpKm39H-vbOZrUXlmhocnRv3qWUsFNdyLDBsAvXLckJ8ljF_TZOIOjC5D6lCFeurLvXj3i5fkDkwC3ZOUDiTUpH1414h1nAkjktwa-o4sIqBxn6uZkcCnqY_4/s1600-h/PolkCentral1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCu3HO73jO1QUiWxWLG4NpKm39H-vbOZrUXlmhocnRv3qWUsFNdyLDBsAvXLckJ8ljF_TZOIOjC5D6lCFeurLvXj3i5fkDkwC3ZOUDiTUpH1414h1nAkjktwa-o4sIqBxn6uZkcCnqY_4/s400/PolkCentral1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319370795907716226" /></a><br /><br /><br />The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly<br /> <br />It has been a busy month for me, and it has most certainly had its share of ups and downs, at least in my world!<br /><br />First, let me tell you about a little glitch I had....<br /><br />Earlier in the month I had a really rotten day, because I insisted on counter-surfing. As it turns out, I had to pay heavily for my sins.<br /> <br />For those of you who are not familiar with the term "counter-surfing" , let me share the official Urban Dictionary definition: "counter-surfing: a habit of medium-to-large dogs whereby they stand on their hind legs to see what is on the kitchen counter". Ha ha, and my personal definition includes grabbing and eating whatever I please, which is a wonderful reward, or so I thought. Anyway, on this particular day, there were some very tasty-smelling freezer rolls rising on the top of the stove. It didn't matter one bit to me that they were still in a hard, frozen state -- I ate them anyway.<br /> <br />Now, how was I supposed to know that this was now a Medical Emergency??? Thankfully my humans knew and took immediate action. This occurred at o'dark thirty when none of the clinics were open (of course) so they called my Godmother, who happens to be a terrific vet as well as an understanding friend, and she told them I had to give the rolls back, immediately. Uh-oh, that didn't sound good......and let me tell you, it was not a fun time for any concerned! They took me outside and poured something down my throat, and my stomach felt really, really bad and....well.....1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 rolls....<br />yup, they got them all back, much to my dismay. I felt crummy ALL DAY.<br /> <br />So, did I learn anything from this misadventure, you ask? Heck, no! I would do it again in a heartbeat! Hopefully my humans have learned their lesson and will never again leave rolls out where I can reach them! Like most dogs, I will eat whatever I please without regard to whether it will cause me illness, or, as in this case, potential death.<br /> <br />I am a very lucky dog because my humans knew that rising dough is extremely dangerous for animals to eat -- it can kill us, and very quickly. I am also lucky that they knew who to call and were able to get the dough balls back, and apparently just in the nick of time. Humans, ask your vet what to have on hand in case your pet gets into this sort of trouble.<br /> <br />But let's forget that little incident, as I am back to my normal, glorious self. I had a really great time at Laurelhurst this month! The residents there were practicing for their St. Patrick's Day Bash and sang a song for me. It was "I'm Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover" and they were not only jolly, they were in tune! Got to love those Irish! Oh yeah...and they gave me my own little bag of doggie treats!! YUM! (No frozen dough balls either!)<br /><br />I also went to two local schools this month. I was invited to Polk Central School, and let me tell you, these students rock! The students and teachers there raised over $700 for the animals at the shelter, and that is no small change! I was so impressed! They had a pet photo contest complete with the caption, "Whose Pet Am I"? under each photo. The photos were great! Of course, I personally am no one's pet, although I will admit that on most days, my humans are my equals. Maybe one day they will realize this. <br /><br />I also got to visit at Tryon Elementary along with Jack, my funny Therapy Dog friend. There were a lot of students here and we were the only dogs, so it got just a little crazy! Most animals do best in a calm, quiet atmosphere, but I enjoyed myself anyway. And I do think the students did quite well on their animal test!<br /><br />I am going to be at the Animal Fair this year! I was hoping I would be strategically placed next to the food, but in light of my recent escapades, my humans asked that I be stationed as far away from the food as possible. (Gee, thanks a lot.) Tickets for the Animal Fair are still available, and the best part is, you will get to hang out with ME. And feed me a treat, if my humans aren't looking.....<br /><br />I am also going to be a judge at the April Fools Doggie Costume Contest on Saturday, April 4th. Judging will be at 11:00 am at St Luke's Thrift Store in Tryon. Don't laugh -- I take my jobs very seriously! Please come out with your best costume on! My friend Lennie Rizzo and Ziggy, my wonderful, crazy Therapy Dog buddy (whose photo won an award in the Po'Kitties All Pet Photo Contest last October), will share judging duties with me. It should be a fun time. And the BEST part of being a judge is -- I don't have to wear a stupid costume!<br /> <br /><br />Woof!<br /><br />CHAMPCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-75667898884882304622009-03-04T10:18:00.002-05:002009-03-04T10:21:16.840-05:00Kelley Kitten - This One's for YOU!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh559BFRGq3yhXwZ8baCENV78I6Qg6K_2t4QkDpwXp1rlNL9w8PRdZjpOJeZDIBqL-Mr8fYVOr92UVcXhVkcZQXfLlqkNzfYEaQcx3THseCtvtpze_jNKQpxHNE4nVYdwcKrB5s5SJ343G2/s1600-h/DSCN3111.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh559BFRGq3yhXwZ8baCENV78I6Qg6K_2t4QkDpwXp1rlNL9w8PRdZjpOJeZDIBqL-Mr8fYVOr92UVcXhVkcZQXfLlqkNzfYEaQcx3THseCtvtpze_jNKQpxHNE4nVYdwcKrB5s5SJ343G2/s400/DSCN3111.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309352932332219266" /></a><br /><br /><br />I was thrilled last week to receive an email from one "Kelley Kitten". Granted, I was a little disturbed about what Kelley was saying, but nonetheless, I was still very glad that she wrote me. I am going to share her email here:<br /><br />"Dear Champ the Therapy dog,<br /><br />My name is Kelley. I am a three year old gray and brown tabby cat. I live on a horse farm in Campobello. When my owners are away at work, I read the Tryon Daily Bulletin. I like your column the best. Your last column was about caring. Being a cat, sometimes that is hard, but I try.<br /> <br />I am worried about a problem and I hope you can help me. I live on the farm with three other cats. We are all strays which were adopted. We all try to get along, but since we are all girl cats, we do have our disagreements. The problem is someone keeps dumping more stray cats at our farm. Sometimes there is a new cat every week. They are all big tom cats, and they are scary. I am small for my age. I asked my owners why I am so small, and they said it is in my genes. I’m still confused, because I don’t wear pants.<br /> <br />Anyway, they are mean and one chased me up a tree last week. Luckily, my owner was home to rescue me, but I’m still scared when I go outside.<br />I’m just a little cat with a little voice, but you are a big dog with a big voice. Maybe in your next column, you can ask people to stop dumping cats on other people’s farms. Maybe you can ask Uncle Leo to do the same thing in his next Humane Society update column. If things don’t improve, Ill have to get my own Great Pyrenees dog to protect me. I can’t wait to read your next column.<br /><br />Thanks for listening.<br /><br />Kelley Kitten"<br /><br />Of course I responded immediately to Kelley privately and so did Uncle Lennie, but there are so many cats that have either been abandoned or have been born because the abandoned ones were not spayed or neutered, it's hard to say whether they were dumped out, or whether they just traveled from somewhere else to find Kelley's food source. <br /><br />So, what can be done?<br /><br />1) First off, I suggested that Kelley get a Great Pyrenees dog like me! I think that is a terrific idea! (C'mon, what did you think I would say?)<br /><br />2) PLEASE get your dogs and cats (yes, I am talking about ALL animals) spayed or neutered! Call Foothills Shelter at 863-4444 and do your part to stop this cycle! If money is an issue, just call and they'll be happy to discuss your options. And seriously, run - don't walk - to get your cats spayed or neutered. One unsterilized cat can lead to....well, a real CAT-astrophe! Thankfully, Kelley's humans have done their part and made sure that Kelley and her cohorts are sterilized and can no longer add to the cat overpopulation problem. But every other cat owner needs to do the same!<br /><br />3) Some people mistakenly believe that if they dump an animal out in a rural area, there are enough farms and barns that these animals will find food and shelter somewhere. WRONG! Dumping or abandoning an animal that is a pet and domesticated is unspeakably cruel. It is far better and much more humane to take the animal to the shelter where it will be cared for. If you can no longer keep your pets, at least give them a real chance to find a home through the shelter! <br /> <br />4) If they are feral cats and too wild to tame, call Foothills Shelter and get information about the Po'Kitties program, so these cats can be sterilized. Do your part to stop the cycle of unwanted cats! Sterilization puts an end to nearly all of the "unwanted behaviors" exhibited by these cats (i.e., fighting, spraying, etc.) and the sterilized cats rarely cause trouble for anyone.<br /><br />5) Lastly, kittens are as cute as they come, but why subject even more of them to a life that is not the best? Don't they deserve the chance for a good life? If you want a kitten, go to Foothills Shelter and adopt one! <br /> <br />Kelley Kitten and her humans are the victims of irresponsible pet owners who either do not spay or neuter their animals or who dump and abandon their animals. The only solution is for pet owners in the community to take responsibility! In these hard times, we all have to stick together. Kindness and responsibility can go a long, long way to making our community stronger, healthier, and happier. Not to mention making Kelley Kitten's yard safer and more pleasant! So please be a good neighbor! (You can sing the refrain with me now: Neuter and spay, don't delay!) And please,don't be cruel -- take unwanted animals to Foothills. <br /> <br />Woof! (Meow!)<br /> <br />ChampCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-34216406079813946792009-02-13T21:50:00.001-05:002009-02-13T21:53:24.755-05:002009: "Learning to Care"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-e8v9TRjeOC557JGHgmUv_K_iqVAwhOecZ-IZGng5EsKd3j8E5oV8HeAHYjNXsUTNuvh6uxgMYV4OBONknDbqr0mgelcXXvKK5aR_G3sxEJwY4ioFnEBH6EVO8klFLshPMH3jqCa5aI4x/s1600-h/DSCN3343.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-e8v9TRjeOC557JGHgmUv_K_iqVAwhOecZ-IZGng5EsKd3j8E5oV8HeAHYjNXsUTNuvh6uxgMYV4OBONknDbqr0mgelcXXvKK5aR_G3sxEJwY4ioFnEBH6EVO8klFLshPMH3jqCa5aI4x/s400/DSCN3343.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302480696931046514" /></a><br /><br /><br />I know you all have been eagerly awaiting my "word of the year" for 2009; however, I noticed that not even ONE of my readers sent in a suggestion! Give a big old fluffy fellow a break, will you? I know it took awhile, but I thought of so many important and meaningful words that it took a while to choose, and I had to go with a slogan. Are you ready? Drum roll, please......my slogan of the year for 2009 is "learning to care".<br /><br /> <br />I actually got (stole) this slogan from a couple of my friends that do the Foothills Humane education program, Ruth Kellick-Grubbs and Kathy Toomey. They were giving out pencils with "learning to care" printed on them to the students they visited in the schools. They are bright orange pencils and they are a nice little gift. And I think life is a lifelong process of "learning to care".<br /><br />"Who cares", you ask? I do, for one! I think it is a worthy virtue to teach the children at our schools....not only to learn to care for the animals and those less fortunate than ourselves, but also about other people. There are some folks who become hardened by life and who lose their ability to care or be kind, but if you look around, you will see a whole lot of folks doing kind deeds every day. They have certainly "learned to care" and have not let life's issues cloud what is important.<br /> <br />If we all take "learn to care" as our slogan for 2009, our community will be enriched immeasurably. I myself plan to "learn to care" for the feral cats in the Po'Kitties trap-neuter-return program. It is a great program -- my cat-mates all tell me it is the cat's meow -- and well worth supporting. Let's all commit to learning to care about our community, and each other.<br /> <br />There are many ways you can help out your fellow beings in one way or another, and there are so many great organizations in our beautiful community to volunteer for! Of course I am more than a little biased towards Foothills Humane Society (where, as you may remember, I am privileged to be the Spokesdog) but any of the organizations around would be grateful for your assistance. And if you want to be a volunteer for Foothills Humane Society, just call 863-4444 and ask for Paula.<br /><br />By the way, I visited over at Tryon Estates over the Christmas holiday. I enjoyed seeing everyone and I did, of course, don my Santa hat for the occasion. (Under only mild protest, as I was trying to be good!) I have also been to the Polk Central after-school program and plan on going to more schools over the next few months. So, students, see you soon!<br /> <br />Woof!<br /> <br />Champ<br /><br />PS...It is starting to be that time of year when the shelter will gets lots of puppies and kittens in...so PLEASE consider having your dog or cat spayed or neutered...the price is right if you call the shelter @ 863-4444. It will help us save lives!CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-50889505106207068192008-12-18T21:55:00.000-05:002008-12-18T21:58:03.821-05:002008: Good Riddance!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKh0Nwg1JS85HWudpq5lQ0ZzqEZVVvQujQJcpNqBT9fDyt34TDWV9Qm93-xo7ZFd30l19JrrIP29C5R-_r0g7cJ-syga5fJrj3xamrA550tjcpsRfPoqw3otwau0uLMcvQJHRudetNLz3J/s1600-h/santachamp.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 124px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKh0Nwg1JS85HWudpq5lQ0ZzqEZVVvQujQJcpNqBT9fDyt34TDWV9Qm93-xo7ZFd30l19JrrIP29C5R-_r0g7cJ-syga5fJrj3xamrA550tjcpsRfPoqw3otwau0uLMcvQJHRudetNLz3J/s400/santachamp.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281329863437272898" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Santa has come and gone.....I hope he was very good to each and everyone of you! I was expecting coal and/or ashes and switches, but instead I got a new Santa hat. BLECH! Gee thanks Santa.<br /><br />I am not sure which is worse, probably the switches and my new hat does come in handy when I am visiting folks around Christmas time! Santa did not even bring me "spell checker" software which Mr Millwood at the Tryon Daily Bulletin strongly suggested I should have. Really Joey, oops, I mean Senator Millwood, the big paws just don't get it on the computer keyboard!<br /><br />This year has been a year of ups and downs for many folks.....and as we all know "things" always flow downstream. This has affected the animals of the world as well. There are many more people and animals without a place to call their own.<br /><br />I am blessed enough to have a home and a job, or two, maybe three, if you count my guard dog abilities. How lucky can one dog be?<br /><br />Looking back over this past year, I have visited many different places. and this is my very favorite thing to do. I have met many new folks and enjoyed seeing my old friends as well. The Special Olympics probably had to be the highlight of my year as a therapy dog, but the FENCE Day Camp and local schools and assisted living places were all very special as well...and let's not forget the Farmer's Market with those wonderful doggie biscuits!<br /><br />I have continued my old habits of stealing food, or paper towels, or whatever happens to be on the kitchen counter and chewing them into shreds.....and I have no plans whatsoever for any New Year's Resolutions concerning these forays.... Now that Santa is back at the North Pole until next year, why bother? You would think I would have outgrown this by now as I am no longer a pup, but it gets me the attention which I adore. <br /><br />I have also been blogging this year.....although I will never make it as a twitter, mainly because I am too busy doing all my jobs to stop and twit. I am not talking about the TWIT that is "This Week In Tryon" here but I always look forward to reading their e-letter ( How's that for a plug, Doug?) I have often written about those less fortunate than I, especially the animals, because most of them truly have no voice....well, they do have voices, but sometimes no one listens! And I have tried to pass along information about "humane education", my word of the year, because I think this is a very important concept for all the beings on this planet.<br /><br />I have been trying to decide on my "word for the year" for 2009, and I am open to suggestions. Please email me @ champtherapydog@gmail.com<br />with the word you think I should use and why you think I should use it. I don't know if there will be a prize for the winner, but there might be.<br /><br /><br />Happy New Year! I hope you have the best year yet!<br /><br />As Oprah Winfrey says, "Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right!"<br /><br /><br />Woof <br /><br />CHAMP<br /><br /><br />P.S. If any of you GOOD dogs out there would like to follow in my pawprints and try your hand at becoming a therapy dog, Petpals is going to be having a training session coming up after the first of the year. For more info on this, please call my "trainer" Katie Malone at 864-415-5804.CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-58685678136627902862008-11-17T11:16:00.000-05:002008-11-17T11:21:36.406-05:00Any Soldier, Any Dog 2008<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijXI6Hb5W_u1gRzIu0vN03HySlJ3jp0o-ZwLE9UILE-Ivcezv4jGqRs73DrkJDnGgj-OqmuWXrC_Rn31wd9u_wwIrAZkMNgPCBK5v7CT-ntxGIJooJOtUv2nzhzUGxajg0n-sQDmn7oM62/s1600-h/champ2_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 276px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijXI6Hb5W_u1gRzIu0vN03HySlJ3jp0o-ZwLE9UILE-Ivcezv4jGqRs73DrkJDnGgj-OqmuWXrC_Rn31wd9u_wwIrAZkMNgPCBK5v7CT-ntxGIJooJOtUv2nzhzUGxajg0n-sQDmn7oM62/s400/champ2_.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269661442185571346" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Any Soldier, Any Dog, 2008<br /> <br />Christmas is just around the corner, and it always brings to mind those serving in the military to secure our freedom, far from home over the holidays.<br /> <br />So once again I would like to suggest that if you would like to send Christmas cards, supplies, or gifts to Our Troops overseas, now is a good time to get started.<br /> <br />Over the last few years, I have personally sent dog toys, dog supplies, and dog treats to our Military K9s. This year there are a number of requests from K9 units and kennel masters for dog toys, leashes for large dogs with retractable leads, harnesses and the like. One unit in Afghanistan is requesting canned dog food, and they all want treats that can be carried on missions. <br /> <br />I am currently packing a box for Military Working Dog Handler Brian Meinert in Iraq. His email follows:<br /> <br />"We are the Military Working Dog Section and we each have a dog and they work hard but toys for them are not offered here, they really like kongs, balls, chew toys and other normal everyday house dog items. Our living conditions are not that bad but some things we do need are baby wipes, tissues, personnel hygiene products and other things of that nature, drink mixes, energy drinks. Our entertainment consists of a small variety of DVD's and a TV so if you have some used DVD's you would like to donate to this section where they would stay that would be great. Snacks of all kinds for us and the dogs so when we do go out we have something for the teams. anything will be greatly appreciated by all of us. Thank you for reading this and contributing to all of here in the K-9 section."<br /> <br />I cannot imagine the conditions in which these dogs, and their handlers and the other troops, are living, but I can guarantee that none of them has a bed as soft, warm, and safe as mine (or the one I think is mine!). And my bed is safe because these men, women, and dogs chose to serve our country by leaving their families and putting themselves in harm's way. It is the least I can do to send them things that will make their lives just a little bit better. And I do hope they enjoy the photo of ME in a red, white and blue bandana that I am including in the package!<br /><br />I sent a package to a canine handler a couple of years ago in Iraq and I got the nicest reply and thank you...it was even addressed to Champ on the envelope!<br /> <br /> <br />If you would like to send a letter, card, or package to a member of our military, go to the website and read the emails from our troops. The link is at www.anysoldier.com - because freedom isn't free, just ask any soldier!<br /> <br />And when you are writing your Christmas cards this year, please consider sending one to: "A Recovering Soldier, c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center, 6900 Georgia Avenue,NW, Washington, DC 20307-5001 . <br /><br /> <br />Maybe for Christmas this year, we can all ask for PEACE......and hope that soon these brave men, women, and dogs will be able to come home.<br /><br />Until then, here's to all the working K9s AND their handlers, and to all who continue to sacrifice so much for our freedom. Happy Thanksgiving!<br /> <br />Woof!<br /><br />CHAMPCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-64124981903018395302008-10-27T08:49:00.000-04:002008-10-27T08:53:37.857-04:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5h7ziLgU0sq4q18LWM2BliuOQkAd4-yQ-uPSKsGkCePNp2LJaQsrWfstCRb8q6UxQL_X1SPpLp9V0NhYbcCC3UI-DNrrmey2w092Glq3FFsiskzuhk2VjA-oMLqbbfXPVrMcV3Jw6IyMd/s1600-h/DSCN2727.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5h7ziLgU0sq4q18LWM2BliuOQkAd4-yQ-uPSKsGkCePNp2LJaQsrWfstCRb8q6UxQL_X1SPpLp9V0NhYbcCC3UI-DNrrmey2w092Glq3FFsiskzuhk2VjA-oMLqbbfXPVrMcV3Jw6IyMd/s320/DSCN2727.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261815901701269762" /></a><br /><br />Stop Barking and Go Vote!<br /><br />Because I am neither of the appropriate age or species to vote, I can say what I think about this hullabaloo. After all, I am neither an elephant or a donkey. I am a DOG, but even I know when enough is enough, and I am about at my wit's end with politics this year! I have heard, seen, and read, (OK,maybe not the latter) about some really disturbing assaults, flat-out lies, thefts, and other acts of ugliness and violence over this election. This is ridiculous and I am beyond ready for it to be over!<br /><br />Both parties have made choices, spoken words, and taken actions that have been terribly divisive. Just because someone does not agree with your way of thinking does not make them bad, or stupid, or unpatriotic. It just means that they have a different opinion!<br /><br /><br />If you remember, my words for the year were "humane education", which is a process that encourages an understanding of the need for compassion and respect for people, animals, and the environment, and recognizes the interdependence of ALL living things". (Quote from World Animal Net) That means that every being has a right to be respected for who they are.<br /><br />Why are folks stealing political signs......or painting them black? Why is there so much name-calling? Why is almost every ad on TV negative, and why is everyone slinging mud and assassinating the character of the other candidates? In my not-so-humble opinion, your species has sunk to an all-time low.<br /><br />Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion and beliefs -- that is a sacred right in this country for which men, women, and dogs have all sacrified their lives during times of war. What I don't understand is why some folks have no respect for any opinion but their own.<br /><br />Surely you people have better things to do with your time than to steal or vandalize political signs, or to say hurtful or ugly things to your neighbors. Why not put your anger and frustration to work doing something positive? Why not volunteer to help your neighbors, or the animals, or the planet? You can volunteer to help the political party of your choice! Or volunteer to drive a neighbor to the polls -- no matter who they vote for!<br /><br />At the end of the day, you are the one who will win -- as will the others who choose this path. If we're not here to help each other, well, why are we here?<br /><br /><br />Woof!<br /><br />CHAMP<br /><br />P.S. The Foothills Shelter on Little Mountain Rd. is having their Open House, this Saturday, November 1st from 11am until 2 pm. There will be free food, drinks, CAKE (YUM!), live music, pony rides, and photos with Santa! Dana Bergman will provide excellent music so please come out and enjoy this event...I hope to see you there!CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-7578030605357966662008-10-05T20:50:00.000-04:002008-10-05T20:51:33.353-04:00The Any and All Dog ShowCome One, Come All!<br /><br />Well, where else? The Any and All Dog Show is coming up on Sunday, October 12 at Harmon Field! This fun event is hosted by the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club for the benefit of the Foothills Humane Society. It has become an annual tradition for many folks in these parts and is a great excuse to get outside with your family and other animals!<br /><br />I really hope you dogs will nudge your owners off the couch and out from in front of the TV for this one. Maybe you have what it takes to be the biggest dog....or the smallest dog....or maybe you look like your owner? Do you like to get dressed up? (I don't - last year I lifted my leg on my costume, much to my humans' chagrin.) Do you have the most unusual tail? I did one year! Or do you have the best trick of all the dogs in Tryon? Ha, I wish.....but then, I never did like to obey! And now there is a new class for "family dogs", dogs who may not be related but who live in the same household. Relatives by proxy, as it were. And don't forget, you can show off your very own human if you were adopted from the Foothills Shelter -- there is a special class just for you! This show is not only fun for the dogs and their owners, it is wildly entertaining for the spectators as well. And it is pretty cheap to enter....a buck per class or 5 bucks for all the classes you want to enter....<br /><br /><br />Father Doty will be doing a blessing of the animals at 1:30 pm and I sure could use blessing again this year......maybe this will get me through another year of being a "good" dog. Or maybe not.<br /><br />They decided to have a Tailgate Contest this year.....get it, TAIL gate.....but I have considered going on strike about this. I think the dogs should judge who has the best tailgate spread. We could sample one of everything at each tailgate to decide the winner or, better yet, have the tailgate part be judged on who fixes the best dog food, and I don't mean just ordinary dog food either (blech) but something like peanut butter dog biscuits, or doggie deviled eggs, or peanut butter pupsicles.....I guess you get the picture!<br /><br />The show starts at 2:00 pm but you have to register ahead of time, so plan to arrive between 1:00 and 1:30. I look forward to seeing all of you there -- with any luck, the only outfit I will be wearing this year is my Therapy Dog Vest!<br /><br />P.S. -- a HUGE thank you to all who sent in the absolutely fabulous photos of their pets for the Po'Kitties All Pet Photo Contest. I have been truly amazed at the quality and beauty of these pictures! And<br />don't forget the Awards Ceremony on October 16 at the Red Clover Gallery in Landrum at 6:30pm. My dear friend and admirer, the magnificent Randy Grobe, will be hosting the gala affair, which means it will be a hoot! The photos will be on display at the Gallery from Wednesday, October 15 through Saturday, October 18 during Gallery hours. Stop by and take a look at these terrific photos! I think you will be impressed. <br /><br />The other upcoming event is the Open House at Foothills Humane Society Shelter on Saturday, November 1. My good friend Dana Bergman will provide the music, and there will be food, drinks, and CAKE (my favorite)! There will also be pony rides for the children, and Santa will be available to pose in his sleigh for pictures with you and your pets. Between Santa's butt and my butt, it was a pretty tight fit last year! The Viewers' Choice Award for Best Photo will be announced (from the Po'Kitties All Pet Photo Contest) and if you're really lucky, you might even get to see ME!!<br /><br />Woof!<br /><br /> CHAMPCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-81314064591981813142008-09-20T17:17:00.004-04:002008-10-05T20:57:47.721-04:00Champ: Simply the BEST!<object height="350" width="425"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/f507pTlahq8"> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/f507pTlahq8" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="350" width="425"></embed> </object><br /><br /><br />This is supposed to have the audio from Tina Turner's "Simply the Best", but as you can tell, youtube and I are not having a good day! So hum along when you watch my slideshow!<br /><br />It helps!<br /><br />CHAMP<br /><br />Photo credits to Emily Bartlett and Emmy Summers.CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-56804887041016696552008-08-18T06:36:00.000-04:002008-08-18T06:41:52.543-04:00Check it out!Here is the link to the Po'Kitties All Pet Photo Contest!<br /><br /> <a href="http://sites.google.com/site/pokittiesallpetphotocontest/">Photo Contest Link</a><br /><br />All monies from this will go to help our feral TNR program with spay-neuter costs!CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-17927441849356312482008-08-13T22:28:00.003-04:002008-08-13T22:36:50.896-04:00My New Award from Addie!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhanTqmmoVfk1hmb8mkOIEv4OD2dmz-wEuPAcDQa4jEPs5EUY5G3q5NOx6InNVnEwLKhsmEajP6VL5h1AOFgRciu8CM1S76X62JMGGnmXhCsqy0EsBCiVPEN9DXZJMRcSfraMpoWFvoMIjt/s1600-h/BFF_gold_card_from_Blue.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhanTqmmoVfk1hmb8mkOIEv4OD2dmz-wEuPAcDQa4jEPs5EUY5G3q5NOx6InNVnEwLKhsmEajP6VL5h1AOFgRciu8CM1S76X62JMGGnmXhCsqy0EsBCiVPEN9DXZJMRcSfraMpoWFvoMIjt/s320/BFF_gold_card_from_Blue.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234194809672988050" /></a><br /><br />Check out this cute girl's site! <a href='http://raisingaddie.blogspot.com'>Raising Addie</a>CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-67418651177556438632008-08-03T21:04:00.000-04:002008-08-03T21:06:09.324-04:00My Official Vest!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWvlULCJo6P4HM69r663AgpGlnoF5gRmz5rkiBg8_CQgF3sLaMup_ZqJRIZReaL5ybQo4X5ra-Sl8V3ZjA2fs3VuNLux4moLNgCx2cE6jS9KRBM8zZgcg3kPBACyteq14fCEtbYA0wdvD/s1600-h/champvestfence.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWvlULCJo6P4HM69r663AgpGlnoF5gRmz5rkiBg8_CQgF3sLaMup_ZqJRIZReaL5ybQo4X5ra-Sl8V3ZjA2fs3VuNLux4moLNgCx2cE6jS9KRBM8zZgcg3kPBACyteq14fCEtbYA0wdvD/s320/champvestfence.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230462318253086754" /></a><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />These last few weeks have been pretty hot -- no -- too darn hot! Like most of you, I have been working in spite of the heat. I have been to FENCE Day Camp three times with the Foothills Humane Society. This photo was taken at the camp with the children, and I would like you to notice my new and, I think, extremely handsome Official Therapy Dog Vest. <br /><br /><br />As most of you know, I have routinely been dressed up in all kinds of garbage......er, I mean garb, for the various seasons......the hats, the sunglasses, the light-up antlers, the ties, the bandanas, the abominable black feather boa (and you remember what I did to that), and, of course, the ridiculous orange fright wig I wore for Halloween. I do try to be a good sport about it, but sometimes I have been downright embarrassed by some of my outfits. The children and the folks at the assisted living homes seem to enjoy the "Champ-Wear" though, so I do my best to keep from looking as disgusted as I feel. If the truth were known, however....<br /><br /><br /><br />Now, for the first time, I finally have something that I am proud to wear. It is a (very) bright red vest with an emblem that says: "I Am a Therapy Dog" and underneath that it says, "Sharing Smiles and Joy". I believe it is obvious by the expression on my face that my relief at having an official uniform (as opposed to an "outfit") is great. I do try to bring joy and smiles to all the folks I visit, but would prefer to do so in a vest rather than a rhinestone tiara, thank you very much.<br /><br /><br />I wore my new vest to FENCE Day Camp and I am happy to report that everyone there made quite a fuss over it, and me. It was highly satisfying and hopefully my humans are taking note of this. The children at the FENCE Day Camp were a lot of fun and they were also very well behaved (which matters a great deal to me) during all three visits!<br /><br />I went to check out the Columbus Farmers' Market this past Saturday, and it is a really neat "down home" market. They have lots of local produce, some is even organic. They have everything from okra and blueberries to tomatoes and honey and plants and potatoes and cucumbers, and even some beautiful embroidered towels and crocheted hot pads. And there is a man who sells fresh bread and delicious goat cheese made from goats who are guarded by..........YEP.....a Great Pyrenees livestock guardian dog! (Simply the best!) They have fresh baked doggie cookies there (and the lovely lady gave me one so I can attest to the fact that they are absolutely delicious). They also have some human baked goods that I could only drool over. I think I could really get into those sticky buns....and I believe the nice lady who sells them might be charmed into giving me one if my humans weren't around!<br /><br />I thoroughly enjoyed making the rounds of delicious smells, meeting people and greeting old friends. I met two very well behaved boys whom I really liked and tried to follow around, and I met a very, very small, very, very yappy thing that I am told was actually a dog....hmm....and lots of other folks who all admired me and said what a great dog I was. I believe I need to become a regular. <br /><br />Stay cool. Woof.<br /><br /> <br />CHAMP<br /><br /> P.S. Please start taking some great photos of your pets....(any and all pets, yep, even the horsey ones!) for the Po'Kitties All Pet Photo Contest. Details at www.pokitties.com , click on the link to the contest!CHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-22933495234923043852008-06-23T14:10:00.005-04:002008-06-23T14:15:03.383-04:00NO Excuse!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0O9P1xhG2TD24vSQ2QroMT3SlUkUad6qw8jvGoSccLJfAH22twN9PyTQUTwfn3VecF03vZ1UXbe_WnM2xtCDMvgaUqkg1Jy8Lss8Dw3W3d_Z5DONc5tcdS8c1RoxxtfP7n6glzy5WIyi/s1600-h/champ-+pc+pyramid.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0O9P1xhG2TD24vSQ2QroMT3SlUkUad6qw8jvGoSccLJfAH22twN9PyTQUTwfn3VecF03vZ1UXbe_WnM2xtCDMvgaUqkg1Jy8Lss8Dw3W3d_Z5DONc5tcdS8c1RoxxtfP7n6glzy5WIyi/s400/champ-+pc+pyramid.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215142105570542770" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />"Spay and neuter, spay and neuter" yada, yada, yada.......<br /><br />Are you bored yet? Everyone knows, or should by now, that spaying and neutering cats and dogs is the only answer to the pet overpopulation problem, the problem that causes shelters all over the country to have to euthanize healthy, adoptable pets because there are not enough homes for them.<br />I guess what I don't understand is WHY people still don't spay and neuter their pets! What part of spay and neuter don't they understand??? There is just no excuse for it!<br /><br /><br />"It costs too much money."<br /> WRONG. Foothills Humane Society has the Humane Alliance Program which costs $8.00 to spay or neuter a dog or cat. That’s what lunch costs these days. And if you truly cannot afford that, the Shelter will still help spay or neuter your pet! Call them at 828-863-4444.<br /><br />"I want my dog/cat to have the experience of having a litter."<br />WRONG. I've never had a litter and trust me, I don't miss it. And for you big, macho guys, guess what? I don’t miss running in front of cars or going without eating because I am so obsessed with the scent of a female in heat! And by the way, I’m still as macho as they come!<br /><br />"I'm afraid Fluffy will die going under the knife."<br />WRONG. Fluffy is a whole lot more likely to die having a litter than when she is having surgery, as long as she is healthy.<br /><br />"I work all day and don't have time to take my dog/cat to the clinic."<br />WRONG. Bet you make time to go to the store, or eat lunch and dinner, don't you? You can drop your pet off at the Shelter on Humane Alliance day as early as 6:30 am and if you make arrangements ahead of time with the Shelter, the staff and volunteers will work with you about the timing of picking up your pet. You can also get a coupon from the shelter to help with the cost of spaying or neutering and you can then use the vet of your choice. <br /><br />"I want to breed my terrific hunting dog."<br />WRONG. Just because the parent dog is a good hunting dog does not mean the puppies will be any good. You have a better chance of finding the right dog for you by carefully choosing one at the Shelter. And trust me when I say that a lot of good hunting dogs wind up in the Shelter.<br /> <br />"I love Pumpkin and want her to have just one litter....."<br />WRONG. There are too many dogs and cats already! Sure, you say, you can always find homes for these animals – only sometimes you can’t, and when you do, you are taking one more home away from the homeless ones. And that means that one more pet will be euthanized!<br /><br />"I want my kids to see the miracle of birth."<br />WRONG. You're definitely sending the wrong message on this one. I'm not much of a TV watcher but I know you can rent a DVD or watch the miracle of birth online and not contribute to this terrible overpopulation problem!<br /><br />It's a guy thing."<br />WRONG! Oh, for goodness’ sake.......c'mon guys! Y’all are smarter than that! Be a part of the solution instead of being the problem! It has nothing to do with you and how macho you are. Even a big dog like me knows that!<br /><br />"I just want to let Nature take its course."<br />WRONG, WRONG, WRONG! Isn't there enough suffering and death already without adding to it? This is a simple, inexpensive solution to a lot of different problems!<br /><br />Between 5 and 10 million pets are euthanized -- that is, put to death -- every single year in this country. (Yep, I said between 5 and 10 MILLION.) Imagine the pain of the people who have to euthanize these precious animals....and the tax dollars that have to pay for it! That is almost incomprehensible to me. Closer to home, two weeks ago in the span of only one hour, 17 cats and kittens were brought to the Shelter. One hour! The Shelter only has room for about 45 cats at a time, so you do the math......and you'll know that this is definitely not a good thing.<br />Humans bring litter after litter of puppies and kittens to the Shelter. They are asked if they want help spaying and neutering the parents, but they often have some lame excuse as to why they aren't going to do it! Well, they might not mind that many of the puppies and kittens brought in have to be euthanized, but let me tell you, the Shelter staff minds! They desperately want to adopt out all of the animals but there are just not enough homes!<br />And yes, it is always better to take them to the Shelter than to dump them on the side of the road. At least they will be put to death humanely. When they are dumped somewhere, they can get run over, or suffer and die a slow death of starvation and disease. Some are picked up by good people and brought to the Shelter, but then the staff and volunteers don't know the dog or cat's history and that makes it harder for them. Often they don't get to the Shelter until they have been injured or have gone without food for awhile, or have gotten sick, which makes it harder to adopt them out.<br />I really hope someone out there has some grand idea for getting the word out about spaying and neutering to the folks that need to hear it. If you do, please write to me c/o my blog at the Tryon Daily Bulletin or email me at champtherapydog@gmail.com. Two heads, or in this case, maybe a few hundred heads, are better than one!<br /><br />On a much happier note, I was at Polk Central for the after school program and several of the students formed a pyramid with me in the middle, as you can see in the photo! (Get it? Pyr-amid?) It was a fun time and it amazed me how quickly they managed to do this maneuver!<br /><br />And have I mentioned that the Humane Society is having an auction? As the Official Spokesdog, I would like to say that if anyone has one or more items they would like to donate, please contact Steve King at 859-7054, and he will happily arrange for the items to be picked up.<br /><br /><br />Woof!<br /><br />CHAMP<br />P.S. June is "Adopt a Shelter Cat" month! Please help us save their lives and adopt one today!<br /><br /> Everyone in the picture is approved to have their photos published. The students are, starting at the top and coming down the right hand side of Champ:<br /><br />Calab Byers<br />Regina Dotts<br />Amber Miller<br />Martin Ewing-Macchietto<br />Larry Dyer<br />Chyanne DavisCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-36717077279339244802008-05-13T14:01:00.010-04:002008-05-13T14:12:01.430-04:00Ears to Hear? Eyes to See?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6IkhKlRaUKxjZbFHNrNdYeT_7SUgWn2aV_O2TIs0caQdjPK8vZRZD1TADG4Wf0tQr218tgvLR6XNmzfgRUpD9uVPyRLYKGQ-7Ijcjus2C_-5IAtkvb_xm9dL7kHfUUDrlDC2QZOT7Wi_/s1600-h/DSCN2590.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6IkhKlRaUKxjZbFHNrNdYeT_7SUgWn2aV_O2TIs0caQdjPK8vZRZD1TADG4Wf0tQr218tgvLR6XNmzfgRUpD9uVPyRLYKGQ-7Ijcjus2C_-5IAtkvb_xm9dL7kHfUUDrlDC2QZOT7Wi_/s320/DSCN2590.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199924484610443138" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />First off, I would like to say that I, er, borrowed this title from Jeff Byrd's editorial, <a href="http://tryondailybulletin.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=64&Itemid=94">"Ears to Hear"</a> in the Tryon Daily Bulletin (oops, that would be "Mr" Jeff Byrd to me!). I think his excellent commentary spoke to all of us. If not, it should have.<br /> <br />I am a very lucky dog. I have "ears to hear" and "eyes to see". And we do need to hear and see things that outrage us, or we will never see change occur. These past two weeks I have seen or heard of several incidents that disturbed me greatly. I find it difficult to comprehend how some folks have no respect for any living thing, be it two-legged or four-legged.<br /> <br />A small kitten was hit by a car. The lady (and I use that term advisedly) who was driving, got out, saw the kitten was injured, shrugged her shoulders, got back into the car and drove away. Fortunately for the kitten, there was a kind-hearted Good Samaritan behind her, who got the kitten the care it needed (and who also got a good description of the woman, the car, and the license plate. She will be remembered.)<br /> <br />Another incident that I personally witnessed involved a big old turkey crossing Collinsville Road, not exactly a superhighway. It was in a clear stretch, easy to see and avoid. But the "lady" (ugh) driving never braked or swerved, she just obliterated that turkey. All she did after hitting the big bird was look in her rear view mirror and I'm not sure why. I am hoping it left a turkey-sized dent in her nice looking car. I won't go into detail about the other incidents, which include a cat being thrown from a moving car, but trust me, they are equally dreadful.<br /> <br />I realize that these incidents may seem petty to some, but the truth is, they are not. This complete disregard for life, be it four-legged, two-legged, or winged, is indicative of a sick society. Senseless, mindless, gratuitous violence against any living being is horrific. What are we teaching our children? How do these people look in the mirror? Would you want one of these people as a neighbor? As a friend? Is this the kind of folks we want in our community? On a personal level, I find them scary.....even though I am big !<br /> <br />Mr. Byrd was referring to the divisiveness that comes when people of one race distrust or fear people of a different race, and, to the understanding and respecting of the viewpoint of another. I firmly believe that respect for each other is a moral imperative to each of us. I may be "only a dog" but I know, and try to live by, the golden rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. This sentiment crosses all boundaries, be they racial, religious, national, or interspecies, and speaks to the universal society of which we are all a part. The humans in our community need to show respect for each other and the rest of us living beings, human or animal -- <br />So once again, I am reminded of the two words that I chose to be my "words for the year". "Humane education". We really need to learn to be humane to everyone and everything!<br /><br /><br />I think NOW would be a good time for us to start!<br /><br />Woof!<br /><br />CHAMPCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419767076599975625.post-57799947002340906032008-05-07T10:42:00.003-04:002008-05-07T10:59:26.334-04:00HIP-HIP HOORAY!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWnNLSAAj387cG3EPch30kK7jEKMcQwPh3KYW7WM3cjuIUcjJeS2hVmtUZo8V4ja94NSHiRBtKu9mIffqzAxJ4UQHC0U2YBDfTwG4prg0F3K80RBX9x3tuxgQYqCN5QAZ25Lh5Kc2STu8n/s1600-h/771785100210_0_BG.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWnNLSAAj387cG3EPch30kK7jEKMcQwPh3KYW7WM3cjuIUcjJeS2hVmtUZo8V4ja94NSHiRBtKu9mIffqzAxJ4UQHC0U2YBDfTwG4prg0F3K80RBX9x3tuxgQYqCN5QAZ25Lh5Kc2STu8n/s320/771785100210_0_BG.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197650558004572914" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QQOLWLNiBQs/SCHAnuh5MtI/AAAAAAAAAQg/X-LhZKzXQT0/s1600-h/231785100210_0_BG.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QQOLWLNiBQs/SCHAnuh5MtI/AAAAAAAAAQg/X-LhZKzXQT0/s320/231785100210_0_BG.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197647233699885778" /></a><br />103 cats have now been spayed or neutered as of May 8!<br /><br />Thanks to all the caretakers, volunteers, Po'Kitties' committee members and the Foothills Huamen Society!<br /><br />THANK YOU!<br /><br />We have kittens from a colony that will be up for adoption through the Foothills Shelter...Two are already there...they are DROP DEAD gorgeous...their names are Thor and Tara...check them out here.....www.foothillshumanesociety.org<br /><br />Also..the Po Kittens in the photos above are in foster and will be available shortly! Please hurry as I am about over these cute little Po'kittens!<br /><br />Woof!<br /><br />CHAMPCHAMPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10606892898686247079noreply@blogger.com0