Patrick Star UPDATE

Patrick BEFORE

 In case you missed my original blog post about Patrick, CLICK HERE to read: "Patrick Star."


Many of you remember my special rescue dog, Patrick. 

AKA Patrick Star.

When Patrick came to me last September, he looked like this (see Before Photo, left). Patrick was emaciated, weak, and extremely sick. 




But with lots of love and care, Patrick was able to heal here with me, at Lucky Dog Rescue. 

And today, he looks like THIS:














Yep... that's the SAME dog! 

Today, Patrick is insanely happy, healthy, and fun. He's super-loving and playful, with the sweetest kisses ever and the most adorable little personality.

Rope toys are serious business...

Patrick's new best friend is Wonder (see photo, right). Many of you probably remember her as well... from my many blog posts about my special Wonder-baby, and how Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) forced Wonder from her home and sent her back to me at Lucky Dog Rescue. 

Patrick and Wonder LOVE each other, and they can play together for hours. They love rope toys... each grabbing one end, and tugging on it with all their might... daring the other to let go, so they can "win" the toy. Or... they're content to just "wrestle" for the better part of the day. It's so much fun to watch them, and they bring my heart a crazy-amount of joy.

 

Now that he's all better, Patrick is ready to find his forever family! So, if you're looking to adopt an AMAZING, loving, fun, super-sweet boy who LOVES other dogs and all people, he may just be the perfect pup for you! Patrick is a 1 year old, male, fawn-colored, Pit Bull mix (about 45 lbs). He is neutered, up-to-date on all vaccinations, and heartworm negative. Patrick has the best personality; he's gentle with good manners, but also outgoing and playful. He's well-behaved, super-smart, and housebroken. He'd love to join a family with at least one other dog, because he's really social! [Patrick is available for adoption through Lucky Dog Rescue, Meridian, Mississippi.]

He loves YOU already!

If you think Patrick is the right dog for your family, please click the following link to complete the online Adoption Application: http://luckydogrescueblog.blogspot.com/p/rescue.html 

[NOTE: Wonder is ALSO available for adoption!]

If you'd like to help other dogs like Patrick, please click the link below to donate:
CLICK TO DONATE TO LUCKY DOG RESCUE!

***Link to video of Patrick & Wonder playing: http://youtu.be/Ru8_rWMamDI

Picking Up Reece's Pieces

On Wednesday, I received a desperate answering machine message from a woman named Pat in Gulfport, Mississippi.

The neighbor's Pit Bull mix had finally broken loose from the rope used to tie her to a tree, and the dog immediately fled to Pat's home... and stayed there... seeking refuge. When Pat walked outside that morning, the dog was sleeping on her porch, right next to her cat.

Reece's neck

That's when Pat saw the dog's painful, horrific injuries.
The dog's tie-out rope had clearly been embedded in her neck for quite some time, and the wound was at least 2 inches deep. She also had other scars covering her body.

Seeing the dog's condition, Pat refused to risk the chance that the dog may be returned to the owner, but she also couldn't stand the thought of the dog facing euthanasia.

So, Pat started calling animal shelters and rescues, in search of immediate, legitimate help for this dog.

Of course, due to the "Pit Bull mix" label --coupled with the dog's severe injuries-- Animal Control informed Pat that euthanasia would be their only option for this pup. Therefore, she attempted to contact any animal rescue group she could find.

She left tons of messages, but since rescues are always full and/or overloaded, most of them never called her back. Every other rescue told her, "We don't take Pit Bulls. Try Lucky Dog Rescue."

Again... as I've said many times, Lucky Dog Rescue is NOT a "Pit Bull rescue."
While most of my rescue dogs are, in fact, Pit Bulls, I also rescue many other breeds, and mixes of those breeds. However, since I focus on the worst-cases... and the least adoptable dogs (due to societal bias), then, yes... most of my rescue pups are Pit Bulls. (Plus, I just-so-happen to freaking LOVE Pit Bulls!)

Further, because many animal rescue groups in Mississippi are unable to take Pit Bulls due to Breed Specific Legislation (BSL), and most of the other Mississippi rescues will not take them (for one reason or another), I tend to be the "fall-back."

"If the dog is a Pit Bull, call Lucky Dog Rescue."

So, after Pat exhausted her search for a rescue located somewhere closer to her area than mine, she contacted me.

I was walking a dog when she called, so she left a message. When I got back, I checked the answering machine... and heard the desperation in Pat's voice, as she said: "Please, please, PLEASE call me! I'm so desperate to save this dog! She needs help right away, and I've been told you're the only person who will help me! Please!!!"

So, I took a deep breath, picked up the phone, and returned her call.

When she answered, I said: "Hey, Ms. Pat. It's Ashley with Lucky Dog Rescue, returning your call."

Reece, when she arrived at Lucky Dog Rescue

Through obvious tears, she responded: "Oh, Ashley!!! Thank you for calling me back, honey! I've left messages with rescues all over the state this morning... begging people to call me back. You're the only one who did."

I said: "Ms. Pat, I have to be honest with you. As much as I want to help this poor dog, I'm beyond over-loaded with rescue dogs right now, so I'm not really sure that I can help. But I promise I'm willing to do everything I can to try and find someone else who can."

Then... I heard sobbing on the other end of the line.

She cried: "Ashley, please! I am begging you! I've already tried everyone else. Anyone who was willing to talk to me... was only willing to help... by giving me your number. If you can't help this dog... you and I both know... no one will... and she will die!"

I knew she was right, but I just needed a minute to think. So, I promised to call her back, and then, I hung up.

Shortly thereafter, with no plan in mind... I picked up the phone and called Pat again. Honestly, at that moment, I had no idea what I was even going to say to her... but I knew she was desperate for help, so I didn't want to make her wait any longer.

Well, before I could even give her an answer about whether or not I was able to help, Pat said: "Ashley, I want you to know... if you're willing to help this baby, then I'm willing to make the 3 hour trip from here to Meridian to bring this dog to you."

Suddenly, without another thought, I simply said: "When can you be here?"



Reece, on our way to the vet

The next morning, Pat and her husband drove more than 3 hours to deliver my new baby to Lucky Dog Rescue.

When they arrived, it was love at first sight.
I named her Reece.

That day, I began the process of picking-up the pieces of Reece's broken heart... and putting her back together again...

And in return, Reece's smile reminded me... of what I do... and why I do it. It's never about me. It's always about them. And when they really need you... you always find a way...

*Reece has a long road of recovery ahead of her. In addition to her severe injuries & massive level of infection, she is also heartworm positive, which requires extensive, costly treatment. If you'd like to contribute to Reece's care and her future, please click the link below to donate:

CLICK TO DONATE TO LUCKY DOG RESCUE!

The Last Tornado Survivor

My new baby, Benny



Over the last few months, I've written several blog posts about the F5 tornado that devastated the city of Tuscaloosa, Alabama on April 27, 2010. 

On that tragic day back in April, I watched the news footage in horror... as a massive, violent tornado swept through the city of Tuscaloosa --a city I've loved all of my life-- wiping away nearly everything in its path.

Why do I love this particular town so much?

I was lucky enough to spend 4 incredible years of my life at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa (Roll Tide!). It was my home. During that time, I studied; I learned; I drank; and I lived. As far as life lessons go, I learned most of them there. And so much of who I am today... I became in Tuscaloosa.

For those reasons, and many more, Tuscaloosa holds a very special place in my heart.

But on April 27, so much of my special town was wiped away. Many residents lost everything. Many people and animals lost their lives. Suddenly, nothing was the same.

My new baby, Millie

Following the storm, I contacted my dear friends at the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter. It was obvious that they were completely overwhelmed by the massive number of storm animals suddenly in their care... but they never once complained. They handled this heartreaking, crisis situation like absolute pros, and I was so proud of my amazing friends.

At that time, I immediately offered to take the storm dogs in the worst condition... those that no other rescues would take. Tuscaloosa Metro was so gracious and appreciative for my help, and soon, I'd take 5 of their special needs tornado surivors into my care: Heidi, Wink, Catie, Tucker, and Marco. I'd also take Melody, a tornado survivor from the Huntsville, AL shelter.

Of course, these were the dogs with the biggest medical needs... and the largest vet costs. In addition... each dog's heart had been broken more than once in their life. So, obviously, this was an expensive, emotional undertaking for me. But honestly... it's one of the best decisions I've ever made.

So... you may be wondering why I'm writing about this again today...

Just before Thanksgiving, Kelley with the Tuscaloosa Metro shelter gave me a call. She said, "Ash, I know it's your craziest time of year, but I really need your help with 2 dogs. Is there any chance at all that you can make room for 2 more?"

I responded, "If you can give me until after the holiday, I'll try my best to figure something out..."

One of those dogs was the last tornado survivor still living in the shelter. The other was a male, who was no longer wanted by his family.

Well, if you know me... you already know that I "figured something out." Lucky Dog Rescue... would be taking 2 more...

And so... nearly 8 months after the storm, I made the decision to rescue the final tornado survivor, and another desperate male dog, from Tuscaloosa Metro.

Here are their stories...

Millie

Millie was the last tornado survivor at the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter. After the horrific storm nearly took her life, Millie ended up at the shelter. For the last 7 months, she's been waiting there... hoping for a family... with no luck.

Despite the horrors of her past, Millie is full of life, love, and hope. She's a spunky girl with tons of personality. She loves to run and play, but she's also content just to cuddle right by your side. Millie loves other dogs, children, and all people. Her only wish in life... is for a family of her own.

Millie is a young, female, mixed breed. She's small/medium in size, and absolutely adorable! However, Millie is heartworm positive, so she'll be starting treatment this week. Once her treatment is complete, she'll be spayed, fully vaccinated, heartworm negative... and ready for the family of her dreams...
*If you're interested in adopting my Millie, please fill out Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption

Benny

Benny was brought into the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter as a stray. Soon thereafter, the shelter was able to locate his owners... who said they no longer wanted him.

Even though Benny's only wish was to go home, his family denied his request. And ever since... he's been waiting... for someone to take him home again...

Benny is a 2 year old, male, American Bulldog mix. He's absolutely gorgeous and super-smart! Benny has tons of energy, and he loves to run and play with other dogs. He's also a big cuddle bug, who loves to snuggle on the couch. However, Benny can be quite the escape artist, so I'll be working with him to correct that behavior. He's neutered, fully vaccinated, and heartworm negative.

Now... he just wants to go home...

*If you're interested in adopting my Benny, please fill out Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption

I could really use help with Benny & Millie's vet costs. Please click the donate link below if you can help. Thank you!

CLICK TO DONATE TO LUCKY DOG RESCUE!

Marco

Meet Marco. He's awesome.

Earlier this year, Marco survived the F5 tornado that devastated the city of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The storm was horrific, terrifying... and deadly. Honestly, he shouldn't even be alive today.

After the storm, Marco ended up in the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter.

However, the Marco that arrived at the shelter... looked very different from the Marco you see today...

Marco has severe allergies. But apparently, his former family never cared enough to accommodate his needs, because he arrived at the shelter... in immense physical pain, with almost no hair on his body.

Following an allergy test, the shelter began to feed and care for Marco based on his specific needs. Then, they called me.

After the storm, I'd made the offer to take the survivors in the worst condition. Obviously, Marco fell into that category.

So... we arranged transport from the shelter in Tuscaloosa, Alabama to Lucky Dog Rescue in Meridian, Mississippi. When he arrived here, Marco joined 5 of his fellow storm survivors: Heidi, Catie, Wink, Tucker, and Melody.

Since then, I've watched Marco heal, and grow, and flourish. I've watched Marco come to life.

Today, Marco is so happy. He's so healthy. He's so loved... and he knows it.

Today, Marco loves life. He loves cuddling. He loves running. And he loves playing with other dogs. Each day, I'm so honored to watch my special little boy... prancing through the grass without a care in the world. It's such a stark contrast from the life he's always known... a life of stress and pain and heartbreak. A life... that really... just wasn't a life at all.

Today, Marco lives a life worth living... a life that he never knew was possible. With every precious glance, I can see the gratitude shining through his eyes.... the happiness radiating from his smile... and the love pouring from his heart. With every kiss, I can almost hear the words... "Thank you. This is all I ever wanted..."

Now that Marco is healed... he needs a special family. Marco is a 1-2 year old, Husky mix. He's fully-vetted, including neuter, vaccinations, and monthly heartworm preventative. He loves other dogs -- both large and small-- and he likes cats and children as well. He's extremely well-behaved, with excellent manners and a calm, gentle spirit. He enjoys playtime and walks on the leash, but he's also happy just to cuddle by your side. Marco is available for adoption with Lucky Dog Rescue in Meridian, Mississippi, but transport can be arranged to the perfect family in another area.

Marco has lived his entire life... with only 2 small wishes: to know a life without pain, and to know a life of love. And honestly, the pain would've been worth it to him... if he'd just had the love.

But I want to show Marco... that he doesn't have to choose. I want him to finally understand... that he can have both. Please... help me make Marco's dreams come true. Help me send my baby home.

*Even if you can't adopt Marco, PLEASE SHARE this post... so his family can find him!
If you are interested in adopting my Marco, please fill-out the online Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption

CLICK TO DONATE TO LUCKY DOG RESCUE!

Rainy Day Toby

A few weeks ago, I was finishing-up at Lucky Dog, when a severe thunderstorm hit. I'd been planning to run a couple of errands after work, so I was pretty pissed about the sudden, ridiculous, thunder-and-lightning-out-of-freaking-nowhere downpour that randomly came to town.

I stood there for a second, trying to decide whether or not I should get out in the nasty storm. Well...  I'm a completely ridiculous person, so I decided: Yes, Ashley. Brilliant plan.

Of course, I never seem to have a freaking umbrella when I need one, so another genius thought popped into my head: Umbrellas are overrated. Just run like a moron.

When I got into my car --completely soaked and freezing-- I realized just how stupid this little idea really was. But regardless... I'm an idiot, so I started my car and drove away.

When I got to the highway, I realized that I wasn't the only dumbass who decided to drive in this mess. There were a lot of other idiots taking joyrides that day. Sure, they were probably all driving toward home... instead of away from it. But that's not the point here. The point is... I had company.

Even with my windshield wipers on full-blast, I still couldn't see much of anything. But... because I'm so damn stubborn (and stupid), I turned onto the highway anyway. And at a speed of about 5 mph, I figured I'd arrive at my destination... sometime before next week.

Suddenly, I saw another car up ahead of me, quickly swerving from one side of the road to the other. I could see that they'd almost hit something, and I watched them speed away.

So... I inched closer, trying to make out the object that they'd almost nailed in the middle of the road.

And that's when I saw him...

There was a black dog, aimlessly wandering in the middle of the highway. The rain was violently beating down on him, and I knew that he must be freezing and terrified. Especially since his life was almost taken by that reckless car, who didn't even stop to check on him, after they almost killed him.

Well... if you know me, then you already know what happened next. During one of the worst thunderstorms we'd had here all year, I pulled my car over to the side of the highway, turned on my flashers, and stepped out into the ridiculous downpour.

I walked out into the middle of the busy highway, in the pouring rain, and offered my hand to the shivering dog. He looked up at me, with these big, desperate eyes that said: "Please help me."

I didn't think twice. I picked him up, threw him over my shoulder, and ran back through the rain, toward my car. I loaded him up and drove away.

I stopped at a near-by gas station, and asked the man behind the counter if he'd ever seen this dog before. He said, "Yep. That dog comes up here every day. He ain't got no family. He's just been wanderin' around here for months, lookin' for scraps."

That was all I needed to hear. I got in the car, and headed back toward Lucky Dog. As I was driving, it suddenly hit me... Holy crap, Ash. You just took in another dog. I didn't have room for another dog, and I'd promised myself that I wouldn't take any more pups until some space opened up.

But desperate times call for desperate measures, and this poor dog needed help. And I couldn't deny that I was meant to save him... since he was placed directly in my path that day.

We pulled up at Lucky Dog, and, once again, ran through the rain like idiots. The dog was shivering uncontrollably, so I gave him a nice, warm bath. Afterward, I wrapped him up in a big, snuggly blanket and held him in my lap.

Then, it was time to pick a name. I said, "Are you a Toby?" He looked up at me, and then kissed me on the cheek. I responded, "Alrighty then.Toby it is."

Toby is a gorgeous, 1 year old Black Lab. He's super loving and gentle, and he's extremely well-behaved. He loves to play with other dogs, and he loves children. He even likes Mister Kitty!

Toby loves to cuddle. He loves car rides. He loves walks on a leash. Basically, he loves everything, and he will love YOU. He's been fully-vetted, including vaccinations, neuter, and heartworm treatment. Now, he just needs a family to love him forever.

For months, Toby has lived as a stray dog on a busy highway... without food, water, or shelter. Now, he has one wish: to finally go home. Please help him. Everyone deserves to go home for the holidays...

*Toby is available for adoption with Lucky Dog Rescue in Meridian, Mississippi. Transport can be arranged to amazing adopter. Adoption application, home check, contract, & fee are required.

UPDATE: TOBY HAS BEEN ADOPTED!

CLICK TO DONATE TO LUCKY DOG RESCUE!

A Penny for Your Thoughts

Meet Penny. Penny was an Owner Surrender.

When she was just a tiny puppy, Penny lived in a happy home, as the treasured family pet. Back then, she was small and cute and cuddly. Back then, she was special. 

Back then, Penny was the children's best friend. She was their super-awesome secret keeper, super-fun playtime pal, and super-snuggly bedtime buddy. They loved her... and she loved them.

But the children grew up... and Penny did, too. And suddenly... she wasn't so special anymore. Her life of love inside the home... was replaced with a life alone outside the home.
Bedtime snuggling was replaced with a concrete porch.
"I love you" was replaced with "Ew, go away." 

Her best friends found other best friends... and then... they forgot about her altogether. The secret-telling stopped. Her cuddles quickly ended. Playtime was no more.

Through the window, Penny would watch the children... as they smiled and laughed and played... without her. With an innocent grin and a wagging tail, she'd wait for them to notice her. With desperate eyes and a hopeful heart, she begged to join the fun. But even when they glanced her way, it was only to ignore her. Or even worse than that... to wish her away.

Penny couldn't understand. What happened? What changed? Did I do something wrong? Most days, they forgot to feed her. Some days, she had no water. Every day, she barely existed... to the family she loved so much. 

But even still, Penny never blamed them. Because she couldn't have imagined... that they actually meant to forget her. 

So... being a very smart girl, who loves her family, Penny thought, "Hey! Maybe they don't even know that I'm back here!" And that's when she learned to get out of the fence, run around the house, and wait by the front door for her family. 

In her heart, she truly believed that this would please them. She assumed they'd be excited to see their special Penny again. So, she'd wait... by the door, for her family to get home... thinking they'd finally invite her back into their lives. 

But they didn't invite her inside. Instead, they yelled at her, beat her, and threw her back into the yard. Her heart was broken... she just couldn't understand: I thought they wanted me. I thought they needed me. I thought they loved me... like I love them.

I thought they'd be as excited to see me... as I was to see them...

Every day, Penny would repeat the same process... escaping, waiting, and being tossed back into the yard. But Penny never meant to misbehave, or run away, or upset them. She just wanted to see them... even if only for a second. Even if that second... would only result in yet another crack... in her already broken heart. 

For Penny, it was worth it, to wait by the door, all day long, for her family... to endure the abuse and rejection upon their arrival. For Penny, it was worth it... just to see her family today. 

But Penny's family didn't want to see her, and soon, her "behavior issues" caused them to hate her. So, they decided to dump her at the animal shelter, where Penny was to be killed immediately... because of her breed: Pit Bull.

On the day they planned to dump her--the day she would've been killed--the family mentioned their plan to a neighbor. Then, that neighbor called me.  

I quickly called the family and told them the deadly consequence for Penny if they dumped her at the pound. Sadly, they didn't care. I asked them to give me a little time to find a foster home. They said No. I said, "I'm telling you that your dog will be killed today, and I'm offering you an alternative! You don't think she deserves that much??"

The next words out of this woman's mouth... weren't new to me. I've heard this many times before, and I'm certain I'll hear it again. But the coldness behind those words... never shocks me any less. And every single time, my heart stops.

She said, "The shelter can kill her... or we will shoot her here. Either way, that dog's going today!"

I didn't have room to take another dog that day. I never planned to do so, either. But I wasn't going to run the risk of Penny being shot and killed by her family. My heart was so broken, at the thought of Penny seeing her family come outside... and excitedly running toward them... thinking they were finally coming to play with her... finally coming to invite her inside... finally coming to say "I love you" ... 

And then, I pictured the heartbreaking disbelief in Penny's eyes... as the family she loved so much... pulled the trigger to end her life.

It took me all of 2 seconds to say I'd take her. And just that quickly... on the day she was meant to die... Penny became a Lucky Dog, instead.

That day was months ago. Each day since, Penny has waited for her family. As she stares into the distance... I know she's watching out for them. In her heart, I know she truly believes that they'll come back for her one day soon. And in her eyes, I see the unimaginable love and devotion... for the family who wanted her dead.

Penny can never go back to that home (Thank God, right?). And even though she's so loved here with me... her heart won't fully heal, without a family to call her own. For now, "home" is only a distant memory for Penny. Please, help me change that for her. Share her story.

*Penny is a 2 year old, Pit Bull mix. She loves other dogs, children, and all people. She's such an adorable girl, with a super-fun personality to match. Penny is spayed, up-to-date on vaccinations, and heartworm negative. Transport can be arranged to approved adopter.

UPDATE: PENNY HAS BEEN ADOPTED!!!
 

CLICK TO DONATE TO LUCKY DOG RESCUE!

Adopt A Dog

Penny, available for adoption

So... you want to adopt a dog? Well, you came to the right place.

Maybe you're looking for an animal rescue group to support? You're in luck again.

Maybe you'd like to volunteer for an animal shelter? Jackpot! I need you!

Or maybe you want to find a charity and donate to animals in need? Look at that... you found one!

I write this blog for many reasons. I write to share my personal experiences in animal rescue... the highs, the lows, and the in-betweens. I share the joys of pet adoptions, the sadness of the losses, and the realities behind the daily grind of running a dog rescue shelter. 

Heidi, available for adoption

I write to connect with other animal rescues, to encourage others to get involved, and hopefully, to inspire change.

But of course, I'm also writing in an attempt to find amazing homes for my own rescue dogs, as well as to drive support toward my cause. The need for this help is always behind my words... because, honestly, I can't go on without it...

I have so many incredible rescue dogs for adoption, and they deserve amazing homes. I want nothing more than to give them the families they deserve, but I need your help!

If your family is ready to adopt a pet, please consider adopting one of my deserving dogs! If you can't adopt right now, but you'd still like to help, PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SHARE MY ADOPTABLE DOGS, so that their families can find them and take them home. It may not seem like much, but this small act has the potential to make a world of difference for my babies.

Also, as always, animal rescue efforts can't continue without donations. If you're able to give anything at all, PLEASE CLICK HERE TO DONATE to Lucky Dog Rescue! Every little bit is truly life-changing, and life-saving, for these dogs!!! Also, PLEASE SHARE my donate link with your friends as well!

Thank you for caring enough to make a difference for my dogs! They deserve the world... thanks for helping me give that to them!

Maddie Update

On June 13, 2011, I rescued Maddie. 

That day, Maddie was completely broken. And sadly... I'm not referring to her poor physical condition. 

Yes, Maddie was very sick. She was suffering from a severe case of demodectic mange, which had forced her to live in agonizing pain for most of her life. In addition, her body was covered in hundreds of ticks, and she also had eye and ear issues. But that wasn't what struck me most about Maddie... 

I was most struck by Maddie's spirit. 
Maddie's heart was completely broken.
And mine was, too.

Little Maddie had been beaten down by the cruelty of the world. For months, she'd waited... on the side of a busy highway... for someone --anyone-- to help her. 

And for months... no one stopped for her.

Eventually, Maddie lost all hope... and she waited to die. By the time help finally arrived, Maddie's spirit was already dead. 

When she came into my home, I quickly began the process of healing Maddie's mange... but my primary focus was to heal Maddie's heart. And while the opportunity to witness her physical transformation has been truly amazing... nothing has been more incredible than watching Maddie's spirit come back to life...

Maddie's road to recovery wasn't easy. She was in a great deal of physical pain... but it was the ever-so real pain in her heart that caused her to cry out in sadness much of her early days with me...
 
But I showered her with affection, and soon, Maddie learned to trust. She learned to smile, to play, and to dance. She learned from me, and she taught me, too. Together, our hearts became whole. 

Today, Maddie is a tribute to the transforming power of love. Love alone healed Maddie. Sure, mange baths and meds healed her skin. But love healed Maddie's heart... so that her spirit could return.

And wow... what an incredible spirit this girl has...
 
Maddie loves love. Maddie loves other dogs. Maddie loves playtime, and breakfast time, and toy time. Maddie loves yards for running, and couches for napping. She loves hugs, kisses, and special snuggles. 

Today... Maddie loves life.

So now, my greatest wish is to give my Maddie Moo the family she deserves. And even though my heart will break to pieces when she leaves me for her forever home... the time has come to make her final wish come true...

Maddie is spayed, up-to-date on vaccinations, and heartworm negative. In addition, she's housebroken and extremely well-behaved. I've rehabilitated a lot of pups, but I'm honestly blown away by the amazing dog Maddie has become. In truth, she's perfect.

Most of her life, Maddie waited on the side of the road for someone to help her... for someone to give her a chance to be special. Now, Maddie waits again... for someone to take her home.  

Please... help me make Maddie's dream of a family come true. Show her that she's truly special by sharing her story. On June 13, she needed me, and I was there for her. Now, she needs you. Please don't let her down.

If you're interested in adopting my Maddie, 
CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT THE ONLINE ADOPTION APP!

Maddie, Heaven-Sent

The other night, I received an email from one of my friends, Vanessa Ryan. She needed my help.

Vanessa was driving down an old, Alabama highway... when she saw one of the most heartbreaking, neglected dogs she’d ever seen.

In days prior, many others had driven down that same highway… and seen the same dog…

Yet... no one stopped. Instead... the others turned their heads, shielded their children’s eyes, and ignored the obvious suffering in front of them. Not one person cared enough to help… until Vanessa came along.

She immediately stopped her car, opened the door, and got out to do something about it. When Vanessa reached out her hand, the dog was so afraid… and in so much physical agony… that this dog cowered, on the scorching pavement... and began to cry. Her tiny whimpers said, “Please help me. I’ve been waiting for months... for someone to help me.”

The whimpering of this wounded soul broke Vanessa’s heart, so she picked-up the sick little girl, put her in the car, and drove home.

Her email said, “Ash, I need your help. I know you’re already overloaded, and I promise I’m not asking you to take this dog. I’m just hoping... maybe you can help me find someone who can.”

Then, I scrolled down and viewed the attached photo.

Sometimes, a photo... can make my heart stop beating for a second. While I’m rarely shocked anymore, I can still feel the pain of the tortured souls in my own body… and I'm incapable of looking away. For this particular dog, the obvious neglect was heartbreaking. The photo conveyed one of the worst cases of demodectic mange (demodex) I’ve ever seen.

But it also conveyed one other thing… hope. This dog has been given no reason to “hope” anymore. So, it’s amazing, despite the abuse and neglect she has suffered, that she has any shred of hope left.

Demodex thrives on time and neglect... and this girl has clearly been suffering for most of her short life. Demodectic mange is a non-contagious form of mange caused by the Demodex canis mite. These mites occur naturally in the hair follicles of most dogs, and usually, the mites don’t cause any problems. However, the mites can rapidly reproduce... when a dog is under immense stress, has an impaired immune system, or is suffering from malnutrition.

In those cases, the dogs suffer from severe skin inflammation, which leads to intense scratching, discomfort, pain, hair loss, and secondary infection. Hair loss usually begins around the face, limbs, and paws... but when left untreated.. can extend to the entire body. Dogs with demodex live in sheer agony.

Yet, people rarely stop to help them... fearing that they may “catch” the dog’s mange. However, demodectic mange is not contagious to humans... so there’s no excuse to turn your head when you see an animal in this condition. Demodex may cause them to look like monsters, but trust me: their hearts are more wounded than their bodies... and they need you.

I responded to Vanessa’s email, and simply said, “Can you get her to Meridian?”

So, on Monday, Maddie made the trip to me. When I met her, Maddie was utterly terrified --and in obvious pain. She trembled when I introduced myself, and she whimpered... as I lifted her and gently placed her in my car. She cried all the way home…

I carried her into the house, but she just cowered by the door in fear. So, I decided to sit on the floor, by the door too. I gave her medication for the pain, started treatment for the mange, and then rubbed her and said, “Please don’t cry. It’s okay now, I promise.”

She started to whimper, then crawled into my lap... and cried herself to sleep. I cried myself to sleep that night, too.

After her vet visit the next day, Maddie started to open up a little more. She began to follow me around the house, as she became increasingly curious about this whole “being inside” thing. Then… she started to smile…

That day...  just so happened to be the day that my IRS 501(c)(3) letter arrived, and I was able to share one of the biggest moments of my life with Maddie. I was so excited when I saw the letter, and Maddie was, too. In that moment, I picked up her front paws and we did our special Maddie-Moo-Happy-Dance. As we danced... her smile was so big... and when I put her paws down, she jumped right back up to do it again. So, we danced around the living room and the kitchen… and then... I stopped for a minute... to acknowledge the weight that moment.

I sat down and cried… for everything that this particular day meant to me… and also... for having Maddie to share it with.

But this time, Maddie didn’t cry. This time, Maddie smiled and comforted me… the very act I’d done for her... just the day before.

I looked at my letter… and I looked at Maddie… and in that moment, I felt Rudy’s love so strongly in my heart. I don’t always feel him here with me anymore… he’s been gone for almost a year… but at that moment, I knew that he was there.

And finally... I understood... why he had to leave me. He had to go, so this moment could be possible. I felt him saying, “Since I couldn’t be there today... I sent Maddie there... to share this with you instead. I’m so proud of you, Mom.”

In the photos I took with my letter... you can’t see her, but Maddie is lying on the floor just below me.

 But… there’s one other thing you may not have noticed. There are 2 orbs of light, to the right of me in the picture. I truly believe in my heart, that the larger orb --the one closest to me-- is my Rudy. He was right next to me on my big day. And the smaller orb, is Rudy’s best friend in Heaven, my Annie.

Thank you, Rudy and Annie, for guiding me through this life. And thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for sending Maddie to me. Today, I know.... that she’s truly a gift from Heaven.

*Maddie’s has a long road of recovery ahead, due to the severity of her condition.

Click here to donate for Maddie

Adoptable Dogs: New Pics!!!

Mimi

My name is Mimi, and I want a family to love me. I had a family once… I was a treasured family pet and the children’s best friend. When I was a young pup, the children loved me so much, and oh how I loved them. Every day, they would feed me, walk me, and snuggle with me at bedtime. Those times will be forever treasured in my heart…

But the children grew up, and so did I… and suddenly, I wasn’t so special anymore. They kicked me out of the house, and made me live outside. They forgot to feed me; they forgot to walk me; and they forgot all about our special bedtime snuggles. They never even looked at me anymore. When I’d run up to greet them--as I always had--they’d say, “Ew! No! Go away! You stink!” So I would bow my head and slowly walk away… Heartbroken.

One day, my family dumped me at a shelter… and they never even looked back. I cried out for them, but they just hurried out the door. I guess they couldn't get away from me fast enough... After years of my unwavering love and devotion, they threw me away. I didn’t know my heart could hurt this bad…

I’m an adult, female Pit Bull mix, and I am super loving and loyal. I love people! If you love me, I love you. I like boy dogs better than girls, and I prefer an older male to a young pup. I like to roll in the grass and enjoy the sunshine, and I love belly rubs. My foster mom, Ashley, says I’m her little angel.

Most of all, I love having a family. I love to matter to someone. If you are looking for a special girl, can I be the one? Please… I need you.

If you’d like to adopt me, please fill out online Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption/

Melody

My name is Melody. I’m a 10 year old, Pit Bull mix. I’ve lived my whole life on a chain… never able to run and play. Never touched by a loving hand. I was so sad every day… for 10 whole years.

Then, one day, a big scary tornado came through. I saw it coming, but I couldn’t get away… because of the chain. So I had to stay out there, while a tornado threw me around in the air & the chain choked me real bad. My house took a direct hit, and everything was gone… everything except for me.

I was without food and water for a long time, and then I ended up at the pound. It was real scary for me, and I prayed every day that my family would come save me. But my heart was broken, when they left me there to die.

One day, a nice man named Adrian took me from the pound, and then he got me to my Ashley-Mom! Ever since I’ve been here, I’ve been the happiest girl around! I LOVE to run and play outside! I’ve never been able to run before now! It’s so fun… it’s my new thing! I also like to be inside with you… snuggling or chewing a toy at your feet. I’m not a huge fan of other dogs, so I’d prefer to be the only dog in the home. Will you take me home with you forever? I promise to love you with my whole heart!

If you’d like to adopt me, please fill out online Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption/

Teddy

My name is Teddy. I’m a 5 month old, male, Boxer mix. As a pup, I was faced with being put-to-sleep. My brothers and sisters were all real scared too, because we had tried to be real good. Thankfully, my Ashley-Mom saved all 8 of us. But now, almost all of my brothers and sisters have left me for their forever families.

For 5 months now, I’ve been looking for my own family, but they haven’t found me yet. I was supposed to get adopted 2 times now, but it fell through both times because of things that weren’t my fault. Every day, I hope this day will be different.

 

My Ashley-Mom says I have the most fun, outgoing personality of any pup around! I LOVE dogs, and I love LOVE people! I love bathtime and hoses, because the water makes me smile. If you spray a hose, I’ll gladly open my mouth to take a sip. I love playtime outside, and inside cuddles. I love to sleep on the couch next to you, or on a comfy pup bed. I love treats and bones too, and I’m a boy who likes to eat a good dinner! I smile all the time, and it makes me happy when everyone else smiles too. But my smile will never be so big, as the day I get to finally go home.

I'm neutered, fully vaccinated, dewormed, and on heartworm preventative. I’m as healthy as a pup can be! All I need now is a family. Are you my mom or dad? If so, can you take me home? I’ve been waiting for you my whole life.

If you’re interested in adopting me, please fill out the online Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption

Brody

My name is Brody. I’m a 5 month old, male, Boxer mix. I’m Teddy’s brother, and I look up to him a lot. When we were babies, we weren’t real sure what would happen to us. But Teddy always made me know that things would be okay. When our Ashley-Mom saved us, I knew that Teddy was a smart brother because he'd told me it would all be okay, so I try to be just like him.

My Ashley-Mom says I have a loving personality that can melt your heart. I like to give hugs and kisses, and I love to snuggle by your side. But I also LOVE other pups, and I could play with them all day long! I’m smaller than Teddy, but I can give him a run for his money when we wrestle! After I run and play, I like to cuddle with someone who loves me. That’s why I’m looking for my family… so I can have that love forever.

I’m neutered, fully vaccinated, dewormed, and on monthly heartworm preventative. I guess the only thing that’s left is finding a forever home. I’ve been alive for what seems like forever, but I’d never had a home of my own. I hope it’s not because no one wants me… I hope I’m special enough. Maybe you could take me home with you? All I ask is for a little love, and I’ll give you all of my love in return. Please make my wish come true. Take me home.

If you’re interested in adopting me, please fill out the online Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption

Heidi

My name is Heidi (formerly known as Grandma because of my age). I am a Senior Pit Bull mix. All my life, I have lived on a chain that I called "home." People have never treated me real nice, but I always loved them anyway. When I was younger, those people decided to cut my ears off with a knife at our house. I cried and squealed, but they wouldn’t stop until my ears were gone. I was left with no ears at all, because they wanted me to look mean. So now, people are scared of me sometimes. But I promise I would never hurt anyone.

I have been bred more times than I can remember. Even though I didn’t want to have more puppies, those mean people didn’t care. They rarely fed me and never loved me. All of this makes me sad... because I’ve never been anything more than a chained breeder dog.

On April 27, 2011, I was lying in the dirt on my chain, like I always do, when the weather started to get real bad. Then, a big tornado swept through and tried to take me with it. It was the scariest thing that’s ever happened to me. But I fought to survive on my chain in the storm… and I did survive. Only to end up at the pound.

But I was surprised to learn that the people there were real nice, because that’s the first time anyone’s ever been kind to me. The shelter staff said I was one of their favorites, and I’ve definitely never been special. Then, those nice people did the nicest thing anyone’s ever done for me. They got me to my Ashley-Mom.

My Ashley-Mom says I’m a fun girl with a great personality. I smile almost all the time now, and she says I make her smile too. I like to play with other big dogs and love running in the yard. I’m real smart and have learned to sit and shake. All I need now is a family to love me forever. For my whole life, I’ve dreamed of coming inside and being part of a family. Please make my wish come true. Please make me special for the first time ever.

If you’d like to adopt me, please fill out the online Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption/

Wink

My name is Wink. I’m a 2 year old, male, Lab/Pit Bull Mix. For the last 2 years, I’ve been living on a chain. Never free to run. Never taken for a walk. Never given any love or attention. I know what it’s like to be hungry… because the food was never there. I know what it’s like to be sad… because that’s all I’ve ever been. I know what it’s like to be lonely… because that’s all I’ve ever known.

I’ve had an eye condition for a while now, that my owners never treated. They never took me to the vet for anything… not one time. My eye has been hurting me, but they didn’t seem to care. I honestly don’t even think they noticed…

On April 27, 2011, a tornado tried to kill me while I was outside on my chain. All of my days have been hard, but that was the worst day of my life. After the storm, almost everything was gone. But I was still there… so I landed at the pound.

I was scared at the shelter, because I knew what was to come. At least I thought I did. One day, I was taken to my Ashley-Mom, and when I got there, I didn’t know if I could trust her either. I’ve never been able to trust anyone, so I couldn’t really be sure. But she showed me love and helped me, and now I’m the happiest boy in the world! She even took me to the vet and fixed my eye! It’s still healing now, but soon it will be good as new!

I’m neutered, vaccinated, and undergoing heartworm treatment. Soon, I’ll be ready to find my family. Even though no one has ever really wanted me, I’m hoping this time will be different. Boy oh boy… if I could find a family to love me, that would be the only thing I’d want! Are you my family? I have a great personality and love to run and play. I like other dogs and I’m learning to love all people. I can be a little shy at first, but my heart is as big as they come! I wish you’d take me home with you, I’ve never really had a home.

If you’d like to adopt me, please fill out the online Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption/

Catie

My name is Catie (formerly MeeMaw). I am an Adult, female, Lab/Hound mix. I’ve lived all of my years at the end of a chain. I could see the grass for running, but it was always just beyond my reach. I could see the other dogs playing, but they would never play with me. I was a chained dog, a “bad” dog, an unwanted dog. At least, that’s what my family told me…

I have been bred over-and-over again for years. That’s really the only reason they kept me around. Even still, they never took me to a vet when I needed help. I had an eye issue that was never treated, and now I’m blind in my left eye. It makes me sad, because people look at me different… but it’s not my fault. I didn’t want to look this way. I used to be what people would call a “pretty” dog, but years of neglect on a chain left me like this.

On April 27, 2011, I heard the tornado coming toward me. I tried to run away, but the chain kept me there. The storm really hurt me… I was flung all around and nearly died. When it was over, I opened my eyes and couldn’t believe I was still alive. If I was going to have to stay on that chain, I was secretly wishing I’d die.

But then I was taken to the shelter where some people finally helped me. Even better, they got me to my Ashley-Mom, and now I get more love each day than I’ve had altogether my whole life! I’m vaccinated and receiving vet care, and soon I will need a family to love me. I know most dogs don’t get that lucky, but I’m hoping maybe I’ll be different. Maybe someone will think I’m special, even though I’m not perfect. My heart is perfect, and I love you already. Please take me home.

If you’d like to adopt me, please fill out the online Adoption Application: http://www.petpardons.com/adoption/

*Special thanks to Corcoran Photography for taking these beautiful new photos!