AIRETAILS 2011 AIREDALE RESCUE STORIES OF

THE NORTHWEST REGION

Welcome to our fourth annual edition of AIRETAILS! As we mark another year, we give thanks for our volunteers, adoptive homes, and

generous contributions. Without you, we could not continue our vital work of finding needy Airedales and near Dales a loving, forever home. On behalf of NWATR and the

many Airedales in need, thank you for your continued support!

Meet “Wagner” Our 2011 Poster Boy On December 31, 2010, our regional coordinator, Connie Turner, received a call regarding an Airedale Terrier, Wagner, who was left out in the snow tied to a horse trailer in Spokane, WA. He was only fed and visited once per week. Wagner had been in this situation over two weeks after his owners gave him to friends who promised to sell Wagner for them. NWATR immediately sprang into action, preventing this boy from spending any more time tethered out in the elements, alone and afraid. Wagner was immediately secured and transferred to our foster home in Coeur d’Alene, ID. A few weeks of loving foster care was all this sweet boy needed to be ready to move on to his forever home.

Northwest Airedale Terrier Rescue (NWATR) is a 501 c (3) charitable organization formed with the purpose of helping homeless Airedale Terriers in the northwest region. NWATR is an all volunteer organization. NWATR operates under the code of ethics and guidelines of the Airedale Terrier Club of America’s rescue committee.

WWW.NWAIREDALERESCUE.ORG

MATTIE, SHERWOOD, LOLA, TRACKER, FIONA AND HENRY Seven adult Airedales in one home can be a little overwhelming for even a die-hard Airedale lover! In October, NWATR was contacted by a caring owner on Orcas Island, WA. He had done a wonderful job with his Airedale kids, but he knew it was time for each to have a family of their own. NWATR re-homed three of the seven (Lilly, Snurffles, and Lolo).

In July, we were asked to re-home the remaining three (daddy Tracker, Ms. Scalliwag, and Henry). The seventh (Mom) had crossed the bridge earlier this year. UPDATE: All six are very happy enjoying their own family. The adoptive families continue to report how lucky they feel to have been chosen for adoption.

Lilly now Mattie

Snurffles, now Sherman

Lolo now Lola

Tracker Ms. Scally Wag now Fiona Henry

People are always surprised to learn that Airedale Terriers are given up, abandoned, and otherwise left behind. Maddie is one of them. This darling young girl wandered onto a farm in the Yakima area. After weeks of searching for her owners, it was apparent no one was looking for her; she had been abandoned. UPDATE: Maddie is now living the good life in the Seattle with her new, loving, forever family.

BEBE now MADDIE

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Confessions of a Dale-a-holic… My name is Terry and I’m a Dale-a-holic. I became aware of my condition about 30 years ago. It all started with a girl (doesn’t it always?). Her name was Cassie and she nestled in my lap as we drove home from the pound. It seemed innocent enough at the time – guy brings puppy of unknown origin/breed home to family with energetic, young boys. Cassie was mostly black with a reddish muzzle and feet, but I was only aware of her gorgeous eyes and playful temperament. I soon realized that our drive home began an addiction that still grips me tightly.

As an active participant in raising our children, Cassie was a quiet counselor and comfort to Ann and I. She offered encouragement in times of stress and rejoiced with us at graduations and personal achievements. I know, I know, you’re thinking I’m preaching to the choir. But as a Dale-a-holic, I must testify or burst.

My addiction to Airedales did not subside when Cassie crossed the Rainbow Bridge. And with abstinence not an option, I decided on moderation. When one or two Dales were not enough, Ann and I turned to NWATR to assist with rescue and adoption. Here’s a sampling:

Dale - Although his new family was not initially acquainted with the charms of an Airedale, we received regular notes expressing the family’s appreciation for Dale’s care of their young children. In this old gentleman’s finals years, he found meaning and reciprocated love and care. Another testimony to the unqualified devotion of this miraculous breed.

Tango - Initially afraid of men, he found his forever home via a first class flight to Phoenix, fulfilling his destiny as an unafraid companion to a young boy. Tango is now a solid member of a loving family. Scooter – Now a forever companion to a single man, Scooter lives among the remote wilderness and lakes of the Sierra’s. This four legged friend-of-all wanders the spaces of a remote observatory showing affection to all who come to gaze upon the stars.

Ozzie – the most recent, now resides with a wonderful Airedale experienced couple. At four months old, he’s equal parts affection and trouble. Bright eyed and intelligent, Ozzie is ready to immerse himself in the life of his new family. He carries the torch of all Airedales before and after him who unselfishly spread love and good will. So, if pressed to defend myself, I guess I’d have to admit - I take pride in my addiction…”

** Terry and his wife, Ann, reside in Tracy, CA and are active members of NWATR. * *

77 Airedales (plus a few Near Dales) were all re-homed by NWATR in the past 12 months ending July 31, 2011.

As you can imagine, rescue takes a lot volunteers that generously give of their time and talent, no matter how big or small. On behalf of NWATR and the Dales listed below,

thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Lupe, Bear, Georgie, Koufax, Gunny, Mattie, Riley, Sherman, Lola, Henry, Ruby, Annie, Vincent, Maddie, Fergie, Ginger, Brogue, Henry H., Roz, Annie, Doc, Oliver, Molly O., Picadilly, Libby, KC, Reggie, Fiona, Tracker,

Lacy, Norton, Chiclet, Ali, Jack, Mr. Bingley, Harvey, Blossom, Molly S. Sam, Millie, Diamond, Rags, Cooper, Molly, Homer, Jack, Dillon, Wagner, Angel, Axel, Annie TuTu, Arthur, Newcastle, Duncan, Echo, Skookums,

Gabby, Sidney, Hopper, Babe, Paxton, Ace, Beau, Chelsea, Maxx, Jack P., Finn, Buster, Stockton, Molly, Ditto, Sunday, Rosie, Cash, Doc, Biscuit, Charley.

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2004 Chevy Tahoe LT…FLASH! One of our awesome supporters has donated his “loaded,” well cared for, Chevy Tahoe to NWATR. The vehicle is currently on consignment at the business place of another wonderful supporter, Fairway Motors, 1500 Yelm Ave W., Yelm, WA. For more info, please call Fairway Motors at 360-400-7000. They will make you a great deal - we promise! Airedale Collectibles Sadly, we lost a dear friend and supporter of NWATR this year, Mary Pealey of HorseTail, BC. Knowing Mary’s love for Airedales, her daughter Wendy Stevens has graciously donated various unique Airedale memorabilia to our organization. Watch for these items to be marketed in our online store at www.nwairedalerescue.org starting in late November. All proceeds will benefit NWATR’s efforts to help spare Dales in our area.

The following individuals donated funds to NWATR this past year:

Jennifer Bly, Peggy Kurtz, Karen Badgley, Becky Hornby, Sandra Merwin, Carole Breitenbach, Nicole

Blackmer, Pat and Bob Coleman, Melvyn Trenor, Sheila Mills, Cindy Johnson, Microsoft Matching Gifts Program, Ricci and Lesley Weatherman, Donald and LeeAnn Bly, Mac and Jo McCloskey, Ginny and the late Roger Schuyler, Ted and Diane Johnson, Lorna Cullen, John and Kim Britcher, Gene Hartman, William Black,

United Way of Columbia Willamette, Carolyn Airriess, Pam and Gary Jones, Jack and Shirley Brain, Beth Duke, Jackie McGuinness, Sally and Merv Kayser, Roger and Anna Paperno, Marianne Spiegel, Judith

Johnson, Slyvia and Paul Golden, Van and Diane Wilkinson, Carol and Bob Card, Vickie and Don Walsh, Mary Ippoliti Smith, Elinor Hein, Rennie Archibald, Rhonda Nelson, Janet Mayer, Janice Denney, David Wales, Sally

Tange, Maurine Barnett, Erin Miller, Nancy De Matti, Kristin Fletcher, Dwight and Diane Walters, Bob Tim, Susan Gibson, Alicia and Bob Nelson, Debbie Wilbank, JD Leblanc and Laurelee Ahlman, Debbie Melmon, Cliff and Carole Raisbeck, Megen and Mike Opsahl, Diane Williams, Connie Cservenyak, Leni Dwyer, Susan Condray, John Rogers, Chris and Kay Johnson, Pamela Logan, Bruce Pennell, Felicitas Funke-Riehle, Robert Berg and Paul Sibel, Dan Hines, Costo Matching Gifts Program, Mary Healy, John and Eva Weisenburger, Linda Racette, Mary Ann Odegaard, Kathy Smith, Elizabeth Woo, Kim and Bill Vickers, Puppy Prodigies,

James Walker, Diane Hartzel, Ingrid Hansen, Cindy Daniels, Lydia Ross, Linda McVey, Jennifer Miller, Don Smith, Sue Cartwright, Maggie Spears, Erin Raney, Doug Schurman, Sidney Hardie, John Connolly, Pat

Nevegold, Lynne O’Hara, Bruce King, Terence Nelson, Lindsay Myers, Lynn Martin

* * * If we inadvertently missed anyone, we sincerely apologize. * * *

It takes many special people to help 77+ Airedales; stepping in to do what is necessary to safeguard, foster, get to know, groom, vet, microchip, interview applicants, home check, transport and be there for follow-up post adoption. There are too many people to thank individually but, you know who you are. And on behalf of NWATR and the Airedales in need….

A BIG AIREDALE “WOOF!” (THANK YOU) TO ALL OUR “AIRE-ANGELS”

This year, NWATR incurred a higher rate of emergency surgeries for rescues in our system. Our gratitude goes out to the caring veterinarians and their staff who not only saved lives, but kept the fees as low as possible for our Airedales in need. Thank you.

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Donations to Northwest Airedale Terrier Rescue are vital to our mission. They provide medical care, food, transportation, etc. for temporarily homeless Airedales in the northwest region. Donations, no matter how large or small, can be made by check and mailed to: NWATR 1958 8th Ave West, Seattle WA 98119, or to NWATR c/o Connie Turner 3235 Bonham Ave S., Salem, OR 97302, OR can be made via PayPal at our website at www.nwairedalerescue.org. Your gift is tax deductible. Thank you for your consideration. ALSO, PLEASE REMEMBER AIREDALE TERRIERS IN NEED WHEN YOU PREPARE YOUR WILL OR TRUST DOCUMENT. YOUR GIFT OF LOVE AND COMPASSION WILL MAKE A LIFE-SAVING DIFFERENCE FOR THE AIREDALES WHO ARE COUNTING ON US. TO LEAVE A BEQUEST, SIMPLY WRITE:

“I give to Northwest Airedale Terrier Rescue, Tax ID #26-0471008 (the sum of $_______ or % of the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate) for its general purposes.”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * With sadness, we say good-bye…

As we reflect on the past 12 months, we are reminded of the special souls that have crossed the Rainbow Bridge. Our thoughts go out to their two and four-legged companions dealing with their loss. “Not only is there always another good animal in need of a good home, but we must remember to be thankful for the time and love our animals give us while they are here. Take time to enjoy them and learn from them. As painful as it is to lose them, they teach us to love unselfishly, they teach us to live each day to the fullest, they teach us how to grow old gracefully, and they teach us how to die with dignity. We do them a disrespect to focus only on the sorrow of their death when they have given us so much joy through their life. If we wish to honor them, take what they have given us, all that love, and give it back to another animal in need of help.” - Kent C. Greenough

Rudy

Our four-legged friends feel the bite of the economy, too!

“Many people will walk in and out of your life, but an Airedale will leave

paw prints on your heart.”

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THUNDERSHIRT™ AND PUPPY BUMPERS® are two of our top “must have” finds this year. The Thundershirt™ is a doggie Velcro wrap that has an amazing way of relaxing your Airedale. Use for thunderstorms, vet visits, alone times, anything fearful, a Thundershirt™ is more calming than a big hug during those stressful times (www.thundershirt.com). Puppy Bumpers® prevent your “escape artist” from easing under or through the fence and other small spaces. Dogs actually like wearing them too! (www.puppybumpers.net). Both are great products!

JUST SAY NO TO: Flexi leads, shock collars, rawhides, greenies, corn cobs, bacon, ham, and holiday turkey, chain store kibble and treats, giving Soloxine with dairy or soy, giving vaccinations all at once, and automatic vaccinations (have your vet titer test first to check immunity). A strong immune system will give your Airedale a best chance at a long, healthy life with you. Please do not over vaccinate your Airedale and please, use informed care in your treatment choices. SAY YES TO: Raw marrow bones for natural dental care, daily intense exercise and other dog socialization, a well thought out diet, professional advice at the onset of behavioral problems, avoiding any cancer causing agents, checking your dog’s i.d. tags NOW (are they there and are they current?), and a subscription to Whole Dog Journal. The Whole Dog Journal is our “go to” resource and a MUST for informative dog ownership www.whole-dog-journal.com

Sharing Information…We learn so much from our rescue dogs!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Be an animal’s voice…If you have knowledge of a pet being neglected or abused, please report it to the proper authorities. You may be the only one who saves a pet

from a life of loneliness, suffering, or worse. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Oh, my! What distinguished ears you have!

Made you smile, didn’t I? TILLY ROMEO SYDNEY KATE

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BLOSSOM - Imagine the sorrow and confusion of a dog who’s family has dropped her off at a shelter in her senior years. The odds are high in this type of situation that this will be the dog’s last stop in life. Thankfully, when this happened to Blossom, a caring shelter worker took the time to call Connie and Gordon Turner of NWATR and ask if they would consider helping a senior Airedale mix. Of course, Blossom was scooped up by the Turners to stay with their pack at home. They fostered her for a few weeks until a wonderful home was found. BELOW IS AN UPDATE FROM BLOSSOM’S NEW MOM:

AND WE HEAR FROM OUR HOMES…

“…She LOVES coming to work with me every day and greeting each new client as they arrive all day long. She figures out who are the ‘dog’ people and who aren’t and pesters the dog people for pets and scratches before settling down for a nap during each session. She has our timing down in the morning and if I’m running late, she sits at the top of the stairs and cries at me to hurry up and put her in the car to go to the office. And she loves her mid-day walk around the office neighborhood. Blossom and I walk about 3 miles early every morning and she is quite the sniffer dog. Every interesting blade of grass needs to be examined and any ground scents of rodents are cause for a massive investigation as to where the rodent might be now. She has not yet met a human or dog she doesn’t like.

Blossom at the shelter

Blossom is an awesome dog. She is now perky and energetic and dances around when she knows we are going somewhere. I think she would be happiest if she could take up residence attached to my right hip all day every day and does not like being alone at all. She loves hanging out at Steve’s house and endlessly exploring his semi-wild backyard which is FULL of rodent smells that bring out her inner Airedale.” Thank you for the opportunity to be Blossom’s forever home. She has brought me tremendous joy and happiness and I cannot imagine life without her. I hope you are both doing well and continuing the wonderful and important work you both do to help rescue these beautiful Airedales and find them wonderful new homes”.

Fergie (8 yrs.) “Just want to let you know that Fergie is a joy. She still has issues on the street when seeing other dogs and is fiercely protective of the house when there are people coming to the door, mowing the lawn, etc., but she is well trained in the house and so affectionate. I love her dearly already. We are a team. Thank you so much for getting us together.” Mary

Blossom now

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Bella (3 yrs.) “Just a quick update on Bella. She is doing very well. She is the Queen of West Seattle and is today having a play day at the Muttley Crew in West Seattle. She is the best thing we have done for the kids. Our daughter loves her more than her brother and our son is growing up with the best dog ever. Please tell her owner that she still gets her toast most mornings and is very much loved and cared for. Bella has even adopted Charlie (our 14-year old cat) and lets him stay in the house…Secretly, I have seen them sleeping together when no one is looking. Thanks again for all your help and bringing Bella into our lives.” Roger

1958 8th Ave West Seattle, WA 98119

You, our Airedale community, are very special to all of us at NWATR. We love hearing from you with updates on our re-homed Airedales – keep them coming! Plus, it’s wonderful to rekindle friendships that may have grown silent over time.

Airedale friends are the best!

Wags from Northwest Airedale Terrier Rescue

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