grreat times summer 2013

Summer 2013

From Rescue Dog to Agility Champ

Luna’s Surprises

Older Dog Health Problems

Working Out with Your Dog

Rainbow Bridge

Gracie’s Checkups

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Contents4

President’s Message

6Everything Is Looking Up after Gracie’s Checkups

8Luna’s Surprises

9Fit with Fido;

Working Out with Your Dog

10Dealing with Older Dog Health Problems

11Adoptions

12Homecoming

14Controlling Ticks and Fleas

in the Back Yard

16Rainbow Bridge

17Dogs Keep the Whole Family Healthy

17Dogs Are Natural De-Stressors

18Meet Lincoln;

Rescue Dog to Agility Champ

21Adopt-A-Dog Program

22Contributions

Submitting Stories and PhotosWe have decided to make “homecoming” a feature in each newsletter to feature dogs that have been adopted from us over the years. Send us a picture (identify everyone in it, please) with your dog’s name, when you adopted it, your name and a few words or more about your dog. Full length stories are welcomed, too!

When you submit your pictures for publication in print, please submit an original digital image of no less than 300 dpi. If you aren’t sure of the dpi, send the original and we’ll check the pos-sibility for use. We can make pictures smaller but we can not make them larger. Don’t worry about the file size; if you can send it, we can receive it. If you can’t send it, let us know. We’ll show you a way that it can be sent.

Email to: [email protected]

GRREAT Times is a quarterly publication of SEVA GRREAT, Inc., an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding homes for homeless Golden Retrievers.

For more information, call our Hotline at 757-827-8561 or visit our web site at www.sevagrreat.org.

To contact the newsletter editor with suggestions, comments, or send materials and photos for inclusion, send an e-mail to [email protected], or write Attn.: Newsletter Editor, PO Box 8014, Yorktown, VA 23693.

SEVA GRREAT disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors.

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SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

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Welcome to the new GRREAT Times magazine, where Goldens are gold. That’s right. We’re bringing you SEVA GRREAT’s golden retrievers in their true beautiful gold

colors as they were meant to be seen. Thanks to advancements in digital printing, we’re able to offer you a full color magazine, at the same production cost, to replace the previous black & white newsletter; bringing you additional enjoyment of stories and information. The magazine will be published quarterly like the previous newsletter; Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring. To broaden the market, the magazine will be available on the internet as a PDF file and in a flipbook format also. Check our website at adoptagolden.com to access these formats.

The mission of the magazine is to keep you informed at your leisure about SEVA GRREAT’s dedication and effort providing forever homes for homeless golden retrievers. But, it’s more than that. It’s a place to share the experience of fostering, caring for, and providing permanent homes for the Goldens. It’s about the bonds made with a Golden who has been given a forever home. Throughout this issue, you will find numerous requests to send us photos and stories about Goldens. These true stories of “life with a Golden” is the reason SEVA GRREAT finds homes for these wonderful dogs. So, please send us your photos and stories that we may share them with others, whether they can be used for Homecoming, Rainbow Bridge or a full article/story with pictures.

Another benefit hoped to be gained with the new magazine format is advertising revenue. The new format should increase the interest and shelf-life of those reading the magazine. Combining that with the public access offered on the internet makes us a sound target audience for advertising dollars that can be used for the Goldens.

In this issue, you’ll find a feature story about Lincoln; a rescue dog who turned into an agility champion. That’s him on the cover. Look for Lincoln in the future as he adorns the cover of the 2014 calendar coming out this fall. Also in this issue, there are stories about working out with your dog, older dog health problems, surprises from Luna, controlling fleas and ticks in the yard, an update on Gracie, Sponsoring-A-Dog Program, and one great photo of an infant and Golden you can’t miss. As always, there are reports on Adoptions, Rainbow Bridge and Contributions, plus Homecoming, where we display your photos.

Enjoy,Brad MillerGRREAT Times editor

Greetings . . .

GOLDEN DAYSPET APPRECIATION DAYGloucester – August 17

MEMBERSHIP MEETINGSRichmond – July 20

South of the James Farmers MarketRichmond – September 7

Glen Allen DayRichmond – September 21

SEVA GRREATHomecoming PicnicNewport News – September 21

South of the JamesFarmers MarketRichmond – September 28Richmond – October 26

Check our website for updates and exact locations and times. adoptagolden.com

Check back a week before the event to confirm.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

GRREAT ADSGRREAT Times is now offering advertising space.

Rates per issue for various size ads are:Full Page = $1501/2 Page = $1001/3 Page = $751/6 Page = $50A discounted rate for multiple issue placement is available

Email requests, size and specification questions to [email protected].

Every effort will be made to put your ad in the desired issue.

GRREAT Times is published quarterly the second week of January, April, July, and October. Deadline for submitting an AD is the 1st of the month prior to the publication date.

SUMMER 2013

WANTED:Web WarriorsWEBMASTER AND/OR WEBSITECONTENT MANAGERS

Volunteers would help maintain the content of the SEVA GRREAT website. Could use a team of 2-3 people to cover various aspects of the website under the guidance of the webmaster. If you are interested, contact Pat at [email protected].

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I think we all know that nothing that SEVA GRREAT undertakes would get accomplished

if not for the dedicated volunteers. These are the special folks, who continue to put in countless hours to make sure we can fulfill our mission and not turn away a Golden in need. There is no truer adage than the most overworked and underpaid individual is called a volunteer.

I want to dedicate this message to those countless volunteers who have served our group for many years. I also want to welcome our newest volunteers who responded to the request we sent out in letters and our recent email blast. As a result, I am pleased to share with you that we have added a wonderful artist who graciously volunteered to do a series of 4 – 6 prints of Golden Retrievers. These will be printed into note cards for sales at our fundraisers. Another volunteer stepped up to help with fundraising and event planning ideas

as we expand our thinking into a world of new possibilities on how to raise additional funds. Someone else came forward to volunteer to make a quilt for us to raffle off at our Golden Day events; and a busy business owner volunteered to help us with social media technologies on the Technology Committee. Another member volunteered woodworking skills and then this gracious family also volunteered to allow us to host an event on their property in Chesapeake should we need it ---- and the list goes on. I can’t tell you how genuinely pleased I am with this positive and enthusiastic response. Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! With that being said, if anyone else out there is thinking about joining in on this wonderful mission we would still love to hear from you.

As we recognize our volunteers, it is important to also share what has been accomplished because of the myriad of efforts they have

undertaken. So far this year (January-June), SEVA GRREAT foster families have taken in and fostered 44 Goldens. We have cared for numerous special needs dogs that came to us requiring hip and other extensive leg surgeries which increases exponentially the care and time our foster families commit. Our 2014 Calendar Committee has been even more successful than last year in their venture to identify and obtain ad sponsor commitments which will allow us to be even more profitable. The pictures that have been submitted rival last year’s selections as a wonderful representation of our rescued Golden’s. We hope you purchase these and volunteer to help us sell them when they come out later this year. We also moved forward on an idea to join the Southside Farmers Market in Richmond, VA during September – December and hope to gain more visibility for SEVA GRREAT and sell our merchandise during a peak Holiday season. In May, we


A Tribute to Our Volunteers

President’s Message

Send Us Your PhotosDo you have a SEVA GRREAT dog? We would love to see what you are doing. Our alumni seem to be having very exciting lives. Share your pictures, including captions, by sending them to [email protected]. They will be featured in the next newsletter under Homecoming. And if you have a story to tell, we and the other Golden lovers would enjoy reading about it. So, send those stories with your photos also.

We love pictures of newly adopted dogs with their new families, too!

The 2014 Calendar contest has come to an end, so keep an eye out for the calendar coming this fall. Don’t forget about the next year’s calendar (2015) either. The yearly calendar is an on-going project. If you take a picture you like, send it in the day you take it. The email address to send photos for 2015 will be available soon. Be sure to include your name and contact information as well as a story about your dog to be published with the picture.

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South of the James Location

900 Southlake BoulevardRichmond, Virginia 23236

Contact Informationphone: 804-794-5400

fax: 804-794-1664

Glen Allen Location

3800 Mountain RoadGlen Allen, Virginia 23060

Contact Informationphone: 804-672-2200

fax: 804-672-7147

had a great turnout at the California Pizza Kitchen fundraiser through the tenacious efforts of our Volunteer Coordinator and the publicity given to us through Oldies and Goldies radio 107.3. We attended Pet Expos, Woofstock, Grand Opening of Gingers II, K9 Karnival, held an event in Dinwiddie, added an event at Tractor Supply Company in Gloucester, are making plans for the Neptune Festival --- and the list goes on. To me, this is real important information to share because it serves as a reminder of what it takes to get our job at SEVA GRREAT done.

The other reality is that nothing remains more constant than change itself. As this newsletter is being circulated and read, I hope you are as excited as we are about the new look that GRREAT Times has undergone. In saying farewell and giving our heartfelt thanks to Liz Sumner for her selfless commitment over 6+ year, we are equally excited about welcoming our new editor Brad Miller. He is bringing forward some wonderful new ideas to help us improve the appearance while keeping costs the same. We will continue the printed and mailed versions of the newsletter, as well as, using blogs and other social media to ensure we reach all members.

As you can see, there are lots of exciting things that are going on behind the scenes which we are excited about sharing with you. I hope you enjoy our new magazine format and the articles submitted. Let us know your thoughts and if you desire to submit an article please send them directly to [email protected]. And, to all our many, many devoted volunteers --- my salute and sincere thanks!

Your President, Dottie Cleal

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Everything Is Looking Up after Gracie’s Checkups


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Everything Is Looking Up after Gracie’s Checkups

SUMMER 2013

5/5/2013Gracie had her first PT yesterday. We can already see the difference in her. She uses her right leg more often and walks better. She lost a lot of muscle on her shoulder and elbow.

As little as she is, her PT and massage requires three people, because she won’t be still and probably thinks they are going to hurt her. They told me once she gets use to this, I will have to do this at home. She learned how to walk on the treadmill. She will have PT twice a week and may start water therapy next week.

Gracie was shaking when I dropped her off at Quioccasin Vet yesterday morning. By the time I picked her up, she did not want to leave! She walked along the side of the building and saw them through the glass door and begged to stay there. They let her in and she had another round of petting.

Gracie also had a check up this morning. Dr. Murphie said she is doing well. She does not need to be crated, and she can be off leash in the house. She can go up stairs but not down. She is allowed to have 20 to 30 minutes walks twice a day.

Dr. Murphie said the injury will not impact her life span, but arthritis has started. Range of motion is decreased, especially the extension. PT will help to improve this, but she will prob-ably have a limp.

6/4/2013Gracie had a check up at Anderson’s this morning. Dr. Murphie was VERY pleased with her progress. the bone totally healed. He said more than once that Dr. Hiser did terrific job (PT) on Gracie, and Gracie’s recovery is exceeded his expectation.

Dr. Murphie said, he can not say that Gracie will be normal but will be almost normal (may be limp, definitely will have to deal with arthri-tis all her life) and she will have very active life and have fun to play!

ALL restrictions have lifted. Dr. Murphie said she will be sore and might limp more after playing and running around, but that is expect-ed and OK.

She is due for another follow up 5 weeks from now.

Gracie is doing well at home, too. She is learn-ing the basic commands and has not had an accident in the house.

8 SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE, EDUCATION & TRAINING, INC.

SEVA's hotline rang the later part of April and a message was left that a family

could no longer keep their 9 year old golden because of finances and they were moving. I immediately called them and made all the arrangements to bring Luna into SEVA's care. She sounded like a real sweetheart and it turned out she is even though she likes to counter surf eating donuts and hamburger buns. The day Luna came into our care she was scheduled to be checked out by the vet and be spayed. I was aware that she previously had about 2-3 liters of puppies, but I was not prepared and very surprised when I got a call from Quioccasin Veterinary Hospital telling me they couldn't spay her because

Luna’s Surprises

by Rose Bennett

they thought she was pregnant. She was x-rayed and it verified the pregnancy with 7 puppies showing. Luna went to her foster home with Lisa Spenik until she was closer to delivery time and then I would take her through her delivery. She enjoyed the donuts at Lisa's house. Needless to say our concern for Luna was worrisome due to the fact of her age. The older a dog is the harder a pregnancy can be and also sometimes the number

of puppies is low which can cause large size pups that can't be delivered naturally. Complications can be death of pups or mom during birth. Luna came to my home a couple of weeks before her delivery date. She became huge in size. She looked as if someone walked by her with a pin in their hand she would just blow up at the site of it. Even though she appeared very uncomfortable she made the best out of every day. What an amazing strong girl she turned out to be. Luna gave us another surprise on May 26th when she gave birth to 10 puppies. Unfortunately 2

did not survive but the remaining 8 are doing GRREAT. She was not partial to one sex or the other as she had 4 boys and 4 girls. It's still a little early to tell but we think the puppies are 100% golden. Luna is an excellent mom and a very happy go lucky girl. This pregnancy was definitely a tiring experience for her so she will be spayed as soon as she finishes nursing her crew. I think she will be very thankful to have it done. She is being a very attentive mom and has even begun to introduce the puppies to triscuits, wheat thins, peanut butter crackers and peanut butter bars as she has been going in my grocery bags and taking the boxes to her nesting area. She hasn't figured out how to open the boxes yet but I don't think it will take her too long. I'm not sure but I think foster dad Charlie is jealous she's taking the snacks. What a great companion Luna is going to be when she is able to be adopted. Just keep your counters clear.

A couple of days before the birth.

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Have you grown tired of your same old boring workout routine? Does going

to the gym seem more like a chore than an inspiration? Do you love spending time with your dog? Welcome to Fit With Fido!

My life changed for the better about 3 years ago with the adoption of a Jack Russell terrier, Lola. I always hated leaving Lola behind while I went to work out at the gym. Not only because I always enjoyed having Lola along with me but also because Lola had experienced a very solitary and lonely first year of her life. She had very recently been rescued from an animal hoarder. As her new mommy, I wanted her to get out of the house as much as possible and see that not all humans are bad. So we started taking our workouts outside and thus the idea of Fit With Fido was born!

People with dogs often struggle to find the time to exercise themselves and their dogs. Now pet owners can accomplish exercise for both- all in about an hour! We offer fitness training programs based around joint human-dog workouts. Your dog is your workout partner. How much fun would it be to bring your dog to your next exercise class? Well, now you can!

Fit With Fido believes that a healthy lifestyle is just as important for our canine companions as it is for us humans. Our pets can suffer from the same health concerns as we do. Obesity, heart disease, joint problems are all possible complications that our dogs can experience if they aren’t leading a healthy lifestyle.

Proper physical and mental exercise can also help eliminate “naughty” behaviors in your dog. A destructive doggie is quite often the result of misguided energy. The physical

and mental stimulation that your dog will experience in our Fit With Fido classes can help prevent boredom and focus your dog’s energy in a productive, positive direction.

Dog owners of all fitness levels are welcome in our classes. We love people that are new to fitness and those clients that are not so motivated when it comes to working out. Having your dog as your workout partner helps take your mind off of the exercise part and makes the experience much more enjoyable. Dogs of all sizes and obedience are also welcome to class. Don’t think your dog is well behaved or socialized enough to attend class- that is all the more reason to bring them! A tired dog is a happy dog!

What’s in it for you and your dog?

• Save time - a challenging workout for yourself, physical and mental exercise for your dog - all in 1 hour.

• Get fit and stay active - humans and dogs need to practice healthy living daily to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Physical and mental exercise for your dog - A tired dog is a well-behaved dog!

• Build a better connection - Best of all we will be strengthening our bond and loving relationship with our canine companions!

Our current class offered includes Yoga. We will soon also be adding Circuit Style Training, Trail Runner’s Club, Hiking, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding, and Camping Trips.

To find out more about our class times and schedules please visit www.Fit-With-Fido.com or visit us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FitWithFidoVirginiaBeach. We hope to see you in class!

Fit with Fido Working

Out with Your Dog!

by Shannon Goertzen

SUMMER 2013


What’sUp Doc?

Senior dogs have different care require-ments than those of a younger dog. This

fact probably doesn’t come as a surprise to anyone. But how do you know when your dog is considered to be a senior?

It really depends on the individual dog. In gen-eral, giant breed dogs age faster than smaller breed dogs. A Great Dane is considered to be senior by roughly 5-6 years old whereas a Chi-huahua would likely only be middle-aged then, and probably not considered a senior until 10-11 years. Large breed dogs fall somewhere in between. A Golden Retriever might be con-sidered senior by 8-10 years of age. Genetics, nutrition, environment; all of these play a role in how fast your dog ages.

What are some of the things to expect as your dog ages? Your dog may develop arthritis or other degenerative diseases that cause him to slow down. He may not be able to walk as far or play as long. He may tire more easily. He may have difficulty getting up or finding a comfortable position to sleep in. He may become reluctant to go up and down stairs or have difficulty getting into and out of the car.

Without proper care, dental disease can pose a problem, particularly for older pets. You may be surprised to learn that veterinarians find evidence of dental disease in many pets as early as 2-3 years of age. If nothing is done to care for your dog’s mouth, by the time your dog is a senior, he may even have lost some teeth. Dental disease can be painful, causing your dog to avoid or have difficulty eating his meals. This may result in weight loss and an unkempt hair coat.

Dental disease is certainly not the only disease

Dealing with Older Dog Health Problems

that can lead to weight loss. Senior dogs frequently suffer from kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease and other conditions that may result in weight loss.

On the other hand, some senior dogs may have the opposite problem. Some dogs will be-come less active with age, essentially becom-ing couch potatoes, and will gain weight as a result. Obesity in a major health issue in dogs of all ages and senior dogs are no different.

What can you do to help your senior dog? Here are some tips:

Schedule regular visits with your veterinar-ian. Your dog needs to be examined at least yearly if it appears healthy, as many diseases are hidden and not apparent. Remember it is much cheaper to prevent disease than it is to treat it!

Ask for a body condition evaluation dur-ing each vet visit. Body condition is crucial to determining whether your senior dog is overweight, underweight, or at an ideal body weight. In fact, you should also ask your veteri-narian to show you how to evaluate your dog's body condition at home.

Feed your older dog a high quality diet. Also, learn to read the dog food label and choose a diet that is appropriate for your dog’s age and lifestyle.

Use food to keep your senior dog at his ideal body weight. Overweight dogs have a higher incidence of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, skin disease, even cancer. Your vet-erinarian can help you choose an appropriate diet for your dog, especially since overweight

dogs must be fed carefully to ensure that all nutrient needs are met while still allowing for weight loss. For instance, specialized diets that are lower in calories as well as those that are high L-carnitine are available for obese or overweight dogs. A diet with a carefully chosen carbohydrate or carbohydrate blend can also help keep your overweight dog feeling sati-ated.

Consider fortifying your senior dog’s diet with fatty acids such as DHA and EPA. They have been shown to be useful for dogs with mobility issues due to arthritis or other joint diseases. Supplements such as glucosamine and chon-droitin are also beneficial for senior dogs.

Consider a special diet if your older dog has heart or kidney disease. For example, diets lower in sodium are sometimes advocated for dogs with heart disease, while diets which help control phosphorus, calcium and other electrolyte levels are given to dogs with kidney disease. Your veterinarian can help you choose the best food for your dog based on your dog’s individual situation.

Take care of your dog’s mouth. Brushing your dog’s teeth may seem like a silly idea but it can help keep your dog’s mouth healthy. If you cannot brush, consider dental treats and toys that help keep the teeth clean.

Exercise your senior dog. It can help keep your older dog lean and maintain healthy joints and muscles. However, tailor your dog’s exercise needs to his individual requirements. For a large breed dog, walking around the block is probably just getting started but for a tiny Chihuahua, a brisk walk around the block may

by Lorie Huston, DVM from Pet360

Older Dog – continued on page 21

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Adoptions

Myles

Kiara

Dakota

Mason – 4 y/o maleThe Wilburn Family

Dakota – 6 y/o maleThe Zinski Family

Kiara – 4 m/o femaleThe Averett Family

Sarah – 7 y/o femaleThe Seiler Family

Myles – 5 y/o maleThe Wdman Family

Tupelo – femaleThe Lambert Family

Peaches – 3 y/o femaleThe Goldbach/Ehmer Family

Bear – 6 y/o maleThe Oberlander Family

Maddy – 6-7 y/o female The Main Family

Woody – 5 y/o male: The Maxey Family

Jack – 9 y/o male The Morris Family

Haven – 7-10 wk/o female The Colohan Family

Sandy – 6 y/o female The Wolber Family

Tupelo

Woody

Bear

Sarah

Peaches

Jack

Haven


Ally and Roxy enjoying the day!

Blake gone fishing.My buddy Blake.

14 months ago I met Humphrey (then his name was “Sparky”) and I just wanted to thank SEVA GRREAT for giving me the opportunity to spend my days with this awesome dog...he reminds me everyday that you only live once. –from Ashley Crawford

Pool Fun!

HOMECOMINGShare your pictures and stories by sending them to [email protected]. They will be featured in the next newsletter, right here under Homecoming.

–from Veronica Marie Sumner

–from Joshua Chevalier

–from Joshua Chevalier

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Roni trying to give Max some confidence in the pool, or is it the other way around?

Ginger, our Golden Retriever, underwent multiple orthopedic surgeries, the first at 6 months old for severe hip dysplasia (called a Triple Pelvic Osteotomy or TPO). A few years later she underwent surgery on her left knee for a Patellar Luxation. Ginger is almost 10 now. –from Jenny Williams

Here’s my 21 month old daughter and our rescued

golden Pilsner (formerly Colby, adopted November 2008) waiting for their daddy to

come home from work.

Riley is still a Syracuse fan.

–from Jenny Williams

Pool Fun!

HOMECOMING



–from Jane Frye

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If your pets have fleas and/or ticks, you have no doubt gone to great lengths to treat them

and to control the fleas and ticks. You have probably vacuumed the house and car from top to bottom, and washed everything in sight in your efforts to get rid of these pesky blood sucking parasites. But there is yet another step you will need to take to make sure all your efforts are worthwhile.

Many people forget that their pets also spend time outside in the yard. If your dog or cat spends a lot of time outdoors, this will be where the majority of the flea population is also living. Even if you have treated your pet for the fleas, the problem may persist because the fleas still have a proximal advantage to your home. And remember, fleas can live on your blood, too, not just your pet’s. So, along with the inside of the house, you will need to give the yard some attention in order to bring an infestation under control.

MOWING AND PRUNING

Look around your yard. Identifying the areas where fleas and ticks are likely to live is fairly easy. Fleas love to congregate in places where they are protected from bright sunlight and that have slightly higher humidity. This includes your dog’s house, sleeping and feeding areas, and underneath lawn structures. Ticks, on the other hand, do best in tall grasses and branches, where they can climb up to grab onto a passing animal or human.

A cheap and easy way to reduce flea and tick populations in your yard is to keep the grass, trees and shrubs trimmed and orderly. Clean up all of the piles of debris and leaves that may be littering the ground. Sweep off patios and under decks and lawn furniture. Remove or secure any garbage bins that may attract rodents or small animals that could be carrying fleas and ticks.

CHEMICALS

Unless you have a major infestation, keeping the yard clean and debris-free should help break the flea and tick life cycle. You may not need to use chemical treatments in your yard, but if it becomes necessary, make sure to read the labels carefully before choosing which one to use.

This last precaution is very important, since some chemicals can be harmful to pets, fish, and humans, so be sure you know the correct way to use them before you use them, and follow all application directions closely. If you are using the chemical outdoors, look for a chemical that is specifically labeled for outdoor use, otherwise you might be wasting your money on a product that will break down in sunlight and humidity/rain.

Flea treatment should only be necessary in the

Controlling Fleas and Ticks in the YardHow to Treat Your Lawn for Fleas and Ticks by Jennifer Kvamme

Controlling Fleas and Ticks in the Yard originally appeared on petMD.com


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Controlling Fleas and Ticks in the YardHow to Treat Your Lawn for Fleas and Ticks

shady, humid areas of the yard, where fleas like to congregate. Open areas that get plenty of bright sunlight won’t need to be sprayed. Focus on areas under bushes, trees, decks, dog pens, and such. This will help control the immature stages of fleas that make up the majority of the population. Natural Solutions

As an alternative to chemicals, you may consider using beneficial nematodes in the yard. These are microscopic worms found naturally in the dirt. Application of nematodes is done with a sprayer or spreader. These types of worms are not parasitic to mammals and do not affect humans, pets or plants.

What they do is actively seek insects, such as fleas, inserting themselves into the immature insect’s body. The nematodes then send out a toxin that kills the fleas within a short period of time. The nematodes are able to reproduce in the yard where they have been released, and their effects will last for several months.

Other options may be to spread an abrading agent, such as diatomaceous earth, on the lawn. This product is made from the ground-up bodies of microscopic fossils; it works by drying out the bodies of adult fleas, thereby killing them. Look for a natural grade of diatomaceous earth in your garden or pet store. This dust works best when conditions are not very wet, so if you live in a very humid, rainy part of the country, where this product can be washed off or broken down by moisture, this may not be the best solution for your outdoor spaces.

No matter which method you choose to use in your home or yard to eliminate fleas and ticks, be sure to get advice from your veterinarian before use. Chemicals — and even naturally derived products — can be dangerous to animals when not used in the intended manner, or when an animal’s health is already at risk.

SUMMER 2013

Self Service Dog Wash1485 General Booth Blvd., Suite 105

Virginia Beach, VA 23454Behind Wendy’s, next to Yama Sushi

Tuesday - Friday, 10am - 7pmSaturday, 10am - 6pm; Sunday, 11am - 5pm

Gift Cards are availableNo appointments necessary

www.muddybuddyva.comwww.facebook/Muddybuddyofva

757-321-PAWS (7297)

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Our Wendy Girl – March 17, 1999 to April 27, 2013

Late last night our beautiful dog, Wendy, crossed the Rainbow Bridge. She was over 14 years old, and had an inoper-able growth in her nasal cavity. She was a tough ol’ girl who persevered through an operation to remove a benign tumor on her spleen 3 years ago, old hips that barely held her up, and finally the growth in her nose. Through it all, she was always a happy girl, and ready to be a part of the action, even as her health got worse. When we thought that she was too frail to go on her daily walk (only to the end of the driveway and back), she would hoist herself up on her weak hips and look at us as if to say, “Hey, I’m ready for my walk!” She had a “can do” spirit that would make any midwesterner proud!

In 2005, we got Wendy from SEVA GRREAT in Virginia. She made the trip to South Dakota with us in 2009 when we moved to the Black Hills of South Dakota. She loved the snow and the cold weather. When

we first got to Rapid City and she was in better health, Wendy loved to chase the ducks at the park, and hike with us around Pactola Lake. She was always ready for an adventure! As her health began to fail, she became a daily inspiration to us as she lived in the moment and enjoyed life. We are grateful that it was only in the last several days that her health issues kept her from her busy life.

We will miss our sweet girl Her gentle spirit, courage, tenacity, and wonderful smile will live in our hearts forever. Wendy taught us the true meaning of carpe diem!

Farewell to our precious Wendy girl.The Ellingtons: Carolyn, Chuck, and Elliott (our rescued Golden boy)

Rivers passed away on April 2 just a month shy of turning 14! He was our foster that we adopted while we were in Texas back in 2002 and his best friend was our Duncan that passed away in March of 2009 so we know Rivers and Duncan are romping together again.

Peg Graham

Rainbow Bridge

We said goodbye to our sweet Sampson yesterday. He was the best dog and friend we could ask for. A extremely stoic and humble guy who was loyal until the very end. We will miss our goofy and cute “Mr. Sampson Pants” terribly and we are thank-ful to SEVA GRREAT for letting him be a part of our family.

Sarah Elizabeth Dykens

Wendy

Rivers

Sampson

ZoeZoe was a beloved part of our family and will be sincerely missed. She was 13 years old when she passed, out living her expectancy of 10 years, so we feel she lived a happy life and stuck around as long as she did because of the peace and joy she found within our family. Thank you SEVA GRREAT for giving us the opportunity to fall in love with her and start our family with her.

Liz & Greg Gibbons


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Nothing can take years off our lives, and the lives of our family, like a disease or illness. Fortunately, new research indicates that having a dog in the home can help keep everyone’s cold at bay.

According to the journal Pediatrics, children who live in a home with a pet during their first year of life are more likely to be healthier than those who don’t live in a home with a pet. Those with a dog in the home had 31 percent fewer respiratory tract infections and 44 percent fewer ear infections than children who didn’t live with a dog, research found.

Dogs are Natural De-StressorsThere’s nothing better than a happy pup to come home to after a long, stressful day at work. A simple wagging tail and big smooch can bring an instant smile to our faces and help melt away our worries. According study in the journal Hyperten-sion, the support we get from owning a pet can also help lower our blood pressure. The study found that among people taking ACE inhibitors for high blood pressure, having a pet seemed to help stabilize their blood pressure levels during moments of stress.

SUMMER 2013

Dogs Keep the Whole Family Healthy

18

T his is the story of a rescue dog and his new family, and how we forged our own

path to love and trust.

Lincoln came to us in July 2011 at 2 years old, and joined our family of 3 other dogs --two females and a male. As the youngest of the pack, he quickly learned to fit in but he had little to no self esteem. Loud noises scared him, he was very timid in new situations, and he was uncomfortable with hugs and close contact with humans. I wanted so much to find a way for us to bond and help build his confidence.

In December of 2011, I found that outlet. It’s called agility.

Agility is a combination sport of timing and accuracy - the dog must go over various types of obstacles in a prescribed order, and within

Meet Lincoln From Rescue Dog

to Agility Champ


by Sandi Pitini

19

the course time, to “qualify” on that run. As the dog advances in levels, the courses become more challenging and the times are shorter. The obstacles consist of jumps, weave poles (the dog threads through poles in a straight line), tunnels, and several “contact” obstacles (elevated platforms where the dog must cross in a controlled manner).

When we adopted Lincoln, my older golden male and I had been competing in agility trials. I had a small practice area in our yard where I worked with that dog on jumps and weaves. Lincoln watched us and became fascinated. Soon after that he went over the jumps on his own just for fun. When I retired his older brother from the sport in December 2011, I decided to enroll Lincoln in formal classes --he took to it like a duck to water.

From our home practice, I knew he could do the jumps. One of the more difficult obstacles to learn is the weave poles -- the dog must enter the poles with the first pole always on his left shoulder, regardless of the angle or direction he is coming from. I started Lincoln with very basic training, starting with 2 poles, and I planned to gradually increase to the ultimate 12 poles. This usually takes months to master. Well, Lincoln had other ideas. Unbeknownst to me, he had been watching his older brother run all 12. This particular day, he

got the most determined look on his face and, on his own, went to the weaves and ran 11 of the 12 poles perfectly. I was totally shocked and amazed. He accomplished this feat in only 3 weeks of training. I knew right then that I had a potential champion, and most importantly, a dog that truly loved this sport.

During training, he showed similar determination with the other obstacles - the teeter (see-saw) where the dog must run up to the center, find the balance point, then come down to the bottom keeping contact. The dog walk - running across a narrow plank almost 5 feet in the air, and maintain contact until he reaches the ground. The A-frame, a

steeple shaped obstacle, where the dog runs up the steep slope and down the other side, still maintaining contact till he hits ground. Tunnels that are long and dark. Learning to jump onto a table and staying there until told to go. And the training is only the start.

The real test is performing at competition trials. There are so many new experiences. It’s easy to run when the weather is cool and perfect, but part of competition is learning to adapt. We’ve run when it was so cold with constant winds, and gusts at 30 MPG, and the rain was coming down sideways. We’ve run in horse barns where the dirt was mixed with manure and the dogs had to ignore that smell and keep focused. Running inside where it’s so noisy the sounds echo off the walls, and lots of dogs barking, and we had to stay on course. Staying in hotels for the first time and going up in an elevator -that was a weird sensation for him. Getting to sleep together in the hotel bed so he will feel safe (oops, my husband was not supposed to know that). The days when

From Rescue Dog to Agility Champ

SUMMER 2013

20

we are so both hot and tired, but still have runs to complete.

People ask me why do you do this, don’t you get tired of the bad weather, long days, and the money outlay, is it really worth it? My answer is a resounding YES. I love running with him even when we don’t qualify. Figuring out how I can give him more information as we race through the course so he has a successful run.

I love having people tell me that he is smiling as he runs the course, and they can see that he is having so much fun. Watching us celebrate a successful run together with lots of whoops and hugs, and of course, treats for him. Most importantly, there is nothing more rewarding than running a challenging course with your dog, where he is so totally focused on you that he reads every instruction you give, and you finish with a perfect run. It feels so natural, it is smooth and almost effortless, a perfect team in harmony.

We started competing in March 2012, with only 3 months of training. His first event was a great success - both his runs qualified and

It’s a journey. We are making it together.

And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I love you, my sweet boy Lincoln!

he took home 1st and 2nd place ribbons. His accomplishments have continued over this past year, earning 6 titles, and we are still going strong. He is competing at the Masters Level in AKC, which is the highest category, and we are working on our ultimate goal, the PACH - Preferred Agility Champion. It will take us a long time to achieve but we are having the best fun as we go.

I started out thinking that agility would just be a fun sport. It has been that and so much more.

What we’ve learned together - Encountering strange new places, people and dogs, and being confident to handle them.

What I’ve learned - how to calm him when he is stressed, motivate him when he is distracted, and above all else, consistently show him how wonderful he is and how much I love him.Through agility, Lincoln has found himself. He has developed self confidence and we have bonded as a team. We have learned to trust each other. This sport has given us a very special gift, one that will continue forever.


21

SEVA GRREAT, Inc is a registered 501(c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to helping displaced Golden Retrievers find their new forever homes. We are an all-volunteer organization, operating entirely on donations and a dedicated network of volunteers. Our wonderful foster families will typically house the dogs in our program, care for them, and socialize them while SEVA GRREAT provides the necessary veterinary care.

Yet there are often people who want to help our organization but, for one reason or another, may not have the ability to volunteer, foster, or adopt. Our sponsorship program allows donors to make a one-time or recurring gift to offset the costs of our largest line-item (medical expenses), for the senior or special-needs dog of their choice. Your sponsorship dollars will go such a long way toward helping our Goldens that may spend a prolonged time in foster care due to medical needs.

ª Start by choosing the dog on the website that you would like to sponsor or ask us to choose a dog for you (watch our website for updates soon on dogs that need sponsors).

ª Fill out the sponsorship form telling us how you would like to support us.

–You can make a 1-time donation or a monthly donation via check or PayPal

ª Send your form via email to [email protected] or mail to P.O. Box 8014, Yorktown, VA 23693.

ª We will send you a photo of the dog that you are sponsoring along with that dog’s special story.

ª With your permission, we will list your name with your sponsored dog on the website and publish your name in our quarterly newsletter.

ª Once your sponsored dog is adopted, we will send you a closing letter. At that point you may end any re-occurring donations or roll it over to a new dog if you wish.

Sponsor-A-Dog Program

Your Name: ___________________________________________________________

Mailing Address: ___________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

Name of the dog that you would like to sponsor: _____________________________ Sponsorship level: Monthly donation 1-time donationBronze .......................................................... $10 ................................... $50Silver ............................................................. $20 ................................. $100Gold ............................................................. $50 ................................. $200Diamond ..................................................... $100 ................................. $300 If you would prefer to pay via check, please send your check with the information above to: SEVA GRREAT P.O. Box 8014 Yorktown, VA 23693 If you choose a monthly payment, do you want your sponsorship rolled over to a new dog? Yes___ No___

If yes, do you want to choose the new dog you sponsor (versus us choosing)? Yes___ No___

Do you agree to having your name recognized on our website and in our newsletter or would prefer to remain anonymous? Listed ____ Anonymous ______

SEVA GRREAT sincerely thanks you for your love and support of our Goldens!!!

modations too. For instance, dogs with arthritis might benefit from soft bedding in the form of a special dog bed or towels/blankets on which to sleep. Ramps can be used to make stairs easier to navigate if they cannot be avoided. Even providing carpeting or rugs over hard-surface flooring can help your arthritic dog gain his footing and make it easier for him to get around.

For more information and tips on caring for your senior dog, check out our Senior Pets Group at Pet360.com.

SUMMER 2013

Older Dog continued from page 10

be a long trek. If your senior is not used to exercise, start slow and gradually increase the intensity — and only after you’ve consulted a veterinarian. Also, be careful with short-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs on hot days.

Provide plenty of toys to keep your senior dog occupied. Food puzzles, for example, are not only useful for entertainment but for weight loss purposes as well.

Provide your older dog with special accom-

22

Scott BelandIn memory of Hollis

Stephanie CogleyIn honor of Chloe. Rest in peace sweet girl.

Rebecca RandolphDonation from Garth and Dog Scout Troop 194

Barbara HarmaonTo help all the goldens that need medical attention. In memory of Bill Harmon and the golden girls he loved - Angel, Stevie and Lexi

Barbara ThroppFor medical needs

Debbie Wood

Ann CzompoFor Lyla’s care

Jeanie PekenasFor Huck or Lucy

Kay Ashbrook

Natalie Weimer

Crystal Harless

Victoria Staples

Robert and Wynelle Seiler

Teresa Honeycutt and Jerry Killen

Mark and Carrie Templeman

Ann and Andor Czompo

Dave and Peggy MainIn memory of Rusty, Scotch and Bailey

Shannon Goertzen

Steven Griffin

Richanne Sensenig

Kathleen O’DonnellIn memory of my three Goldens; GRREAT’s Reilly, Gracee and Jack

Clay ClemensIn memory of Abby and Corky

Ginny and Jim HayesIn honor of our precious 14 year old Sassy and in memory of all the other Goldens who have owned us through the years

The Capital Group CompaniesIn honor of Ricky Hood

Dennis and Christine Shultis

Katherine Wells

James and Lorraine BennettIn honor of Holly and in memory of Kayce and Brandy

Carol Eckstrom

Lisa Mallory

Liz, Joe and Gracie DownesIn memory of Flash Notes and in honor of those who loved and cared for her: Helen and Johnny Noles; her brother Vito and her siblings; Blue, Sandy and Dreama

B. Barnes

Terry and John ShermanIn honor of Porter

Debbie and John Dahms

Bob and Peg GrahamIn memory of Red Rivers

Jo Vance

John and Dot OberlanderIn honor of adoptions and in memory of Duke

Erice Jones

Ginger’s Eatz and Treatz

Kristin Tamse

Rebecca Routson

Terri Rickan

Marilynn ZaunerIn memory of Levi Delmore

Mathew and Crystal Colohan

Coleen KenahHonoring volunteer Quan Li

William BukladSEVA GRREAT surgical dogs

Elizabeth WatsonIn support of the amazing advocacy of Jennifer Dauzier

Virginia pakenasLyla’s FundBob and Nicki Seger

Huckleberry’s FundDebra and Joseph MorrisNancy Tamse

Gracie’s FundNatalie WeimerDebra and Joseph MorrisKat RowlettAmelia Boyer

Sponsor-A-DogProgram


Contributions

CVCCommonwealth of

Virginia Campaign #3456

Combined FederalCampaign #88796

Name: _____________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________

E-mail: ____________________________________________

Home Phone: ________________________________________

Work Phone: ________________________________________

This is a new membership

Address Change

ADDITIONAL VOTING MEMBERS:(E-mail needs to be unique to vote.)

Name: _____________________________________________

E-mail: _____________________________________________

Name: _____________________________________________

E-mail: _____________________________________________

Name: _____________________________________________

E-mail: _____________________________________________

REMITTANCE:

I am enclosing my annual membership dues $ 25.00

Additional Voting members _____ @ $25 each $ ___________

Donation $ ___________

Calendar $ ___________

TOTAL REMITTANCE $ ___________

MY DONATION IS FOR: In Honor of In Memory of Other

Please have the Coordinator in the following area/areas contact me: (Check appropriate boxes)

These are listed in the order of urgent need by GRREAT.

FOSTERING — A temporary home for SEVA GRREAT dogs before they are adopted.

HOME EVALUATION –– visits for foster/adoption applicants.

TRANSPORTATION — primarily shuttling dogs and/or equipment as necessary. If you are interested in helping with transportation, can you help on:

(circle all that apply)

Weekdays Weekends Evenings

EVENTS — helping to hold/show dogs at “Golden Days,” helping with fund raisers, etc.

PUBLICITY — researching and writing stories for media release and newsletters, selling ads for the newsletter, taking photos at events, updating the web site, etc.

MERCHANDISE — to man booths selling SEVA GRREAT stuff at local dog shows / fairs / festivals / etc.

Our rescue is growing! In order to continue to save more dogs every year, we are looking for volunteers who would like to become more involved with the organization. If you are interested in assisting with intake, foster coordination, Golden Days or other areas on a regular basis, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at [email protected], for more information.

Please make checks payable to: SEVA GRREAT

Mail this form with your check to:

SEVA GRREATPO Box 8014Yorktown, VA 23693

REQUIRED FOR MEMBERSHIP:

I affirm that I have never been convicted of an animal abuse crime.

Date: __________________________________________________________________

Signature: ______________________________________________________________

SEVA GRREAT is a 501 (C)(3) organization • ALL DONATIONS & DUES ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE IN THE YEAR PAID

MEMBERSHIP, DONATION & VOLUNTEER FORMNote: Membership is open to all persons 18 years or older.

Watch for GRREAT’s 2014 Calendar Coming Out this Fall

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDYORKTOWN, VA

23693PERMIT NO. 11

President Dottie Cleal president@adoptagolden

Vice President Jane Frye [email protected]

Treasurer Jim O’Connell [email protected]

Secretary Nikki Seger [email protected]

Golden Day Coordinators: Southside: Peninsula: Donna Roggmann [email protected] Richmond: Jennifer Dauzier [email protected]

Microchip Coordinator Kathy Speak [email protected]

Intake Coordinator Rose Bennett [email protected]

Foster Coordinator Katie Show [email protected]

Adoption Coordinator Kelly O’Brien [email protected]

Membership Jacob Kay [email protected]

Volunteer Coordinator Quanzhan Li [email protected]

Board Member Melissa Pence Hunter [email protected]

Merchandise [email protected]

Fundraising Linda Lowman [email protected]

GRREAT Times magazine Brad Miller [email protected]

Press For

1 If you think you have found one of our Goldens based on the SEVA GRREAT tag or microchip.

2 To leave a message for the President

3 To give up a Golden Retriever or get more info on our intake process

4 For Information on Golden Days and other events.

5 To check on the status of an adoption or foster application.

6 For all other questions.

Foster Dog Medical Care

YORK VETERINARY CLINICYorktown

757-898-3700

COOKE VET MEDICAL CENTERChesapeake

757-547-9421

QUIOCCASIN VET HOSPITALRichmond

804-741-3200

ACREDALE ANIMAL HOSPITALVirginia Beach757-523-6100

ANDERSON’S CORNERToano

757-566-2224

SEVA GRREATP.O. Box 8014Yorktown, Va

SE VA GRREAT Contact Information

Like us on facebook!

Rescue Hotline757-827-8561

National Dog Registry1-800-NDR-DOGS

grreat times summer 2013

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