Most days driving into the ITV rescue, I'm filled with anticipation and excitement. I love to help find a new home for our many rescues. To raise money to support our always "too full" 24 -hour operating center. It is the cause that keeps me sane and makes me happy. This day was a little different.
Bo is a senior Shepherd Mix we rescued at animal control. His family decided he was too old and dumped him. We knew he needed rescued. He was 12 years old and never deserved to be dumped, so we promised him a new forever home. He fit in with our rescues and gave our techs a little run for their money. Bo was a bit stubborn and wanted to do things HIS way. We found middle ground and he lived here at ITV for several months. He got his one-on-one leash walks through-out the day, as well as playtime in our backyard. This golden mix guy was probably a super cute puppy in his first years. He likely loved raw hides since he still enjoyed chewing on them as a treat. We put him through the regular protocol and he soon was ready for adoption. Bo and his graying face could now look forward to sifting through the adoption applications and pick his forever home.
Seniors have a harder time finding an adopted family. Many people don't want to risk becoming attached to a companion who may only live a few years. Some people don't want to risk the costs that may incur with an older dog. But ANY dog, as humans, are never promised perfect health. They are never promised tomorrow. That's why here at ITV we strive to give the best care to our rescues every day. Every single day they are treated like kings and queens as they should be. Good nutrition. Socialization. Exercise. Healthcare. Plain old love. And more love.
Bo didnt get many serious inquiries, but we never give up on any of our potential adoptees. There is ALWAYS one person who can and will bond with any one of our furry family of rescues. It only takes ONE person. Bo lived at the rescue, so he got love from everyone. Staff, techs, volunteers and visitors. He was happy. He stayed stubborn, but we let him be happy.
Slowly, Bo wasn't acting his normal self. We knew something was wrong. Bo went to the vet as we sought treatment for him. He was given a possibility of few diagnosis and was put on a regimen of medications and special diet. Unfortunately, his situation did not improve. The vet suggested surgery. He thought Bo had bladder or kidney stones. Removing them would not be easy, but with recuperation and care, Bo could recover from stone removal.
Bo went through a very serious surgery we hoped would begin to heal him. Again, luck wasn't on his side. Bo had cancer and his organs were swollen well beyond normal size. This cancer could not be treated. There was not a fight to be fought. And we always fight the good fight here at ITV. Medication and our will to heal him was not working. Bo was in pain when the medication wore off and he did not have his zest for life. It wasn't fair to Bo. As much as we prayed and wanted him to live, we knew we had to do right by Bo. We promised him that at animal control as we made him an ITV Rescue dog! We owed that to him.
That Friday, I drove up to the teal painted building. Bo was outside with a ton of people around him. He was surrounded by all of the people who loved him. We know he loved us all too. Tears were streaming down every face. My heart was in my throat. I wanted to vomit. As much as we didnt want Bo to leave us, it was irresponsible to let him linger for our needs. Dr Yu was expecting Bo. He was surprised at the outpouring of love that showed up with him.
Two cars full of the people who loved Bo arrived at the Newburgh clinic. Bo got to ride shotgun. He got a very good walk. Tears are still creeping out of eyes and our hearts ached. We knew we needed to let Bo out of his pain as a natural death would be long and painful. This was a definite explained by the experienced vet who had operated on him and saw firsthand the cancer within our rescued dog. Bo had been a joy to all of us, and we intended to make good on our promise. He WOULD find the perfect forever home.
We all sat in a circle around Bo in the operatory room. Stories were shared about Bo. Many I hadn't heard and I felt closer to Bo knowing more about him. The love for Bo on each person's face was evident and touching. ITV isn't a place where rescues only live. It is a place where they are loved and given the best opportunity for their deserved life as we are able to give. We didn't want to be there doing this. It had to be done. There was no way we would send Bo along on his own. We gave him love. We all whispered caring words into his ear. Bo was even given a rawhide chew as a bribe to get him to lay down. He LOVED that chew and wasn't about to give it up.
The inevitable was to begin and we just concentrated on Bo. Each of us made sure he knew he was loved and his life was worth remembering. He needed to know we loved him enough to let him go. To cross to Rainbow Bridge without pain or suffering. To run and play and be the active stubborn dog he was born to be. Bo passed peacefully. He fell slowly into a forever sleep. One puff of air came out of his nose and he was gone. Gone from us, but amongst the angels and all the animals in Heaven.
I'm sure Bo caused quite a stir when he arrived and crossed Rainbow Bridge. I imagine all my previous personal dogs as well as a few foster dogs immediately greeted him. I'm certain he was besieged by every ITV rescue who also made the journey to that bridge. Bo was given instructions to say hello to my Teddy and Ellie Mae. I'm not sure he followed my wishes. Remember, Bo was stubborn. He was so stubborn he took his half eaten rawhide with him. I'm sure he has teased quite a few dogs with it by offering it, then taking it back. Yes, Bo would still be the amazing dog we fell in love with. He will be there to greet us when our time comes.
The one thing I'm certain Bo won't be though, is in pain. He won't cry out when his belly is rubbed. He won't throw up after he eats because his body was attacked by a horrible cancer. Because we loved Bo so much, we fulfilled our promise. We found him the perfect forever home. He's in acres of green grass and fields with lakes and many companions to frolick with. It's not the place we initially set out to place Bo. It was the humane thing to do. It would have been reckless and extremely selfish to not give Bo this ending. His humans didn't see that BO had a peaceful, pain free crossing. We did. We loved him THAT much. It wasn't easy. In fact, it sucked and we sobbed, but it was our responsibility to fulfill this humane life ending moment.
Bo...we loved you. You've impacted my heart and every heart you interacted with. You will not be forgotten. Your stories and legacy will live on. We know Phil and Capone are there with you showing you the ropes. I know I will see you again. I still think about you everyday. The tears are still flowing occasionally, but your pain was too intense. I know it was the right decision. Anything else would have been mean and selfish. Run Bo! Play tug with the ropes you so loved in life! Enjoy everlasting life without pain. We are still here working hard. You know our work will continue until all paws have a home. Enjoy your joyous Christmas and New Year in your forever home. Bo is there now. That place called Rainbow Bridge where all animals are blessed for all eternity.
Sincerely,
Lori Martin, Dog Advocate and ITV Volunteer.
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Kennel Caretakers Rock
When you walk into the ITV Canine rescue, you will see, hear and smell the dogs hoping to be adopted. Visitors come to meet the dogs. Some are looking for a new family member. Even though we have had a physical location for over three years, many have just recently heard of us and are curious what is inside the brightly painted teal building. Others are our regular Villagers who volunteer to keep the rescue running. Each and every person is welcome and appreciated.
What most people can't comprehend is the extent of work it takes to keep the doors open. At any given time, 100+ rescues depend on a small group of "behind the scenes" people, donations and and a lot of hard work to keep the adoption dream alive. Some rescues have been there a short time. Others, sadly, have been with us for months and sadly years. The ones in foster have a better chance at adoption. Fostered dogs get a home setting and training that most potential adopters are wanting. But, most of our rescues living at the center have the same qualities. It is just difficult to look beyond the kennel setting, the barking (each dog wants your attention), and the busyness behind each closed gate.
Our rescues aren't just dogs. Each dog that comes in becomes part of our ITV furry family. There is a core group of volunteers, techs and supporters who make sure every rescue gets as much love and care as possible. Behind the scenes is a lot of paperwork, appointments, transports and tedious details. Every person who helps our dogs is important. No position is more important than the other. However, the kennel techs and those who work directly with the dogs at the center are usually working behind the scenes and get very little public praise.
Working the kennels is a dirty and nasty job. Cleaning and caring for the ITV furry family isn't glamorous. At the end of the day, our caregivers are dirty, stinky and sweaty. Making certain the dogs are fed, exercised and socialized takes a lot of energy. Keeping the area clean...lets face it....it's just a dirty, no fun part of the process. Fortunately, here at ITV, we have a group who love our rescues and look past the "yucky" part of a running rescue center. They were born animal lovers and dedicate their energies to do the work most people would never do. Without this group of hard working techs, our rescues would never be desirable to anyone. In truth, they are the fosters of our center rescues.
Our kennel staff is headed by an animal lover who has dread locks and a beautiful smile. Her heart is the shape of a paw print. She knows every rescue's personality, wants and needs. She often puts the dogs ahead of her own self. Many days we can hear her serenading the dogs as the radio plays while she works. She has a rotation that allows every dog to get many leash walks daily as well as scheduled playgroups so the dogs can have recess in the backyard.
Our kennel manager, Beth, is a rockstar in her own way. But no kennel can run successfully without a hard working and dedicated crew. ITV's kennel staff are all animal lovers. I'm sure there are moments they wonder why they work so hard. Each person's payoff is different. It may be a sloppy doggy kiss or a big furry hug. Whatever it is, the dogs and the supporters here at ITV appreciate each and everyone of them. Our dogs would have less chance at adoption without them. Each dog learns manners, gets socialized and often special tricks from our techs.
The board of directors recently threw a Christmas party for this group of hard workers. We had pizza buffet, a fun white elephant game, and handed each a gift. A very small token of our appreciation. There were a lot of laughs and a good time was had by all. We all went back to the rescue and finished walking the dogs and cleaned. (It's a never ending process). Like I said before, no position at ITV is more important than another. Everyone works to keep the process going so every ITV rescue will eventually have it's special adoption day. Our hearts and love for dogs keep us fueled. We know there is a family for every rescue.
The next time you walk into ITV, keep your eyes open for our kennel techs. They are an important cog in our operation and are often overlooked. Our dogs love and appreciate them. We love and appreciate them. We wish our efforts weren't needed, but we will continue. We all have the same mission......rescue until all paws find a home.
What most people can't comprehend is the extent of work it takes to keep the doors open. At any given time, 100+ rescues depend on a small group of "behind the scenes" people, donations and and a lot of hard work to keep the adoption dream alive. Some rescues have been there a short time. Others, sadly, have been with us for months and sadly years. The ones in foster have a better chance at adoption. Fostered dogs get a home setting and training that most potential adopters are wanting. But, most of our rescues living at the center have the same qualities. It is just difficult to look beyond the kennel setting, the barking (each dog wants your attention), and the busyness behind each closed gate.
Our rescues aren't just dogs. Each dog that comes in becomes part of our ITV furry family. There is a core group of volunteers, techs and supporters who make sure every rescue gets as much love and care as possible. Behind the scenes is a lot of paperwork, appointments, transports and tedious details. Every person who helps our dogs is important. No position is more important than the other. However, the kennel techs and those who work directly with the dogs at the center are usually working behind the scenes and get very little public praise.
Working the kennels is a dirty and nasty job. Cleaning and caring for the ITV furry family isn't glamorous. At the end of the day, our caregivers are dirty, stinky and sweaty. Making certain the dogs are fed, exercised and socialized takes a lot of energy. Keeping the area clean...lets face it....it's just a dirty, no fun part of the process. Fortunately, here at ITV, we have a group who love our rescues and look past the "yucky" part of a running rescue center. They were born animal lovers and dedicate their energies to do the work most people would never do. Without this group of hard working techs, our rescues would never be desirable to anyone. In truth, they are the fosters of our center rescues.
Our kennel staff is headed by an animal lover who has dread locks and a beautiful smile. Her heart is the shape of a paw print. She knows every rescue's personality, wants and needs. She often puts the dogs ahead of her own self. Many days we can hear her serenading the dogs as the radio plays while she works. She has a rotation that allows every dog to get many leash walks daily as well as scheduled playgroups so the dogs can have recess in the backyard.
Our kennel manager, Beth, is a rockstar in her own way. But no kennel can run successfully without a hard working and dedicated crew. ITV's kennel staff are all animal lovers. I'm sure there are moments they wonder why they work so hard. Each person's payoff is different. It may be a sloppy doggy kiss or a big furry hug. Whatever it is, the dogs and the supporters here at ITV appreciate each and everyone of them. Our dogs would have less chance at adoption without them. Each dog learns manners, gets socialized and often special tricks from our techs.
The board of directors recently threw a Christmas party for this group of hard workers. We had pizza buffet, a fun white elephant game, and handed each a gift. A very small token of our appreciation. There were a lot of laughs and a good time was had by all. We all went back to the rescue and finished walking the dogs and cleaned. (It's a never ending process). Like I said before, no position at ITV is more important than another. Everyone works to keep the process going so every ITV rescue will eventually have it's special adoption day. Our hearts and love for dogs keep us fueled. We know there is a family for every rescue.
The next time you walk into ITV, keep your eyes open for our kennel techs. They are an important cog in our operation and are often overlooked. Our dogs love and appreciate them. We love and appreciate them. We wish our efforts weren't needed, but we will continue. We all have the same mission......rescue until all paws find a home.
Monday, December 7, 2015
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Another day of rescue
Some days in rescue are just so stressful and taxing. You go to sleep in tears. What else can I do? Am I really in the right place? Of course all rescuers have personal dogs....several are likely foster fails. They huddle around you and give the love so needed at the moment. Sleep refreshes the body. The sun is peeking through the windows. It's a new day. It's a new chance to save a canine life.
Pulling into ITV's parking lot and seeing the rescue is similar to seeing a rainbow. The building is a bright beautiful teal color. Along the exterior walls, characatures of different breeds of dogs are painted, greeting you with happiness. Of course, I'm walking in before hours to see how I can assist before our dog family gets to greet the public. Getting everything spiffy and smelling as nice as possible in a rescue. Making ITV welcoming so our family of rescues have their chance at finding their forever family.
I'm not a trainer....just a lover of all dogs. When I walk in I get that baby voice and get excited to see every ITV rescue. In the front we have crates set up for some of the smaller dogs. (There is NEVER enough space no matter what minute, hour or day it is.) Penni is a gorgeous Boston Terrier Mix. She's full of energy. She LOVES me!!! If I walk in and pass her by to greet Mini Max or Jake first, she lets me know. So, Penni and I have our love Fest. She wants her head rubbed. Then she moves each side against the crate so I can give her a good rubbing. We talk, she smiles, and she's ready for the day. I'm hoping soon I will be shedding happy tears as she walks out with her lucky forever family.
Next, I make my way to the main kennel area. Often, I have a bag of burgers or other goodies. Today I don't, but each dog is happy to see me. I go down the line of kennels. We have beds, blankets and anything we can to make them comfortable. I am use to this. The first month I volunteered, I cried every time I went in there. Now, knowing we do everything we can to keep them happy, I give them extra loving. The alternative is euthenizing. That is not an option here at ITV.
We have very sweet dogs in our main kennel. It is intimidating to walk back there if you are not accustomed to it. The dogs all bark. They want your attention. They want some social time with with you. Its worth it. They want to convince you they are ready to be your new best friend. You'll see Sonny to your left as you first walk in. He's a handsome brown Terrier/Pit Mix. Yes, we have a lot of Pit mixes. Until laws change and people start being responsible, this will continue.
Agnes sits on the right. A white mix gal with interesting facial markings. What a lover she is once she's out and away from some of the craziness. Rucca...oh Rucca! She's just one of my favorites. She has big perky ears and ALWAYS a toy in her mouth. Thank goodness for Nerf donations. Nerf footballs are her favorites. She's always smiling and happy, even with the toy in her mouth! Shes high energy but so much fun and a lover. I don't understand why she's been here so long. I know how fabulous she truly is. Sierra just looks at me and I know she wants some love and body rubs. Sam is a Shep Mix and always has eyeliner on so his eyes just pop and look into your soul. Cali, a Pointer Mix, stops and lets me talk and give her loving. Nestlé, Lucy, Oscar and Boxer Lilly wait their turns. They think they are the lucky ones because they get special attention and sometimes a very special extra treat. Nope! I am the lucky one! All of us helping at ITV are the lucky ones.
The rescue center is being cleaned and readied to open. I tell each dog, "This could be your lucky day! Work it good!" Each dog has been through difficult times. Each dog is resilient. They still love and are happy. They just want to give and be loved. It's Thursday. Normally a slow day here at ITV. But, it only takes ONE person. Just one person to meet and fall in love with their new best friend. I'm an optimist. I know these rescues have someone out there who will see what we see. I invite you to come in and see what each ITV member sees in our rescues.
Even if you can't adopt, there are so many ways to help. Saturday December 5 and 12, Santa is here. We have a professional photographer to get the photo perfect. My new grandson even came last year and now has his first Christmas photo from ITV. We even have a crafty volunteer who will be offering your photo on a tree ornament. Just drive down Stockwell Road off Morgan Ave and The Loyd Expressway. You'll see the bright teal building. It will make you smile. When you come in and are greeted by our wonderful staff, you too, will understand how much joy these dogs bring.
UNTIL ALL PAWS HAVE A HOME,
Lori the crazy dog lover at ITV (one of the many)
Pulling into ITV's parking lot and seeing the rescue is similar to seeing a rainbow. The building is a bright beautiful teal color. Along the exterior walls, characatures of different breeds of dogs are painted, greeting you with happiness. Of course, I'm walking in before hours to see how I can assist before our dog family gets to greet the public. Getting everything spiffy and smelling as nice as possible in a rescue. Making ITV welcoming so our family of rescues have their chance at finding their forever family.
I'm not a trainer....just a lover of all dogs. When I walk in I get that baby voice and get excited to see every ITV rescue. In the front we have crates set up for some of the smaller dogs. (There is NEVER enough space no matter what minute, hour or day it is.) Penni is a gorgeous Boston Terrier Mix. She's full of energy. She LOVES me!!! If I walk in and pass her by to greet Mini Max or Jake first, she lets me know. So, Penni and I have our love Fest. She wants her head rubbed. Then she moves each side against the crate so I can give her a good rubbing. We talk, she smiles, and she's ready for the day. I'm hoping soon I will be shedding happy tears as she walks out with her lucky forever family.
Next, I make my way to the main kennel area. Often, I have a bag of burgers or other goodies. Today I don't, but each dog is happy to see me. I go down the line of kennels. We have beds, blankets and anything we can to make them comfortable. I am use to this. The first month I volunteered, I cried every time I went in there. Now, knowing we do everything we can to keep them happy, I give them extra loving. The alternative is euthenizing. That is not an option here at ITV.
We have very sweet dogs in our main kennel. It is intimidating to walk back there if you are not accustomed to it. The dogs all bark. They want your attention. They want some social time with with you. Its worth it. They want to convince you they are ready to be your new best friend. You'll see Sonny to your left as you first walk in. He's a handsome brown Terrier/Pit Mix. Yes, we have a lot of Pit mixes. Until laws change and people start being responsible, this will continue.
Agnes sits on the right. A white mix gal with interesting facial markings. What a lover she is once she's out and away from some of the craziness. Rucca...oh Rucca! She's just one of my favorites. She has big perky ears and ALWAYS a toy in her mouth. Thank goodness for Nerf donations. Nerf footballs are her favorites. She's always smiling and happy, even with the toy in her mouth! Shes high energy but so much fun and a lover. I don't understand why she's been here so long. I know how fabulous she truly is. Sierra just looks at me and I know she wants some love and body rubs. Sam is a Shep Mix and always has eyeliner on so his eyes just pop and look into your soul. Cali, a Pointer Mix, stops and lets me talk and give her loving. Nestlé, Lucy, Oscar and Boxer Lilly wait their turns. They think they are the lucky ones because they get special attention and sometimes a very special extra treat. Nope! I am the lucky one! All of us helping at ITV are the lucky ones.
The rescue center is being cleaned and readied to open. I tell each dog, "This could be your lucky day! Work it good!" Each dog has been through difficult times. Each dog is resilient. They still love and are happy. They just want to give and be loved. It's Thursday. Normally a slow day here at ITV. But, it only takes ONE person. Just one person to meet and fall in love with their new best friend. I'm an optimist. I know these rescues have someone out there who will see what we see. I invite you to come in and see what each ITV member sees in our rescues.
Even if you can't adopt, there are so many ways to help. Saturday December 5 and 12, Santa is here. We have a professional photographer to get the photo perfect. My new grandson even came last year and now has his first Christmas photo from ITV. We even have a crafty volunteer who will be offering your photo on a tree ornament. Just drive down Stockwell Road off Morgan Ave and The Loyd Expressway. You'll see the bright teal building. It will make you smile. When you come in and are greeted by our wonderful staff, you too, will understand how much joy these dogs bring.
UNTIL ALL PAWS HAVE A HOME,
Lori the crazy dog lover at ITV (one of the many)
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