Thursday, November 17, 2011

Tough Decisions

Being in animal rescue has it’s emotional ups and downs.  Working with Mostly Mutts is mostly ‘up’ because we don’t deal with the families who abuse and neglect the dogs we rescue.  Unlike animal control officers, we don’t meet the families who surrender personal animals because they are an ‘inconvenience’.  We meet the dogs when they come to us, many scared and nervous, but most of them greet us with wagging tails and kisses.  They don’t know us but they accept our help and trust us to do the best for them.  Most of these dogs recover from their emotional or physical issues while with Mostly Mutts and then go on to live happily ever after in their new adopted homes. 

Not all dogs find forever homes though.  Mostly Mutts contract reads that we adopt dogs known to have no aggression toward people, food or other animals, or we disclose the behaviors.   We cannot, and will not,  place a dog into a home if we consider it to be “dangerous”.    

Take the story of Tucker, a Border Collie mix.  Tucker was adopted as a puppy and was returned after one year by his family because he was snapping at people and showing aggressive behaviors. Tucker was about 60 pounds, so when returned he was immediately taken to a trainer who assesses dogs for Mostly Mutts and she agreed that Tucker should be put to sleep after he bit her (fortunately on her boot).  Tucker was picked up from her facility by Mostly Mutts and brought back to the MM shelter.  He was to be taken to a vet clinic to be put down.  However, as he met each volunteer, he showed no aggressive behaviors and actually was a fun, happy and highly likable dog.  We made an assumption that he was not treated well by his former family and now was relaxed and happy.  We gave him the benefit of the doubt.

Even though he now had one ‘bite case’ Tucker went to adoptions every weekend and some of the volunteers grew very close to him.   He did well at the shelter and then found a foster home with a young college kid who adored Tucker.  He told us what a great dog Tucker was and even though Tucker was cautious around strangers, the foster dad had not witnessed any aggressive behaviors. 

As weeks passed and he was not adopted, he started to get a little unpredictable and did bite three people at adoptions.  None of these bites were serious and none needed medical attention, but they were unprovoked and unexpected.  A volunteer was assigned to him at adoptions to supervise him. 

One night the foster dad called me in a panic and told me that Tucker got out the front door and ran over to a lady talking on her phone and bit her on the leg.  At first the woman panicked but once she knew she was okay, she calmed down.  She was extremely frightened, the foster dad was very upset, and I knew MM had to make a very tough decision about Tucker.  That was his 5th bite case and this one was totally unprovoked. 

In order for a Mostly Mutts dog to be put down, two board members and a veterinarian must agree.  In Tucker’s case, it was unanimous for many reasons.  He’s a large dog, he was unpredictable, he certainly would have bitten again and MM could be held liable if anyone was to get hurt.  If he were a Chihuahua, things would have been different.   We had no choice but to put him down.    

Euthanizing a physically healthy dog hurts deep, deep inside.  Even though the volunteers agreed, it didn’t make it any easier for anyone.  Tucker won his way into many hearts and he is missed very much. 

Mostly Mutts has its highs and lows, and losing Tucker was certainly a low point.  


Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Help Mostly Mutts During the Holidays!

Holidays are ahead
Please start thinking about your holiday
donations and keep our Mutts in mind!!
Your support is their biggest gift.  
  
Here is a Free and Easy way to raise funds for Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue:
This is going to be the easiest thing we've ever asked you to do!  Especially with the holiday shopping season around the corner, and of course year round, every time you shop online or search the internet, a donation will be made to Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue (Kennesaw-GA) by usingGoodSearch.com .
  
 GoodShop.com works with more than 2,500 stores (including Target, Apple, Petsmart etc) and every time you purchase something, up to 30% will be donated to us!  And, even more exciting, GoodShop also offers over 100,000 of the most up-to-date coupons and free shipping offers so you can save money at the same  time.  It's win win.

 GoodSearch.com is a Yahoo powered search engine which makes a donation to us each time you do a search

Join our community in using these sites to help us easily raise money for our mission.  Get started by clicking the "Become a Supporter" button on our profile page  here !

Monday, October 24, 2011

Happily Ever After.....

Mostly Mutts has placed many animals in loving, wonderful forever homes and it's what we love the best about rescuing.  Below is an excerpt from a letter we received after a recent adoption:
I cannot begin to tell you how much I love her and what a blessing Molly has been.  We have found a wonderful dog park in McDonough; it's very clean, with grass, trees, toys, water, etc.  It's so much fun to arrive there and hear dog owners tell their dogs,  "Look, here's Molly!"  She LOVES to play with other dogs, so I provide that opportunity for her often.  She is also wonderful with children and seniors.  I recently took her to visit a friend of mine who was having her 93rd birthday and I wish you could have been there to see how sweet and sensitive Molly was with her.  She just graduated from her beginner class at Pet Smart, and is enrolled to take the intermediate class.  She is the smartest dog I have ever owned, loves to learn, and loves to please. I am seriously considering looking into training for her to become a therapy dog, as she seems to have all of the qualities that it would take to make anyone's day a little brighter.  I could go on and on and on, but hopefully these photos will tell you a little more about her. I sincerely thank everyone at Mostly Mutts for the love and care that was given to Molly before she came to live with me.  Thanks again for such a beautiful gift.



 Looks like Molly has found the perfect family!  If you are looking for a new member to your crew, visit us on the weekends at our adoption events.  Saturdays we're at Pet Smart at Town Center in Kennesaw and the first, second and third Sunday's at the Ansley Mall Pet Supermarket.



Friday, October 14, 2011

Melody-A New Lease on Life!

Melody 
 It's hard to forget the courageous story of Melody Victoria, the sweet pit bull mix whose owner abused her by sticking her in an oven.  This blog carried two stories on her fight and progress as she healed.  Melody has since found a wonderful home and is happy, content and loving life!  Mostly Mutts recently spoke with Melody's new owners and wanted to bring our readers an update on where things are with this amazing little doggie!


Melody at her favorite spot, Bark Station!

It's great to hear that Melody is adjusting to her new home and did so very quickly.  She is on a schedule that she enjoys and her and her older sister love to play together.

Her "dad," Nick, says that her favorite thing to do is go for car rides....especially to the place she loves to play, Bark Station!  Melody also likes to chew on her bones and nurse her blanket.

The good news is that Melody is completely healed and needs no further care for the injuries she so cruelly sustained.  She has gone to the vet for her checkup and received her bordetella shot.  She almost earned the nickname "tee tee terrorist" but a quick visit to the vet discovered that she has a urinary tract infection.  After a round of antibiotics she is doing much better!  Nick says that she is almost completely healed from her injuries.  Although her pads are healed, she limps somewhat  due to the fussed toes on her rear paw.  She is scratching a lot right now because of the hair growing back over her scars.

We asked Nick if Melody ever seems frightened or if it appears that she remembers what she went through.  Nick says that at first she would have loud dreams, whimpering and twitching but that those are happening fewer and fewer these days.  She does barks at strangers and takes time to warm up to new people.

Melody does plays well with other dogs.  She loves going to doggie day care at Bark Station!

Best thing about Melody?  She is very much a love bug, loving to cuddle and sleep all over her new family who she always seems to want to be touching.  Nick also says they discovered the reason for her name being Melody; she actually will sing to you to get your attention.

We asked Nick why he and his wife specifically chose Melody to adopt.  He says that they were looking for a companion for Issa, their other dog,  when they read the story about Melody. "We knew she would be a dog that would need a lot of love and we had a lot of love to give. We were just drawn to her -  we knew that she was the dog that we had been searching for.  I told my wife months before meeting Melody that I wanted a blue pit with the light colored eyes."

Nick adds that Melody has taken to training well and has already learned sit, stay, lay down, come here, leave it, etc.  Melody has a new lease on life and finally has a home that loves and adores her.  Mostly Mutts loves this happy ending!

 

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

What Should I Feed My Dog?

Mostly Mutts highly recommends you purchase the highest quality food for your dog you can afford.  Read the ingredient labels.  Avoid foods that consist of meat by-products. These can include feet, gristle, and all kinds of things not good for your dog.  The best food is where the first ingredient is a meat or chicken meal and no by-products. Also avoid food and treats that are preserved with BHA and/or BHT.  These preservatives have been linked to possible cancer, in both humans and animals.

Always be very careful giving dogs “people food."  Examples of  good "people treats" are carrots, apples, cottage cheese, grilled or boiled boneless chicken, hard-boiled egg slices, pumpkin, cooked or from a can, broccoli and green beans.   NEVER give your dogs raisins, grapes, chocolate, raw onions, garlic or Macadamia nuts as they are very toxic and can cause major liver problems and possible death.  Xylitol, a sweetener found in some sugar-free chewing gums, candies, baked goods and other products is also extremely dangerous for dogs and can be fatal. Be sure to keep any product containing Xylitol away from your pets. 

Some controversial ingredients to look out for:

  • Propylene glycol - formerly considered a generally safe additive. Current studies show that it reduces the survival of red blood cells. Propylene glycol is now prohibited in cat foods. 
  • Eethoxyquin - used for many years as an additive. Current studies show links to allergic reactions, skin problems, major organ failure and cancer.


Keep in mind obese dogs are unhealthy dogs and a dog who is only 10% overweight could have his lifespan shortened by 33%.  Obese pets can suffer from orthopedic disorders, respiratory difficulties, heat intolerance, heart disease, gastrointestinal distress, diabetes, incontinence, urinary tract infections and stones, immune system suppression and cancer. 

Keep your dog healthy and you’ll all be happier. Please remember the first ingredient should be a meat or a  meal, but NO byproducts.  We recommend you do not buy Beneful as the first ingredient is corn, the second by-products.  Animals need protein from meat.  If changing food, do it gradually.  MM also does not recommend rawhides nor treats preserved with BHA and/or BHT as they are being linked to cancer

Monday, September 19, 2011

Daisy's Story

She was a 4 month old sweet chocolate Labrador that should have been with a loving family and enjoying her puppy hood. Instead, she was dumped at a shelter where she was scared and wondering what she had done to deserve this. Daisy had done nothing except being born and that wasn’t her fault! As each day passed, she kept thinking they would come back for her, so the emotions of confusion, sadness and fear stressed her young body. With this, her body was invaded by a dreaded disease that can be deadly to unvaccinated dogs, mostly young ones. If treated early, the survival rate is higher. A volunteer with Mostly Mutts found out about her and remembered a couple that was looking for a Lab puppy. They were contacted and signed-up to foster and possibly adopt. Once they saw her shelter picture, they named her Daisy and were almost positive they were going to keep her. When the volunteer saw her, she knew she was very sick, so she called the couple and ask if they were still interested with her being sick. Without hesitation, they were on board and ready to meet the volunteer and Daisy at the closest vet since she needed immediate medical attention. While she was in the exam room, the couple patiently waited to meet their new puppy and take her home. That did not happen. Their first meeting was while Daisy’s lifeless body was laying on the exam table. She was now wrapped in a blanket and had a name for the first time in her short life. She never got to meet the family that wanted to give her love and comfort.  Please do not let Daisy’s death be in vain. Spay/neuter and vaccinate!  Donate to rescue groups, so they can save more lives and pay their overwhelming vet bills. Rest in Peace sweet Angel!

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

What's Up With the Mutts?!

Mostly Mutts has been having phenomenal success at each at our adoptions.  This past weekend we had over 14 dogs and cats adopted or moved into foster homes.  Now we can save 14 plus other animals from terrible situations and give them a second lease of life.  Thank you to everyone who opened their hearts and homes!

Arnold the pig was adopted out this weekend to a family who has a small farm and is starting to add animals to it.  Yea for Arnold!

Did you know that the medicine used to treat heartworm in pets is now no longer available from the distributor?  That means that it is now more important than ever to keep your pet on preventative medicine.  Look for a blog post in the next few days for more information on how to ensure your pet is protected.

Want to help the Mutts earn some much needed donations?  We have two fund raisers coming up so come join us!  If you like tennis, we have a tournament and silent auction coming at Lost Mountain Park off Dallas Highway on October 28 and running through October 30.  We need players from junior age on up for junior singles, men’s and women’s doubles, mixed doubles and parent and child doubles.  Fees are $30 for singles, $40 for doubles and include a T-shirt, gift bag and players party.  Call 770-528-8525 to register or for more info.  Play some tennis and help the Mutts!

We have two folks ready to help out with a high end thrift shop to benefit the Mutts who are looking for retail space in the Piedmont Park area.  They really need an affordable location and the landlords can get a tax write off.  If you know of a space please contact Diana at Dianad@bellsouth.net. 

Need your Mostly Mutts fix?  Connect with us socially at the following location and be sure you’re not “chasing your tail” to find out the latest happening with the Mutts!  You have found our blog; now find us at the following places:


Want to be a volunteer or a foster parent?  We can use you!  Contact us at volunterr@mostlymutts.org or foster@mostlymutts.org for more information.

As always, we appreciate your support!

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Tips From the Pros


Mostly Mutts is blessed to have scores of volunteers  who generously give of their time to help our organization.  As you can imagine, working with the many dogs and kitties that come our way, we’ve gathered some pretty valuable learning experiences between us all.  So who better to pass along helpful hints to our blogosphere?  Some of these we’ve learned through trial and error, bad experiences, common sense or just because we had to.  What about you?  Do you have a helpful hint you can share?  Be sure to leave it at the bottom of the post in the comments section.  Thanks to all our tireless volunteers, foster parents, adoptive families and staff who took the time to pass along these great ideas!  (below is the opinion of non-professionals)

TOY BOX:  The one thing we can guarantee from that new puppy of yours is that it will chew.  NEVER correct a puppy for chewing…just teach it what he/she is allowed to chew on.  Find a box that can be used as a ‘toy box’ (wicker baskets not recommened J) and then purchase several different types of toys.  Add to this box a ball, a squeaky toy, a rope, a Nylabone type chewy, and several other types of toys.  When you purchase a new toy, always place it in the toy box instead of giving it directly to your dog.  It won’t be long before your dog learns that everything in that box is his/hers!  Pick up each toy before going to bed and they will all be like new the next day.  Or…rotate the toys in the toy box ever few days.  Adult dogs also like to chew, so make sure they have a toy box!  Toys are important in kennels too so leave your dog with a chew toy or a Kong. 

POTTY TRAINING:  Stay on a good routine, keep your dog confined to an area, and leash walk them to a particular area where you want them to potty.  It may take a week or two but the more consistent you are, the more consistent they will be.  Always bring a very special food reward to give to them after they potty.  Save this special reward for potty only and don’t give it to them any other time. 

FOOD AND BOWLS:
When it comes to pet food, you do “get what you pay for’.  Feed the best food you can afford and look at the first five ingredients.  The first should be food and the others should be healthy. 
Dogs:   Use a huge water bowl so you don’t have to keep refilling it.  Use a very small food bowl so you don’t overfeed.
Cats:  Plastic bowls may cause "kitty acne."  Typically cats do not like to have their water bowl next to their food bowl.

TRAINING:
The number one reason for bad behaviors is a lack of exercise.  For many dogs, a walk is just not enough.  They need to RUN!!   
Wear your dog out with a game of fetch BEFORE you go on your walk.  This is especially important for dogs that pull hard. 
The second reason dogs develop bad behaviors is because they are bored.  Dogs are pack animals and can be destructive if left alone.  They need another dog to play with or their family with them.  Use a doggy day care if your dog does not do well alone while you are working all day.  That will make them very happy (well, at least most dogs). 
Dogs that live in fenced yards may get exercise, but they may still get bored.  WALK your dog a minimum of once a day.
Dogs repeat behaviors that are rewarded.  Therefore, focus on your dog’s good behaviors and reward them when they do something you like . 

TREATS:  We don’t recommend pig ears or cow hooves as they may not be pasteurized and there have been reports of dogs getting sick. 
We recommend COMPRESSED bones over RAWHIDE bones (ask the store assistance to show you the difference). 

COLLARS/LEASHES:  Invest in is a good quality 6’ leather or nylon leash.  Retractable leashes are not used for training.  Nylon or leather collars are best. You should never use a choke chain unless you are trained to use one…they are for training only and not to be used as a collar.  TRAIN your dog to not pull when on a leash (sign up for a training class to learn how).  However, if your dog pulls and you must have more control immediately, here are some suggestions.  Prong collars (or pinch collars) may look bad but they offer the most control when walking a dog that pulls.  Halti and Gentle Leaders are great ways to walk a dog that pulls but the dog must get used to the head halter first.  No-pull harnesses are also successful. 

MISCELLANEOUS: 
A tablespoon of yogurt will stop ear yeast infections and stop diarrhea due to antibiotics.

Turn on a radio or TV when your pet stays home alone. 

Bathing a dog in Dawn Dish Soap is an effective and inexpensive way to kill fleas.  It is safe for animals and kills fleas on contact.

Prescriptions are available for your pets at Target, Publix, Wal-Mart etc.  From one dog owner:  My dog has congestive heart failure and is on Lasix and Enalapril.  I can get both filled for $12 each (for a 100 for him).  Target periodically runs a coupon that if you bring in a new scrip you get a $10 gift card.  The pills by themselves are a great deal but coupled with the coupon, it’s incredible.

Remove a tick safely by applying a glob of liquid soap to a cotton ball.  Cover  the tick with the soap-soaked cotton ball  and swab it for a few seconds (15-20), the  tick will come out on its own and be stuck  to the cotton ball when you lift it away.

Friday, August 12, 2011

Why Mostly Mutts Promotes Spay/Neuter


Below is a letter we received this week from a family who wished to foster a dog through us but didn’t because of our sincere belief in the importance of spay/neuter.  This is not the first vocalization of disagreement with our policy but we wanted to share it with all our blog readers and future Mostly Mutts families as to why our policy is the way it is.

The letter reads as follows:

……We are hesitant to have our pug fixed because we want to be able to breed him in the future.  So it looks like we won't be able to foster or adopt through Mostly Mutts.  My intention was to foster for as little as a few days, and then proceed to the adoption.

I've heard from other friends with kind, loving homes that adopting a dog through a rescue agency is very difficult because of the stringent requirements of the agency, and I was hesitant to even apply for that very reason.  Our dogs are all happy, healthy and very much loved.  While I respect and appreciate your mission, I have to say that the risk of unwanted puppies in our case seems almost non-existent, as we have three male dogs and were asking to foster another male dog.  We've decided to adopt from a breeder rather than comply with your requirements.  The cost will be approximately the same as adopting from your agency, and we will have a dog to love, but we will all miss the benefit of helping a potentially homeless dog find a good home.

Our response:

We obviously have one thing in common and that is that we love dogs.  Let us share our perspective as to why we have the policies we have.  Maybe when you see this through the eyes of a rescuer, you may understand. 

Just yesterday we went to an animal control and rescued four dogs with a “white slip.”  The white slip means that they are on the euthanasia list for this morning.  Even though almost 50% of the dogs seen had white slips on their kennels, we could only take four because that’s all we had room for.  There were three litters of puppies there and they had ‘white slips’ on their kennels too.  We’re happy we rescued four but so sad that about fifty were euthanized just this morning at this one facility.  Animal control’s intake is approximately 30-50 dogs and cats (including many puppies and kittens) a DAY.  There is an epidemic out there that most people are unaware of. 

The problems is that our region, and pretty much all over the United States, has an overpopulation of puppies and kittens.  The reason for this overpopulation is that people allow their dogs and cats to breed…either accidentally or on purpose.  70,000 kittens and puppies are born EACH DAY.  It is impossible to place this many animals in homes therefore the majority of these animals end up as strays or at animal control centers or in the hands of abusive families. 

The most common statement I hear from dogs owners who have intact males or females is that “I have no intention in breeding, I just don’t believe in spaying or neutering animals”.  I can understand that the intention is not there but 100% of the litters I have rescued have been accidental.  Male dogs will do anything if they smell a female in heat (and they can from one mile away).  The sad part is that our rescue exhausts ourselves working at adoption events and we are thrilled when we adopt out ten dogs.  But then we realize that someone is at home with their female dog that just had ten puppies.  This defeats every ounce of our hard work.

We do require pets to be spay/neutered when fostering or adopting from us.  We want to adopt to families that see more than just ‘I want to own a new dog’.  We want them to support us and help with our cause.  The ONLY way for us to save ALL the dogs and cats in our community is to lower the pet population.  The ONLY way to do this is through spay/neuter.

That’s it from our perspective.  From a dog’s perspective, if they had a voice, they would let you know that they would prefer to be spay/neutered.  Males live a life of sexual frustration if not neutered (even if you breed occasionally) and this leads to behaviors such as marking, humping, aggressions, etc.  Females suffer from mammary tumors, pyometras (infected uterus) and hormonal issues due to their cycles. Ask your male friends if they would like to live sexually frustrated...it’s not fair to the dog! 

Please do me a favor and visit an animal control shelter before you run to a breeder to purchase a dog.  Also know that when you purchase a dog, breeders bring more dogs in to the world.  When you adopt a dog, you open up a kennel for another rescue dog so you save two dogs!

We are very sorry that we can’t work together but we are more involved with saving animals then just adoption.  We want to educate people as to the importance of spay/neuter.   It’s the responsible thing to do for your dog, for rescue dogs seeking a new home and for your community. 





Friday, July 22, 2011

Mostly Mutts Shelter Needs

Mostly Mutts is very grateful for the calls, emails and postings that we get for donations.  We could not do it without the many GENEROUS donations we graciously receive!  We are often asked at adoptions or on our Facebook page what we need.  What better way to get the word out than through a blog post? ONLY with the support of the community is Mostly Mutts able to continue its mission to rescue dogs, many with special medical needs that can eat through a budget in very little time.  Cash donations are always appreciated, however, there are many other ways to help. 

WHAT WE CAN USE/NEED:
  • Blankets-cut blankets to fit kennels (best if sides are sewn.)
  • Beach towels-especially thick, thirsty, water absorbent towels. 
  • Kennels-We prefer collapsible kennels but we can also use plastic travel kennels.  Donated kennels should be clean and rust free.  We prefer plastic kennels to be broken down with the hardware in a baggy.  Extra kennels are donated to animal control facilities who need them to transport animals to rescue groups.    
  • Collars-any kind but especially in the sizes of XS, S or M.  Please be sure they’re clean!
  • Leashes-any kind except retractable.  Please no choke chains or Halti collars.  Gentle Leaders are preferred.
  • Cleaning supplies-Clorox and paper towels are always needed at the shelter!
  • Treats-we love to reward our doggies but we want to be sure they are receiving nutritional treats.  A bag of Chef Michael's dog food seems to be a shelter favorite.   
  • Food-We use specific dry food but we accept any canned food, although we prefer Pedigree.  Canned chicken is given to dogs who first arrive to stimulate their appetites.  These are always accepted and appreciated.  
  • Gift cards-We'll take these over gold nuggets!  We do most of our shopping at Pet Smart and Acworth Feed Store.
  •  Food or water bowls-stainless steel bowls preferred....always nice to have extras on hand.  
  • Plastic doghouses-Clean and in good condition.  We do not accept wooden dog houses.  
  • Landscape Materials- Any rock, tile or wood chips you need to dispose of?  CALL US FIRST!! 
  • Doggie items for our silent auction-Mostly Mutts is always looking for high quality dog items for our big fundraisers...even non dog items can sell in silent auctions.  
  • Medicated shampoos or quality flea control- please contact us for specific name brands we desire.

If you want to know more about what we will accept or where you can drop it off, please send us an email to MostlyMutts@Comcast.net.

What We CANNOT Use:

  • Fencing materials-we finally have all the fencing materials we need for right now. 
  • Rawhides, pig’s feet or ears-too smelly and attracts bugs.   
  • Toys NOT made specifically for dogs-We only give toys that were designed for dogs; no children's toys....even better if they SQUEAK! 
  • Opened dog food in cans OR dry dog food-due to storage concerns, we cannot accept these. 

Please know that any items donated that we cannot use are passed on to other rescues or animal control.  Thanks for your help! We could not do it with you!

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Party with the Mutts!

Want to truly be a party animal?! We have just the idea for you!


Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue needs your help! We pride ourself  in pulling dogs from Animal Control whose time is running out and we've rescued several dogs that have required extremely expensive surgeries and treatments. Our budget has taken a serious hit and we are asking you to help us in a fun and FREE way (yes, you heard right, it won't cost you a dime!). Simply hold a dinner or cocktail party and ask your guests to donate $20-$25 to Mostly Mutts (we won't turn'em down if it's more :-). You reimburse yourself for food and drinks and donate the rest to Mostly Mutts. One of our volunteers had a Lasagna Party and raised $1,000 in one night!!! No matter where you are, you can party anywhere for a great cause! Need ideas? You can contact me here on FB or at meike.babel@gmail.com for more suggestions on this type of fundraiser or others. No matter how much you can contribute, you help Mostly Mutts save lives! Check out www.mostlymutts.org

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Mutterings From the Mutts

Wow, what a week it has been at Mostly Mutts!

First, Melody Victoria was on the news and Mostly Mutts received a nice plug as well.  You can click here to see the latest on her story and where things are with the man who cruelly injured her.

Secondly, we lost one of our sweet babies this week.  Mango, a precious little doggy who was in a wonderful new home, had given birth recently to three puppies, two of which passed away.  Last Saturday Mango slipped a disc in her upper back and was paralyzed in the rear. She went in for emergency surgery on Sunday and had been at the Cobb Surgical Center and Cobb Emergency but was still having problems.  She was in a tremendous amount of pain and had to be put to sleep last night.  We wanted to give her time to recover from her back surgery but she was actually getting worse with the paralysis so she really left us no choice.  Her mommy was with her till the very end and gave her lots of hugs and kisses.  We think we love them when they are alive and with us but we realize just how much we love them when they leave us.  She’ll be well cared for in heaven alongside of the other Mostly Mutts dogs there.

Mostly Mutts has had a lot of medical bills in the last few months;  Mango's surgery alone was $5000.00.   Each day she was in the hospital was a minimum of $300.00.  Along with her orthopedic bills, a Mastiff named Bella had a $1600.00 knee surgery.  Bama’s broken leg cost $3500.00 and after spending on Woodstock’s two surgeries, his leg had to be amputated for $700.00.  We are in desperate need to raise $10,000 and we need your help.  We are asking everyone to give whatever you can to help Mostly Mutts keep giving back to the animals that need us out there fighting for them.  You can give to a specific dog through our Chipin links of our Facebook page  or mail a donation to  2774 North Cobb Parkway, Suite 109 #189, Kennesaw, GA  30152.  We also have a Paypal account you can donate through on our website at Mostly Mutts.


Last but not least, we have two special angels who are new to the shelter who have been badly starved.  They  are playful, beautiful dogs who have enjoyed all the hugs, kisses and attention lavished on them at their stop over at Mostly Mutts.

 Meet Paula Sue and Paul Joseph!  Paula is thought to be about a year and half old and sort type of American Bulldog.  Very loving and enjoys people!  Paul Joseph is roughly four 4 years old, male and is probably some type of Beagle mix.  These little sweet hearts lived in a yard together and were starving.  A kindly neighbor took them in to animal control.  The owner signed them over to animal control and received a citation.  They have certainly been blessed to end up at Mostly Mutts!
Keep your love and support for the mutts coming; it never goes unappreciated!  And anyone is interested in helping to organize a fundraiser, please email us at MostlyMutts@comcast.net.

Monday, June 20, 2011

Update on Melody Victoria











Good news: Melody continues to improve at record speed!  Being out of the vet clinic and with her six new friends at the Mostly Mutt's director's home has allowed her to be a puppy again.  She enjoys playtime but then loves to get into her bed for a nap.  The burns to her nose, mouth, top of the head and back have almost completely healed.  She may always have scars but the hair is starting to cover those areas.  Her belly wounds are improving daily but are still rather red.  The pads on her front feet have grown back but she wears booties because the pads are thin and sensitive to most surfaces.  Her rear legs suffered the worst burns but miraculously, they too, are healing.  She still returns to Cobb Emergency every third day for bandage changes for the left rear leg.  Her feet will have permanent damage and two of her toes have fused together but she’ll be fine in the long run. 

Melody loves other dogs and enjoys companionship.  She is very loyal to those she loves and a little fearful of strangers.  Saturday, she spent the day at Petsmart adoptions and she met many people.  She did well and found a new foster home who will get her to her spay appointment on Monday and her bandage change appointments during the week.  Once she is spayed, Mostly Mutts will be accepting adoption applications for her. 

A heartfelt thanks to all of those who have asked about her and who care about her.  Her previous owner is still in jail and you will see Melody on the news again when he goes for his hearing.

Donations can be made to Cobb Emergency stray fund (they have not charged Mostly Mutts a penny).  

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Mostly Mutts is Expanding!

As you know, Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue and Adoption, Inc. was established to reduce the number of highly adoptable animals euthanized at local animal control shelters.  While rescuing and adopting animals helps, spaying and neutering dogs and cats is the only way to successfully manage the pet population, which, in turn, will drastically decrease the number of animals needing rescue.   Mostly Mutts created a sister organization calleSpay/Neuter Society of the South to promote spay/neuter programs.  Recently, Mostly Mutts has decided to roll the efforts of SOS under it's own umbrella and will absorb it's workings into its daily premise.  Through spay/neuter education, we will make a huge impact on the lives of so many more wonderful animals.  

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Melody Victoria-What a Fighter!!

Most local Cobb county residents have by now heard the horrible story of animal abuse that recently occurred in May involving a beautiful pit bull mix puppy.  Good news and better news?  She is now with Mostly Mutts and is receiving lots of love and support!
Melody while at the vet 

Melody the day she arrived at Mostly Mutts!



Melody was the victim of one of the worst cases of animal abuse.   She was placed in an oven where she suffered second degree burns to all four paws.  She has multiple burns to her head, tail, tummy, legs and nose.  Not only did she suffer physically and psychologically but she did not receive medical treatment for four days after her injuries occurred.  The doctors and techs at Cobb Emergency saved her life and even though she is not housed there any more, they see her every day for bandage changes.  They also picked up the tab from their stray fund.  (Donations can be made to Cobb Emergency Vet Clinic)
Melody is now with the director of Mostly Mutts and lives in her home along with six other dogs.  She is recovering very well and has started to play.  Even though she is out of immediate danger, she has a long recovery period ahead of her.  Once her wounds have healed, Mostly Mutts will start taking applications to find her a GREAT home.  She has some trust issues that will have to be worked with, and some puppy behaviors that will require training, but she is loving and will be your best friend.   She came to us named Melody but we've added Victoria because she was so “victorious” in overcoming her abusive owner.  He is now in jail on two felony charges…one for causing her injuries and one for not seeking medical attention.
Cases like this can be used for education purposes and maybe Melody Victoria can be the perfect teacher!

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

100 FREE Cat Neuter/Rabies Certificates

Mostly Mutts believes in spay/neuter programs and wants to pass along information about the following FREE certificates to all our readers!

SpayGeorgia is offering 100 Free Male Cat Neuter/Rabies Shot Certificates to be used during the month of July at either of Lifeline Animal Project's two locations (Avondale Estates and College Park). Certificates issued on a first come/first served basis and only one per household. Contact SpayGeorgia at spaygeorgiacertificate@msn.com or 770-662-4479 to request the free certificate. Redeemable ONLY at Lifeline Animal Project.

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Summer For You and Your Dog

It's that time of year that we all have waited for...summer! Pets are along for family vacations, outside during the day or walking with us as we go for a stroll.  But this time of year can be a dangerous time for our furry, four legged friends.  They can overheat just like people can so precautions must be taken. 

Walks:  Limit your dogs walks to either early in the morning or late at night.  Shorten the walks on extremely hot days.  Allow your dog to walk on grassy areas as cement and pavement can be hot enough to burn their pads.  If you stop to talk to someone on your walk, make sure your dog can stand on grass and not on the hot pavement.

Hikes:  Cancel your hikes on extremely hot days or at least don’t take the dog.

Car rides:  Even on a ‘warm’ day, the heat in a car can rise high enough to do serious damage to your dog.  A beautiful 85 degree day could raise the temperature in your car to over 100 degrees.  NEVER, NEVER, NEVER leave your dog in a car, even with the windows ‘cracked’ during summer days.  You are also risking your dog’s life if you leave the air conditioning running while you run into the store.  One woman learned her lesson the hard way by doing this and lost both of her dogs (one a Great Dane) because the air conditioner malfunctioned. 

Backyards:  Know the breed of your dog and how sensitive that breed is to the heat.  Chows, Huskies and other long haired breeds should be brought inside during the heat of the day.  Not only do you risk their lives, but they are MOST uncomfortable in heat.  This can affect their breathing and their overall health.  If you must leave your dog outside, make sure they have plenty of shade, air circulation and lots of FRESH water.  One suggestion is to freeze a container of water and give them one big ice cube (along with another bowl of water) so they can have something cold to lick or lay next to.  A small child’s pool filled with fresh water is also very soothing to certain dogs. 

If your dog gets overheated, hose them down.  Do not use cold water, use ‘cool’ water.  Also, put rubbing alcohol on their foot pads.  Soak paper towels or washcloths with rubbing alcohol and place them on their pads and leave them on for a while.  Get your dog to the vet immediately for fluids and other treatment.

Use common sense on hot days.  Some pets do well with the heat but many do not.  This includes small dogs too.  Be very careful and it’s best to just keep them at home inside when the weather is extreme. 

And remember that dog houses must be properly ventilated...if your dog is outside on a hot day in a dog house with no air holes for ventilation, they will over heat.  Be sure that a breeze of some sort can blow through or use other means to ensure that the dog is not sitting inside of a stifling hot dog house.  

Monday, May 16, 2011

Top 10 Reasons to Adopt an Older Dog

Miss Mona-senior dog and best friend
As any rescue operation has discovered, senior dogs are often harder to adopt than the younger, cuter, more energetic puppies but they also have  many reasons why they would make great additions to any family.  In fact, this blogger adopted a senior dog from Mostly Mutts and has loved every minute of being her "mom."  A big thanks to one of our tireless volunteers for providing us with this blog post and ten reasons why you should considering adopting a senior dog.


  1. Older dogs are usually house trained, keeping you from having to go through the difficult stages of teaching manners and mopping up after accidents.
  2. Older dogs won't go through a teething period chewing on furniture, shoes or other items.
  3. Since older dogs have mellowed out a bit, they are often more focused and able to learn quickly.  Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks?!
  4. They know what "no" means.
  5. They settle in much easier than younger dogs because they have learned from experience that they need to "go along to get along." 
  6. Senior dogs are grateful for their new home and to be free to lay in their own bed without sharing space with lots of other dogs.  They are great at giving love and being a companion as a sign of their thankfulness.
  7. Ever heard the old adage "what you see is what you get?" Unlike puppies, older dogs have grown into their shape and personality while puppies can still grow and end up quite different than what they seemed at first.
  8. Instant best friends-ready to hike, ride in the car or just sit in your lap and watch TV.
  9. They leave you time to yourself because they don't require the kind of demands on your time that pups do to be entertained, played with and constantly watched.
  10. Older dogs allow you to have a good nights sleep; they are more in tune with a schedule and most likely will not require nightly feedings, comforting or bathroom breaks.
Mostly Mutts has several senior dogs who are looking for their forever home.  Please consider them as your next pet.

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Parvo, Puppies and Godiva

Godiva-We will miss you
Godiva came to Mostly Mutts on the 21st and was immediately put on antibiotics for an upper respiratory infection.  She was  adorable, bouncy and very cute.  She played hard and was a good little puppy, thought to be about three months old.  She slowly started getting sick and was given fluids last Wednesday night and Thursday morning.  She seemed better and even a vet who was visiting the shelter examined her and thought she was ‘okay’.  Friday, she was still sick so she was taken to the vet's office for the day to be treated.  The vet diagnosed it still as URI and nausea from the medication.  She was picked up Friday evening and had diarrhea; they tested it and it came back positive for Parvo.  So back to the vet she went on Saturday but Mostly Mutts received a call on Sunday that she had passed away.  Words can’t explain how much it hurts when a dog comes to MM and never gets a chance to find a home.

Godiva's passing will not be in vain because what happened to her can happen to any dog, especially puppies.  We want to use this blog post to educate on parvo, what it is, how it's contracted and what can be done to save your pet and family from this heartbreak.

Parvo is a virus that attacks the intestinal tract of puppies causing severe diarrhea and vomiting.  It's been around since the early '80's and is devastating because it is so highly contagious.  The virus can even live in areas for up to a year!  Parvo is spread through defecation of infected dogs and things must be bleached in order to kill the virus.  Often, both animal control and rescues deal with parvo cases and many times treatment is not successful.  Although there is a vaccine for parvo, there is no cure.  If you have a puppy, they should receive a series of shots starting as early as six weeks old and is most often referred to as a distemper vaccine.  Follow up the shot with a minimum of four booster shots in three week increments. ONLY at this time is the puppy able to safely be in areas where other dogs have defecated.

Godiva came to Mostly Mutts from an animal control facility happy and healthy.  What we didn't know was that she had been exposed to parvo at that facility and the virus was in incubation.  A week later she showed signs of the disease and within two day,s regardless of the treatment she received at the vet clinic, she passed away.

Adult dogs who have been exposed to parvo can show signs of vomiting and diarrhea but if they are vaccinated their immune system can fight the virus and they will recover without treatment.  Some puppies that get parvo can recover with fluid therapy and antibiotic treatment but it can cost well over $1000.00. Some pups are euthanized when diagnosed while some make a full recovery and won't get it again.  There is no pattern but the smaller and younger the puppy is, the more likely they will pass away.

Owners whose puppies have not completed the series of vaccines should never put their puppies on the ground where other dogs have defecated.  These areas include vet clinics, dog parks or private yards where a parvo pup has been within the last year.  Most folks aren't aware that their puppies can pick up the virus just walking into a vet clinic.  Make sure you carry your puppy whenever they are in a public area.

Parvo is a devastating disease and there are many different strains of the virus.  Some strains are mild and some are certain to lead to death.  Mostly Mutts recommends keeping puppies and adult dogs updated on vaccinations to protect them against parvo and preventing your puppy from being exposed by keeping them home or safe into fully vaccinated.



Friday, April 29, 2011

Rescue Angels

This pretty much sums it up for Mostly Mutts or any pet rescue organization.  A big thanks to the rescue Noah's Ark for posting and sharing on their site.



Rescue Angels

Tail tucked between your legs, confusion in your eyes -
I know it's hard to understand that someone heard your cries.

When loneliness is all you know and pain is all you feel
And no one can be trusted and hunger's all too real...

That's the time the Lord sees you  and lets you know He's there
That's when He sends His messengers, the hearts that love and care.

Yes, rescuers are angels, you cannot see their wings,
They keep them neatly folded as they do their caring things.

The medicine to make you well, good food to make you strong,
And finally to help you learn that hugs are never wrong.

The perfect place then must be found, the home where you can live,
Secure and safe and happy with joy to get and give.

When you reach your Forever Home, your place to feel whole,
The Angels smile, and off they go to save another soul.

~Author Unknown~