Tag: rescue

The Legacy of Twister

How Adoption Can Change Your Life

Our wonderful family dog Twister passed away from cancer in the fall of 2014, just before the holidays. We were saddened by his passing but were grateful to have had him as part of our family!

This is not just a story of losing our family dog; it’s a testament of how he brought so much joy and love to each of us, and how he inspired us in many ways we didn’t see coming.

My sons, Daniel, Bryce, and I had Twister in our lives for 14 years after adopting him in June 2000 from an adoption fair at a local pet store in Franklin, Tennessee. He was a mixed breed, around 8 weeks old and the one of three siblings that barked the loudest in the playpen. Bryce picked him up and didn’t want to put him down, promising to feed him and give him fresh water each day if only we could take him home.  I couldn’t say no and felt it would be good for Bryce to learn some responsibility and have a dog to play with after school.

 

Twister in 2014

Twister in 2014

While there at the adoption fair we learned how Twister came to be put up for adoption.  He, his two siblings and mom were rescued by a fireman during the May 2000 tornados.  The mom named “Stormy” had taken her three puppies down into a drain to wait out the storm.

With Twister’s loss comes a new kind of understanding. After his passing, I realized that I had to “do something” so his life wasn’t wasn’t in vain.

Twister brought so much love and happiness during the 14 years he was with us. With this, I knew I wanted to help other dogs feel loved while waiting to find their forever family – and from that, our Twister leaves a kind of legacy inspiring others in addition to the strong legacy he leaves us who knew him.

“When I first heard of ‘Tails of the Trails’ walking and helping shelter dogs find loving homes, I knew this was something that I had to be a part of!”

Twister inspired me to volunteer with shelter dogs and  promote the adoption of shelter dogs. When I first heard of ‘Tails of the Trails’ walking and helping shelter dogs find loving homes, I knew this was something that I had to be a part of! My first event in July 2015 was so much fun. I so enjoyed taking hundreds of photos showing how happy and loved the shelter dogs were while walking along the trails with their volunteer caretakers.

The big smiles on everyone’s face spoke volumes as the volunteers shared lots of treats and lots of love while caring for their pooch.  The furry face lickers and tail waggers were so grateful for the time spent walking, big hugs and the delicious homemade yogurt and peanut butter treats shared at the end of each hike. It was amazing to see how such a simple deed eased the fear and anxiety helping the dogs feel love and encouragement that their new ‘forever family’ would soon find them.

Camp out with Twister, May 2001

Camp out with Twister, May 2001

Twister also inspired me to make some changes in my own life after his death, highlighting what’s important and that life is very short in the grand scheme of things.

He gave me a life that was worth so much more than it did previous to adopting him. It gave me a clear sense of meaning and purpose, which was to help other dogs that are less fortunate and homeless with no one to love.

“Twister gave me a clearer sense of meaning and purpose, which was to help other dogs that are less fortunate and homeless with no one to love”

Early in February 2015 my son, Bryce adopted Sophia, a black lab, pit bull mix.  She’s so loving and full of energy she can’t stop wiggling from head to paws with happiness when he brings her over.  She now gets to enjoy evening walks with the family and socializing with other dogs at the dog park.

Sophia 2015

Sophia 2015

In October 2015, I stopped by an animal shelter in Murfreesboro just to look and maybe take a dog out for a short walk.  While walking around the caged dogs, I noticed a small white puppy looking straight up at me with the most beautiful brown eyes.  Reaching into the cage, I picked her up to take her outside for fresh air and a brief walk.  She had just been spayed and didn’t feel well.  Her fur was so fluffy and soft as she snuggled up laying her face as close to mine on my shoulder.  When I looked at her she looked back with those big brown eyes as if saying don’t leave me.  And I couldn’t.

Not intending on adopting that day, I just couldn’t put her back in that cage.  So I adopted her.  During the drive home I kept staring at her wondering what was she thinking.  Was she happy?  With an occasional glance she slept in the front seat the entire trip home.  Her forever home.  Bella, a Great Pyrenees mix was eight weeks old.  Now that she was home, I couldn’t image life without her.

Bella and Chanel 2016

Bella and Chanel 2016

Three months later came Chanel.  Chanel was a hybrid mix half Newfoundland, half Bernese Mountain dog.  An elderly couple adopted her but had to give her up as their health was not the best making it impossible to keep her.  She was 3 months when I adopted her.  Today Bella and Chanel are BFFs.  They are so happy and I love them incredibly.

Later that year, my son Daniel, took in a stray pit bull.  Found on the side of the street with cropped ears and a docked tail.  Stitches made from fishing line still in both ears, this puppy had been dropped most likely after losing an illegal dog fight.  While dog fighting is a felony in the United States, it continues underground illegally.

Daniel immediately took him to the veterinarian for medicine and weekly skin treatments thereafter due to a painful and severe skin rash that had taken over his entire body leaving the skin inflamed and bare with some areas raw and bleeding.  His hair was completely gone.

Ricco 2016

Ricco 2016

After several months of treatments and tender loving care Ricco was beginning to look better.  Despite all this dog had been through he is incredibly loving and such a loyal companion.

Family holidays are very lively with all our adopted pets having the best time playing and just being happy lovable dogs.  Lot’s of playful banter, tail wagging, butt sniffs, peeing and more sniffs.  Yes, our family continues to carry out Twister’s legacy.

Fourteen years flew by too fast.  While our newest family members will never be a replacement for Twister as he is irreplaceable, but a reassertion of all that Twister stood for: an incalculable blessing to inspire future adoptions.

I can go on, and on, and on about all the wonderful experiences Twister brought into our lives. Many of the memories that each of us carry will remain in our hearts for an eternity.  And for that, I am forever grateful to that puppy who barked the loudest, was abandoned until fate brought us together in June 2000.  A day that would forever change the course of our lives.

 

 ~Melissa Miles

 

 

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One year later, adopted dog Reese has changed the lives of Nashville couple

On November 22, 2014, Sheryl Handley volunteered to walk shelter dogs at our first Tails of the Trail outreach event and later returned to Cheatham County Animal Control (CCAC) to adopt Reese, the dog she and her husband fell in love with. 

One year later, Sheryl shares how Reese has changed their lives.

I love this time of year: Spring, the season of renewal and rebirth! The woods come alive with blossoming trees, and delicate wildflowers blanket the forest floor. It is a welcome change after the chill and bleakness of winter.

Now we have even more reason to celebrate because it is the first anniversary of the adoption of our dog, Reese.

Upon reflection of a previous post, Rescue, reward, and Reese: A shelter dog adoption story, I have to say that any apprehension we may have had about taking a shelter dog into our lives turned out to be totally unfounded. We can’t even imagine life now without him! I know that my husband, Paul, shares the same sentiments. He admits to missing Reese while away on business trips, and always greets Reese at the door with a jerky treat. Too cute!

Reese is our first canine furbaby, and as any new parent can attest, every new occasion or activity is a big deal. We are still learning, honing our dog ownership skills along the way. We’ve made that desperate emergency trip to the vet all parents fear, only to be reassured that everything would be fine. I’ve since taken a canine first aid class provided by Tails of the Trail.

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On our first road trip, Reese barked at every single noise he heard in the hotel – all night long! Although this made for anything but a rejuvenating weekend getaway, it was a learning experience. Of course, Reese was merely being a dog and alerting us, his pack, to what he saw as potential danger. As it turns out, our camping trips allow a better night’s sleep for all three of us, as we make sure to set up the tent in a secluded spot away from the noise and lights of other campers passing by in the middle of the night. As with anything in life, practice makes perfect and each experience builds upon the last. It’s amazing to see what a difference a year has made in Reese’s social skills!

My husband and I have established a routine which ensures Reese is included in as many activities with us as possible, from frequent errand runs (what dog doesn’t love to ride in the car?) to our occasional getaways. We really appreciate dog-friendly businesses, stores, restaurants, and other places. These are all wonderful opportunities to practice manners and obedience. When we are out on the town, it is so rewarding to hear compliments from workers and other customers about Reese’s excellent behavior!

You should see how surprised they are to learn that he was once a stray taken in by animal control. Of course, many already know that rescued dogs usually turn out to be superb pets and grateful companions.

It warms my heart to hear people share their dog adoption stories. A fellow hiker told me that she was inspired to adopt a senior dog because that age group is the least likely to find placement outside of a shelter or rescue group. Please don’t assume that you must get a puppy or a young dog, or that you should avoid adopting dogs that have been at a shelter for a relatively long time. Reese had been housed by CCAC for nine months prior to adoption. He had been designated as a heartworm-positive, 3.5 year-old pit bull mix – all of which are often considered to drastically lower the chances of adoption.

In our case, the timing was just right – and thankfully, we had the resources to nurse Reese back to health. We are proud to tell a story which clearly demonstrates that an adult shelter dog can be a wonderful pet.

There was no potty training involved, no chewed up personal belongings – and the truth is, you can teach an old dog new tricks! We’ve got his intermediate education certification and graduation photo proudly hanging above his food bowl.

Yes, we are such proud parents of our furbaby!

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The Healing of Ellie May

Sometimes you find a dog. Sometimes a dog finds you. Join Erin on this ten year journey after she discovered the dog who would come to be known as “Ellie May” by happenstance on the side of the road in rural Tennessee.

One October Sunday, while driving out in the Tennessee country looking at the pretty fall leaves, I started to slow my car down in case the cat that was sitting on the side of the road ahead of me decided to run in front of it. But as I got closer, I saw that it was not a cat, but instead a skin-and-bones little puppy with pointy ears and a long tail.

I stopped my car on the side of the road to get a better look. She had no collar. Obviously not eaten in quite some time. She had hardly any fur, scabs all over her body and face, fleas and bugs crawling on her, and some shiny wound on her side that looked odd.

I got out of the car, walked up to her slowly and said, “Hi puppy, what are you doing here?” She looked up at me and slowly wagged her tail. I walked back to my car and opened the trunk to get a towel.

I turned around, patted my leg and said, “Come here little dog” and motioned for her to follow me. She trotted across the road and I wrapped her in the towel and picked her up. I put part of the towel underneath her and sat her in the front passenger seat. She whined for a second, started turning around in a circle (like dogs do when they’re making a bed) and laid down. Within only a minute or two she was asleep.

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She spent the night in my bathtub while I waited for Sunday to turn into Monday and I could take her to a shelter. My current lease said no dogs allowed and I wasn’t financially prepared to take care of her.

The shelter didn’t usually intake new dogs on Monday, but I said she was sick and possibly injured so they said over the phone they’d make an exception. When I got to the shelter they looked her over. Pretty quickly said they couldn’t take her because she was so sick. Monetarily they weren’t able to provide that amount of care and her mange could be contagious to the other dogs.

They said if I left her, there was only one other option. That option made me immediately tear up.

“But,” I said, “she still seems pretty happy considering she’s so sick.”

“She is pretty alert,” they admitted.

So I made the decision to take her to the vet and figure out the money and “no dogs in the house” lease situation later. Ugh.

When we got in to see the doctor, he determined she was about three or four months old, weighed eight pounds, had a pretty bad case of stress-related mange, an eye infection, fleas, and worms.

And that shiny wound on her side? Buckshot. In fact, she had quite a few pellets still imbedded in her.

He said he wanted to be honest and say that while she’s very sick there’s a chance she could pull through. But that I could also do all the right things and she still not make it. So once again I had a choice. And once again, I started to tear up.

“I want to try. I can’t not try.”

So he gave her a deworming shot, told me about the medicine for the mange I would have to give her, the shampoo she would need to use, and the drops for her eye infections. We optimistically scheduled a surgery for down the road for her to get spayed along with a few in between check ups.

Now…what to do about the lease situation…

“So…I found a puppy…” I told my landlord. Turns out he had three rescue dogs of his own and had no problem with me keeping her as long as I took care of the place.

So I took her home to give her her first mange-be-gone bath. Because she was so skinny and shivering so badly afterward, I wrapped her in a towel and held her like you’d hold a tiny baby. It didn’t take long before she fell asleep on my chest.

It was around that time I started to think of names for her. I wanted to call her something different or give her a full proper name like they do in dog shows. The number eleven popped into my mind and I thought, “Well, Eleven could be part of her name but she would need a nickname.” At that moment The Beverly Hillbillies came on TV and since I’d found her out in the country, the “little puppy that could” became Ellie Mae.

The next day I had to return to work so my friend let me borrow her cat crate for Ellie to stay in while I was gone. I was trying to contain the fleas to one area (if she had any) so the crate stayed in the kitchen.

For the first few days, without fail, I would let Ellie out of the crate and a buckshot pellet or two would be left inside. I’m still not sure if she was pulling them out herself or they were working their way to the surface.

It took a solid two months for her to get the “mostly clear” from the vet, even though she still had hardly any hair. There was a chance the mange could come back if she got really stressed.

But boy was this tired little dog starting to get some energy. It seemed like she was making up for lost time. So after another month or two of her healing I started to take her to what I told her was “puppy class.”

Turns out that not only was this dog a fighter, but I discovered she was pretty smart too. (I mean I’m her mom so of course I’m going to say that, but I promise I’m not lying…)

She picked up things really quickly and the trainer called her “the Ambassador” because she could get any dog to play with her. Even the one dog who didn’t like any dogs, and had been deemed dog aggressive was comfortable around Ellie.

At home she figured out how to open my bathroom door by pulling on my robe that hung on the back of it, how to lift the toilet seat, get out of a wire crate without opening the door, and conversely unlock the door to get into the crawl space. (The latter is not my favorite trick. I’ve had to crawl in after her a few times.)

I learned that she’s great with kids, loves dogs, cats, horses, pigs, cows, bus rides, car rides, walks, hikes, and loves running on the treadmill way more than I do. Sometimes I think about how much she (and I) would have missed out on had she not gotten the chance to get better. But then after I think that I do my best to just enjoy where she’s at now.

You’d never be able to tell by looking at her, but as of this writing she’s almost ten years old and has been such a great joy in my life.

In my work, being there with people through transitions, I believe change and healing is possible. And I think it’s the same for dogs. They just need a chance and people to support them. I plan to continue giving more dogs a chance and I hope Ellie may have inspired you to do so as well. I mean, just look at that face…

Erin Pauling, a transplant from Chicago, is a life coach based in Nashville and is Secretary on the Tails of the Trail board of directors. She loves asking questions, trying new things, singing like a cartoon chipmunk, and whispering to dogs.

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LOVE: A Four Legged Word That Gives Unconditionally, For A Lifetime

“The only creatures that have evolved enough to convey pure love are dogs and infants”
— Johnny Depp

Love: a force, a vibration, a sentiment. Love is the subject of countless melodies, poems, art pieces, films etc. etc. It is an inexplicable emotion which cannot be quite conceptualized, but without it concepts would not exist. The idea of experiencing love seems all to elusive in a world where it is taught that vulnerability is a weakness and should be averted at all cost; to protect our hearts at the expense of separating ourselves from just about everyone and everything for fear of heartbreaks and suffering as a result.

Introducing: the dog.

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Dogs are singular creatures, like many animals live in the present moment, they differ from humans in their perception of life; they maintain a level of innocence humans can only experience during the formative years of their lives. Eckhart Tolle, a renown author and speaker explains that dogs “have a native readiness to celebrate life and to live in the moment” a quality a bit more rare in humans since there is a tendency to rationalize everything before fully accepting it. Tolle goes on to say that: “With people, the mind is always in the way. There is too much going on a mental, emotional level. With a dog, there is just an outflow of love.”

Dogs can teach us a lot about love, genuine and unconditional love and loyalty, such as it has been the case of four legged legends featured in Hollywood films such as Rin-Tin-Tin, Lassie, Benji et al.

A dog’s ability to forgive–even the cruelest of abuses–is a characteristic we as humans would do well to emulate. Several times I have seen abused dogs who were afraid of humans, be transformed and revert to their natural state; a state where something so spontaneous, pure and unrestrained is to them the only way to live.

The truth is that a dog will never tell you how rough you look upon waking up in the morning, a dog will never tell you that you no longer suit their needs, need a better job or halitosis is an issue. A dog will never tell a you about the old ’84 El Camino that needs to be thrown into the bottom of the deepest ocean. They do not care about those frivolities, they care about you and your relationship…even when the on sale kibble you got from a convenient store sucks. They are able to perceive feelings, intentions, and somehow know that you’re doing your best. A dog can be the medium through which we can reconnect with that part of ourselves that is in a harmonious and balanced relationship with nature; that part that dances and celebrates life, the universe, love permanently. Through observing and participating with a dog and their relationship with nature, we can learn a great deal what is to experience love to its fullest capacity; a dog can ultimately coax someone suffering from depression and anxiety to begin the path to restoration and equanimity.

A dog never stops seeing potential in us, he or she will lead the way because it is in their nature to take charge of the pack, until we learn to be in sync with nature and are fit to assume our role. All from a place of ultimate, unbounded and unconditional love.

When everything around you has fallen to pieces and the human race has left you down, raise a dog, you will learn love again.

What is the true nature of reality? Love.

Who will show us love? Start with a dog.

This article was originally published on Field of Potential. Read the original article here.

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Rockie – Part Two – keeping a dog engaged during recovery

As reported in my earlier blog in January 2016, Rockie is a dog that I first encountered during a Tails of the Trails hike at Williamson County Animal Center. He is a Feist mix that loves walking. The only drawback is that he lifts his rear, right leg off and on during those walks. After a consult at Nashville Vet Specialists (NVS), Rockie underwent surgery to repair a luxating patella (a kneecap that would move in and out of place thus causing the limp to come and go). We are now six weeks into his eight week rehabilitation period and I’m happy to report first and foremost that Rockie is doing AMAZING!

Let me paint the picture of his rehabilitation period: he has been restricted in his movements, not allowed to run, jump, climb stairs, play with other dogs, jump on furniture or any other movements that would deter his healing process.

For the first two weeks, he had to wear an E-collar (also known as an Elizabethan collar) around his neck so he didn’t lick or bite his surgery incision. Though somewhat cumbersome, he did great with the E-collar and more than tolerated it. After a follow-up exam at NVS, his surgical staples were removed because the incision had healed so well and he was no longer required to wear the E-collar—freedom! To keep him confined and away from the other dogs in my house, Rockie got a “man cave” of his own in my bedroom, a portion of the room sectioned off by a crate and plywood walls. He has been allowed to be out of his man cave during bathroom breaks and feeding only.

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My initial concern was that he would be going stir crazy being confined so much. He’s a young, energetic, happy dog who loves people. Yet, he spends most of his days in this confined area with only a 12 foot space to move around. I engage his mind with food puzzles, food-stuffed toys and the like. It’s said that if you engage a dog’s brain in these types of behaviors, you wear the dog out mentally and that can be four times more exhausting than physical activity. Even with that, I was still concerned his desire for activity would far outreach his imposed restrictions.

One of the amazing aspects of Rockie is his ability to stay in the confined area without being hyper, destructive, or other such behaviors. He also doesn’t complain when he has to go back into his area after bathroom and feeding breaks. When he is out, he is the snuggliest, happiest, most affectionate dog you can imagine. He’s my kind of dog. He loves it when I sit on the floor with him. He snuggles in my lap and laps up all the love and petting I give him. He allows me to gently rub his healed incision to stimulate blood flow to the area. In addition, he loves to chew on bones which has the benefit of releasing his energy while keeping him off of his feet.

My fears of an emotionally and physically pent-up dog who needs sedation have not come to fruition. He’s been the easiest foster I’ve ever had and has endured this time with happiness, contentment, and willingness to accept all the restrictions necessary. I’ve learned a lot from his example; to not grumble so much when I go through a tough situation. For that he’s a true champion.

He continues to be a delight and brings such a smile to my face. I look forward to two weeks from now when x-rays show him healed and ready for action!

Stay tuned to this blog for updates on Rockie’s next consult with NVS which will determine if the activity restrictions can be lifted and what the future holds for him.

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Home for the holidays! Volunteer love helps Baxter find a forever family

Bernice Karnett, a physician and volunteer staff member with Tails of the Trail, shares her recent post-hike experience with Baxter (a.k.a. Joey), a dog hidden in the back corners…

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On December 12, 2015, Tails of the Trail hosted a shelter dog hike at Metro Nashville Animal Care and Control (MACC). After helping to bring out several dogs to partner up with their companion hikers from Belmont University, I went to the back room and saw this sad boy in his pen. I knew I just had to take him outside. It was a beautiful sunny day and when I showed him to Lisa Thomas, co-founder of TOTT, I told her he had no name on his kennel. It’s probable he was a recent street pickup. We decided to call him “Joey.” He was sweet, affectionate and oh-so docile. He had a lot of scrapes, especially on his face, no doubt from being a stray and was bone thin, but still he wagged his tail in friendship, all the while shivering in fear.

That day after I left the shelter I couldn’t stop thinking about Joey. I knew then that I would return the following weekend to MACC and volunteer to walk the pups; I just had to see him again.

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Upon my arrival I made a bee line to his cage. My heart melted as soon as I saw him. Not only was he wagging his tail in excitement–I think he remembered me–but his whole body was in full action.  This time the tag on his kennel had a name, Baxter.

So out Baxter and I went into the play yard where we spent a wonderful time cuddling and enjoying the fresh air. I couldn’t help but bring him a special treat, a piece of baked chicken. After all, he needed a little meat on his skin and bones. My initial thoughts were that he would quickly devour the meal and my hand, but I was so wrong. He very slowly and gently ate each morsel with such delight!

Now I confirmed in my heart that I had to help sweet Baxter any way possible. I was on a mission to save this wonderful pup!

As luck would have it, when I entered the waiting room of MACC, there were several people inside and I started talking to and introducing them to Baxter.  I described this wonderful sweet boy and everyone became excited to meet him. In fact, one couple had specifically come to MACC to look for a cat but they ultimately decided to spend some time with Baxter, my sweet dog, in the socializing room.

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I spent the rest of the weekend thinking about Baxter. Was he lonely and waiting for my return visit?  Was it possible that someone would fall in love with him just as I had done?  I could only hope so.

Upon returning to work on Monday I immediately logged onto the MACC website to check the status of adoptable dogs. To my amazement, there was no Baxter listed. As I started to cry, my nurse walked into the room. I told her the story of Baxter, while tears ran down my face. They were tears of JOY!  Baxter had found a forever home just in time to celebrate the holidays and I was forever grateful. For me and Baxter, this was truly the best Christmas present ever!

I believe everyone should spend their free time loving an orphaned pup. And who knows what miracles may happen. I feel like my few hours with Baxter helped calm him, helped him feel loved, and hopefully made him a better fit for his forever family!

‘tis the Season!

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Why I Love Being a Foster Brother by Sirius Black Davis

Sirius Black is a German Shepherd, and in this story he sits down with foster mom Jennifer Davis to talk of his experiences being a foster brother

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Hi people! My name’s Sirius and I’m the best foster brother ever, at least, that’s what my mom says. She’s a foster mom for Southeast German Shepherd Rescue. We just started fostering this year, after mom bought me a house with lots and lots of land to run and play on. You see, I just love to play with other dogs and mom thought fostering would be a great way for me to have a playmate without committing to having another dog forever. I mean, what if we got another dog and I didn’t like him? And then we’d be stuck with him forever!

I think fostering is a great thing to do! I was fostered by a very nice lady before my mom adopted me. She taught me lots of stuff so when I met my real mom for the first time, she was super impressed with me!  Mom said that by fostering other dogs we could help them become more adoptable so they could find moms and dads of their own. My mom loves me so much and I really want to help other dogs find that kind of love too!

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My first foster sister was named Ginny. I really loved her! We got to play in the yard every morning and every night. Ginny didn’t know a lot of stuff when she came to live with us, so mom said I had to help teach her how to be a good dog so she could find a family of her own.  I taught her how to sit and not to chase the cats and how to walk nice on the leash. And guess what? She got adopted by an awesome family that adores her almost as much as my mom adores me.

We did have to make some changes to our routine for Ginny. I don’t think she got fed very much before she came to live with us, so she would gobble all of her food down and then come over and eat mine. I’m such a nice guy, I would just back away and let her have my food too, but mom said that I shouldn’t let her take advantage of me (whatever that means). So now I get to eat my meals in the guest bedroom with the door closed. Mom says I’m a slow eater, but really I just like to savor my food and chew it thoroughly, that’s very important you know!

I was a little bit sad after Ginny left, but about a month later JP came to live with us. He was only 10 months old and full of energy. Boy, did I have a lot of work to do with him! But we had lots of fun running around and chasing each other in the yard. And after only a month, he got adopted too! Now I have a new brother named Remus. He is only 7 months old, but mom says he reminds her of me and that’s a big compliment because I’m the best dog ever! Mom says we might foster-fail and keep him forever. I really hope so, because I love him a lot. Mom says he loves me too, even more than he loves her because whenever she calls his name he runs to me instead of her.

I think that more people (and dogs) should consider being foster families. It is hard to say goodbye to your foster brothers and sisters, but there are always new fosters to meet!

Sometimes it’s hard having to share my mom’s attention with other dogs. She’s only one person so she can’t love on all of us at the same time and sometimes she needs to spend extra time with my foster siblings to work on training or take them to the vet. But I feel so sad for all the dogs that have to live in shelters without moms and dads of their own. So I don’t mind sharing my mom with other dogs for a little while until they find families of their own.

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Mason and Kaye: One Especially Great Match

I recently moved to Nashville in August after having lived most of my life in Northern Illinois. I was tired of the midwest and needed a change.

Growing up, I always loved Kentucky and Tennessee, so when it came time to pick a new place to live I was easily drawn back to the area. I visited Nashville in the spring and decided to move here whether I had a job or not. It ended up being the not….

After about three weeks of living here and knowing very few people and not working, I realized I needed a way to meet new people. I was at REI, when a very friendly employee and I got to talking. She suggested I join Nashville Hiking Meetup, as that’s how she met a lot of people when she first moved here. So I went home created a profile and began looking at events. It only took me a couple minutes to stumble upon the Tails of the Trails events and eagerly signed up for the next open event. That event just so happened to be a walk with Middle Tennessee Boxer Rescue (MTBR).

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I went to that event and fell in love. I realized how much I missed being around dogs and how much they added to my life. After the event I asked Nicole, one of MTBR’s volunteers if they needed any extra help and she said YES! I began walking with the MTBR volunteers the next day and continued walking with them several times a week.

When I moved to Nashville, I had considered bringing my family dog Emma, but ultimately decided against it for many reasons. I didn’t know quite what my apartment was going to be like, how much time I would have for her, she’s an older dog used to her routine, and my parents are more attached than they care to admit. I didn’t think I would be adopting a dog anytime soon but that changed as soon as I met Mason.

Mason was this incredibly handsome boxer mix at MTBR who very quickly stole my heart. I avoided walking him for about the first week or so because I just had a feeling the minute I walked him I was going to get attached, and boy was I right about that.

The first time I walked him he was so well mannered and just such a sweet, easy-going boy that you can’t help but loving him. I remember telling my boyfriend about him, and his response was, “well if you love him so much then why don’t you adopt him?”

At first I told myself, “no you can’t adopt a dog that big, your apartment won’t allow it, plus it’s a small space it might not be fair to him.” This went on for a couple weeks where I just kept telling myself no I couldn’t do it. But finally I couldn’t say no anymore. I would fall asleep imagining bringing him home and taking him on all sorts of adventures. It finally got to a point where I knew I just needed to try to adopt him.

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I talked to the staff at my apartment first and made sure his weight wasn’t going to be an issue. They confirmed there are only breed restrictions not weight restrictions, so I was a go there. Then I filled out the application and patiently awaited my decision. After about a week I got a very congratulatory phone call saying I’d been approved and I could pick Mason up that weekend. I was beyond thrilled. When I went to pick Mason up that Saturday, everyone at the rescue was so happy for the both of us that I knew I had made the right decision.

I’ve only had Mason for a couple of weeks but he’s been everything I’ve imagined and more. After waiting for a home at MTBR for about 8 months, I think he is just as appreciative as I am.

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Adopting Mason has added so much joy to my life. He makes me smile every day and he’s just a happy, loving, easygoing boy to have around. Without Tails of the Trail and MTBR I never would have met him and he might still be waiting for his forever home. I feel very lucky to have found both of these organizations and one especially great dog.

Kaye Kleine is a recent transplant to Nashville and is an event leader for Tails of the Trail.

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No adoption fees for over a dozen dogs

Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog courtesy of Tails of the Trail™ and our Shelter/Rescue Partners

Tails of the Trail™ has joined forces with our animal shelter partners to sponsor the adoption fees for over a dozen dogs in celebration of October’s National “Adopt a Shelter Dog” Month. 

Each dog is currently available for adoption and we hope you will pay it forward so another deserving furry one can be matched with its forever family. In addition to dog sponsorship fees we have also funded monies toward veterinary care for one beautiful boxer at Middle Tennessee Boxer Rescue and provided a crate of special request items for Nashville Humane Association.

Learn about each special pup who has graciously agreed to have their photos displayed:

Bonaparte’s Retreat

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Juno: Golden Retriever/Shepherd mix, spayed female, about 4 years old, 50 pounds, up-to-date on all vaccinations

ADOPTED!

Curious, energetic, determined and super smart: That’s JUNO! She knows many commands and tricks—Sit, Down, Twirl, Paw, Crawl, Stay. And her Sit & Stay is truly awesome. An outdoors-y girl, she would make a great hiking companion and she walks beautifully on a leash. A water dog, too, Juno enjoys a cool swimming hole during the hot summer months. Even though she likes playing with most dogs, she seems just as content being an only dog so she can have someone to call her very own. She’s either busy as a bee, studying every corner of her environment or she’s a happy napper. And with a gentle and loving massage, she snuggles up to her people and works overtime giving kisses. Because she’s a smart and determined dog, Juno needs a patient, just-as-smart leader to continue her training. She can be a resource-guarder and at times hesitant meeting new people—but she’s also one of the most-eager-to-learn dogs we’ve ever met. With the proper training and guidance, you’ll find that Juno really is just about the perfect dog!

 

Cheatham County Animal Control

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Dalton: 2 years old, neutered male

ADOPTED!

I’m a sweet boy who would love a family to hang out with. I’m active and playful with a wonderful cuddle side. I’m heartworm negative. I do have a personality that prefers to be an only dog so plan to have lots of play time with me so I can wear you out! Come see me at Cheatham County Animal Control!

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Maxine: 5 years old, spayed female

ADOPTED!

I am a mellow girl and very shy as I have lived my whole life as a free-roamer and without a forever family to take care of me. I love people, dogs and cats. I’m heartworm negative. Unfortunately I was in early pregnancy when I was spayed so it was a bit hard on me. Just give me some special love and time and I will be a wonderful companion, confidante and adventure twin. Visit me at Cheatham County Animal Control!

 

Metropolitan Nashville Animal Care and Control

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Carly: 6 years old, female, pit bull terrier mix breed

ADOPTED!

Hi, I’m Carly. I love going on walks and running around outside in the yard. I have an excitable personality for a dog my age. I get along with people so well and just love being around them. I need someone to fall in love with me and take me to a wonderful forever home. Can you pass up my infectious smiling face? Come visit Carly at Metro Animal Care & Control, Nashville.

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Domino: 10 years old, male, mixed breed senior

ADOPTED!

Domino loves to run around and play and acts more like a 5 year old. He has a very sweet personality and is an instant favorite with our volunteers. He loves to get treats and snuggle. Who can pass up such a wonderful addition to your family? Domino is available for adoption at Metro Animal Care & Control, Nashville.

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Millie: 8 years old, female, mixed breed senior

ADOPTED!

Millie is as sweet as can be. Everyone at the shelter instantly fell in love with her laid back personality. She likes to go out for walks and then come back inside for cuddles with the volunteers. She would love to be part of a laid back less active family. You will not find a more lovable dog than Millie. Millie is currently available at Metro Animal Care & Control, Nashville.

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Plucky: 6 years old, male Labrador mix

ADOPTED!

Plucky is great dog because he has all the personality of a lab but in a smaller package. He definitely does not act his age and is always ready for a good time. He can also be a super snuggle companion. He is the perfect addition to any family! Plucky is available for adoption at Metro Animal Care & Control, Nashville.

 

Middle Tennessee Boxer Rescue

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Adele: 3 or 4 year old, female Boxer

ADOPTED!

Adele has just arrived and is currently getting a full checkup. She has a case of cherry eyes that will require medical treatment. Tails of the Trail is pleased to donate monies towards her veterinarian care. We hear she is a very happy nub wagger through it all and we can’t wait to meet her on an upcoming Tails of the Trail hike. Adele will become available for adoption at Middle Tennessee Boxer Rescue in Brentwood, TN.

 

Nashville Humane Association

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Tails of the Trail used its charitable monies toward the purchase of much needed items on this shelter’s wish list including multiple rolls of paper towels, peanut butter, bleach and dish detergent.

 

 

 

Pet Placement Center, Chattanooga, TN

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Navient:

ADOPTED!

Navient along with his sister Sallie Mae and mother, Meryl were rescued from a home in Marion County March, 2015. They were all ironically named after financial institutions since one of our employees had just finished paying off her student loans!  Navient was born January 1, 2015 and is an American Bulldog and Jack Russell mix. He will grow to be large dog (currently weighs 57 pounds) and is already bigger than his mom, the Jack Russell mix. Navient has a lot of love to give but he’s a very large puppy so he gives it a little too exuberantly. He needs a home with the time and patience to teach him large dog manners. He is an excellent running companion and enjoys long walks. He loves all people and kids and gets along with other dogs that can tolerate his level of energy. He gets especially excited when you give him dog treats or peanut butter!

The paid sponsorship fee includes neuter, a free veterinary exam within 2 weeks of adoption at local participating vets, up to date vaccinations, test for heartworms & heartworm preventative medication, de-wormer, flea preventative & microchip. Please visit Pet Placement Center at 5975 Dayton Blvd., Chattanooga, TN 37415 to meet Navient. Questions can be answered by emailing manager@thalppc.com or calling 423-877-0738. Adoption Applications are on our website www.petplacementcenter.com

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Princess Peach:

ADOPTED!

Princess Peach is all that her name implies. This young, brown eyed shepherd mix beauty was born in October 2014 and is playful, charming, and athletic. In fact, because of her gymnastic capabilities, she will require at least a 6 foot fence that encloses her home ground surroundings. A family surrendered her to us after attempting to find her rightful owner. She had no identification tags but was healthy so we assume she belonged to someone who fed and treated her well. She is still young and has good energy that will require the new parent (or parents) to commit to frequent walks or sport-like exercise.

This is a very happy dog with a wonderful spirit. Princess Peach warms up to people quickly and treats everyone like family. She plays well with other dogs and until recently spent her days playing with Sampson, a boxer who was adopted. It is unknown whether she plays well with cats and small children but she is so good-natured, that surely she can be socialized with most every living thing.  She deserves the love and attention of those who are seeking a larger dog with an ideal “best friend” personality.

The paid sponsorship includes a free veterinary exam within 2 weeks of adoption at local participating vets, up to date vaccinations, test for heartworms & heartworm preventative medication, de-wormer, flea preventative, microchip, & spay or neuter. Please visit Princess Peach at Pet Placement Center located at 5975 Dayton Blvd., Chattanooga, TN 37415 Wednesday through Sunday, noon until 5 PM. You can also get more information by emailing manager@thalppc.com or calling 423-877-0738. Our adoption application is available on our website at http://www.petplacementcenter.com/

 

Williamson County Animal Center

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Burt: 6 year old male, 64 pound Pit Bull Terrier

ADOPTED!

Burt is naturally playful, curious and trusting. He is a strong boy who enjoys long, daily walks. He also looks forward to outings in the shelter yard where he can run and play. Burt is a friendly, good-natured dog who has quickly become a favorite among the volunteers. Burt was the dog selected to visit the after school program for 1-5 graders. He was very friendly with the children. Burt loves to be petted and gives hugs. Burt was found as a bone thin stray who is still in need of treats to regain his true body mass. He is currently being treated for heartworm positive which will end in min November. Burt is located at Williamson Animal Center. You can learn more about him by emailing wcacangels@yahoo.com.

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Page: 1 year old, spayed, 48 pound Mountain Cur mix

ADOPTED!

Page is a fun-loving and happy dog. She loves to rub up against you and sit in your lap. She gives hugs and kisses. Her brindle coat is just beautiful! Page is such a friendly young dog who wants to please. She enjoys being close by your side for daily walks and loves the play yard where she bounds about in total joy. Page loves toys. She is a very sweet dog who enjoys cuddle time. She will be a best family companion. Page is currently located at Williamson County Animal Center. Learn more about her by emailing wcacangels@yahoo.com.

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Sandy: 1 year old, spayed, about 58 pound Pit Bull Terrier mix

ADOPTED!

Sandy is every dog’s playmate and loves chasing the ball. She is a goof ball, fun loving, and happy-all-the-time kind of dog looking for someone who loves to laugh and play around. Must have a great sense of humor and some time to spend. She’s always on a mission to please you!

Sandy is an absolute delight! She will make an enthusiastic walking companion and loves to run in the shelter yard. Sandy especially enjoys playing with toys. And she truly enjoys being around people and is always ready to be petted. This great young dog will be such a fun and loyal companion.

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Smokey: 2 years old, male, 57 pound American Pitbull Terrier

ADOPTED!

Smokey is a very special dog having experienced gunshot injuries to his face/neck. He was recently featured on local Nashville news and is one of many reasons to respect our state of Tennessee’s Animal Abuse Registry. He is stitched and healing nicely today. Due to this sensitivity Smokey is best walked in a harness versus neck collar.

If you are looking for a best friend, come meet Smokey! He will be by your side for daily walks and enjoys playtime in the shelter yard. Most of all Smokey deserves a forever home that will treasure his fun-loving spirit and pamper him with many years of deserving companionship. The volunteers at WCAC love Smokey. He is located at Williamson County Animal Center. You can learn more about him by emailing wcacangels@yahoo.com.

 

To learn more about Tails of the Trail™ visit our website at https://tailsofthetrail.org.

 

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Why I Foster Dogs (and maybe you should too)

Growing up with the joys of a Labrador Retriever/Great Dane mix, I knew I’d have a dog in my life as an adult. I just didn’t realize how many!

In 2007, I moved out of a no-pets-allowed home into my current home and adopted my baby, an Australian Shepherd. He became my world. He taught me true, unconditional love. He was my companion on journeys that would have otherwise been solo. He was my snuggle bug when I watched TV. He was a constant source of trust and hope. To this day, I’m grateful I moved when I did or I would have missed out on this incredible love in my life.

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Having such a great dog encouraged me to give rescue dogs a temporary home until their permanent homes opened up. I began fostering in my home in 2009. These foster dogs crossed the spectrum from a 25 pound Lhasa Apso mix who was separated from the only life he knew, to an American Staffordshire Terrier who spent 6 weeks confined to a crate to allow a broken leg to heal, to a pregnant hound momma who gave birth to six beautiful puppies.

People consistently ask me, “How can you give the fosters up? I’d get so attached.”

I tell people several reasons. First, because I do this, lives are saved. Space in shelters is freed up. There’s a home for each of these fosters. Like me, they just need more time to find them.

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Jenny, a 9-year-old Shepherd mix
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Second, I can help with making the dogs more adoptable and better able to stay in a home. Some dogs come without knowledge of living in a home—the scary noises a dishwasher makes, proper places to do their “business,” how to live with other dogs in the house, etc. Third, and most important, I’d miss out on having them in my life. I’d miss out on their uniqueness, their fun way of doing things, their blossoming into a loving family pet. I fostered Jenny, a 9 year old Shepherd mix, who spent her life tied up in the backyard. She never knew life with toys. She watched the other dogs in the house play and didn’t interact. Eventually, she learned. Eventually, she developed a love for one particular toy—and I got to see it all! I witnessed her blossoming and enjoying life filled with toys, bones and the like. If I didn’t foster, I would have missed out on that and many more experiences. I’d also miss out on the extended family I’ve developed through fellow foster parents and adopted families. My social circle has grown from these people and they are a great part of my life. I get Christmas cards, Facebook updates, and pictures texted to me from the adopted families! I get to hear stories about their fun times. Think of everything I would be missing!

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Loverboy, Danielle, and Laney
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I have raised my home, for a year at a time, four black Labrador Retriever puppies for Southeastern Guide Dogs. This organization trains service dogs for visually impaired people and veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  Again, when people learn this about me, they ask, “I’d get so attached. How can you give them up?” As in rescue dogs, I gain so many benefits. I get to have the fun liveliness of a puppy in my life. I receive the benefits of seeing a puppy grow from a gangly, goofy puppy into a well-rounded, mature dog that knows service dog-specific tasks that will help a disabled person. Most importantly, I know this is making a difference in people’s lives. I’ve seen what a difference my dog makes in my life. I am a different person today for the love I’ve given to and received from him. Now I can help people with disabilities have a more well-rounded life. They feel freedom to venture out of their homes more. They get more engaged in life because of the support they receive from these service dogs. They are different people for having known these dogs.

And the bottom line is I do get attached. But I also know that my home can only support so many dogs. And I know if I go through that one moment in time when I have to say goodbye, then I can do more to save dogs and make people’s lives better.

Danielle Robinson is a seasoned event leader for Tails of the Trail and recently spent four months dog training at Best Friends Animal Society in Utah. She has fostered and trained 18 dogs over the years.

 

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