Update on Soldier

Hello again!

I have some not so good news for dear Soldier. He was groomed today and checked over again by the vet and he is not gaining weight. The vet shaved him because his hair was so matted and there are lumps all over his body. At this point it is unknown if they are cancerous or not. We were also recommended a different brand of senior dog food that would encourage him to eat more, so we are going to try that and see how it goes.

The poor thing must have been a beautiful dog in his day. I will send some pictures in a few days of him now that he is shaved. That way he doesn't have the freshly shaven look to him. hehe.

Thank you so much for your sponsorship! It has allowed Soldier to live the rest of his life in peace and comfort.

Thank you again for everything!

Amanda Johnson
Rural Iowa Animal Rescue

Old Soldier

When I saw this sweet old dog with the sad eyes today on Petfinder, I just knew we had to help him. I called to get more information and we are sending a donation to sponsor him for his ongoing care. I hope to have updated photos soon. Thanks to this small organization for caring about an old dog that was definitely down on his luck.

Soldier
English Setter
Size: Medium
Age: Senior
Sex: Male
ID: 1001

Notes:
Soldier lived outside with a man that could not keep him. The Rural Iowa Animal Rescue took Soldier in and he is now living in a volunteer home. Soldier has always been an outside dog and is currently living outside in a heated barn. He is a 15 year old English Setter that could use a haircut! Soldier only has a few teeth left and is mostly deaf. He was used for breeding, and due to his age it is not safe to neuter him now. Soldier is very sweet and does excellent with other cats, dogs, and kids.

Soldier will need a home that can keep him in a heated shed or barn and will be able to provide him the proper care for a dog his age. Soldier is in need of sponsers to help pay for his grooming bill as well as for his special senior dog food. He is also on joint supplements. Soldier's adoption fee is $55. Please email for more information or an application!
•
This pet is up to date with routine shots.
Rural Iowa Animal Rescue
Rowley, IA
319-961-4465
ruraliowaanimalrescue@gmail.com

Merry Christmas in your new home, Sno Ball!

A very happy ending for Sno Ball

I just received this great news; I'll try to get copies of the photos:

Just to let you know that Sno Ball went to her new and awesome home in Duluth yesterday. Her new Mom has a huge heart for rescue and Sno will have the best there is to offer. Already have photos of her in her new home with her roomie who is going blind and has some deformed limbs.

Thanks for sending her photo along. Another happy ending.

Anne

Fingers Crossed!

From: anne
Sent: Tuesday, December 02, 2008 3:41 PM
To: Luke, Denise (West)
Subject: Sno Ball

Thanks for your concern. A woman expressed an interest in giving this sweet cat a home. Lets hope it works out.

Anne

Sno Ball

Of course I am always sad to see a post like this for a senior animal on Petfinder. I hope I can help find a new situation; I suggested Home for Life.

Sno Ball*Courtesy
Domestic Long Hair-white

Size: Medium
Age: Senior
Sex: Female
ID:


Notes:
**********************Courtesy Posting**************************


Sno Ball is a senior cat who is in a rescue that is closing. She was born blind and needs a special home. She is accustomed to cats and dogs. She does have a difficult time staying oriented when picked up. Needs a warm spot in a home where it will not matter if she misses the litter pan, as this does happen. Perhaps a more restricted area would be helpful. A beauty of a girl, she will also benefit from gentle brushing to keep her gorgeous white coat free from matting. A little metamucil on her food will help with furballs as well.

Sno Ball is currently fostered in Pepin, WI. Please contact Kandi at 715-442-5301


Lost Found and Fostered
Siren, WI
No phone calls please
lfafrescue@centurytel.net

RAGOM receives 2008 Kodiak Award

Retrieve a Golden of Minnesota (RAGOM) Receives Award

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota – October 27, 2008

Friends of Flicka is pleased to announce that Retrieve a Golden of Minnesota (RAGOM) is the recipient of the 2008 Kodiak Award. This $5000 award is presented annually to a leading animal rescue organization or individual for their exceptional work in charitable animal rescue.

Friends of Flicka is particularly impressed and moved by RAGOM’s commitment to rescuing and re-homing senior Golden Retrievers and has requested that this award be used specifically for RAGOM’s senior Goldens. “RAGOM clearly lives and works its mission statement; Provide a high quality of life for Golden Retrievers who can no longer remain in their current environments.” Friends of Flicka appreciates RAGOM’s prompt response when they are asked to help a dog that is in danger of shelter euthanasia, often because of its age. Learn more about RAGOM at www.ragom.org.

Friends of Flicka is a 501(C)(3) tax exempt charitable organization created in memory of a beloved golden retriever for the purpose of providing funds to other qualified exempt organizations and individuals engaged in the rescue, adoption and care of animals that have been abandoned, lost, or abused. One hundred percent of Friends of Flicka funds are donated to needy animals; fifty percent are directed to Golden causes. All contributions made to Friends of Flicka are fully tax deductible. Learn more about Friends of Flicka at www.flickasfriends.org.

The Kodiak award is appropriately named for Flicka's best friend, her brother Kodiak. It is awarded annually to the volunteer or organization whose efforts on behalf of abused or abandoned animals are so extraordinary that the Board of Friends of Flicka believes special recognition is deserved. “We don't expect this will ever be an easy decision - there are so many people making daily sacrifices to help animals that have been mistreated. But if, in addition to the other grants we make each year, we can provide special support and recognition to just one, perhaps it will give hope and inspiration to others.” Kodiak was a senior dog when he passed away this summer and it is in his memory that other dogs will be helped.

Bruce has a new home

Bruce has a very special place in my heart since I made RAGOM aware of him just in time for him to be saved from being euthanized at the pound. I have been checking on him on RAGOM's website and today I found out that he was adopted over the weekend! Congratulations, Bruce! You are one lucky fella and I'm sure your new family feels lucky to have you.

Update on Bruce

Bruce
Yellow Labrador Retriever

Size: Large
Age: Senior
Sex: Male


Notes:
SUMMER ADOPTION DAYS SPECIAL!!
+Adoption Fee Lowered!

Bruce is a little bit older than the other dogs, but he still seems to have a lot of spunk!

Adoption Fee: $21.40!

In-Shelter Observation:
Visual Health: Good

Central Minnesota Animal Care & Control
Saint Cloud, MN

"$21.40 adoption fee / animal control... I'm guessing this pretty dog doesn't have much time left. I can work on finding a foster home, if necessary. This dog is a golden retriever, not a yellow lab."

When I spotted this dog on Petfinder, I sent that urgent message to Retrieve a Golden of Minnesota (RAGOM). It took a number of phone calls and a couple of worried days, but Bruce was saved just in time! Now his is living with an experienced foster home for Retreive a Golden of Minnesota (RAGOM) and loving life while he waits and hopes for a forever home. Read all about him on his own personal blog!

Remember Simba?

I discovered that Simba needed a home doing my searches for Friends of Flicka. I not only found a home, but I drove to Eau Claire to bring him back to his new home in the Twin Cities. He is getting along great with his new family which includes a feline buddy, Sparkles.

Love those happy endings!

Eddie

Who dumps a gorgeous puppy like this out in the country???

Eddie!
Golden Retriever

Size: Large
Age: Baby
Sex: Male
ID:


Notes:
This is Eddie. He is about 4 months old and he is a bundle of FUN! Eddie was dumped out in the county to fend for himself. He was rescued by the local authorities and brought to the shelter. Eddie is very outgoing and loves all! He is doing well with his potty training and will continue to succeed with the use of a crate. Please be prepared for the time and commitment a puppy needs! If you can offer an indoor, forever home that will keep this pup busy please apply to adopt Eddie! NEUTER CONTRACT IS MANDATORY!

This pet is up to date with routine shots.

This pet is already house trained.

Cedar Bend Humane Society
Waterloo, IA
319-232-6887
cbhsadoption@mchsi.com

Simba has a new home!

I lucked out, or rather Simba did. I sent on his Petfinder notice to just a handful of people, but one of those friends made a connection with a family who wanted Simba.

I actually drove to Wisconsin with my friend to get Simba, so I got to meet his former family who was heartbroken to give him up. Then I got to meet his new family that was so thrilled to have him.

He is getting along well, although the resident cat still has some reservations. Happy ending for Simba and his former family is glad to know he has a good home and that they can get updates.

A little effort can save a life.

Simba--urgent

This is one of the kinds of postings for which I'm watching when I search Petfinder.com every day for Friends of Flicka. Lots of times I can connect up people and organizations and solve a problem without an expenditure for Friends of Flicka and still save an animal.

Simba is an excellent example of a perfectly adoptable animal that will be euthanized if a home cannot be found. Networking can help with this situation and thank goodness Petfinder.com is out there so the stories can be heard by people who can help.

Below is an exchange of e-mails I set in motion. I hope Simba finds a home! I sent his info out to a number of selected contacts.

From: Jennifer

Sent: Thursday, September 04, 2008 10:53 AM

RE: Maine Coon needs new home - quickly

I still have him, someone just emailed me about him...I am so glad to hear someone watches for these animals and tries to help, please thank whoever this is...Jennifer

To: jennifer

Subject: FW: Maine Coon needs new home - quickly

Date: Thu, 4 Sep 2008 10:21:04 -0500

Hi Jennifer,

This fellow is making the rounds of Twin Cities/Feline Rescue email thanks to one of our volunteers who keeps her eye out for urgent needs. We have a couple of adoption applicants who might be interested in rehoming this guy, but before we get too deeply into it I wanted to make sure that this posting is current, and that Simba is still looking for a home.

Thanks,
S

PETFINDER.COM

Simba- Needs Help
Maine Coon,Tabby - whiteMix

Size: Large

Age: Adult

Sex: Male

Notes:
Simba's family has been given 2 days by their landlord to re-home him- and Catkins has NO room! He has been raised as part of the family and been around other cats, dogs and kids- he loves everybody! Simba is nearly 15 lbs, not because he's fat but because he's BIG! Simba is 2 years old, all 4 declawed, neutered and up to date on shots. If he sounds like the guy you've been looking for, please contact Jennifer today so he can get to you and to safety!

Email: jennifersue1@hotmail.com

Phone: 715-762-0098

His food, litter box and other personals come with him!

This pet is up to date with routine shots.This pet is already house trained.This pet has been altered.

Catkins Animal Rescue, Inc
Park Falls, WI

(715) 681-0022

catkins_wi@yahoo.com

In Memory of Kodiak

As he neared the ripe old age of 14, Kodiak had begun to show mild signs of breathing difficulties, so he was taken to the University of Minnesota Veterinary School. An x-ray revealed advanced lung cancer and a blood test showed the cancer was spreading through his body. He came home, but his condition worsened and a return trip to the hospital was necessary. It was a terrible shock because it came on so suddenly, but a blessing because he did not have to suffer. Our thoughts are with his lonely and confused young friend Yogi and the family and friends that loved him.



Dear Denise:

As you may have heard, Gus' beloved Kodiak passed away late last night at the U of M Vet Hospital. Thankfully he rested off to sleep peacefully gazing at Gus, while petted, hugged and kissed by both of us.



The King of Dogs is now reunited with his dear friend and sister Flicka, along with Gus' other Golden family members Bear, Grizzly, and Panda.



As painful as the decision was, as his condition worsened throughout the day and night, when Kody confirmed that he was ready, Gus and I recognized that he had lived his last good day and we knew that it was the right thing to let go before the pain overcame us all.



Thankfully, he left us in the majestic way he led his 14 years of healthy life.

Pure love.

Pure joy.

Pure golden boy.

Pins for Pets

HELP STRIKE TO PREVENT HOMELESS PETS Friends of Flicka is a member of the Homes For All Pets coalition, a group of Minnesota animal rescue organizations dedicated to working together to reduce pet overpopulation.

Chuck & Don's Pet Food Stores is planning a fundraising event whose goal is to raise $75,000 for spay/neuter activities. The money raised will be shared among participating rescues in the Homes for All Pets coalition.

WHAT IS THE EVENT? The event is Pins for Pets and it's scheduled for August 3rd from 4-6pm at Flaherty's Arden Bowl in Arden Hills. In short, it's a bowling party where up to 216 bowlers will roll strikes, spares and gutterballs to raise money to help spay and neuter animals. Check out http://www.pinsforpets/ for complete details.

Top fundraisers are eligible for some great prizes. The number one fundraiser will receive a $250 gift card and a trophy. Second place gets a $100 gift card; and third place a $75 gift card. There are also prizes for top bowling scores.

Plus there will be guest celebrities like Katie K-9, giveaways to all participants (canvas totes, towels), t-shirts and prizes. Door prizes include Chuck & Don's gift cards, a two-night stay at Madeline Island, puppy kindergarten classes, and a year's worth of free grooming.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? Register to bowl on August 3rd at http://www.pinsforpets.org/. The registration fee is $15 (non tax-deductible) and includes the cost of bowling, shoe rental, lunch and beverages. After registering you will be directed to the www.firstgiving.com/pinsforpets page to set up your fundraising page and start securing donations.

Bowling isn’t your strength? No problem! Social butterflies can just show up for the party. It will be a wonderful opportunity to mingle with other Twin Cities animal lovers. Some of the other rescues involved are; Pet Haven, Red Lake Rosie's Rescue, Feline Rescue, Cause for Paws, MN Humane Society, RAGOM, Animal Ark and Minnesota Spay/Neuter Project.

Can’t make it on August 3? You can still help raise money. Go directly to www.firstgiving.com/pinsforpets to set up your own fundraising page.

NEED MORE INFORMATION?
Check out http://www.pinsforpets.org/. Start watching the media this week for other announcements and promotions for the event!

Rusty needs a home

I run searches on Petfinder.com every day looking for animals that need help. Sometimes I make a connection with the appropriate group or a person I know who can help. Sometimes Friends of Flicka can help with funding, but other times there is just a sweet animal that needs a home and I try to get the word out there. How do you say no to this dog?
Rusty
Golden Retriever,SpanielMix
Size: MediumAge: SeniorSex: MaleID:
Notes:
Senior citizen looking for retirement home. I am good with small children and other dogs and cats. I had to come to the shelter because my dad is going over seas to Iraq and there will be nobody to take care of me. I am worried that no one will want me because I am older and I will have to live the end of my life at a shelter when I should be in my home basking in the sun and being pampered. Do you have enough love in your heart to take me home for a short time and love me the way I should be? I am housetrained too if that helps. Come up and take me home today.
This pet is up to date with routine shots.
This pet is already house trained.
This pet has been altered.
Humane Society of North Iowa
Mason City, IA
641-423-6241

hsni@netconx.net

Home for Life: Megan & Piper

Friends of Flicka sponsors two dogs at Home for Life, Megan and Piper. We recently renewed our sponsorship and received this update. Megan is in the first two photos and Piper is in the second two photos.

Thank you for your sponsorship of Megan and Piper. Attached please find a recent photo we hope you will enjoy.
Over the years, Home For Life has been blessed with the support of many compassionate people. These people understand that every living creature has innate worth. They understand that a creature's worth doesn't get smaller just because times are tight, or resources are scarce. Indeed, these humane people see that when times are hard, we must try even harder to help those who are having the worst time of it.

When hard times hit animal shelters and rescues, certain animals always have the worst time of it—the old, the disabled, and those with medical or behavior issues. They cannot compete with the other animals for adoptive homes. Some may wait years, exhausting the efforts of their rescuers, and still never find a home. And many others will never make it to the adoption floor. Instead, their chances will seem too bleak to bother, and they will simply meet an early end, though their lives are every bit as valuable as more adoptable animals.

Hundreds of such cats and dogs have found a happy landing at Home For Life sanctuary. And many shelters and rescues have found in Home For Life a partner and ally in the effort to do what we can for our canine and feline friends. Since its founding in 1998, the sanctuary has welcomed animals from dozens of shelters, vets and rescues in around the country, when all other efforts on their behalf had failed. Seeing a dog or cat that was without options get a second chance inspires hope in all of us who care about animals.

Lately the news has been filled with stories of people who are also facing hard times. More than ever, we appreciate your support as we reach out to help the many disadvantaged people of all ages served by our community outreach program, the Pet Peace Corps. Next month HFL is expanding one of our outreach programs, SIT*STAY*HEAL, to begin work at the Polytrauma Unit, located at the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis. The Polytrauma Unit is just one of four facilities that care for soldiers returning from the war in Iraq who have sustained multiple and severe injuries due to road side bombs and the like. Our volunteers will bring HFL dogs to visit these latest veterans and help reassure them that their fellow citizens are mindful of their sacrifices and care about their futures. We are proud that HFL's Pet Peace Corps programs are reaching so many people in our community, thanks to the support of our donors and sponsors.

We hope you were able to catch the Ron Schara MINNESOTA BOUND feature on HFL, which aired on Sunday, April 20 and Saturday, April 26, 2008 on KARE 11, Minneapolis/St. Paul's NBC affiliate. Please plan on seeing the sanctuary in person this summer. We will be open again for tours to our donors and sponsors beginning the first weekend after Memorial Day and thereafter every Wednesday and Saturday at 1:30 pm by appointment. Thank you again for your kind support!
Sincerely,

Lisa LaVerdiere
Executive Director

Home for Life: Megan's story

Friends of Flicka sponsors a golden retriever named Megan at Home for Life Sanctuary. Here is her story from the Home for Life website.

Megan in the Fall of 2007 with animal care specialist Liz Zais.

Megan is a Golden Retriever who came to Home For Life® at age 1-and-1/2 through the Golden Retriever breed rescue and a local vet.

The breed rescue did not believe Megan could be placed as she had a bite history. However, the vet who evaluated Megan's temperament detected vestiges of a kind heart and great intelligence, and felt that Megan deserved another chance at her young age. Dr. Petra Mertens, a behaviorist at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Teaching Hospital, evaluated Megan at our request. Dr. Mertens felt that Megan was a dominant dog, but had a good heart.

It turned out that two previous owners had treated Megan very roughly and unfairly in trying to discipline her natural, youthful canine exuberance. Megan bit back in protest. Still another owner, at her third home, had been bitten during the course of play that got out of hand. While biting is never permissible behavior in dogs, it was still felt that Megan could be rehabilitated, and Home For Life® decided to give her a chance.

Fortunately, with gentle and consistent handling, as well as weekly obedience lessons with Jan Tomlinson of Canine Sports and Training, Megan learned novice-level obedience, and has become reliable for our staff to handle. She even participates in the Renaissance Program and was a great hit during the presentation at a nursing home.

Megan talks heart-to-heart with a visitor at the 2006 Poker Run for Paws event.

Kodiak & Flicka

Kodiak & Flicka were golden retriever littermates who were lucky enough to be adopted together. They made the flight to their new home in carry-on bags and were a big hit with the other passengers.

They were delightful pups and quickly grew up, but their close brother/sister bond never changed

Kodiak was the bigger, handsome fellow with a gorgeous plume tail, a love for fun and attention.

Flicka was the more delicate girl; she was the smart one, but had to deal with some health issues including seizures and drugs to treat them for several years.


Kodiak and Flicka were lucky enough to have a home in the city near a lake where they could go for walks two and three times a day. On top of that they had a weekend place on a lake where they could run loose and go swimming and lounge in the sun.

As they grew older, they got white on their faces, but never lost their zest for life. Flicka broke many hearts when she died of cancer, but Kodiak carries on. He's now teaching the ropes to the new pup in the family.

Friends of Flicka was started in memory of Flicka and includes a special award named for Kodiak that is given to extra special volunteers.

It seems so right to improve the lives of other animals in recognition of these dogs who lived such good lives and brought such joy to those who knew them.