AMERICAN BRITTANY RESCUE NEWSLETTER - JUNE 2021 |
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TIME TO TRAVEL
By Judie Cutting
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"It doesn't matter where you are going,
it's who you have beside you."
-Anonymous
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Where can you find a travel companion that motivates you, makes you smile, laugh, and fills your heart with love? Look down; I bet your dog is ready to go. It’s the time of year to start exploring again. Whether by car, boat, or plane, traveling with your Brittany takes some preparation. Do not feel you are on your own.
Below are several apps that might be helpful for your travels and in finding pet friendly destinations:
All Trails has over 50,000 trails to explore with your dog.
Bring Fido has a list of restaurants, attractions, and hotels that welcome dogs.
Pet First Aid app by American Red Cross will point you to the nearest emergency animal hospital and provide step-by-step instructions for common emergencies.
PACKING FOR YOUR DOG
Besides packing for yourself, your dog will need some items to make this a wonderful trip, including: food, treats, water, collapsible bowls, toys, bed, leashes of different lengths, copy of health records, medications, poop bags, and a first aid kit. Your pet’s first aid kit can be purchased, or you can assemble it yourself and put things such as gloves, tweezers, scissors, saline, styptic pencil, gauze, elastic wrap, etc. in it. See our May 2021 eNews for details on putting together a first aid kit.
TRAVELING BY CAR
When traveling by car, prepare your dog for a long trip beginning with short, fun trips. Walk your dog beforehand so he/she has an empty bladder and is a bit tired out. If you find your dog gets car sick even with an empty stomach and a well-ventilated car, seek your veterinarian’s advice to see if medication is warranted. No matter the distance you travel or if your dog is microchipped, he should always wear a collar in case he gets loose. Also, secure loose objects to prevent injury in case of a sudden stop or accident.
There are several ways to secure your dog in a car, including cages and safety seats of different varieties and sizes. There are even seat belts that attach to your car’s seat belt to your dog’s harness. If you prefer to have your dog roaming free in the car, keep in mind the back seat is preferred so the driver is not distracted by a dog that wants to help them drive.
TRAVELING BY BOAT
When traveling by boat or enjoying watersports, you will need to invest in a life jacket for your dog. It is very important to get the sizing right for the girth and weight of your dog. You may find your Brittany to be a willing partner on your next canoe, paddleboard, kayak, jet ski, or boat ride. For their first time on any of the water toys be sure to let your dog explore, get their footing, and feel comfortable before you take off. If your dog loves this kind of adventure you will never go solo again!
TRAVELING BY AIR
When traveling by air, first check with the airlines to see which one is the best fit for you and your dog. Each airline has different policies and prices depending on where you are traveling, size and breed of the dog, and if your dog will be traveling in the cabin, cargo, or baggage.
Now is the time to make memories to last a lifetime. Happy travels!
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RUDY'S WORLDWIDE ADVENTURES |
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Speaking of traveling… Greetings from Germany! I'm Rudy and I celebrated my 8th gotcha day this February. I've been a busy dog since my life turned around the day I was rescued! I lived my first two years on a tie-out, but there’s no stopping me now. After ABR took me in, treated me for heartworms and got me back into good shape, I've been taking care of my three human siblings and my buddy Bailey. With our parents, we've explored all over! I even have my passport and moved with my family all the way to Germany and lived at the edge of the Black Forest for three years. We then spent two years in the sub-tropical paradise of Okinawa, and now we're back in the crisp cool air of Germany. I LOVE going for runs, exploring in the forest, and traveling. I've even been able to explore the Alps! I'm so grateful to everyone who saved me so I could lead this amazing and adventurous life! |
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VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH:
The "Assets" of Diana Doiron
By Autumn Fenton
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If you’ve ever donated to our organization or fostered a Brittany, you’ve probably been in contact with Diana Doiron. As ABR’s treasurer since 2009, Diana has handled everything from acknowledging monies received to reimbursing veterinarians. Yet Diana’s contributions far exceed bookkeeping duties.
ABR President Terry Mixdorf explains. “Diana is very dedicated to our rescue. She is always coming up with ideas to promote us. She keeps her eyes open for new items to add to our store or to raffle at special events. Always negotiating, she keeps costs down wherever she can. Diana just has the gift that makes it seem effortless.”
Those “special events” Terry mentions are the ABR picnic in California and the Nationals in Arkansas. Diana has faithfully attended both for many years. She developed strong friendships there, and fellow attendees always enjoy visiting with her.
Diana works on securing donations for these functions throughout the year and manages all ticket purchases. She also oversees operations for the picnic. Rather than focus on her contribution, Diana feels more comfortable giving credit to the other volunteers and even describing the merits of the location.
“We rent a dog park, which is close to three acres, and have a BBQ inside the area. We usually have about 100 dogs there,” says Diana. “I have a wonderful team who does most of the work. I’m just there to meet everyone, especially the new adopters.”
Arranging many of these adoptions herself, Diana also serves as the California and Nevada coordinator. And at one point, Diana also fostered ABR Britts, including 25 in only 13 months. She stopped because, at the time, her older male became stressed and nervous.
Recently, Diana decided to retire as ABR’s treasurer. An entire team will now share her duties. However, Diana agreed to remain on the Board of Directors to train them. Although she suffered a broken hip this past January, she assures us that has nothing to do with stepping down. Instead, she says, it was “just time.” Now she enjoys more free time to devote to her three Britts.
Diana shares her life with four-year-old Buster and three-year-old Ginger from Greece. And then there’s Dazy Dew! She’s the special girl. About 16 years old, Dazy Dew arrived as a foster and never left.
“My dogs make me happy,” says Diana. “I’m just afraid of the day I have to say goodbye to my Dazy Dew. She has been my heart dog since she came here at about five months old. I love all of my dogs, but she pulls at my heartstrings.”
Everyone who knows Diana attests to the fact that she has plenty of “heartstrings” and remains forever devoted to our cause.
“I can say with absolute confidence that Diana has been a huge asset to ABR over all these years,” says Terry. “Diana is a true friend to whoever she meets, and that’s why so many adore her.”
ADDING UP MORE FACTS ABOUT DIANA:
I love to quilt. Quilting is my favorite pastime.
I love to meet new people. I’m not really fond of speaking to a crowd.
Everyone who knows me knows I hate onions.
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Diamond #10340: Diamond is a true gem! Currently fostering in Michigan, she was one of four dogs taken in by rescue when their owner was hospitalized. Although she was an outdoor hunting dog, this 7-year-old girl quickly learned to enjoy the creature comforts of home. She thrives on the affection of her humans.
Diamond is an outstanding dog in so many ways. She is bright and athletic. She notices all flying creatures, from birds to butterflies. Her point stance is crisp and alert. She has great speed and strength, so a fenced-in yard with room to roam is required. She is learning to walk well with her leash and harness, and she is excelling with her crate training. Her thick and feathery curls were trimmed for summer, but her coat will not require intensive grooming.
Not motivated by food, high praise is the way to Diamond's heart. She was anxious the first 36 hours with her fosters, but quickly warmed up to adults and school-aged children. She has visited elementary classrooms and middle school groups with ease, soaking up affection from the crowds. Her excellent personality was remarked upon by her vet and groomer. Diamond has interacted with puppies and adult dogs. She will correct a rambunctious puppy with a motherly nip after enduring the 4th or 5th insult, which any good parent will appreciate. Otherwise, she is a calm and polite dog around other animals. While she was initially nervous to ride in a car, she now can take daily trips in the car. She will even be your co-pilot, enjoying the view through the windshield. She is not usually a vocal dog and can handle neighbors walking or cars and planes passing by without comment.
Diamond would excel most in a home with owners who do not crate her all day and will allow her to interact indoors and outdoors regularly. If you need a companion to sit outside with you while you garden or keep you active with daily walks, Diamond will shine brightly for you. Please no sight unseen adoptions for our girl. Family members (human and canine) must meet to assure we have a good match.
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Sage #10342: Sage is in Washington State wishin' and hopin' for a forever home where he can retire in style. He’s an ABR alum who was returned to us due to unforeseen circumstances. This gorgeous 14-year-old boy got a good report from the vet, and he still has spunk and plenty of love he'd like to share with some special people. He doesn't hear well, so he needs a fenced yard where he can explore safely. Sage still has good lovin’ in him for some lucky people!
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Chase #10356: Hello there! I'm Chase from Utah! I am a very handsome 9-year-old black and white French Brittany looking to start fresh with a family who will love me through my golden years. I grew up with people who loved me very much, and it's because they love me they are helping me find a home where I will be better suited. I have a strong prey drive, and my humans feel I'm no longer safe in my neighborhood where farmers are VERY protective of their small livestock and kitty-cats. It's hard for me to control what I was bred to do... I am a hunter at heart and though I try so hard to be a good boy, sometimes I climb over the short chain link fence and "entertain" myself. I will need to find a home with a safe and secure privacy fence that I won't be able to climb over. But now for the GOOD STUFF! I LOVE to cuddle and be around my people. I am great at going on hikes and have good recall off leash (when it's safe of course). I love to swim too! I'm also very well behaved in the house. Don't let my age fool you, I have a long second chapter of life ahead of me. If you think you're my perfect match, please fill out an adoption application and mention me, Chase! My fosters and I want to make sure it's love at first sight, so I hope you don't mind making the trip out to meet me so I can come home with you!
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Molly #10341: Meet Molly, sweet and petite at 28 pounds! This 7-year-old girl came to us primarily as an outdoor dog, but she has quickly learned to enjoy the comforts of being in the home. She thrives on the affection of her humans. Molly is still a bit timid around other humans and pets but is coming out of her shell every day. She is becoming more adventurous outside, so a fenced-in yard with room to roam is required. She is learning to walk well with her leash without pulling. Molly is comfortable in her crate for sleeping overnight. She is eating at night for us, and she does not seem to like others around when she eats. She has been anxious the first few weeks with us, but quickly warmed up to both adults and grandchildren alike. Molly does not ask to go out but has had no accidents in the house. Molly has interacted with both puppies and adult dogs and is somewhat standoffish with other dogs. She will need some work on this and should be the only pet in the home. Molly would be best suited in a home with owners who do not crate her all day, but rather can interact indoors and outdoors regularly. Please no sight unseen adoptions for our girl. Family members must meet to assure we have a good match.
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Are you looking to adopt a Brittany but don't see one available in your area? |
We welcome you to complete an adoption application to start the approval process, so you will be ready to adopt when the time comes!
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Do you have “Foster Tails” to tell?
A foster moment you’ll never forget?
A challenge you overcame?
A funny or heartwarming story?
A tale of encouragement?
A foster who made a special impact?
Whether it's a few sentences, a whole story, or a photo that speaks for itself, we would love to share your anecdotes, thoughts, and experiences. Please connect with us at social.networks@americanbrittanyrescue.org.
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HEALTH CORNER:
PET FIRE SAFETY
By Christine Brennan
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Each year, between 40,000 - 50,000 pets are lost in house fires. While some tragedies are unavoidable, there are measures you can take to lower the chances of your beloved Britt ever being part of this sad statistic.
With National Pet Fire Safety Day right around the corner on July 15, it’s a good time to review ways to protect your Britt, and any other furry family members, against fire danger.
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Pet proof your home against fire. Secure loose wires and other flammable objects. Extinguish any open flames such as candles, fireplaces, or outdoor fire pits before leaving the house. Make sure cooking appliances are turned off or unplugged -- especially if your Britt is a “counter-surfer!” When you’re at home and using these items, know where your pets are relative to the item. Our naturally curious Britts will investigate anything and everything.
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Check smoke detectors. According to the US Fire Administration, you should test smoke alarms monthly, replace the batteries annually, and replace the entire smoke detector every 10 years. If your Britt is home alone frequently, consider a smoke detector that connects to a monitoring center so emergency responders can be contacted when you’re not at home. Items such a Google home, Amazon Alexa/Echo, RIng doorbell, and many home security cameras can notify you via your phone if a smoke detector is activated in your home.
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Place a window cling (removable sticker) like this on a front door window or a highly visible house window to let rescuers know how many dogs, cats, and other pets are inside. Update the cling as your number of animals changes, for the protection of both animals and humans. If you sign up for information from the ASPCA, they’ll send you a free Pet Safety Pack that includes door and window stickers.
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Consider crate placement. If you keep your Britts and other animals crated while you’re out, keep crates close to exits or a window so they can be seen and rescued quickly by firefighters. Make a habit of keeping leashes and collars right next to the crate. Make sure your Britt’s collar has current ID information/tags.
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Include your pets in your family’s fire-evacuation plan. Keep a leash, an accurately labeled carrier, and treats near exits so you can grab them quickly. At least once a year, conduct a fire drill and always include your pet when you're practicing the escape plan.
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Create a “go” bag for your Britt that includes bottled water, a small bag of dog food, collapsible bowls, pet waste bags, an extra leash and collar, and a blanket. This, of course, can be used in any emergency, not just in the event of a fire.
One of the most important commands you can teach your Britt is to come when called, known as “recall.” Recall is useful in any number of situations, but few more important than in a fire. Work on recall with your Britt as often as you can, even if he or she is a recall champ.
Even a well-trained dog, however, can forget his or her training in a chaotic situation, so also know your Britt’s go to hiding spots, e.g. under the dining-room table or behind a couch. If you are outside and your pet is still inside, open doors and call them to come to you.
All that said, the experts agree: if you can’t find your pet, get yourself and your family out of the house and do not go back inside -- let firefighters take over the search. It’s a scenario difficult for any of us to even imagine. Taking the steps above may go a long way to help ensure you never have to.
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Now here's something to smile about!
Our quarterly AmazonSmile donation is in, and it's $1,568.28!
This makes a lifetime total of $19,754.22 in AmazonSmile donations to ABR.
A huge THANK YOU to our supporters who choose ABR as their charity when they shop on AmazonSmile. If you haven't signed up yet, please visit Smile.Amazon.com and learn how you can earn money for ABR while you shop - at no cost to you!
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ABR Masks are now for sale at the Brittany Boutique for $5
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Keep up-to-date on dog food and treat recalls on DogFoodAdvisor.com. You can also sign up to have recall alerts delivered to your inbox! |
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ABOUT THE AMERICAN BRITTANY RESCUE
American Brittany Rescue, Inc. is an organization that was formed in 1991 as a cooperative effort of Brittany owners, breeders, trainers, and fanciers who ABR believes have a responsibility not only for their own dogs and the dogs they produce, but for the breed as a whole.
THE AMERICAN BRITTANY RESCUE MISSION
ABR's mission is to provide the leadership and expertise via a network of trained volunteers to take in stray, abandoned, surrendered and/or impounded purebred Brittanys, provide them with foster care, health and temperament screening, an opportunity for any necessary rehabilitation and to assure their health and placement into new homes. In order to fulfill this mission, ABR's volunteers remain flexible and adaptable to current and future business environments and they remain dedicated to the organization.
ABR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Terry Mixdorf, President
Terrie Johnson, Vice President
Michelle Falkinburg, Secretary
Jeanette Seely, Interim Treasurer
Diana Doiron, Co-Treasurer
Sandra Oelschlegel, Chair
Nancy Hensley
Bobbi Tolman
Melissa Tapply DiLello
AMERICAN BRITTANY RESCUE E-NEWSLETTER TEAM
Brittany Boler
Christine Brennan
Jeannine Connors
Judie Cutting
Kristin Davis
Autumn Fenton
Lori Gartenhaus
Patricia Gillogly
Linda Joyce
Melissa Tapply DiLello
Debra White
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