The rains in May

  It certainly seems like the rainy weather has led to a surge in dogs, cats, puppies and kittens.  With our expansion into the Berryville facility formerly used by Go East Young Dog, the crest of incoming dogs has not stopped.  Both the BV facility and the Eureka Springs facility are at capacity, and the calls from the community about animals needing space have not stopped.  If anyone reading this has friends looking for a new pet, or can spread the word to friends and family, please stop by!
  Construction of a pad for the new expansion building at the Eureka facility started this past week, so it's been slightly chaotic here.  But, it is exciting to think about the possibilities.

  One of our shelter goals this year is to try and find homes for some of our long term dog residents.  We have a pair of "bonded pairs"--big dogs who need to stay together for their physical and mental well-being.  Let me introduce you.
  The first pair are brothers--Barney & Loki.  Yes, they are litter mates. 

  Barney and Loki are 3 years old, and they've never been apart.  They are quite playful now, although when they first got to Good Shepherd, they were extremely fearful and distrustful of people.  That has changed thanks to the efforts of some great dog techs and volunteers.  They're still big, still goofy, and still bark a lot, but once they know you have treats, they come running.  We've learned that they also get along well with other big dogs. 

  Our next "bonded pair" are sisters--Shadow and  Shelby, two black lab mixes.  The girls love to play with Barney & Loki in our big dog pen. 

These adorable dogs are 7 1/2 years old, and of course, they've been together their whole life.  Shadow has seizures, but she is well-controlled on a simple medication, and it hasn't seemed to affect her ability to play or socialize with other dogs. 

   Staff and volunteers at the shelter love these dogs and try to treat them like the wonderful pets they are--or like our own pets.  But the sad part is that these two pair of dogs have been waiting for a loving family for two years.  Wouldn't it be wonderful for them to find a permanent family?  These dogs have lots of love and loyalty to give to the right family.  Won't you please help share their stories and photos, and help our pairs find a new summer home?
 
  As exhausting as the work at the shelter can be, it's the love and appreciation we get from the animals each day that keeps us coming back.  Goofy big dogs barking, puppy breath, baby kittens whose eyes aren't open but who clutch tight to the baby bottle as we feed them, the dogs who just lean into you for comfort and security, and the adult cats who act so indifferent but really just want catnip--that kind of love can't be bought, nor can it be manufactured. 
  If you haven't been to the shelter in the past few years, come back and visit with our adoptable pets.  The staff can share many more wonderful stories about our pets.   See you soon!

It's a New Year at Good Shepherd!

Hello, everyone,

  Yes, it has been several months since I had time to write a new post.   The fall was very busy here at the shelter and for the organization too.  Our annual fundraiser, "The Doggie Style Show," was held in November and was a success.  The only disappointing part was that the venue did not allow us to bring any animals to the event.  However, we had lots of food and fun, and a great time had by all!  Most importantly, the event raised money to help our shelter dogs and cats. 
   Then the holiday season was upon us!  We participated again this year in the Best Friends Animal Society holiday event "Bring Joy to Your World."  The shelter staff also had help decorating the grounds this year.  All the dogs and the cats got stockings, and thanks to our generous donors, all got special treats and toys on Christmas.  Our volunteers put up lights on the front of the building, put new decorations on our front gate, and helped us string decorations inside the building.  It looked very pretty and festive!
  Our adoption numbers for December and the year showed an increase over last year, and that is a blessing indeed.  The sad thing is that the need for our services--to care for the homeless and unwanted companion animals of Carroll County Arkansas--has not diminished.  2014 was a year when GSHS took in Apollo, a beautiful Great Pyrenees who'd been shot and hit by a car and left to die.  Thanks to the dedicated efforts of shelter staff who cared for him, and generous members of the public who donated for his care, GSHS saved Apollo, his leg, and helped him find his forever home!
It was also the year that brought a little Sheltie to us, that we named Timmy.  A good Samaritan found Timmy on the roadside with his little belly cut open.  Again, thanks to our generous donors and the hard work of staff and our local vets, we saved little Timmy, who is now playing with his new forever family.
  2014 was also a year that we rescued animals from abusive situations, from the pit bull we saved from an owner who was planning to beat the dog to death with a hammer, to the cats rescued from an apartment complex where the teens were spray painting them and throwing rocks at them to hurt them, to the multiple dogs and cats simply abandoned in apartments or houses when the tenants vacated, left to starve.  We cared for kittens with birth defects, puppies with parvo, cats with respiratory viruses and corona.  Despite our best efforts, we could not save them, but we did save more that 96% of the animals that came to us in 2014.  In fact, our save rate for 2014 was higher than 2013 and 2012 (we reduced the number of deaths by half).  That is a trend that we are all working to continue in 2015.
  So far, 2015 has started with the same "bang" that 2014 ended with.  In the first two weeks of the year,  we have brought in dogs abandoned in a house without food, a cat left by a tenant, and another dog saved by the animal cruelty investigator who had been stuck in a small cage so long that the dog has pressure sores on his bottom and legs and is at least 30 pounds underweight.  So far, all of them are responding well to treatment and to lots of attention. 
  Even though it's a little late for the end of the year, I want to say a special thanks to my shelter staff, who work in often dirty conditions, and still manage to keep the kennels clean and shiny, the animals healthy, and give lots of love and attention (if you don't believe me, come listen to Sandra or Cassie, James, and Jimmy singing to the animals while they work).  I also want to say thanks to our board members and volunteers who spend lots of time and energy working so that the shelter stays up and running.  Lastly, I want to thank those in the community who don't look the other way when an animal is in trouble, but instead try to find some way to struggle and save the dog or cat. 
  For all of us who work so hard and struggle so valiantly and wonder if we make a difference, perhaps a little Dylan Thomas will remind us:

                      Do not go gentle into that good night.
                      Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

We are all the "light" for the companions in our care.  We are their voice and their advocates.  Remember.
  I'll try not to wait another 5 months to write.  GSHS has lots of fun things planned for the end of winter and spring.  We've got a pancake breakfast and a spaghetti dinner coming up, we've got special Valentine's Adoptions planned, and lots of fun things.  I hope to see you at the shelter!!

A good pet is a heart song, sung to the rhythm of lifes enduring drum.

Read more at: http://www.poetrysoup.com/poem/gifts_627549

A good pet is a heart song, sung to the rhythm of lifes enduring drum.

Read more at: http://www.poetrysoup.com/poem/gifts_627549

A good pet is a heart song, sung to the rhythm of lifes enduring drum.

Read more at: http://www.poetrysoup.com/poem/gifts_627549

 The introduction of the poem "Gifts" by M.L. Kiser

        A good pet
     is a heartsong,
  sung to the rhythm
of lifes enduring drum.


Enjoy.
Janice

  

The Dog Days are almost over!

  It's been quite a summer at Good Shepherd Humane Society's shelter.  Like rescues and humane societies elsewhere, the influx of puppies, kittens, and adult dogs and cats has reached a fever pitch.  Most of us here believe it has been the worst summer in years for animals being abandoned or dumped out in the country.  We do our best to try and care for as many as we can, but it can be quite emotionally draining for everyone involved in the care of the animals.
  When last I posted from Good Shepherd, Apollo had had his surgery and returned to us.  He is still at the shelter, and while he is making progress, his recovery has been slow.  Staff perform physical therapy on his leg two times daily, and more often as time allows, and we have several volunteers who have been working with him on his walking.  The biggest challenge that we face with Apollo is that he is still quite fearful of strangers, although once he gets to know someone, he is an affectionate and loving companion.  So for now, we're still waiting for the right "forever" family to come along.
  During the month of August, we've been running a cat special "pick a cat, pick a price".  It's a sort of "name your own adoption fee" on adult cats.  We've had enormous success, and although the final tally won't be until after 5 pm tonight, as of right now we've had 27 cats adopted and 29 dogs--close to a record for us, and certainly much better than the adoption numbers earlier this year.
  Good Shepherd will be continuing the "pick a cat pick a price" for the month of September.  We've still got lots and lots of really wonderful younger and older cats waiting for their forever families to come.  Every cat adopted frees up space so we can rescue others from our waiting lists.  So, if you know anyone thinking about adding a family pet, why not encourage them to consider a cat?  Better yet, encourage them to come down to Good Shepherd and spend some time in the Lighthouse on the couch with some of our feline friends.  It's a refreshing way to spend a hot late summer day.
  As we gear up for fall, lots of activities are beginning.  Good Shepherd will be hosting another vaccine clinic on October 4, from 10am until 1 pm in Eureka Springs (venue undecided yet).  Call the shelter for more information.  The shelter is also planning a "howling" good time for Halloween, with fun and games for everyone.  Stay tuned for more information.
  Then, of course, the 34th annual Doggie Style Show is set for November 11 at the Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center.  As always, watch the papers for more exciting details.  In a change from prior years, NO animals allowed this year however. 
  Yes, it's hard for us here at the shelter to believe that the summer is almost gone.  Seems like it just warmed up!  But we have had some other great things happen during the summer.  Earlier this year we received a grant from The Binky Foundation (www.binkyfoundation.org) in support of our "Peaceful Beginnings" project.  With the grant, we have been able to purchase noise-reducing mats for the inside dog kennels.  Although we've only gotten half of them installed, the staff have noticed a substantial decrease in the noise and echo on the backsides of the dog runs.
  Back in July, we were also honored to have Stacy Moore "The Muttman" in Eureka Springs to hold dog training clinics.  Mr. Moore held two clinics for the public at the shelter, plus he scheduled private lessons.

Those attending his sessions at the shelter were attentive and pleased with the classes.  The two photos above show the attendees watching the demonstration and then working with their own dogs. 
 Mr. Moore also held a special clinic for the staff of the Good Shepherd at no cost to us, which was quite wonderful!  A huge shout-out to him in thanks.
  Using funds from a private donor, the shelter has been able to replace all of our old dog kennels in the front of the shelter.  These kennels are used during the day to allow the dogs some fresh air and exercise while staff are cleaning cages inside.  The front area of the shelter looks much spiffier now, and the dogs are happy with their new abodes.
  There are still several projects that need done at the shelter.  We have gotten most of the building repainted, but there are still some areas needing painted.  We are also looking for volunteers to help us install a front perimeter fence when the weather cools down.  I also need volunteers to put skirting around our outdoor cat buildings before winter to help make the buildings warmer for a feline residents.  The Eureka Springs Fire Department has also discussed doing a "Firewise" project at the shelter, so stayed tuned for more information.
  As always, we need volunteers at the shelter and donations.  Staff use lots of peanut butter for the dogs, giving meds to them.  We can also always use dog biscuits or treats, trash bags and bleach, scrubby sponges, copy paper, and other items.  If you'd like to buy a bag of dog or cat food for the shelter, we get our food at Powell Feed & Fuel on 21 N--the store's Value Pac red label 50 lb for dogs, and Diamond Naturals Indoor Cat food (18 lb bags).  
  Till next time!!!!!
  Janice

Saving Life and Limb

Greetings to all!  It has truly been a week for the record books here at the Good Shepherd Humane Society.  Let me introduce you to one of our rescued dogs, Apollo.

As you might be able to tell, this is a picture of Apollo taken in one of Good Shepherd's outdoor kennels.  His right front leg is broken, and he looks kind of a mess.  If you've read the newspaper stories, you might know his background already.  About three weeks ago, I got a call from an elderly man who lives out in the country.  Someone had dumped or abandoned a bunch of dogs near him, and one of these dogs had been hit by a car.  The elderly gentlemen needed help because he was physically unable to pick up the dog or transport him.  Unfortunately, we don't have staff for that purpose either.  So, I called the local animal cruelty investigator, who is sometimes able to pick up dogs for us, but she was unavailable.  I then called another local rescue that we often work with, Unconditional Love.  Diane (Ferguson) was unable to go either, but she called the staff at Go East Young Dog in Berryville.  Karen and two volunteers were able to go and find the dog we named Apollo.  

  They brought Apollo in to the shelter using a plastic folding table as a stretcher.  Apollo had been down for a couple of days, and was quite dehydrated at that time.  Once we got him in a kennel and got some food and water in him, he responded to all of us.  While cleaning Apollo's matted hair and checking him for injuries, we discovered a bullet hole in his chest. 

  Even though we knew his leg had to hurt, and it was clearly broken, never once did he growl at any of the staff or whimper or complain.  What a trooper!  

  Ordinarily, the "routine" treatment in a case like Apollo's would be amputation of his leg.  However, after much discussion back and forth, and, frankly, hesitation on my part to proceed with that surgery, Dr. Muller, our vet, contacted Azzore Veterinary Specialists in Russellville.  Once we had a rough idea of the cost, one of our great shelter volunteers, Debbie C., suggested that we do a public appeal.  So with the help of my assistant manager, Amanda Van Sickle, and Debbie, we drafted the Facebook post and contacted the newspapers.  Debbie took some photos for us, and then, we waited.

  It didn't take long.  Within twelve hours we had half the money we needed donated!!!  We were pleased, amazed and stunned!!!  At that point, I called and scheduled his surgery.

   Again, our volunteer Debbie rode to the rescue for Apollo!  She agreed to pick up Apollo at the shelter on Monday, June 23, and then get up early Tuesday morning to transport him to Russellville for his appointment at 8:15 am.  Here's a picture of Apollo at her place the night before surgery.  

Poor baby!  But he was well-cared for.  I talked to the vet clinic several times on Tuesday, and they assured me Dr. Dew would call me after Apollo's surgery was done.  Sure enough, at 5 minutes before 6pm, I got a call from Dr. Dew.  Apollo had come through surgery like a champ, and the vet expected him to make a good recovery.  Because we had had some delay in getting his surgery done, the procedure took a little more time than a more recent break would have taken.  Apollo will need some ongoing care, and he will have an external fixator in place for probably three months.  The staff here at the shelter will also begin doing passive range of motion exercises to strengthen his injured leg after his follow-up appointment in two weeks.
  Debbie picked Apollo up to bring him "home" on Wednesday, the 24th.  The staff at Dr. Dew's laughed when Debbie arrived.  Apparently, Apollo had been making the staff pick him up and carry him outside, but when Debbie arrived, Apollo got up and followed her out the door!!  I guess he was ready to head back to us!!
 

He looks like one happy dog ready to hit the road again!

  So far, Apollo's recovery is proceeding smoothly.  He has some bruising and swelling in that right leg, which is normal and to be expected.  He is walking and doing what he needs to do, and the staff are doing a great job working with his special needs at the moment.
  I know I speak not only for myself, but for all of the staff at the shelter, the board, and our members when I say thank you to all the incredibly kind and generous people who have donated to help Apollo.  Every donation, no matter how large or small, is being put to good use to care for Apollo.  Those of us who work animal rescue are so often overwhelmed by the suffering, neglect and abuse that we start to think no one cares.  However, I can say without exaggeration that the outpouring of kindness and compassion for Apollo has reminded me--and all of us--how truly generous people are.  Taking care of Apollo's needs is not a one-person task--he truly has a "village" of angels watching out for him.  My personal thanks to all those who made this miracle happen!  Stay tuned for more updates, and check out our Facebook site.  You can also read more about Azzore Veterinary Specialists on Facebook, youtube or on twitter. 

  

Fur Fun Fest wraps, Back in Black promotion continues.

Good Sunday!  Yesterday was the first Fur FunFest held by Good Shepherd Humane Society at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.  I don't have any numbers on turnout yet, but the bands were great, kids won lots of toys, and I saw lots of kids with magic wands and toys they had made.
  More important, at least for us at the shelter booth, was that TWO of our dogs got great homes!  We had a great selection of kittens, adult cats, dogs and puppies at the show, and our pets also got great exposure and lots of attention from the crowd.  I'm hoping that several of them will find forever homes in the near future.  The picture below is one of our dogs, Jake, with a member of his new family.  I don't know about you, but I think Jake has found a forever home, don't you agree?

  It's kitten (and puppy) season here at the shelter.  We have about 30 kittens under 12 weeks of age right now, and in almost any color you might like.  We also have some wonderful adult cats, too.  If you've been thinking about adding a pet to your family, the month of May is a great time!  We continue our "Back in Black" promotion, as part of the Best Friends Animal Society's No More Homeless Pets Network promotions.  Black or mostly black dogs and cats are half-price through May.
  It was pretty windy and overcast when we arrived at the parade grounds, so our cats' cages were all swaddled with blankets.  We still had lots of people in to visit them, regardless of the wind.

  The shelter staff, and our thrift store staff and volunteers, are tired from the past weeks' activities, but successful fundraising means that we can continue to provide care and shelter to the animals of Carroll County.  The shelter staff also had a couple of happy stories this week, to add to our list of accomplishments.  First, some nice people had picked up an old dog this week.  They found the dog standing in the middle of the road, looking lost.  They didn't recognize him, and we hadn't had any calls about lost dogs matching his description.  We estimated that he was about 12-14 years old, and a big, lovable fellow he was.  He was at the shelter for two days, when we received a call from some people looking for their lost dog.  Thanks to the efforts of his owners, the nice people who rescued him, and Good Shepherd staff, Snausage (that was his name) was reunited with his family!  He is 14 years old, and I know he was delighted when his family came to get him.
  The other really happy story came yesterday.  One of our staff members had lost his dogs two weeks ago.  He'd posted signs, put them Tradio, posted them on websites, etc, without any luck.  When I got to work early yesterday morning, I found a message on the phone.  We all played a hunch (no description of the dog's on the message, but the location was near where the dogs had gone missing) and, voila'!!!  He found his dogs, too.
  Good Shepherd will be hosting other adoption events and fundraisers in the near future.  We are also always looking for volunteers to work with our animals, to socialize and just have fun.  If you have a younger family member (under 12 years old)  we are going to sponsor a reading program this summer (the months of June and July) called "Reading Rangers."  This program aims to helps kids work on their reading skills by reading to the cats and dogs in their kennels.  Stay tuned for more information.
  As always, contact us at the shelter if you have any questions, need information, have an idea (!) or want to help.  We'd love to talk to you!

The joy of pet adoptions!

   Good Shepherd Humane Society has become a new Petco Partner.  One of the benefits this gives us is the chance to do adoptions at a local Petco.  Saturday, April 26, a group of intrepid volunteers and I loaded up eight cats and all the assorted "stuff"--kennels, litter pans, food, water, toys and treats--and headed to the Fayetteville Petco.  We arrived around 11 am and got all our kitties set up, in the shade, and had our tables, banners, and posters up.  Nan, our shelter volunteer coordinator, and Dave, her partner, had made some great cat posters.  Darlene, another of our volunteers, had made some special tablecloths and bed liners for the cats.  We were all a little bit nervous, never having been there before, but the Petco manager, Vicky, and her staff could not have been nicer to us.  They made us welcome, and they made us feel as though our cats were the most important babies there that day.
  By 3:00 pm we had adopted three of the 8 cats--not a bad average, and we had collected donations, too.  But for me, the most important and successful outcome of the day was the sense of fun and camaraderie we all shared.  It was good for my soul, and I know it was good for the cats.  We also met some truly kind people who stopped to visit with us and meet our pets.  While I know it is a lot of work, and takes time away from other things, I'm also firmly convinced that any opportunity to boost our pet adoptions is beneficial.
  The shelter is always looking for volunteers.  If you'd like to come out and walk dogs or play with kittens, or if you'd like to join us at Petco or even at the Fur FunFest on May 17th, give me a call at the shelter.  You know you'll be glad you did.

Honoring a Life

      Good Sunday to all!  Yes, I regret that I haven't made a post in almost two months.  The shelter has been busy, full to the brim, and the weather has been, well, wintery.  Time just got away from me.  That doesn't mean I haven't thought about the news I need to share about Good Shepherd and our wonderful animals and projects.  In fact, I think perhaps part of my delay has been simply needing time to ponder events and happenings. Some of us, perhaps, also needed time to grieve and celebrate a life now gone from us.
    Ken Bates, a long time supporter of Good Shepherd Humane Society and a staunch advocate for responsible pet ownership, left us on February 22, 2014. He and his wife, Bobby, became involved with Good Shepherd shortly after moving to the area when Ken retired in 1983.  Many in the community knew Ken much, much better than I did, but in my almost two years at Good Shepherd, Ken had become as much a fixture of my daily life as my dogs and cats and family.  He was always present--even if not physically at the shelter.  He suggested tactics, approaches, ideas for different problems, and he watched and monitored events unfold.  He also helped in whatever way he could--sometimes reminding me of something forgotten, or, like a great editor, catching the "oops" moments of typos and errors so that we could correct them and make our presentation for Good Shepherd better. 
     Some folks may have thought Ken simply a curmudgeon--but he wasn't, at least not in the real definition of the world.  He didn't complain or grump just to grouse--he always had a purpose, even when we--I--didn't appreciate it at the time.  And like many of us do, I didn't always realize what a treasure it was to get that email or hear that voice every day. 
      Ken did so much and had done for so long, that only in the week before his passing did those of us at the shelter realize how things would change.  For example, Ken had taken all the animal photos for the shelter for years.  Reading this, you might not think that would be much of a chore, but in fact, my staff and I have discovered that it takes about 4 -6 hours a week just to shoot photos and try to edit them.  Then, there's the cost of printing the photos for posters and getting them uploaded.  Ken and Bobby also maintained photo boards throughout Carroll County, and this was a task they gladly did every week.  Ken would take pictures, print them, and he and Bobby would take one day a week to update all the boards.
     Ken also served on our shelter committee.  He was a repository of institutional history, and he often gave new insight to a policy or procedural matter that made no sense to me.  Ken also gave freely--not just of his time, but in providing items the shelter needed.  I went into our food shed a couple of days ago, and the note hanging on the wall said "Call [Ken] when you're down to four cat boxes."  Ken took the time to collect cardboard boxes from stores, and then he used a hole saw and cut air holes in the boxes so we had sturdy carriers to adopted cats.  Ken also bought our slip leashes, 200 at a time, so we had leashes and collars for adopted dogs.  Little things taken for granted, and now, we must find elsewhere. 
 
      It's all about time--the time we have, the time we share, the time that is never enough, the time unappreciated.  Time is constant yet always moving. It brings to mind a line from a poem, "time is the fire in which we burn."  No matter how hard we may wish, the river of time continues it's great march, and the currents bring us in and out of others lives.  I am certain that many of the members of the Good Shepherd Humane Society, as well as the dogs and cats,  will agree with me when I say that I am unquestionably thankful and blessed that the river of time brought Ken Bates to our shore.

Thank you, Ken.


To those of you unfamiliar with the poetry of Delmore Schwartz, I am including the entire poem below. 

Calmly We Walk through This April’s Day

By Delmore Schwartz

Calmly we walk through this April’s day,   

Metropolitan poetry here and there,   

In the park sit pauper and rentier,   

The screaming children, the motor-car   

Fugitive about us, running away,   

Between the worker and the millionaire   

Number provides all distances,   

It is Nineteen Thirty-Seven now,   

Many great dears are taken away,   

What will become of you and me

(This is the school in which we learn ...)   

Besides the photo and the memory?

(... that time is the fire in which we burn.)

(This is the school in which we learn ...)   

What is the self amid this blaze?

What am I now that I was then

Which I shall suffer and act again,

The theodicy I wrote in my high school days   

Restored all life from infancy,

The children shouting are bright as they run   

(This is the school in which they learn ...)   

Ravished entirely in their passing play!

(... that time is the fire in which they burn.)

Avid its rush, that reeling blaze!

Where is my father and Eleanor?

Not where are they now, dead seven years,   

But what they were then?

                                     No more? No more?

From Nineteen-Fourteen to the present day,   

Bert Spira and Rhoda consume, consume

Not where they are now (where are they now?)   

But what they were then, both beautiful;

Each minute bursts in the burning room,   

The great globe reels in the solar fire,   

Spinning the trivial and unique away.

(How all things flash! How all things flare!)   

What am I now that I was then?   

May memory restore again and again   

The smallest color of the smallest day:   

Time is the school in which we learn,   

Time is the fire in which we burn.

 

Delmore Schwartz, “Calmly We Walk Through This April’s Day” from Selected Poems (1938-1958): Summer Knowledge. Copyright © 1967 by Delmore Schwartz.

How to combat the winter doldrums

Happy almost-end-of-January, everyone!  Like many places in the US this month, we've had our share of really, really cold, snowy icy weather, mixed with some really warm days.  However, the dogs and cats at Good Shepherd are doing well.  Adoptions have been a little slower than last year, but the bad weather has also kept us closed for some days.
  Many people seem to suffer from "the doldrums" during January.  Maybe it's because of the letdown following the holiday season, or the cold, snowy days that always seem to be dark.  January can be a tough month for everyone.  But I have a cure for the blues--come visit the animals at Good Shepherd!!!  We have a wonderful group of cats and dogs that would love to spend some special "cuddle time" with you.  All it takes is a willing heart, and a few minutes out of your busy day.  We all read about the health benefits from petting a dog or cat.  Spending time with a pet can lower your blood pressure, improve mood, and just in general make you feel great.  More importantly, spending time with an animal at the shelter means that the dogs and cats benefit from your wonderful companionship, too.  Bring along a book, or bring a CD of classical music or light music to play.  Try reading to the cats in the lighthouse or the new "teen cat colony."  I know, I know, it sounds silly--but don't knock it until you try it!!!!
   I've been thinking this week about the whole idea of "shelter".  Far too often I hear volunteers and our wonderful donors say things like "It just breaks my heart to see the animals like that."  "I can't bear to go to the shelter because it's so sad," and so on.  Yes, it can be sad, but it does not need to be depressing.  Focus on the word "shelter".  A shelter is something that covers and protects: not a sad and lonely place, but a place of hope and happiness.  Is a shelter as good as a family and a warm home?  No, I don't think any of us would argue that.  However, as a place of safety and protection, there isn't anywhere better for our stray and unwanted animals of Carroll County to be but here.  I like to think that our shelter staff, volunteers and members provide warmth, safety, protection, love and HOPE to all the dogs and cats in our care.  Perhaps we don't always do it perfectly, and perhaps we sometimes get overwhelmed by the seemingly unending need, but the one thing none of us do is give up!!! 
  We don't just warehouse our animals.  We strive every day to give them all some extra attention, some affection, some kindness.  Our volunteers do a fabulous job filling in the gaps when staff are too stretched to provide all the little touches.  Remember--"shelter" is what we do--we love and protect those in our care.  So the next time you hear someone say it's "too sad" to come to Good Shepherd's shelter, I hope you'll think of these words and pass them along. 

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!

  It's been a wild start to 2014 here at Good Shepherd.  Even though we are typically closed on New Year's Day, we had several families stop by, and we ended up adopting animals.  What a great way to start the year!   Remember Trouble (as in "anything but") who we showcased after the style show in November?
One of the families at the shelter yesterday adopted our girl, and the word today is that she is happy and content in her new digs.  What a star!!!
  Good Shepherd has many new things planned for 2014, and it's going to be bigger and better than ever!  First up will be a pancake breakfast fundraiser on January 25.  We've been given a great opportunity to acquire some additional land that will be quite useful.  The pancake breakfast will be at the First United Methodist Church in Eureka Springs from 7:30 until 11:30 on that Saturday.  I hope you all can come and join us for a great cause!!
  Winter weather has slowed our opening of our new feline house, but tomorrow should be the "big day" for letting the cats in to play!!  Stayed tuned for photos. 
  It's the start of another year, and what better time to renew your membership in the Good Shepherd Humane Society.  Individual memberships are only $20/year, and family memberships are $40.00.  There are also categories for Youth ($5.00), Business ($100.00) and Lifetime ($500.00)  Whys not join today, and share a gift that gives all year long.

Santa needs a little help this year . . . .

Sunday, December 15, 2013

HAPPY "HOWLIDAYS" from the Shelter!!!  Actually, all the dogs and cats are quite happy that it has warmed up a bit today.  The dogs, especially, are hoping that it will be warm and dry enough tomorrow so they can get outside for a few hours!  Poor babies have been cooped up inside the shelter for more than a week now because of the ice and snow.

   If you're trying to find the perfect gift for the animal lover on your list, Good Shepherd has several suggestions at prices to fit almost any budget.
  
  1.   Have family or friends looking to adopt a new pet, but can't quite decide?  How about getting them a "Gift-a-Pet" certificate for Christmas?  Purchase a gift certificate for a pet between now and Christmas Eve, and you get 25% off the purchase price.  The certificates are good for one year, and your pet-loving family or friends will be able to browse and choose the perfect new addition to their own family! 

  2.   Interested in making a gift donation in honor of a friend or family member who's a bona fide pet lover?  We have lovely certificates that will acknowledge your generous gift that you can place in a card under the tree or in a stocking.  It's a winning idea for you, for the recipient animal fan, and for the dogs and cats of the Good Shepherd Humane Society.

  3.  Purchase a gift certificate for the Doggie Thrift stores.  Again, you get the certificate for your friend or family member, they get the fun of shopping and finding great bargains, and your gift benefits the dogs and cats at the shelter .  What better way to say "Merry Christmas?" 

  4.  Visit either of our Doggie Thrift Stores.  Tracellen, our wonderful store manager, has new items coming in every day.  You can find lots of neat gift items, vintage and kitsch and everything in between.  Your purchases at either store help support the animals at the shelter--and you'll be known as the savvy, environmentally aware gifter!!!

  Don't forget--you can also give a gift of a spay/neuter to a friend who has a pet that needs altering.  We can assist you with prices, so if you'd like more information, give the shelter a call. 

  Even with the crazy bad weather, we have had a couple of adoptions this month, but things are usually slow around the holidays.  If you know of someone who plans to "buy" a puppy or kitten for someone for Christmas, please--respectfully--ask them to consider visiting their local shelter and saving a homeless dog or cat rather than supporting a puppy mill.  We have lots of loving pets here at the shelter who are hoping that  Santa brings them a forever family this Christmas.  Maybe you can help? 

   Happy December everyone!!  We here at the shelter are finding it hard to believe that another year is almost over.  Our "Back in Black" event ended this weekend, and what a weekend we had!  We had lots of visitors to the shelter, which was so good to see, and more importantly, several of our dogs and cats have found new forever homes. 
  I am overcome with joy because one of the lucky dogs this weekend was our special Patches!  For those of you who don't know, Patches came to Good Shepherd May 25, 2012 (yes, more than a year ago).  He was about 6 months old when he came here, and he's fully grown now.  A year ago, at Christmastime, we noticed that he started "bunny-hopping" when he ran.  Our vet checked him out, and we took Patches to get some x-rays.  Turned out he has congenital hip dysplasia--bilaterally--although one hip was significantly worse.  After some holiday fundraising last year, we were able to get surgery for Patches so he could get around easier.  After a few weeks recuperating, you'd never know he'd had anything done.  Patches has always just been a lovable, goofy big baby, but like a lot of big dogs, he waited and waited.
  That waiting ended today.  A family in Eureka visiting for the holidays had seen the poster downtown and had spoken to Bobbie Bates--who has manned her downtown station for many, many years.  They were specifically drawn to look at dogs who had been at the shelter for a long time or who needed extra care.  They checked out a couple other of our special-needs dogs, but when Patches came out of his kennel, it was love at first sight for all of them. The woman (Carey)  sat down and Patches laid down in her lap!  It was as if meant to be.  I asked the family for permission to post a photo, and here it is:

Mike Ripoll and Dave Ashcraft, the dog techs on duty today, are also in the picture with the Hoover family.  And of course, Patches, front and center, and delighted to be there. 
  As an aside, to help you understand just how happy Patches is, this is a dog who, except for his surgery, has not been outside of the shelter grounds since May of 2012.  We are all so delighted and happy for Patches.  He got his Christmas wish early this year! 
  Along with Patches going home this weekend, we had a pair of girls who also found a wonderful new home.  Shadow and Shelby, six-year-old litter mates, got adopted to the same family.  The girls were both terribly shy and bashful with most people, but even the shy Shelby found comfort with her new family.  As big dogs, a little older, and with special needs (Shadow has seizures and Shelby hates to be separated from Shadow) we were challenged trying to find an adoptive home for them--until today.  The dogs were so eager and ready to go to a loving home, and the adopters had the understanding and knowledge to work with these wonderful dogs.  We wish all our adopters and our dogs and cats the best of everything.  My holiday wish is that the rest of the month of December is like this weekend--where good people come to adopt our dogs and cats into loving, caring forever homes.  Enjoy the holidays!!!!

The Style Show and other ruminations

Well, it has been an extremely hectic couple of weeks here at Good Shepherd!  For regular readers and members, of course, this past Tuesday, November 19, was our annual Doggie Style Show!  What a riot!  I have heard nothing but cheers from staff and volunteers that everyone who attended has a blast.  The Christmas boutique, the clothing boutique and the silent auction were jam-packed all night, and we ran out of food!  This event is the biggest single fundraiser that Good Shepherd has all year, and it was so nice to see so many of our supporters and friends out enjoying themselves.
We took a few pictures along the way.

 

 

The picture above is one of our most enthusiastic and hard-working shelter volunteers, Nan Johnson.  Nan manned the "Love Shack", offering pooch smooches to all!  Who says you can't buy love?  Pictured with Nan is a beautiful little girl named Rose, who is being adopted out-of-state.

 

Next, meet Trouble--as in "anything but".  We love this girl!!  She's about ten years old, but you'd never know it from her spunk and sassy personality.  This girl was made for the stage.  She's been strutting her stuff this fall at parades and on the catwalk.  Maybe we should arrange for a Hollywood agent--this girl is a STAR!!!

 

 

 

And this last photo--oh my!!  On the far left is Adrienne Gremillion (apologies for misspellings) who did a fabulous job as a last-minute replacement for the fashion show chairwoman.  Front and center is Rachel Brix, owner of Percy's Dog Spa in Eureka Springs and a shelter volunteer.  Rachel offers dog training classes to the public, and has also been teaching classes for the shelter staff.  Standing in the middle is Mike Ripoll, one of the shelter's dog tech staff, and he's holding the leash of Kilo, another shelter dog.  Finally, on the far right, is another outstanding Good Shepherd volunteer, Mel Jensen.  Mel was the security chair for the Style Show, and he did a fantastic job along with his crew,  Thanks so much to all of you.  We could not be successful without lots of good people helping us.

 

 

 

   While I love talking about happy stories at the shelter, sometimes we deal with sad events too.  The next pictures are of a dog we're calling "Zippy". 

 

Here's why we are calling him Zippy.  He was found last night zip-tied to a fence, only able to move his head a couple of inches, not even able to sit down, out in the country in the middle of nowhere.  Fortunately, some compassionate people heard his whimpers and went looking for the noise and found him.  The people who brought him to us were tourists from Kansas City, but they took in this strange dog at their place overnight, went to all the neighbors to see if anyone recognized him, and called us when all else failed.

 

  Make no mistake, folks.  This dog would have died of exposure last night if some kind people hadn't found him.  Some HUMAN took the trouble to put a plastic zip tie around this dog and leave him tied, defenseless, without food, water, or shelter.  The dog didn't do this to himself.  Please, tell your friends, tell your neighbors, tell your kids--there are better ways to deal with a pet you don't want to keep any longer.  Call someone, call us--we can help.  

 



  These are the stories that make me sad and make me angry.  But the bright spot is that Zippy is safe and waiting to be found.  Maybe his owners are looking for him and will see our posting.  If not, we'll find him a great home after his waiting period.

 

  Don't forget--through December 1 Back in Black continues, with adoption specials.  Thanksgiving weekend we're going to have some "door-buster" specials, so if you get tired of the bustle of the stores, come out to the shelter and visit us. Have a cup  of cocoa or some cookies, pick up some "gift-a-pet" certificates for the animal lovers you know, and spend some time soaking up all the love our adoptable pets have to give.  It truly is Thanksgiving.

 

Janice

Back in Black continues!

  Happy Sunday!  We are starting our second week of the "Back in Black" promotion for adopting black or mostly black dogs and cats.  We have had a couple adopted already as a result of the campaign, and we have more advertising soon for the pets.  The ads will  help showcase our wonderful black dogs and cats and let people know what great pets are available for adoption here at the shelter.
  Saturday was a pretty awesome day here at the shelter.  We adopted three cats and three dogs, plus another puppy that is going home today.  Jacqui Froelich from KUAF radio was here to do a report on the shelter and the "Back in Black" campaign, and it was really great to give her a tour and show off some of our dogs and cats.  I'll let everyone know when the piece will air on the radio.

  Speaking of Back in Black, let me introduce you to Zoe. 

She is a beautiful tuxedo cat.  She came to Good Shepherd in April of 2012 as a stray found at Lake Leatherwood.  Zoe is an "old-timer" here at the shelter.  She loves people and gets along great with her friends in the Lighthouse, but she would really love to have a forever "home for the holiday"!  Do you have space for a mature, sensitive, and independent spirit in your home this year?  Zoe might be the perfect match for you!!

  Now I'd like to introduce you to Sasha.  Do you need a loving kitty who's also a great mouser?  Then you should meet Sasha. 

Like Zoe, Sasha is a mature cat who knows how to be independent, but still loves a good rubbing or snuggling.  She's got that attention to detail that makes for a good mouser--or a good entertainer (have YOU ever watched a cat try to catch a fly!  It's hysterical.)  Why don't you stop by and visit Sasha in the Lighthouse.  You'll be glad you did.

  Lastly, I'd like you to meet Kitana.  What a beautiful kitty! 

Kitana is a black tortie, so she has black and orange and kind of a creamy yellow color.  She is an incredibly affectionate cat, too.  She came to the shelter in May of 2012 when her owner moved and abandoned her.  Poor thing!  Kitana is no bother to anyone.  She gets along great with other cats, and she loves people--kids and adults, just like Zoe and Sasha.  All three are in our Lighthouse (the cat colony room).  She's a smaller sized kitty, too, but she has loads of personality.  She's waiting to say hello!

  Don't forget, tomorrow is Veteran's Day.  Good Shepherd staff and volunteers will be walking dogs in the Veteran's Day parade tomorrow.  The parade is downtown and starts at 10 am.  In fact, the father of one of the families who adopted a puppy from us yesterday is part of the Honor Guard carrying the American flag tomorrow for the American Legion.  He's a hero to our country as well as a hero to our dogs!  Give a cheer tomorrow, and say thanks for all our veterans do for us.  

I hope that everyone  had a fun and safe Halloween!!   Today, November 1, launches our month-long promotion--Back in Black--and of course, our annual Doggie Style Show set for November 19.

  Most of you may not know that black dogs and cats spend a much longer time in shelters across the country and have much lower adoption rates.  Why?  We just know that black animals are the most overlooked in shelters.   Did you know that, everyday, more than 9000 dogs and cats are KILLED in shelters in this country?  Part of the work of the Best Friends No More Homeless Pets Network is to raise awareness of the needs of homeless animals, and to prevent needless suffering and death by working toward a "no-kill" America.  Good Shepherd is proud to be a part of this network, and we work everyday to educate the public and provide care for the animals in our shelter and our communities.
 As part of our "Back in Black" promotion, our black and mostly black dogs and cats can be adopted for half-price through the month.  We'll also be having special events at different times throughout the month, so check back often. 

  We  now have our own YouTube channel.  The address is

http://www.YouTube.com/user/GOODSHEPHERDHUMANE

It may take us a little while to get videos uploaded, but this will be another wonderful way to showcase some of the sweet dogs and cats available at Good Shepherd for adoption.  Hope you all will visit.  I'm working on new video and photos today.

  Don't forget to get your tickets to the 33rd Annual Doggie Style Show! 

    Greetings!!  It's Sunday evening, and it's been an interesting weekend here at the shelter. 
    This weekend in Eureka Springs was the 66th Annual Ozarks Folk Festival, so there were lots of people in town.  Saturday was also "National Pit Bull Awareness" day.  Tanya Seabaugh, one of our board members, organized a booth downtown at Basin Spring Park, and with the help of some wonderful Good Shepherd members (Trella, Marie, Nan & Dave, and others), organized a group to walk shelter dogs in the Folk Festival Parade.  According to my sources, a fabulous time was had by all--including our dogs Bali, Paco, Trouble, Amber, Peaches, and Sandy.  For some of our dogs, this was a first for them.  Little Bali has been here at the shelter since she was 3 months old and had never been away from here in the year she's been with us.  Trella  and Marie both said she did terrific in the parade--her only problem was a wee bit of carsickness coming back to the shelter.  I am so thankful to all the folks who made the event on Saturday a success!  Tanya gave away lots of literature and information, and we collected donations for a raffle basket of dog goodies, so we even made a little money for the dogs.  If you're reading this and feeling really sad for missing all the fun, don't despair!  The Eureka Springs and Berryville Christmas parades are fast approaching, and we'll be looking for people who want to join us for all the fun!!!
  Another don't miss event is fast upon us--the 33rd Annual Doggie Style Show!  It's returning to the Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center this year, and it's going to be bigger and better than ever!  Lots of fun things to see and do, lots of good shopping.  Get a head start (and save some dough) on your Christmas list and benefit the dogs and cats of Good Shepherd Humane Society.  Tickets are $12.00 in advance--$15.00 the day of the event, and tickets are available at either thrift store, the shelter, or on-line.  Don't miss out on the fun this year!! We're counting on you!!!!!

Update on the new "teenage" feline house

    Good morning!  As some of you know, the shelter is always overflowing with cats and dogs.  This past year has been especially difficult for cats.  Since we didn't have any extra space in our main building itself, and at this time remodeling is not possible, we came up with an alternative.  We did have space on the grounds for a portable building, and we received some terrific donations to pay for renovating the structure for a cat colony house.
    After a somewhat slow start, I have finally gotten electricians and a handyman here to help us with the final product.  In the last two weeks, the building has been electrified, the insulation, drywall, and painting are done, and the new doors and flooring ordered.  Paul Kelly, (husband of GSHS's own Tracellen Kelly, our thrift store manager extraordinaire!) has done a beautiful job finishing out the inside of the building. He also designed and built in ramps and shelving so that cats can climb, runaround and play.  I know my own cats would love to have a shelf running around my house!  We all agree the cats are going to love it.
    There's still some work to be done, but I am optimistic that we will have our "teens" settled in the new house before the Doggie Style Show on November 19th.  Having this new facility will not increase the number of cats we can house, but it will provide a better living environment for cats than the kennels, and it will also allow us to finally keep our intake isolation and sick quarantine rooms separate.  Our goal is to be able to improve the health and care of our cats.
  Once the unit is ready for occupancy, I plan to host an Open House and let folks come see this shiny new space.  I think everyone will be quite pleased.  This project would not be possible without the support of many, many people, including our wonderful Board of Directors, our financial supporters, and Good Shepherd members.  Thanks to everyone!
 
    Speaking of cats, I'd like to introduce you to two of our resident cats. 

First, meet Holly.  Holly is a beautiful girl, but she is quite an independent lady!  She is definitely the queen of cats, and she would prefer to be in a home where she could adored (translated--she doesn't  play well with other kitties.)  Holly loves people, especially kids, She was a hit with the 4th, 5th, and 6th graders from Clear Springs School when the kids came to the shelter to volunteer.  Holly would love to find her forever family.  She's been with us here since January 1, 2011.

This next girl is Samantha.  Sam came to the shelter on July 12, an owner surrender.  She is a senior at 14 years old, and she had a bad case of fleas and flea related issues.  However, with a little treatment and TLC, she has done fabulous!  Other than the fleas, she was in excellent health.  As you can see, she loves to be petted, or scratched under the chin.  She's a little timid when you first approach her, but that's because she is shy!  Samantha would be an excellent companion for someone who wants company.  She is not hyperactive--she likes sleeping in her little padded bed, enjoying some sunshine, and getting a rub once in a while.  Samantha would be a great "senior for a senior" if you know anyone looking for an awesome companion.  

  We have lots more wonderful dogs and cats here at Good Shepherd. If you're looking to add a new member to your family, please call or come visit us.  We're open every day from noon until 5 pm except for Wednesdays!  We'd love to show you around.

Hello and welcome to our week at the Good Shepherd Humane Society!

  It's Friday evening and almost time to close for the day.  This is a new venture for me, as I am launching the first set of stories from our animal shelter here in beautiful Eureka Springs, Arkansas. I hope to post a story every week to tell people about all the fun, adventurous, and challenging events taking place in our extraordinarily ordinary animal shelter. 
  It's almost a full moon, and almost Halloween, and the dogs and cats all seem to know it!  We have some adorable live wires in our care.  This afternoon, two of our girls decided to go on a "holiday" for about an hour.  Corina and Caroline are pointer/basset hound mixes.  Both are white with black spots, and they both weigh about 70 pounds.  They have great personalities, and they are usually quite well-behaved, but today, they decided to remove the door from their kennel cage--literally.  They somehow managed to pull the door off the hinges.  They then went roaming about for about an hour, but then they finally decided they were hungry and came trotting back out of the woods!  After drooling all over the staff, the girls went straight to their kennels and munched on dinner.
  While escapes are not a normal event for our shelter,they can happen.  It is always scary, because the dogs--or cats--can get hurt or lost.  Most times a dog escapes by pushing through an outdoor kennel fence or crawling over.  One of our active goals here at the shelter is to raise funds for new outside kennels and to upgrade the kennels in the back of the shelter.  I also have a dream of building a longer dog run, so that the big dogs can get more exercise.
  Check back with us on a regular basis and keep up with all the happenings at Good Shepherd Humane Society.