| Eskie Scoops
The Official Newsletter for Eskie Rescuers United (ERU) |
| Issue No. 7 |
November/December 2008 Holiday Edition |
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Ask the Eskie
Dear Gus,
I am a middle-aged person who just adopted a young Eskie (1-2 year old female). I have not had a puppy in many years and I am amazed at her energy level! She is spinning in circles, tugging on clothing, and generally running circles around us!
My question is, "is this typical Eskie puppy behavior?" She seems to have abrupt mood-swings where she is quiet and respectful one minute, and wild and crazy the next? It is hard to tell what brings on these changes.
Do you have any recommendations for calming her down when she gets crazy? We thought that tiring her out by playing tug-of-war, etc. might do it, but it seems to make her even crazier.
Dizzy in Maryland
Well, what you have discovered is indeed very common in with Eskies. We tend to retain our puppy energy level until about 2 years of age! Here are some suggestions that might help calm your pup down.
First of all, you are correct that exercise is the best way to expend some of your pup's energy, so don't give up on that! Maybe a long walk would be a good alternative to playing tug-of-war which seems to rile up your pup even more!
After your exercise, or playing with your dog, you need to indicate to your dog that it is Calm time. Hold your dog still while saying the word "Calm" or "Calm down." If your dog stays still, reward her for her behavior. Continue practicing the calm command until she can calm herself when the command is given. You could also try massaging your dog to calm her down. She will want to lay down and relax to enjoy the massage!
One other suggestion to calm her down, try filling a Kong toy with peanut butter. This will keep your dog mentally and physically busy allowing her to have time to calm down.
Your pup will lose some of the puppyish behavior with time, but can still be trained to calm down so you can relax as well!
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Vacation Fundraiser!
ERU has had a week's vacation donated to the rescue! What a great way to support our rescue group and possibly take a vaction too!
The vacation was donated with the hope of raising money to help replenish our medical funds, which are very depleted. We will be featuring stories throughout the raffle of dogs that have benefited from additional medical attention - above and beyond normal vetting. Please donate and help us to continue to help those who, otherwise, would be put down.
Our first featured story is Shiloh's Story below. Additional stories will be added to the website as the raffle continues, so make sure to visit often to hear about these dogs and their second chance at a great life!
7 nites in the "Theme Park Capitol of the World!"
Click above banner for more details ... | |
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| Contact Us |
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P.O. Box 8652
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52408-8652
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| ERU thanks the following clinics and other businesses for their commitment to rescue and for providing us with discounted services in October and November!
Cherry Hills Vet, Centennial, CO
Community Animal Hospital, Randallstown, MD
Dakota Pet Hospital,
Lakeville, MN
Fetchers Dog Care,
Denver, CO
Petroglyph Animal Hospital, Albuquerque, NM
VCA Wellington Animal Hospital, Noblesville, IN
Veterinary Opthamology Clinic, Catonsville, MD
Waugh Chapel Animal Hospital,
Grambrills, MD |
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ERU Holiday Cards - Limited Edition 
For the first time, ERU has, available for purchase, Holiday Cards featuring four different designs inspired by ERU reskies. Each set contains 12 cards (four designs x three cards each) and 12 envelopes for $20 + actual shipping costs. We were only able to produce 150 sets so order yours now at www.eskierescuers.org. $5.70 of each set can be counted as a donation toward ERU. For more information contact Heidi@eskierescuers.org.
Thank you for your support! | |
Adoptable Eskies in the Spotlight
For more information on these dogs, click on their picture to visit their complete profile.Or, visit www.eskierescuers.org to see many more. |
Patsy
Hello, my name is Patsy and I've been rescued from a shelter and am currently being fostered in Hartsville, TN. I'm a super sweet 8 year old girl who is well adjusted and have very nice manners! I would be great in a house with children and all kinds of people. Won't you please consider giving me a home for the holidays? I would be ever so grateful! |
Fluffy of Colorado
Hi there. My name Fluffy and I'm currently living in Denver, Colorado. I was rescued from a shelter am would love to find my new forever home. My prior home took me to the shelter because when the grandkids opened the front door, I kept running away. Well, the door WAS open! Anyway, it takes a while to get to know me as I'm a bit standoffish when you first meet me. But all I really want is a new home where I can finally settle in and love my people forever. Could that be you? | |
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Fundraising Update
ERU's holiday cards are on the website and are ready to ship! Even if you don't mail cards you can attach them to gifts, put gift certificates in them, or use them as stocking stuffers. They are only $20 for a set of 12 cards with envelopes and shipping is minimal (actual cost). There is a special PayPal button to use for the cards. Order yours now at www.eskierescuers.org!
With the holidays coming up, there are several easy ways to donate to ERU with no additional cost to you! Online shoppers can select ERU to benefit from online purchases they make. Go to www.GoodShop.com or www.IGive.com and be sure Eskie Rescuers United is selected as your charity. Shopping through IGive.com will allow ERU to get 5-8% of every purchase you make! That adds up quickly! You can shop from many stores such as Kohl's, WalMart, Best Buy, Barnes & Noble, Target, Amazon, Home Depot, Circuit City, and L.L. Bean, just to name a few.
Also be sure you are using GoodSearch when surfing the internet and that ERU is selected as your charity. For each search, ERU earns a penny (images, video and site-specific searches do not qualify.) Be sure to tell your friends, family and coworkers about GoodShop, IGive and GoodSearch too! Remember, these are donations you can make without paying any extra cost to you!
On December 13th, ERU volunteers in Colorado are hosting a fundraising Holiday Open house at a local firehouse. Hot chocolate, coffee and cookies will be served and Santa will be there to make it a fun day. The volunteers are embroidering some stockings, bandanas and blankets with pet's names to sell at the event. They will also have several items to raffle and they will sell some pet gift baskets too. Let's wish them good luck and hope they have a successful and fun day! |
ERU Volunteer of the Month
Jennifer Strube
 Hi, my name is Jennifer Strube, I live in Mukwonago, Wisconsin. I have been a volunteer with ERU for a little over a year and a half now. My husband and I adopted our first Eskie from ERU in early 2004. We drove all the way to New Orleans on Mardi Gras weekend to pick her up. Her name is Athena, she was living at a truck stop in Mobile, AL before she was rescued by ERU! We fell madly in love with her the second we saw her! She is a fantastic dog and a great playmate for our Beagle, Bella. Since we had two little girl dogs and I decided I wanted a boy. Once again I found myself on the ERU website! Wanda, who was a director at the time, sent me a picture of a boy named Glacier. He was located in Rockford, IL. He had been found living on his own in the tough streets of Chicago! My husband and I fell in love with the picture and that was it -Glacier was ours!! We picked him up, and man, were we ever in for it. He is the most rambunctious, high energy boy!!! He's a larger Eskie, about 40 lbs. Everyone that meets him wants to take him from us. He is such a fabulous dog! I took about a year and a half off from adopting dogs to have 2 little boys of my own. Dylan was born July 2005 and Carson was born September 2006. Then, once again I found myself looking for another dog. I know - I know - like I didn't already have enough to do! I wanted another male dog and this time we came across Cubby Bear, who is a Shiba Inu, American Eskimo mix. We adopted him in November 2006. He has a little bit more of a fox looking face than the pure Eskies do. Once again, another fantastic dog from ERU!! A little further down the road I wanted a lap dog, so I threw in 2 Pomeranians to the mix! Now we are up to 2 skin kids and 6 fur kids!
When I first started volunteering, I was responding to the ERU directors mail one day a week. Let me tell you, it is the best way to get a really good idea of what goes on in a rescue! Roxanne Goeltz took me under her wing and was very supportive on the days that I was in tears. I cried for the dogs that we could help and even more for the ones that we couldn't! I soon started to feel guilty that I was begging other volunteers to take in shelter dogs and owner surrenders and I was not doing it myself. So, I filled out the application to become a foster home. There are few things more fulfilling AND gut wrenching than saying goodbye to your fosters. Deborah Guske gave me some great advice: first, that it is NOT my dog and second, that there will be many more to come! I have had quite a few short term fosters since then and currently I have Tymone and Pumba. They will finally be going to their long awaited forever home the first weekend in December! Adopting a rescued dog from this organization was one of the best things I've ever done. It helped me to find one of my true callings in life!
Jennifer Strube |
 Shiloh's Story
Told by Roxanne Goeltz 
I sit in the cage at the shelter day after day and I just do not understand what is wrong? I am only 7 months old, and usually a cute puppy like me would be adopted right away!
I am very friendly to the people who come to visit me, and if I don't mind saying so myself, I am soooo cute! I'm not perfect - I have a bit of a yellow bum and when the families ask about it their faces change and they look sad and say "Oh, that is too bad."
You see I leak urine and everyone thinks it is because I am not trained. I wish I could tell them I try really hard to hold it. I don't like sitting in the wet either but hard as I try it just comes out. It has been this way my whole life! When I was a puppy, my mom would lick me and keep me clean all the time. Then a man took me away from her and he brought me to this horrible shelter and my mom did not come any more to help keep me clean.
There was a nice lady who adopted me and took me home with her. I tried really hard but since I have no control over the leaking, she brought me back to the shelter.
Some nice people at the shelter started talking about contacting a rescue, they called it ERU. It sounded so great and I was so excited as I waited and waited, hoping ERU would be able to help me! Then one day - just before they were going to take me to that room where the dogs never come back from - a woman came and took me to a different kennel. They looked at me and gave me some medication for incontinence. I heard them say there were some tests that could be done and if it was what they expected surgery could be done to fix me! I also heard them say it was EXPENSIVE! I saw those sad faces again and heard them say that is too bad.
Suddenly a wonderful couple showed up and put a diaper on me and I went on a long car ride. Oh my gosh, it was so thrilling to be out of the shelter!! I was taken to another family that has kids. I was a bit overwhelmed at first but then settled in. The diaper thing seemed to make them happy that I did not leak on the floor.
After a while, the family took me to a special clinic where I had something called an ultrasound. There was news as to why I always leaked! One of my kidneys was malformed. The tube that usually takes urine to the bladder where I can hold it until I am outside went straight to my vagina so it leaked all the time. Finally, some answers!! They said it could be genetic or it could have been damage to the blood vessels when the kidney was forming. But no matter the cause, the good news was the other kidney was good and functioning normally so all they had to do was remove the bad one and then I would be TRAINABLE and leak free!
The nice surgeon donated half his fee and the other costs were discounted as well, but it still cost the wonderful rescue group that saved my life close to $2000.00! Would you please help ERU replenish their medical funds so other Eskies such as myself who would normally go to the room of no return can have a chance? My name is Shiloh and I thank you ERU for saving me and helping me find my forever home!
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| Are you Ready to Become a Foster? - Part 3 in a 3 part article
Part 1 of this article ran in September's edition, Part 2 in October.
Written by Melissa Bahleda, M.A.T, C.B.C
Are you Prepared to say Goodbye?
Some of my foster dogs are with me for days; some are with me for months. And yes, there have been one or two who have just fit so well into our lives, our hearts, and our home that they have attained status as one of our permanent pets.
It's important to remember, however, that fostering should not be viewed as a "trial adoption." Anyone who fosters must be realistic about the expected outcome: that the animal will be adopted by another family. While it is impossible not to become attached to a sweet dog or cat living in your home, it's necessary to keep your original goals in mind and remain committed to finding the animal a new family.
Although I exercise and socialize my foster dogs with my own dogs every day, I also plan "Mom Time" activities solely for my own dogs. Not only does this soothe relations between the temporary and permanent members of my canine family; it also helps me keep "my pets" mentally separated from "my foster pets" so the level of attachment I experience with both sets of dogs remains different, and the line between the two does not become blurred.
I have met foster families who became too emotionally attached to part with their foster pets, even when great homes were available and waiting. Think of it this way: For each pet who is adopted by his foster family, one fewer "foster opportunity" exists, which translates into fewer animals being given a wonderful chance at live in a real home. If you find it hard to say goodbye, imagine how happy your foster pet will be in his or her new home - and remember how you helped make that happen.
What if it Doesn't Work Out?
If you have decided that fostering is right for you and feel prepared for the experience, you may still encounter obstacles to a positive outcome for your foster pet. These may include unknown behavior problems that are difficult to modify; illness; injury or unexpected death; the foster pet's non-acceptance of pets already in the household (even after a reasonable acclimation period); or existing pets' non-acceptance of the foster pet.
Because dogs and cats passed from home to home or repeatedly returned to the shelter tend to suffer from bonding and behavioral problems, you must be willing to allow a significant amount of time and training in areas of housetraining, crate training, leash training, and basic obedience.
But if your foster pet has been given ample time to adjust to your home (usually two to six weeks) and still seems anxious, becomes aggressive, or suffers from any significant behavior or health issues, talk to the staff at your shelter or consult a veterinarian, trainer, or recommended behavior counselor. Serious health or behavior problems may require the attention of a veterinarian or professional trainer. Never be embarrassed to ask for help.
Accidents can happen as well. No matter how conscientious you are, dogs and cats can escape, become injured, or even die. Talk to the staff at your shelter about the possibilities before you bring an animal home, and make sure the shelter you are working with allows you to sign documents outlining and clarifying expectations, requirements, and liability issues before the animal is put into your care. |
A Rescue Dog's Christmas Poem
Tis the night before Christmas and all through the town,
every shelter is full - we are lost, but not found,
Our numbers are hung on our kennels so bare,
we hope every minute that someone will care,
They'll come to adopt us and give us the call,
"Come here, Max and Sparkie - come fetch your new ball!!
But now we sit here and think of the days...
we were treated so fondly - we had cute, baby ways,
Once we were little, then we grew and we grew
now we're no longer young and we're no longer new.
So out the back door we were thrown like the trash,
they reacted so quickly - why were they so rash?
We "jump on the children:, "don't come when they call",
we "bark when they leave us", climb over the wall.
We should have been neutered, we should have been spayed,
now we suffer the consequence of the errors THEY made.
If only they'd trained us, if only we knew...
we'd have done what they asked us and worshiped them, too.
We were left in the backyard, or worse -let to roam-
now we're tired and lonely and out of a home.
They dropped us off here and they kissed us good-bye...
"Maybe someone else will give you a try."
So now here we are, all confused and alone...
in a shelter with others who long for a home.
The kind workers come through with a meal and a pat,
with so many to care for, they can't stay to chat,
They move to the next kennel, giving each of us cheer...
we know that they wonder how long we'll be here.
We lay down to sleep and sweet dreams fill our heads...
of a home filled with love and our own cozy beds.
Then we wake to see sad eyes, brimming with tears -
our friends filled with emptiness, worry, and fear.
If you can't adopt us and there's no room at the Inn -
could you help with the bills and fill our food bin?
We count on your kindness each day of the year -
can you give more than hope to everyone here?
Please make a donation to pay for the heat...
and help get us something special to eat.
The rescue that cares for us wants us to live,
and more of us will, if more people will give.
--Author Unknown |
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Sponsorship Opportunities Look for our stories and how you can help us at www.eskierescuers.org under the Sponsor Eskies tab!
Yogi Julia Quedo
  
Heidee Jewel Buddy of IL
Sadie Sam the Man Hero
Baylor Sasha Mitzie
Bradley Shiloh
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Keeping your Pet Safe From Holiday Hazards
Be sure to make this holiday season safe and enjoyable for everyone in your family by observing the following pet safety tips:
- If you have a live Christmas tree, keep the water stand covered. Pine sap mixed with water makes a poisonous drink for your pet. The smell of a live or artificial tree may cause your pet to urine-mark it. It may help to bring the tree into an isolated indoor room for a day or so so that it smells more like "home."
- Pick up any ornament hooks, tinsel or ribbon that fall on the floor. Your pet could experience serious internal injuries if he ingests any of these items.
- If you have a cat that is tempted to play with the ornaments on your tree, decorate the bottom third of the tree with non-breakable, plastic or wooden ornaments, or decorate only the top two-thirds of your tree.
- Don't feed your pet rich, fatty, or spicy people food. Instead add a teaspoon of white meat or broth from holiday dinner to your pet's food. Keep holiday treats and candies out of your pet's reach. Additionally, remember wrapped gifts under your tree that may be food items. People food, especially in excess, can make your pet sick. Chocolate, onions, raisins, and alcohol can be fatal to dogs!
- Secure Christmas trees to a wall or ceiling hook with sturdy fishing line. This will help prevent the tree from toppling over should your pet jump on it or accidentally knock it over.
- If you have indoor holiday lights, be sure they don't hang so low that your pet could become entangled in them. Remember to unplug the lights when you're not home to supervise your pet.
- If you have a bird, make sure she is safely in her cage if you are lighting any candles. Additionally, lit candles should be kept out of any pet's reach, perhaps high on a counter or table.
- Poinsettias, mistletoe berries and some other popular holiday plants, if ingested, can cause serious stomach upset for pets. Check with your veterinarian for local poison control center to find out what holiday plans and flowers you need to keep out of your pet's reach.
2003 Dumb Friends League. All Rights Reserved. |
Memorials to Those Who Will Live in Our Hearts Forever
 My beloved Sparkle passed away Nov. 14th. She stayed with me a long time to be a senior with bladder cancer. In the SHORT time I got to love her and receive her love, she wrapped my heart completely around her paw.
She is going to be greatly missed by all of us - Pepe her brother,
Mish her sister, her daddy and me! She truly was a very SPECIAL
little girl. Even though my heart is breaking I am glad she passed
here at home and didn't suffer and have to be put down. I thank God for watching over us and blessing me with him making the decision. He knows how much I love her and how much I am going to miss her.
Sparkle is the reason I am in rescue today and have helped save many others. I want to give back for all that helped save Sparkle and giving me a chance to love her. So through my tears I am writing to let whoever might want to know that she is at Rainbow Bridge!
S -- Sweet. She was as sweet as any Eskie could ever be!
P -- Precious. She was precious like a fragile opal!
A -- Adorable. She was so dang adorable you just had to love her!
R -- Regal. She was regal like Princess Diana!
AK -- Kissable. She was so Drang kissable! Couldn't resist!
AL -- Loving. She was loving! She gave and received love everyday!
E -- Enjoyable. She was truly a joy!
She was all this and so much more!!!! My heart is breaking to think I can't reach out and pet her cute little round head with fur as soft as baby's skin. Love on your babies everyday!
With a breaking heart, Marketta
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DONATIONS * MEMORIALS * SPECIAL GIFTS
Please consider making a contribution to Eskies Rescuers United (ERU) rescue group. Contributions can be made to commemorate an occasion, in memory of an individual or pet, or to sponsor a pet, please complete the fields below and mail to ERU, P.O. Box 8652, Cedar Rapids, IA 52408. You can also simply click on the PayPal link and make your donation and special request there. Your contributions are essential to allow the rescue group to continue saving the dogs!
This gift is:
___In Memory of (Animal) ______________________ (Human) __________________________
___In Honor of (Animal ) _______________________ (Human) __________________________
___For the special occasion of ___________________________
___Sponsor a pet (Pet name) _____________________________
___Enclosed is my Monthly Pledge _________________________
Name: _______________________________________________________
Street: _______________________________________________________
City: ________________ State: _____________ Zip: ________________
Phone: _______________________ Email: ___________________________
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We would love to have your contributions to the newsletter! If you have an article (or an idea for an article) you would like to contribute to the newsletter, please contact Chris at ChrisB@eskierescuers.org. | |
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