Keeping dreams alive...                                                                                  October  2012


 

Greetings!    

 

Aaaah, the crisp, vibrant beauty of Fall.

 

Change is in the air once more. It's a great time to get outdoors, witness the rhythms of nature and smell the subtle fragrances of our Indian summer as it comes to a slow close.

 

With Halloween around the corner, the end of daylight savings time on November 4th and elections on the 7th, there's plenty of human activity to alert our senses, particularly as we adjust to the dwindling daylight. Wildlife and pets alike are making their own adjustments too.  

 

While birds migrate to Baja and areas of California, snakes, turtles and other burrowing creatures are getting ready for partial hibernation, a natural phenomenon unique to California and other mild winter parts of the world.  

 

With evenings shrouded in darkness, twilight could be the perfect opportunity to share a stroll with your pooch. If your doggie is the type to bark or lunge when it sees other dogs, maybe it's time for her to go back to school.   Our dog training classes involve using rewards and positive reinforcement to provide a happy, healthy and safe environment for you and your canine companion. A reflective leash or collar will help others with excitable dogs to steer clear as well.

 

Enjoy the rest of our Indian summer-and tread safely.

 

Kiska Icard     

Executive Director

Sonoma Humane Society

        

LOOKING FOR FOREVER HOMES     

Adopt Sassy, the Sweetest Shepherd of Silliness 
 
Adopt Sassy, the Sweetest Shepherd of Silliness

 

Meet Cory: Winner of the Cutest Meow Contest

  

Cory
From my early days as a matted mess full of unpleasant hitchhikers, my faith in a positive outcome pulled me through. Many hands and hearts tended to my well-being, nurturing me back to health and happiness--so much so that today, I sometimes stop to sing a sweet song of satisfaction for the goodness in my life. To my surprise, the very happiness I enjoy sharing with humans has made me unique among my feline friends; I'm told I have the cutest meow ever! Not to mention that I'm the epitome of picturesque, Persian peacefulness. And like my meow, I have a sweet, friendly disposition that will resonate rapturously with my new owners--whoever you may be. I know we'll make beautiful music together. More adoptable animals>>>

  

Mango's Tango

Mango

 

Dancing is Silent Poetry.

It starts with a spark of playfulness. Then, a twitch of my tail and a flick of my whiskers-I'm ready to show you my latest dance! Bring your family, bring your neighbors-heck, BYOB. A bit of an audience secretly excites me. Whether I'm dancing with a butterfly or doing my locally famous Mango Tango-I lose myself in delight. I never give a thought to having only one good eye--the way I see it, it makes me more resilient. I'll delight you with my agile antics and magical moves-and then, exhausted, fall upon a comfy chair for a stress-free afternoon snooze...dreaming of mice and fish and what might be in my dish.

Maybe you're wondering-how a dance was named after me? Well, a few months ago when I was born, I was whiskers deep with infections like ear mites and ringworm. As you can see, I even lost one of my eyes on that jeopardous journey. But Dr. Camblor and her team of angels saved my tiny life. I say tiny because I was so small, you could have held me in the palm of your hand that first day I came to the Sonoma Humane Society.   Because of the love and care I received, it was obvious--even with just one eye--that life was worth dancing for. And so I dance.   And I believe dancing is a good kind of contagious. Shall we share the dance of life together? More adoptable animals>>> 

 

 Avast Ye Mateys-I'm Ready for Adventure!

Petey

From my sweet nature and strong bulky frame

I'm told I could be of 'Poster Child' fame.

Many just see a tough looking pooch

But aarggh, my mateys, it's farthest from the truth.

I lick and frolick and though well-behaved,

I'm best with children over six years of age.

You see, I love to please my humans and won't dare barge

When I know that my humans are in charge

For me it's all play-- a romp in the grass or a game of catch

I'm ready when you are--perhaps we're a match?

From the patch on my eye to the tip of my tail

I'm all about waggin' it--so why not set sail?

(p.s. They call me Petey 'cause I'm such a sweetie!)  

 

Warning: My Happiness is Contagious!

 

Bosco

Have you ever imagined a life better than you expected? My happy heart murmurs in contentment whenever a prospective human parent passes along--I have so much love to share with you, it might just blow your socks off.

It goes like this--first you see my black half-mask face...you find yourself intrigued...you're drawn closer, closer...Then you hear my purr...gentle at first, until....you touch me. That's when you feel the warmth of my affectionate purr move from my heart through your hands... Your hand feels warm to the touch...It only takes a few moments to realize that love is in the air-oh, and what a breath of fresh air it is! You and I...taking in a sunset together, listening to music, warming those socks, sharing a bowl of warm pudding... OK, well maybe not the pudding... but I sure would love to spend the rest of my life profusely purring with a forever friend like you! More adoptable animals>>>

HAPPY TAILS    

      

 Undercover Agent

Walter
Walter's Family 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There was a time in my life when I thought no one loved me.

I was found wandering the streets at one point, with no idea that being brought to the Sonoma Humane Society would ultimately bring me to my new family. In fact, Petey and I have a lot in common (he's in the Adoption Section looking for his forever family) because people can sometimes think of us Pit Bulls as being scary or dangerous. But my volunteer pals knew better. They saw me for who I really am-a sweet, gentle, attentive pooch with a huge heart.

 

When my healthiness was confirmed by the warm-hearted team of doctor and nurses here, my tail wagged endlessly! I could tell things were looking up so naturally, I became more hopeful.

 

My attentiveness revealed a secret talent--doing tricks! My confidence soared when I saw how much it delighted people to see me do the old biscuit-on-my- nose trick. Every time I flipped it up in the air and caught it, I heard all sorts of happy sounds coming from my human friends, so I did more! I showed them the 'praying mantis' position I can do with my front paws...I rolled over whenever someone asked, and shook hands with every new human I met.

 

My breed really loves children, and I'm no exception. A stupendous cuddler, one of my favorite things in the world to do is snuggle under the covers. So, in my praying mantis position, I secretly hoped for a family with children who would let me cuddle with them.

 

My dreams were answered when the leaves outside began changing colors. A loving family brought me home with them and today, I'm a real live family member who's doing my part--I've definitely got my humans covered.

 

And guess what? When the stars shine up in the sky, I get to sleep under the covers with my forever family!

 

Wags and dreams,

Walter

Dogs, Goats and Kids--Oh My!

Olympia

 

Part pit-bull, part cattle dog--I was originally considered a 'tough trainee.' But my desire to learn and develop good doggie manners exceeded everyone's expectations--including my own!

 

When my brothers and sisters and I arrived at the Sonoma Humane Society from our foster home, I watched as my litter-mates were adopted one by one, and felt darn lonely when I realized I was the last one. What did they have that I didn't? As I watched people come in and leave with doggies like me who were going to their forever home, it hit me like a flying bone--manners!   Whatever they were, I wanted them.

And that's when my life began to change.

 

There's nothing like having a purpose to aim for.

And boy, was I ready! I mean I was super motivated.

Every day after behavior training, I could feel myself understanding what was being asked of me--and I just knew I could do it. Sit. Stay. Heel. Fetch. Lie down. It's all so easy now...

 

There was a time when those words were as foreign to me as a penguin in the desert...or cheddar cheese from a goat.  

 

But today--at my forever home at Redwood Hill Farm--these human words run through my mind as I lay napping under an oak tree with my new buddy Gypsy, a King Charles Spaniel who plays with me 24/7 when we're not busy helping our family out on the farm.

 

Life at a sustainably certified 500+ goat dairy farm is so interesting! So many new smells--from cheeses and yogurts to fruits of all sorts--all healthy and organic, too. I've learned that goats are as social as us dogs, so when the weather turns windy and rainy, the goats get to roam around and play in huge barns. That's where Gypsy and I will be helping to keep an eye on them.

 

I love my new family and my new doggie playmate.

Gypsy and I--we're a couple of lucky dogs!

From my world to yours, life just doesn't get better than this!

   

Love,

Olympia

 

URGENT: FOSPICE HOMES NEEDED 

When you buy a new car you you get "car fax," with fospice kitties you get "cat fax;";take it from us...low mileage is overrated. We've got a lot to offer if you just look beyond our wear and tear.

Life is Full of Surprises

Willard

Yup, I used to be a real rascal...getting in between all sorts of scuffles--just to try and keep the peace. But if you didn't know my nature as a peacemaker, you might look at me and think that my torn ear, scruffy chin or beauty mark on my nose were all signs of, well, a scrappy troublemaker. Truth is--harmony holds an honorable place in my heart. Once it was worth fighting for--but now, with a few more years of life to share with someone, I realize it's worth LIVING for. You could say I've had a 'golden years resolution' to be a convert of calm--a purveyor of pacifism. The underpinnings of my inherent loyalty, genuine affection, and soul-searching satisfaction with life make me a comforting companion for years to come. You might just be pleasantly surprised.

 

 

150% Daily Interest + Benefits

 

Caliope

I give 150% to everything I do every day. I'm looking for a Foster Parent who is 100% OK with that.

 

Here's what I'm like: Loaded with love, I'll sit on your lap and dote on you like there's no tomorrow. I'll rub, push my head into your hands and purr like well, a big happy cat! When I sleep, I'm out like a light--snoring softly while dreaming that I'm prancing through fields of catnip...a reality TV show couldn't wake me up. Who cares if I'm a little hard of hearing-maybe you are too?  

 

When I eat, I devour my food and love every second of it. When I play, I get into it like my life depends on it--who cares if I'm bit up in years and only batting with one paw? I'm still having fun! 10's a perfect age in my eyes, and besides, I've got plenty of years to go to share my affection with you.

 

And now for the math: An investment in my love guarantees you the daily rewards of affection and companionship for many years to come.   If you think you could be the Foster parent / family who understands that REAL benefits are intangible, then we've got some rewards to reap together. 

 

The Magic of 13

Kitto

The moon travels 13 degrees across the sky each day and there are 13 lunar cycles in a solar year. 13 represents the most elegant and compact recurring pattern in nature, representing the balance point between earth and cosmos. Now what does this have to do with a cat, you might ask?  

 

Well, having traveled around the sun 13 times in my life, I think I can lay claim to this special number too. I see beyond the day-to-day and at the same time, am enchanted by the present. My captivating eyes and serene purr will bewitch your senses. Quiet and alert, my deft mousing skills will keep your home rodent-free and best of all, my ever-present companionship will bring harmony and balance to your heart for years to come. Could I be your silent partner?

 

SONOMA HUMANE SOCIETY'S
VETERINARY HOSPITAL


Pssst...pass it on.....

Sonoma County's Best Kept Secret

Angela Ortiz  RVT with
The Sonoma Humane Society Veterinary Hospital

It's the heart of our work in the world.

 

Sonoma Humane Society's Veterinary Hospital is a full-service vet hospital open to the public six days a week. In fact, we're the only non-profit veterinary hospital in all of Sonoma County that gives all of its proceeds to shelter animal care.

 

This innovative hospital delivers all types of surgical procedures-including dental hygiene, radiology and diagnostic testing in addition to regular exams and health check-ups-- and we are open to the public! Whether your animals have been adopted here or not, our doors are open to care for your pet.

 

Word is getting out, so make an appointment today. Your family's well-being is our top priority.

 

   

SCRATCHING POST

You scratched our backs, let us scratch yours! (Recognizing special donations)

 

Wags, Whiskers & Wine Gala Captured on Film  

Photo by K2B Creative 

How do we capture hearts at our annual Gala event? With amazing images captured by Kate Burgess of K2BCreative. Check out their website, you may want to capture your upcoming event. To view Kate's ability to capture your own heartfelt moments see  K2BWeddings. 

    

 

Paws for Bingo 

What has 280 legs, eats 140 plates of pasta and then hopes to have a blackout? The guests at Paws for Bingo! Many thanks to everyone who made Paws for Bingo such a great afternoon and successful fundraiser. The sold-out event included 7 rounds of Bingo, live and silent auctions, lots of prizes and a terrific lunch. Best part of it all? It raised more than $10,000 to help enhance the lives and increase adoptions for animals at the Sonoma Humane Society. A very grateful thank you goes to Charlotte Pearce, Affinity Pet Services, and Victoria Denning, (Paws Plus, Nanny for your Pets,) who created and hosted the event, and all the scrumptious treats provided by Christine's Kitchen!

 

   

 

 


EVENTS

 

What the Howl?  

 

No Howl-o-ween event at the Sonoma Humane Society this year? It's no trick - It's true. The Sonoma Humane Society is taking the year off and lining up a real treat for 2013. If you're looking for a dress-up opportunity for you and your pets this year, click here for listings of other safe and spooky events! 

 

 

Santa Paws Pet Photos  

 

Still believe in Santa? When you bring your pet here to get their photo taken with Santa, you keep the dream of a forever home alive for the animals of the Sonoma Humane Society.   

 



2013 CALENDARS AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 1st!!

Don't miss our best calendar to date available at the Sonoma Humane Society's Paws to Shop November 1st! A special thanks to Sybilla Herbrich of  Studio Bark and Willam Duke for volunteering their incredible talents to benefit the animals of the Sonoma Humane Society.  And let's not forget the folks at  KZST for putting on the contest and reminding their listeners to vote! 



Tips from the Vet 

Christi Camblor, DVM, is the shelter medical director for the Sonoma Humane Society, and is also co-founder of the international animal welfare organization, Compassion Without Borders.

Cool Weather Considerations 
1. Keep your cat inside. This is important year round, but especially in the winter when cats can become way too chilled and suffer from hypothermia. Other dangers to outdoor cats include them getting lost or stolen, getting hit by a car or getting attacked by other animals. 

2. Check your hood! Cats often curl up under the hoods of cars when the weather is chilly. If there are cats living outdoors in your area, give a bang on the car hood before climbing in to give the cat a chance to climb out and be out of harm's way. 

3. Let it grow. Winter is not the time to clip down your pet's coat, which can provide much needed warmth. If you have a short coated pet, get him or her a comfortable, warm sweater or jacket for those chilly walks and times outside. 

4. Don't leave your pet in the car. As in the hot summer, it is never a good idea to leave your pet alone in the car during cold weather. Temperatures can become dangerously low in parked cars and are unsafe for your dog or cat. 

5. Younger animals do not tolerate weather extremes as well as adults, so extra precautions must be taken to ensure they are safe and warm. Never leave them outside without access to a protected, sheltered area and be sure to provide them with lots of warm bedding. 

6. Beware of antifreeze! Antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Visit the
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center more information.
TELL YOUR FRIENDS!
 
SpayPAL: Low Cost Cat Spay/Neuter program for Sonoma County residents.   

  

Thanks to a generous grant from the Salatko Animal Welfare Fund of Community Foundation Sonoma County, we are now able to offer low cost services. All cat spay/neuter surgeries are just $30 and include a free rabies vaccine. Surgeries are offered by appointment at the Sonoma Humane Society's Spay/Neuter Clinic. 

catsandkittens

   

Please remember, spaying or neutering your cat has many benefits including reduction of unwanted births and the influence of hormones on your pet's behavior. Unspayed and unneutered cats are responsible for hundreds of unwanted and abandoned kittens every year. Some of these animals find homes but many more end up in shelters, or on the street, where they face a very uncertain future. By spaying or neutering your cat, you do your part to prevent feline over-population and suffering.

 

Please call (800) 427-7973 to schedule your appointment and help us spread the word!

 

Gooood Dog!

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER

DOG AND PUPPY TRAINING SERIES

 

Bond at both ends of the leash with our group training classes for beginner to advanced stages. Or book a private lesson and consultation training bestof the baywith our trainers.  

The Sonoma Humane Society Dog and Puppy Training classes are based on rewards and positive reinforcement providing a safe, happy and healthy environment for you and your canine companion. Each class is 6 sessions. Register now!   

For schedule of classes  

and further information,
click here.
   

 

 

 

OLIVER'S COMMUNITY CARD   
Support our local market and they support the Sonoma Humane Society

Oliver's will donate up to 5% of your purchase (any day, any store) when you show your Oliver's Community Card at checkout. You can pay any way you want.  Just complete the short registration form, take it to any Oliver's checkstand and get your new Community Card. When you support them, they support us! 

 

In This Issue
Special Faces
Urgent Help Needed
Our Public Veterinary Hospital
Scratching Post
Events
2013 Calendars
Winter Camp Registration
Tips from the Vet
Low Cost Cat Spay/Neuter

    Tail Waggin'     

Mobile Adoptions

October

 

27th Adoption event at Frizelle-Enos Feed Store;
265 Petaluma Avenue,
Sebastopol 12-3pm
  

 

November   

 

17th Santa Paws Pet Photos; Sonoma Humane Society, 5435 Hwy 12 West,  
Santa Rosa 11-2pm

 

Donate Your Vehicle  Help homeless animals by donating your vehicle (car, boat, trailer, etc.)

  " I didn't think our car was worth anything! I called the Sonoma Humane Society's Car Donation Program and could not be happier. It was super easy and I'm astonished to learn that over $3,000 was raised by my donation."

-DeDe; SHS Volunteer

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO 
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The Sonoma Humane Society never shares any contact information, including email addresses, with other organizations.
Your privacy is always protected and very important to us.
 
Sonoma Humane Society
PO Box 1296
5345 Hwy 12 West, Santa Rosa, CA 95407
 Tel: (707) 542-0882 * Fax: (707) 542-1317 * www.SonomaHumane.org