Adopt - Don’t Shop

By MMDR


By adopting and not shopping you can help end puppy mill and back yard breeders and help control the pet population and well being of our animals. Both types are operations are listed below as well as ways that you can help those that cannot help themselves.

Puppy Mills

Puppy mills are over crowded, high volume dog-breeding operations that usually focuses on rapidly producing pure bred puppies in dreadful conditions. These puppies are victim to inadequate health conditions, insufficient animal care and poor socialization. Puppy mills lead to unhealthy puppies with genetic and hereditary health defects. There are also a lot of misrepresented certificates and pedigrees attached to puppies from mills - which is illegal. These dogs are considered objects and are bred purely for profit – their well being is not considered; many are diseased and extremely unhealthy. All puppy mills partake in force breeding practices and most do not allow dogs to leave their kennel or crate at any time. Mostly, puppy mills sell to pet stores through a puppy broker. Some sell directly to the public but these conditions are typically hidden from potential buyers. Unfortunately, puppy mills are not illegal in Canada. The government does not regulate breeder so there are few instances where puppy mills are shut down by government authorities. What can you do to help stop puppy mills in Canada?

-          If you witness animal cruelty or a puppy mill report it to the SPCA, local dog rescues or local human society 

-          Do not support any pet store that sells puppies – majority of puppies sold in stores come from puppy mills

-          Consider adopting a dog or puppy rather than purchasing from a pet store or back yard breeder

-          Spread the word about puppy mills and where pet store puppies usually come from

Backyard Breeders

Backyard breeders are a major contributor of pet over population. Often, when puppies are purchased from back yard breeder they end up in pounds, rescues or set into the wild to reproduce with other feral dogs. These breeders are usually uneducated regarding proper breeding practices. Many consumers go to backyard breeders for a pure bred dog of their choice. These breeders make significant money off these consumers, many times selling genetically flawed and often unhealthy puppies. They breed dogs that have undetermined health problems and do not offer support once the dog is purchased. Many pure bred puppies from these breeders have allergies and other health problems – leading to costly vet bills and untimely death of the dog that you have grown to love.  How can you help eliminate back yard breeders?

-          Chose to adopt from a rescue or shelter and do not purchase a puppy from these breeders

-          Educate your friends and family of the effects and outcomes of purchasing from back yard breeders

Adopting Instead of Shopping

By adopting a puppy or dog you will contribute to fixing the major pet over population problem that Canada is faced with. You will also be giving a deserving dog a chance at the life that he or she deserves. In addition, by adopting you will be giving a chance to another dog to come into the rescue or shelter that you adopted from. Manitoba Mutts has a variety of different puppies and dogs of all ages ready for adoption, and ready to complete your family. By adopting and not supporting puppy mills and back yard breeders you will help put them out a business, in turn, helping those that do not have a voice.

Check out our website to see our adorable adoptable puppies and dogs:

Website: http://www.manitobamutts.org/
Find us on Facebook" http://www.facebook.com/pages/Manitoba-Mutts-Dog-Rescue/100886716655340

Follow us on Twitter @ManitobaMutts https://twitter.com/#!/ManitobaMutts

For more information on Canadian Puppy Mills visit:

http://www.nopuppymillscanada.ca/byb.htm

http://shutdownpuppymills.ca/canadian-laws/

Why our adopters chose to adopt and not to shop: 

"Every dog deserves a loving home, whether they come from rescues, puppy mills or back yard breeders. Unfortunately, we would't need to be rescuing so many dogs if it weren't for these puppy mills and breeders that are only interested in making a buck. There are more than enough animals in this world in need of a good home without bringing more in. That's why adopting not shopping may some day put an end to these "businesses!" At least that's the plan in a perfect world." - Jean M.

"Because the life that fate left on my doorstep was equal in value to any other... because adopting lessens the suffering in the world and shopping contributes to it." - Jennie D.

"Main reason: Shopping supports puppy mills and back yard breeders."
Tracy K.

Sandy's Inner Strength - Making Recovery Possible

By Rochelle Dickson

For the past year my partner, Jared and I have been discussing adopting a dog. We knew we wanted an older dog as we wanted to avoid puppy training. We also wanted our new addition to be good with other dogs, be well mannered and like to go for long walks. A six foot fence was also built in our backyard in hopes to bring home a furry friend. We began looking more seriously in July 2011 and followed Manitoba Mutts, Darcy’s A.R.C and the Humane Society. When we saw Sandy’s picture and bio on Manitoba Mutts we were instantly drawn to her. She was the perfect age, size and was absolutely beautiful! I filled out an adoption application and met her two days later.

I still remember that day, it was November 22^nd and we were full of anticipation. We met her that night and immediately fell in love with her. She hoped into our car and was completely settled in within a few days – we think she decided to adopt us! Sandy was a bit overweight but the veterinarian gave her a good bill of health, she was a happy dog and loved to run.

In the new year Sandy started having trouble with her hips and is now treated with injections for her mild arthritis. She was still the happiest dog in the world until March 28^th of this year. We were looking into obedience schools for her to help overcome her aggression towards other dogs when something happened. She was outside with Jared and jumped off the deck as she usually days. When I got home I noticed that she was sitting on the steps very oddly and was side stepping when she walked. At first we thought she pulled her muscle but it became worse as the night went on. We rushed her to Pembina Animal Hospital; she could not longer use the left side of her body. She went through a series of x-rays and was unable to stand. Sandy stayed at the hospital until Saturday, and was sent home diagnosed with ischemic myelopathy.

We had not heard of it before, and had a lot of research to do in terms of finding slings and other physiotherapy procedures for paralysed dogs. We were informed that as long as she retained pain in her paws, then it would be likely to recover some movement in those legs.We each took a week off to work with her for the best recovery, and to help manage her urination and excretion as the steroids she was on made her unregulated. We were running out of ideas on balancing her care and being able to go back to work. In the two weeks she had managed to recover her left front legs, and some control on her left hind. I sent out emails to numerous animal hospitals, kennels, and day cares, hoping that someone would be able to handle and care for our little paralysed Sandy.

Sprockett's Doggy Day Camp contacted us back on Monday, April 16^th and we set up an appointment for the following morning. Theresa runs the day camp, and after seeing the facility I was very comfortable leaving Sandy in her extraordinary care (it also helped that Theresa and I both were part of the Canadian Pony Club, so I knew her growing up).

Sandy has since recovered the abilities to sit up by herself, wiggle around, belly scoot to all the places she wishes to go to. She is also able to stand up with only minor assistance and recently, began to walk with help balancing her hind end. The atrophy (muscle loss) in her hind end due to the paralysis is one of her biggest obstacles, but with Theresa amazing care, we feel fully confident she will make almost a full recovery. She may not have the full sensation and control over all, her right front wrist is still slow to respond, but it doesn't stop her!

Sandy throughout has been true to herself, barking at birds, going crazy for rawhide, as well as loving to cuddle. Her overly positive attitude, and dedication to getting better and being happy has been able to keep us staying positive and doing our very best to help her through her recovery.

I would like to thank Theresa, and Sprockett's Doggy Day Camp for every thing they have done, and are continuing to do. I would also like to thank my Mom for taking her for a short period, as well as Manitoba Mutts for the assistance in her day care bill.

I hope Sandy's story inspires you in the inner strength possible in dogs, and we know we will never take her walking for granted again! We are in anticipation of the day we can take her to the park!

Small House full of Big Hearts & Foster Dogs

Top to Bottom - Diesel (adopted by mom),
Abacus (foster fail)
& Waverley (current foster) 

By Kyrstin Stephenson

We first came across Manitoba Mutts one day when we were contemplating adding another dog to our family. We saw the most adorable little American Eskimo, one of our dream breeds. We thought this is it, she will be perfect for our family. One little problem, we had some friends and family staying with us, and we were about to go on a trip a few days after that. Not the ideal situation to bring a new dog into. So we decided ok, if the dog was still there when we got back she had to be ours!

As we were away I was checking the Facebook page religiously to see if she was still there. Every day I checked I got more and more excited, I thought this must be fate, she is waiting for us. Well the day we got back from a long 18 hour drive I went on the site once more, she had been adopted that day… I couldn’t believe it, I was quite upset about it, even though I had never met her I thought for sure it was meant to be.

So we followed the page a little while longer and I saw a post about needing fosters for some of the dogs. I jumped on the chance and sent an email right away, even before checking with my boyfriend. When he came home I told him we are going to have another dog in the house pretty soon. He looked at me puzzled as I turned my laptop screen towards him showing him the email I had sent about fostering, to my surprise he shrugged his shoulders and said “ok, when will they be coming?”

Now, in my initial emails, I said to MMDR I have a small house, one dog and two cats, we would love to foster but would need to have a small-medium sized dog to fit in our house. Within a week or so I received a phone call telling me about our first foster Luna, a Border collie husky cross, full of energy and just needing a place to crash until she is adopted. I thought she would be perfect; we have a terrier with tons of energy so I thought they could certainly tire each other out. And that they did, they spent so much time just chasing each other around our small yard or in a field close to our house. Luna was beautiful and well behaved. I was hooked!

We continued fostering one dog at a time, small-medium size, and our terrified cats started to relax as the dogs kept coming through. Then at a fair one day I was asked if I could foster a pregnant mom, who was expected to have a litter of about 3-4 puppies. A little nervous, I said yes. I have never done a litter before, I have never looked after a birthing mom or newborn animals, I had no idea what to expect. MMDR provided us with all that we needed; a whelping box, food and tons of experience to call on.

We had Milo for about a week before she gave birth to SEVEN puppies!  I was so nervous that something bad was going to happen, one of the puppies was going to get stuck, or she would reject them, I was certain Murphy’s law was going to set in at some point. Well, nothing like that happened, or at least I didn’t know if it did, we woke up to little squeaks coming from the whelping box. She had all the puppies overnight all clean, dry and feeding, all by herself! What an amazing thing to wake up to.

Milo stayed with us until all of her puppies were weaned, and the puppies stayed until they were about 8 weeks. So the house that I said needed a small dog, now had our two cats, our dog, Milo and her seven puppies, that is a grand total of 11 animals!

This is the part of our journey that is kindly referred to as Foster Failing; that is when the fosters fall for the dog, can’t let them go and end up adopting them. We fell in love with Milo, she had a great temperament and was the perfect size for us, unfortunately she was already spoken for. So shortly before she gave birth we decided we were going to adopt one of her puppies. Although, I maintain it wasn’t a foster fail since we made this decision before they were even born. We adopted a little girl, Abacus, who now looks almost identical to her mother.

After all the pups went to their new homes we welcomed in our next foster. From then on the puppies just kept coming. I have five dogs in my house right now, two of our own and three fosters. The best part? They all fit!

I have learned a lot throughout my fostering experience; some lessons about dogs, dog behaviour, and dog health. The best lesson I have taken away from this is that the dogs don’t ask for much. They come in from all backgrounds, born into care or found starving under a bench they are always looking for the same thing, someone to care about them and give them a place to crash until they find their “furever home”.

You don’t need a big house, a big yard, or years of experience working with animals in order to foster. You really just need to open up your home and heart to care for them. From my personal experience they take up a lot less space than you think they need.

Fostering has changed our lives; give it a chance to change yours. Just remember size doesn’t matter.

Have some extra room in your heart and home? Why not consider Fostering? Contact Foster@manitobamutts.org for more information!

Fact: Black Dogs Have it Tough

By MMDR

Andy

Everyday shelters and dog rescues are faced with the issue of black dog syndrome. Black dogs are constantly over looked by potential adopters leading to a vast number of black dogs being euthanized each year. There are many reasons that black dogs are overlooked, many extremely superficial and insignificant.  Photography is a common reason that black dogs are over looked – it is hard to get a good picture of them.  When potential adopters are searching for their new furry family member, the internet common place to look, and without a good picture it is may difficult to create an emotional bond to a dog.  A solution to this is to read up on photography applications for darker objects and use proper lighting. Hollywood often portrays black dogs as the villain, and black is usually the colour of the “bad guys” in many children’s movies and television shows. Celebrities are often spotted with their pure bred lighter coloured dog which in turn transfers into mainstream trends. The human eye is often attracted in lighter objects and is drawn to colours that stand out. A lighter dog will always stand out among a group of black dogs.  Black dogs can also been stereotyped as being meaner or not as well behaved as lighter colour dogs which is a absolute fallacy. A dog’s personality and behaviour traits are learned from their environment, teaching and conditionings. The colour of a dog’s fur will have no correlation to their personality. Superstitions may also contribute to black dog syndrome as a black cat is considered ‘unlucky’ due to being linked to witch craft in the middle age times. Black dogs are often seen as less attractive than their light colour counterparts, many times referred to as “plain” or “common”. Manitoba Mutts has a variety of beautiful, adorable and lovable dogs many of them black in colour. It is also stated that it is harder to read the facial expression of a black dog, again creating difficulties in developing a connection between and adopter and dog they are considering. Depression is also referred to as the “black dog” which does not help the black dog syndrome issue.

Many black dogs have Labrador retriever in their genetic make up. This is heart breaking being the avid Lab enthusiast that I am. Labs make amazing dogs, their love and loyalty to their owners is unquestionable. Many black dogs may have the attributes that suit your needs, regardless of their breed. Overlooking a black dog because of their colour can result in your family missing out on a great pet.

What can you do to help black dog syndrome? Bring attention to the issue. When your friends and family are discussing their adoption options, remind them that black dogs can make great pets. If you are considering adopting ensure you are keeping an open mind to all colours and types of dogs and choosing a dog that best suits your family. Recognize and help celebrate black dogs and everything that they have to offer.

Manitoba Mutt’s Black Beauties:

Nikki

Dodge

Sparky

Bayer 

For more black dogs visit our website, Facebook page and follow us on Twitter! 

Other Blog Posts on Black Dogs:

http://mbmutts.blogspot.ca/search/label/black%20dogs

For More information on Black Dog Syndrome Visit:

http://www.cesarsway.com/community/pettravel/Travels-with-My-Dog-Casey-Black-Dog-Syndrome

http://www.humaneforpets.com/2012/03/a-cure-for-black-dog-syndrome/

Storm's Happy Ending - Her Forever Home!

Storm

By Michelle Sparrow

My Husband Brad and I have always loved dogs, and knew that when we got married we would never be without one…or two.  Also, our two year old daughter Kolby is a natural pack leader and adores dogs.

In January we had to make the heart wrenching decision to euthanize our five year old Dog, Neely. Neely was a female Border Collie Dalmatian cross. She was a character, and was the most affectionate dog I have ever met.  She was there for us through 3 devastating pregnancy losses including the loss of our first daughter Hayley. She never left my side.  She was an incredibly special dog.  Unfortunately the size of her heart is what cut her life short. Our sweet Neely suffered from a congenital heart failure. We had adopted Neely as a puppy so our that other dog, Buster would have a companion. Buster was five at the time and was also adopted. The two of them were inseparable. They were best friends, and when Neely didn't come home, Buster was completely lost. Our hearts were shattered.

We knew we wanted to get another dog but after an unsuccessful trial with a six month old puppy we did not think it was going to happen. Then I saw Storm come up on my Facebook newsfeed, it was a post about Storm's last run on four legs.  I read her story and immediately wanted to meet this girl.  I contacted Kori Gray and she told me all about Storm.  Brad and I made the decision to meet Storm, and see where it went from there.  It has turned out to be one of the best decisions we had ever made!  Storm's heart and soul is what makes her a great dog.  She's full of life and energy - and most importantly love.  She loves Buster and seems to think she is Kolby's Mommy already, after only a few days.

We feel that Hayley and Neely sent Storm to us.  Storm needed a forever family to love and to love her, and we had room in our hearts and our home.
Thank you Manitoba Mutts, for saving this special, amazing girl, and so many others.  And thank you to Kori, Jenn Harder and anyone else who helped show Storm what it's like to be loved and part of a family so she could be ready to go to her furever home.

Brad, Michelle, Kolby, Buster & STORM Sparrow!!

Read about Storm's rescue from Berens River Reserve

http://mbmutts.blogspot.ca/2012/04/second-chance-for-storm-and-tasha-and.html

Read about two of Storm's babies - Chief and Jagger

http://mbmutts.blogspot.ca/2012/04/love-at-first-sight-times-two-chief.html

Storm and Buster Camping in Grand Beach on May Long Weekend

Storm and Buster - Getting Along Perfectly

  

Rambo - Our Sweet Survivor

By Dan Allen

No More Pain for Rambo :) 

Manitoba Mutts asked me to take care of an older male dog (about two years old) who was flying in from a reserve in Manitoba. Suffering from an injured leg, the poor guy was in quite a bit of pain. He had a broken leg which did not heal properly so he basically was walking on three legs. If he put any weight on his sore leg the pain was too unbearable for him to take. When arriving at MMDR, he had no name so he went by “Broken Leg.” Somewhere along the way someone referred to him as Rambo which was an ideal name for this fighter and survivor. Rambo stuck with him as it described him perfectly.

When Rambo lived on the reserve he had to defend himself against other male dogs that were healthier than him. This makes him very nervous when he is first introduced to other dogs. However, within a day in his foster home, Rambo warmed up nicely to his foster brother Shadow, a six month of Manitoba Mutts alumni.  

Rambo is a big boy weighing about 75 pounds with a huge head on him. His fur is a light brown and he is very handsome. His back legs are all muscle. Rambo has caused me to work out more lately as he decides whether or not he is ready for bed, if he is not, it will force me to carry him to the basement and put him inside his crate myself.

Even though he has been through a great deal of hardships, this big, goofy boy is one of the most loving and friendly dogs that I have ever met. He cannot get enough affection and never wants to leave your side. He is great in his crate at night and does not make a sound. Since coming into his foster home he has not had a single accident inside the house. He eats all his food and is always ready for seconds, or treats – either will do!  

Rambo’s bad leg has been amputated and is adjusting nicely to life on three legs and is no longer in pain. He is such a sweet dog and will make a great addition to a family. Manitoba Mutts is doing everything possible to ensure Rambo will live a healthy and happy life, this big boy deserve it! 

More information on our dogs that required treatments and surgeries and information on Sponsoring a Mutt visit: http://mbmutts.blogspot.ca/2012/05/sponsor-mutt-in-need.html

Why Spay or Neuter you Dog

MMDR

Spaying refers to surgically removing the reproductive organs of a dog (or cat) including both ovaries and the uterus. When the female dog is spayed, she will be unable to become pregnant with offspring.  Although spaying is considered major surgery as the veterinarian needs to enter the dog’s abdomen, the procedure is very routine and safe for your pet. As with any surgery, there is always a risk. Ensure you speak with your veterinarian to discuss any possible complications. There are many myths in regards to spaying your pet. One myth discusses that you should allow your dog to go through their first “heat” and/or litter before spaying them. This is untrue, actually by spaying the dog before their first “heat” will reduce the changes of mammary cancer by 97% over the dog’s lifetime.

Neutering (also known as castration) refers to surgically removing the reproductive organs of a male dog. The veterinarian term for this is orchiectomy. With the removal of the dog’s testicle, he will no longer be able to get a female dog pregnant. Weight gain should be monitored when a dog is neutered as they require 25% less calories than before the operation. Your dog’s energy level can also decrease as a result of neutering. As with all major surgeries, ensure you discuss your dog’s health and procedure with your veterinarian. The ideal time for neutering to occur is between five and seven months of age and the procedure is very routine. 

The main reason to spay or neuter your dog is to control animal population. A female dog can do into heat (have the ability to become pregnant) as early as six months old (usually 12 months at the latest). Litters can occur one to four times per year, with an average of nine puppies per litter. The average dog lives to about 12 years old, and although they do eventually become infertile, the age of when a dog can no longer become pregnant varies. One female dog can dramatically affect the dog over population problem over the course of her life. It is extremely important to spay and neuter your dog to do your part to help control this issue.

Manitoba has a serious dog over population problem, especially on many of the Reserves in rural Manitoba. Manitoba Mutts is constantly bringing these dogs into rescue – majority coming from unwanted litters.

What can you do to help?

1)    Ensure you spay or neuter your dog! Good news, when adopting from Manitoba Mutts (and most other rescues and shelters) spaying and neutering is part of your adoption fee.

2)    Adopt – Don’t Shop. By adopting a dog from a rescue you help reduce the dog over population and avoid giving your business to puppy mills

3)    Donate and help support rescues that help control the dog over population in Manitoba.

Useful links:

http://www.pet-informed-veterinary-advice-online.com/male-dog-neutering.html

http://vetmedicine.about.com/cs/dogdiseasess/a/spaying.htm

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/story/2010/12/22/man-shamattawa-dogs-puppies-killed.html

Giving the Opportunity to be a Dog - Decker

Carol & Jim Derksen

Decker Laying on his deck 

Manitoba Mutts rescued Decker from Washagamis Bay near Kenora, Ontario. He spent about five years, his entire life, tied to a deck (that is why he received the name Decker). We were initially concerned about the aggressive and territorial traits that he showed towards other dogs and we were cautious about where to place him. After a while Decker came out of his shell and proved to be a very nice boy. His transformation was inspiring – for a dog that was never allowed inside or given the opportunity to play, he was able to run and be a dog.

Since being adopted Decker has changed a lot, he has shed off his winter coat and looks like a new dog – he loves being brush and also does not mind being vacuumed. A few weeks ago Decker was put to the test: he was brought on a long walk with the two other dogs to Emerson and given the chance to run free. Of course, they came into contact with a rabbit and all three of them sprinted after it. Surprisingly, Decker was the first dog back and stayed with his people for the entire walk – he has developed into such a good boy.

Decker has settled into routine quite well. After work his owner has her tea while Decker and his dog brother get their treats. Once settled onto the couch, Decker comes and cuddles on her lap…he just love hugs!

The family swears that Trini, their late dog, sent Decker to fill the void she left in their hearts. 

Decker getting hugs from Mama

Sponsor a Mutt in Need

MMDR

Sunshine is battling Heartworm

At Manitoba Mutts Dog Rescue we bring dogs into our rescue requiring our help. We thrive to help as many dogs in our backyards as possible, some strays from Winnipeg and rural Manitoba, some surrendered by their owner for varies reasons and some come into cares in their womb of their mothers about to give birth. When a dog is brought into MMDR they are fully examined by a veterinarian. Many of these dogs have had a rough life and require costly and expensive treatments.  Whether it heartworm, an injure leg causing pain or any other aliment, we believe that every dog deserves a chance at a happy life.

At MMDR we hear a lot about how people would love to foster or adopt but it is not in their cards for the time being. If you are looking to help out, why not Sponsor a Mutt? By contributing to a dog in need, you can be their virtual foster parent, helping that dog become the pet he or she can be.

How to Sponsor a Mutt? Visit our website to donate at http://www.manitobamutts.org/donate.html and specify if there is a dog in particular that caught your heart or if you want to help all our mutts in need.  In addition, non-monetary donations are also greatly appreciate: Dog & Puppy Food (we always prefer puppy food as most of the dogs that come to us are starved and need the fat content of puppy food in order to put on weight), Dog Kennels (new or used - our dogs don't mind),  Dog Collars & Leashes (new or used) Blankets, Paper Towels, Newspaper & Puppy Pads (for training puppies),  Dog toys and treats (dogs love to play, too you know), Kiddie Pool (for our mommas with puppies),  X-pens, Baby gates, Advertising donations, prize donations (for events), and other various donations.

Pennies for Pooches is another fundraising initiatives to raise funds for our dogs in need. Since pennies will not longer be produced in Canada, you may be looking for a way to part with the ones you currently have. Manitoba Mutts will happily take your pennies off your hands. Be creative – this is a fundraiser for all ages including children.

Keep checking our website, Facebook page and follow us on Twitter for all our fundraising events. Also, remember to please spread the word about Manitoba Mutts and what we do! 

This brave boy Rambo just has his leg amputated 

Cajun is going Parvo treatments and is looking for his forever home

Due to leg injuries Garcia requires a leg amputation   

Rumo requires double hip surgery as he currently is having major joint issues 

Tess has been diagnosed with has Cranial Crusiates Disease in both hind legs   

Olive came in with rough skin and extremely malnourished - she also has heartworm  disease

Annie requires hip surgery 

Mother's Day Pancake Breakfast & Adoption Fair

By MMDR
Mother’s Day first originated in the 1800’s and is a celebration of a mother’s love and the bond between a mother and child. For centuries moms have been cherished and every year their children have looked for the perfect gift and/or event to demonstrate their love to their mothers. This year, why not take you mother out to a pancake breakfast in support of Manitoba Mutts Dog Rescue? Held at Sprockett’s Doggy Day Camp located at unit 7-975 Thomas Ave we will be serving up pancakes, coffee and juice to help support the rescue and our mutts in need. Everyone is welcome including: Moms, dads, grandmothers, grandfathers, children as well as dog foster moms, alumni and anyone else that wants to help out an amazing cause. It is also a great way to convince your mom to adoption a puppy or dog for your family. 

Following the pancake breakfast will be a massive Adoption Fair. The fair will feature appearances from the Cvet pets and of course, our very own Winnipeg Blue Bombers! So basically, your mom can indulge in pancakes, meet cute and cuddly dogs and puppies and then enjoy the company of handsome football players. Could her Mother’s Day get any better? Even if you are not a mom come down and enjoy the festivities, and meet some great dogs and puppies that are looking for a mother, father and/or family of their own!

Details:

Sprockett's Doggy Day Camp

Unit 7- 975 Thomas Ave, Winnipeg, MB R2L 1P7

View Map · Get Directions

9:30am – 11:30am

Breakfast – Children $3.00 & Adults $5

Includes pancakes, coffee and juice

Adoption Fair to follow from 11:30am – 3:00pm

We really hope to see you there to support our rescue and help sponsor a mutt in need. Want to help spread the word? Download our poster here http://on.fb.me/JcpzZf and display it in your community, work place or children's school. Also, please share this event on Facebook http://on.fb.me/IJJKwM and follow us /tweet about us on Twitter @ManitobaMutts...  Happy Mother’s Day everyone! 

Zepp is looking for his Forever Mom

Victory (Mother of the Jet's Pups) still waiting for her Forever Home

Cvet Bombers with MMDR

Fraiser wants a mama, too!! 

Blaire's Perfect Family - Finally!

Blaire

Blair came into Manitoba Mutts Dog Rescue after being a long-term resident from the Winnipeg Human Society where she lived for about year. This girl has such a great spirit and energy about her, but for some reason was overlooked for a very long time.  In December, 2011, Blaire was brought in for professional photos to help her get noticed by potential adopters.  Many of us met her for the first time that day, and were so impressed with what a nice girl she is.  We took her to the dog park for a special visit and she was on her best behaviour.  

Blaire is great with other dogs, kids and small animals.  She was spectacular with her foster’s handicap child too!  Just shortly after photos, friends of the foster who had been staying with them could not let Blaire go and decided to adopt her.  It was a great day for all of us!  This was after over 8 months in care.  Unfortunately though, a few months later, Blaire was sick and her family could not afford her vet care, and had to surrender her back into our care.  Blaire went back up on the website and although there were interested adopters, still remained available for another two or three month. 

Blaire found an incredible family that is a perfect match for her; she is calming down and fitting into the family just nicely. She has not had any accidents and has lost quite a bit of weight due to her increased activity. Her family has learned not to leave things within her reach as she can devour food faster than imagined. She is working on eating prettier, with her new brother, Diego.

Blair has been enjoying leg rubs every morning as she is limping quite a bit when she wakes up. Her family is still determining the reason for the stiffness, whether it is from the increase in activity or early arthritis symptoms. When she first arrived she was very tired, but now she is enjoying her days with Diego, exploring and visiting grandma and grandpa and the rest of there family. She and Diego have their own dog run complete with their own dog houses for the odd days that their parents are not home.

The two of them are best friends and have officially been nicknamed Smelly and Melly. Blaire is Smelly, as she is a bit of a stinker. Diego is Melly, in reference to Melman, the hypochondriac giraffe from the movie Madagascar. They also go by Melman and Moosey and do not seem to mind.

Everyone is so proud of Blaire, she found her perfect family and she has completed theirs! Enjoy the summer, Blaire, Deigo and family!!

Diego & Blaire

Happy Family

Best Buddies

Protecting your Pooch from Lyme Disease

By MMDR

 

What is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is transmitted from black (deer) ticks infected with the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. For the infectious tick to transfer this disease to a dog it must be attached to their skin for 12 – 24 hours. Tick season occurs during early spring and can last until late fall, when dogs are outside the most enjoying the weather with their families. 

Symptoms of Lyme Disease:

Many times when a dog has been bitten with an infectious tick there is no rash or sign of infection, but a few months later symptoms can occur. Commonly, dogs can develop recurrent lameness due to inflamed joints. This lameness can last a few days and then re-occur in the same or their other legs a few weeks later. Other minor symptoms can include: stiff legs and back, sensitivity to inflamed areas when touched, trouble breathing, fever, inflamed lymph nodes (close to area of bite), loss of appetite and depression. The more serious affects include kidney damage, heart and nervous system diseases.

Treating Lyme Disease:

To fully understand the effects of lyme disease on a particular dog the veterinarian will complete a series of tests to determine if any organs are affected. The veterinarian will also look for tick bites on the dog, and ensure there are no tick fragments still attached to its skin. If the symptoms are minor usually antibiotics will be sufficient to cure lyme disease. If the infection has caused damage to the kidneys or nervous system additional medication and treatments will be required.

Prevention is key:

When tick season occurs ensure you use a product to prevent infection. Treatments can be purchased at your local pet supplies store, make scure to consult your veterinarian as well. Check your dog each time they are outdoors and remove all ticks that you find attached to their body. Ensure your yard is trimmed and well maintained to reduce the number of ticks available to bite your dog. 

Ask your veterinarian for additional information on ticks and lyme disease. Have a safe and happy summer! 


Useful Lime Disease Links:
http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/infectious-parasitic/c_dg_lyme_disease#.T7MUsNw7Xko
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+1556&aid=458
http://www.ehow.com/video_4801811_symptoms-lyme-disease-dogs.html