Join us for the 10th Annual Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K on Sunday, November 10th at Westside Park in Atlanta, GA. This event is one of our largest fundraisers for Atlanta Lab Rescue and we can’t do it without you.
The Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K is a dog and kid friendly race. The registration fee includes a long sleeve race t-shirt. Awards will be given to the overall male and female winners as well as top 3 M/F in various age groups and the top 3 finishing dogs participating. If you can’t make the race, we are offering a virtual race option. T-shirts will be mailed to virtual race participants after the event.
As the year comes to a close, we want to thank all of the volunteers that help rescue, transport, foster, show at Adoption Days, and do the administrative work. It’s a small army that accomplishes great things for so many deserving dogs! We also want to thank all of you who support us financially, many throughout the year, as well as those of you who step up when we get in a bind.
If you own a dog, you know how expensive vetting has gotten, and its no different for rescue, especially when you have 50+ dogs, and you seem to be a magnet for the tough cases. On Christmas morning we received a call about a young black lab named Gypsy, who was spayed the week before and had ripped open her stitches, and her organs were protruding through the incision. The owners took her to a vet but they couldn’t afford to pay the bill. The vet didn’t want to see the dog put down, so she called someone, who called someone, who called us. Gypsy is at the ER now with a bill that could range from $4200 – $8400, and that’s just one dog.
In addition to the “tough cases,” our general vetting that we do at intake averages over $500 for a healthy dog. We also currently have 10 permanent fosters, dogs that have health issues that make them hard to adopt, so we find loving foster homes for them and agree to pay all of their vetting. The issues range from cardiac to Cushings to cancer, and most require frequent specialty vet visits and expensive meds.
Right behind vetting, is our boarding cost. We average 25 dogs in boarding at any given time, with a yearly total this year close to $150,000 (over $12,000 for food alone). Additional board training for behavioral issues added another $3-5,000 a month.This year, thanks to your support, we had what we needed to get the job done and help many dogs that other rescues could not, but we’re beginning 2024 with a balance that is 27% below last year, meaning we’ll have to scale back.
I wish all of you had my perspective. I see every dog when it comes in and then when it’s adopted, and the look in their faces says it all. Their lives are forever changed. There are only a few days left in the year, and we’re asking if you haven’t donated, if you would consider a tax deductible donation to Atlanta Lab Rescue. Every bit helps – $3 buys a collar, $300 covers heartworm treatment, and it all changes lives.
Thank you!! Becky Cross ALR Director
You can also mail a donation to PO Box 250206, Atlanta, GA 30325 or VENMO @AtlantaLabRescue Click Here to DonateOnce you’ve donated, tell your friends by sharing on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or the social media platform of your choice. Let’s show them how much heart GEORGIA has!!!
Those of you who have gone to our GA Gives page to donate, read about Alfie, a rescue that came in starved and abused. His adopter donated, and emailed us an update.Turns out today is his “Gotcha Day,”when he was adopted, and here’s Alfie now. This should make you believe in miracles and how your support for Atlanta Lab Rescue changes lives.We are so grateful for your financial support that makes it all possible, and for those volunteers who make it all happen.We didn’t quite meet our goal for Giving Tuesday this year… so let’s make it Giving Friday!If you haven’t had a chance to donate to GA Gives, you can still do it by clicking below. Your donations are tax deductible and guaranteed to make you feel good… Thank you!!Becky CrossALR Director You can also mail a donation to PO Box 250206, Atlanta, GA 30325 or VENMO @AtlantaLabRescue and indicate “Giving Tuesday.”Click Here to DonateOnce you’ve donated, tell your friends by sharing on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or the social media platform of your choice. Let’s show them how much heart GEORGIA has!!!
On behalf of Atlanta Lab Rescue, we want to thank everyone who participated in our 9th Annual George Heery, Jr Memorial ALR 5KI this year. We couldn’t have done it without the support of our amazing sponsors, volunteers, and runners.
We hope everyone had a great time on the course and petting all the adorable dogs. All the proceeds of this race help us continue our work on rescuing homeless and abused dogs and helping them find their “furever” homes. Your contributions make it possible for us to help as many dogs as we can.
Thank you again for making this event such a huge success. Be sure to join us next year for our 10th year of this race on Sunday, November 17, 2023. Mark your calendars now!
Join us for the 9th Annual Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K on Sunday, November 12th at Westside Park in Atlanta, GA. This event is one of our largest fundraisers for Atlanta Lab Rescue and we can’t do it without you.
The Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K is a dog and kid friendly race. The registration fee includes a long sleeve race t-shirt. Awards will be given to the overall male and female winners as well as top 3 M/F in various age groups and the top 3 finishing dogs participating. If you can’t make the race, we are offering a virtual race option. T-shirts will be mailed to virtual race participants after the event.
“Bourbon, Barbecue & Best of Breed” was a HUGE success and we hope everyone had a great time! We want to thank all of our wonderful sponsors and vendors who made it all possible, our Silent Auction donors, and all of you who bought tickets and came out and supported us. Thanks also to the volunteers who worked the event, and helped set up and tear down, and special thanks to God for holding off the rain until after the party… See you next year.
A new documentary movie dropped tonight (12/14/2022) called “Free Puppies” about our animal overpopulation in the South and the role the rescues play. It’s a must see for anyone who loves dogs and supports rescue efforts. It’s available on Amazon and on DVD online. Please take the time to view this very informative documentary and help stop pet overpopulation. I am certain the Christmas Wish for all Dog & Cat Rescue Groups would be to go out of business.
Atlanta Lab Rescue works tirelessly, 24/7 – 365 to save as many dogs as we possibly can from all over the Southeast…Everything from puppies and pregnant dogs to senior dogs that have been abandoned. At Christmastime, so many people want to get a puppy (or a kitten) for a family member as a surprise Christmas Morning….Here is our PSA – DON’T DO IT!! We have been getting requests for puppies to “surprise my grandmother” on Christmas morning – seriously? A puppy is a living, breathing animal that will have a life spam of probably 15 years. This shouldn’t be a “surprise” on Christmas morning whether it is for Granny or the Grandkids or a surprise any time of the year. When this author got her puppy, now 8 years ago, she thought about it long and hard – she is neither a granny or a kid and it was challenging and it isn’t for everybody – she planned for it time wise and budget wise and was/is very successful. Our rescue will start to get tons of owner surrender requests end of January and February – the Christmas gift that keeps on giving actually needs work, love and attention! SO WHAT TO DO? Read on for the PERFECT SOLUTION – Find a very cool leash, collar and a toy and wrap them all up and put them under the tree with a note that says when the time is right for everyone and everyone is ready and on board, you will go out and adopt the right puppy or dog for your family. This is the perfect idea! Please help prevent the shelter dumping and make a good decision now! Remember….
On behalf of Atlanta Lab Rescue, we want to thank everyone who participated in our 8th Annual Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K! We couldn’t have done it without the support of our amazing sponsors, volunteers, and runners.
We hope everyone had a great time soaking up some sunshine, snacking on delicious brunch sandwiches, enjoyed the vendors and of course petting all the adorable dogs. All the proceeds of this race help us continue our work rescuing homeless and abused dogs and helping them find their “furever” homes. Your contributions make it possible for us to help as many dogs as we can.
Thank you again for making this event such a huge success! Be sure to join us next year for our 9th Annual Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K on Saturday, November 11th, 2023. Mark your calendars now!!
When Lauren Siler saw the sweet graying face of Annie, a nineteen-year-old black Lab mix, she couldn’t get the dog out of her mind. An animal lover in Dallas, Siler regularly fosters abandoned newborn kittens. “I honestly had no intention of ever fostering any other animals than the neonatal kittens,” Siler says, “until I saw Annie’s picture.”
When Siler and her best friend and roommate, Lisa Flores, contacted the Pawerful Rescue outside of Dallas, they were told Annie was likely in her last month or so of life. (The notes from her surrender said she had stopped eating and walking). Undeterred, the duo brought her home and set out to spoil her rotten.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF LAUREN SILER
That was almost five months ago. Ever since, Annie’s been living it up, enjoying loads of love and lots of naps while checking off a bucket list brimming with experiences and adventures—from wading in a kiddie pool to donning a Santa hat for Christmas in July to dressing up as an angel for Halloween.
Well documented on Instagram, Annie’s fun-filled days have brought joy to thousands of supporters near and far. (She’s chasing twenty thousand followers on Instagram and has a post office box for fan mail.) Annie’s a lucky dog; while many senior dogs are surrendered, few find new homes. We asked Siler for advice on the best ways to help other senior dogs in need.
What do you want people touched by Annie’s story to understand?
We had no idea until we started fostering Annie that this is not a rare thing. She is not the only old dog sitting in a shelter. I just happened with some sort of social media algorithm to see her picture that day.
What should people know about fostering animals?
When you find a good rescue, like we did with the Pawerful Rescue, all you are responsible for is the soft spot to land and lots of love. The financial responsibility for all medicine, food, vet appointments, etc. is covered by the rescue organization. The foster will get so, so much more from these animals than they can ever give them.
If they can’t foster, is there anything else Annie’s fans can do to help animals in need of a home?
My motto through this whole foster journey has been this: If you can’t adopt, foster. If you can’t foster, volunteer. If you can’t volunteer, donate. If you can’t donate, advocate. There is something every single person can do in animal rescue. Find a local rescue group or shelter and ask how you can help.
Does Annie need donations?
Annie’s Shelter Dog Treat Wish List consists of bones that will be taken to Dallas Animal Services, the shelter where Annie was originally surrendered. They have on average about 360 dogs in their facility every day. Annie and Tippy’s Wish List (Tippy is another senior dog the duo is also fostering) includes things that are generally needed or are going to be used for bucket list activities.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF LAUREN SILER
What’s something you especially love about Annie?
I love the way she “happy dances” before meals. I also have a love-hate relationship with how she has trained us that she needs a treat to come back inside and will plant her feet right outside the threshold until we offer her a treat.
What’s left on Annie’s bucket list?
Annie loved her hamburger tour so much that we are going to take Annie and Tippy on a chicken nugget tour and maybe even an ice cream cone tour. Her bucket list is infinite.
House Training Adult Dogs – June 8, 2022 (Published) Breanna Norris, KPA CTPMaddy in the leaves. Photo Courtesy of Pat Koven, LVT, KPA-CTP
When house training an adult dog, the process is the same as with a new puppy. Although you may have been told your new adult dog is house trained, that may not be the case in your home. When first brought home, you may not be able to recognize your dog’s need to go out and they do not know how to go out.
Keep slip-on shoes and a leash near the door so you can quickly take them out when they wake up, after they eat, when they are sniffing for a spot, or looking restless. Be patient and take them outside frequently.
Keep treats handy near the door to grab as you go outside to your dog’s designated potty area. As soon as your dog goes to the bathroom, reward them with several of their favorite treats. Shower your dog with treats when they go to the bathroom outside, don’t wait to treat them after they come back in.
Giving so many treats like this may be frightening to your dog, causing them to refuse the treat. If this happens, remain calm and try putting the treat on the ground near them. If they still refuse the treat, try reinforcing another way, like going back inside or letting them sniff the grass or a tree. You can also try tempting them with other treats to discover what your dog considers valuable.
Adult dogs may prefer to potty on a specific surface. A dog that has spent their life in a kennel may prefer concrete over grass because this is familiar to them. To encourage your dog to go on different surfaces, try:
a road or sidewalk or an area with gravel;
leaf piles that might resemble wood shavings in their previous kennel;
bare ground under a tree or near the garage;
a covered porch, a garage, or a pop-up tent if they only previously soiled in the house;
a low-sided container such as a boot tray with sod or artificial grass for small dogs.
Some dogs may have been punished for toileting in the house, causing them to avoid going to the bathroom in front of people. Take them out in a safe area on a long leash or someplace where they can potty behind a tree or bush to give them privacy.
Since some dogs have never gone to the bathroom while leashed, try using a lightweight long line and be sure to keep the leash loose, or go to a safely fenced-in area so they do not need to be leashed. For small dogs, an exercise pen on the grass can often work.
Clancy on his long line. Photo Courtesy of Pat Koven, LVT, KPA-CTP
Making accommodations may be short-term while you find what your dog prefers. Eventually, you can transition your dog to the area you choose. Help your dog understand where you want them to go by using a visual such as wood shavings in the area. Reinforce each time they toilet on the shavings, using fewer shavings until eventually your dog no longer needs the visual.
Similar to training a puppy, your adult dog should not have free run of the house. Use exercise pens, baby gates, or doors to keep your dog with you until they are fully house trained and let you know they need to go out. It can take several months to fully housetrain. For accidents inside, use a good enzyme cleaner to remove odors to help prevent possible future marking behavior.
If you have any concerns about your dog’s bathroom habits, discuss the issues with your veterinarian to rule out medical conditions.
Casey stands on pebbles. Photo Courtesy of Pat Koven, LVT, KPA-
As temperatures rise, follow our guide to keeping your dog safe and having fun in the summer sun.
Heatstroke in dogs
Dogs can suffer fatal heatstroke within minutes. Unlike humans, dogs can’t sweat through their skin and so they rely on panting and releasing heat through their paw pads and nose to regulate their body temperature and keep cool. Imagine wearing a thick winter coat on a hot summer’s day and you’ll understand why dogs succumb to heatstroke so easily.
Signs of heatstroke in dogs include collapse, excessive panting, and dribbling.
If you suspect your pet is suffering from the condition, move them to a cool place, preferably with a draught, wet their coat with cool – not freezing – water, and contact your vet immediately.
Once a dog shows signs of heatstroke the damage is often already done, which is why it’s so important to prevent it.
Dogs in hot cars
Dogs succumb to heatstroke quickly. As above, they cannot sweat in the same way that people can and cannot keep cool as easily as we can. A car can become an oven very quickly even when it doesn’t feel that warm. When it is 22°C outside – within an hour – the temperature in a car can reach an unbearable 47°C.
Never leave a dog in a car, even for a moment. ‘Not long’ is too long.Off Important Off Blue
Can I smash a window to free a dog from a hot car?
If you see a dog in distress inside a car, official advice is to dial 999 immediately and ask for the police. A dog in distress in a hot car is an emergency and the police will advise you what to do based on the situation.
Depending on the severity of the situation, the police may attend and break into the car to gain access to the dog, or they may advise you to do this. If you decide to break into a car without proper justification, this could be classed as criminal damage and you may need to defend your actions in a court.
Call the police using 999 and tell them what you intend to do and why. Take pictures and/or videos of the dog in distress and the names and phone numbers of witnesses. The Criminal Damage Act 1971 provides a lawful excuse to commit damage if you believe that the owner of the property that you damage would consent to the damage if they knew the circumstances (under section 5(2)(a).
How to keep a dog cool and prevent heatstroke
Make sure your dog has access to clean water at all times, ideally a large bowl filled to the brim. Carry water and a bowl with you on walks.
On hot days, walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day, in the early morning and late evening
Watch your pet for signs of over-heating, including heavy panting and loss of energy. If you recognise these signs when on a walk, stop, find a shady spot and give your dog water.
Never leave your dog (or any pet) alone in a car, even with the windows open
Make cooling tasty treats by making ice cubes with your dog’s favourite food inside or stuff a Kong and pop it in the freezer
Be particularly careful with short nosed dogs such as bull breeds, boxers, pugs, older dogs, and those that are overweight. These dogs can get heatstroke simply by running around.
Exercising in the summer
As at all times of the year, by law your dog should be wearing a collar and tag with your name and address on it. It’s also a good idea to put both your home and mobile phone number on the tag so you can be contacted immediately if your dog wanders off.
Since April 2016 it has been a legal requirement for dogs to be microchipped. Most importantly, keep the details up to date so that you can always be reunited with your dog.
Walking
Walk your dog at the cooler times of the day, either first thing in the morning or early evening
Dogs’ paw pads can burn on hot pavements. As a general rule, if it’s too hot for your hand it’s too hot for their paws.
Swimming is excellent exercise for dogs and a great exercise alternative to walking in the summer heat. But remember that not all dogs like to swim, so if yours doesn’t then don’t force them and never throw a dog into water.
Be wary of tides at the beach
Drinking salt water is likely to make your dog sick and isn’t very good for them. Bring fresh water with you to the beach.
Wash salt and sand off your dog’s coat after swimming to prevent it drying and irritating their skin
Be careful to avoid heatstroke on the beach
Watch out for currents in rivers
Check freshwater lakes, rivers, ponds and canals to make sure they are clean before letting your dog dive in. Some types of algae, including blue-green algae, are toxic to dogs. If your dog swims in algae-contaminated water, contact your vet immediately.
Dogs can and do drown in rivers and the sea. If your dog has inhaled water, contact your vet, as they can suffer complications.
Sadly, each year dog owners drown trying to rescue their pets. Don’t risk dangerous situations.
Water intoxication: Top five things to look out for!
What is water intoxication?
Water intoxication is when dogs swallow too much water in a short space of time. It’s rare, but this condition can lead to brain damage and, in extreme circumstances, can be fatal.
Dogs can sometimes swallow too much water when they are swimming, so it’s key that you keep an eye on them when you’re treating them to a cool off.
Five signs that your dog may have water intoxication
Vomiting
Loss of coordination (this can include falling over or swaying)
Bloating
Tiredness
Pale gums
If your dog starts to struggle with their breathing or loses consciousness after playing in the water, call your vet immediately.
How to stop your dog getting water intoxication
Monitor your dog carefully while they’re playing in the water. If they look like they are swallowing a lot of water, take them out and allow them to relax.
Limit the amount of time dogs spend playing in the water to 10 minutes, allowing them to go to the toilet in between swimming sessions and catch their breath
Always carry fresh drinking water with you when at the beach. Swallowing a lot of salt water can lead to salt poisoning which has the same symptoms as water intoxication.
Summer skin and coat
Pale-coloured dogs are vulnerable to sunburn, particularly on their ears, noses and sparsely haired areas. Sun damage can lead to skin cancer which may require extensive surgery – even amputation in severe cases. Sunlight can also make existing skin conditions worse, particularly if your dog has allergies.
The best prevention is to keep your dog indoors when the sun is strongest, between 11.00am and 3.00pm. Alternatively, pop a T-shirt on your dog and cover vulnerable areas to protect them. You can also apply a non-toxic waterproof human sunblock or one specifically made for pets. If your dog’s skin looks sore, crusty or scaly, call your vet.
Take care of your dog’s delicate paws. If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paw pads too. Dog booties can be bought from pet shops and online, or walk your dog at cooler times of the day to prevent their paws burning.
Grooming your dog is important in the summer months, especially for longhaired breeds, to get rid of matts and tangles. A tangle-free coat will protect your pet’s delicate skin and help to keep them cool. Plus, if your pet’s coat is dirty and matted then you run the risk of flies laying their eggs and becoming maggots. Some breeds may need their coats trimming to keep them comfortable. Ask a professional groomer for advice.
If your dog swims or paddles in the sea to keep cool, remember to rinse the salt water and sand from your dog’s coat after to avoid drying out and irritating their skin.
Creepy crawlies and other dangers
Pests that love to bite your dog come out in their droves in summer. Fleas and ticks thrive in the heat and can be a real nuisance to your furry friend.
Fleas
Flea bites are annoying and itchy for most dogs, but if your dog is allergic to them then they can cause real discomfort and severe scratching, which can become infected.
Regular flea treatment is the only way to prevent these little critters – a one-off application won’t be enough. The most effective treatments come from your vet, so ask them for a recommendation.
If your dog has fleas you will need to treat your home as well to get rid of the eggs.
Ticks
Ticks are spider-like, egg-shaped creepy crawlies that are common in woodland, grassland and heath areas.
Ticks carry diseases, so it’s important to remove any that attach themselves to your dog. This can be tricky, as you need to be careful not to squeeze the tick’s body, or allow its head to get stuck inside your dog. Twisting them off your dog is the best removal method, and pet shops sell handy tick-removal devices to make this easier. Ask your vet for advice.
A few dogs catch Lyme disease annually in the UK, following a tick bite, and people can get the disease too.
Lyme disease is serious, so if you live in an area with a deer or sheep population you should consider tick treatment for your dog, which should kill the tick before they can transmit the disease.
Be particularly careful abroad as ticks in Europe can transmit a number of serious diseases.
If you are bitten by a tick, contact your doctor. Wearing trousers and long sleeves when walking through tick-infested areas will help prevent bites.
Bees and wasps
Dogs love to chase buzzing insects, but getting too close can be dangerous.
Most insect stings will simply cause your dog pain and irritation, but multiple stings can be fatal.
Dogs are also at risk when they snap at bees and wasps because this makes them more likely to be stung in the mouth or throat. Stings in these areas are hazardous because any swelling can block your pet’s airway.
If you think your dog has been stung multiple times, or is having an allergic reaction, take them to a vet straight away.
Adders
Adders are the only venomous snake in the UK, and while they tend to stay out of the way of humans and dogs, your pet may encounter one while exploring heathland, woodland or sandy areas.
Adders can be dangerous to dogs if disturbed because they bite when threatened.
If you think your dog has been bitten by an adder, call your vet straight away. Dogs are likely to survive adder bites if they are treated quickly. If you are able to, carry your dog rather than letting them walk to stop the venom spreading.
It’s Atlanta, the South and it is hot and humid already! Heat index readings are already in the triple digits. Take a few minutes to watch this You Tube video on how to recognize and treat heat stroke in your canine companion. Information like this is critical if your pup overdoes it outdoors. Be mindful of the weather condition and be prepared to act! (Also, from the video 40 degrees C is 104 degrees F.)
At Atlanta Lab Rescue, we too have rescued many dogs with embedded collars. It is truly unbelievable that it even happens…Here is a great story of rescue…
Actor and former wrestler Dave Bautista might look tough and intimidating, but he has a soft spot for animals in need. The Humane Society of Tampa Bay shared a story of a 3-month-old Pit Bull named Sage, who had a chain embedded in her neck. Bautista immediately gathered money to use as a reward for information about her abuser.
Amid the search for the suspect, Bautista fell in love with the little pup. He soon adopted her, and now she’s known as Penny Bautista. She’ll never have to experience neglect or abuse ever again!
Penny arrived at the humane society with a chain embedded deep in her neck, which dragged on the ground beside her. The poor pup needed surgery to remove the chain, and she now has a bald spot where the chain was.
A stranger first spotted Penny eating garbage on the side of the road. To their surprise, the puppy ran up to them without hesitation. Even before her intense surgery, Penny was full of love.
“She is very sweet and friendly. Even though she is in immense pain, Sage was wagging her tail on the exam table while our veterinarian and vet techs were examining her,” the Humane Society of Tampa Bay wrote on Facebook. “In addition to the chain, we noticed that Sage has skin issues and overgrown nails. We can’t imagine who would do this to her.”
When Bautista learned about Penny, he shared her story on social media and offered to pay $5,000 in reward money for information. He couldn’t believe anyone would do such a thing to an innocent dog, so he desperately wanted to punish the person responsible. The Humane Society is also offering $1,500, and actor Mickey Rourke pitched in $1,000 for the reward money.
Love at First Sight
It only took a few days for Bautista to realize that he and Penny shared a special bond. So, he adopted her, and her happy face says it all. He promises that she’ll live a life of love and pampering from now on.
“To me, there’s nothing more innocent and pure than a puppy,” Bautista said. “For someone who can abuse a puppy has got to be the lowest form of human being, pure evil, for someone who can abuse an animal like that. It makes me sick to my stomach.”
Penny isn’t the first dog Bautista rescued. In 2019, he also adopted two other Pit Bulls named Maggie and Ollie. So, Penny will be thrilled to have two siblings to play with.
Unfortunately, there isn’t any information yet about the person who neglected Penny. But she doesn’t seem to mind, as long as she has a loving family. This sweet puppy is sure to have the best life possible from this moment on. After all, she deserves it!
A dog’s perspective: Mela the shelter dog shares her story
17 January 2022
Introducing Mela, an adorable shelter dog who survived a rough start in life to later be adopted by her forever family!
Every dog has their own story, especially the dogs you’ll find at your local animal shelter. Mela is one such dog, and below is her story – from a traumatic early beginning, to the safety of a loving home, this story written from her doggy-perspective will be sure to warm your heart! It also highlights the importance and power of adopting a shelter dog. We hope her story will offer you some insight as to what it’s like to be an abandoned, lonely shelter dog lucky enough to find a forever home.
Mela’s humble beginnings
Before I was brought to the animal shelter where I was adopted, I lived with my original owners.
My memories from this time of my life are hazy; I just don’t want to remember the lack of love, misunderstandings, and frequent beatings that characterized this time of my life.
For this reason, it’s hard for me to talk about my upbringing before the shelter. I remember things like sticks and umbrellas being used against me when my owners got angry at me. No matter how hard I tried to be a good girl, it seemed that my behavior, in fact I, was never quite good enough to avoid their constant mistreatment.
Fortunately, at almost two years of age, I was saved from this destructive environment by an animal rescue group. (Psst.. check out the story of one dog rescue center in Ontario, CA.) I’m so grateful that they helped me to get out of that situation. I was taken to an animal shelter, where I began the next interesting phase of my life as a shelter dog…
Living in the animal shelter
At the animal shelter, I was surprised to learn that sticks and other sharp objects were no longer a threat to me. And the people around me seemed to be taking care of and helping me rather than getting angry and violent.
I remember that it took me some time to understand that throwing a stick could not only be painless, but fun to catch!
And that humans can be friends, not only foe. I also made some new four-legged friends at the shelter, just like me!
Once I settled into life at the shelter I quickly realized that I wouldn’t have to spend my days there forever. The place was like a dog dating service and every day I met a new potential family. I started to discover that I was actually a pretty social girl, underneath my initial anxiety. So I was looking for a family or partner who could give me the amount of love, care and devotion I needed to enjoy my newfound life.
Meanwhile my new family was considering all kinds of factors about what kind of dog they should adopt.
Things to consider when adopting a shelter dog
Size
Age
Breed
Gender
Temperament
Activity Level
Hair Length
For the shelter, it was very important to find the perfect match between dog and owner, and all these factors and more were considered in the match-making process. So I hoped I’d have what it takes to find my forever family!
Getting to know each other
It was fun being around other dogs, but my own personal character came out most when I had the chance to be alone with a potential adopter. Therefore, I began to enjoy the times when humans would come to visit me and take me out on walks to get to know each other better. And I started to realize that this was an important step in finding my forever family. Each and every time they came, I felt more and more comfortable around them. Soon I had one family that was my favorite and I was theirs too! I looked forward to every time I had the chance to get out of the shelter with them. I was ready to go to my (new) home!
Adoption at last
Finally, I was adopted! This was a big change for me, and it was initially harder than I expected. I was quite sensitive and a bit insecure; everything was new to me. But I still wanted to be open to my new family. They were very friendly and showed me everything right away. They showed me where I could sleep and rest, where to get my daily meals and they even took me for a walk around the block, to make me feel more secure in the new area. What really helped me at this time were some kindly-enforced rules and discipline, which gave me a sense of stability and security.
At last, the love and care from my new family showed me an new way of living this dog life.
I was allowed to be close to my family as much and as often as I wanted. Because of this, I gained more and more trust in them and our relationship grew stronger and better every day. They often talked with me to make it easier for me to understand their mood. And that made me feel really good and safe around them. So before too long, I was very relaxed in my new home.
It also helped that they provided me with all the basic equipment a new dog needs in their new home.
My new parents loved me so much, they bought me a GPS tracker for dogs. At first, I didn’t know what to expect, but they simply attached it to my collar and I soon forgot it was even there. With the tracker and matching app, they were able to keep track of me at all times. Even when I was trying to run off by myself, I was always relieved to see my owners again. The best part about having a GPS tracker is that my parents can let me explore off-lead sometimes, in areas where that is allowed. They let me roam and unleash all my energy (something my previous owners never would have let me do), and thanks to the tracker, they will always be able to find out where I am and come to me if needed. What a relief!
After three wonderful years with my new family, I’m so thankful for everything that has happened in my life to lead me to this point. Never before have I experienced so much freedom, love, and security!
I hope my story has inspired you to consider adopting a shelter dog! It will mean the world to your furry friend, like it did to me.
Here is some great information from Angie Woods at US Canine & Dog Psychology 101 —
Baby, it’s cold outside… In typical Georgia fashion, the weather has decided to plummet more than forty degrees in a matter of days. It can be a challenge to adjust, for you and your dog. As humans, we tend to hunker indoors with a warm mug, a blanket, and a TV. However, your dog’s idea of a good time is to explore. Dogs in the wild spend each day on the move, largely in search of food. Temperature changes may mean changes in food supply or hunting patterns. Regardless, they want OUT when all you want to do is stay IN. It can be hard to dawn your parka and ‘adventure’ into the wilds of your neighborhood. Remember: Dogs need regular and consistent exercise and mental stimulation. A bored dog with too much energy can quickly turn frustrated and destructive. Regular exercise supports their overall mental and physical well-being and keeps their behavior in check. If weather conditions prevent outdoor activity, get creative providing some exercise indoors. We offer a few ways to do just that. Check out our YouTube video for all the specifics.
The Shell Game and Finders Keepers: Good for food-driven dogs. A progressive strategy of hiding treats and teaching your dog to find them when instructed. Be sure your dog is calm before you treat. Feed calm states of mind, not excitement.
Obedience Training: Commands can be useful in the world and a great way to engage your dog’s brain! Use the time inside to work on a few basics, or your next adorable TikTok video.
Busy Work: A Kong treat-ball smeared with peanut butter, nut butter, cream cheese, or another treat can keep them occupied for some time (Pro Tip: Freeze your treat for an hour to make them work a little harder).
Toys/Balls/Frisbees: Tossing toys in the house can be a great way to get some energy out. A small hallway or set of stairs can work well. Be cautious of your dog’s physicality and modify accordingly and always be cautious when playing in the house.
Treadmill: A great supplement to outdoor walks (watch the video for full guidance on how to train your dog to walk on the treadmill).
Go Outside: Be brave dog person. Suit up and go on an adventure with your dog. The fresh air will do you both some good!
Remember that your dog relies on you to be the leader and to give them what they need both physically and mentally so they can be happy and well-adjusted. Find us on Instagram or Facebook and share your cold weather adventures! You can also drop us a video or photos in our Dropbox! You can check out our website at uscanine.com
Cheers to you, your dog, and your new relationship together!
If you’ve ever watched the movie, “Elf” and I’m sure you have…many times, the overall theme is that Buddy never stopped believing and he never stopped trying no matter what obstacles he faced. At the end of the movie, “believing” is what powered Santa’s sleigh on Christmas eve.
“Believing” is also what made it possible for Atlanta Lab Rescue to save more dogs this year than ever before. You believed in us and supported us and made it all possible. Whether you adopted, volunteered, donated or all of the above, YOU “powered” this rescue and enabled us to give hope and in many cases, healing, to so many deserving dogs.
Believing is what made a Christmas miracle come true for a dog named Jules. A beautiful black lab, Jules was rescued from a shelter in south Georgia with heartworms and an eye condition called entropion. Surgery with heartworms is always a risk, but she made it through a spay and then eye surgery and after several months in boarding, she was finally on her way to her forever home with a family in SC. They drove down to get her the weekend before Christmas and by the time they got home she was gasping for air and ended up in the ER. X-rays showed that she had a hole in her lung that was leaking air and she needed to be transferred to a specialist for surgery or she would die. The ER vet was not optimistic that Jules would make it through the surgery, especially with the heartworms, and that the $7-10,000 price tag for a rescue would make it even more unrealistic. Although the adopters had only had her a few hours, they were committed to Jules, and so were we. She had surgery the next day to remove a lobe from one of her lungs, and Jules, who now had a loving family and home to fight for, pulled through. Your support made the impossible, possible and not once did her new family turn their back on her or wish for another dog. We all “believed” and Jules spent her first Christmas with her new family.
Atlanta Lab Rescue never stops believing that there’s a home for every dog, and with your help we turn lives around, theirs and maybe yours too. Many of you support us with a monthly PayPal donation, or on a $5 Friday when money gets tight. You signed up for the 5k and made it a huge success, and the GAGives campaign, which started with a $40,000 goal, finished at $90,000 and was matched by our own Charlie Kleman, who also drove close to 60,000 miles this year transporting our dogs. With your help, ALR was able to pay off all of our debts, and fund $11,000 of orthopedic surgeries in December, as well as a miracle…or two.
Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year, hug your dog (or cat) and don’t stop believing….
Whether it is New Year, the 4th of July or a party in your Neighborhood…..please take a moment to read this article and be mindful of your dog! More dogs are lost during the 4th of July than any other time of the year!
Independence Day is coming soon and although it should be a day of celebration, it’s one of the most dreaded holidays for pet owners. Even where fireworks are illegal, there always seems to be someone setting them off near home. For our dogs, this can resemble the destruction of the Earth. The loud bangs and heavy vibrations can be frightening for our dogs and it can become difficult to calm them down during the chaos. Thankfully, there are some things we can do to help ease their stress.
#1 – Stay With Your Dog
Many people feel that staying with your dog during times of extreme anxiety only perpetuates their behavior, but this is likely not the case. Although destructive behavior due to anxiety can be managed with training, you don’t want to begin addressing this issue during a period of extreme fear. Dogs are pack animals and they naturally want to be with their families when they’re afraid, so leaving them alone can greatly worsen the situation. Even if your dog is crated, make sure you stay in the same room with them.
#2 – Provide A Shelter
Dogs naturally want to seek shelter from something that’s frightening them, even if they can’t place their anxiety on any one specific thing (in the case of fireworks, they can usually only hear and feel the scary thing, not see it). Many owners view crates as a bad thing, but it’s really quite the opposite. When used properly, your dog’s crate turns into their safe place or den during times of stress and anxiety. Fill it with your dogs favorite toys, blankets or even some clothes that smell like you to help them feel more comfortable inside. Offering this type of shelter gives your dog the option to safely hide and feel much more secure in their environment.
#3 – Try Natural Therapies
More and more owners are turning towards natural remedies when it comes to managing their dogs’ health. As with any natural treatment, you’ll want to consult your veterinarian to make sure the remedies you use are safe for your pup. For dogs that have mild anxieties, natural therapies seem to work quite well. For example, Project Paws™ Advanced All-Natural Calming Chews for Dogs contain anxiety relieving valerian root, organic chamomile and organic passionflower.
Sometimes, especially if the anxiety is severe, natural therapies are not enough to help your dog find relief. In these cases, seeking the help of your veterinarian is ideal. There are anxiety medications that dogs can take regularly or during times of extreme stress, such as on the 4th of July. A professional dog trainer can also help you manage your dog’s anxiety, especially if they become destructive and a danger to themselves. Whatever route you decide to take, or both if necessary, it’s important to remain your dog’s advocate and make sure that whatever you do to help ease your dog’s anxiety will keep them safe and comfortable.
Atlanta Lab Rescue has exciting news to share. We were one of only 77 animal welfare groups in the US to receive a grant from The Grey Muzzle Organization that makes grants expressly for programs designed to improve the lives of at-risk senior dogs. This money will enable us to continue to rescue dogs like Oreo, Rusty, Hershey, Charlie, and many more older dogs that get passed over, many times, due to health issues. Our “pack” says THANK YOU to The Grey Muzzle Organization!
Throughout the process of writing a scholarship essay, there are several essential factors to remember. For one thing, you should write an essay that tells a story. It should be a unique and personal account of you. In addition, it should be grammatically correct. After writing the first draft, run a spellcheck and grammar check to check for mistakes. While these tools may not be perfect, they can help you make sure that you don’t miss any important details.
In your second draft
Don’t let careless mistakes ruin your chances of winning a scholarship. Scholarship committees regularly check applicants’ information through research tools, so you need to tell the truth! Spelling and grammar check software does not catch all errors, so you should have someone else read your essay for mistakes. Make sure to double-check names, as careless mistakes can send your scholarship essay to the “no” pile!
In your third draft
The first draft is always a mess, so it’s important to keep editing until you have a well-written essay. Make sure the essay flows well and has easy to follow transitions. It also helps if you read it out loud to make sure it’s readable.
In your fourth draft
The first step in writing a winning scholarship essay is to decide on the main topic of your essay. Then, decide which angle you want to take. The angle you choose does not necessarily need to reflect your personality, but rather how you want your audience to see you. For instance, you might want to write about a recent experience that has changed your life. This is a great way to add interest and depth to your essay.
In your fifth draft
Tips on How to Write a Winning Scholarship Essay – https://latinamericanpost.com/41942-how-to-write-a-winning-scholarship-essayy. It starts with a strong hold. This hook should clearly illustrate your point and promote your strengths without sounding boastful. The more genuine your essay is, the better the chance of obtaining financial aid from a scholarship.
In your sixth draft
When you write a scholarship essay, you must distinguish yourself from the rest of the applicants. In this sense, you should never speak ill of other applicants and focus on your own merits. For instance, if the scholarship essay asks you to describe your personal or professional goals, avoid using over-simplified statements like “I want to become a nurse” or “I want to become a better writer.”
Here is a nice article from Purina on traveling with your dog this summer. It is a good quick read and will provide some great tips for a happy and healthy vacation for all!
Planning a Trip? Support Your Dog’s Immune System with FortiFlora
Regardless of the season or where the next trip takes you and your dog, traveling can be stressful for your hunting partner. By doing your homework and planning ahead, you can help ensure your dog’s safety and comfort while on the road. Follow these tips to help simplify your journey, regardless of the time and distance.
Meal Prep for Your Dog
If you’re on a weeklong trip in remote areas, the odds of finding a quality performance dog food, such as Purina Pro Plan SPORT Performance 30/20 Formula, may be challenging. Proportion your dog’s food so you have an ample supply. You’ll likely feed your dog slightly more than usual during a multiday event, so be sure to pack extra. A good rule of thumb to gauge a dog’s food consumption is one pound of food per dog per day.
Bring Your Own Water
A change in water source, especially going from hard to soft water, can upset your dog’s GI system, increasing his or her risk of diarrhea and potentially causing dehydration and overheating. Dehydration can be dangerous because it increases your dog’s heart’s workload, impairs the delivery of nutrients and removal of waste from the muscles, and reduces your dog’s ability to maintain a normal body temperature. Bring several gallons of water from home as a consistent source, or use bottled water while traveling. To help encourage your dog to drink when away from home, bait his or her water with a small handful of kibble. On hot travel days, you can also cut blocks of ice and place in your dog’s bowl in his or her crate in the back of your truck or trailer for the dog to lick.
Stock Up on First-Aid Essentials
Canine first aid is crucial when you’re far from a veterinarian. Brush up on your basic knowledge of performing first aid and replenish your kit with these supplies:absorbent gauze pads, elastic bandages, tape, tweezers, antiseptic, antibiotic ointment, antihistamine, saline solution, and any veterinarian-prescribed or recommended medications.
Build an Insurance Policy
Research veterinarians who can treat hardworking dogs that are located every couple of hundred miles along your planned route and near your final destination. You should also look for 24/7 emergency veterinary clinics if you’ll be traveling at night. Jot down all names and contact information and keep in a handy place, such as inside your first-aid kit.
Customize Your Packing List
Every destination has unique packing requirements. For example, if you’re headed to Montana, you may want to bring a Quill Jig and needle-nosed pliers in case your dog comes across a porcupine, or if you’re crossing into Canada, you’ll need a veterinarian-signed copy of your dog’s rabies vaccination, as well as a health certificate for puppies 8 months of age and younger, to get through customs hassle-free.
Comfort Is King
Despite travel not being restful for a dog, you can at least do all you can to ensure his or her comfort. In warm weather, keep a frozen water bottle in your dog’s crate so he or she can lick the condensation to stay cool between stops. In cold weather, bring a vest and boots to keep your dog warm, a shammy to keep him or her dry, a cover to insulate his or her crate, and a ½-inch pad or piece of Styrofoam to place under the crate to keep him or her off of cold surfaces. Regardless of the season, don’t forget a crate lock for security.
Brake for Rest Areas
Map out rest areas along your route that are situated away from traffic and suitable for dog airing. Some Cabela’s locations even have a reserved area for dogs. Plan to stop every couple of hours to air and exercise your dog on a leash, and know that puppies may need more frequent breaks.
Don’t Skimp on Stake Outs
Bring enough tie-out cables and stakes for as many dogs as you’re traveling with so that in case of emergency, such as a vehicle breakdown, your dogs are secure while you tend to the situation at hand.
Mind Your P’s & Q’s
Basic obedience is important at all times, but especially during travel. The last thing you want when you’re stopped is to open your vehicle door and have your dog bolt out and run around aimlessly. This puts your dog at risk of being hit by a car or getting into something he or she shouldn’t, such as diesel fuel or antifreeze. Avoid accidents while stopped in a parking lot of rest area by training your dog to “stay” when you open the vehicle door or dog box. It’s also a good idea to keep your dog on lead in busy areas. If you find a safe, remote area to air your dog off lead, make sure you can stay in control of your dog and clean up any mess.
BONUS: The One Thing to Never Leave Home Without
You should always pack a thermometer in your first-aid kit, especially during summer travel. If you’re worried about your dog overheating, stop and take his or her temperature. If it’s as high as 107 degrees Fahrenheit, get your dog into the shade and cool him or her down, making sure the temperature comes down. If it doesn’t, take your dog to a veterinarian right away.
Planning a Trip? Boost Your Dog’s Immunity with FortiFlora
Traveling can cause stress that can affect a dog’s immune system. To help support your dog’s immune system health, keep a supply of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora canine probiotic supplement handy. Available through your veterinarian or online at www.proplanvetdirect.com, FortiFlora contains a special strain of probiotic that promotes normal intestinal microflora. After consulting with your veterinarian, consider starting FortiFlora a few weeks before leaving on a trip to increase levels of beneficial bacteria and promote a strong immune system, and continue administering it a few weeks after arriving at your destination.
Back for the 4th year, “Bourbon, Barbecue and Best of Breed” is the event that you have been waiting for…IN PERSON!!Join us at the beautiful Donaldson-Bannister Farm in Dunwoody for food, fun and field trial demos…add bourbon and beer tasting, cornhole, music, silent auction and yes, we will have the GA vs. SC game playing for the ultimate “tailgate.” Purchase your tickets TODAY!Get your TICKETS Here!** Tickets limited to 350 ** For Sponsorship opportunities, please email us at info@atlantalabrescue.com
BB & B is one of our annual fundraisers with all proceeds benefitting Atlanta Lab Rescue. We ask that you leave your young children and young pups (or older pups) at home for this adult event. Thank you!
Remember, you can bring all of your children and all dogs to the Annual Atlanta Lab Rescue 5k later this year! Check our website for sign up!
Please join us for the 7th annual Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K on Saturday, November 13th, 2021. The race this year will be a trail race through the beautiful Still Family Farm in Powder Springs, GA. Dogs are welcome as usual! After the race is completed, stick around for a fall festival with activities for dogs, kids and participants. Your registration fee will include a long sleeve t-shirt featuring our fan favorite race logo!
Want to run in the ALR 5k? This year our 5K course will be a trail race through Still Family Farm. We are offering both timed and untimed options for the live event. We are also offering a virtual option again this year. You can sign up at https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/PowderSprings/AtlantaLabRescue
Ready to be a sponsor of the ALR 5k? We have all levels of sponsorships available. If you are interested in sponsoring our race, please email mackhea@gmail.com and we can provide you with additional information.
Here is a fun article from I Heart Dogs! Can you guess the Number One Most Affectionate Dog Breed?
What could be better than dog kisses and canine cuddles? These breeds aren’t afraid to show their love for you, in fact, they insist on it! Having one of these breeds means having a personal snuggle machine in your home. If you’ve got space in your bed or on your couch for a cuddle buddy and free hands for belly rubs, consider adopting one of the dogs on this list!
#10 – Brussels Griffon
This charming little dog steals the hearts of everyone they meet, and good thing too. He wouldn’t be happy if he wasn’t getting attention from everyone in the room.
#9 – Great Dane
Known as the over-grown lap dog, these gentle giants are as affectionate as they come, often leaning on their person to beg for attention.
If you don’t own one, this may come as a shock to you, but the Am. Staff is known for being people-orientated and loving with a personality similar to the Labrador retriever.
#7 – Bichon Frise
Often seen as the epitome of the “lap dog,” it’s easy to see why 18th Century French royals were taken with this loving little dog.
Often called the “happy herder” because of its bouncing personality, this collie loves attention. Their smile when they greet you says it all – “I Don’t Know You, But I Love You”
#4 – Italian Greyhound
A miniature of the full-size greyhound, this doe-eyed dog would rather be giving kisses then winning a race.
#3 – Bedlington Terrier
While terriers are often thought of as independent, this high energy breed has a real soft side. They are very content lap dogs and are often pushy about getting attention.
#2 – Golden Retriever
Also known for its loving nature, the golden retriever is commonly used for therapy work due to its friendly attitude toward everyone, even strangers.
No surprise that this breed made this list. Labrador retrievers are known for their sweet, loving disposition. No wonder they make sure great service dogs.
Here is a great link from Angie Woods of US Canine and Dog Psychology 101 on Separation Anxiety and your dog. Take a few minutes to view the video – we hope is it helpful!
We like to post this article each year because SO many people want to give a puppy as a Christmas present. For most all cases, this is the worst idea ever and there are countless reasons why. People get emotional around the holidays and many times do it anyway, then we get the dogs and usually they are not in good shape, around January / February as owner surrenders. Stop and read this article and take a suggestion – Instead of giving a puppy to someone (who might not be ready) HERE IS THE BEST SOLUTION – Give them a leash and a collar wrapped in a box with a bow….then make the promise to pick the right puppy or dog when the TIME IS RIGHT FOR ALL! This is really a great idea when you think about it. Some folks will even foster before adopting to make sure a dog is a good fit for them! PLEASE avoid putting these innocent animals through so much turmoil and in some cases worse. If you really want a puppy or young dog, take it slow and think it through! You will be happier and so will the pup!
It is that time of year again…..and it happens every January to pretty much every rescue group we talk to and it happens to Atlanta Lab Rescue too…….Not even 24 hours after the excitement of a new puppy for Christmas and people are calling rescue groups and dumping puppies at the shelters all around Atlanta and beyond. It happens all the time – for some reason, somebody thinks it is a great idea to get a puppy for an unsuspecting person or child – NOT A GOOD IDEA! That is pretty much the worst idea for a Christmas gift. A puppy or a dog is a living animal that will require years of attention, exercise, food and care. Many lab and lab mix dogs live up to 16 years! That is a long time to commit to and if you are not ready and have not thought it out, Christmas is NOT the time to make such a far reaching decision.
On Christmas Day last year, we received a request to take in an owner surrender – on Christmas Day! Go figure….they couldn’t even wait a day. The family had grown tired of the dog already. Puppies are puppies and many dogs remain puppyish for years to come………..especially labs!
Here is the bottom line on Puppies –
They have lots of energy – because they are puppies
They pee on the carpet – because they haven’t been properly trained yet and their bladder is the size of a walnut
They bark – because they are unsure of their new surroundings
They don’t know how to walk on a leash yet – because they haven’t been trained
They can be fearful of small children – because small children generally don’t know how to treat a puppy
They can throw up – because you might be feeding them the wrong food or table scraps
They need periodic vet visits – because they are not fully immunized
They have to pee every 2 hours – because they are puppies and their bladder is the size of a walnut
They need consistent training and interaction – because they are puppies
That puppy will grow up to be an absolute reflection of the care you give it from day one!
Too often we get requests to take in dogs that are very young, not trained, snarly and generally not the best pets – why? Because someone treated that dog terribly as a puppy – neglected it and generally treated it like a stuffed animal. Well guess what, these wonderful little four legged ones are like little kids, they need constant attention and care to mature properly. And when we take in these young dogs, we spend money and time, neither of which is in great supply, to rehab them to be great dogs that we can adopt out again…..I personally adopted a puppy about two and a half years ago….I can tell you, I thought it out long before bringing him home! I made absolutely sure I could give him all he needed to grow into a great dog and he has done just that because I put in the time. For the first 2 weeks, taking him out to pee every 2-4 hours….around the clock! Guess what? It takes time and patience! Do you have a good supply of that after a 10 hour work day, child activities, dinner and general time to do household chores and such? You can’t just toss the dog in the back yard either…..
If this article is speaking to you, take time with your puppy or new dog……don’t make the mistake thousands will make in a few weeks, dropping the ball and dumping the dog at the shelter. The shelters become overrun quickly and owner surrendered dogs are the first to be put down….as in immediately. The shelters don’t have the space. If you end up giving your dog up to ANY rescue, make a financial donation to help defer costs.
Think about it long and hard before doing anything…remember, you are the one who wanted the puppy, you owe it to the puppy or dog to give it your best.
Licking and chewing of the toes and paws is a common behavior among dogs. While some degree of licking is considered normal, dogs with red, swollen paws or chronic saliva staining likely have an underlying medical problem.
There are several reasons a dog may chew their paws such as dry skin, wounds, growths, irritants like burrs or ticks, anxiety, and allergic skin disease.
Whatever the cause of the irritation, paw-chewing can lead to pain, limping and secondary yeast or bacterial infections. It is important to consult with your veterinarian about your dog’s diet, lifestyle, and environment so that he or she can determine the best treatment plan.
While only a professional can treat serious veterinary issues like lick granulomas, tumors of the paw, skin infections, and chronic allergies, there are things you can do at home to reduce paw licking caused by dry skin or contact dermatitis.
Wipe your pup’s paws. Every time your pooch walks outside, he or she comes in contact with potential allergens and irritants like pollen and lawn chemicals. If you have a paw-chewer in your household, try cleaning their feet with grooming wipes after each walk or romp in the yard.
Reduce allergen exposure. In addition to outdoor allergens that travel inside on our clothes and shoes, several indoor substances can also aggravate your dog’s skin. Dust mites, pet dander, cleaning chemicals, and cigarette smoke are just a few of the many potential household irritants. While there is no way to completely eliminate certain molecules, keeping the dirt and dust to a minimum and frequently laundering your dog’s bedding can work wonders.
Weather proof your home. Hot, moist weather can be particularly difficult for dogs with dermatitis, while winter’s utter lack of humidity can wreak havoc on dry-skinned pups. Keep your home soothingly air conditioned from the summer heat and use a humidifier to reduce irritation in dry winter conditions.
Choose a healthy diet. The more wholesome your pup’s diet, the better equipped their systems will be to fight off allergens and external irritants. If your dog has food sensitivities, be sure to check labels carefully to ensure you are feeding an allergen-free diet. Consult your vet about whether a limited ingredient, grain-free diet is right for your pooch.
Add an Omega fatty acid supplement. Omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids are derived from fish oils and plant-based sources. They benefit your dog’s skin by helping to keep their own natural oils at healthy levels and acting as anti-inflammatories to reduce the intensity of allergens.
Happy, Healthy Omega-3-6-9 Select soft chews are excellent sources of omega fatty acids and have been recently revamped to contain krill meal rather than the salmon oil commonly used by other brands. Krill meal packs a significantly more concentrated and pure source of omega fatty acids, making it the superior choice.
The new formula was also designed to allow pups with food sensitivities to reap the skin-nourishing benefits of omega fatty acids without the risk of irritation. These delicious treats are now 100% gluten-free, grain-free, and soy-free!
Behave Atlanta has created this video exclusively for ALR as a virtual version of their “dog starter kit” class for anyone bringing a new dog into the home. They cover everything from house rules to beginning training techniques. Amy and Lillian answer the frequent “what do I do when?” questions and give you a tool kit for approaching the most common hurdles of the first month. It’s free, it’s only an hour, and you can watch it in the bathtub. What’s not to like? Click here to Watch!
The global understanding of COVID-19 is ever evolving. Experts continue to agree that transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is primarily person to person. As part of our research we have reviewed over 5,000 specimens submitted to IDEXX Reference Laboratories for respiratory tests of sick cats and dogs in 17 different countries. To date, IDEXX still has seen no positive results in pets of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus strain responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) respiratory outbreak in humans. This would seem to suggest dogs and cats living with infected people generally seem to remain uninfected, except in rare and isolated cases.
Note: The PCR tests referenced in relation to the Hong Kong dogs and cats, the Belgian cat and the NYC tiger were NOT done by IDEXX nor at an IDEXX Reference Laboratory.
While there is currently no evidence that dogs or cats play a role in transmitting the disease to humans, isolated reports of weak positive results for SARS-CoV-2 in two dogs and two cats in Hong Kong, a cat in Belgium and now a tiger at a New York zoo suggest there may be varying levels of susceptibility to infections in animals that require further study. Cats and ferrets may be more susceptible to clinical infections while dogs seem generally resistant to infection, likely due to species differences in their ACE receptors1-3 which the virus uses to enter the cells.1
A cat in Belgium living in close contact with a COVID-19 infected owner presented with transient respiratory signs, vomiting and diarrhea while a cat in Hong Kong that tested PCR positive did not exhibit any clinical signs. A tiger in a New York zoo is the only known big cat infected with COVID-19. Public health officials believe the tiger had been in the vicinity of a zoo employee who was positive for the COVID-19 virus.
None of the three dogs for which PCR tests came back positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus have shown symptoms that would indicate infection. A geriatric Pomeranian dog with pre-existing conditions living in a household with infected humans in Hong Kong was reported to have tested a weak positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. At no time did the dog develop clinical signs consistent with COVID-19 infection. A second dog from the same household consistently tested negative. In another Hong Kong home, a dog living with a COVID-19 positive human also tested PCR positive for the virus but showed no clinical signs of infection.
With this collected body of evidence, leading veterinary and public health experts continue to reassure pet owners there is low likelihood of pet infection and even lower likelihood of our pets serving as a source of infection. In symptomatic pets, it is more likely that disease is caused by a more common respiratory infection than by COVID-19. We learn more every day, and if we deem it clinically important to commercialize our IDEXX SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) RealPCR Test, we will make it available for veterinarians and their patients.
Constance E. De Haan, DVM, MA, DACVR, Medical Director IDEXX
Atlanta Lab Rescue is thankful we continue to receive a record number of applications during this unexpected “stay at home” time. As of now, we continue to place dogs and complete adoptions. However, before applying to adopt a dog, we would ask that you seriously consider your WANTS versus your NEEDS. We do our best to educate adopters, especially when it comes to young dogs that need LOTS of time and training. We must ensure that people are not just considering adoption because they are at home, have extra time, and want the companionship of a dog. The reality is, we will all be getting back to a normal routine in the coming months and then what?
PLEASE consider what your schedule will look like once normalcy returns before you apply, and make certain that you will still be able to meet the demands of your new dog.
We are rescuing dogs daily! They come in all sizes, shapes and ages. Do yourself a favor and really consider what you NEED as opposed to what you think you WANT!
Due to our current situation in the Atlanta area, and across the Southeast and US, we are temporarily suspending our normal monthly adoptions. WE ARE STILL RESCUING DOGS FROM SHELTERS!! We are still working everything else we do on a normal basis. Please check our website and Facebook page on a regular basis for updates and to find the love of your life in one of our great ALR Dogs!
Any questions, please post to our website or email us at info@atlantalabrescue.com
Thank you and again, we will continue to the good work we do of savings dogs!
If you are looking for an Australian online casino, you’ve probably come across Realtime Gaming. This software provider is an excellent choice for Aussie players because their websites offer a wide selection of pokies and table games, as well as live dealer games. Here, we’ll go over what RTG offers in Australia, and what it’s like to play at one of these online casinos. Then, you can decide whether you want to join a casino that offers Australian RTG games.
Realtime Gaming When looking for a real money online casino in Australia, look no further than Realtime Gaming. This company was established in 1998 and has since expanded to several countries. Currently, it offers more than 300 different games that are designed to provide players with the best experience possible, so you should read the review about the best Real Time Gaming casino games. These games include video slots, classic table games, poker, and more. Australian players have access to a wide variety of titles and can choose from the many varieties of RTG casino games available.
Pokies Most Australian RTG Casinos offer pokies, which are popular games for online gambling. The range of pokies offered by RTG Casinos is vast. They feature classic casino games such as Roulette and Blackjack, and newer versions of video poker games. These games have made RTG a leading name in online gaming. There are even several RTG casinos that focus on pokies, and you can find all of them right here.
Table games Australian RTG Casinos offer a variety of table games. Table games include baccarat, blackjack, roulette, and video poker. Players will find that the selection of table games is quite large. Moreover, the RTG casino suite includes a large variety of specialty games. Players will find classic casino games such as Sic Bo, Bingo, and Keno, as well as games such as Hot Dice, which are unique to RTG casinos.
Live dealer games When you play live casino games, you have the option to interact with the dealer in real time. This type of game can be particularly exciting for Australian players. In addition to live dealer games, RTG casinos have a variety of other casino classics such as blackjack. Players can even play against real people from other countries and communicate in real time. You can also play games such as baccarat and roulette, and you can even try out your luck at video poker!
PayPal In Australia, players can play online casino games with PayPal. PayPal is the largest online e-wallet service. It has many advantages over traditional banking, including the ability to manage money while playing casino games. Additionally, it facilitates table bets. Unlike some Australian casinos, PayPal allows players to fund their accounts without having to deal with credit cards. To avoid any issues when making deposits and withdrawals, Australian RTG casinos accept PayPal.
We are gearing up for our annual 5k Race and want to share some great information and wonderful volunteering and sponsorship opportunities!
ALR needs volunteers for the Atlanta Lab Rescue 5th Annual 5k! The 5th year of the race is right around the corner and we are looking for volunteers to help with the planning and race day! If you are interested in volunteering for this great event please email vickijmann@gmail.com. As an added benefit, all volunteers will get a free volunteer t-shirt to wear on race day!
Ready to be a sponsor of the ALR 5k? We have all levels of sponsorships available. If you are interested, please fill out the sponsorship packet. If you have any questions about sponsorship please email mackhea@gmail.com.
Please make sure to like our Facebook page Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K and share with your family and friends! We look forward to seeing you on the course #ALR5K2019.
We get a lot of questions about Labs and Lab mix dogs and puppies – everything from picking the right dog for your family to training, food, exercise and much more. We thought we would share this great resource with some very informative information.
Check out The Labrador Site for some great information on dogs, training, puppies, feeding, and much more!
Thank you so much to all the sponsors, volunteers and participants for your support for the 4th annual Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K. Your support has allowed Atlanta Lab Rescue to save more dogs from abusive and/or neglected situations or from overcrowded shelters. This was our biggest year yet with over 600 runners and we have heard from many that this was the best one yet! Please mark your calendars for next year’s race which will be Sunday, November 17th at Jim Miller Park.
It has been a particularly brutal summer as it pertains to owners dumping their dogs in shelters and we have been 10-20 dogs over our usual maximum capacity. That being said, these three seniors have been at the shelter in Cobb County for many weeks and the likely won’t be able to hold them much longer, so we thought a little marketing might catch someone’s eye and these 3 could be saved.
The yellow one is Annabelle and she is 10 years old and 54 pounds, The chocolate is Duke, who is 13 years old and 82 pounds. The black one is Bear who is 10 years old and 49 pounds. All are from the same home and all are vetted, spayed and neutered and heartworm free. They are low key, even lower maintenance and fine with other dogs and people.
They have several lumps and bumps on them which are very likely benign lipomas that most labs get and even if not, at their age you would be hard pressed to want to do surgery. ALR would be willing to get these dogs out of the shelter and make them permanent fosters, covering future vetting and preventatives if needed, if someone would take them home and let them live their lives out in peace.
If you can help please email us at info@atlantalabrescue.com . We appreciate anyone who wants to help, but please only email if you think you have a viable solution for them.
The 4th Annual ALR 5K – #ALR5K2018 – is back and is going to be even bigger and better this year and we hope you will consider joining us for this fun family morning. The race is in full effect for planning and we are looking for sponsors, runners, walkers and volunteers.
If you are interested in volunteering please email vickijmann@gmail.com for more information.
The race is currently looking for sponsors. We have all levels of sponsorship available. What a great way to get your business recognized with 800+ people! The sponsorship packet can be accessed by clicking on the following link: ALR 5K Sponsor Kit 2018
If you have additional sponsorship questions, please feel free to email Heather Mack Coyle at mackhea@gmail.com.
Lastly and most important….To sign up for this awesome race CLICK HERE
This race is a Peachtree Road Race Qualifier – USATF Certification # GA17050WC.
Please don’t forget to like our Facebook page- Atlanta Lab Rescue 5K this will always have the most up-to-date information about the race.
Atlanta Lab Rescue will have a booth at this great festival coming up in July! Should be a great time for people and our 4 legged companions! Come on out and visit our booth and check out a few ALR Dogs that might be your forever companion!
Doggie Daze, a Blue Heron tradition, is a morning full of friendship and exploration! Come out for a guided creek walk, dog adoption, doggie fashion show, and so much more.
Doggie Daze will occur on July 14th, 2018. Learn more and register here.
Once you’ve donated, tell your friends by sharing on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or the social media platform of your choice. Let’s show them how much heart GEORGIA has!!! 
THANKS TO YOU, DREAMS COME TRUE!
Once you’ve donated, tell your friends by sharing on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or the social media platform of your choice. Let’s show them how much heart GEORGIA has!!! 
Maddy in the leaves. Photo Courtesy of Pat Koven, LVT, KPA-CTP
Clancy on his long line. Photo Courtesy of Pat Koven, LVT, KPA-CTP
Casey stands on pebbles. Photo Courtesy of Pat Koven, LVT, KPA-
