Lace up your running shoes…The 10th Annual Atlanta Lab Rescue 5k Runis coming up on November 10th
We’re expecting a record turnout, and hopefully that includes YOU! This year we’ll be back at Westside Park, on the Beltline. Atlanta’s newest and largest greenspace, has a course that’s perfect for runners, walkers, strollers, wheelchairs, and dogs. Winding through this beautifully landscaped park, you’ll see stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. Come and meet some of Atlanta Lab Rescue’s adoptable dogs, there is even a playground for the kids, and PLENTY of parking!
If you’re not a runner or won’t be around that weekend, you can still support us by registering as a “Virtual Runner” and you still get a t-shirt. So what are you waiting for? You can register until the day of the race, but the price will go up on 11/6.
If you want to help out, become an Atlanta Lab Rescue 5k Volunteer! You will have lots of fun and get a super cool T Shirt too! Click Here to Become a Volunteer!
Walk – Run – Bring Your Dog – Push a Stroller – Run Virtually! Register Thank you to our Sponsors! Top Dog Sponsor KT Pet Sitting Big Dog Sponsor Cobb County Toyota Good Dog Sponsors Brasfield & Gorrie Lexi Canoe Strong Hold Roofing Puppy Dog Sponsors Ben and Jesse Michelle Allen Insurance Agency Lab Cab David and Christy Hill Lazy Labrador Coffee House Doguroo Café of Life Animal Adjustment CrossFit Combine Revolution Chiropractic
Atlanta Lab Rescue, Inc | PO Box 250206 | Atlanta, GA 30325 US
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.
Looking for your new best friend? Plan accordingly and mark these dates for Atlanta Lab Rescue Adoption Days!
December 1st
And be sure to mark your calendars for November 10th to attend the Atlanta Lab Rescue 5k!
Check out website for any updates, locations and possible changes in the dates due to weather considerations. Thank you for supporting Atlanta Lab Rescue
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.
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….
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
If you’re a dog lover with one dog, chances are at some point you will ask yourself, “Does my puppy need a friend?” Besides, if one dog is great, wouldn’t two dogs double the awesome?
Yes. And no. And maybe.
There are lots of great reasons to bring a second dog into your home. And an equally number of great reasons not to.
The first big question to ask yourself is whether or not you have the time, money, energy and other resources to devote to a second dog. Two dogs means twice as much money for food, veterinarian bills, grooming, toys, treats and boarding. It also means — and this is a big one — twice as much dedicated one-on-one time to play with each pup.
Many people get a second dog in the hopes the dog will provide companionship and exercise for their first dog, thereby relieving them of these responsibilities. But while a second dog can definitely help in that regard, both dogs will still need both of those things from their human. That means twice as many games of fetch and hide-and-go-seek and two leashes to get tangled on walks.
That leads to the next big question: Does your dog even want a friend? Surprisingly, not all dogs like the company of other dogs. Just because they may seem bored doesn’t mean that another dog is the answer. In fact, it could make a dog feel threatened to have to share his space and valuable human-bonding time with another. This is especially true for dogs that are older and/or ill.
If you’re thinking about getting a second dog to help cure the behavior problems of the first dog, think again. “A second dog won’t miraculously make the first dog well-behaved,” says Tonya Wilhelm, dog training specialist and author of several dog training books including, “Please Stay-Help For A Dog With Separation Anxiety.” In fact, the new dog could simply pick up the bad behaviors — such as sofa chewing or counter surfing — of the old dog. Now you have double the trouble! Wilhelm recommends focusing on training and attention for your first dog before you consider adding another.
Finding the perfect second pet
Finding a second dog is like matchmaking: Choose a pet that has the same interests has your current pooch. (Photo: Ksenia Raykova/Shutterstock)
But let’s say that you do have the time, money and energy to focus on a second dog and you know that your first dog would love a buddy. How do you find a dog that will be a good fit for your family?
“Matchingmaking is key,” says Wilhelm. Think about your dog’s personality and the kind of dogs that she has enjoyed playing with. Is she a quiet dog who loves napping? Or an active pup who likes to get out and play? When you take her on walks does she shy away from big dogs while straining the leash to sniff the little guys? Look for a pooch with a personality that’s similar to that of your pup.
Age is another factor to consider here. “Young dogs tend to accept new pets more readily than crotchety set-in-their-ways canines,” says animal behavior consultant Amy Shojai, author of “ComPETability: Solving Behavior Problems in Your Multi-Dog Household.” If your dog is older, a bouncy puppy that is jumping, chewing and body-slamming may not be a good fit, notes Wilhelm.
Finally, both Wilhelm and Shojai agree that opposite sex is best when it comes to dog pairings. Just make sure that both dogs are neutered or you may have even more dog trouble than you bargained for! Depending upon the dogs’ personalities, male-male or female-female pairings can work, too. But there may be more issues with competition that you will need to keep an eye on until they figure out their place in the pack.
If possible, the best way to find out for sure how your dog will react to a second dog is to do a meet-and-greet, preferably on neutral territory. And even if that goes well, be prepared to help smooth the transition once the new dog comes home. “Even if there are no issues at the adoption area, there may be issues once the new pet comes to the home,” says Dr. Judy Morgan, a holistic veterinarian who is also the author of “What’s For Dinner Dexter? Cooking For Your Dog Using Chinese Medicine Theory.” “Some dogs will suddenly become protective of toys, food bowls, and owners when a new dog is introduced,” adds Morgan.
From the start, make sure that you have two dog bowls, two leashes, and plenty of dog food, treats and toys to go around. And don’t forget to give both dogs plenty of your time, but especially the dog who has been with you from the start. With the right planning, training and attention, bringing a second dog into your home really will double the awesome — bringing your pack many years of fun and friendship.
It ain’t easy being me… the director of a LAB rescue.You know the #1 breed for 23 years!!! Could that be the reason that every single dog in every shelter is a LAB or LAB MIX??? What was I thinking? Next time I’ll rescue Chinese Crested or some other obscure breed that you’d likely never see in a shelter… Instead I get bombarded all day, every day with sad pictures of labs (along with every other breed mix and cats), many hit by cars, others pregnant (or puppies with no moms) and then there are the dogs that have been chained out and starved within an inch of their lives. It never gets better and sometimes I wonder how much more I can take. As bad as it is to look at all the sad, deserving faces, the thing I hate worse is asking for donations. Every time I turn around the bills for vetting, boarding and training are through the roof. In the last couple of months, we’ve had to cut the number of dogs in the program significantly, so we can try to catch up with some of the debt.
Last year we came up with an idea to raise some money in a way that we thought would be virtually painless. With our database and Facebook following, we reach out to around 10,000 people. We thought if we asked everyone to donate $5, even if half the people participated, that would really help us with the debt. The $5 Fridays have been successful, mainly due to some very generous supporters, but the concept was to have a lot of people donate a little money. So we’re going to try another $5 Friday this Friday the 28th and we’re going to ask EVERYONE who believes in Atlanta Lab Rescue to please donate $5 (we won’t tell anyone if you donate more) to help us reach a goal of $25,000! You can go online at click on “donate” or the link below or mail $5 to PO Box 250206, Atlanta 30325.
Our next adoption day will be on 3/30/14! Come out to meet the dogs, get great info from foster families, and meet our Director. Want to know more about the dogs in our program? Visit our Available Dogs page today!
I wanted to tell you how much fun I had when you visited me on Saturday! I especially liked how sweet you were and how much you loved to play once we got to know each other. It was good for me to stay quiet while you got to know me and understand that I would not hurt you like other dogs have done to you in the past. Your human said you have been treated badly in the past – those days are over Edward – you are an ALR dog now! The nice humans at Atlanta Lab Rescue will find you a perfect home, where you will be loved and where your new humans will know how to take it easy with you and be gentle. They will come to know that you are a sweet soul and have much to offer. You will learn to be a dog and be happy forever – the right family will come along.
You can come and visit me anytime! I wanted to share our video so people can see how wonderful you are Edward.
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!!! 
