Buddy, Sunshine, Lollipop Sept 4, 2023

Dear Friends,

One of the great things about me writing each week are the people I meet that are new.  Just this past week my cousin in Virginia, yep the state of Virginia sent me a story that will make you eyes leak.  I feel pretty special that my stories go all the way to Virginia, Phoenix, and lots of other places as well.  Here is what she sent.

My name is Suri (short for survivor.) I was found wandering with little puppies, who everyone thought were mine, but they weren’t.  I was just trying to help them.  Sadly, some of them didn’t make it but three did and I was so glad.  People tried to catch me, but I was so scared and didn’t realize they wanted to help me, so I kept running.  Then I saw someone with another pup (kinda like me) and just got into their car.  I am now in a foster home where it is warm and I always have food.  I have two fur siblings who I am learning to play with.  I’m still kinda scared of anything new, so please be patient with me.  I’m about 3 years old and my peeps say I am a Lab mix.  I went to the doggy door and she told me that I was healthy and heart worm negative.  Everyone was so happy to hear that so I got excited too.  I got all my shots and a little chip thing so if I get lost again, someone will know how to get a hold of my person.  I’m spayed so I can’t have any more babies and that’s ok with me.  The little ones I was watching were a handful.  I love my foster mama and family but now it’s time for me to have my own person so I can I’m home!  I like fur siblings, but brothers are my favorite. I’m ok to be by myself, too.  Then I can enjoy all the attention.  I love my toys and I’m a good girl, just ask anyone.  If you want someone who will love you forever, I’m your gal!

Suri, I know you have a home now. I am so happy for you.  Let me give you a little advice.  Learn to wag real often, squint your eyes when you look at your new mom and dad, and always lay down by them so they can reach down from their chairs to give you a pat. If you want to get real fancy, learn how to shake and roll over. I have shared with Sunny and Lolli, don’t chew up newspapers, shoes, dollar bills, rugs, or anything left on the floor.  Learn this quick as it will be best for you.   Sunny and Lolli are still learning this! Let me know how it goes in your new home.  My poof is wagging for you.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friends,

Buddy, Sunshine, Lollipop

Live – Laugh – Love –Wag - Adopt -NOW

​

Buddy August 28, 2023

Dear Friends,

Remember Sunshine and Lollipop are sort of helping me with the column.  So, sometimes it will be me talking to you and sometimes it will be Sunny and Lolli.

So, it goes I sure hope without saying, make sure your pet has fresh water and bedding if they have to be outside.  And, bring them in if you can.  I am lucky because both my town mom and my lake mom have air conditioning and believe you me my poof wags because I am glad.

Buddy here, a friend named Meadow.  She was a stray that came to Ark. A Heinz 57 however a very bubbly personality that gets along with other dogs and people.  She is about 8 months old.  She stopped eating at the shelter and the staff became very worried so they took her to the vet.  The vet could not determine what was wrong so back to the shelter she came.  She got worse and worse so the decision was made to take her to the ER vet.  Well, it is a good thing they did.  She had to have emergency surgery and they found she had eaten something and it was still inside her.  I don’t think I have to tell you that was very expensive for Ark.  Maybe if you could help that would be awesome.  Her bill was about $7,000.  I will try and keep you posted as to how she is doing.  Right now things look pretty good and she is resting at a foster home. You know we try and save them all!  Meadow, we are glad you are doing so well.

So this is Sunny and Lolli talking now.  We were walking like we do everyday and zam out of no where came this Boston Terrier.  We think he wanted to play but we are never quite sure.  He jumped and wiggled and jumped some more.  Our mom is pretty protective of us because a long time ago she had a dog that was attacked and she remembers this.  This Boston guy I think must have been hard of hearing.  His mom yelled and yelled at him and he paid no attention.  He just kept wanting to jump and run.  I thought we would never be able to finish our walk.  Our mom said to the Boston’s mom where is his collar?  Her response, I took it off.  Frustration hit our mom.  This dog followed us for about 6 blocks.   You know what is coming next?  Please keep your dog on a leash or under control.  Our mom says that is what the town requires.  Makes it so much easier for everyone and every dog.

Remember, behind every strong woman is a dog who follows her to the bathroom. And, all you need in life is a dog, and that one, and that one, and that one.  Maybe a cat or two.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friends.

Buddy, Sunshine and Lollipop

Live-Laugh-Love-Wag-Adopt- NOW

​

Buddy August 21, 2023

Dear Friends,

Sunshine and Lollipop here along with me.  We are learning how to face book.  We must admit it is a challenge. Our mom’s friend sent her this story and it made her eyes leak.  When she read it to us ours leaked too.  We think you will like it.  It was written by a gal named Mary Jane il. 

Our 14 –year-old dog Abbey died last month.  The day after she passed away my 4-year-old daughter Meredith was crying and talking about how much she missed Abbey.  She asked if we could write a letter to God so that when Abbey got to heaven, God would recognize her.  I told her that I thought we could, and she dictated these words.

Dear God, Will you please take care of my dog? She died yesterday and is with you in heaven.  I miss her very much.  I am happy that you let me have her as my dog even though she got sick.  I hope you will play with her.  She likes to swim and play with balls.  I am sending a picture of her so when you see her you will know that she is my dog.  I really miss her.  Love, Meredith.

We put the letter in an envelope with a picture of Abbey and Meredith and addressed it to God/Heaven.  We put our return address on it.  Then Meredith pasted several stamps on the front of the envelope because she said it would take lots of stamps to get the letter all the way to heaven.

That afternoon she dropped it into the letterbox at the post office.  A few days later, she asked if God had gotten the letter yet.  I told her that I thought He had.  Yesterday, there was a package wrapped in paper on our front porch addressed to Meredith in an unfamiliar hand.  Meredith opened it, inside was a book by Mr. Rogers called, “When a Pet Dies.” Taped to the inside front cover was the letter we had written to God in its opened envelope.  On the opposite page were the picture of Abbey and Meredith and this note:

Dear Meredith, Abbey arrived safely in heaven.  Having the picture was a big help and I recognized her right away.  Abbey isn’t sick anymore.  Her spirit is here with me just like it stays in your heart.  Abbey loved being your dog.  Since we don’t need our bodies in heaven, I don’t have any pockets to keep your picture in so I am sending it back to you in this little book for you to keep and have something to remember Abbey by.  Thank you for the beautiful letter and thank your mother for helping you write it and sending it to me.  What a wonderful mother you have.  I picked her especially for you.  I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much.  By the way, I’m easy to find.  I am wherever there is love.  Love, God.

Thanks to Meredith and Mary Jane.  What a great story.  Your ‘fur-ever’ friends,

Buddy, Lolli and Sunny

Live, Laugh, Love, Wag, Adopt, Now

​

Buddy August 14, 2023

Dear Friends,

Wow, we have been friends for a long time. If you began this journey with me, It has been almost 14 years.  We are not real sure how old I am because when I was found I didn’t have those things they call credentials. I guess you could say I did not have a birth certificate.  So it is a by guess and by golly sort of thing.

Having said all that and if you have followed me you know of all my antics. All of the awesome discoveries I have made and all the new friends I met along the way. My trips to the woods and oh such fun I had.  The new findings in my town moms house and then taking them to the back yard.  Oh, I could go on and on and on.  The new friends that have written me and told me of their adventures.  And I couldn’t forget to mention Buddy’s book.  All the kids that wrote stories about their pets and sent them to me.

This begins a new adventure for me.  I am not disappearing but I am handing the – people say the ‘torch’, dogs say the ‘bone’ over to Sunshine and Lollipop.  I will still be writing and sharing tons of fun things and tons of antics and I hope will bring tons of smiles and laughter to you.  Sunshine and Lollipop have youth on their side and are exploring, investigating, finding lots of stuff and new things to share.  I love watching them and I love the memories they bring back to me.  I also love watching them from the couch and saying to myself, “you might want to think over what you are about to do.”

So, this chapter closes for me and a new one begins.  My poof will continue to wag, my eyes will continue to squint, and I will love the lap and the couch. Let me remind you that all those stories were actual adventures for me and I loved every one of them.  I will love sharing the new ones created by S and L.  I will continue to sneak a surprise in now and then – just for fun.

So, let me begin with a short one.  When Sunshine and Lollipop came home, they were in a crate for safety.  I was already at my town mom’s.  The crate was set in the back yard and the door opened.  They were just little shavers, only 9 weeks old.  Out the door, they came and you know what I did?  Ha, I initiated the whole thing and lifted my leg.  I am the boss.  Yep, it is true.  Of course, they had no clue what was going on.  They were funny because I must have seen like a giant to them.  It did not take them long to discover my ears and my poof, which are still favorites of them.  I look forward to sharing of their lives with you and hope you will find a smile on your face from their adventure.

She shelter has “maxed out.”  So many dogs and cats.   NOW is the time to Adopt.  Just do it.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live, Laugh, Love, Wag, Adopt

Buddy August 7, 2023

Dear Friends,

There is a difference in my schedule. I can tell.  My lake mom is acting different.  I have learned this from watching for lots of years.  Soon to be here – that school thing she goes to.  I will get dropped off early in the morning and sometimes I have breakfast at home and sometimes I have breakfast with Sunshine and Lollipop.  It doesn’t matter to me except at Sunshine and Lollipop’s house I get a little chicken mixed in with my food. 

Sometimes it is good to refresh our owner’s minds about possible problems that may come to us dogs. If you find something unusual on your dog or cat like a lump or bump – please keep an eye on it and if it gets bigger, here are some warning signs of possible potential problems.  Any lumps, bumps or swellings that appear to increase in size. A sore that does not heal.  Weight loss. Loss of appetite.  Unexplained bleeding or discharge from anybody opening.  Stinky odor.  Difficulty eating or swallowing.  Hesitation to exercise.   Stiffness. Difficulty breathing, urinating or doing the ‘other’.  Vets will tell you  that cancer is the leading cause of death in animals. They say that almost half of the deaths occur in dogs over 10 years of age.  Thanks to early detection now the rate for survival is better.  Dogs get much the same kinds of cancers that people get.  So as with humans, early detection is very important. We don’t like to talk about things like this, but help your dog and help yourself by making sure of yearly physical exams.  Don’t put off something that may lead to an un-happy time. Whew, glad that is over.

I always like to remind people when they see those big yellow things on the highway and in town that it means there are kids around or in them.  Please be careful and don’t forget that the sign on the side of them that says stop that it really means stop.

Sunshine and Lollipops niece found a bunny in their yard.  It was what she called a domestic one.  I think that means it had a home and was let go.  It took her several days before that bunny would come near.  She fed and talked to him and finally she was able to catch him.  Off to a special Dr. they went.  Had to do some teeth work done. The vet told her she got to the bunny just in time. We all know what that means.  He has a new home and a new name, Dark Chocolate is now with a family of loved cats and has a new diet and family and loving every minute. She said he won the pet parent lottery.

Quote of the week:  I used to look at my dog and think “if you were a little smarter you could tell me what you were thinking,” and he’d look at me like he was saying “if you were a little smarter, I wouldn’t have to.”  Fred Jungclaus

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt

Buddy July 31, 2023
Dear Friends,
It is almost August and you know what that means? Crazy schedules again, early morning
wake ups, and not much time on my pontoon. School. I wonder how many more years my
lake mom will have to go to school. Ha, I finished school long before this. All I had to learn was
sit, stay, come, don’t bite, stay away from strange dogs, and tail wagging. They threw in
smiling too for free. That is what really gets people, when I smile. I love it.
Bingo! Have you heard of it? I have heard people say it before and some pets even have it as
their name and I think there is even a song about it - but this is something different. The
traditional Ark animal fundraiser is a bingo night. Food yep but also bingo playing. I have
never played bingo but I hope I am going to be there and I hope I get to play. Put September
20th on your calendar and let’s play a few games together. Tickets available at the Paws and
Claws bookstore, Ark animal rescue and adoption or any board member. Get yours soon as
they are limited. I wonder if I will win a prize?
Would you like to help Ark but just have too many pets now? You can help by being sponsor.
It is a cool idea. You get to help a pet and get something called advertising for you or your
business. It helps Ark, helps you and I call that a win win. Call Lisa at 269-312-0875 to help.
I was in deep deep trouble a few days ago. You probably guessed it, I took off. I heard my
town mom calling B-U-D-D-Y – B-U-D-D-Y -- over and over. I heard her get closer to me and
then I heard her get farther away, I just plain didn’t want to hear her. An hour later, yes a
whole hour I decided to head back. When I saw her tears running down her face I knew I had
really scared her. She picked me up, scolded me but then I got a kiss on the head too.
However, that doesn’t end it I am now on a leash. I know that I really scared her. I am not
sure how long I will be on a leash and I guess I really deserve it. I will be patient and I will try
and come when called. Really, I will.
Ark can always use treats for the dogs and cats. If you would like to donate that would be
awesome. My pals at Ark get a couple of treats a day. You can order from Amazon or Chewy
and they will bring it right to the door at Ark. I think that is pretty cool. You can also bring
them out to the rescue.
Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,
Buddy
Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt

Buddy July 24, 2023

Dear Friends,

You may not know this but I am getting pretty good at finding stories on my town mom’s phone.  When she lays it down and goes outside to do lawn stuff I find it.  This is what I found this week. 

They always seemed to pass me by; I never knew the reason why.  All my friends had found a home, and only I remained alone.  But finally -  somebody came, and spoke to me with gentle tone.  I hardly dared believe it true, into my human’s arms I flew.  Our first embrace – my heart beat fast.  A family of my own at last!  And when tonight I rest my head, in my new warm and cozy bed a prayer I’ll send, high up above, “may all the shelter pups find love.” Author unknown.

This makes me think of my pals at the shelter.  You know, I sometimes find my mom’s, (you know I have two.  A town and a lake one.)  I find each looking into my eyes.  I wonder sometimes what they are thinking.  They look and look and then I know I just know what is going on in their minds.  If they would speak it would be, Buddy, I love you.  Sometimes I look into their eyes too.  I try to do it when they don’t realize what is going on.  I am kind of slick that way.  Anyway when I look into their eyes I am saying the same thing.  I love you.  Shelter dogs have the same ability.  Give them a chance to look into your eyes.  They will say things like: give me a chance I will try very hard to be good. Or someone just let me go when they moved, I don’t know what I did wrong, give me a chance.  And then there is the shelter dog that says, I was miss treated but I will try very hard to love you without any strings attached.  One of my friend said one time that the family that took him from the shelter brought him back in just a few days.  It takes my pals longer than just a few days to learn the rules and make those adjustments to a new home. 

I talked to Rabeca at the shelter this week.  She is the boss and she said they are packed.  Lots of good guys and gals just roaming the streets that get rescued.  I would have to think at one time they had a home. Maybe not a very good home and that is why they are roaming.  Please if you are thinking, it is time for a dog check out the shelter.  Look into the eyes of the dogs there and let them see you.  Remember it takes time, as they all come from who knows what kind of background.  Let them love you and you them.  It is a win win deal for all.

Your ‘fur-ever’ pal,

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt

Buddy, July 17, 2023          Dear Friends,

My jammies are packed along with my toothbrush and of course my identification and off to Sunshine and Lollypop’s house for a few days.  My lake mom off to a friend’s home and who knows all the places they will go.  I have a special bed at Sunny’s and Lolly’s and those crazy girls pick on me something fierce.  They pull and tug at my ears.  I am so very glad they leave my poof alone.  I get to go for walks with them and of course I get a biscuit when they get one too.  I am glad my ears have extra fir on them because if they didn’t I wouldn’t have any left. 

The new t-shirt design at the Paws and Claws bookstore is out and you can see it when you go there.  It is really cool and different from all the other designs we have had.  The gal that designed it has a dog and a cat and I would bet that helped her design the shirt.  Check it out.  I’m going to ask why the bookstore doesn’t get dog shirts because I would love to have one like this.

My mom’s friend sent this to her.  It has been around before but maybe you missed it the first time.  It is about dogs and well, you will enjoy it I am sure.

Dogs are never permitted in the house.  The dog stays outside in a specially build wooden compartment named for a very good reason, the dog house.  Okay, the dog can enter the house but only for short visits or if his own house is under renovation.  Okay, the dog can stay in the house on a permanent basis, provided his dog house can be sold in a yard sale to a rookie dog owner. 

Inside the house, the dog is not allowed to run free and is confined to a comfortable but secure metal cage.  Okay, the cage becomes part of a two for one deal along with the dog house in the yard sale, and the dog can go wherever the heck he pleases. 

The dog is never allowed on the furniture.  Okay, the dog can get on the old furniture but not the new furniture.  Okay, the dog can get up on the new furniture until it looks like the old furniture and then we’ll sell the whole bunch and buy new furniture.  Upon which the dog will most definitely not be allowed.

The dog never sleeps on the bed. Period. Okay, the dog can sleep at the foot of the bed.  Okay, the dog can sleep alongside you, but he is not allowed under the covers.  Okay, the dog can sleep under the covers but not with his head on the pillow.  Okay, the dog can sleep alongside you under the covers with his head on the pillow, but if he snores he’s got to leave the room. Okay, the dog can sleep and snore and have nightmares in bed, but he’s not to come in and sleep on the couch in the TV room, where I’m now sleeping.  That’s just not fair. 

The dog never gets listed on the census questionnaire as “primary resident.” Even if it’s true.  Author unknown.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend, Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag – Adopt.

​

Buddy, July 10, 2023

So, have you ever given any thought to bunnies?  I have. In fact I have to be honest I have in the past chased them.  I found in the back yard one time a nest of bunnies.  I was young and really didn’t know what to do with them.  I sort of wondered why any mom would make a next in the back yard where there were several of us dogs running around.  I never found the answer to this. Let me go on.  So I was walking with Sunshine and Lollipop  and my town mom and we saw bunnies.  I mean there were bunnies everywhere, all over the place.  They were hopping around chasing one another.  There were some that were sitting real still.  The ones that were sitting real still were really hard to see.  In fact the only way I really saw them was when they ran.  That white tail, their ‘bunny poof’ was so white it stuck out like one of my friends the pigs in my living room.  That got me to thinking, why do bunnies have white tails? They blend in so well it is really hard to see them unless you look very very carefully. I asked my town mom and she didn’t know.  I thought that was strange but she said she would look it up on something called Google.  She did and then she told me this.  Bunnies have white tails to help them escape from something chasing them.  I said that makes no sense.  She said, Buddy, you watch bunnies the next time you are outside.  They dart this way and that way, they are she said, quick like a bunny.  Their white tails are what is seen by something that is trying to catch them but by the time they get there that bunny has darted a different way. And it goes on and on and on.  Ha, I said quick like a bunny.  I like that. Watch them the next time.  Bunny poofs sort of like my poof, but mine is not white. 

So very hot this past week.  Exercise is good for everyone but when it is very hot it is hard on us dogs.  Our feet get very hot and if we have a bunch of fir – whew.  Walking later and taking some water along is a good idea.  My town mom takes water with her and she chooses a route that is mostly in the shade.  I appreciate that.  Remember if it is hot for you it is very hot for us.  Another reminder to make sure fresh water every day is placed not only inside but outside as well.  Just think about you having to stay outside all the time. 

Take time to wag your poof, it will make people smile and wonder about you.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt

​

Buddy July 3, 2023

Dear Friends,

Well I heard way too many ca-booms, sizzles, and big booms.  I totally get celebrating, but way too much noise for me.  If you took some bags of food or treat to Ark a wiggle and wag to you!

My town mom found some good things on face book this week.  Just some things for you to think about.

A lesson on Love:  My dog and I do not speak the same language.  Yet every day, she tells me:  I trust you to know when I need to go for a walk. I will let you hold me when you need to and I will ask you for love when I need it.  On the days you are sick, I will lie beside you.  I will look for you in rooms when you are not here, and I will greet you with so much joy when you come home.  I will guard you when you sleep.  I I will way my tail and let you know that everything will be okay on your bad days, and I know that you will do the same on mine.  And from this I learn that my dog and I actually do speak the same language.  After all, the universe is a kindly ancient thing.  It gave love as a mother tongue to every being.  Kikita Gill.

Here is another.  A dog’s last will and testament:  Before humans die they write their last will and testament, give all they have to those they leave behind.  If, with my paws, I could do the same, this is what I’d ask…  To a poor and lonely stray I’d give my happy home, my bowl and cozy bed, soft pillow and all my tops; the lap, which I loved so much; the hand that stroked my fur; and the sweet voice that spoke my name. I’d will to the scared shelter dog the place I had in my human’s loving heart, of which there seemed no bounds. So, when I die, please do not say “I will ever have a pet again, for the loss and pain is more than I can stand.:  Instead go find an unloved go, one whose life has held no joy or hope, and give my place to him.  This is the only thing I can give…  The love I left behind.  Author unknown.

Let me share something about sniffing.  When we go on walks, which I really love to do, we don’t go for speed or distance.  We go to sniff. We can walk the same path 100 times and smell something different.  I did a little research and sniffing is actually a calming, mentally engaging and therapeutic (I had trouble with this one) time for us.  It helps us relax.  So, the next time you go for a walk with your fur friend remember it is for them, not you.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt 

​

Buddy June 26, 2023

Dear Friends,

Boom – sizzle – caboom – zzzzzzzzzzzzz- bang – big caboom.  On it goes and oh how it hurts my ears and makes me very nervous.  What about this:  In place of those crazy fireworks buy some food for the shelter!  I hide in the bathroom with the radio on full blast and I still can hear them.  I know it is the 4th of July and we celebrate that day but what a celebration it would be for my pals at the shelter if they didn’t have to hear all those noises and would get food in place of the noise.  Do you know more dogs and cats run away from home during the time all those crackers are going off.  I know they are pretty, but….

You may want to reserve July 1st to do your shopping at Millers Super Value.  Ark will be there with BBQ ribs for sale and also sacking groceries.  Great way to meet some new people and to help support the rescue. I will not be there in person but wish all the best.

We have talked about names before and how important they are.  Take mine for example, it is Buddy but sometimes I am called Budsy and Butter.  Then there are those times when the sound of my lake moms voice is BUDDY!  That most likely means I am in trouble.  I am not sure what my name was before I was rescued but I like the name Buddy.  When you get a new pet it is best to get to know them first.  Sometimes they have a way of naming themselves.  Best to make the name short.  For example Sunshine and Lollipop are sort of long, but are called Sunny and Lolli.  There is a story behind those names I know.  Make a list of all your favorite names maybe from TV or the movies and one of them might just fit.  Try to stay away from bad words, it is just best to do that. The top name right now for both dogs and cats is Luna.  I am not sure where this came from and I am glad my name is Buddy.

I am not sure if you know this, but all of my pals at Ark require some type of medical help when they arrive at Ark..  Some more than others.  The veterinarians we work with (bless them all) give Ark a discount but the cost is crazy high.  Our total costs this past year just for vet services for dogs and cats totaled $43,582.25.  This does not include food, treats and toys or supplies needed to run a shelter.  All our animals leave the rescue fully vetted.  I only tell you this to let you know how important donations are to Ark.  My friends on the board work very hard to raise money and it is so important to my pals.  It is important for me to thank you too.  There are many wiggles and wags of my poof when you help.  Thank you.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt

​

Buddy June 19, 2023

Dear Friends,

Sometimes my town mom finds neat things on face book and tells me about them.  This week she found this posted.  If you did not see it, now is your chance.  It is called “Bonded.”

I am the dog that is under your feet, one pace behind you when you’re up from your seat.  I am the chap that stands on the rug you are trying to straighten, yes, I am that dog.  I am the pup that will walk on your chest when you’re blissfully napping, free of all stress.  I am the child that takes twenty minutes to poo for it must be quite perfect when your mum’s frozen.  I am the boy that makes smells when we snuggle, whose booty always gets me in trouble.  So perfect a Mummy is why I’m devoted to you. I love you to the moon and back.  Ahhhhh.

Have you seen the new sign at the Paws and Claws bookstore?  Wow it really looks nice and now everyone who drives by will know for sure what is in that store.  Thanks Heidi, I think you did a great job and I know all my pals at the shelter will be happy too.  Not everyone knows that the profits from Paws and Claws go to help the shelter animals.  My town mom told me that  because of the bookstore my friends are more comfortable and last year they got new dog doors.  The shelter is not a place anyone of my friends want to be.  On the other hand most of who are there are better cared for than where they were.  They get first rate treatment.  I laugh because I have heard my town mom say they have everything but the TV clicker – and a home.  Thanks for taking your books you no longer need and donating them to the bookstore. And, thank you to all the volunteers that help too. Wiggle waggle to all of you!

We are in summer mode now.  That tells me I need to remind you to make sure your pal has fresh water every day and that if they must stay outside, make sure their bed is clean too.  Remember when it is hot for you to walk it is even hotter for your dog on the pavement.  And, of course the car…It can get very hot very quickly.  Not a place for a dog in the summer.  If your mom or dad have the air on and you are in the car that is ok, I am talking about a parked car.  Never!

Let me talk to you about ticks too.  This is something that is bad and can cause really bad things to happen.  I have a special collar on but that doesn’t always mean I will never get a tick.  My town mom goes over not only me but Sunshine and Lollypop everyday to check.  It only takes a minute and it makes me feel good that she knows how important it is to do.  Check you pal every day.

Your ’fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Love – Laugh – Live – Wag - Adopt

​

Buddy June 12, 2023

Dear Friends,

I ran across something that I think I should share with you this week.  You all know I like to wag my poof.  Well, here are wiggles, wags and purrs to all of you who are animal people and read this column.

Who; love us… Keep us current on our shots and vet visits… Make sure our outdoor beds are clean and dry… Walk and exercise us… Keep our toe nails trimmed… Take blankets, cushions, dishes, collars, towels, food, treats to Ark shelter… Keep our water dishes clean and fresh… Spay and neuter us… Take us to nursing homes or rehabilitation homes for visits… Keep us clean and groomed… Help us with flea and tick prevention… Carry pick up bags for us when walking… Take us for yearly dental cleanings… Serve us good nutritional food… Chip us…Keep us on heartworm preventative… Foster our friends… Pick up our dumped friends who are cold and scared… Offer to stay with us when our owners go on vacation… Kindly correct us when we are wrongs… Comfort us in thunderstorms and the 4thof July… Give us safe toys… Keep poison plants away from us… Watch where fertilizer and anti-freeze is kept so we can’t get into it… Take us with you when you move… Teach pet safety to the children in the house…Teach pet etiquette to family members… Help Ark survive with donations… And, let md snuggle with our favorite people. 

10 things I would like to tell you.  1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years.  Any time away from you will be painful. Remember that before you get me.  2. Give me time to understand what you want me to do.  3. Put your trust in me – It makes me feel secure. 4. Do not be angry with me for long, as it seems like years to me. 5. You have your work and friends; I have only you. 6. Talk to me.  I understand more than what you think.  7. Remember my memory is good and I will remember how you treat me. 8. I have good strong teeth so remember before you hit me I could really hurt you but my choice is to not as I love you.

9. Before you discipline me remember there may be something going on that you don’t know.  I may not be getting the right food, or my teeth hurt or I may be ageing. 10. Please take care of me when I get old.  Go with me on those hard journeys.  Everything is easier if you are by my side.  Remember I have love you unconditionally and I always will.  

Have a great week and thanks for being my friend.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt

​

Buddy June 6, 2023

Howdy!  As soon as I hit send last week I remembered the story about the ground hog. It is a good memory – for me.  I was in the back yard at my town moms and was barking and barking at this ground hog.  He wasn’t paying any attention to me and was doing his own thing.  I waited in the shade and then he appeared on the other side of the fence.  Well, you know what I did.  I could not resist.  I took off after him and he didn’t see me coming.  I caught him.  The next part you don’t want to hear. But the next part is good. I went through the dog door and my town mom was sitting and saw me come in.  She jumped up and I have to say pretty fast and said to me “Buddy what on earth do you have?”  Well, I couldn’t talk very well because my mouth was full.  I was pretty proud.  I wagged my poof and took off down the hall to her bedroom.  She was right after me.  My friend Gertie was still part of the picture at that time and she had her nose in the whole activity too.  I jumped up on the bed, yes with my mouth full and Gertie my sidekick right there too.  I heard my mom say “oh my goodness what if this thing is still alive.”  Alive? ha, no way, I did my job well! She made me drop it and then she picked it up quickly and down the hall and out the door she went even quicker.  We followed very closely wondering what she was going to do.  She disappeared for a moment and I heard a clink from the garage and when she returned my prized possession was gone.  Not sure I agreed with her then and I still don’t agree with her today.   Funny how a prized slice of life and adventure  isn’t the same for everyone.

This past weekend was a special time.  It was a time where we honor our veterans.  There are many stories of dogs helping during the past wars. It does my heart good when I hear of my canine friends helping during rough and hard times.  We can do so much more than what most people think.  We have talked before about all the things dogs can do. The best?  Well the best is giving that special kind of love.  Wanting nothing back, just loving you.

People in 2020 – “This is the worst year in the history of our lives.”  Dogs in 2020: “what a time to be alive! Every single one of my humans is home ALL day EVERY day!  Taking me on walks.  Lounging around on the couch.  About time humans came to their senses and adopted our way of life.”

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live -Love – Laugh – Wag - Adopt

​

Buddy May 29, 2023

Dear Friends,

We have been friends for a long time.  I am thinking about 12 years.  As I was thinking about that I began to remember some of the stories.  I asked my town mom what she thought about some of those.  She said to me, “Buddy are you reminiscing?” I said I have no clue what that is but I began to talk to her about some of the stories.  Here it goes.  The woods, ahh my favorite place next to the pontoon to be.  I was just a young guy then and I remember bringing up a deer leg.  It wasn’t the whole leg but it was big enough I had to really work to get it up the hill.  I thought maybe I would be in trouble but nope, all I heard was how in the world did you bring that up the hill.  I smiled and wagged my poof.

Then there were the pigs.  They were my friends.  Little did I know they could have really hurt me.  I went up to them, smelled them, and wagged my poof.  All they did was snort.  A little later on I thought it would be fun to chase them. Not so much those big ones but the little ones really scrambled.  My town mom did not think that was funny. I had them all named. Wiggles, Curlie, Chop and Hammie.

Then there were those animals that had those dark circles around their eyes.  There were 3 little ones and a big one.  I scrambled after them and up the tree they went. I am thinking my the sound of my town mom’s voice it was a good thing they did.

The wooley worms.  In the fall, I could see many of them.  They tell us what kind of winter it is going to be.  I learned much from them.  They do not taste very well and sometimes it is hard to tell if it is their head or tail.

The pontoon rides, the wind blowing my ears.  The swimming with a life jacket of course.  In the summer, this is my favorite thing to do.  I love being with my lake mom.  She is happy when she is on the pontoon and that makes me happy.

The trips to the schools. Kids are funny.  They all want to pet me and I like that.  I would do my favorite trick and they would laugh.  I love teaching them the right way to treat animals.

Last on a long list is the day I was found. Cold, freezing cold and then swooped up in a blanket and taken to a warm home.  Fed, loved, accepted and adopted. This will always remain on top.  My life was changed and it is a good life.

Take your memories and let them feed your heart – it is a win win.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Love – Laugh – Wag – Adopt

​

Buddy May 22, 2023

Dear Friends,

Whew, a close call this week.  A big dog jumped the fence and decided to visit a very small dog.  When Trixie was telling me about the visit, it was not what she would call a social call.  It was a very very scary time for Trixie.  Her mom had to pick her up as the big dog was coming right towards her.  When I was walking today Trixie’s mom told me all about it.  It is the same path Sunshine, Lollipop and I take.  My town mom decided to take a different route. 

This is the thing, it is against LaGrange County rules to have a dog running loose without proper watch.  A dog must be on a leash or under control.  I am so glad Trixie and her mom were not hurt!  Please if you know someone whose dog is running loose let them know it is against the law.  There have been several times we have had to change our route for walking just to avoid a dog running loose. 

My town mom saw this on her phone and thought maybe you might enjoy it too.  It is called ‘When I am old.’  I will wear soft gray sweatshirts… and a bandana over my silver hair… and I will spend my social security checks on my dogs.  I will sit in my house on my well-worn chair and listen to my dogs breathing.  I will sneak out in the middle of a warm summer night and take my dogs for a run, if my old bones will allow… When people come to call, I will smile and nod as I show them my dogs… and talk of them and about them… the ones so beloved of the past and the ones so beloved of today… I will still work hard cleaning after them, mopping and feeding them and whispering their names in a soft loving way.  I will wear the gleaming sweat on my throat, like a jewel, and I will be an embarrassment to all… especially my family… who have not yet found the peace in being free to have dogs as your best friends… these friends who always wait, at any hour, for your footfall… and eagerly jump to their feet out of a sound sleep, to greet you as if you are a God, with warm eyes full of adoring love and hope that you will always stay.  I’ll hug their big strong necks… I’ll kiss their dear sweet heads… and whisper in their very special company… I look in the mirror… and see I am getting old… this is the kind of person I am… and have always been.  Loving dogs is easy, they are part of me.  Please accept me for who I am.  My dogs appreciate my presence in their lives…tthey love my presence in their lives… when I am old this will be important to me… you will understand when you are old, if you have dogs to love too.  ‘Author Unknown.

The wisdom of someone who is aging gracefully and loving dogs.  My kind of person!

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Love – Laugh – Wag - Adopt

​

Buddy May 15, 2023

Dear Friends,

Hi Buddy, this is Jack. Remember me?  I am the guy at the Paws and Claws bookstore on Thursdays that gets to see all the people come in and sometimes I even get a biscuit or two.  I am a former shelter dog at Ark and was rescued by my mom.  Her name is Linda and she is the gal at the bookstore on Thursdays.  She is the one that needs volunteers to help.  I have a cool story for you.

Last week when you could not go to Topeka Elementary and see all the First graders like last year and get the check for all the cookies they sold during the year guess who was in your place.  Yep, me.  Well my mom and my dad went too.  I think my mom and dad were a little nervous but that is my time to shine.  I love boys and girls.  It was an awesome time, I mean awesome.  One first grader asked my mom how did she choose me.  My mom’s response was that I really chose her.  She was at the shelter and I was in the office and I knew this person was for me.  I jumped in her lap and gave her those eyes you so often talk about and well the rest was history.  Another question was how did I learn to sing.  I learned because my mom and dad howled at me every day so I finally got it and did it back.  Man, did I get the pats and treats then.  I heard my mom and dad talking on the way home about wondering if all those first graders when home and tried to teach their dog to howl.   It was fun being with all the kids and all the hugs and pats I got.  No wonder you like going Buddy. 

The kids sold cookies all year long and came up with $471.10 to donate to Ark.  That is many many cookies that all their moms made during the year.  Thank you so much all first graders and of course their moms and teachers.  That money helps us make sure all the dogs, cats have good food, medical care from the vets, and of course, some treats.  I look forward to coming again.  Maybe Buddy and I can come together. 

My town mom saw this on that crazy Face book.  If I didn’t have a dog.  If I didn’t have a dog I could walk around the back yard barefoot without worry.  My house could be carpeted instead of tiled.  My clothing, furniture and other belongings would be free of hair.  When the doorbell rings, my home wouldn’t sound like a kennel.  I could sit on the couch or lie in my bed the way I want to, without taking into consideration how much space she needs to be comfortable.  I would not have strange presents under the Christmas tree like bones, stuffed animals, toys and treats…not would I have to explain way I wrap them.  I would have no guilt about going on vacation.  I would not be on a first name basis with three veterinarians, as I put their kids through college.  The most used words in my vocabulary would not be sit, stay, down, come go.  My house would not be in zones and baby gates and barriers.  My pockets would not contain things like poop bags, treats, and an extra leash.  My house wouldn’t look like a daycare center with toys everywhere.  I would not have to spell out the words, Ball, treat, walk.  I would be missing something very important – unconditional love.

Your’fur-ever’ friend, Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag – Adopt

​

Buddy May 8, 2023

Dear Friends,

Well, I am sorry to say I didn’t get any May baskets.  Maybe next year.  I did hear someone say that May is called that because it may snow, it may rain, it may be spring or it may be summer.  I thought that was pretty good.  I am ready for that sun, the more of it the better.  My lake mom has the pontoon out.  Soon?  Very soon I hope!! Ohhh I can feel that breeze in my nose.  All those awesome smells and odors.  Yippee!

Mother’s Day is right around the corner.  How about a shelter pet for a surprise? We have them.  Or in honor of you mom you could donate to Ark.  I’m always looking out for them.

This will tug at your heart. The Foster Dog. I know I don’t look like much. My ears aren’t the longest but I can hear everything you say. My coat isn’t very shiny, either – but I loved to be brushed. I am not a perfect dog, I guess.  Sometimes I make mistakes in the house, mostly when I get scared.  And I get really frightened when my foster mom goes away.  I know what it’s like to be abandoned forever. What if she never, never comes back? I get a awfully possessive about my food sometimes. I know what it’s like not to have any. And big people with loud hard voices scare me when they try to clip my nails.  I’ve been hurt bad.  And sometimes kids run and scream, one of them hit me once. And one kicked me.  I feel better that I used to, but I still get kind of sick sometimes.  I don’t know what’s wrong, but sometimes I just like to lie down in the sun and sleep.  I like my foster mother very well.  She’s a really nice person.  And I have been here a long time now.  She likes me too.  But I wish I had someone to really really love me.  Some very nice people came to look at me one time.  They petted me and took me for a walk!  I was so sure. But they went away.  They said I was too old. I wonder what that means.  Does that mean I won’t every get my own home?  By Diane Morgan

What is the best time of the day for you?  I’ve been thinking of this for a while and I have 3.  One is in the morning on my way to school with my lake mom.  She talks to me and rubs my ears. 2. After breakfast when I get to sit on my town mom’s lap and she talks to me. 3. When I get to walk with Sunshine and Lollipop. 

Golden Goodie -Happiness starts with a wet nose and ends with a tail – Author unknown.

Have a great week.

Your ‘fur-ever” friend,

Buddy

​

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag – Adopt

Buddy April 24, 2023

Dear Friends,

For 12 years!  I have done this for 12 years.  It is my spot.  It has been reserved for me and I fit just fine.  I have wiggled and sometimes wag as I snuggle down into my town mom’s right side in her favorite chair.  Now after 12 years this little pip squeak Sunshine thinks it is her space.  I’m ok with change but I do think seniority has its place too.  It was a battle this week for me to get my space.  Not a fighting battle but Sunshine is younger than me and it is easier for her to jump and walk on the arm chair to find that reserved space.  You would think she would have some respect for me and the past 12 years.  It is amazing what the younger generation think they can do. I am wondering when she will think she can take over my spot on the couch in the living room or the window that I look out.  Any ideas for me?

Here is a note from Molly. Hey there, Buddy!

It's me, Molly. I last wrote you back when the weather was super cold and snow was on the ground. Sure am glad those days are over.

I am enjoying the sights and smells of spring, long walks with my people, and the nice green grass. But I have a question about that grass. As we walk, I sometimes notice little paper tags on sticks sticking out of the ground, and often there are little grains of something on the sidewalks and in the grass. My mom tells me that someone has treated the lawn to help it grow - what an exciting thought! More green grass to run and roll in!

But my mom also has a concern. She wonders if it is safe for me to walk on that grass and the sidewalks when they have those tiny grains covering them. She thinks that if a sign was put up to tell us that the grass has been treated, then maybe we should be careful.

I don't know the answer, and while I would hate to miss out on a single walk, I do like being healthy. (Mom says I am perhaps too healthy and that she may "cut back." Not sure what that means, but it sure sounds suspicious to me.)

Any advice for me? My mom says you know a lot and that it would be a good idea to get your opinion. Love, Molly

Molly, I know what you are talking about.  You could use those little booties or have your mom just wash your feet when you get home.  It isn’t good for you to lick after you have walked in that stuff.  Great hearing from you.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt

Buddy April 17, 2023

Dear Friends,

Time for me to visit with you about having your pet checked for any issues with their teeth.  Why?  Well you see I just had mine done and that reminds me to remind you to have your pets teeth checked.   Lots of nasty stuff can happen if you don’t get them cleaned.  The worst is it can actually mess with their heart.  And, you know how important the heart is. You can check on line for all the things that can happen if their teeth are not healthy.  Do it. 

I also got my summer cut this week.  Feels really good and both my mom’s tell me I smell better too.  I look like a different dog.  I still have my poof which is really me, and my ears are still there too.  It sure makes me more comfy.  The girls smell better too.  They now look like a real Schnauzer and not a mop. I would not say that out loud and I am quite sure they don’t know how to read yet. 

My lake mom got the pontoon out.  And, I can’t wait to get on it and feel that breeze in my face.  I totally love going on it and when we go I usually get some treats too.  I hope we get to go soon!  I love going around the lake and seeing people that I haven’t seen since last summer.  I have a new dog friend too and I bet she gets to go on the pontoon too.

Here is a great story to end this week.  My town mom’s cousin sent it to her and she read it to me and I agree it is good.  It is called the Eagle and the Crow.  The only bird that dares to peck an eagle is the crow.  The crow sits on the eagles back and bites his neck.  The eagle does not respond, nor fights with the crow; he doesn’t spend time or energy on the crow, instead he just opens his wings and begins to rise higher in the heavens.  The higher the flight, the harder it is for the crow to breathe and eventually the crow falls off due to a lack of oxygen. 

Learn from the eagle and don’t fight the crows, just keep ascending.  They might be along for the ride but they will soon fall off.  Do not allow yourself to succumb to the distractions…keep your focus on the things above and continue rising!!

Hope you all have a great week!  Remember wag your tail – it makes people smile.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt

April 10, 2023

Dear Friends,

Laundry detergent, scoopable litter and milk bones.  Guess what these are?  They are the current needs at Ark. You can help my pals keep clean and enjoy a milk bone during the day if you want to drop these off at the shelter or at Paws and Claws in Howe.  Wiggles and wags to you.

Spring break – over.  That means drop off and pick up for me.  I like staying with Sunshine and Lollipop but I also like the peace and quiet of my lake mom’s home.  I am thinking I have the best of two worlds. 

My town mom’s niece.  Let me think what does that make me?  I am not very good with this genealogy stuff so let me just say she is my friend.  Her kitty’s have written a couple of letters to me. Anyway, she sent my town mom this thing on tiktok. You guessed it I have no clue what tiktok is.  I listened  to the stories she sent and I told my town mom to find out more about it.  So, she did and it didn’t take much coaxing either. There is this guy who every week shares 5 of the best stories about dogs for the week.  I thought this past week was pretty good so I am going to share with you what he said.

This week the # 5 dog is a dog named Pal.  He actually became mayor  in Niagara Falls, Canada.  The ceremony was official with a paw print and everything.  He has a trusty assistant who retrieves his tennis balls when they roll under the couch.  # 4 believe it or not are two. A goat named Cinnamon and a dog named Felix.  They have been together for a long time and the goat is actually house broken. That I would like to see!  They were given to a shelter and great for them they were adopted out together on a farm with other dogs and goats.  Wow, how great is that!  # 3 is a dog at a ball game that actually caught a fly ball.  The owner took it from him and the people around said give it back so he did.  #2 is Ruby.  Ruby was adopted several weeks before when she and her owner Bradley were on a walk.  Bradley fainted due to low blood pressure and Ruby said right with him until help arrived.  Bradley is fine and they are again walking.  #1 for this week involves comfort dogs in Nashville.  The Lutheran comfort dog ministry  took  6 comfort dogs go to the school where the shooting happened.  They will stay for as long as they are needed.  I had no clue there was even an organization like this.  I think this is pretty neat.  Thank you Lutheran comfort dog ministry people.  You made my poof wag!

So now the question you might ask as I did how do you get involved with stories like this.  I asked Heather and this is what she said: If you go to any platform – that means facebook, Instagram, tictok and type in (weratedogs.) you can follow this guy weekly.  I am going to do it – providing my town mom will allow me on her phone.  Thanks Heather for sharing!

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag – Adopt.

April 3, 2023

Dear Friends,

You should be at my town mom’s house when it is breakfast or suppertime.  Not for you to eat but for you to watch the sure to be a bestseller video of me and Sunshine and Lollipop eating.  It is something to see.  I have my own food because my lake mom brings it in.  You may find that interesting but when I know she is getting ready to leave for school I do not eat. You will know why in a minute. So, the best thing to do is let me eat at my town mom’s house.  Sunny and Lolli eat different food than me.  Most of the time in the morning they have already eaten but at night that is a different story.  My town mom usually says, “Want supper?”  And we all know what that means!  So we stand by the counter while she fixes 3 suppers.  Three different bowls, three different dogs.  I gulp my food down and usually leave just a tiny bit in the bottom.  Lolli and Sunny know that and they will not eat their supper until they lick my bowl totally I mean totally clean! Then, they eat their supper and of course, they have to switch bowls three or 4 times.  Same food.  I wait ever so patient until they are done and then zap I lick their bowls.  Strange thing it is.  I am beginning to think they have my town mom and their mom very well trained.

Here is a pretty good poem for you.  It is called Poem of a dog. I am the one who always waits for you.  Your can has a special sound that I have imprinted on my senses; I can recognize it among a thousand.  Your steps have a magic timbre.  Your voice is music to my ears.  If I see your joy, it makes me happy!  Your scent is the best; your presence is what moves my senses.  Your awakening wakes me up.  I watch you sleep and for me you are my God, I am happy watching over your sleep.  Your gaze is a ray of light.  Your hands on me have the lightness of peace and the sublime display of infinite love.  When you go out, I feel a huge emptiness in my heart.  I wait for you again and again.  I am the one who will wait for you all my life today, tomorrow and always:  I am your dog.  Author unknown.

It is Spring break!  That means a couple of things to me.  One I spend the entire week with those crazy pups.  But, it also means and I sure hope this is right, nice weather.  Have a great week!

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Laugh – Love – Wag - Adopt

​

March 27, 2023

​

Hi Buddy-

This is your old friend, Barkus the heavenly Beagle. Haven't talked to you for a while. All is well up here in Heaven. Our HEAVENLY HOWLERS CLUB continues to grow and howl songs of gratitude for our eternal home. And that brings me to my reason for writing to you. A very sweet lost pup narrowly missed joining us today and here is the reason why. I was able to get thru to my kind-hearted, but sort of scatter brained human. She lives not too far from you and she was whizzing down a country road this afternoon when she spotted something that looked sort of like a pile of rags. I had been watching her for some time and sending her strong messages to drive on that particular road because I had also been watching that “pile of rags” which was really an extremely emaciated, exhausted, totally without hope large puppy. Well, she saw it and slowed down and I thought “Oh good!” she is going to stop. But , no, she drove right on by . So I gathered up every ounce of concentration and sent her a huge plea for compassion for the dog. And, amazing as it sounds, she heard me and better yet, listened to me. She turned around and went back and was so very glad she did because the pile of rags was the poor little dog. He had totally given up and was just curled in a ball by the side of the road. She checked with some people living near-by and they said they had seen it earlier in the day in their neighborhood. Also a nice young Amish guy stopped his buggy and said he had also seen it a few miles down the road earlier in the day. She determined that the pup (a male) was not going to bite and with a lot of urging finally got him to stand up. He was very weak and wobbly and so extremely thin that he could scarcely walk. But she was able to coax him into her van and drove to her home with him. Her long suffering husband helped get him into their basement and put him in a crate. And then I sent her another quick message and reminded her that the shelter was still open. So after contacting the shelter, she and her husband loaded him back up in her van and took him directly there. The shelter staff need a big vote of thanks for their role in this rescue too. They were very gracious and helpful in getting him inside and into a nice warm cage. He was given food, water and shelter and his gratitude was 100% evident. My friends up here and I are proud of my human and Ark Animal Rescue. All of you- KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. Your old friend, Barkus the Heavenly Beagle

Barkus, you are amazing! You saved that dogs life! Nothing any better than this.  My poof is wagging and I even told the pups about this.  They listened very well and said they would like to meet such a celebrity.  I said pups, not quite yet but someday you will.  Keep up the good work!.  By the way, I had my mom call the shelter and that dogs is doing great!

Your ’fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Love – Laugh –Wag - Adopt

Dear Buddy,

You may have heard some new things going on at the shelter.  New faces, new jobs, new responsibilities but the same ol love for all the dogs and cats.  Let me share with you a little about who is there and what they are doing.  Rebecca has been at the shelter for some time. She is now in charge of the Animal Care.  That means to me that she takes the animals to the vet when needed and sees that they get all the medicine they need and that they are eating and doing some other things like they should be.  Damian is our Animal Control guy now.  He is the guy that will come get a stray when you call.  He loves working with the animals.  Brenda is our new HR person.  I had to ask what that was.  She has a lot of experience and has two 12 year old dogs. NLicole is kind of new to Ark.  She is a dog trainer.  She loves to see dogs adopted and loves to have them behave.  So when you go to Ark to adopt you may see these faces or when you go to drop off donated stuff you may see them too.

Here is one for the books.  I taught the pups something new.  Ha. You guessed it probably not the best thing to teach them but I got a laugh out of it and so did their mom.  You see in the bathroom there are empty TP rolls.  Do you know how much fun empty TP roll can be?  Well I am here to tell you they can be a riot.  So I grabbed one from the wastebasket and took off.  The pups followed me and before my town mom could catch the three of us we had that thing shredded!  I loved it.  I am wondering if they will investigate when I am not there to show them. 

Last week the pups found the robins in the yard.  Their mom had shoveled a couple of paths so they could do what they need to do outside.  When the sun came out so did the robins.  They were running up and down the shoveled path and so were Sunny and Lolli.  I heard my town mom say it looked like the Indy 500 race. 

Ark has a fundraiser coming up at the American Legion.  I have a great idea why don’t you plan to attend, get a great meal and help Ark at the same time.  April 14 is the date for your calendar and you can come anytime between 5 and 8 pm.  I doubt I get to go but I always hope there is a chance.

Here are a couple of funnies for you. Where do you find a dog with no legs?– Right where you left it.  Did you hear about the dog who could not stop talking like a horse? It was a dog and pony show. One more – what do you get when you cross a dog with a calculator?  Someone you can count on.

Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Live – Love – Laugh – Wag - Adopt

Dear Buddy,

My mom told me to write you. She said we're related somehow?  I'm not sure how a cat and a dog can be related? I believe my mom said something about, "cousins."

 I was writing you to ask, "Have you thanked your veterinarian today?"  I hear a lot of people complain about how expensive it is to go to the veterinarian and I'm not a fan of going to the vet myself.  But I'm VERY grateful for veterinarians and their staff, if it weren't for them, I wouldn't be writing you this letter.

While my mom was out of town and I had a babysitter, I got bored and decided to swallow something that shouldn't go in my tummy. I bet you're surprised to hear that Kitty cats are silly enough to swallow something they shouldn't.  That is usually a 'dog thing'. (No offense Buddy.) My mom rushed home to take me to the veterinarian even though I couldn't tell her what I did or why my tummy was upset. She knew that I wasn't myself. The veterinarian took x-rays of my tummy and suspected I got into trouble. I had to have surgery and my mom was so worried. I don't remember much only that I woke up and I felt better and all the fur was missing off of my tummy. Oh, and I had to wear a stupid cone for weeks. Thankfully several weeks later I was all better and back to my usual spunky self my mom knows and loves.

 The veterinarian told my mom that I had swallowed the knot from the end of a pair of flannel pajama bottoms. You know us kitties we like to play with strings!  If you're a kitty owner be very cautious about all kinds of string and thread some kitties like to put it in their mouth and then they cannot get it out again and right down to the old tummy it goes causing big problems.

 Mostly, my mom wanted me to write to let you know veterinarians saved my life. Veterinarians go to school for a long time and they learn more than just one kind of pet and their patients cannot tell them what is wrong. They have to be smart detectives! Veterinarian's work very hard for the love of us furry kind and sometimes we pets don't act too grateful.  So next time your human is at the veterinarian's office take a moment to thank them, maybe pat them on the head and give them their favorite treat. Oh wait, I don't think humans like pats on the head.  My mom jokes that I'm her million-dollar cat but I was her million-dollar cat before I swallowed the knot!

I hope you're enjoying springtime. I am really enjoying all the action on Bird TV! Take care, Your cousin, Marie Sputnik.

Marie, I heard about your little adventure while your mom was visiting in Indiana.  I also know she was very worried and upset.  I am sure glad things turned out as they did.  I have seen some of your pictures and of your brother too.  Keep me posted on your adventures.  Your right, we need to thank our vets! Thanks for the letter.

Your forever friend,

Buddy

Live – Love – Laugh – Wag - Adopt

Dear Buddy,
My name is Tux and I am a foster dog to some of your friends who live in Carmel, In. They are so sweet and
saved me from living another day in the shelter. I mean all of the people at the shelter were nice and loved on
me, but when I was in my crate there, I felt very lonely and sad.
See, this was my third time at the shelter. I just didn't understand why and still wonder why I was there, again.
My first owner surrendered me for unknown reasons. The second family returned me to the shelter because
their home was too loud for me and they had a special needs child. I tried to be a good boy, but the situation
made me nervous and I would get sick to my tummy. Then a third adopter took me in and my owner recently
got sick, so I went back to the shelter. In my 6 years, I have been to the shelter way too much. I guess the
shelter posted my sweet face on Facebook and my foster momma saw it and said she would save me with the
help of the rescue she works through.
So, here I am...in this home where these hoomans talk to me and whisper sweet nothings to me. They also have
two dogs that look like me. I am a bit nervous around them because they like to play a lot. I am getting more
comfortable though and I even look for my foster brother and sister to "play." I just want to be a normal dog, in
a safe home and with hoomans who will not give up on me. This foster home give me hope...they say the wuv
me, they give me treats, I get to cuddle in bed with them and they even take me on walks. I whimper
throughout the day a lot, because I am just so excited to maybe finding my forever home. Oh, did I mention
they have lots of doggie toys for me to play with and chew on?
I try every day to gain some confidence and trust everyone. I just want lots of wuv and kisses. When I found out
my foster momma hears your stories every week, I knew I needed to tell you my story. After all, I am a Boston
Terrier and I think I am the best dog ever!
Tux,
So great to hear from you. A home is a great thing to have and those hoomans are good too. And, treats are
great also. I am very interested in how you got your name? I like it. I have a cousin who is a Boston and her
name is Ziva. I hope your foster family will let you stay with them. They are good people that come from
parents who also love dogs. This is good. Thank you so much for the note. Please keep in touch and let me
know how things are going.
Your ‘fur-ever’ friend,
Buddy
Live – Love – Laugh – Wag - Adopt

Dear Friends,

When I am at my town mom’s house for a sleepover it is an interesting time.  She has as you now know 2 sort of pups.  They sleep with her and you know I get to sleep with her too. So we have three dogs in a bed.  That isn’t the big deal what is interesting is we also have a squirrel, a schnazie, a monkey, a sunbeam, a giraffe, Christmas tree, a purple and green worm and even sometimes a deer antler.  You see this one newbie to the crew thinks it is great to bring all her toys to bed too.  I made the decision the bed isn’t for me.  I have a special bed in the closet, a huge fluffy pillow that fits me just fine and I don’t have to squirm around all the extra goodies.  Can you tell me why Lolipop thinks she needs all these extra things in bed with her?  One night not too long ago I woke up in the middle of the night to this “squeak” it was a frog. I am glad it was a squeak and not a croak or a ribbit.  I must say life has been interesting with the new dogs. Some of you may know by now but if you don’t I want you to know Cindy at Ark has resigned.  She has decided after 8 years it is time for her to do something else.  I want to thank her for helping so many of my pals find homes and for loving all that have come and gone at the rescue.  Best of luck Cindy, my poof is wagging for all you did at Ark. My friend shared a story that is good for us to remember.  Her friend found a puppy she fell in love with.  She took the pup home and loved her for several days.  The pup then became sick and so she took her to the vet.  The vet shook her head and said the pup was extremely ill.  Then the sad thing happened, the pup passed away.  Please when you find an animal you like and then fall in love with that you take that pup to a vet for a check up before you purchase.  It was a sad thing for all involved, the gal and the pup.  Not all who raise animals make sure they are healthy before they leave the breeder .Here is something to make you smile: Two dog owners are arguing about whose pet is smarter. “My dog is so smart,” says the first owner, “that every morning he goes to the store and buys me a sesame seed bagel with chive cream cheese, stops off at Starbucks and picks me up a mocha latte, and then comes home and turns on ESPN, all before I get out of bed.” “I know,” says the second owner. “How do you know?” the first demands. “My dog told me.

”Your ’fur-ever’ friend,

Buddy

Laugh – Love – Live – Wag - Adopt  

Check Back for more Buddy information!