A Lexi Update with Photos

Foster Mom sent this great update:
Lexi's new mom is doing an awesome job keeping me updated on the progress of my little foster girl. She's also sending some great pics. Here is a link to some new pics I uploaded.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/debsmartt/sets/72157608045439932/

Update from Furever Mom Linda:
Lexi is gaining more confidence each day. Today she thoroughly explored my yard and had fun playing with the oranges that had fallen on the ground. She picked them up with her mouth and carried them around the yard. If I threw one she chased it. I also had a variety of toys including the big ball in the yard and she played with them all.

My mom used to have a grapefruit tree in the back yard and Duffy used to play with the green grapefruits that fell off the tree. Of course, they were sour and he used to make the funniest noise when he bit into one.

Lexi did great on her walk tonight. My girlfriend wasn't home so I walked the dogs by myself. Lexi was so happy to go for her walk. Her tail was up and her nose was to the ground sniffing all the new smells.

At one point one of my mom's neighbors came toward us with her two big female dogs. I told her that Lexi hasn't been around big dogs so she went down a side street. When we came to the place her dogs had been, Lexi peed and scratched the ground! I guess she wasn't going to be intimidated by two big dogs!

Another time, several teenage boys came walking toward us making a lot of noise talking and laughing. Lexi didn't act frightened, just on the alert. The boys ended turning down a side street before they got to us, so I am not sure how she would have reacted if they got closer.

Later my mom's neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Day, came down the street. They stopped to chat and I told them that Lexi was scared of men, but do you know that she walked halfway up to them! She didn't seem afraid of Mr. Day, just curious.

After our walk, we were watching the baseball game at my mom's house and I went into the kitchen. Lexi was sleeping by my chair in the TV room. I started getting our gear ready to leave and must have made too much noise and woke her. Suddenly I started hearing barking from the TV room. At first I wasn't sure who barked, but it was Lexi. The noise must have startled her. When driving to my mom's tonight, mom was holding her and all of a sudden someone barked. I am not sure who barked, but I think it was Lexi. So . . . she seems to be finding her voice. Not hard to do with her big mouthed brother around!!!

She is very puppy like, always putting something in her mouth. I had the handymen over yesterday doing some work while the dogs were at mom's. Last night when I took them out for a potty break, I saw Lexi pick up something white. I thought it was a feather and walked over to retrieve it. Well it wasn't a feather, it was a cigarette butt from the handyman! I took it away and told her no. What's the chance that she would find a cigarette butt in that big yard???

Last night I was showing my friend Diane the video you made of Lexi playing ball and when she heard your voice her ears were twitching back and forth. She will never forget you. Dogs don't forget. There are many stories of dogs who have gotten lost and have been separated from their owners for a long time and they remember them when they are finally reunited.

She gets to meet our vet tomorrow. It will be interesting to see how she does with him. I'll let you know.

Lexi sends hugs and kisses to her first momma!

No More Sad Songs My Darling Lil Soprano..

What a cruel role you were cast in the day you were born to sing for your life ..just livestock to br bred..till dead. The only hands that ever touched you did so out of greed and cruelity. Snapped up up at the nap of the neck and sometimes kicked into cages so filthy God was ashamed! You did not know the cleansing taste of pure clean water..often times you had no water for days at a time. They fed you only when they had to..when you were ready to be bred..you were hungry for soo long!I do not know how you lived almost eaten alive by all the insectsthat saw you as rotting flesh from so many open wounds from being exposed to the terrible weather year in and out.No one ever spoke sweetly to you, petted your soft head or ever touched you in a gentel way at during your entire lil life. So you sang a song of a soprano! They cry the songs of the lost hope in the world..of love lost and cruelity and misery and most of all injustice. She wanted the world to know thru her crys and the rest of the Chourus that this travisty must stop! She and the other sang and thier tunes have indeed changed! Sophies never going to want for anything for as long as she lives! She is a retired Soprano and now our fulltime spoiled rotten Cairn Terrier Queen! I cannot wait to start loving on her! Sorry this was so long.. I was just moved to express it! Terri B MommY to Baby Dumpling and soon to Sophie Bruno

Happy 4th Gotcha Day to Ciara F!!

Talk about blossoming!

Our little princess surely did once she "came home." "Skinny" pic (left) is from when CP first saved her life.

Pic on right is the way she looks now...tho it doesn't reveal Her Highness' ability to rule.

Montez in Mo

Unity is now Penny

What a WONDERFUL young couple adopted Unity/Penny today. They are just perfect. Jamie already has plans for taking her everywhere. There was that initial “oh, I don’t know about you” by her, but as soon as we all came in the house and sat down, all was well. Here are the photos I took, and as you can see; Miri fell in instant love with “Penny’s” new dad, Steve. In short order, both Miri and Penny fell asleep, with Penny on the lap of her new daddy. I am also putting these pictures on the album; link below. Just haven’t gotten to it yet. AmyYes, it’s noticeably different here without her, she is one special Corn-dog

A Visit with Snickerdoodle

Hi all:
Myra and I got an invitation to visit my former foster dog Snickerdoodle today. It was a gorgeous October day - leaves falling all around and 3 Cairns racing around the yard chasing chipmunks and each other. They all had a grand time. Snickerdoodle was my foster for 18 months before he found the perfect home right in the town next to me!! His family is crazy about him (of course - he was the sweetest dog in the world - just a little "funny looking" ) and he loves his new brother Brodie. They race down the back stairs to the fenced in yard every morning on squirrel patrol. Mom comes home every day at noon to let them out and she works part time 3 times a week so they have company a lot. He has a new name - kind of - Allyson's Dad loves him too and has taken to calling him Skipper so that has caught on although Allyson still calls him Snickers sometimes as well. I think Skipper is a sweet name and it's so nice he loves Allyson's Dad - he loves them all - they are his family now and I couldn't be more thrilled. And Myra had a chance to play with the boys - she is exhausted now and sleeping on her Princess Cushion, snoring away. So if you have had a foster for awhile and worry they won't find their adoptive home, never give up - the perfect person/family is out there - it is well worth the wait for them to find "their" dog. Sorry I forgot my camera but we were having so much fun, I probably wouldn't have forgotten to take pics anyway. I finallly had to drag Myra away as she had a chippie cornered under some lumber and was totally ignoring the boys... Typical
Susan in Vermont

Soulful Sonnet

Here is a photo of my little sweetheart. Steve was playing with the camera and got lucky. She has the most soulful eyes at times. Cheryl in NY

Here in This House (A Poem by Laura Cathleen Patterson

Here in this house.....
I will never know the loneliness I hear in the barks of dogs "out there."
I can sleep soundly, assured that when I wake, my world will not have changed.
I can trust arms that hold, hands that touch...knowing no matter what they do, they do it for the good of me.
I will never know hunger or the fear of not knowing if I'll eat.
I will not shiver in the cold or grow weary from the heat.
My fur will shine and never be dirty or matted.
Here in this house.....
No matter what I look like, I will be considered beautiful and thought to be of value.
I will be talked to and even if I don't understand, I can enjoy the warmth of the words.
I will never be a substitute for anything I am not.
I will never be used to improve someone's image of themselves.
I will learn the things I need to know to be liked by all.
I will be loved because I am who I am and not someone's idea of what I should be.
I will be given a Name so I may know who I am among many.
My name will be used in joy and I will love the sound of it.
I will never suffer for someone's anger, impatience or stupidity.
If I do not learn my lessons well, they will look to the teacher for blame.
I will feel the sun's heat and the rain's coolness and be alowed to smell all that can reach my nose.
I will never be cast out because I am too old, too ill, too unruly or not new enough.
Here in this house......
There will be an effort to communicate with me on my level.I
f ill, I will be doctored.
If scared, I will be calmed.
If sad, I will be cheered.
My life is a responsibility and not an afterthought.
I will run, jump and act silly because my "back is being watched" and
I'm in no danger if I let my guard down.
I will learn that humans can be almost as kind and fair as dogs.
Here in this house....
I will belong.

Copywright~~ Laura Cathleen Patterson"My" Chihuahuas 1999-2004

Macademia Toxicosis in Dogs

Recently, Mom Charlene had a scare with cairn Tasha, thinking she had a torn ACL or some other type of paralysis. A local Vet visit only added to the confusion so they mae a trip to UC Davis. Here is her story (it has a VERY happy ending) with an important message for all dog owners.

We are very, very impressed with the Veterinary Speciality Hosptial/ UC Davis. Their care and concern was above and beyond any that we have seen regarding our four legged friends. We arrived early by 30 or so minutes to our appointment (didn't know how traffic was going to be).They checked us in and told us to take a seat.In the waiting room.

They have a big flat screen TV going and it is all about the different things that can harm an animal. Up pops "Macadamia Nuts". The following was what was televised: "Dogs develop a weakness with the inability to stand on their rear legs. Often unable to rise. They are stressed and will usually pant. Sometimes followed by vomiting or Ataxia (walking wobbly)."

I asked Bill if he just saw that and he said he didn't. I told him what I had read and he said 'so'........ I said the dumb crows/ravens have been dropping the macadamia nuts from our neighbors tree into the backyard and Tasha has been picking them and playing with them and chewing on them.

We get called into see Dr. Jackson (UC Davis doctor). His exam of Tasha was every which way but loose. Poor girl. She was a true trooper of being pulled, twisted, stretched, bent, pushed upon, pulled upon, walked, ran, you name it - he did it to her. We talked and questioned each other for a good 30 minutes of her background, her activities, sleeping, eating, pooping and such. At which time he said that this NOT ONE THING WRONG with Tasha..... maybe a little arthritis in her hips, but that is minimal. She is good to go.

We talked more about the hole in her left tibia (where the other vet's thought she had a previous ACL repair). He said that he could not see any signs (shading) of any repair damage would have been if she had had a ACL repair. The only way he could really know was to go in and we all said no.

Anyway - long story short - Towards the end of the exam, I asked him about what I saw on the TV regarding the macadamia nuts and how Tasha was always playing with them and then chewing on them.He said that could have been it. As the toxicosis wears off in 24 to 48 hours. But too much time had gone by to run any tests to determine it.

We are in LOVE with this place! We will still go to our regular vet for all routine services. But we will never, ever step foot into that other "specialists" place, even tho they are much, much closer. Thank you for all your wonderful thoughts, prayers and best wishes........ Our Tasha girl will be with us for a long, long time to come, without the need for surgery.

Here are two very good sites regarding Macadamia Nuts and other poisonous plants, etc. to dogs. http://www.aspca.org/site/DocServer/toxbrief_0402.pdf?docID=115

http://www.entirelypets.com/toxicfoods.html

Just when we all think we know it all - something comes up and we don't. --
Charlene, Bill and the T-n-T girls
Tootsie - Tasha - Oceanside, CA.

Lil Abner went HOME yesterday! Happy Forever!

Foster Mom Kim writes:

Lil Abner (aka Redford--I think they are keeping his name) was adopted into the most wonderful forever home we could have hoped for. Linda and Blaine have a very handsome male Cairn, Dude, and two Italian Mastiffs. I have already received two updates from Linda and Redford is adjusting very well.

He came into CP last May with heartworms and hookworms and eventually needed two teeth pulled. He was scared and shy and had to be coaxed out of his crate. He has learned to play with toys and other dogs and is such a sweet little boy. Linda and Blaine have the understanding and compassion to help this little boy continue on his journey.

The attached pictures is with Linda holding my Breck and Redford is to her left. Linda has joined CRM and Iknow she will share updates and pictures. This little boy is very special to me. He has been here for 5 months and became my little shadow. He will be missed, but I am so happy knowing he is in a great home for him.

Linda and Blaine, thank you so very, very much. Happy forever little boy.
Kim C in Largo, FL with Ozzie, Breck, Glynn and Foster, Grandpa Dean

Spanks Da Man

During a recent discussion on CRM of the many colors cairns can be, Kathy sent this update on her CP kid:

Spanky is registered as a Red Brindle. Take a look at his pictures now (he will be 13 in January) http://good-times.webshots.com/album/567379513pzYiXA

Kathie - Long Island, NY
Spanky (Iz a 4 eba corn terror enna wurk n prah gess)
The D ruling with a velvet paw at the Rainbow Bridge

BOOtiful Baby Dumpling!

She lets me do this stuff to her..I am an evil Mommy..ha! She's so cute it's SCARY!

Happy Halloween everyone!
-- Terri B.. Mommy to Baby Dumpling, ...Fl.

Medications That Poison Our Pets

Ruth H in Orlando FL sent this important article from the ASPCA

Top 10 Human Medications That Poison Our Pets

Although pet parents are well aware of poisons lurking around their home, many don’t realize that some of the biggest culprits are sitting right on their own nightstands. In 2007, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center received 89,000 calls related to pets ingesting over-the-counter and prescription medications. To help you prevent an accident from happening, our experts have created a list of the top 10 human medications that most often poison our furry friends.

If you suspect your pet has ingested any of the following items, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435. And remember to keep all medications tucked away in bathroom cabinets—and far from curious cats and dogs.

NSAIDs
NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen or naproxen are the most common cause of pet poisoning in small animals, and can cause serious problems even in minimal doses. Pets are extremely sensitive to their effects, and may experience stomach and intestinal ulcers and—in the case of cats—kidney damage.

Antidepressants
Antidepressants can cause vomiting and lethargy and certain types can lead to serotonin syndrome—a condition marked by agitation, elevated body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure, disorientation, vocalization, tremors and seizures.

Acetaminophen
Cats are especially sensitive to acetaminophen, which can damage red blood cells and interfere with their ability to transport oxygen. In dogs, it can cause liver damage and, at higher doses, red blood cell damage.

Methylphenidate (for ADHD)
Medications used to treat ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in people act as stimulants in pets and can dangerously elevate heart rates, blood pressure and body temperature, as well as cause seizures.

Fluorouracil
Fluorouracil—an anti-cancer drug—is used topically to treat minor skin cancers and solar keratitis in humans. It has proven to be rapidly fatal to dogs, causing severe vomiting, seizures and cardiac arrest even in those who’ve chewed on discarded cotton swabs used to apply the medication.

Isoniazid
Often the first line of defense against tuberculosis, isoniazid is particularly toxic for dogs because they don’t metabolize it as well as other species. It can cause a rapid onset of severe seizures that may ultimately result in death.

Pseudoephedrine
Pseudoephedrine is a popular decongestant in many cold and sinus products, and acts like a stimulant if accidentally ingested by pets. In cats and dogs, it causes elevated heart rates, blood pressure and body temperature as well as seizures.

Anti-diabetics
Many oral diabetes treatments—including glipizide and glyburide—can cause a major drop in blood sugar levels of affected pets. Clinical signs of ingestion include disorientation, lack of coordination and seizures.

Vitamin D derivatives
Even small exposures to Vitamin D analogues like calcipotriene and calcitriol can cause life-threatening spikes in blood calcium levels in pets. Clinical signs of exposure—including vomiting, loss of appetite, increased urination and thirst due to kidney failure—often don't occur for more than 24 hours after ingestion.

Baclofen
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant that can impair the central nervous systems of cats and dogs. Some symptoms of ingestion include significant depression, disorientation, vocalization, seizures and coma, which can lead to death.

A Marlee Su and Digger Update

I was just on the CP website - the blog and YouTube are GREAT! I see a number of older dogs for adoption and remember adopting Taddy. NEVER regreted that although he was only with me for a little less than 4 years. He was wonderful in his own little ways. I have to admit that we didn't "bond" like with some of my others, but I deeply loved and respected him. He was just in his own little world most of the time and that was fine with both of us. As long as he could get into the window seat and enjoy a good storm now and then, he was happy.


Marlee Su is still hanging in there. She has mostly good days now but has trouble getting around some and paces the house some nights.


Digger is, well, Digger. He is the biggest sack of laziness you will ever see. Loves his bones and they seem to keep him occupied while I am at work. He would sleep in to late morning each day if I didn't get out of bed! He is my second soul dog (after my Beamer).


Take care! Kathryn, Digger and Marlee Su

Permission to flunk...granted!

Maggie/ Ghali, the 12 year old gal who was returned to the SPCA 5 times is in her forever home. We just received official permission to flunk!
The girl who "couldn't be housebroken" mastered the dog door in her first few days and hasn't had an accident in the house for 10 days.

Her reputation of "can't get along with the resident dogs" seems to be in error as well. She gets along fine with everyone here and sleeps back-to-back with our 17 year old Soft Coated Wheaten.

She is hand-shy, but another breakthrough: This morning in bed, she initiated playing - nuzzled under my hand so I roughed up her face. She did body slams with her tail wagging at full speed. When I kept my hand still, she pawed and nuzzled under it. Not bad for a dog who up to a week ago wouldn't let anyone touch her mouth or muzzle.

She follows us like a shadow and loves snuggling in the recliner. Steve, my marshmallow-hearted husband said "I don't think anybody ever gave her half a chance. She's a GREAT dog!" She's got some medical problems that we're having evaluated and treated and we're praying she has a few good years left. The minute Maureen told us this old gal was available, we KNEW she'd become a beloved member of our pack!

Keeping another of the good ones for ourselves,
Cheryl (back to a baker's dozen and loving it!)

Update on Newman FKA Wimby

I just wanted to send you an update on Newman fka Wimbledon. He's doing great. On October 4, he graduated from puppy class... yes, puppy class. He was in beginner education, but the other dogs in the class had to switch, so Newman finished the course in puppy education. There was a 10 week old westie puppy in there and just loved to play with him. He was a little shy.

Newman finished the class by mastering sit, come, down, we're working on stay (he won't let us back away). Newman also mastered shake and high five in about ten minutes during one class. The other parents looked at us longingly wishing they had such smart dogs. We were very proud. I have attached a picture of Newman from graduation.

Newman is still very attached to me, but he is starting to get closer to Mike. Newman gets aggitated if we get ready to leave. I have started to realize that I have a leaving routine I did not know I had. For example, when I shut the bedroom door, he runs to the garage door. I hadn't realized that I only shut that door when we are about to leave. He also gets excited if I put jeans on and starts to run to the door. I think that's funny. I hadn't thought about it before, but after work, I only put jeans on if I am leaving the house.

He has taught us that we have plenty of routines. But I think routines help him. Once we put him in his play pen for us to leave, he calms down and lies down on his pillow to nap. When we come home, he is sitting on his bench next to Lily's bench watching for squirrel's out of the window. No more anxiety like we had before. The only time he really gets anxious now is during thunderstorms. We had one the other night and I was able to calm him down by scooting his kennel over to the edge of the bed and putting my hand inside. He rubbed his head against my hand, made a few minor whines and went to sleep. He had been crying for half an hour before that, so this solution was a great relief.

I have also created a monster! When we first got Newman I was trying to make him feel comfortable with us so I would lay on the couch and put him on my belly. He struggled at first, but not anymore. Now he insists on lying on top of me whenever I am on the couch. When I am lying on the couch, he nows climbs up on the couch, climbs up on me and lies on my chest or belly. He even does it if Lily is already lying on me! He just has to be part of the action.

Surprisingly, we think Newman might be the dominant one. He will walk right up to Lily when she has a toy in her mouth and take it from her and she won't do anything about it. That seems like a sign of dominance, but in other ways, Lily seems dominant, so we're not sure what to think about it. We are so happy to have him and he seems happy to be here. Thanks so much for all you have done for him.

We'll update you again soon. Sincerely, Jody

WHAT A DIFFERENCE SOME LOVE MAKES!!!

Four years ago today I made the decision to adopt Ms. Lilac from Col. Potters - She came to me to foster and in a nanosecond we both knew she was home!!! Here are her "Before and After" pictures!! Ms. Lilac was a sad sick little girl way back then in October of 2004 - and now she is OUR MS. LILAC!!! - an inspiration to everyone who is fortunate enough to meet her!! HIGH FIVES TO MS. LILAC!!
- Sue M

B-Naturals Newsletter – October 2008

Teething Time!
Lew Olson, PhD Natural Health

Generally, puppies start losing their teeth between three and four months or age. Often, we will ‘forget’ that, and suddenly see a series of strange symptoms! This can include feet splaying or going flat, going ‘down in the pasterns’, sour breath, anxious behavior, sudden destruction of shoes and furniture, fussiness about eating, ears suddenly going ‘fly away’, or rose (creased) and good toplines going topsy turvy.

The most common reason for these symptoms is a concentration of nutrients going to the newly erupting teeth, and also pain from new teeth coming in. It can be an uncomfortable time for your puppy, especially when the large canines and back molars start to present.
There are several helpful things that can be done at this time. I try to remain aware of when this is occurring, and I start offering more soft recreational bones. These can include pork neck bones and pork ribs. These will help the new erupting teeth. I will also give puppies cold, large carrots at this time (cooling on the gums) as well as keeping plenty of soft, plush toys around. Bully sticks and other natural dried animal products can also be helpful.

I keep nails short and use daily walks and simple training for distraction. Puppies can get cranky during teething time, so I am also alert to know when I just need to put them up and not press long training sessions during this time.

Sometimes in certain breeds, ears may need to be taped. How to do this can vary from breed to breed, so be sure to check with your breeder, or on the internet on the correct procedure for your breed.

Make sure there is some form of vitamin D in the puppy’s diet during teething. Vitamin D can be found in the Bertes Daily Blend, and also in Cod Liver Oil capsules. Vitamin D helps with the intake of calcium, which is important for puppies at this time. If the diet is a commercial diet, or a raw diet that is at least 40% raw meaty bones, do not add more calcium, only vitamin D may be needed.

Sometimes smaller, more frequent meals are helpful during this time, as eating may be painful due to sore gums. Some puppies may prefer raw meaty bones at this time, while other may prefer softer foods. Understand this may due to mouth pain.

Around five to six months, all the adult teeth should be present. Always check your puppy’s mouth to make sure that any puppy teeth haven’t become wedged between the adult teeth and that the gums look healthy. Once you and your puppy have left this stage, everything will start to go back to normal.

http://b-naturals.com

Halloween Cairn-style

. . . THEY DID THE MASH . . .

they did the MONNNNNSTER MASH . . .

THEY DID THE MASH. . .

Col. Potter, and Lynda Gilley, PROUDLY announces our current YouTube video

MONSTER MASH

featuring Your Cairn Kids with a few cousins.

LET'S **MASH** OUT PUPPY MILLS!

Click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRYpirKl04o

Feel free to share this universal "MASH OUT PUPPY MILLS" video with breed friends. Thank you to those who shared your photo's.

Please don't forget to rate the video . . . 5 being best . . . and leave a message on the video. We REALLY APPRECIATE your comments!!

Lexi Is Now Home in Florida

From Foster Mom Deb S: Last weekend, I flew my little foster Lexi to Tampa to place her in the arms of her forever mom. It was a wonderful experience getting to help Lexi settle in to her new home and to meet her new mom Linda, nana Lois and furbrother Duffy. Still, it broke my heart to leave her and I'm afraid I shed tears all the way back home. Still, I find great consolation in knowing what a fantastic forever home she now has. Linda has been sharing updates and Lexi is doing just great. Here's a link to a picture of Lexi and Linda. http://www.flickr.com/photos/debsmartt/2941601848/

A Cairn-related Website

Today I was reading about some of the differences between the American Cairns and the European Cairns and came across this link while surfing around:
http://www.animalstamps.com/cairn.htm
Pretty neat!
Kari in Winnipeg, MB
with Cairnadians:
Hershey - Mom's special boy
Dilly - foster flunkie
Viola - the boss!

Easy Way To Find All Veterinary Specialists

I know there have been many, many times here on CRM when someone has inquired where to find a veterinary specialist such as a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon or an Internist, etc. The easiest way to find whatever specialty you might need is to go to the specialty's Association and search there.
BUT...finding each of those specialty's names, websites, etc., is often a daunting task indeed! I just found this great website where you can request, by "specialty" (such as "Cardiology", "Dentistry",etc.) and/or by "Organization" (such as "American College of Animal Behaviorists," "American College of Dematology," etc.). Immediately the appropriate person, place, phone number and website appears.
From there, you can link to the speciality you need and seach on the individual website by area to find a specialist near you.
Here's the link: http://www.avma.org/education/abvs/specialty_orgs/avdc.asp
Warmly, Michele

Hockey & Kassie go to the Blue Angels Show

We took Kassie and Hockey to see the Blue Angels ( http://www.blueangels.navy.mil/index.htm) fly in San Francisco yesterday and the both of them did beautifully. I was expecting Kassiet o act like a ninny with all of those pesky flying rats "seagulls" like my JRT does, but she didn't she was composed and just looked like at the rats like a good girl. I was even impressed how the both of them didn't shake or climb into our laps when the LOUD jets flew directly overhead. The past two years with Buddy (RB 2-13-08) who shook like a leaf when the planes flew and the birds too. It was so nice, even though the others around us commended my JRT Bailey for shooing away the birds, she's a nut. I had Kassie's Adopt Me bandana on and sure enough she caught the eye of quite a few people. In fact I had one couple very very interested in the sweet thing. These bandanas really work!!
Katie, Tim and Hockey
Foster mom to Kasold (Kassie)

Cairnadian Roxy is a Hero!!!

Heather H sent this:
There is an elderly gentleman on our street who owns Molly, a beautiful brindle cairn. She and Roxy exchange pleasantries through their respective fences when one or the other is being walked. Today I had Roxy and Mia (our papillon) out for a walk when I met my neighbour with an empty harness but no Molly. He had inadvertently left the gate open, and Molly was gone.

Now today was beautiful, and the traffic was heavy. I thought I knew where Molly might go and headed the girls in that direction. Sure enough there was little Molly snot trying to play with another dog while the dog's owners tried to grab Molly. She would not let them touch her, and their dog was getting snappy. Roxy gave out a mighty "Woof"! when she saw her friend, and Molly came running.

Mia (being her usual diva self) picked a fight with the new dog while Roxy playfully jumped on Molly giving me just the opportunity needed to grab her. My 2 were still leashed, and were now coiled around my legs, but I did manage to get Molly under an arm and take her home to her happy dad. For once, our Rox got it right!!

A Thank You from Abbey's Mom

I just want to say a Great big " Thanks " to Lorraine for her work with CP. It was so great meeting you and your hubby. and your fur kids. I have had my precious little Abbey home for 3 days now and she is exactely like Lorraine described in her write ups about her. Ab's begining to run around the yard and bark at things. She even ran an errand with Sandy (her new sister) around the yard. They were so cute together. The 3 of them - Abbey, Sandy & Tibo - haven't quite decided how this works between them or who fits where just yet. But things are looking good so far. Abbey will be allowed to watch & see and praised as she grows into being the other princess in this home. I don't want to get mushy, but I just can't understand how anyone could treat these little babies the way they do in the mills, Thank you all, who are Col Potter Rescue and all you do. Marilyn S in Tx.

Van Gogh's (Sweeney) Adoption Day

A little over a year ago this boy was delivered from the Devil's Den - he was the very first puppy mill pull done by Kathy & Barney H. I don't think any of us will forget Kathy's tale of that day and the first hand observations of a bad puppy mill. Sweeney was that boy.

He had a terrible fear of men and scared of many things in our everyday world - as many PM kids are. His first foster mom was Carla L who gave Van Gogh (Sweeney) a wonderful start. I was his second foster mom. He came to me perfectly housetrained (thank you Carla!!). His fear of men has been a work in progress. He has come a long way from that horrible puppy mill. To make it in this world, Van Gogh had to have a special home - loving women and men to nurture him. Today Van Gogh went to that special home! His new moms are a mother-daughter team - Carol & Amy. Amy's boyfriend John (since he's a frequent visitor) is also part of the family. And Scrappy - their 15 y/o cairn boy who's been lonely since the loss of his cairn brother, Cesar. Armed with treats and cheese, we had a bonding party in my backyard. Van Gogh will be forever known as Sweeney. A picture is worth a thousand words - Sweeney has sent you thousands!!
Carolynne in Ft. Wayne IN

Addy's first vacation

Hi everyone, I just wanted to share my photo album from Addy's first vacation. http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0CaOHLVyzZsnGw
We took Addy, along with Trixie and Zoey, South of the Border, down Mexico way. This was Addy's first really long ride in a vehicle, about 8 hours, and she was an absolute angel. Then again, she usually is. She did get sick on the way down through the winding switchback road of the Salt River Canyon, but was fine on the way back. I was driving on the trip back...that's all I'm sayin'. :o)
We've had Addy for almost 4 months now and she's been doing very well, but is a changed girl after this trip. She was really scared and shaking when we put her in her crate in the car; she's usually not crated in the car, so maybe she associated that with going to another home yet again? But after we got to the Mexico casa and unpacked she settled in nicely. Although one strange behavior - we had to wash her bedding when we got there, and she DID NOT like the smell of someone else's laundry soap. At bedtime, she was curled up under the chair next to her crate, and she LOVES her crate. She got used to it pretty quickly though. It's too comfy to resist.
We took nightly walks along the tidal flats after the tide went out and she loved that, but doesn't like the water. So of course her minion (me) picked her up to cross the tidal channels, and she squirmed when she wanted down.
When we got home to Show Low, Addy walked in, sniffed her day bed, snuggled her stuffed monkey, snuggled her blankie, and went about her business. I guess Goldilocks wanted to make sure nobody was sleeping in HER bed when she was gone. Since we got back home, she has a different relationship with the other two girls. She was zooming in the yard after Trixie yesterday, and was actually jumping and playing with Trixie and Zoey this morning. It makes my heart feel big when I see her like that. It really is true the more love you have, the more you have to share!
Maybe in the future, a sis her size???
Sherry in AZAddy "Chunkey Monkey", the cairnTrixie "Boo", the labZoey "Bo", the labWinnie "Best Dog on the Mountain", cairn mix, over the rainbow at 18

Bib (now Skye) goes to his forever

Well, it's done. The Felton's just left with my baby boy, Bib. Donna, Bib's new mommy is a very sweet, calm woman. They brought Mac with them, their 17 month old Cairn. What a character that little man is! LOL He and Bib sniffed butts, decided they smelled fine and ran around the yard. Bib barely barked at anyone, which is shocking in itself, but he also came closer to them than he has to anyone else, besides my DH and me. He's known that something is going on because he's been squirrelly all day.We hung out for about an hour, got the paperwork signed and they were ready to go. While hanging out, I handed Bib over to Donna. He tried to fight going to her, but she didn't back up like some people would. She just calmly took him from me, sat down with him and he melted right into her arms and stayed there. He was fine, no fear, just relaxed in her arms. And THAT is how I know he has the right home. Donna's husband is disabled and not too steady on his feet, but he lumbered over and quietly put his hands on either side of Bib's face and talked to him quietly. Bib just listened to him, looked him in the eyes, tilting his head.. No thrashing, no panic, nothing. Bib is with his family now. His new name is Skye and he is already loved.On the funny side, they loaded Bib up into his crate, put Mac into the car, closed the door and Mac promptly locked the doors. Yep, the keys were in the car. We had to call a locksmith to get them into the car. LOL! Bib slept in his crate in the car quietly and Mac was busy taunting the adults with the fact that they couldn't get into the car. It was actually very funny. My 9 month old, Uber took that opportunity to fool everyone into thinking he's a sweet adorable boy. He and Elspeth had a great time with Donna's family. If every one of my babies approve of this family, then I know Bib is now blessed. My camera memory is full and the camera refuses to work, so I have no pictures. Just seeing Bib so relaxed in Donna's arms was so heartwarming I desperately wanted a picture of it. Donna assured me that she will send plenty along with updates. She was so nice that I didn't have the heart to tell her she'd better, cause I knew where she lived. =) Congratulations little Bib/Skye on your new, loving family. You will be very missed! Again, SO MANY THANKS to Jana Phillips for finding this exceptional home for Bib. With his fears it could have taken a very long time to place him, but Jana came through with the perfect family for our very special boy. Christy, Jeff and the OK fur herd

Stewart - In Disgrace, In Misoory

Hi. Your boi Stewart here.
I has bad newz. I is in disgrace this morning. And I deserves it. Just not for the reason that my Alice thinks.
So, I wuz having a gud morning. I got up, I went potty, I did sum hunting, I caym inside, and I had my breakfast. Then things went wrong.
Alice wanted me to go in the fambly room with Canada. I proposed an alternate course of ackshun - I wanted to go in Mommy's room and try to steel Chopin's food. Alice offered me a bribe - she said she'd share her breakfast of pumpkin muffin with me. I wuzn't quite buyin' it, so she produced the aforementioned muffin, and set it on the table. Beeing a fair-minded boi, I accepted this token of gud faith, and went into the fambly room.
I wuz THEN informed that Alice needed to go check on the laundry. I wuzn't very happy, but she wuz doing it for Mommy, so I acquiesed to this deelay. By the time she reemerged from the depths of the basement (a very scary place, if I does say so myself), I wuz ready for my bribe. I barked at her, to let her know that I was quite famished.
Then she wanted to go get Cider and Maggie! That wuz the last straw. I is a payshent boi, but I haz my limits. While she went and grabbed Cider, I jumped up on her chair, grabbed the muffin, and took it down to the carpet. Knowing that she would be unhappy with my drastic measures, I proceeded to dispose of the evidence. And that wuz when she walked in.
Alice is unhappy 'cuz I stole her muffin. I iz ashamed that I didn't dispose of the evidence fast enough. In the fyoocher, I will do better.
Your boi Stewart Wagers
http://www.kodakgallery.com/Slideshow.jsp?mode=fromshare&Uc=4vvqpnr.2c5wma2r&Uy=12xj57&Ux=0

Nod has a New Mom and Brothers!!!

Foster Mom Deb in New Mexico writes:

Noddy left here this morning at 8am. His new mom has two other CP boys, Chili and Egan. Nod will keep his name. Mom came in yesterday and spent the night and just loved on little Nod all night long. Nod has really been a sweetie and deserves his new forever home! I am just thrilled for him. I shed some tears, but had to go back in to the other two fosters and my four, and they are keeping me too busy to brood too long. I cry when each one leaves, but this time was hard as it was to say goodbye, with the houseful I have here, it was good to know that Noddy is going to a wonderful forever home where mom is home all the time and he will only have two brothers to play with.
Happy forever little Nod!
Deb in NM

Cinderella Bella has a Furever Castle

Foster Mom Mary N sent this happy report:

My little girl met her new Mom at the dog park yesterday. Belle immediately fell in love with Susan's daughter, Lauren, who is a KU student and has her own Cairn girl. I was very surprised that Belle seemed fairly relaxed and enjoying the attention so much. Susan reports that they met her husband and other dog, Sydney (Fox Terrier), at a neutral area when they got home. There were sniffs sniffs, and all seemed well.

Belle is adopted in Overland Park, part of the KC metro area, so very close to me. Belle ate when she arrived home, pottied outside, and then went to her crate for early bedtime.

She is such a dear little girl who has been through so much abuse and neglect, that this is a dream come true for her. My little Cinderella is now thinking of being a princess. Pictures of Susan and her lovely daughter Lauren (Mom to Cairn, Zoey).

Ruthie Rose Turns 3

We're celebrating Ruthie's 3rd birthday today! My Dad, who does the grocery shopping, just said, "I'll get the f-r-o-s-t-y p-a-w-s when I go to Publix." Tell me he doesn't love these kids!

We also have a house guest - a 1 year-old JRT mix. So there have been many play sessions and toy box raids.

Ruthie was a December holiday gift to a family who was not familiar with the terrier cairnitude. She came into Col. Potter's loving care via Sandy A in Houston the following June. Thanks to a quick approval from Mo, I snatched her up and she was on the plane to Jax.

Ruthie is a delightful cairn - very playful and loving. Her favorite place is by my side but she also rousts the varmints in the backyard. And she plays a mean game of "dish hockey" - you can catch her video.

Thank you Col. Potter for helping to make this very special girl a happy part of my life.

September Adoptions

September was a record-breaking month - 52 adoptions!! Fifteen cairns were adopted by their Foster Parents and 4 families were blessed to adopted 2 cairns - another record!!
Almena in CA
Andover in WA
Assaria now Hanna in TX
Augusta in CA
Bandit in DE
Beijing in SC
Benny now Bennie in RI
Betsy in IL
Bezoeker in OH
Bixby in AZ
Blanket in OR
Bonnie Blue now Sophie in WA
Booties in OR
Breven now Bear in IL
Carpenter a FTA
Chickadee in IA
Dream in CO
Dulinsky now Mr. Dooley in MN
Edwards in Nova Scotia Canada
Etheridge in CO
Feirin in NC
Haskell now Rascal in CA
Henri in British Columbia Canada
Kaleb now Brodie in PA
Ketchikan now Christopher in FL (FTA)
Kiruna in GA
Love now Candy in PA
Mambo now Sophie in AZ
Mari in TX
Martha now Ginger in FL
Maxxie in MA
Nanny in IL
Naughty now Chrissy in PA
Neha in SC
Nugent now Teddy in OR
Oasis in FL
O'Hara in CO
Oz in MD
PeeWee in GA a FTA
Pipit in GA
Raffle now Gigi in MI
Rayne in OR
Romney now Finnen in CO
Rufus in CO
Sandpiper in GA
Sitka in MO
Sparrow in FL
Tamara in IL
Tango now Phoebe in AZ
Time in IL
Turner now Amber in MI
Twilight now Lucy in OH
Wilson now Dilly in Manitoba Canada

The Tea Party

CRM Member Bobbie shared this precious video of her Granddaughter Gracie and Cairn Tori having a tea party. Bobbie said "Tori loved it....especially the vanilla wafers."

See The Tea Party online http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=712e3da9d1462d9e1b8b84&skin_id=1010&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

Bragging about Blessing (now Cassie)

Proud Foster Mom Ann writes:
Please check this out! This in Angela with her adopted CP girl, Blessing (called Cassie) along with her other cairn Razberry. We often baby-sit these 2 since Cassie still has a few fears that we can handle better than strangers (and we love them both) so we get to see them often.

Raz is in front of Angie and Cassie is (of course) looking away from the camera, but doing so well with her fears from her life as a PM dog. Cassie is the girl who kept Wayne "at bay" in the kitchen all day until I could get home from work, when she first arrived. I forgot to put up the baby gate before leaving...didn't know she was so serious about her fears of men :-)

Cassie has a most wonderful Mom, companion cairn, and now a new man in her life...she's living in "high cotten" and learning what respect and love is all about. I'm just so proud of Cassie and absolutely adore her Mom, Angie. This is as good as it gets and what fostering is all about.

From Furever Mom:

The girls are both fine. We did the MS Walk this past weekend. Raz won the "scariest" category in the costume contest. She had the cutest "Mutt Mail" costume, but she was very unimpressed with the cap. Cassie wore a "I love mailmen" t-shirt and she was cute too. It was a lot of fun! We made it on the Point Radio website:
http://pointradio.com/pages/3050019.php?imageGalleryXRefId=745957
Take care and stay in touch!
Angi, Raz, & Cassie

Abilene Flies Off to Her Furever Home

I put this little video together to say goodbye to my foster Abilene, aka Abs. Her forever mom Marilyn Smith drove up from Canyon Lake, TX to pick her up this afternoon.
Abs will have Sandy, another platinum blond cairn fur sister and Tibo a good looking red fur brother, former CP T-Bone.
Happy Furever Little Abs, we miss you already. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9en3t6jPU1o
-- Kim in TX

Cherishing a Cairn

Sandy, one of our longtime and very dedicated volunteers, recently reported that a wonderful little guy recently went to the Rainbow Bridge:

Bingo was adopted exactly six years ago today, 10-08-02. I received word today that he was helped to the Rainbow Bridge due to liver failure, though I'm not sure exactly when that happened (recently). I think Bingo was one of the first "real" cairns that I was able to help rescue from a local Houston TX shelter. I named him; Anke W pulled him since I had to work that day. I handed him off to a wonderful couple that transported him to Barb, a foster home near Austin.

He was a great cairn, and was very much loved by his family. I am sure Bingo is at the Bridge, running and playing to his heart's content. And I know his forever family here in Texas is very sad. Please hold them in your hearts as they grieve for the loss of their beloved little boy.

Sandy, then wrote this beautiful tribute to Bingo and all of our rescued cairns:

You know, even tho I didn't foster Bingo, I feel such a loss. We really want every dog that CP has saved to have a wonderful life, and to live forever.... Unfortunately that just doesn't happen.

I've had fosters that have passed in their adoptive homes and it just hurts so much, knowing their families didn't have a life-long time to spend with their babies. There have been many cairns that I've only picked up and taken to a vet or handed off to a transport, yet I've looked into their eyes and felt a connection, felt a life worth saving, a life worth making better. CP saves so many cairns, and we are all blessed to have known them personally or from afar.

Every cairn we save is like a soul that we know, always one worth making an extra effort to make their life better. My heart goes out to those cairns with such fears that even normal life isn't normal for them, at least not until they can have a safe and secure place to feel comforted, to be able to find room in their mind and heart to start to trust humans.

That first place to learn to trust is with the foster homes. Owner surrenders and many shelter strays are used to humans and can adapt easily to a new home. But the mill dogs need an extra safe and soft place to fall, a home with kindness and understanding and lots of patience.

Why would anyone take in a mill dog and not give it comfort, security, patience, love, and all the time in the world to come out of its fears? Who cannot feel that mill dog's fear and not understand it, knowing the abusive nature of some humans? Who can look into the eyes of a mill dog and not offer it all the comfort it needs?

Mill dogs are not "normal" and cannot act normal, not until they learn to trust humans. But when they do learn to trust you, they will love, they will learn there is no need to cower, they will learn to snuggle, they will learn to act normal.

Every cairn we come into contact with is a soul that needs to be loved, saved, cherished, and protected – they deserve that at the very least, especially after they have been rescued from a life of sheer hell. I have loved all the cairns that I have helped to rescue, whether or not I have fostered them. And they all deserve to be loved, whether or not I personally helped to rescue them.

Everyone who supports Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network, regardless of your contribution, is a person who has helped to rescue all of the cairns we save. You are all responsible for saving their lives and each of these cairns owe their lives to you.

The foster homes owe the cairns they foster every member's love, and owe them all the time, patience, security, love and care we can offer. A foster home's duty is to show that cairn that not all humans are bad, that there is love and patience, that we can provide a better life for them now, today, this very second. Fostering is such a HUGELY rewarding expericence. I'm sure most every foster home will tell you exactly that if asked.
-- Sandy A, Houston TX, fostering Servus aka Sammy

Remedy is Adopted!!

Miss Remmy went to her new home. Her parents are Mary Ann & Bill and she is living in New Paris, PA. I'm so happy for her!

http://s184.photobucket.com/albums/x244/badams007/Remedy%20adoption%20day/?action=view&current=4bdf0532.pbw

Jennifer's Crate Training Advice

Crate Training:
- Grab a handful of treats and stand near the crate with Dog.
- Throw one treat inside the crate, near the back and wait for him to go in and get it.
- Repeat this process 20-30 times.
- When Dog is consistently going into the crate when you throw the treat inside, start saying "kennel up" just as you throw the treat inside.
- Increase the amount of time Dog is spending in the crate.
- Throw the treat inside, say "kennel up" and then close the door.
- Feed him a few treats through the closed door for about 5 seconds.
- Open the crate door and let him out.
- Gradually increase the amount of time Dog is spending in the crate with the door closed. Start with 5 seconds, then 10 seconds, then 15 seconds, and so on. Work up to about 60 seconds.
- Feed treats through the door the entire time he is in the crate - not necessarily continuously, but enough to keep him occupied. Progress at his rate, not yours. If he becomes uncomfortable in the crate and starts whining or fussing, you have waited too long.
- When Dog can be in the crate for 60 seconds with no whining or fussing, stuff up a Kong toy with canned food, moistened dog food, yogurt, cottage cheese, or peanut butter. Say "kennel up" and toss a treat inside.
- Place the Kong inside, close the door, and leave your dog with the kong for 1 minute. Let you dog out and take away the Kong. Try again later and gradually increase the time your dog is in the crate.
- Work up to about 15 minutes.

Attention on Human Terms:

Second, it is important to teach Dog that he can't have your attention all the time. Basically, if he knows how to sit, I would ask him to sit before you say hello to him when he is excited. This lets Dog know that there is an appropriate way to get attention from you. You will also need to ignore any rude behaviors he does to get your attention. Simply turn your back, look at the ceiling, or walk away whenever he jumps up on you, whines to get your attention, or barks at you. Don't say a word to him in these circumstances - we want him to learn that those rude behaviors absolutely do not work to get your attention.

Don't Reinforce the Wrong Behavior:

Third, if you are still using the crate at night, make sure two things happen. First, don't let him out of the crate if he is whining or barking. Instead, wait for 15 seconds of quiet and then let him out. Second, when you do let him out of the crate, don't make a big deal about paying attention to him. Try to ignore him and simply let him outside to use the restroom. Wait until he has calmed down and then pay attention to him.

On another note, I have found that some dogs are much more comfortable in an open crate - a wire crate instead of a hard crate.

--
Jennifer Schneider, CPDT
Pick of the Litter Dog Training
Seattle/Tacoma Area, Washington
http://www.pickofthelitterdogtraining.com

Book Review: When Pigs Fly!: Training Success with Impossible Dogs, by Jane Killion

Sounds like a good book - have to smile how many times terriers are mentioned...
Susan in Vermont

This is a GREAT book! I bought when having ‘focus’ issues in agility class with Charlie, my terrier mix. I liked it so much that I sent it along with my first foster Sir Scruffy Worthington to his new forever family (they didn’t have much dog experience and this book was also very thorough on basic training tips). I should get myself a new copy – thanks for reminding me!

Pam

I just bought this book 3 weeks ago - it is so entertaining and gives one of the best perspectives of the terrier mind I have ever read!! I love the author's sense of humor too. She states facts about terriers that are so obvious and true that I just laugh! My favorite is about the "independent thinking breeds" - she gets it right! I HIGHLY recommend it!!

Carolynne in Ft. Wayne IN

http://www.amazon.com/When-Pigs-Fly-Training-Impossible/dp/1929242441 or http://tinyurl.com/3uo62o

Walter Finally Discovered His Bed!

Walter (fka Kahuna) has been sleeping under the bed since February when we adopted him. That has been his preferred place since we "released" him from mandatory crating at night. He's fine under the bed - doesn't growl or bite if you reach underneath. He just likes sleeping under, in-between & behind things.

Well!! Imagine our surprise when we discovered Walter in his bed the other evening before retiring for the night. He sure looks comfy!! Now I've got to go shopping for a bigger bed because this one is a bit too small when he sprawls out like this!

(That's why Daddy had to put a pillow on the floor for his head). We love this guy!!!
Thanks Col. Potter!
Angel R
Burke, VA
Chewy
Walter (CP kid)

Ms. Lilac's Gotcha Day

Hi Folks, A day for CP to celebrate - Ms Lilac's Gotcha Day!! Four years ago CP saved this little girl from a puppy mill in Missouri - and this Mom will be forever grateful. She came to me to foster and the rest if history - Foster flunkie in the making!!!

Ms. Lilac is going through a bit of a rough time right now and could use some good thoughts from all of you. Last week a mass was discovered on her paw - and two of her toes/digits had to be amputated. She is resting comfortably and we are praying this will all turn out to be benign. Once she is up and about we will celebrate her GOTCHA DAY in style.

So thank you CP for saving this sweet sweet soul and thank you for allowing me to adopt her - She brings great joy EVERY DAY to my life. Here she is with her pretty green bandage - which she is not happy about because she alone likes ALL THAT IS PURPLE!!

Sue M

Durango Finds His Home

New Dad Fred and fursister Emily welcome Durango to his furever home.

Just a quick note to let everyone know that Durango is doing GREAT. Emily and him are getting along just fine, no conflicts of any sort. As a matter of fact, I think they just might like each other! I couldn't be happier, and Durango far exceeds my expectations. What a wonderful addition to the family.

Update on Persephone who is now Penny

Hello everyone! I'm Emily and I adopted Persephone (now Penny) in February. Penny is doing great! She has come so far and we're amazed everyday at how she's turning into a "real" dog, more and more. She used to cower with every stranger she met and now she goes up and greets people. We completed obedience training in August and she passed the canine good citizenship test. She probably passed with a D+ but she still passed! She's very attached to her Mommy so she wasn't too happy when she had to be left with a friendly stranger. She would circle and whimper,waiting for me to come back!

She's very lucky to have a loving grandma who watches her everyday when we go to work. They take naps together and she helps out in the garden. She's very spoiled by both her parents and grandparents!

She has some separation anxiety but we're working on that. She still has an occasional accident in the house but if we stick to her schedule, it's few and far between. She recently got over a bout of giardosis which she probably got from eating other dog'spoop. She doesn't eat her own, just the ones in the neighborhood when we go fora walk. We try to keep an eye on her but sometimes she's so darn fast!

Penny is such a blessing and we couldn't imagine life without her now. Bringing her into our family has been such a rewardingexperience. Thank you to everyone who helps save such special dogs!
Emily Bel Air, MD

Expiration of Dog Medications

Here is an article from the Irreverent Veterinarian posted on PetPlace.com that I thought readers might find helpful. I know I did.

How long do dog medications really last? Our customer service department gets a lot of emails from dog lovers about every type of question you can imagine about dogs. Recently, they forwarded some emails they thought were suited to me, the Irreverent Veterinarian. They knew that I would speak the truth regardless of pet owners or other veterinarians liked it or not. The topic that I'll address today is...How Long Do Expired Medications Really Last?

All medications have an expiration date on their label. A common question that clients ask is...can they use expired medications for their dogs? Are they still good? There are several factors that can affects the "shelf life" including exposure to light, lack of appropriate refrigeration, and eventually...the chemical instability of the product that can occur with time.

This last is the part that can be hard to determine with many products. It can be nearly impossible to tell when the chemical stability of a product is altered. With some liquid medications – it can be obvious by a color change or change in consistency.

Most veterinarians, physicians and pharmacists well tell you to honor the expiration date on the package. That is the safest way to ensure that the medication is stable. To be honest, many worry that there are liability issues involved if they tell you a medication is okay to use and it is not. This is understandable.

I would not want to tell you that a medication is still good and it doesn't work to later find out that it didn't work putting your pet at risk. Here is some information about the expirations of some medications types:

Pills and Capsules
The expiration of a medication varies based on several factors including the type of medication and the manufacturer. Most oral pills or capsules expire in 1 to 2 years from date of manufacturing. Are they good longer than this? The honest answer is...probably most oral pill or capsule medications are good for longer than their expiration dates. How long? I don't know. For some medications, I would feel comfortable using on my own pets if they were expired by 1 to 2 years. Longer than 2 years, then I'd replace.

If my pet was REALLY ill – then I would NOT use any expired medication. If my pet was itching and it was 3 am and all I had was some expired Benadryl – I'd probably try it. This is what I would do and does not mean that it is right or wrong.

Liquid Oral Medications
Most liquid medications that are not reconstituted also have a shelf life of 1 to 2 years but once reconstituted (mixed with water – such as powered amoxicillin is mixed with water) – most expire in about 7 to 14 days depending on the specific product. Most will have a longer shelf life if they are refrigerated. However, there are a few liquid medications that are less stable if refrigerated and they should clearly say so on the package. The shelf life once reconstituted is real. If your vet mixes the liquid and says it expires in 7 or 14 days – then I'd honor that. However, if there is no color or odor change and it is a few days beyond that date – it is probably okay. But this is not a medication that will last long. Medication still in powder form is probably still good for 1 to 2 years beyond the expiration on the label.

Injectable Medications
Injectable medications are generally considered less stable and often have shorter shelf lives than oral pill or capsule medication. Some unopened medications can chemically be stable for at least 1 year beyond the expiration.

Once opened, it is best to honor the labeled expiration date. Before you use any liquid medication – make sure that the color is the same and there are no abnormalities. If it was previously clear and it is now cloudy – even if it has NOT expired – I'd question the stability of this medication.

Follow the recommendations on the bottle for best results regarding the shelf life.There are liquid medications (such as insulin) that are made in smaller vials – so if you are using small quantities in a month – consider asking the pharmacist if it is available in smaller portions (which are generally less expensive) to minimize waste. Many insulin medications expire 30 days form the date you open them. This is the safest way to use the expiration dates on the package. The consequences to using insulin that is bad can be dangerous.

My Final Thoughts
Should you use expired medications? If your pet is critically ill – I'd say no – don't use ANY expired medications. Get new medication. It is not worth the risk of a reaction or problem from using expired medications.

What are your thoughts? Email me!DisclaimerThe Irreverent Veterinarian is a columnist that regularly contributes to PetPlace.com. The goal is to add a balanced and alternative view of some controversial pet issues. As happens with all of us, veterinarians can't always say what they really think without offending some clients. This commentary allows vets to say what they think and give you, the pet owner, the opportunity to consider another view.

All opinions are those of the Irreverent Veterinarian and not the views of PetPlace.com and are not endorsed by PetPlace.com.

Legal Disclaimer
If your pet is showing any signs of distress or you suspect your pet is seriously ill, CONTACT YOUR VETERINARIAN immediately.All of the information presented on this website was developed by Intelligent Content Corporation staff members and is the sole responsibility of Intelligent Content Corporation.See the legal terms on the website for additional legal terms.

Naughty is now Chrissy in her Furever Home

Foster Mom Amy writes:
And she has ridden off into the sunset. Well, not quite the sunset, perhaps the rain cloud in the NE today! Meeting her forever parents was a treasure. When they came up on the deck, I happened to be holding Naughty in my arms, and I said to Barbara “do you want to hold your new baby?” I sat her down and put Naughty on her lap, where she stayed for 1 hour! Naughty is just the love bug that this lovely couple needs.

Photos: http://www.kodakgallery.com/Slideshow.jsp?mode=fromshare&Uc=aa44u37.5r40a7jv&Uy=3drvoe&Ux=0&UV=124597737103_117253014307

Nod Gets Ready for His Furever Home

Foster Mom says: Nod will be moving to Round Rock, Texas. His new furever mom Maureen F is owned by two of our CP kids, Chili and Egan. She is so excited that Nod will complete her family.

Nod will be leaving on the 11th of October. And he has a little something to say!

Fank u ebereebodee fer pwaying fer me wile i waz gedding rid ob da hart worms. An fank u Kernal Podder fer hepping me tu find a foreber home ob mi berree own! I reellee lobs mi fosser mom, but hurz gots tu manee kids at hur house an day ar a pane in da butt sum times! Iz going tu miss hur, but Iz ecksited bout mi nu bruvers an mi nu mom.
So fank u again fer eberee fing u all did fer me!
Lobs,Noddy

Sunnie Day 2008

Here is a very happy ever after story for Sunnie "Hannah" who has been a Georgia peach for 2 years.

We can't believe we have been lucky enough to have this girl in our hearts and our lives for two years now. Thanks CP -- without you it would not have been possible
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpXdmiSpKeg

Barkley's Home with Mattie

Barkley and his fur sister, Mattie, (age 11 yrs.) are getting along wonderfully. He has a great appetite, plays well, does well on his walks, and seems very happy guarding at the window the pesky squirrels who come to visit.