Hero of the Week: Operation Delta Dog - Saves Shelter Dogs and Trains them for Veterans with PTSD

There's an organization called Operation Delta Dog who helps shelter dogs AND Veterans! Their mission: “We rescue homeless dogs and train them to be service dogs for veterans living with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and/or Military Sexual Trauma (MST)." How great is this?! Helping animals in need to help humans in need. To find how you can donate, get involved, or just find more info go to Operation Delta Dog’s website. Today's blog shares some information about the organization.

Operation Delta Dog  - https://operationdeltadog.org/

Two big problems, one great solution.

Our Mission Operation Delta Dog is 501(c)3 Non-Profit organization dedicated to reducing veteran suicide rates by rescuing homeless dogs and training them to be psychiatric service dogs for veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and military sexual trauma (MST). By bringing together veterans and rescue dogs, we aim to provide healing, support, and a new lease on life for both.

Our Story Founded in 2010, Operation Delta Dog was born in attempt to alleviate the epidemic of Veteran suicides and overflowing animal shelters at the same time. We recognized the incredible bond between veterans and service dogs, and saw an opportunity to not only support veterans but also save dogs from high-kill shelters all over the country. Since then, we’ve trained countless dogs and helped numerous veterans regain their independence, peace, and quality of life.

What We Do We rescue dogs from shelters and train them to become highly skilled service dogs that assist veterans in their daily lives. Each dog is carefully matched with a veteran, and the training process is customized to meet the unique needs of both. Our program is provided at no cost to Veterans because we believe that they have given enough.

Our Impact Our work has directly impacted the lives of veterans dealing with symptoms of PTSD, TBI, and MST, helping them overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and isolation. Veterans who graduate from our program report improvements in their quality of life, including better sleep, increased social engagement, and an overall reduction in PTSD, TBI, and MST symptoms.

Why Service Dogs? Service dogs provide more than just companionship. They are trained to perform specific tasks that help mitigate the symptoms of PTSD, TBI, and MST. From interrupting nightmares to providing a calming presence in stressful situations, these dogs offer life-changing support to their veterans.

How You Can Help There are many ways to get involved with Operation Delta Dog. Whether you donate, volunteer, or attend one of our fundraising events, your support directly impacts the lives of veterans and dogs in need. Explore our Get Involved page to find out how you can make a difference today!

WEBSITE: https://operationdeltadog.org/

Pet Parents! Amazing New song: "Who Rescued Who" by Ryan Larkins

There's finally a song about adopting a rescue dog, and changing your life for the better.  As a dog dad, dog rescue volunteer for 15 years, and someone who does fundraisers for animal rescues, this is truly the best song I've heard in many, many years. It really touched me deeply (and made me tear up). I happened to hear it on the "Bigfoot country" music station (I listen to it on the App- its from Bowling Green, KY where I recently visited). - "Who Rescued Who" by Ryan Larkins. 

Ryan Larkins - "Who Rescued Who" (Official Music Video)

WATCH: https://youtu.be/EMy8HuietYI?si=Kk-5G6m8r7Ofb4lP

ABOUT THE ARTIST AND SONG- from Redstreet records 

June 6, 2025 - Nashville, TN - #1-charted songwriter and Red Street Records recording artist Ryan Larkins released his latest soul-stirrer, "Who Rescued Who" (LISTEN HERE), available everywhere. Today's release debuts in partnership with K9s For Warriors, a national nonprofit committed to ending Veteran suicide andsaving lives at both ends of the leash by providing highly-trained service dogs to military Veterans suffering from PTSD and other invisible wounds. Today's release of "Who Rescued Who" marks the beginning of PTSD Awareness month and drops on a pivotal day in American history, D-Day, carrying a tremendously impactful and important message in its heart-wrenching lyrics. The chorus sings,

"We were gonna be more than friends, we were both survivors / Yours was an abusive home and mine was hostile fire / God knows how we found each other, but you needed me and I needed you / So tell me, who rescued who? / Who rescued who?"

“My rescued Service Dog, Doc and I are honored to be featured in the 'Who Rescued Who' music video alongside fellow Veterans and their life-changing Service Dogs,” said Army Veteran and K9s For Warriors graduate Dave Crenshaw. “K9s For Warriors gives Veterans and dogs a second chance and new purpose, and I am forever grateful for the relationship I have with my Service Dog.”

Written by James Slater, who also produced the song, and Jesse M Bowling, "Who Rescued Who" pays tribute to and raises awareness of the healing power that rescue dogs bring to those suffering from invisible wounds. Every single day, roughly 20 Veterans die by suicide and over 1,000 dogs are euthanized, and K9s For Warriors is committed to changing that.

Larkins shares, "I am so grateful to partner with K9’s for Warriors for the release of, “Who Rescued Who”. I’ve seen firsthand the impact that these dogs have made on soldiers' lives. I hope this song shines a light on this organization’s influence within our Veteran community."

“The song 'Who Rescued Who' embodies the K9s For Warriors mission of saving lives at both ends of the leash,” said Lindsay Grayson, Chief Revenue Officer at K9s For Warriors. “We are immensely grateful to Ryan Larkins and Red Street Records as well as the song's writers, James Slater and Jesse M. Bowling for raising awareness about Veteran mental health and the healing power rescue dogs hold.”

TO STREAM "WHO RESCUED WHO," CLICK HERE. 

TO WATCH THE OFFICIAL VIDEO FOR "WHO RESCUED WHO," CLICK HERE.

To learn more about Ryan Larkins, visit ryanlarkins.com.

To learn more about K9s For Warriors, visit k9sforwarriors.org.

FLASHBACK Nov 22, 2015: An Emotional Dog Rescue Day: Transporting Oscar

We've been working with dog rescues for over 15 years, and this story is one that resonates with me. 9 years ago, this 10-year-old Dachshund was purposely abandoned into a rescue. I was the one who had to meet the Dad, who did not want to give this boy up. But his wife demanded this little Dachshund be dumped because their human child developed an "allergy" to the dog. As I said in 2015, give the girl some Benadryl and deal with it. DOGS are children, too.  I was enraged at the mother of the family for her demands especially watching the father fall apart emotionally handing me the dog for the rescue. At least the dog went to a good home. Bottom line: If you or your kid develop an allergy, there's medication for that. TAKE IT. Don't be cruel to animals. This was 9 years ago, so I'm sure heartbroken little Oscar has since passed. But here's his story from 2015: 

Sunday, November 22, 2015

An Emotional Dog Rescue Day: Transporting Oscar

Oscar, scared in the front seat of our truck

We've been doing dog rescue transports for years and it's only once in a while that we are the emotional first stop when a former pet parent abandons their dog. Saturday, November 21 was one of those days involving a 9 year old mini-Dachshund named Oscar who weighs only 8 pounds.

    I (Rob) did the transport while Tom ran errands so we could get everything accomplished. II met Oscar's dad in the parking lot of a hotel about 40 minutes between where he lived and where we are located. I was the first leg of a transport that would take Oscar to his new home in Rhode Island.
   Oscar's mother and father adopted him as a puppy when he was less than a year old. They raised him. He became part of their family. Then, the parents had a human child. This is a story we hear way too much in rescue.

RIDICULOUS EXCUSES FOR ABANDONMENT COMMONLY INCLUDE:  "I had a baby and the baby has allergies to the dog, OR  I'm afraid the dog will hurt the baby (that's why you should TRAIN your dog and socialize them- but usually they "adopt" infants as their own and protect them), OR the dog is annoyed when the baby punches the dog or pulls the dog's tail (what dog wouldn't be?)"

OSCAR'S FEAR   - This time, the dad, who was obviously bonded with Oscar, was an emotional wreck.  When I met him in the parking lot of the arranged transport place, the dad got out of the car with Oscar, who knew something bad was happening. Dogs know. They sense people's emotions and watch people's actions.  As the dad gave me Oscar to hold, Oscar snapped at me - he was scared He didn't know what was happening to him.  

WHAT DO DOGS THINK WHEN BEING ABANDONED?  Dogs wonder "who is this new person?"  / "Why is this new person taking me away from my dad of 9 years?"  /"What's going to happen to me?" /  "This new person doesn't know anything about how I like to play, sleep, eat..."  /"I'm afraid!" 

SEEING THE BOND WITH HIS DAD - Knowing Oscar was afraid, I let  him sniff me until he settled. Then I held the leash as his dad walked from his car to my truck, putting in Oscar's 2 beds, blankets, container of food, and bag with medical history, etc.  Each time Oscar's dad took a step, Oscar stepped with him. I could tell they were bonded.

WHY WAS HE BEING ABANDONED AFTER 9 YEARS? - The dad said that although he had some allergies to Oscar's short, red, fur, his little girl has allergies, too. I held my tongue, because I have to focus on the dog. ** I wanted to tell the little girl to "deal with it and take benadryl" for 5-6 more years so Oscar could live the rest of his short life out with his only family. But I didn't.

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT DOGS, ALLERGIES AND KIDS - It's a fact that if you have a dog in your house and a child is born, the kid may get allergic reactions. HOWEVER, if they're continually exposed to the allergens, they eventually develop antibodies and resistance to the allergens (That's what allergy shots are- they inject the thing you're allergic to, into your bloodstream so you build up immunity to it).

THE EMOTIONAL ENDING - When I saw the dad hug and kiss Oscar goodbye, If I wasn't so emotional I would've been somewhat angry -because it was apparent to me that it really wasn't the dad's decision to let Oscar go. The dad cried and couldn't contain himself. Of course, neither could I. I cried, too. The dad could barely say anything other than "I'm sorry." He got in his car and continued to cry, as I did when I got in my truck. Oscar just stared up at me. This was heartbreaking.

Rob, Oscar and Trudy

THE RIDE TO TRANSPORTER #2 - I drove Oscar to Trudy, who was the second driver in the chain of drivers between Maryland and Rhode Island, where Oscar will live out his senior years with an older couple who previously had a Dachshund named Oscar who passed recently. I played music and talked with Oscar as I drove to meet Trudy. I kept him on the front passenger seat, continually rubbing the fur on his head and back of his neck, calming him (although he was still shaking in fear all the way to the next stop).

TRUDY TRANSPORT - I met Trudy at a predesignated spot and Oscar got more scared all over again. He snapped at first, but then warmed up. He had no idea what was happening to him. Again, it was heartbreaking to see this little guy so frightened. We quickly posed for a picture together, contacted the rescue coordinator that we were 15 minutes early, and I loaded Trudy's car with Oscar's stuff. Again, I got choked up as I watched her drive off. That poor little dog just lost his family today.

THE RESCUE- It was only thanks to Donna at Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue, that a home was immediately found for Oscar. Thanks to Katie in Virginia who set up the transport and managed to get all of the drivers who volunteered. Thanks to 8 drivers in different states from Maryland to Rhode Island who took time out of their Saturday to bring an innocent, abandoned, scared dog to a new home.

Dog rescue really takes a village, and it takes an emotional toll. However, we do it for the dogs.
People need to know that adopting a dog is the same as adopting a child - it's a LIFETIME commitment.  For more information about Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue, and for all of the dogs who are looking for a life-time home, visit: www.c2cdr.org. If you can't adopt or foster a dog, please consider making a donation that goes to the veterinary care of all the dogs we save.- Rob

POST TRANSPORT UPDATE: Rescue coordinator, Donna Gerhauser said: First, I want to thank Katie Wehner for pulling together this transport and all of the wonderful people who helped get Oscar to his new home. He is with his new dad who is over the moon in love with Oscar and overwhelmed with gratitude. I know it was sad and confusing for Oscar to leave his family but I really believe that this match was meant to be. Rob, I think that this Oscar was sent by his predecessor to mend his daddy's broken and lonely heart.

Fortunately this story had a happy ending.  

Dog Rescue Transport Day! We Drove Sophie the French Bulldog Home

It's been quite a while since we were called into service to help transport a rescue dog, but this past Sunday that's exactly what we did for a little French Bulldog named Sophie. Here's the story and the pictures:

For over a decade, we've been volunteering with dog rescues to do transports, home visits, and shelter pickups if needed. Usually, it has been for Dachshunds and Weimaraners (because those are the kids we have/had). 

(Photo: Sophie in Katie's front seat)

One of the transport chains covers all small dogs and it's called "Weenie Express" (named for Dachshunds or "weiner dogs."). Transports for the express are coordinated by a Katie, who lives in Virginia. She uses a website to send out an invitation to all members who live along the U.S. East coast from Florida to New England. So, last week we received one and responded. Transports are always on weekends because we all work during the week. 

(Photo: Tom wheeling Sophie, in her crate, to our pickup truck for a drive to Baltimore)

There were 2 French Bulldogs that were taken out of a kill shelter from Jacksonville, Florida and were to be transported to Baltimore through a series of 11 different drivers. There were two rescues receiving the dogs. One was in Virginia, the second in Baltimore, so Tom and I only had to transport one of the dogs on our leg. 

Our leg was about 60 miles (each way or 120 miles) from Alexandria, Virginia to Baltimore, Maryland. That means driving around the Washington, D.C. beltway which is always a challenge, even on weekends. Plus, that day it rained and there seemed to be quite a few drivers who decided 40 mph in a 60 mph highway was the right thing to do (it wasn't).

(Photo: Rob in the driver's seat with Tyler and Dash in the back seat)

At 11:30 a.m. on the rainy Sunday, we met Katie, who drove from Fredericksburg to Alexandria, Virginia. We meet at hotel parking lots, or park and ride areas because they're low traffic areas on weekends and we can walk the dogs, give them water and treats between car swaps. 

Sophie is 29 pounds, 7 years old, and a cream colored French Bulldog. She came with her paperwork, and a bag full of things. Because Katie said Sophie is "an escape artist" Katie put Sophie in a small cage on wheels and Tom wheeled her over to our pickup truck. The cage fit perfectly in the back of the extended cab, and Dash was back there to keep her company. Tyler decided that he preferred sitting in Tom's lap for the drive.

The drive in the rain to Baltimore took an hour and we handed Sophie off to Christal who was going to foster her for the rescue. The total time we were on the road with our co-pilots Tyler and Dash to do the transport was 3 1/2 hours. 

(Photo: Christal and Sophie. Christal met us in Baltimore and is fostering Sophie).

The rescue is K9 Rescue of the Eastern Shore (called K9-ES). If anyone is interested in adopting Sophie they can contact the rescue at www.k9rescuees.org 

Hero of the Week: 14-Year old Meena Kumar Helps Many Senior Dogs

Meena Kumar, 14, helps abandoned senior dogs get a second chance.

Today's blog spotlights a young girl that I consider a hero. This teenager from India, who moved to the U.S. with her adopted parents has made a quest out of helping senior dogs find a new home. She's too young to volunteer at a shelter, so she created her own business to help. Read her story below. I would love to meet her.

Here's the story from CNN:

An adopted 14-year-old girl is helping senior dogs find a forever home just like she did
By Adrianne Morales, CNN
Updated 10:10 AM ET, Sun August 2, 2020

(CNN)A 14-year-old girl has raised $14,000 for senior dogs who have been left behind with the goal of helping them find a forever home like she did when she was adopted.

Meena Kumar at nine months old was found abandoned in a basket on a college campus in Pune, India. After spending a year in an orphanage, she was adopted by a couple in Mumbai and brought to San Jose, California.

In Mumbai, Meena would watch over a litter of puppies at her home. When she came to the United States, almost every weekend included a trip to the Humane Society or to Muttville Senior Dog Rescue.

Muttville is a cage-free dog rescue that gives senior dogs a "second chance at life," according to their website. The organization rescues about 1,000 dogs per year and runs mostly with the help of volunteers.

Meena first heard of the rescue from a neighbor whose dog had been adopted from Muttville. The neighbor shared stories of how senior dogs are often left behind in shelters. With tender love and care, those dogs can make great companions.

"More people should adopt senior dogs," says Meena. "They give you the same unconditional love as any other dog."

Meena Kumar hopes more people will adopt older dogs

Meena understood what it felt like to be left behind, and wanted to help the senior dogs find the loving homes they deserve, just like she did. The problem was, Meena had to be 17-years-old to volunteer at Muttville, and she was only 12.

She wanted to find a way to support Muttville and came up with an idea. She advertised on Nextdoor offering pet sitting and Pet Fairy Services was born. Meena began pet sitting in her own home for her neighbors and school friends with the goal of supporting Muttville. "You are never too young to start a business," says Meena.

With rates of $35 per day and several years of hard work, Meena has managed to raise $7,000 for Muttville. That number doubled to $14,000, thanks to a matching donation program with Intel, where her father works. The Intel Volunteer Matching Grant Program encourages employees to donate time, money or labor to nonprofits that give back to their communities, according to Intel's website.
Meena plans to continue working with Muttville and hopes that more people will adopt older mutts from shelters during this pandemic.
"We need their love more than ever," she says.

We Did a Dog Rescue Transport! Meet Hayley!

Earlier this week, we got to free and transport a sweet little 6 pound dog named Hayley from the local county shelter. Our friend Shelley works for the Dachshund Rescue of North America  (DRNA) and asked if we could help. Here's the story.

Although not a Dachshund, the DRNA took little Hayley (who is the size of a Dachshund, but more of a terrier/Yorkie mix) into the rescue. 

Tom at the rescue with Hayley after her freedom! 

Shelley meets Hayley! 

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS  Shelters call rescues to see if they are interested in taking a dog into foster care. If the rescue says yes, a rescue representative has to go to the shelter and sign out the dog and they go into foster care.

OUR TRANSPORT - Tom and I drove to the county shelter on Wednesday night.  We live about 30-40 minutes from the shelter (with traffic), and arrived there by 7:15 p.m. After identifying ourselves as volunteers with DRNA, we were taken to room where Hayley was in a cage. 

HAYLEY'S SITUATION - At just 6 pounds it was immediately obvious that little dog went through pain and trauma. There was a gash (treated at the shelter) under her eye, and she had to have a tooth removed that was abscessed (you know how painful that is). We're unsure how or where she was found, but she was brought to the shelter. Of course, her fur was matted and she looked scruffy. She also has a deep cough that we recognized as Kennel Cough. So she's on 3 medications as she goes into foster care. 

When we walked over to her cage she started barking and dancing. It was adorable. She knew she was being saved!

Hayley excited to go home

MEETING SHELLEY  - Shelley lives in Baltimore and we met just south of there in a Park and Ride lot. It took each of us about 30-40 minutes to get there. Shelley has worked for DRNA for many years and has saved the lives of countless dogs. She's amazing. In fact, earlier that day, after work, she took in another dog for the rescue. She's fostering both of them in the short term. 

VOLUNTEERS - Dog and cat rescues are always looking for volunteers to transport or be foster homes. Just contact your local breed rescue to learn how to do it. 

Hayley finally going to foster care

TO DONATE TO THE RESCUE: Rescues pay ALL medical costs for dogs and cats they rescue, and it get expensive, so please donate to animal rescues!  Go to www.drna.org for the DRNA rescue where Hayley is now located. 

A Successful Dachshund Adoption! /Why Contact a Rescue Rep when giving up a dog

Hercules happy in his new home

We are happy to share this incredible dog adoption story with you and there are so many people that came together that made it happen.
IF YOU KNOW ANYONE GIVING UP A DOG-
   If you know of anyone who has a dog and has to give the dog up (hopefully for the dog's best interest and not because the dog is old or an "inconvenience" - because those are not valid reasons), have people contact a rescue for the breed. That's what happened recently. We work with Dachshund and Weimaraner rescues, since our kids are those breeds. 
   HOW IT STARTED - It was a chain of people that led to a happy ending from a tragic place. A dog mom, we'll call her "Katie" let her neighbor know that she had to get her Dachshund named "Hercules" to a safer home because one of her children with disabilities was being rough with the dog. Placing a dog in a home to avoid abuse is a very loving thing, especially since this dog helped Katie discover her son had a serious illness. Katie was heartbroken, but decided it would be best for the dog. (That takes a LOT of courage).
   THE CHAIN OF EVENTS - Katie's neighbor is the sister to our friend Dana (who is in a paranormal group with us). So, Dana immediately contacted us and asked what Katie could do.
    IT ALL WORKS OUT - Our friends Bob and Arlene have been parents to 5 dachshunds, all of whom have passed (one this year). In fact, we met them and befriended them because they adopted Cooper, one of our foster Dachshunds.  The week before we received Dana's note about Hercules, Bob and Arlene told us they were ready to adopt a Dachshund again. TIMING IS EVERYTHING.
  COORDINATING THE RESCUE -  Since we've done a lot of work for the rescues where dogs are turned over, we had all the paperwork that asked the proper questions and provided sign offs for the dog. "Katie" talked with Bob and Arlene extensively before bringing Hercules and we were there to help complete the paperwork. As it turned out, Katie needed to get Hercules re-homed by the end of that week and everyone came through. 
  IT TOOK A VILLAGE TO RESCUE "HERCULES"- Our thanks to "Katie" for being such an amazing dog mom that she put the dog's welfare above her strong love for him, to Dana and her sister, and to Bob and Arlene. 
  TAIL-WAGGING ENDING - We are happy to report that Hercules has settled nicely into his new home and Bob and Arlene said that he is the easiest-going, well-manner, well-trained dog they've ever rescued.  We are thankful to all, and happy to have coordinated this amazing rescue story. 
***********************************************************************************
    REMINDER- if you or someone you know needs to rehome a dog, CONTACT A RESCUE First before taking them to a shelter. Most shelters, especially in the southern U.S. are kill-shelters that give dogs a short time to be adopted. DO NOT leave them on the street (as people horrendously often do in the southern U.S.). Dogs are living, breathing, thinking, emotional beings (that often have more sense and love than people). Treat them with respect and kindness. They are children. 
Check Dachshund Rescue of North America at  www.drna.org/ or Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue at www.c2cdr.org   or for Weimaraners: https://www.dcweimclub.org/rescue

IN THE NEWS: Former shelter dog hailed as a hero for finding 3-year-old girl curled up in ditch

Here's an uplifting story for you. A dog that was discarded into a shelter, left to die was adopted only to save an unrelated toddler from freezing to death. We need to understand that dogs are much more than pets. They have intelligence beyond what we can imagine, they have knowledge, a sense of danger, personalities all their own. They are JUST like people and should be treated with dignity and respect. This is just one example of what a dog can do. Amazing.

Former shelter dog hailed as a hero for finding 3-year-old girl curled up in ditch

 By Jennifer Earl CBS News March 21, 2017, 5:27 PM

Former shelter dog, Peanut, is being hailed a hero for rescuing a 3-year-old girl from a ditch in Michigan.

Delta Animal Shelter/Facebook

     A year ago, a 2-year-old dog with broken legs, ribs and a belly full of carpet was fortunate enough to be saved by an animal shelter and adopted into a loving home.
Now, a year later, the dog’s the one doing the rescuing.
      The medium-sized mixed-breed named Peanut suddenly started barking uncontrollably while inside her home in Escanaba, Michigan, Friday morning. The behavior was certainly unusual for the ordinarily shy pup.
     She ran up and down the stairs, barking and yelping until her owner finally let her outside. Once the door opened, the dog barreled into an open field behind the house -- her confused owner following close behind.
Eventually, the dog stopped in front of a ditch, and looked back at her owner.
At first, the man pulled on the dog’s collar to turn back, but then he took a closer look and saw a naked little girl curled up into a ball, shivering uncontrollably in the freezing temperatures. Quickly, he hopped into the ditch and wrapped her in his shirt, running back home with Peanut on his heels.
     The family called 911 as they covered the girl in blankets to warm her up.
“By the time the ambulance and police arrived, the little girl could only say one thing -- ‘doggie,’” the dog’s owner explained in a letter to the Delta Animal Shelter, where they adopted the dog last April. “Thanks to Peanut, a little girl’s life was saved.”

     Michigan’s Delta County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the family’s story in a news statement on Monday, crediting the canine for alerting his owner to the child’s presence.
     The little girl was not injured and was transported to a nearby hospital for tests, while deputies went door to door in an attempt to find her parents, authorities said. The parents were eventually located at a house nearby.
“Further investigation unveiled unsafe and unsanitary living conditions at the residence,” the sheriff’s office reported. “Child Protective Services was contacted and the found girl along with another young female were eventually removed from the residence.”
    Police said the case has been sent to the Delta County Prosecutor’s Office for review.
    “Through all of this sad news, give thanks the children are safe,” the Delta Animal Shelter wrote in a post on Tuesday. “The good in this heartbreaking story is the heroism of this former abused shelter dog Peanut, and her wonderful adoptive family.”
The family agreed, praising Peanut for her “sixth sense.”   “Without her, not only would she have been gone from this world, but the life of this little girl might have been taken as well,” Peanut’s owner said.

DC Weimaraner Rescue Story: The importance of seniors having senior dogs

Sage and Mrs. L.

 Our friend Karin who manages the DC Area Weimaraner Rescue shared this touching story recently to emphasize the importance of seniors having senior dogs.
 She said:  In 2006 a friend asked if I had a dog that would work as a companion for his mom. Of course, I have the perfect one who was just turned in for some stupid reason!
     So Sage, who was about 8, goes off to live a happy life with Mrs. L. Sage was such a blessing for her. She puttered in the garden and stuck by her side. When Mrs. L started to develop Alzhiemers, Sage became her rock. She would feed Sage and not herself as sometimes happens.
    Sage died in 2012 at the age of 14. Mrs L was devastated. Shortly after that her family had to move her into assisted living. During the next few years until she passed in November 2015, Mrs. L asked for Sage and fondly remembered her.

    This week the rescue received an unexpected donation in Sage's memory from the family.
    It's the little things that mean so much. - Karin
 ******************************************************

What is the DC Area Weimaraner Rescue?

The DC Area Weimaraner Rescue is a non profit 501C3 organization that is dedicated to providing rescue, spay/neuter, and adoption services. We are able to keep this amazing rescue going through donations and foster familes. The foster families temporarily provide homes for the dogs at the rescue until their forever homes are found. 100% of the sales from this site go to the rescue, which provide these dogs with food, medical care, and training.

DONATE HERE- https://www.paypal.comDCWeimRescue

We are a nonprofit and heavily rely on donations and purchases from our online store to help rescue and rehome these amazing dogs. Please checkout our online store and remember, every purchase is 100% tax deductible. 

*All purchases from the shopdcweim.com site are tax deductable.*

Amazing (video) Story: Eric & Peety: How a Rescued Dog Transformed a Life (5 mins)

This is an amazing (video) Story: Eric & Peety: How a Rescued Dog Transformed a Life (5 mins.). Thanks to Kim for sharing it and making us aware of it. If you have a dog or cat, you'll understand. If you know a dog or cat, you'll get this. If your life is in a bad place, think of adopting a dog or cat and make them your life, because they'll make it better. We work for 2 dog rescues, and are dog dads so we know.

Eric and Peety (from Humane Society Silicon Valley)

Eric weighed over 300 pounds, had type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and his doctor told him he would be dead in 5 years unless he changed. They suggested a dog. Eric went to the Humane Society Silicon Valley and said he wanted an obese, middle-aged dog, so they would have something in common. What happened next transformed their lives.
 

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Rm0qYRWQpZI
LINK: https://www.facebook.com/SFGate/videos/10156605140745594/?fref=nf

An Emotional Dog Rescue Day: Transporting Oscar

Oscar, scared in the front seat of our truck

We've been doing dog rescue transports for years and it's only once in a while that we are the emotional first stop when a former pet parent abandons their dog. Saturday, November 21 was one of those days involving a 9 year old mini-Dachshund named Oscar who weighs only 8 pounds.

    I (Rob) did the transport while Tom ran errands so we could get everything accomplished. II met Oscar's dad in the parking lot of a hotel about 40 minutes between where he lived and where we are located. I was the first leg of a transport that would take Oscar to his new home in Rhode Island.
   Oscar's mother and father adopted him as a puppy when he was less than a year old. They raised him. He became part of their family. Then, the parents had a human child. This is a story we hear way too much in rescue.

EXCUSES FOR ABANDONMENT COMMONLY INCLUDE:  "I had a baby and the baby has allergies to the dog, OR  I'm afraid the dog will hurt the baby, OR the dog is annoyed when the baby punches the dog or pulls the dog's tail (what dog wouldn't be?)"

OSCAR'S FEAR   - This time, the dad, who was obviously bonded with Oscar, was an emotional wreck.  When I met him in the parking lot of the arranged transport place, the dad got out of the car with Oscar, who knew something bad was happening. Dogs know. They sense people's emotions and watch people's actions.  As the dad gave me Oscar to hold, Oscar snapped at me - he was scared He didn't know what was happening to him.  

WHAT DO DOGS THINK WHEN BEING ABANDONED?  Dogs wonder "who is this new person?"  / "Why is this new person taking me away from my dad of 9 years?"  /"What's going to happen to me?" /  "This new person doesn't know anything about how I like to play, sleep, eat..."  /"I'm afraid!" 

SEEING THE BOND WITH HIS DAD - Knowing Oscar was afraid, I let  him sniff me until he settled. Then I held the leash as his dad walked from his car to my truck, putting in Oscar's 2 beds, blankets, container of food, and bag with medical history, etc.  Each time Oscar's dad took a step, Oscar stepped with him. I could tell they were bonded.

WHY WAS HE BEING ABANDONED AFTER 9 YEARS? - The dad said that although he had some allergies to Oscar's short, red, fur, his little girl has allergies, too. I held my tongue, because I have to focus on the dog. ** I wanted to tell the little girl to "deal with it and take benadryl" for 5-6 more years so Oscar could live the rest of his short life out with his only family. But I didn't.

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT DOGS, ALLERGIES AND KIDS - It's a fact that if you have a dog in your house and a child is born, the kid may get allergic reactions. HOWEVER, if they're continually exposed to the allergens, they eventually develop antibodies and resistance to the allergens (That's what allergy shots are- they inject the thing you're allergic to, into your bloodstream so you build up immunity to it).

THE EMOTIONAL ENDING - When I saw the dad hug and kiss Oscar goodbye, If I wasn't so emotional I would've been somewhat angry -because it was apparent to me that it really wasn't the dad's decision to let Oscar go. The dad cried and couldn't contain himself. Of course, neither could I. I cried, too. The dad could barely say anything other than "I'm sorry." He got in his car and continued to cry, as I did when I got in my truck. Oscar just stared up at me. This was heartbreaking.

Rob, Oscar and Trudy

THE RIDE TO TRANSPORTER #2 - I drove Oscar to Trudy, who was the second driver in the chain of drivers between Maryland and Rhode Island, where Oscar will live out his senior years with an older couple who previously had a Dachshund named Oscar who passed recently. I played music and talked with Oscar as I drove to meet Trudy. I kept him on the front passenger seat, continually rubbing the fur on his head and back of his neck, calming him (although he was still shaking in fear all the way to the next stop).

TRUDY TRANSPORT - I met Trudy at a predesignated spot and Oscar got more scared all over again. He snapped at first, but then warmed up. He had no idea what was happening to him. Again, it was heartbreaking to see this little guy so frightened. We quickly posed for a picture together, contacted the rescue coordinator that we were 15 minutes early, and I loaded Trudy's car with Oscar's stuff. Again, I got choked up as I watched her drive off. That poor little dog just lost his family today.

THE RESCUE- It was only thanks to Donna at Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue, that a home was immediately found for Oscar. Thanks to Katie in Virginia who set up the transport and managed to get all of the drivers who volunteered. Thanks to 8 drivers in different states from Maryland to Rhode Island who took time out of their Saturday to bring an innocent, abandoned, scared dog to a new home.

Dog rescue really takes a village, and it takes an emotional toll. However, we do it for the dogs.
People need to know that adopting a dog is the same as adopting a child - it's a LIFETIME commitment.  For more information about Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue, and for all of the dogs who are looking for a life-time home, visit: www.c2cdr.org. If you can't adopt or foster a dog, please consider making a donation that goes to the veterinary care of all the dogs we save.- Rob

POST TRANSPORT UPDATE: Rescue coordinator, Donna Gerhauser said: First, I want to thank Katie Wehner for pulling together this transport and all of the wonderful people who helped get Oscar to his new home. He is with his new dad who is over the moon in love with Oscar and overwhelmed with gratitude. I know it was sad and confusing for Oscar to leave his family but I really believe that this match was meant to be. Rob, I think that this Oscar was sent by his predecessor to mend his daddy's broken and lonely heart.

Fortunately this story had a happy ending.  

Post-Adoption Check: 1 year later: Duncan Happy in a Home

1 year later- Duncan happy in a home!

Duncan was a light colored Dachshund who came into Coast-to-Coast Dachshund Rescue in October
of 2014, and caused a lot of drama because he escaped from his foster home. Now, a year later, the rescue has heard from Duncan's adopted family, and his adoptive mom, Jessie said that Duncan's a well-adjusted dog who loves his canine brother.

A YEAR AGO- Duncan ran away from his foster home on Oct. 30. So, Katie had driven to Annapolis, Md. from Richmond, Va. and set traps for Duncan in the wooded area he was last seen around. She posted notices in the neighborhoods on local Craigslist pages and sent notices to rescues and shelters. On November 3, Duncan was found.

The poster from his 2014 foster escape!

Katie then took Duncan with her and she fostered him, knowing that he was skittish with people. She comforted him, trained him and got him ready for adoption.


Here's the story of his escape and capture a year ago: http://rob-tom-dolly-franklin.blogspot.com/2013/11/adventures-of-runaway-foster-dog.html

Our friend "Bear" Elliott Does his 1st Dog Rescue Transport - for Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue

Today, August 2nd, we're at the last part of a dog rescue transport for 2 senior dogs (11 years old) that came from Indiana on a transport through Ohio, West Virginia and finally to Maryland - where Tom and I are bringing them to foster homes.
  But the transport would NEVER have happened if it wasn't for our good friend Scott "Bear" Elliott (who has the "Bear with me" show on you tube). Scott visited us in June and we had great time. So, when I realized there was a transport leg through Ohio (where he lives) , I asked him if he'd consider doing it. He said "Yes" immediately.
  We can't thank him enough for doing this!!
He's a Bear with the Biggest heart. 
Here's his Video blog about his experience. It choked me up at the end! - Rob 

SCOTT SAYS:    I was approached by my two friends, Rob and Tom, to help transport two very cute dogs along their journey to Maryland. Check out my vlog about Milo and Max.
    Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue (CCDR) is a National Non-Profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing needy Dachshunds and Dachshund mixes from coast to coast. CCDR has been very successful in achieving the goal to find loving families and forever homes for the dogs they've taken in.

UP FOR ADOPTION:
   These guys will be available for adoption thru Coast-to-Coast Dachshund Rescue in the next week or two.

WEBSITE:  Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue website:  http://www.c2cdr.org/

SCOTT'S SHOW: Facebook: Bear With Me Radio Show https://www.facebook.com/BearWithMeRadioShow
Instagram: Bear_Elliott
BEAR WITH ME BLOG: : http://www.thebearwithmeshow.blogspot.com/ 

THE VIDEO: https://youtu.be/AVZKqmCP7ro
 

Dog Rescue - Transporting Trooper!

Trooper smirking at the camera during a break from the road

On Saturday, July 12 we helped transport another Dachshund northward to a foster home. Trooper was a dog that was found and picked up by a shelter in Alabama. He was in a "death row" shelter, and was found by DASH rescue, who coordinated a transport north to a foster home through Katie Wehner. Katie lives in central Virginia and she coordinates all the trips up and down the East Coast to get Dachshunds out of kill shelters and into foster homes, once a rescue contacts her with the location.It's a lot of work, but she manages to get drivers to do a 60 mile leg each- and going up the east coast requires quite a number of drivers!

close up!

Trooper is a long, skinny dog!

 TROOPER'S TRIP -   Last Saturday, Rob met Irene in Alexandria where he picked up "Trooper" a brown, dapple Dachshund who couldn't have weighed more than 8 pounds. Rob drove Trooper around the Capital Beltway and up toward Baltimore for a handoff to Trudy- who took him to Delaware for another handoff! Trooper's ultimate destination was a foster home in central New Jersey. 

A short video I made of Trooper

TO ADOPT TROOPER- Go to DASH Rescue's Website: http://www.dashrescue.net/

Trudy loading Trooper in his crate in the back seat

PLEASE BE A FOSTER DOG PARENT -   It's a wonderful feeling to save another sweet dog's life and put them into a home, although a foster home.   PLEASE consider fostering dogs for rescues. - Open your home- the rescues PAY all medical expenses. You just buy food and give shelter, exercise and love.
 

Another Rescue Dog Adopted! Harley Heads Home!

We've been working with dog rescues for about 7 or 7 years, and through an event, on Saturday, May 30th, I (Rob) got to work with a rescue that was trying to place their last couple of dogs, so the rescue manager could retire. On that date I had a table at the MId-Atlantic Doxiefest in Belair, Maryland  to promote my book "Pets and the Afterlife." - It was an outdoor event and fundraiser for Coast-to-Coast Dachshund Rescue. I met a lot of great people and dogs, and dogs looking for forever homes, too.

Author Rob Gutro and Harley- looking for a home

While there, I met Jane, who was volunteering and helping a Fredericksburg, Virginia dog rescue. The rescue is managed by Yolanda McEntire, who is working to get her last few dogs adopted as she is retiring.  

    Jane brought over Harley, a 13 year old, senior black and tan dachshund.  I immediately took to him and really wanted to see him go to a good home. He had been with the rescue for over a year, and Yolanda really wanted to find him the perfect place.So I offered to help.

Harley's close up!

Jane and an adoptable dog

 What I've done with Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue (where Tom and I are members and volunteers) is that I take a short video of the dog, take several photos (and after assessing the dog's behavior and talking with the foster parent) I write a biography. I've learned that many people really, really want to see a video and read a bio about how the dog behaves, his habits, training, health, etc. so I include all of those things. 

   I've now used this format for 5 dogs and all five have been adopted within 2-3 months of making the videos and biographies live. What a wonderful reward to find these dogs homes. 

   Well, on July 4th, we received an email from Yolanda that Harley had indeed found a forever home in West Virginia.  That totally made my July 4th (and the week).

A short video of Harley I made

 

In the News: Dog Stays with Car Crash Victims

ABC 7 News in Los Angeles reported this story about a dog's loyalty in watching over his parents - even after they died in a car crash. - It will bring a tear to your eyes... and at least it has a happy ending for the little dog.
 

Many Eyewitness News viewers have asked us what happened to "Harley", the little dog that survived a deadly car crash on the 118 freeway.
Harley never left the side of the two occupants of the crumpled car until emergency crews arrived. They were both pronounced dead at the scene, leaving Harley without an owner.

CHATSWORTH, LOS ANGELES (KABC) --

Where Rhonda Taffet goes, Harley follows. The Maltese-Terrier mix is adjusting to his new caretaker, his new surroundings and three Chihuahua playmates.
    "He's a sweet dog, loving, kind, and we're just honored to be able to do this for Gwen," Taffet said.
Gwen Bolden-Smith was Harley's owner. She and her friend Diijon Bishop were killed when his car went off the 118 Freeway and landed in a concrete riverbed down below. The car was crushed beyond recognition.
    Somehow, Harley survived uninjured and stayed with his owner's body until emergency crews arrived.

Bolden-Smith was a personal trainer and a life coach. "She was always giving you the best that Gwen had to give you. Always uplifting, telling you how beautiful you are, what you have to bring to life," Taffet said.
    After the accident, Harley spent three days at an animal shelter. Taffet says he appeared to be in mourning, but now that Harley feels right at home, his tail is wagging once again.
    "I'm honored to be able to take Harley and love him, hopefully, as much as she did," Taffet said.
     The California Highway Patrol says Bishop made an unsafe turning maneuver for reasons unknown. The accident remains under investigation.

Original story: http://abc7.la/16cu2HT