December 29, 2010

Update from Saturn!!!!

Just wanted to let you know that it's been seven months since I adopted Saturn, and it's like he's always been a member of this household! His name is now Ash, and he and one of the two cats that were already living here have become fast friends. He loves going to school and playing in the snow, and is exceptionally good with small kids. I would like to take this opportunity to commend the foster home he was in before the adoption was complete. They did a fabulous job in his early and highly impressionable months. I've attached a couple of recent photos. He's grown into quite the big pup!


Thank you for all the hard work by everyone at AARCS, and best wishes for 2011.

December 28, 2010

Donate Before Dec 31, 2010 and make your donation go further.

Did you know, you can help save a life at the same time reduce your taxes! In Alberta, we have the highest tax credit (50%) for donations over $200 threshold. Depending on your taxable income and the amount of your gift, these savings can be considerable and make your after tax donation go further for both you and the organization.
When you donate $200 and under, you can receive a tax credit of 25%. For example, your $100 donation actually cost you only $75 after tax.
It gets better! When you donate over $200, you can receive a tax credit of 50% on the amount over $200. For example, your $500 donation actually cost you only $300!
How about this one! A $1,000 donation costs you only $550 after the tax credit is applied!

December 17, 2010

The Gift of Rescue

Perhaps this year one of the gifts under your tree could be a letter from me, a foster dog in AARCS care that in lieu of a gift you are giving the Gift of Rescue. Or maybe as a family, you could become a lifetime sponsor and set a monthly donation to be withdrawn to help homeless animals just like me.

You see, I was a homeless dog and one day while I was rummaging for food, I was rescued by AARCS volunteers. Today I live temporarily in my foster home until my forever family comes for me. AARCS paid for me to get better and to spay me so I would not have any more unwanted puppies. They feed me and give me a warm place to sleep. My foster family walks me daily and loves me as if I was their own dog. Even though I don?t yethave a family to call my own this Christmas, I know I will be warm, fed and loved!

I know that although they wanted to rescue all of us, I was one of the lucky ones. The volunteers struggle emotionally and the organization continuously struggles financially to grow and help more animals like me. I hope you might help me, help AARCS so I can give something back to thank them for saving me.

Please donate today, in the name of a loved one, a friend, an organization, or to your entire family and I will send you a personal letter for them to open on Christmas day! Attached is a sample letter. Please donate today through PAYPAL or Canada Helps and email deanna@albertaanimalrescuecrew.com for information on how to get your letter from a foster dog for your donation this holiday season.






Thank you and Happy Holidays!



Sook!

AARCS Foster Dog

Download xchristmas-letter2010--sample-.pdf

December 6, 2010

Dear Santa Claus,

My wish list is small,
Please find a Forever Home
for my friends and if you
have time maybe look for
one for me.
Thank you for taking the
time to read my letter.

Mick Jager

December 2, 2010

Update on Kiko AKA R.J.!!!!

I can't pass up not sharing these cute photos of Kiko I took last Saturday. He is growing up so fast. He's got hiccups the other day, I also felt so sorry for him. We're going to his vet this Saturday for his vaccination and some other things he need. He's also a registered puppy now. So far, he has chewed my furry slippers and Carlo's cellphone charger. I bought him a frozen bone today and it worked, he has been busy.

Warm regards,

Pops

November 24, 2010

AWESOME DONATION FROM SHYA!!

Thanks for your all your hard work Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS)!

Last year I was lucky enough to be rescued and adopted in to a nice warm house when it was so cold out but I know some of my other friends have not been as lucky as me. I wanted to do something to help my friends so my Mom and Dad wanted to make a $700.00 donation on my behalf so you can continue to help other dogs like me. Thanks for everything that you do for all us animals ARRCS Crew!

November 20, 2010

38 Dogs In from the Cold This Weekend!

Rescue teams were out in full force this weekend. With freezing temperatures the calls for help poured in. On Saturday three volunteers headed north in a race against time. The vehicles were loaded with kennels, a doghouse and food. They would drive 3+ hours to the first call out where they rescue 13 dogs from one location. There were 8 puppies about 3 weeks old in shabby shelter. Their momma sheltered them with her body from the frigid temperatures. This little family, along with four other dogs were all loaded and off they went to rescue location number two. We had been told there was a stray dog who had puppies and they really needed help. When rescuers arrive they found the little family in a doghouse with no insulation or floor, sadly help for three puppies came too late. With tears in their eyes rescuers picked themselves up - three surviving puppies and momma needed our help. While moving the pups one at a time into the rescue vehicle, the last puppy crawled under an abandoned car. Rescuers worked to get her out, but the car was so low to the ground they could not get underneath to save her. No one would be left behind so plan B would be to pull the car. Tow rope latched, the big 4x4 truck pulled the car and rescuers were able to scoop up the little puppy and reunite her with her momma and siblings.
On Saturday night another call would come in and rescuers would head out again to rescue a newborn family. They had been found under an abandoned trailer. The rescuer was able to crawl underneath the trailer to get momma and nine little babies. In addition, 11 more puppies were brought into care from an accidental pregnancy.
A total of 38 dogs were rescued in four days! All are warm and safe in the care of AARCS foster homes.
We call ourselves the Rescue Crew and everyone involved is a part of that team. This crew consists of those who do the physical rescue, the foster homes that open their homes to provide shelter and love, our adoptive families, our volunteers and our supporters/donors. Please consider joining our Rescue Crew and support our efforts, with time, resources or money. Please check out the tab, ?How You Can Help? for information on donating or other ways you can help us, help them.

November 19, 2010

AARCS 2011 Calendar

Great Stocking Stuffer!! All proceeds go directly to the animals. Help us help the animals. Purchase one today from our website under "How You Can Help" or visit the following locations:

BowDog Canine Specialists - 6909 Farrell Rd. SE
Copperfield Vet - 115, 15566 McIvor Blvd. SE
McKnight 24hr Veterinary Hospital - 34, 5010 - 4 Street NE
Mardaloop Vet - 4016 - 16 Street SW
Harvet Hills Vet - 715, 500 Country Hills Blvd NE
Forest Lawn Vet - 2003 36 Street SELundgren & Young = 106B, 9705 Horton Road SW
Rascals Pet Supply - 3804 Edmonton Trail NE
The Barking Lot - 33 Midlake Blvd SE
SleepRover - 99 Skyline Cr. NE
Integron Auto Centre - Bay 12, 11450 - 29 Street SE
The Pawhaus (on line at www.thepawhaus.com)
Fairplay Stores - 2604 Kensington Road NW
Big Hill Veterinary Services - 3, 124 River Ave, Cochrane (starting Oct. 22)
Acadia Veterinary Clinic - 816 Willow Park Drive SE
Tail Blazers - #7, 1420 - 9th Avenue SE

November 1, 2010

Wild Rose Brewery Charity Pint Program

At Wild Rose, they believe in giving back to the community. As such, they have created the Wild Rose Charity Pint Program where each month we select a different charitable organization to support. For the month of November Wild Rose Brewery will be donating $0.25 for every pint of a featured beer purchased in the Wild Rose Taproom. Please enjoy a pint and support AARCS!

http://www.wildrosebrewery.com/news/charity.html

#2 - 4580 Quesnay Wood Drive SW
Taproom is open seven days a week.
? Monday to Saturday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
? Sunday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

October 13, 2010

Update on Ndume AKA Eddie

Here is a WONDERFUL update on our Eddie!!!

So of course everything is super awesome here with our 2-legged and 4-legged family. I can't believe we've only had him for less than 2 months. Still less time than you had him! Now we can't imagine being without him.

He is more and more a part of the family every day, becoming more comfortable and bringing more personality out all the time, vocalizing and pawing us playfully (where before he was too cautious), even wrestling with us. The barriers have all been busted up between him and the girls; he and our Jack Russell play all the time - she has given up her tough girl act and now just loves him.

We have been out in the bush for several weekends - really out in the bush, sleeping in shelters and tents - and he has been over the top (in a good way). He was crazy racing, jumping, 4x4ing over all the deadfall and riverbanks and terrain, and he even wandered far away from us at many times during the day --- all it took was one set of whistles from me and he came racing back from nowhere, even in the dark. He was going so much the first day that he actually was exhausted the second day! When we got home he conked out for a full day! He is so amazing and is everything we wanted.

Of course, he's not perfect... The biggest thing we have been working on now (besides sit and wait for everything until told, but he's getting that pretty good) is the "dog challenging". Every time he meets another dog he has to "challenge" it. He's absolutely not aggressive, but he has his ruff up, he is stiff and postures over the dog, often mounting or sometimes growling. Depending on what the other dog does (if it wants to fight as well), usually he settles down when he realizes that the other dog is not looking for a fight, and then they start playing. Occasionally he meets a dog that challenges back and there is a lot of noise and scuffle, but it is only seconds and then they are done. That's only happened 2 or 3 times, and not for a while now. Lately Kent and I have been taking him out to lesser used offleash parks together, and when we see a dog, Kent keeps Ndume and I approach the owners and evaluate their dog (to make sure we are setting him up for success). Then we release him and they do their thing, without the fight. It has been going good and he is definitely getting better. I figure it is a stray thing and will eventually go away altogether.

October 7, 2010

Aviva Contest - We Need Your Votes!

We NEED your vote! Your friends vote, your family's vote!!! We really need any votes we can get - so please vote, and pass this along for everyone else to vote! Here is a great way to help AARCS that does not cost you anything except for a little bit of time! All you have to do is follow the links below and vote. Send this to everyone you know, the more votes we receive the better our chances!

This competition has the potential to win a huge amount of funds for Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society that will go a very long way to support the spay/neuter clinics, but we can not win without the votes.

Here is the link to follow for your vote:
http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf5455

and our idea number is:ACF5455

Thank you so much again for all your help!!!

September 22, 2010

What do you when you are too full?

The spay clinic is upon this weekend. We expect to have 40-60 dogs surrendered on a weekend such as this. The surrendered dogs are spread out among the attending rescues, but what do you do when you are too full to take any more? Many of the rescues, much like ourselves do not have a shelter facility and can only bring in animals we have room for into our foster homes. The need has been great, adoptions slow and we are bursting at the seams! Please, if you have ever considered fostering now would be a great time to start. We don?t want to have turn animals away but with no room for more we are running out of options. If you have been considering adopting we also have a great selection of animals, though right now many are ?behinds the scenes?. This was written and sent in, dedicated to our hard working volunteers helping out this weekend.

IN THE FIGHT
?I?m off to the fight
Up early and bright
Trudge through the mud and the sorrow and rain
To save even one from a lifetime of pain
I?m no hero - I tell you - just little old me
Give me Kleenex and chocolate and happy I?ll be
Off to rescue and save ones yet unborn
But you?ll never see my battle scars worn
I love this fight though I cry like a child
Open space and the freedom to run with the wild
Faces of angels look up from their crates
No more litters for you ? it?s not up for debate
Now you can run free and be wild and play
While I sit at my desk and dream of the day
When I?ll spend all my time giving more to the cause
The stronger the fight - The fewer the paws?..?
-L.V.

September 21, 2010

Update on Vivian

Hi there, we thought we would send you a few recent pictures of Mercy (formerly "Vivian"), as well as her DNA results.

We thought that Marsha, Marshall, Nochi, Desmond and Charley's new families might be interested too. I was totally blown away when I learned that a single litter of pups can have as many different doggy dads as pups, which you probably already knew! We think - strictly on the basis of visual observations of their many likenesses - that they may be interested nonetheless, and if so, we're happy to share!!

She's all kinds of things we wouldn't have expected (see below for the results). We were thinking that she might be a Shepherd Chow cross, or something like that, given her fur color and texture, and her other coloring/markings. While our vet says that Canadian Dog DNA places aren't always the most accurate, the closer we look at pictures of these other breeds, the more we see them in her! If you're interested, check out her levels below.

Level
Beagle 3
Great Pyrenees 4
Afghan Hound 4
Rottweiler 4
Siberian Husky 5
Pug 5
Rhodesian Ridgeback 5

September 16, 2010

Special New Comer

We have a very special new comer to the AARCS program. He was hit by a car and left with a badly broken femur. We have named him Owen, and as I write this he is undergoing surgery to repair his broken leg. He is a very sweet, juvenile male, shepherd mix, with big puppy dog eyes. Despite the enormous cost to repair his leg we opted to fix his leg rather than amputate as his prognosis is excellent with a bone plate and screws. Right now estimates are between $2000 and $3000 to complete the work. Amputation would have cost about a third but with such an excellent prognosis we felt it was in his best interest to keep all 4 legs. We are in need of sponsors for Owen to help cover the costs of his surgery and therapy while we get him on the road to recovery before he can go up for adoption. Every little bit helps! To donate towards Owen costs you can mail a check, donate online with PayPal or contact us. Owen and all of us rooting for his fast recovery Thank you!

UPDATE: Sept 14: Owen went through surgery well and his prognosis is excellent! Great News! He is doing well with his foster mom.

September 14, 2010

Update on Gabanna!!!

Wanted to send you some pictures of our new addition. We are very happy that Kobe came into our lives. He is gentle and laid back and very smart. He shakes a paw and is pretty much house trained. There is no food aggression and gets along with all dogs .. Both of our families love him, and he has already grown in size. Thanks again for holding on to him. We will send some more pictures as he grows.

From Robbie and Jordan

September 13, 2010

Update on Franklin

I thought I would give you an update on Franklin. He is doing extremely well, is a wonderful smart, obedient, loving, and loyal companion, and he shows no signs of being anything but extremely healthy.
He sure is growing fast, and is going to be a big boy!

Here is a picture taken of him last night after work, while on our daily walk.
He is a picture of health!

September 9, 2010

Update on Recent Rescues

Rescue one found 2 volunteers heading way north, as they had received a call about a stray mom and puppies. In a flash Anna & Violet were on the road, it was about 1:00 p.m. with a long drive ahead of them. By 3:30 p.m. they were at the site along with Eugena, the lady who had called AARCS. Mom and pups were found, puppies looked pretty good as they were getting some milk from Mom dog. But poor Mommy dog was starving and really in bad shape. We gently picked her up into the car along with 4 puppies. We gave her food but she only ate a little.
At this location a family had moved in with several dogs and rescuers saw 2 puppies about 2-3 months old. With a little luck on our side one of these was surrendered and we gave her the name Willa. Then it was off to Olds to meet Church who is caring for the litter. As the drive started we noticed something very different about this mommy. Most of the dogs go right to sleep but this mommy wanted to look around, and that she did...all the way she looked out the sides, the front, the back, maybe she knew in her heart she'd no longer be a stray and her puppies would grow up to be strong and healthy. Because the animals at this location were in dire need of food, a plan was made to return in a couple of days.
Day one with 6 dogs rescued.
Rescue Two: This trip north would have us loaded with food and crates and a third rescue volunteer, Church. The trip is over 3.5 hours one way, but the need was great. We arrived at the location where the mom and pups had been found. A large container of food was put down for the dogs who were so hungry, this would be 3 dogs approximately 7 months old. We had been asked to take the black one on Tuesday but had no room in the car and said we would return. They had then decided to keep this black dog and we negotiated the one remaining female puppy. It's always best to rescue the females but the black dog will remain in our memories...because of logistics we will probably not get back that far again for a long time, but you never know. We'd then continue to a house known to us to have tons of dogs. Well, to our surprise, this time was better and at this stop we would have surrendered a small dog with her 6 day old puppies. This was a surprise. Where would they go? We knew with winter coming on they needed our help. Here we were also given another female puppy. Next stop would find us given another female puppy about 8 weeks old. By this time it was 12:30 p.m. and the AARCS truck of kennels was full. Off we went then to deliver around the food we had with us. Church stepped up to the plate and took his second mom and pups in 4 days.
Rescue Two: 10 dogs...plus the 6 from rescue one...total 16. Thank you so much to those who came forward to foster.
Rescue Three: The third day of rescuing found the crew heading south where they would return with 6 puppies surrendered by a resident, and in mid September the mother dog will be spayed at the Alberta Spay and Neuter Task Force Clinic, she will never again have unwanted puppies. A very sick puppy was also brought in and remains at McKnight 24 Hour Veterinary Clinic under special care. Please keep this puppy in your thoughts and prayers. For now the puppy is warm and safe for probably the first time in life.

September 3, 2010

Update on Chanel!!!

Our family adopted Chanel on July 24th 2010. I would like to give you an update.

Her name is now Gracie ? as we have a cat named George, my husband and I thought that Gracie (Allen) and George (Burns) went well together. My teenage kids of course had no idea what we were talking about. Gracie has become the absolute light in our family. She is well taken care of by our extended family of a stream of teenagers that come in to our house and take her for walks and play with her. Our little girl is completely house broken (without breaking the house!) and is extremely well behaved. When we took the little miss to the vets, we were told she is probably a cross between a border collie and a corgi! Apparently this is a designer breed in some worlds, in ours she is just another loved one in the family. I would like it if you could pass this information on to the foster mom.



THANK YOU AARCS FOR RESCUING OUR LITTLE GIRL, CAUSE I KNOW SHE WAS LOOKING FOR THE SMITH FAMILY ALL ALONG.

August 31, 2010

Update on Franklin!!!

Thought I would let you know that Franklin is doing really well!
He is growing so fast and is an amazingly sweet, loving, playful but extremely loyal pup.
Franklin went on his first camping trip and we took him on some awesome hikes!
We are so incredibly happy with him!

August 29, 2010

HUGE DOG AND CAT ADOPT-A-THON

Big dogs, small dogs, puppies, cat and kittens all available for adoption.

All the rescue groups are full and we are having to turn animals away. Please help us find loving new homes for our adoptable pets so we can go out and rescue more!

AARCS HAS TEAMED UP WITH OTHER REPUTABLE RESCUE GROUPS TO HOST THIS ADOPTION EVENT SO THERE WILL BE NUMEROUS ANIMALS AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING.

Entry is Free! Free Parking!

Sunday, August 29, 2010
11:00am - 3:00 pm

Marlborough Park Community Centre NE, Calgary,
6021 Madigan Drive NE

PLEASE NOTE: This is not the community centre behind Marlborough Mall, go past the mall and turn left on Madigan Drive (at the Dairy Queen) and it's on the left.
Download adopt-a-thon-poster-pdf.pdf

August 28, 2010

Adoptions are Slow, but Intake is Busy...

AARCS has had a VERY busy summer with many special cases. We currently have a number of dogs in our care that are looking for new forever families, poor Eddie has been in care since April and no one has showed any interest in adopting him. Adoptions have been slow, but intake has been busy! Please if you know anyone looking for a dog, please encourage them to check out our website and adopt, not shop. We also have a number of dogs behind the scenes in desperate need. We have been working hard to get everyone in adoptable condition, but it take time. Here are few behind the scenes on-going cases.

? Two mange babies are still in care behind the scenes and two more available for adoption (5 months later). The two behind the scene are still undergoing treatment. Treatment for these dogs cost over $2000 and it's still climbing.
? We rescued a Cocker Spaniel named Copper that was going to be put-to-sleep at the local humane society who suffers from skin issues and mammary tumours. She is currently undergoing medical assessment and treatment.
? 7 orphaned puppies only 2 days old brought in this weekend from Cardston. Their mom was killed by two large free-roaming dogs.
? We currently have 3 moms with litters
? Bubblegum is still in need of a foster home and being boarded at the local vet clinic
? We rescued a 8 year old dog from a northern shelter that was going to be put-to-sleep because his time was up. He is currently being assess for medical issues with his eyes
? 22 dogs alone were brought in this past weekend, including Solo who is featured in this poster

I would like to say a HUGE thank you to all the foster homes and volunteers that give their time and themselves to helping these animals. Without you we could not do it!

How you can help!

? Donate your time - become a foster parent today!
? Not enough time to volunteer - donate money toward the rising veterinary bills. Tax receipts provided and easy online donations available on our website at www.albertaanimalrescuecrew.com
? Step up to help organize events. We are considering doing an "Emergency Adopt-a-thon" and need some people to help organize it.
? Adopt a dog! and encourage others to adopt, not shop.

The attached poster outlines two special cases we are currently dealing with. Download help-poster---aarcs.doc

August 27, 2010

Update on Eddie!!!

Day 1:
Hello! Here's your first update, since the computer was already on...

There was a few snaps and establishing of the pecking order -- as we figured -- but he and the girls are already used to each other so we are very happy. He is obsessed with the greyhound (lots of males are, for some reason -- maybe the long legs!) and so wants to sniff her all the time. She is not so tolerant of that but they are to the point that she gives a little snarl and he backs off. They'll each get over it in time.

He is also very curious about the Jack, especially as she bounces and bounces. She gave him some snarls at first but he is leaving her alone and so for now she is mostly ignoring him, but I feel like they'll get closer since they are so much alike.

Anyway, he has settled in for the night in the xpen in our room so that he can have some space away from the girls. Kent is home with him/them tomorrow so that he has some time to get used to his new place.

I love that he's already wagging his tail with recognition when he sees me come into the room!

I'll keep the news coming as he progresses.

Day 2:
Long-leash walk this morning and off-leash this evening! He was listening so well -- I had him dragging the leash for a bit and then I started testing his recall, and he was great! He is bonding already to us -- we love him. He is great with the kids, rolling over and letting them rub his belly. He keeps trying to play with the girls. Dudes (the greyhound) even got excited and ran/bounced along beside him this morning (that is most she will ever play, and she doesn't do it with many dogs). Cake (the Jack), well, she is a little slower to warm up. Eddie already loves her and continues to jump around her. This morning he sort of pounced on her and she wasn't happy about it.... oops. Ah, it'll take some time.

And he swam both morning and evening. Well, I wouldn't quite call it "swimming" -- he wades and drinks. He does watch Cake swim around so I'm sure eventually he will start as well.

Day 3:
THEY PLAYED!! THEY PLAYED!! First Eddie and Cake started playing, and
they were just having a blast chasing and wrestling in the yard. Then
the "fun police" (Dudes) came out to break it up -- but really, she
just jumped in!! She NEVER plays with other dogs! So we are soooooo
happy. He is just perfect, we love him and are so glad to have him!

We do feel bad for Niko though. I hope he cheers up soon and just
loves Dash all the more.

To be continued....

CONGRATS EDDIE!!!

August 20, 2010

Update on Niko AKA Con-Knee

Thank you all so much for your help through this process.

We are all settling in nicely. Our sweet girl Niko (yes, we renamed her and she seems to have learned it already, pronounced 'knee-ko') has been making our home her home since she arrived. The first night was long.. she didn't pee or poop, no eating until 9pm, lots of confusion as she tried to get her bearings. Today she was with 'dad' all day and they had fun. She was pretty 'down' today, wondering if 'mum' was going to come back and still learning that she wasn't going 'home' to Rita's. Once I got home, I found a happy bouncing puppy waiting to greet me. Kody said it was the perkiest she'd been all day. We went for a walk and she finally pee'd! Hallelujah! haha (No poop yet.) And when we got home she finally decided it would be alright to play with us. We were tossing things and rolling around. Playing some tug-o-war and pouncing on stuffed animals. All the while she has remained diligently fascinated with our little Chinchilla's! haha
She just sits and stares at them. The more comfortable she's become, the more aggressive and whiny she gets, as they just won't come out of that darn cage to play with her! They also seem quite fascinated with her, and that's never happened before. They are becoming fast friends.

If you have any suggestions for obedience training, we'd be happy to hear it. We're doing well on our own, but definitely want the help of some professionals to be sure we're on the right track..

Thanks again for all that you do!
And thanks for rescuing our little girl. We'll be forever grateful!

hugs
kristen & kody & niko

August 16, 2010

AARCS 2011 Calendar - Sponsors needed, business & personal

Have you lost a beloved pet recently or remembering one from the past. Donate $25 or more and we will add your pet's name to the Rainbow Bridge page of the calendar. In their memory you will be helping rescued dogs at a second chance. PERSONAL donations of $25 or more towards the printing and design costs will be issued a tax receipt .
Only 3 spots left for businesses to sponsor a page or half page in AARCS 2011 Calendar!
If you're interested please email sponsor@albertaanimalrescuecrew.com for more information. Please see the attached for more information.
Download sponsorship-2011.jpg

August 14, 2010

2010 Dog House Build and Delivery

The following is lengthy but there is not much we do in the Rescue World that is short!! So please have a read.

The volunteers have left, saw dust has settled and the extra materials stashed for more dog house builds this winter. Whewwwww my goodness, what it has taken to get the 8 houses renovated and built from scratch!!! Darn those fulltime paying jobs we all have, that interfere with our volunteer work!!!

This year I volunteered to Team Lead to collect, store, renovate and deliver dog houses to Sunchild and O?Chiese First Nations Communities (FNC). It has been a huge under taking...you wouldn?t think so...but on August 14th after 5 months, a team of 7 of us delivered 9 houses. They all had: insulation, either vinyl or wood painted siding, shingled roofs, carpeted interior floors and a bed (from our March Sewing Bee). AARCS and telephone number was painted on the side of each. What more could a doggie wish for? Some were large enough to house 4 curled up doggies. This has been a wonderful project, providing much needed shelter from the elements to our FNC doggies.

From start to finish many people have been involved. To name a few:
? Linda, Derek & Diane for scanning Kijiji for free or requesting a free donation of dog houses
? The wonderful Calgary folks who donated houses
? The even more wonderful complete strangers off the street I hit up to help me load these houses when I went to pick them up from the neighbourhoods
? A great guy at Freeze Maxwell Roofing for shingles & nails
? George for shingles, nails & weather proofing wrap
? Sal & Lillian for nails & screws
? Builder Shaun & Painters Stacy & Darian
? Diane for her help and Kyle at Creekside Rona for plywood, insulation, nails& 2x4?s
? Build Team One: Diane, Jeff, Stephanie, Kris, Sarah, Dale and Chris
? Build Team Two: Spectra Energy for their enthusiastic crew of 12 ladies
? Build Team Three: East Edge Home Church ? Jason, Allison, Noah, Penny, Pat, Marily, Barry, Diana, Cal and John
? Kudo Industries for the wonderful donation of the use of their truck and 40? flat bed trailer, driver Darci Dagg and navigator Kerri Clarke
? Loading crew: Darci, Kerri, Kaman, Dale, Jason, Darren and Dave
? Delivery crew: Darci, Kerri, Kaman, Dale, Deanna, Anna
? FNC residents who accepted our donations and helped unload and shift dog house
? My street neighbours for their patience through the project?all houses & lumber where in our front yard for a long long time!!!
? Hubby Con for his patience
? And if I forgot you, sorry, thanks also for your help, I?ll keep better notes next time

Delivery day was special and what follow are some comments taken away from the experience that warm sunny August day; a day that will bring future shelter and warmth to a FNC doggie; a day that brought rescue and foster to little stray Cera; a day that brought foster and care to surrendered Mommy Solo and her pups Zippy, Yoko, Yoshi, Yoki, Yoda, Yin, Yang and Yuki; a day when pups sisters Lola & Kiddie stole two hearts and garnered AARCS a new couple into our foster family; and a day that three stray sister pups Arrow, Scout and Bowie joined our Crew.
And folks, ask Deanna how many dogs we were going to bring back that day!!!

Comment:
1. My boyfriend and I knew this was going to be an experience, but overall we both agree that it was very positive!!!

I can not tell you how amazing it felt to lay in bed that night and think of the fact that by us giving up one little day in our busy lives, we really made a difference! Not only did we help provide shelter and deliver food for many dogs, we saved 15 dogs, at least 10 of which we know are female's that would be out there making more puppies. This is something we would gladly do again.

It was also great to see how well AARCS interacts with the people, and be able to see first hand the difference they are making. One family we dropped a dog house off at in particular was very proud to tell us that AARCS had helped them get their female dog spayed and actually tried to help find a puppy that they wanted us to take back.

We hadn't planned on ending the day taking home two puppies to foster, but they are sweet little girls (Lola and Kiddie) and again in the end it is all worth the feeling of knowing that we are helping to make a difference.

Thanks so much AARCS for all you do.....Keep up the good work!!!
Kerri & Kaman

Saturday was quite the day. Starting my day at 6:45am I didn't know what to expect. Inspecting the truck and then venturing up to Rita's, where there was a handful of volunteers to help load all those dog house, the morning went great. Then it was time to hit the road and that we all did, trucks were fueled and coffee cups were full. We couldn't have asked for a better day for weather either! I do believe my bunny hug came off at 8:30 and never got put back on. I can't even really recall what time we got out to the res. That was not important to me, I knew what we were all there for and that was to help the less fortunate animals out there. It felt incredible giving to those families who could not afford to take care of their animals and who were truly thankful for AARCS help. Now I await for a call from McKnight Vet to tell me when I can go and pick Cera up! I look forward to the new adventure with the new foster!
Darci

I've done this many times over the past four years, but I must say this time we had a great "team". The team met in the morning for introductions and for 7 people who didn?t know each other, we work so well together. It was a team effort unloading those heavy dog houses, but we did it with ease and a few laughs. Even though as the leader I gave the team a little talk about how full were are with dogs and best not to bring any in, we arrived home with 15 more rescued animals. I was very impressed at how everyone kept their composure and was very respectful our First Nations people. It was great to see the kids smiling and happy dogs. Not all dogs left behind are uncared for, they just need a little hand up and by providing dog food, spay/neuter and a dog house, these dogs can live happily with their families. I must say, I have never been charged and bitten by a giant Saint Bernard before, but I'm glad it was me and not one of the new volunteers :) Not to worry, it wasn't a "real" bite, but a warning to back off and that I did!
Deanna

Anna has committed to returning and bringing in the female dogs seen on Saturday to be spayed and returned, never to have another litter of unwanted puppies Pretty short, but what's needed...those poor skinny things.

The day started out at a very humane hour - usually we are up and on the road by 5:00 or 6:00 a.m. First stop was Rita's where we all met to load up the doghouses. Our trip was to deliver the dog houses with two men and a few women along to lift, tug, pull and somehow wrangle the houses off the trucks at their destinations. We were instructed that we were not to rescue unless we found pups or injured dogs. Well we found plenty - sadly there more pups running around than I had ever seen out there. We managed to rescue a few pups and get a small whitish dog surrendered who reminded me of Oscar -one of my former fosters. At some point along the way we came across a house with a very thin mom dog trying her hardest to raise eight little ones that were a couple of weeks old. As Deanna talked to the owners trying to convince them to surrender the mom and babies the ladies - led by Anna each picked up a pup or two off the piece of wood they were resting on, with instructions to "GO" to the truck!!" as SOON as they were surrendered- there were a few tense moments waiting then they got the word to take them all. There were tears of joy as the ladies headed for the truck with their precious bundles and their incredibly emaciated mom who was quickly scooped up and loaded into the truck and we were off!!!! It was a long day with delivering the dog houses and then the rescues to their respective foster homes and a couple of calls home to let Sarah know to prepare for the NINE dogs I was bringing home for us to foster! (I was supposed to bring home A puppy!!) When I got home with this little family and things got sorted out - the pups were brought into the house - finally a warm place for them to sleep. We carried Mom into the house in the crate where she had spent the day - opened the door and as she slowly emerged wondering where she was --the reality of just how bad off this poor girl was hit home - I hadn't seen her up close - truly a pitiful sight - just a rack of bones with some scruffy fur to help keep her warm. A great day in rescue!! Truly a wonderful save - mom dog would not likely have made it much longer out there and her puppies surely would have died one by one.
Dale

It was a long day and only my second time up to the area. I will take away the awesome job Darci did of manoeuvring the truck and trailer into some of the positions we asked of her?it sure made unloading easier to be as close to the delivery spot as possible. Sorry about that narrow muddy road Deanna thought looped around!!! A bit of a back up job there eh!!! I think I will remember most how very thankful one little girl was that her doggie ?Gris? was getting a house. She hoped he would stay home more now and not get into trouble with the neighbour dogs. Gris is a handsome greyish Husky type dog with lovely marking. His winter coat hung in hunks from his frame. It will add to the insulation in his new house. The little girl, not much more than 10, had long hair framing her smiling face. She thanked us so so many times, a truly touching moment. I hope this little act of kindness for her doggie helps her in life?s journey.
Rita
Download build.docx

August 13, 2010

Dangers of Leg Hold Traps

http://calgary.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20100812/CGY_leg_hold_traps_100812/20100812/?hub=CalgaryHome

August 10, 2010

Update from Franklin AKA Mufasa

Thought I would send you a quick update.
Franklin is doing really really well.
He is growing so fast and is getting to be quite the big boy already.
He is happy, playful, and cuddly when he is starting to get tired, and will follow me where ever I go.
Tries to jump in the tub with me too! He will give up trying after a bit though (and being told No each time) and will sleep right beside it until I get out.
Last friday his right ear started standing straight up, and the next day his left ear caught up to it!
He looks kinda funny, I must admit. He really needs to grow into those big ears and big feet he has!

He is absolutely great both on and off the leash now!
He gets very excited when I ask him if he wants to go for a walk, and when I grab the leash and throw it on the floor he immediately takes it in his mouth and will bring it back to me.
We started walking in the Nose Hills too, and though I will make sure he is on the leash when I see other people (with or without dogs) approaching (I want to ensure his safety until he is fully trained), as soon as I let him off the leash he makes sure not to wander away from me, and is right behind me, beside me or in front of me, but never more than a few feet away.. He will then grab the other end of the leash I am holding in his mouth most of the time, and walk along that way. Too funny.

He is very good with all the grand children, extremely careful with the youngest one who is only 3 months old, and a bit more playful with the 2 and 3 year old girls. He doesn't realize that his little sharp puppy teeth startle them every now and then, but they have learned to tell him 'no teeth!' and he will correct himself, though his excitement and happy play sometimes will get the better of him still. But the girls as well as Franklin himself are learning quickly to be gentle with each other.

He loves to play with my daughter's cat, though Gibson (the cat) is not too sure about him yet and runs away when Franklin approaches him too fast.

We love him to pieces, and enjoy his company so much!

Almost forgot, I did have this one picture here of Franklin that I can send you now.
It was taken in our sun room, after he had once again rummaged through the girls' toybox and found a toy he wanted to play with.
He fell asleep with Woodie shortly there after..

August 9, 2010

Emmy

Just wanted to let you know that Emmy is doing great we love her so much!! She is a little scared of our hardwood floors but we are working on that. Just wanted to let you know that she is getting used to us and is being loved lots. If you are ever in Okotoks come by for a visit. I will keep you updated on her as I am sure you miss her lots.

August 9, 2010

Update on Marlie AKA Marla

Look at how adorable she is with her new sister!!!!

August 3, 2010

Revealed: No Country for Animals

"Think occasionally of the suffering of which you spare yourself the sight."
~Albert Schweitzer

Where did that puppy in the window come from?

Is there a difference in the pain a dog or cat feels to what a farm animal does?

Did you know the animal laws in Canada have not changed since 1892!What is YOUR government doing to protect animals in Canada?

Time for Change - see how other countries are doing things differently, and how you can make a difference ! Be a champion for change. Follow the link to an important documentary on animal cruelty in Canada. View Discretion Advised

http://www.globaltvbc.com/Revealed+Country+Animals/3336734/story.html

Consider humanely raised farm animals, check out The BC SPCA certified farms in Alberta.

http://www.spca.bc.ca/welfare/farm-animal-welfare/spca-certified/spca-certified-retailers/

Fight for Animal Right in Canada along side the World Society for Protection of Animals.

www.wpsa.ca

August 2, 2010

Update on Molly AKA Romy!!

Just a quick little update on her...she is doing just great!. We have only had her for three weeks and the change is unbelievable. She doesn't look away when you look at her & after the first week she was actually going up to strangers (woman the most) when we were walking her. Ron mostly walks them and she loves being down at the river and chasing Max (our little rescue from December (about ten months old) and the stick. She loves rolling around on the grass and will play for a very long time with him in the back yard. What was unexpected was that we weren't sure of how my son's rottie would take to her. We knew that max would be no trouble and that because he is so happy and outgoing he would most likely bring her out of her shell...but surprise suprise she just loves the rottie . She walks over and keeps putting her paw on his head: which is what she does to us when we are on the floor playing with her. My son's house will be finished shortly and he will be taking him
with him, but she will still be able to see him. Max, was our rescue from December.
When my son found him (up North and abandoned and roughly four months he was dirty with lice, worms and was only five pounds. He is a beautiful gold lab X. Two days later my son brought him home to us and we just couldn't understand why he was so happy because of what he had obviously been through. We took him to our vet and had him checked out, She gave him his shots, de-liced him and de-wormed him. Remarkably he wasn't as bad as we thought. He only checked clear of worms last week and we had been trying to get rid of them since December and our vet now tells us that he could stand to lose a few pounds! there is no shortage of love for them both and we are very thankful that we again are being given the opportunity to help and love two new companions. ( Our beloved rottie, Zeus had to be put to sleep one week after Max got here and one week before Christmas, He was 12 1/2 and although we were devastated we knew it was coming. He had a wonderful life and couldn't have been loved more.but he gave us far more then we gave him. Then just a couple of weeks before Molly entered our life our 13 year old basset passed away (he was also a rescue, who had been rescued when he was one) Molly and Max will always have a wonderful home with us for what we hope is a very long time and they will never want for anything
especially love.

August 1, 2010

Update on Emma!!!

I just wanted to give you an update on Emma who we adoped on March 10, 2010. At that time she weighed 27 pounds. We weighed her at 57 pounds today. She is a sweet but extremely shy little girl but she is coming out of her shell more and more.

July 19, 2010

Update on Frankie A.K.A Mufasa!

We already have a fantastic update on Frankie AKA Mufasa who was adopted only days ago!!

Way to go Frankie on finding your forever home!!!


I just wanted to thank you for having accepted our application for Mufasa.

We are incredibly happy with him and he is doing really well, he had a terrific first day and night!
He is a joy to be around, and he definitely lets you know when he has to go out (though not with much notice, lol), he has not had an accident in the house yet.
He loves his big fluffy dog pillow, and already claimed it as his bed. He loves his toys as well, but most of all he just loves being really close to us and being petted and spoken to.
I took him for his first walk yesterday, and though he was a tad bit hesitant with the leash (didn't quite know what to make of it yet), once we were on our way he did really well. Just does not like the sidewalks and cars driving by yet, but he does great on the bike path trail and on the grassy hills around it.
His dog pillow is right beside our bed at night, and he happily stayed on it and never made a peep all night..
He did wake me up at 5:30 (which is good, because I had forgotten to set my alarm and had to get up!) and as soon as I opened the back door he went and did his business outside.

Hope you don't mind, but we did change his name. Mufasa is a very cute name, but was too difficult for the grandchildren.
Our 3 year old grand daughter insisted that he was 'Frankie', so we settled on 'Franklin'.
He already responds to his name and is so smart and adorable!!!

July 8, 2010

70+ Animals Spay and Neutered

AARCS, along with Pound Rescue spent June 24-27th rounding up 70+ cats and dogs on our First Nations to spay and neuter. With the help of many, many volunteers we spent 2 days driving dogs to Calgary to seven participating vet clinics where they were spay or neutered, vaccinated and dewormed. An additional 2 days of driving them back to the respective homes. In addition, 30+ dogs and cats were surrendered, 13 whom are now in the care of AARCS foster families.

We would like to say a BIG thank you to the following clinics for providing discounted services to making this happen:

Deerfoot Animal Hospital (Dr McBride)

Copperfield Veterinary Clinic (Dr. Sandou)

Centre Street Veterinary Clinic

DeWinton Veterinary Clinic

Cambrian Veterinary Clinic

Falconridge Animal Hospital

McKnight 24 Hr Emergency Hospital


Also, a HUGE thank you to all the volunteers who donated their time and vehicles to drive animals back and forth. This would never have been possible without you! A special note of thanks goes out to RJ Bailot of Pound Rescue who organized the clinic very last minute after the on-site clinic was canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.

The bills have not yet been tallied up, but the cost is likely to exceed $10,000. If you would like to donate to help reduce the overpopulation of animals please visit our "how you can help" page or click on the donate button on the home page.
Download ode-to-the-humans.doc

July 8, 2010

Rocky Road

Well, it?s been a year now since we brought home Rocky (Rocky Road) and we figure it?s time to send an update!

He is an absolutely fantastic dog and we don?t think we could have made a better choice. His energy is a perfect fit for us, he?s smart, obedient, an absolute goof and has personality for days! Everyone loves him, he?s just too friendly for his own good!!!

Rocky has done 2 obedience classes and an intro into agility class. He?s a little too clumsy for agility though, his feet just get in the way! He is now in Schutzhund, and although I don?t think he?ll ever be a championship Schutzhund dog (he just doesn?t have the drive or personality for protection) it?s great getting him out every week to keep up on his obedience and learn new things. He?s becoming a master tracker and his nose is always to the ground! In October we hope to enter him into getting his BH title!

We did the DNA my dog on Rocky and you?ll never guess the results! It gives us a chuckle every time.

Level 2: Maltese
Level 4: Great Pyrenees
Level 4: German Shepherd Dog
Level 4: Miniature Pinscher
Level 5: Newfoundland
Level 5: Boston Terrier

You wouldn?t believe the looks I get when I say I have a Maltese cross ;)

I?ve attached a LOTS pictures of my main squeeze, he?s grown up into quite the handsome fellow. Thank you for bringing such a wonderful family member into our lives, he is an absolute joy!

Rhiannon, Kelly and Rocky

June 18, 2010

Update on Arrow A.K.A Razaar!!

Hi Shanna and Tracy!

Just wanted to give you guys an update on Razaar. His new name is Arrow and he took to it very quickly. He's a quick learner and has become pretty good on the leash in just a few days of training. He hangs around the yard very well with us. He's been coming down to the river with us lots and loves splashing around in the water. He's a bit shy around new
dogs and people, but warms up to everyone after a few minutes. He gains more confidence with this each day. We are so happy to have this great little guy as part of our family! We love him!

Thanks for rescuing him and his litter. What a great thing you guys do.

Amanda and Chris

June 14, 2010

Adult Dogs

Sadly, some people seem to think dogs that end up in rescues/shelters are because they are bad dogs or have behavioural or medical problems. In reality, we often get dogs because they had impulsive owners who really did not have the time, energy or willingness to shoulder the responsibility required to be a good dog owner. Once the novelty of have a puppy wears off they end up in shelters and rescues like ours. Cute as they are, puppies are a tremendous responsibility and, with the busy schedules that most of us have, housebreaking, socialization, and train takes a lot of effort.

Dogs adopted in adulthood will bond to you just as well as puppies, and often better. They've been around, and if you provide them with a really good home, they'll recognize and appreciate it. You already know their size, a small puppy may end up a huge dog.

Other great things about adopting an adult dog:
? They generally sleep through the night!
? Already house-trained
? Older dogs have learned their manners (unlike puppies who still have to learn not to bite, jump and chew)
? Their energy level, temperament and personality are established

You truly save a life when you adopt an adult dog. You actually save two because we are able to go out and rescue another one right away. On your search for a new best friend, please consider adopting an adult dog.

Adult dogs are great, but you still have to be ready for a dog (adult or puppy). Please consider before getting a dog

? Commitment - some dog live upwards to 15 years
? Financial commitment - average $1000 a year (food, vet bills, etc)
? All dogs need regular daily exercise and socialization (not just a big back yard)
? Dog are hairy and require regular grooming and you can expect additional house cleaning when you own a dog
? All dogs, like people will make mistakes. Learn to forgive and search for the root the of issue when a problem arises.
? Dogs are not disposable? please consider your life plans before getting a dog (having a baby, traveling, housing arrangements)
Download how-could-you.pdf

June 9, 2010

Servus Credit Union Block Party

Servus Credit Union in Three Hills hosted there Annual Block Party Bar-B-Que with all proceeds going to AARCS. Attending from AARCS was Church, Katie, Diane and Anna...the ladies help serve up the meal while Church was kept busy cooking the burgers. The day was beautiful and sunny, the meal delicious and comments by those attending 'it was nice to see an event where animals are helped". A big thank you to the Servus Credit Union and the Co-sponsors for helping us help the animals.
Click on the document to see photos. Download block-party--2010-.doc

June 8, 2010

Thank you Sharon and John!

AARCS would like to acknowledge and thanks folks like Sharon and John Haley who recently made some very timely donations to us. Just as we were needing to quarantine the Monster mange puppies they donated a very large chain link dog run to us. In a matter of hours it was put to good use housing 4 of the pups for their weeks of quarantine. The Haley's also donated, crates, beds, food, bowls, collar, leashes, harness, puppy training pads, newsprint roll ends and newspapers...all items that will be put to good use.

Sharon has donated her time at the dog bed sewing bees and then she and John joined Rita to fill their 2 vans to the brim with the 75 some dog beds and transport and off load into storage. Sharon will also soon be helping Rita with some food donation tasks and will puppy sit Little Joey while Rita is off donating her time at the Alberta Task Force Spay Neuter Vaccination Clinic.

Sharon and John are long time cat & dog owners, currently being owned by one kitty and a young Belgian Shepherd of the Groenendael variety. We are so appreciative of them now having "house & garage cleaned" with AARCS being the beneficiaries. It is through the thoughtfulness and efforts of people like the Haleys that our rescue charity keeps going. Thank you Sharon and John from all the paws at AARCS.

June 8, 2010

Update from Coda!!!

Hi Jen. Dug the camera out for a short walk with Coda this morning. I will try to keep it(the camera) close so I can get more cause he is such a load of fun I wish I could capture it all but I wanted to send you a few cause I know how much you and the boys must miss him. He loves his new life and has adjusted really well. As you will see in the pics he prefers to take charge of the leash himself but when we walk together alone he doesn't
even need it and I only use it to get to the park cause the law says I should. He's getting all the love and attention any dog could dream for but I'm sure he would say "I love and miss you foster mommy" if he could. You saved and gave him life and for that we will always be grateful.


Charles

May 30, 2010

AARCS Newsletter

AARCS has been very busy the past few months behind the scenes so we thought we should share with you a few of the things happening and what you can except to see over the summer! Download aarcs-newsletter.pdf

May 28, 2010

Bosley Discovers the Water!

May 27, 2010

Update from Bunny AKA Tala

Tala is really fitting in well! She was able to spend the night without me nearby and stayed home alone for 5 hours today with no problem. As a treat (and to reduce my guilt) I did take her to Dogma yesterday to play with other four legged friends -
the staff LOVED her. I am happy to see her separation anxiety reducing as I come and go more. She is just wonderful and listens well. I am excited to do some more formalized obedience training with her to work some more commands in and keep
building our relationship. I can't believe such a wonderful dog was homeless for so many months. Thank you for rescuing her.

Jodi

May 22, 2010

Update from Sheba (AKA Qtip!)

Just to let you know that I am doing really great and love my new mum and dad, I have now been to doggy day care twice and have made lots of new friends, my best friend there is a Great Pyrenees.

I have been a bit naughty though and chewed one of my legs after my operation to have my dew claws removed, mum had to take me back to the vet yesterday to have another couple of stitches put back in, I have promised her I won't do it again!!!

Mum told me you are in need of some money for vet bills at the moment so I have been saving up my pocket money every week and would like to donate it to you, mum sent it through her PayPal account, I have managed to save up $250.00 to help you out and to say a big thank you for my new mum and dad, they love me very much.

Must dash off now, I have lots of playing to do with my new sister Cheyenne, we get on really well but she is the boss and I respect that, some times I need to be put in my place and she does that for me, I end up lying on my back but she never hurts
me, she just tells me off.

Lots of love.

Sheba.

May 17, 2010

Update on Scarlett

Happy Mother?s Day Lori!

It?s Scarlett and I wanted to write you a note on this special day for moms because you were the best foster mom that a puppy could ask for!

My sister and I have been spending lots of time on the farm with all the Collies and our grandparents. Mom and dad have been roading biking a lot so we all pile into the car and drive to the farm where I get to run around EVERYWHERE while they bike. I?m not sure what this biking thing is all about but I am sure that running with the collies, swimming in the pond and rolling in the horse poop is way more fun. But I don?t like the part at the end though where I get a bath, especially after I work so hard to make myself smell so wonderful.

I also discovered something amazing yesterday. The horses were having pedicures by this guy called a Fierier. Quistis showed me how to find the yummy hoofs that were falling off all over the ground, the guy didn?t even realize what he was throwing away. We ate so many hoofs, but Quistis told me to go easy on them at first so they didn?t upset my tummy. I wish I had listened, cause mommy had to sit up with me this morning at 4am when I started throwing up. But don?t worry I feel much better now and even had an extra helping of duck stew with my dinner.

OK, I should run now, I have lots of important things to do around here. Like eating the toilet paper, that doesn?t get done if I don?t do it! Good thing that I love to shred it everywhere and am really good at it! Sometimes I wear my shredded confetti outfit around the house and even get it all over my sister. That is a really good day when that happens!

I hope you like the picture of me, dad is a photographer and he says that when I sit still I take beautiful pictures. It just is so hard to sit still, I like running around so much more, but I guess I am pretty cute in this picture.

Love?Scarlett

May 12, 2010

Update on Koda!!

We are writing to update the shelter on KODA (adopted Feb 2008. He is AKA Wallace now. He is a very lovable, fun and energetic dog. He loves to play fetch, swim, go camping, and go for walks. He is much bigger now that he is 2 1/2, he is approx 130-135lbs...Yes he is a big boy...most people can't believe how BIG he is...but he is a Big Teddy Bear. He also has been neutered. Again thank you for the opportunity with Wallace, he has been an awesome addition to our family. :-)

Lindsay, Adam and Wallace

May 11, 2010

Update on Paco!!

Click here for an update on Paco! Download paco.docx

April 27, 2010

Update on Degan!!

I just want wanted to send you a quick email and say, ?Thank you?; to you and all of the wonderful people at AARC. We adopted our boy Degan last April, he is by far the love of our lives and we couldn?t imagine how we were a family without him. He has come so far in a year; when we first got Degan he had some major anxiety issues. It was an up hill battle for the first couple of months, slowly but surely he began to improve and became the cuddly lug we have now. I think honestly because he was adopted previously and they had to return him, he definitely felt abandoned. He truly is a blessing, and we are grateful everyday that we are lucky enough to have
found him.

For every horrible situation you see, there is an animal out there getting all the love and attention it deserves. Hopefully one day there will be an end to animal cruelty and abuse; until then we have to work together in preventing as much of it as possible.


All the Best,

Victoria

April 21, 2010

Tasha has been found!

After 4 long weeks, Tasha made it home. Not without the help and dedication of her foster mom Loraine Seth.
We would like to thank the many people in the Kingsland area who helped Tasha by putting food out and watching out for her. Also, a big thank you to all the people who called in reports, spent hours searching for her and spreading the word via e-mail, facebook, etc.
Tasha 4 weeks on the loose included, escaping city animal control workers, scaling fences and she even managed to get food out of a trap without setting if off. She is now home in her foster home, racing around the yard, tail wagging, "talking" and very happy. We think (hope) she has found her "forever home" with her foster mom.
Check out the News page for the full story. Download tasha-is-home.docx

April 12, 2010

Pet Expo 2010 Highlights

Download pet-expo-2010doc.doc

March 25, 2010

Update from Bear!! (A.K.A. Everest)

It?s been quite a while and I wanted to update you on Bear?s progress. He is truly a part of the family, and makes himself comfortable on any piece of furniture he likes. He has an update for you:
-----------------------

My new family really loves me. They give me lots of loving and I get a few more treats than I probably should, but I don?t mind. I?m growing big and strong, and weigh in at 56 lbs now. We get out for nice, long walks most weekends and now the weather is nice we try to get little walks around town every day (but sometimes it?s ok to just hang out on the deck and relax, too).

The cats still don?t particularly like me, but they don?t bother me as long I stay behind the doggy gate. It?s really not very nice; if I get downstairs into their territory Tiger chases me right back up. Mom thinks it?s funny, me being scared of a little kitty, but he has sharp claws! Maybe one day they?ll let me come down there and hang out, too. I really would like to play with them.

I?m a very good guard dog. If someone comes to the house I bark and look to see who it is. I?m not too noisy, but I let my family know there is someone out there who maybe shouldn?t be. I?m better than a doorbell!

I finally lost all my baby teeth, so I don?t chew so much any more. I still like Kleenex and things I?m really not supposed to eat, but I am getting better. Since my teeth aren?t so sharp these days it?s lots more fun to play with me, too.

Mom thinks I?m a very handsome dog, so I have attached some pictures so you can see how much I?ve grown. I couldn?t even get on the couch by myself when I came home for the first time and now I just step up with ease.

Well, that?s it for me; I hope you like my pictures.

---------------------

We are really enjoying having Bear in our home. It feels like he?s always been here and it?s hard to believe he only came to us in December.

One day, when he?s been here a while longer and has all the rules down pat, we may be looking for a brother sister (but we?ll have to wait and see).

Jake and I have been looking at the AARCS site lots again lately. We have a good friend who?s looking for another family member. She?s also trying to recruit her daughter and her husband to the cause (they really love Celeste and Shar is looking for someone a bit smaller in stature).

Hope all is well with you both. Take care,

Cheryl

March 21, 2010

Results of the Dog Bed Sewing Bee

Saturday - As I do some final sorting on this night before I have a tear in my eye...a tear of awesome amazement from the "generosity" of those who were able to donate materials at this time.

Each piece of furniture in the small front room is piled high with materials, sorted into categories: fleecy type warm topping, durable bottom fabric, miscellaneous sheet, flannel sheet, pillow cases, fluffy quilts, pillows, miscellaneous clothing, clothing needing buttons & zippers taken off, miscellaneous & small scraps, fabric pieces. The extra bedroom has a huge piece of foam and 3 large beds needing new covers. I have no idea how this will turn out and if I can house this many people.

Sunday - Man alive!!! 16 of us made the sewing machines whirl, the needles click, the scissors clank and material crumple. We have an amazing 24 beds made, 14 more assembled - just needing final stitching and an estimated amount of material left for 12 more....50...each with a red heart adorning the top, some also with a paw print. The huge stacks of beds are unbelievable!!!!

Ladies you are FANTASTIC!!! A BIG thank you to ALL who helped: monetary, Tim Horton treats, materials and time. On behalf of the doggie and kitties who will benefit, having the warmth of a bed, other than the cold frozen ground, "Woof wooooof" and "meow meeeeow".

AARCS volunteer, Rita O'Leary

And once again, thank you Diane at Eye Catching Moments Photography for taking photos!
Download sewing-bee-2010.doc

March 20, 2010

Donation Drive a Huge Success

A group donation drive in March was a huge success. AARCS recieved a large amount of food for fosters and res dogs, blankets, toys, collars, a kennel, etc, etc, etc

Thank you to Patti for organizing this wonderful event and to the people of Calgary for donating the much needed items! Download donation-drive-barkinglot.doc

March 16, 2010

Get your 2 for 1 pass to Calgary Pet Expo

Click on the link for your 2 for 1 ticket into the 10th Annual Calgary Pet Expo.

March 27-28th
Saturday 11 - 6pm
Sunday 11 - 5pm

Lower Level, Big Four Stampede Park

Just print and show at the doors!

Hope to see you all there! Download pet-coupon.doc

March 13, 2010

Foster homes needed...

Please help our mange babies...

It was supposed to be a simple run, drop off some dog-food, a dog house and pick up one dog. After the second stop we had already picked up 2 pups suffering horribly from mange. A few stops down the road we discovered the rest of the litter, 7 pups in all. Absolutely appalled by their condition, we knew despite being at capacity plus, they could not be left behind. Its always hard to the rescue team to say "No" when you see a dog that needs to come in and you know there is no room in the foster homes, but there was no way we were going to leave them behind for certain death. At the end of the day, rescuers headed to Calgary with 11 more rescued dogs.

?Where there?s a will, there?s a way?
With the help of several volunteers we were able to organize transport of a dog run to a foster home's heated garage so the pups could be taken into care. A big thank you to Dr. M. Scheck of Poplar Grove Veterinary Services (Innisfail) for seeing us on short notice and ensuring all our dogs were started immediately on treatment to ease the discomfort of this terrible, agonizing mite.

In only 3 short months of life these pups have known little kind treatment from humans and have been suffering with a condition most have never seen this bad. Hair loss, accompanied by crusting, pain, enlarged lymph nodes, deep skin infections, open wounds, inflammation of the skin so sever to cause eye lids to swell shut, chronic itching, and overall misery has been inflicting these pups for a long time. They will need advanced care including daily meds and several treatments to get them on the rebound to being healthy, normal pups again. The care these pups need are very time consuming and the costs are building every day. In the mean time, they can not be normal pups allowed to play with other dogs (aside from their infected littermates), or snuggle on the couch, or be allowed to explore the world until they test negative for the mites. This all could have been prevented, and stopped long before they got this bad with simple human intervention and proper veterinary care..

AARCS currently has 65 dogs in care, with 50 of them "behind the scenes" (too young, not ready for adoption, receiving treatment or awaiting surgery). We have several litters that need to be split up for one on one socializing, prior to adoption. If you can, please open your home to a rescue dog in our foster program. If you are not able to foster please consider donating or sponsoring one of our mange babies, lovingly named after the characters from Monsters Inc., Sulley, Mikey, Smitty, Randell, Boo, Celia, and Roz.

If you have room in your heart and your home, please contact Paula at 403-669-4387 or foster@albertaanimalrescuecrew.com and become a foster parent today!

To see more photos click on the link below. Download manage-babies.docx

March 11, 2010

The Bidding is Complete!

OUR WIN IS GOLDEN, EH!!

The Olympic Team Canada Women Ice Hockey has yet again proven their superb athletic skills, tremendous passion, combined powerful strength and sportmanship. We are very proud to be represented by these amazing woman who are movers and shakers in the sports world. Congratulations and Thank You Team Canada!
In celebration, two AARCS volunteers, Mary Cole & Gary Kurtz, have donated an extra-large 2010 Olympic Team Jersey signed by every player!! This is your excuse to join this exciting silent auction to support the rescue and care of our animals in need. Imagine - when YOU win that final bid, you and your family will forever own a piece of Canadian History, and always be reminded of your generosity and kindness in support of our kindred spirits!

Final BID: $1750.00 !!

February 25, 2010

Update from Aspen!!!

Dear AARCS,

Just thought we would update you on Aspen, now Tango as our dog that we already had was Cash so know we have Tango & Cash. We should have sent this a long time ago but we have just been having so much fun with him, he is such a clown he really makes us laugh, his new thing is lets see how many toys i can get in my mouth he is up to three and trying for more. He loves long walks along the river path and going to the dog park where he meets and greats four legged and two legged alike. He just loves it when our grandkids come, our grandaughter likes to teach him new tricks and our grandson likes to play tug of war with him and get pulled around the hardwood floors.
My husband hasn't been well for a few months and Tango along with our old girl Cash have gladly keep him company, Tango is very intuitive, if my husband is having alot of pain that day Tango will quietly come up to him, which is hard for him as he charges eveywhere always in a hurray, and put his head on his lap and look up at him as if he is saying "i know you are hurting and i wish i could help!" Our son spends most of his time with the dogs they are best friends, as it's just to hard on Cash so her and i go on short walks and away they go on many excursions along the river paths and look forward to some long hikes this spring. He reminds who ever is home everyday when it is time to go meet our special needs daughter at the bus stop, i don't get to meet her a much as i like with my work schedule but when i went the first time he showed me the short cut through the park and to bus stop and then just sat down and waited and i could tell before the bus was even in sight that it was coming by his reaction, he likes to meet her at the bus door and protect her until she gets across the street, it's one of the high lights of her day and he is much more gentle with her than the rest of us.
So we just wanted to thank his fostor family for such a great puppy we are so proud of him people always comment on how friendly he is and we tell anyone who will listen that we adopted him from AARCS and what a great things they do, so keep up the good work and we hope that the word is getting out. Better go i don't want to miss any of the antics.

Thanks again,

The Patterson family

February 19, 2010

Big Black Dog Syndrome

Did you know that black dogs, especially big black dogs, such as Labs and Lab mixes, Rottweilers, or Newfoundlands, are usually the last ones to be adopted and black dogs, and cats too, are euthanized at a higher rate than other animals.

This phenomenon is so common it even has a name: big black dog syndrome or BBD.

Take a look at our adoption page right now and you will see almost all black dogs. Some of these dog?s siblings have been adopted, often because they had a lighter colored coat. Yesterday we brought in 3 more black pups, we have litter of 6 black pups coming up for adoption and 5 out of 9 more pups in a second litter. When you look for a dog, please think about personality and temperament and consider giving a black dog a spot in your family.

Midnight, Chunk & Tucker are three beautiful big black dog crosses that have been waiting patiently for their forever home. Have you passed over them because they look to ?ordinary? ? These dogs are far from ordinary and promise to give you unconditional love and companionship.

February 11, 2010

Update from Scarlett!!!

Dear Lori

It?s Scarlett again! How are my friends the ferrets?

I have had such a busy few weeks with my new family. First I met both my new Grandparent?s this past weekend. On Saturday we went down south to met daddy?s parents. They have a little dog named Nikki who is awfully fluffy, she showed me her back yard full of snow. I ate a green pepper too?boy did I have stinky breathe that night!

Then on Sunday we all got in the car and drove a really long way. Mom said that we were going to the Farm, all I know is that when we finally got there 5 crazy collies scared the pants off me. I was quickly whisked into the house where I met my mom?s family?they fawned over me and slowly introduced me to the collies again. I keep getting their names mixed up, there is Bella, Sophie, Dulcie, Sheena and Lexi?but I don?t know who is who right now. My sister Quistis says that it doesn?t really matter because we are the only two allowed to be in the house and therefore we get to call all the shots! That sounds exciting! The farm is really big, with so much snow. And I know I can smell some funny animal smells there. Quisits says they are called horses. I got to go to the barn to smell and get mucky in their stalls!

Monday seems to be mom?s day off?we have been doing lots of errands together. Basically me and Quistis play important roles in mom accomplishing lots of stuff. I helped with the vacuuming by sitting on a sofa and barking my head off. Did I mention that Quistis has helped me find my bark? Dad doesn?t seem to share my excitement about this, so I keep barking to see if he?ll get used to it. We also drove out west to Bragg Creek to meet my new vet. There are no ferrets here but I met Eddie her ?reserve special? dog?we traded stories about where we came from. I got a full check up and something called ?kennel cough? vaccine?that was yucky, it was like a backward sneeze up my nose?ewwww. I am now 10.6 pounds, and doing great. My stitches in my mouth weren?t healing well so we took them out, I wasn?t too happy about this, but it?s all good now that it is done. The best part was when Dr Judith gave me my very own Kong to take home!

I want you to know that I have decided all food is great. I lick my bowl clean and really like this thing called kibble which I eat for both breakfast and dinner, along with my favorite duck soup. I also LOVE cheese, I think cheese might be the best thing ever!!! Quistis likes this stuff called peanut butter, I think that is OK but my other favorite thing right now is to destroy Quistis? kongs. I also really enjoy paper and pens, yummy! Mom says she now understands how ?the dog ate my homework? came to be!

I was really lucky this weekend when I got some hand-me-downs from Grandma at that farm, like new stylish coats. These came from Grandma?s old puppy, who was also named Scarlet. Best of all I now have my own big plush bed, which is nice because I don?t have to get up every 2 hours to investigate the bedroom now so we all get a good night sleep! Mom has got me my own brush and keeps me nice and neat, I don?t think I like this. And I notice that Quistis doesn?t have to suffer the same indignity. But she gets her teeth brushed every night and that doesn?t seem like any fun?the vet says that I have to wait another week until I have to worry about a tooth brush.

Well, I am going to toodle off now. I have some important Quistis pestering to do and then maybe she?ll let me sleep next to her again like the other day.

Lots of snuggles and kisses!

Scarlett

February 5, 2010

Don't Shop - Adopt!

Many Puppies made it ?In from the Cold? with AARCS in January. We rescued 3 kittens come from the First Nation Community (FNC) of Hobbema. Arriving next would be 4 orphan puppies about 4 weeks old from FNC of Big Horn about 1.5 hours north of Rocky Mountain House. The following week, 6 newborn puppies and their Mom (Tasha) from FNC Sunchild near Rocky Mountain House and a very pregnant Romy, would arrive from the Blood First Nation south of Calgary, giving birth to 9 puppies less than one week later.

These new arrivals will grow and develop behind the scenes in AARCS care until they are ready for their forever homes. You can watch for them on our website in a couple of months. Remember all AARCS animals are spayed or neutered, thus saving you that added expense for your new family member.

Thank you to the families on the First Nation Communities who surrendered their animals to us, and all the AARCS volunteers who completed the rescues, came forward to foster and everyone who works 24/7 to make life better for animals.

February 4, 2010

Scarlet

Paula, Quistis, and I wanted to thank you and AARCS for the amazing adoption service and efforts taken in providing care for furry companions. Your organization has brought Scarlett into our life, who in turn has changed our life. This change is not simply from the addition of Scarlett to our family, but began as a result of the adoption process. We gained a deeper knowledge of animals in need, developed an understanding of animal rescue/adoption, and met the most selfless foster mom. Few people are as giving and as committed to pets as Lori Wiebe. She has structured her life around creatures in need, making her home a refuge of generosity and unconditionally providing her time to both pets and adoptee candidates. I was inspired by Lori?s strength when Paula and I picked up Scarlett, because as much as it saddened her to let Scarlett go, she saw it as enabling her to help out the next pup in need. I know no one as altruistic as Lori Wieb. We are privileged to have met her.

Lori and Scarlett have impacted our lives more than I could have ever anticipated, which we owe thanks to you and AARCS. Please extend our gratitude to everyone in your organization.

February 3, 2010

Setting the records straight?.

We at AARCS are saddened to hear that a fellow rescue group that we work closely with is being accused of breeding dogs. The volunteers at Misty Creek Dog Rescue are dedicated animal lovers who have saved countless lives. We can?t imagine the hurt they feel being accused of something that goes completely against what they are trying to fight against. If you hear such a rumor, feel confident in telling these people that it is completely untrue! Like AARCS, Misty Creek often gets large litters of unwanted puppies or pregnant dogs into their rescue. We are thankful they have the ability to rescue these animals so they are not left to die. Many of the rescue groups in Calgary work closely together to help as many dogs as we can, we are all friends with similar passions, we just happen to volunteer for different groups. We have worked directly with Misty Creek and the Alberta Spay Neuter Task Force to try and reduce the large over-population of animals in Alberta. They have assisting in holding animals in their shelter for us while awaiting placement in foster homes. Shauna and her team spend countless volunteer hours helping the abandoned, abused, or surrendered dogs get back on their feet and find forever permanent homes. Please help stop these nasty rumors and set the record straight!

February 2, 2010

Thank you Woodland Vet Clinic.

We would like to send a big thank you to Woodland's Veterinary Clinic! They helped find Lady Bea back to her foster home when she escaped and recently donated about 10 bags of dog food and a bunch of cat food. This week we spoke to them about Romy needing some wet puppy food, and they donated 3 flats of paediatric canned dog food, a few more bags of dry food! Thank you Woodland for go the extra mile to help us and our dogs.

February 1, 2010

Change a Life, for Just One!

We are need of foster homes! We just got a call about a mom dog and 6 babies (born last night, or within the last 24 hours). The rescuers could not leave her as it broke their hearts to see her outside in the cold and they knew the babies would not survive? we have no where to take her and are desperately in need of a foster home. WE FOUND A FOSTER HOME FOR THIS FAMILY BUT ARE STILL LOOKING FOR FOSTER HOMES FOR THOSE LEFT BEHIND.
As the temperatures dip again, we are desperately seeking YOU to help. We've had to turn quite a few away because there is no room. If you are not currently a foster home, please consider opening your home to an animal in need. I PROMISE it will fill your heart with warmth! Please help us save just one!

...The Starfish...
Once upon a time there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work.
One day he was walking along the shore. As he looked down the beach, he saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself to think of someone who would dance to the day.
So he began to walk faster to catch up. As he got closer, he saw that it was a young man and the young man wasn't dancing, but instead he was reaching down to the shore, picking up something and very gently throwing it into the ocean.
As he got closer he called out, "Good morning! What are you doing?" The young man paused, looked up and replied, "Throwing starfish in the ocean." "I guess I should have asked, why are you throwing starfish in the ocean?"
"The sun is up, and the tide is going out. And if I don't throw them in they'll die."
"But, young man, don't you realise that there are miles and miles of beach, and starfish all along it. You can't possibly make a difference!"
The young man listened politely. Then bent down, picked up another starfish and threw it into the sea, past the breaking waves and said, "It made a difference for that one!"

January 27, 2010

Calendar Content Results!

The results are in from our calendar contest. The DNA results for our May 2010 dog Sheba are as follows!

Newfoundland level 2
German Shorthaired Pointer level 3
German Shepherd Dog level 3
Italian Greyhound level 5

Congratulations to Janie Agar of Nanaimo who will recieve a free DNA kit!

We still have Calendars available for sale!

January 6, 2010

T'was the night before Christmas, Chained in the Yard

T'was the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
With no thought of the dog filling their head.
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
Knew he was cold, but didn't care about that.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Figuring the dog was free and into the trash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the luster of midday to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But Santa Claus - his eyes full of tears.
He unchained the dog, once so lively and quick,
Last years Christmas present, now thin and sick.
More rapid than eagles he called the dog's name.
And the dog ran to him, despite all his pain;
"Now, DASHER! Now, DANCER! Now, PRANCER and VIXEN!
On, COMET! On CUPID! On, DONNER and BLITZEN!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Let's find this dog a home where he'll be loved by all"
I knew in an instant there would be no gifts this year,
For Santa Claus had made one thing quite clear,
The gift of a dog is not just for the season,
We had gotten the pup for all the wrong reasons.
In our haste to think of giving the kids a gift
There was one important thing that we missed.
A dog should be family, and cared for the same
You don't give a gift, then put it on a chain.
And I heard him exclaim as he rode out of sight,
"You weren't given a gift! You were given a life!"

Author Unknown

January 4, 2010

Thank You For Your Support!

Our goal at AARCS is to ensure we NEVER contribute to the already over population of animals. With a goal of such magnitude we must maintain expenses within an affordable level while providing the best possible care for the animals. AARCS is a powerful network of volunteers, foster homes, and through general support by others we can continue to promote animal welfare through field work, campaigning, education and strive to ensure all animals have adequate food, shelter and love.

Volunteers for AARCS work 24/7 and any support you could give to eliminate animals suffering allows us to care for animals in crisis until they find a forever home.

Please consider us for a donation, and remember "until there are none, rescue one" Our rescued animals and volunteers wish you a wonderful Christmas and a peaceful and fulfilling New Year.

We would like to send a special thank you to the following people and organizations for donating this holiday season!

Durwest Construction
Uniglobe Travel
Encana
Petsmart Charities
Sharon & Martin Miina
Quick-Lube Plus