Wordless Wednesday: Santa's Little Helper

Yogi Bear is ready for his first Christmas! 

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November Recap!

TAGS had a busy November! 

In addition to our regularly scheduled sessions at Whitby PetSmart and local Pet Valu locations, our volunteers were busy this month with several exciting events. Tags Dinner (November 16)

TAGS hosted its volunteers and supporters on Saturday, November 16th for a dinner to celebrate its 26th year serving the Durham Region community. A silent auction was held which raised over $1,000 for the organization.
A big congratulations goes out to the volunteers who were recognized at the dinner! We had 41 "One Year" milestone achievers, two "Five Year" keeners, and FOUR volunteers who were honoured for reaching the 10 year milestone. It was a very inspiring night, thank you to all of our volunteers for their contribution to TAGS, we couldn't do it without you! 

10 Years with TAGS! 
Photo credit: Heather Harton

The festivities were capped off with a slideshow of all of the dogs adopted in 2012 and 2013, bringing back memories of some of the lives TAGS has managed to improve and save in the past two years. 

UOIT Puppy Room (November 20)

What an uplifting day! Quincy, Jasper, Snoopy, Roxy, Sheldon and Biscotti were dispatched to the UOIT campus to bring smiles to stressed out students as they prepare for their exams.
Snoopy, a 9-month-old Dalmation mix was the most energetic dog to come out to play, while Sheldon, a Chihuahua mix and Biscotti, a Cocker Spaniel/Hound, preferred to win hearts by cuddling up to students.

Biscotti working the crowd.
Photo credit: Heather Harton

TAGS also visited the UOIT and Durham College campus earlier this year. Another visit is planned for early 2014.

Pet First Aid (November 24)

This course was taught by veterinarian Dr. Tanya Varley, or Dr. Tanya as she prefers to be called.

Participants learned:

-How to correctly bandage a wound on the leg, using gauze and sticky vet tape
-What key items to have on hand in a Pet First Aid Kit
-How to correctly administer CPR using compressions and breaths for small and large dogs and cats
-What human medications can be used for treatment of some animal ailments & which ones NOT to use
-What human food can be given to our pets to cure an upset tummy and which ones NEVER to give
-Having the knowledge and the confidence to treat a sick or injured pet and when to go to the vet

Oliver's mom learned how to bandage a wound.
Photo credit: Julie White

Needless to say, a broad range of subjects were covered throughout the day. Dr. Tanya answered any and all questions directed at her, which added to the value of the session by far. It was also interesting to learn her perspective on when you need to go to the vet versus knowing when it may not be necessary. This distinction is not always clear. We were also able to discuss more intense subjects such as dealing with an emergency situation in the event a veterinarian was not easily accessible. It was stressed by Dr. Tanya that it is an owner's responsibility to avoid unsafe situations: there is a fine line between letting your dog enjoy itself, and knowing when it is a good idea to stop an activity when it could be unsafe or dangerous.

Adoptions
November was also a very busy month for adoptions! Our adoption committee has been very busy these past few weeks reviewing applications, scheduling home visits, and walking potential new adopters through our adoption process. We'll reveal the adoptions on TAGS Tails this upcoming Monday, December 2. 

New Arrivals

Learn more about these dogs on our adoptions page.

This post was written by Nick.

Wordless Wednesday: I'm a Goat!

Mulligan was being cheeky at PetSmart Whitby last weekend.

He decided to channel his inner goat and climb on his foster mom!

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What Blossom's "Gotcha Day" Showed Me

Woof!

I'm Snoopy and I am new to TAGS -- so new that I just got sprung from the pound on the weekend! At first I just thought I was going out for a walk, but then I got to go on a car ride! After my car ride I had a check-up, a bath, and got to go pick out a new toy at PetSmart. Along the way I got to sniff and lick so many great people. I really was expecting to go back to my cage after all of the excitement, but instead I got the best surprise of all...

...I have a foster home! No more pound life for me! This means that I get to run, play and hang out with other dogs and cuddle up with nice people. It's all been very exciting!

Just chillin' at my new foster home. 

Oops. Just had a bath and already dirty again.
At least I look more like my Dalmation side this way! 

That's me with my new toy in the car on the way "home."
I was pooped after all of the excitement!

At my foster home I live with two dogs named Chappie and Blossom. They tell me I am not the first "foster" brother they've had, and by now they know a bit about how things go. Apparently I will live here for a bit and then one day I will get my own family! I asked them how they know this for sure, and they told me that they went through it too, just last year.

Chappie telling me about being a foster dog. 

Chappie and Blossom are siblings who were rescued from a place called Kentucky in September of 2012. Their sister Azriel came with them too. They said life in Kentucky was no fun at all, but then they moved to Canada where they lived in a home with a few other dogs, like what I am doing now. As part of a foster dog's job, they had to go and hang out at pet stores every so often to try and meet their new family. Chappie got adopted first, and about a month later his new parents decided they just had to reunite the dynamic duo, so Blossom got adopted too and the rest is history. 

Now, I didn't want to be rude, but their story seemed a bit far-fetched.  From my experience so far in life, a dog doesn't stay in one place for too long. And they definitely don't get to be part of a family.

However, I was proved wrong last night! My new foster family threw a party just for Blossom! They called it her "Gotcha Day." I learned that humans who own rescue dogs celebrate the day they adopted their new furry friend because they don't know when their real birthday is.

Happy 1st Gotcha Day to Blossom!
(that's me in the bottom left)

Hearing them all talk about how happy they were to have Blossom in their lives for a whole year now really gave me hope. I can't wait to get adopted so I can have my very own Gotcha Day.

Wish me luck!

- Snoopy 

Wordless Wednesday: What A Big Tongue You Have!

All the best to lick you with, my dear! 
Bessie tried out for the part of the Big Bad Wolf, but she didn't quite fit the part. 

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Wordless Wednesday: Two Peas In A Pod

Molly (adopted in August) and her foster sister
Willow (still available) are so close, it's difficult to tell them apart!

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Safety Tips for Spooky Times

In 10 short days from now, critters and monsters of all sorts will be roaming the streets and knocking on doors looking for their sugar fix. Whether you are planning to go all out for Hallowe’en with decorations, or if you just intend to have candy in a bowl at the door, if you are a pet owner, you should be aware of some potential dangers.

Bosco is glum. He wanted to be a clown
for Hallowe'en but the nose wouldn't fit.

Trick or Treating

Most dogs get pretty excited when they hear a knock at the door. To make sure they don’t run outside or become overwhelmed with the excitement of their first dinosaur sighting, consider putting up a gate so they can’t get too close to the trick or treaters. Alternatively, if you think they won’t become too anxious (some pups like to know what is going on), you can keep them in the basement or in a separate room. It is not recommended that they stay in the backyard. While most of the people out and about are just kids in costume, Hallowe’en night is also a time when vicious pranksters like to get their thrills. Keep your pets safe by having them inside, or with you, at all times. Similarly, if you have outdoor cats, it is highly recommended that you keep them indoors for several days before and after October 31.

If you are going trick or treating with the little ones and would like to bring your dog along, consider getting them a collar or leash with LED lights so they are easily spotted. Don’t forget treats and clean-up bags!

Hallowe’en Decorations and Costumes

 Josie didn't want to be anything scary,
so she's going as a ladybug.

Be aware of the decorations you are putting up around the inside and outside of the house. Wires and electrical decorations are dangerous for your pets because they may want to chew or pull on them. Blow-up decorations and plastic skeletons may seem like a bonus-size chew toy for your pet, but if they haven’t been made with pets in mind, they might be unsafe. Lastly, while we all love the glow of a Jack o’Lantern, the flickering lights and interesting smell are enough to make any animal curious. Avoid injury by using flame-less LED tea lights, which are available at stores like Walmart.

If you’re going to dress up your pet, try on their costume in advance. Make sure it doesn't itch or irritate them anywhere, and if they seem upset or restricted, a decorative bandana may be a better option.

Candy

After the trick or treating has come to an end, remember to keep the Hallowe’en haul out of your pets’ reach. Chocolate and candy should never be ingested by dogs and cats and the wrappers are very dangerous for them as well.

Have a safe and Happy Hallowe'en, everyone!  

This blog post was written with help from Pet Valu and PetMD.

Wordless Wednesday: I Want The Tooth!

Buffalo at Pet Valu.

"You can't handle the tooth!"

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Featured Adoptable Dog: Tucker

Tucker is a fun-loving, active dog who is always up for some playtime. He's been looking for a new home for a year now. Originally, TAGS rescued him from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky. He's an interesting mix—many people see spaniel, English springer spaniel, Australian shepherd or even Rottweiler in him. Tucker will make sure you won't forget him, not just by using his natural good looks but by showing off his goofy behaviour, as well. You just can't say no to him!

Tucker's Hobbies

Tucker's favourite pleasure is to play with and roll around in the garbage bags in the backyard. As much as his foster parents disapprove of this behaviour, Tucker always finds a way to sneak out to enjoy a session of filth and fun. That's what he calls it, as far as we know.

He has many toys, as well, that he likes to play with. Tucker is also a big fan of cuddling on the couch, where he can be close to people.

Tricks

He can "sit" and "lie down," and he is now learning to "stay."

Tucker gnawing on a bone.

Walks

He is getting very good at walking with the Gentle Leader. 

Friends

Tucker LOVES to be with people because he enjoys all the attention he can get. He gets along with other dogs well; however, sometimes he needs a little reminder about manners. Tucker likes children, but we would recommend he be in a home with older children, as he might accidentally knock the little ones down with his exuberance. 

Tucker is so handsome!

He doesn't particularly like thunder and lightning and usually hides somewhere until the storm goes away or wears a Thundershirt to help with his anxiety. 

Tucker loves to lie with his hind legs behind him, which his foster parents call "the rug." Overall, Tucker is a very active dog (but he has settled a bit lately) who requires a family that can put some time in with him and enforces clear rules and boundaries.

Tucker doing "the rug."

If you think Tucker may be the dog for you, don't hesitate to fill out an adoption application form so you can meet him! More details about him can be found on our website.
 

Tucker is a beautiful mix of several breeds.

Featured Adoptable Dog: Chaco

Chaco is a sweet giant with lots of love to give. He's been waiting for a forever home for nearly three years. He was found as a stray in Kentucky and was then placed in a pound. He was on death row when TAGS heard about him and rescued him. He knows that Canada will be the place where he will finally find a family who loves him unconditionally. 

Chaco's Hobbies

Chaco is the kind of dog who is quiet in the house when nothing is happening but will get super-excited if he detects that there is something going on. He likes to play with stuffed animals, squeaky toys and balls.

I want to play!

Tricks

Chaco knows how to "sit" and "stay."

Walks

An enthusiastic boy, Chaco tends to pull when on a walk, but his foster mom is working on his training him with a Gentle Leader. 

Friends

It's sunny!

Chaco is picky when it comes to choosing his buddies. He doesn't like busy, crowded dog parks, and he can be dominant with dogs that he doesn't yet know. But he does get along well with his foster siblings, Josie and Diesel.

His foster mom recommends for him a home with no other dogs, cats or small kids (ages 14+ would be preferable). As a high-energy dog, Chaco would be happiest as part of an active family. Please give Chaco a chance! He's got many wonderful qualities, but he often gets overlooked because of his fur colour (read more about black dog syndrome here) or his size.

If you think Chaco may be the dog for you, don't hesitate to fill out an adoption application form so you can meet him! More details about him can be found on our website.



      

Wordless Wednesday: Ohmmm...Ohmmm...

Scooter meditates while using a newly discovered
chin rest during a PetSmart shift. What a goof! 

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Wordless Wednesday: Hello? Hello?

"Hello? Hello? Trixie, sometimes I feel like you aren't even listening to me!" –Quinton

Poor Quinton. His foster sister Trixie is deaf! 

Trixie was adopted in December, but Quinton is still looking for a home. 

Are you interested in hearing what Quinton has to say? 

Fill out an adoption application and come meet him! 

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Featured Adoptable Dog: Max

When meeting Max, most people have to fight their urge to take him home and cuddle him all day. I myself was wondering if he'd just escaped from Build-a-Bear. He's been in the TAGS program since February. His current family had to make a hard decision to surrender him. They wanted the best for him, as they realized that they won't be able to take care of him anymore, due to unexpected family troubles.

Max sees a potential "petting assistant" in every person who approaches him. He will lick your hand, wag his tail and melt your heart. Not necessarily in that order! And after each petting session, he expects a cookie. You can't blame him—if you are good at something, you should never do it for free. And he is mighty good at being your teddy bear that came to life!

Max's Hobbies

He likes to chew on ropes or sticks and is used to roaming free in a big backyard. His favourite treats are apples and carrots. 

Tricks

He knows how to "sit" and "wait," and he'll do these with extra eagerness if you have a treat at hand.

Walks

He walks well on a leash. He's a medium- to high-energy dog, so the more you can exercise with him, the better he will feel. 

Friends

He gets excited when meeting new dogs, and he gets along with all of them, thanks to his calm and friendly nature. Max is always trying to win cats' hearts, but they don't appreciate his efforts at playing. Max is also very good with children. 

Overall, he is a laid-back dog who will be happiest if you give him some belly rubs, treats and a nice walk outside. In exchange, he will always be there for you to cheer you up just by being cute and fluffy!

That's the spot!

He was falling asleep from all the rubbings!

If you think Max may be the dog for you, don't hesitate to fill out an adoption application form so that you can meet him at our dog park! More details about him can be found on our website.

Wordless Wednesday: 8...9...10! Ready or Not, Here I Come!

Oops, Izzy has the rules of hide-and-go-seek mixed up. She's hiding AND counting!
Come find her and give her a forever home today! 

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Wordless Wednesday: Max Is Having the Best Time Ever!

This is Max. He's adoptable from The Animal Guardian Society. Check out his bio or fill out an adoption application!

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Featured Adoptable Dog: Boomer

Boomer doesn't mind the snow.

Never Lose Anything Again

Are you sometimes forgetful? You don't remember where you left your keys or wallet? We have an excellent candidate for keeping things in order for you: Boomer! Boomer believes that once you've touched something and left it in a different spot than usual, he has to make it his personal assignment to bring it back to you a.s.a.p. Just remember to close the lid on the laundry bin because with Boomer around, your clothes may never get to the washing machine!

Boomer came into TAGS care a year and a half ago from a Kentucky pound (just like Dixie, our January dog). We think that this handsome fellow had to spend his days as a guard dog before he was found him and put in the pound. Miraculously, he didn't end up having food- or toy-guarding issues; all he has is a little suspicion when meeting strangers. He will quickly overcome this feeling, though, once he realizes that you're one of the "good guys." In fact, if you know that you'll be meeting Boomer, don't even bother washing your face that morning. He will do it for you. He won't even be ashamed of cleaning your ears, nose or mouth. What can I say? He's a perfectionist!

In view of these qualities, he considers himself somewhat of a polymath who has already mastered "the boomerang skill" and cleaning skills and also has significant experience in interior design. He might change the order of the pillows on your couch so that it's more comfortable (for him to sit on, that is).

C'mon, throw it already!

Boomer's Hobbies

Boomer's energy level is medium to high, so he'll definitely appreciate a nice, tiring afternoon at the dog park, chasing the ball (remember, he's a retrieving champion). He won't put up a fight if another dog gets to the ball first but will stay alert and grab the ball the minute the other dog drops it.

Tricks

Boomer knows the basics like "sit" or "paw." He won't mind a treat here and there, either. If you adopt him, the adoption fee will include an eight-week follow-up workshop, in which you can both learn more. Once you have gained Boomer's trust, he is all about you and really just appreciates any attention you give him.

Walks

Yes, that's the spot!

He walks nicely even without the Gentle Leader. At the beginning of a walk, he might pull a little bit out of excitement, but he will quickly adapt to your pace after that. 

Friends

Boomer is quite the ladies' man! He prefers the company of female dogs but doesn't mind males, either. He used to have some issues with fellow alpha males, but ever since one of our volunteers, Nick Iordanis, started training and socializing him, his dominance issues have been quickly fading away. It all comes down to his suspicion of anyone he doesn't know. He was probably an abandoned guard dog who is, in fact, now eager to learn proper social skills to fit in.

We recommend that Boomer go into a cat- and child-free environment so that he'll be able to get your full attention—although he views older children as people who could possibly throw his ball, and anyone who can do that for him he will love forever.

Boomer is all played out!

If you think Boomer may be the dog for you, don't hesitate to fill out an adoption application form so that you can meet him at our dog park!
Click on the icon below to like Boomer on Facebook: 

Watch Boomer fetching the ball in this video:

Petsmart Adoptathon!

Clockwise from top left: Balin, Noelle, Rocky and Derby (the smoocher!)

It's time for another TAGS Adoptathon at Petsmart! This weekend from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., come out to the Whitby Petsmart or the Oshawa Petsmart to support TAGS and (most importantly) to check out some amazing dogs.

Whitby Petsmart will be featuring Derby (noon-4, pictured above), Noelle (10-1, pictured above) and Amy (1-4) on Saturday.

Oshawa Petsmart will be featuring Bella (10-1) and Balin (1-4, pictured above)

On Sunday, Whitby Petsmart will be featuring Max (10-2) and Izzy (1-4), and Oshawa Petsmart will be featuring Noelle (10-1, pictured above) and Rocky (1-4, pictured above).

For more information on the dogs that will be featured on these days, please check out the TAGS website or Petfinder for their profiles.

Wordless Wednesday...Making New Friends

(Photo credit goes to Sawyer's foster mom, Courtney)

Sawyer is eager to make friends with the resident feline at his foster home, 

but it's hard to know if his adorable face works on cats the way it works on us. 

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