WSSTC Scottie Rescue Committee

Networking At Its Best

2009-12-19T21:37:00.000-08:00

On Wed November 11th, our network of four rescue groups picked up 6 Scotties from a commercial breeder. They were in very filthy condition. The dogs were divided between Aberdeen Scottish Terrier Rescue, Scottie Terrier Rescue Northwest, SPDR-Scottie Rescue, and WA State Scottish Terrier Club Rescue. We thought it was the best idea, as now all the dogs could have a one on one foster home and frankly, none of the organizations could take that big of a hit on their bank accounts!! The network came together in unison and the surrender went smoothly.

All 6 of the dogs were taken to the vet for vaccinations, any medical treatment needed, and appointments were made for spaying and neutering. One Scottie had a severe ear infection and probably hearing loss, another one had a growth and three were very under weight. The one Karin Parish took (we called her Scottie #5), had a rotting eye in the socket, teeth so infected that puss squirted out when the vet started to extract a tooth, and severe ear mites. Astonishingly, all dogs are adjusting well. It has been amazing to watch them evolve.

Thank you to Jon/Gail, Earlene, Barbara K, Michele M, Kaleen and our awesome Vets and groomers, who just dove in there to take care of these little orphans. It gives all of us involved in rescue such pride that we can all work together to do what is best for each Scottie in need. Truly, this is what rescue is all about!

Gwen's Fate

2009-03-22T15:47:00.000-07:00

My dear little Gwen's journey in life has taken another turn! Some things in life happen for a reason; I think they call it fate.

After her ordeal of being lost for three weeks and miraculously returning to me, Gwen's adoptive mother found herself in a position of no longer being able to care for her. I had to step back and decide what was best for Gwennie. Although she was happy and secure living with me, my time is stretched with many obligations. I had to determine if I was doing right by her if I decided to keep her.

Gwen has come such a long ways since she came into rescue, but still needed some help learning to be a normal dog. Her potty training for one, was evolving but not constant. After seriously looking at the time I could devote to Gwennie, I decided she needed a family that could put her needs before anything else. That wasn't me, even though I wanted to watch over her the rest of her life.

After considering many people that wanted to adopt dear Gwen, rescue chose a family with three cats!! Gwen would be their only dog and become the princess of their home. The young couple are the most gentle, caring people I have met in a long time. They are great problem solvers and very dog savvy. They have had rescues before and were very ready to take on the process of helping Gwen evolve even farther along.

On Saturday, March 14th, Gwen met her new family. She took up to them immediately. At one point, we had a hard time getting her out of their truck to take pictures!!

After a week adjusting to her new home, we hear Gwen is doing well and the cat are working to accept that they now have a canine sister! Her new mom says she is everything she wanted in a dog and adores her. She has already gone for walk in the park and a play date has been made with a friend's Beagle.

With all the plans the new family has for Gwennie, I am hoping she will become a social butterfly and not live her life out as the "Queen of the Couch" as she probably would have here with me. Although I miss her terribly, I am happy for Gwen and feel so fortune to have found this wonderful home for her. Sometimes, you just can't change fate!!

Finding Her Way Home

2009-01-26T06:52:00.000-08:00

Being a foster mom has been more rewarding than I had ever imagined. One special case for me was Gwen, or Gwennie as I called her. You might remember her as the little Scottie girl that had lived all her life in a basement and was used for breeding.

Gwennie was at least five years old when she came into rescue. Being exposed to the world outside her “basement” was terrifying for her. All of a sudden her eyes had to focus in daylight, her ears heard many scary noises unique to the outdoors and her skin felt rain and wind for the first time. If that wasn’t bad enough, she found herself in the mist of the routine of a busy household. Her rapidly expanding horizons put her on sensory overload and all she could do was stare off into space.

Two other foster moms had helped care for Gwen by the time she came to live at my home. She no longer constantly quivered with fear and was now able to control her bowels when she encountered a fearful situation. But when you looked into her sad little eyes, there was no connection to the life that was going on around her. Seeing such an empty shell of a dog, especially a breed that is so full of life, was heartbreaking.

Gwen took up residence on my couch, feeling safe and secure in her “spot”. She had a bird’s eye view of all that went on with me, her new foster dad and two Scottie brothers. In the six months she spent with us, she gradually started to learn to trust people but seldom ventured very far away from her “spot”. Her potty training went well as long as I let her know when it was time to go outside. If I forgot or misjudged her signs, she reverted back to using the “basement”, as I called our tile floor!

When I realized I didn’t have the time it took to help Gwennie progress any farther along, it was time to look for her adoptive family. A wonderful lady applied, expressing she wanted to be able to change the void look in Gwen’s eyes. She had not had a dog in many years and felt it was time to give her love to a dog in need. I was happy that Gwen had found someone willing to devote their time to her many needs, but also felt the pain of letting go. Needless to say, that “spot” on my couch looked so empty after Gwen was adopted. I so missed seeing that sweet little face look to me for answers about the new life she was experiencing.

Months went by for Gwen and her new family. She continued to become more of a real dog. She was even blessed with two brothers, a Chihuahua puppy and a cat named Jack. Life was good and she was growing into her own identity. Unbeknownst to her new owner, she was even developing her Scottie instincts. Normally this would have been a good thing, but one night this December it turned out to be devastating to her new family and all of us that knew and loved Gwennie. She was taken outside for her last potty before bedtime and disappeared from the face of the earth. Nothing was different that night from Gwen’s normal routine. She pottied at her mom’s feet and while her mom watched for her Chihuahua brother to take care of his business, Gwen slipped off. Gwennie’s Scottie nose must have picked up a sent in the yard and she escaped in the darkness.

Her new family stayed up all night looking for her. All inquiries to local shelters, vets and pet shops came up empty. Ads were placed, posters hung and no one had seen or heard of Gwen. To complicate matters, snow began to fall and single digit temperatures set in. When I was alerted to Gwennie’s disappearance, it was so hard to have any hope that she could survive in the conditions I knew she would have to endure.

Time past and no word of dear Gwennie. There was more snow and cold weather. My heart broke knowing Gwen hadn’t received all the time she needed to become a complete dog, especially since she had come such a long ways. How would I put closure to my grief, not knowing exactly what happened to her? Would this misfortune make it difficult for me to continue fostering for rescue or could I ever feel the same gratification again? Being in the midst of the holiday season, I had to move on and get through my responsibilities. At one point, someone thought they may have seen Gwen in a nearby town at the local pet store. A couple with a Scottie girl about Gwen’s age were buying things she would have needed, but it turned out not to be our dear little girl.

Somewhere deep in my being, Gwen was still with me. I told myself it was because her mystery ended unsolved, and after all, she would always be with me in my fondest memories of the Scotties I had fostered. During the third week of her disappearance, I found out why Gwennie still felt so much a part of my life. Little did I know, a message on my answer machine would mend my broken heart. All I remember hearing was “Gwen is home!!!” It turned out that two men saw her running around and chased her for two days. They finally cornered her in a snow bank and were able to catch her! The men commented on how fast she could run! Fortunately, she still had on her collar and tags, so the men were able to get in touch with her mom and let her know she was safe. She was only about a mile and a half from home!!

Even though this news was nothing short of a miracle to me, the story wasn’t at its end. Gwen’s new mom had gone to be with her daughter and new grandbaby. She was a six hour drive from home, on good roads, anything but what we were experiencing at the time! Gwen was in the care of her husband that has never owned a dog in his life. He found himself overwhelmed with her care and needs. Again, I felt Gwen needed me to be there for her.

At the same time of Gwen’s return, another rescue Scottie boy needed to be transferred to the west side of Washington. It turned out he was only 13 miles from Gwen! Arrangements were made for Gwen’s unprepared dad to pick up this sweet little boy and meet Kaleen (our rescue committee coordinator) and me half way in between Yakima and Idaho. As Gwen’s new mom related, Gwen’s dad was doing a “happy dance” in the snow! Needless to say, I was elated to have Gwennie come back home until the roads cleared so her mom could come get her.

Some things never change. The minute Gwennie crossed the threshold of our back door, she ran to her “spot” on the couch and looked at me as if to say…………”I’m home!!” My eyes filled with tears, my heart burst with joy and I slept better that night than I had for weeks. It was the best Christmas gift I could have ever hoped for. I would have never dreamed in a hundred years, I would get my wish and see my little Scottie girl under my Christmas tree………..so to speak!! Overnight, the holidays completely changed for me. I went from being depressingly sad, to once again feeling the joy of being a foster mom. There was no doubt I would continue on with rescue and fostering. How could I not be there for the next little Scottie to come along with a story as sad as dear little Gwennie’s? It was a long, frantic ordeal for us all that grew to love Gwen, but in the end, she used her newly found Scottie instincts to find her way home. Life is once again, so very good!!

PS…………we will never know what Gwen went through in the three weeks that she was gone. She was no worse for wear upon her return, other than losing some weight and some scabs on her nose from probably digging in the snow. I think we will all have to agree that Gwennie is ever much a Scottie diehard as any other Scottie that had always known the comforts of having a family to love and care for them.
PSS…………Another Christmas gift was given to me when I realized Gwennie no longer has that empty and unconnected look in her eyes!! Life is not only good, it can be a miracle at times!!

Skye is Ready to be Spayed

2008-08-28T06:41:00.000-07:00

Skye will be spayed this Friday, August 29th. She will be 6 months old on Sept. 3. She has come a long way in improving her heart condition. For anyone who has held her before and after surgery, they can attest to the miraculous improvement.

Skye is picking up speed as she grows. On walks she still needs corrections. Chasing or barking at everything is not the way to go on a leisurely walk. You have to love that Scottie attitude!

Surgery Photos

2008-07-26T19:41:00.001-07:00

Here are a few photos from Skye's surgery

Post Surgery for Skye

2008-07-20T18:21:00.001-07:00

Veterinary Student Anne Gardner, Dr. Bordelon and Megan Bell, student
with Skye at WSU, not pictured Dr. Nelson

Skye returns to her foster home after a successful surgery to implant a device to close her PDA. Now that the implant is in place it must be given time to allow Skye's body to accept it. The doctors repeatedly stressed that Skye have total cage rest for 2 weeks. We believe that this will be more difficult than the surgery as Skye is ready to return to her adventures of puppyhood.

The Skye Team and other wonderful people at WSU Small Animal Veterinary Clinic have given so much of their time,skills,talent and love to this special Scottie. Skye had many admirers and was taken home over a weekend by a student so she could have more attention. We extend our deepest gratitude to the staff at the clinic for all the kindness and time spent to give Skye the chance she deserved.

At present Skye is pouting in her cage as she really wants to charge about the house and yard. We have to keep her from jumping so as to keep the implant in place. Her heart no longer sounds like a motor running with missing cylinders. She gets rechecked in two weeks and again after one month. If all is in place then she can be spayed and plans go forward to place this adorable girl.

Skye will be given time to be petted when she attends the Seattle Scottish Highland Festival on Sunday July 27. She will be with other Scotties in the Celtic Kennel. She was granted this time as long as she isn't allowed to run. Come on by and see this Scottie with all the attitude of a true terrier.

2008-07-16T13:59:00.000-07:00

2pm 7/16/08: Skye is awake after a successful surgery. She will be picked up and brought home for a two week recouperation. She is currently being "overly indulged" by all the residents at the University. She can't help it, she's enchanting.

Skye's surgery update

2008-07-15T15:30:00.001-07:00

Skye has been awaiting her surgery but not stuck in a cage. A student at WSU took her home to play with her dogs and family over the weekend. This is the typical life Skye has had at her foster home. She got to be her active puppy self. Skye is going in Tuesday for blood work but is returning to the student's home until Wednesday morning. Skye's surgery is scheduled for 10am. We will keep you posted.

Skye's Stays with WSU Family

2008-07-14T17:47:00.000-07:00

Skye's Surgery is Postponed!

2008-07-08T11:29:00.001-07:00

Baby Skye was taken to Washington State University on July 7th for her heart surgery. Much to our disappointment, two emergency surgeries bumped her out of line for having the surgery this week as scheduled. She will have hers on July 16th. The trip to WSU is very long and hot so with saddened hearts, we left Skye at the hospital. We were guaranteed that she would be well taken care of and would get lots of exercise, which she needs to be in tip top shape for the surgery. It was a hard decision but we knew she would be in safe hands. She was already giving everyone kisses and particularly liked the surgeon. After having her for a week, we are sure that the whole cardiac team will be so enamored with her, that she will get extra care during and after her procedure. So,...........we are back to the waiting game. Please check in with us as we will try to post any news we hear from the doctors at WSU.

The WSSTC- Rescue Committee

Growing Before our Eyes

2008-06-26T10:42:00.000-07:00

Little Skye is growing before our eyes and so much fun. She is a social butterfly and loves to take part in all activities.

Her foster daughter and friend thought she would make a good "ToTo", basket and all!!!

From ALL of us at Rescue that Love Skye

Lucky Skye

2008-06-26T10:32:00.000-07:00

Dear little Skye is a lucky girl. Her request for funds to enable her to have heart surgery has been fulfilled!!! Skye has an appointment on July 7th for a consultation with the cardiologist. She will stay at Washington State University until her surgery is performed later that week. Her post-op time is 3 to 5 days if all goes well.

Skye is growing nicely and now has reached 10 pounds. She will be a much better candidate for the surgery at her current weight. She still is her spunky and bossy little self, so we are hoping this Scottie attitude helps her through the surgery and recovery.

To all of you that donated so generously to Skye's fund, we can't thank you enough. Our appeal for financial help shows that there are a lot of very compassionate people in this world!! Thank you also for all the well wishes and offers to help care for Skye.

We will keep you posted on her surgery and recovery. With the money in hand that she needs for the surgery, all she needs now is your prayers for a successful procedure and fast recovery. Thanks again for ALL your donations that give Skye a chance at a normal life.

2008-06-13T05:51:00.000-07:00

Good Day,

Today Skye turned 3 months old. It was time to put on the leash and head out. She went along with the others and kept up the pace. As we walked along she took in all the new sights and smells.
Our trail takes us past 2 Labs who are in kennels. When they barked at us Skye immediately returned the challenge with her high pitched barks and a few growls for good measure. She let those Labs know that a Scottie was walking past and they should behave. Then one Lab jumped up on the side of its kennel and barked. She hastily retreated behind the boys and barked looking out from under their legs. She is pure Scottie in all her actions.
We went past some gopher holes that had to be sniffed by all. She took her turn and got her nose full of dirt before she sneezed. She walked with her head and tail up the whole way.

Skye weighs 8.2 pounds and is closer to the goal of 10 pounds that will make surgery possible. Thank all of you for help to give Skye a long life.

Submitted by Kaleen McWilliams, foster home for Skye and the larger Scottie on the far right named Gilan

Skye needs your help!

2008-06-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

Skye came to us from a lady who had bought two Scotties from a not-so-great breeder in southeast Washington. The lady did not want 2 dogs but bought both seeing the condition they were living under. One dog was pregnant and the lady knew that situation. She did not know that 2 days later she would have 3 puppies. She agreed to sell the pups and give half the money to the breeder when she supplied the AKC papers. There was a third female Scottie, a red Wheaten still at the breeders house.

When she took the pups in for shots the vet said the female had a heart problem that would require an expensive surgery. The pup was acting fine but not as big as her 2 brothers. She contacted the breeder who told her to kill the pup. The lady couldn't. The breeder said to send the pup back and she would. That's when she called us.
I picked up Skye when she was 10 weeks old. Just by holding her you could feel her heart was not working right. An appointment was made at WSU. They told us that she had two problems. One, a PDA, could be fixed. The other could be managed with medication. She could live to be upwards of 10 years. This pup is so full of life so we are going to try. Our bill for the trip including gas was $400.00.

We quickly began fund raising. The PDA surgery could cost up to $2000. She goes for a recheck x-ray next Tuesday. We are getting a reduced rate at our local vet's office. It's the extras that add up.

In the meantime the mother of Skye was spayed yesterday and the other female the lady bought was spayed. Then the third female turned up with Scottie Rescue Northwest. She was bought by another lady who felt pity for the dog's state. "Lady", was too violent once she got her home. That dog is now spayed and she was Skye's grandmother. STRNW will place her with a home soon.

At present 3 Scotties were spayed and Skye is on medication to help reduce the work load on her heart.

Once we get to the amount needed we will stop asking for funds. We will keep an updated blog of her condition. We want to thank you for offering a donation to Skye but you need that money for the next rescue you will be getting. We have had more rescues in the past year and feel the trend will continue. Just knowing you care means a lot to our small rescue group. We will be at a local dog show this weekend asking for donations. We started early and will reach our goal.

We have to wait until Skye reaches an appropriate size for WSU to do the surgery. We have tentatively scheduled the surgery for sometime in July.