2008 Rescue Kerries Placed
Below are stories and updates on some of the Kerries placed by the Foundation
during 2008. 
indicates
a recent addition.
Index of 2008 Rescue Kerries
|
Rylee
Adopted in St. Paul, MN
Keegan, was Slipper, 4 year old female
Nadia Bourassa, Rescue Coordinator, Quebec
nadia_boubou@hotmail.com
Two
weeks ago [December 2007}, the Foundation received word that “Slipper”,
who was no longer useful as breeding stock, was dropped off at a shelter
in Escanaba, Michigan. Due to the diligence of our wonderful Kerry
volunteers, she made her way to Sudbury, Ontario where she is in foster
care.
Slipper was born 2/10/03 (though we don’t know if this is February
10th, or October 2nd). She was imported from Ireland and has had several
large litters of puppies.
Slipper is very friendly with adults and children. She will wrap her
“arms” around you for hugs. She is an excellent listener,
understanding “no” and down, so far. She has done very
well in her toilet training and does not mess in the house or her crate.
She
walks well on leash with a gentle leader. Slipper is microchipped,
vet checked, up to date on shots. As is typical with puppy mill dogs,
she does have tartar build-up on her teeth but appears healthy otherwise.
She is a small Kerry and definitely malnourished. Current weight is
24 lbs. She will need some healthy eating to put some weight on.....she
loves chicken!
Slipper does not like all dogs. She has shown aggression to other
female dogs she has met, but she has also socialized well with dogs at the
shelter and in her foster home. Because of this potential difficulty,
we recommend Slipper only go to a home with no other dogs and with an experienced
dog owner. With obedience training and bonding with a real family,
Slipper will surely make an excellent pet. This little girl deserves
to live “happily ever after”.
On February 2, 2008 Slipper moved to her new home in Mississauga, Ontario with Jill Macdonald & Ryan Richardson.
From: Jill Macdonald [mailto:jillmac66@hotmail.com]
Sent: March-02-08 7:07 PM
Subject: RE: Keegan
It started out a little loud...she barked, barked, barked at the other
dogs in the class for about 5 minutes, then the instructor showed us how
to show her that's not allowed and then she stopped. But, I do have to
say she didn't try to nip/bite anyone or dog in the class By the end she
was pretty tired-she would lay down instead of sit when we said 'sit'
. She was probably a bit stressed as well, the poor thing. SHe's not really
food motivated, so trying to give her a treat at the class was useless.
That could have been because it was so new as well though.
We went to Pet Valu today and bought her a more effective collar for the class. She was very good in the store-the owners have a very well behaved Boxer that was sleeping in the store and she only barked at him for a couple of seconds and stopped when I said so. The harness that Barb suggested we buy is fine for times if we have to pick her up in a hurry, but not so great to corrections.
All the best,
Jill
From:
Jill Macdonald [mailto:jillmac66@hotmail.com]
Sent: March-22-08 11:07 AM
Subject: RE: Keegan
Hi.
[Keegan] 'graduated' from the class I wrote about and continues to do very well. She's just such a lovable dog!
Jill
Madison, 4 year old female
Was fostered in Connecticut
Rescue Coordinator: Tracey Fulmer (t_fulmer@yahoo.com).
Joy (renamed Madison) is a 4 year old survivor – she was rescued
from an Amish puppy mill with her Kerry spirit very much in tact –
tail up and full of herself. Joy is being fostered in Connecticut and
has quickly learned the joys of freedom. She is pretty well house trained,
preferring to do her business outside. Not surprisingly, she doesn’t
love her crate, especially when somebody’s in the house -- some
food goes a long way toward helping her overcome her objections.
Joy
is a bit skittish in new situations, since she hadn’t been exposed
to normal life until a few weeks ago. She warms up quickly to women, but
needs some time and patience (and treats) with men. When visiting family
during the holidays, she was initially jumpy and afraid but settled down
within 20 minutes and approached the unfamiliar adults. While being skittish
is typical of puppy mill survivors, Joy has a great “bounce back”
after an initial fright, especially when given proper reinforcement for
being brave. Turkey, cheese, chicken or simple praise – she loves
it all!
Joy
could be placed with dog-savvy children 8 years or older, as she is good
with her human foster pals (ages 8 and 10). However, adults should be
her dog only walkers. She walks well on a leash although can go a bit
nutty, barking and dancing around, when seeing other dogs and she is also
an expert at slipping her collar, so a harness should be used for leash
walking. She needs some work on calming down when seeing other dogs and
you can get her attention, so this is something that should be fixable
with training. Her wonderful foster family is taking her to obedience
lessons.
She
is selective with the dogs she likes and would probably be happiest as
the only dog in the house. If placed with another dog, it would need to
be in the home of experienced dog owners and only after a meeting to ensure
the dogs are compatible. A fully fenced yard is required.
Up to date on shots, weighing in at 28 lbs (not underweight) and responding
to treatment for ear and eye infections, Joy is coming along nicely. She
will be spayed shortly, prior to her placement. Joy will bring exactly
that – lots of joy – to her new, very lucky family.
31 Dec 07
I'm thrilled to report that Joy in CT was adopted by an experienced Kerry family in NH. She greeted each family member with curiousity and kisses and was busy exploring the house when I checked in on them last night. Joy was reactive to some dogs so I was looking for a home with experience in managing dog aggression, which thankfully was found. I think Joy will love being doted upon as the only dog.
Tracey Fulmer
22-Feb-08
From: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
Subject: [KBL] Adoption Announcements
Date: March 2, 2008 7:37:28 AM PST
To: KERRYBLUES-L@APPLE.EASE.LSOFT.COM
[...]
I am delighted to share the news that THREE of our rescues were placed this week.
Two female siblings who suffered through 4 long years in a midwest puppy mill arrived in their adoptive homes -- one in New Hampshire and the other in Pennsylvania. While both dogs were named Joy by the mill -- rather ironic since they had little joy in their lives until they were sprung -- they now share names of Manhattan Avenues: Madison and Lexie (short for Lexington).
[...]
Madison had a rather lengthy stay in foster care as she is reactive to other dogs, thus she needed an experienced family with the skill and will to manage that, plus she came into season right after we got her. Rest assured she would have been bred by the mill if she had come into season in that pit: a bitch in season means positive cash flow on the horizon. She was placed in a wonderful home in NH who had no qualms about dog aggression, having recently lost their dog aggressive Kerry to cancer. Reports are that she gave Kerry "eye socket" kisses during introductions and is quickly settling in with her new family. An ENORMOUS THANK YOU TO FOSTER KATHY FREEMAN and her family, who patiently worked with Madison by taking to obedience classes, waiting to have her spayed and spotting her dry eye condition that is now being treated. Kathy needed to keep Madison separated from her dogs, which takes a lot of mental management.
[...]
Lexie, now Joy
From: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
Subject: [KBL] Adoption Announcements
Date: March 2, 2008 7:37:28 AM PST
To: KERRYBLUES-L@APPLE.EASE.LSOFT.COM
[...]
I am delighted to share the news that THREE of our rescues were placed this week.
Two female siblings who suffered through 4 long years in a midwest puppy mill arrived in their adoptive homes -- one in New Hampshire and the other in Pennsylvania. While both dogs were named Joy by the mill -- rather ironic since they had little joy in their lives until they were sprung -- they now share names of Manhattan Avenues: Madison and Lexie (short for Lexington).
[...]
Lexie was transferred to her adopters yesterday, with another HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO HOLLY MONAHAN, who convinced a friend to drive for several hours in a snow storm to assist with the transport. Lexie did not have the dog aggression issues of her sister and was placed with a wonderful Kerry-experienced family who are previous adopters from the Foundation -- they adopted Trooper in 2004. Thankfully, Holly didn't act on her impulse to abscond with the little darlin'! As of this morning, Lexie and Trooper were successful co-conspirators in tugging apart a stuffed toy and happily shared the de-stuffing ritual.
[...]
From: t_fulmer@yahoo.com
Subject: Lexie Pics for the website
Date: March 13, 2008 2:33:37 PM PDT
This is the female rescued from a mill and adopted by Eric Stahley and family.
Lexie playing with Trooper, another KBTF rescue Kerry.
Lexie (left), with Trooper.
Sullivan, 4.5 year old male
Fostered in Massachusetts
Rescue Coordinator: Tracey Fulmer (t_fulmer@yahoo.com)
Sullivan's original name was Scalawag.
Scally, short for Scalawag, is a 4.5 year old, 38 lb. male Kerry. His story is a sad one – the Foundation found him advertised by his owner as needing a home. When our volunteer picked him up, he found a Kerry in desperate need with a horrible flea infestation and hair loss, a staph infection, skin and bones and running a fever. The Foundation stepped in to help Scally none too soon. After a month in loving foster care, he has turned around completely and is now a happy, healthy, delightful, charming Kerry. His coat was shaved to help his skin heal, but that will grow back. Thankfully, his Kerry spirit bounced back quickly.
Scally is good with other dogs and has been running around with male and
female foster siblings, playing with a 4 month old male puppy and sharing
toys. Like any Kerry, we won’t back down from a fight but he will
easily co-exist with a female assuming the owners are terrier experienced
(and don’t take anything for granted). Although a bit guarded and
timid with men at first, he quickly developed a lovely bond with his foster
dad. He's particularly fond of having his belly rubbed and scratched.
His foster home glows that Scally is simply a wonderful Kerry.
Scally is housetrained, crate trained and recently neutered. Like all
of our rescues, we are looking for a fantastic home for this boy –
one where he’ll have the human companionship he craves during the
day and perhaps a female dog to pal around with. He will soak up all the
attention you can give him. Children over 12 who respect dogs would be
fine. A fenced in yard is a must. Scally is located in Oklahoma, so homes
within driving distance will be given preference, but we will consider
flying him home at the adopter’s expense.
10-Oct-07
8-Jan-08 update by Tracey Fulmer:
Scally
was renamed Sully for Sullivan.
I was thrilled to learn that Sully is clicker savvy. He
was clearly clicker trained by his previous owner. He has been taught
to sit and "target" (touch your hand) when asked. We've started
on some basic agility and this boy learns FAST and is very hungry to learn.
He could make a wonderful agility partner for the right owner.
Sullivan, or Sully, is a stunning 5 year old neutered male Kerry Blue
Terrier with a lovely pedigree (mostly Louisburgh). He is being fostered
in MA. Sully was bred in Hungary, imported to the US as a puppy, spent
a year in a puppy mill and then was purchased as a pet. Although we don’t
know much about his past four years, we do know somebody invested a lot
of time training him. He has lovely manners, knows basic commands, walks
beautifully on a leash -- sitting and looking at you when you stop --
and is ever so happy to please his human. He’s perfectly housetrained
and loves his crate. We were also told he loves cats, although that hasn't
been tested.
Besides being beautiful, this boy is strong and healthy, smart as a whip,
has wonderful attention and eye contact and is incredibly happy, especially
when he knows you’re going for walkies. 
Pull
out that leash and you've never met a happier dog! I taught him to jump
a hurdle, go over the A-frame and through a tunnel in just a few tries.
(He's very motivated by that clicker.) He gets along well with dogs when
he’s been properly introduced, is not dominant nor does he have
any food issues. And his eyes would melt the hardest heart. He's an absolute
delight.
Mr Sully needs a very special home to work on his fear issues. He needs
a job -- obedience or agilty -- to keep his mind occupied and to build
his confidence. He bonds extremely quickly and closely with his humans
and needs a very committed owner to modify his reaction to new people,
e.g., when somebody comes to the house or when somebody approaches you.
This will require lots of controlled socialization with lots of positive
reinforcement. In the short time his foster home has been working with
him, he’s already made dramatic improvements and is very manageable.
This
boy WANTS to do the right thing and needs owners who will help him get
there. This is not a quick fix, but one that will be rewarded for years
to come. I have never met a Kerry Blue as smart and devoted as Mr. Sullivan.
He's very, very special (but don't tell my Kerries I said that!).
We will only consider experienced dog owners who are interested in and
committed to working with Sully to modify his behavior using positive
clicker training method. The "nothing in life is free" approach
was recommended by the behaviorist who evaluated him. An adult-only home
and a fenced yard is a must as he loves to run at top speed. Another dog
– a female who is outgoing – would go a long way toward showing
him there is nothing to fear in meeting strangers (especially when they
have cookies.)
8-Jan-08
From: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
Subject: [KBL] Breeders Beware
Date: February 2, 2008 6:44:21 AM PST
I need to share Sullivan and Reilly's story in the hopes
that by telling it, other purebred pups won't be dealt the same fate.
I am currently fostering a beautiful, extremely bright, very special Kerry
boy named Sullivan. He's an incredibly happy Kerry, but every once in
a while, his eyes are so sad, unsure and fearful. He didn't start out
that way.
Sullivan and his littermate Reilly had the best start in life -- lovely sire and dam with fabulous pedigrees on both sides and a reputable breeder in Eastern Europe who placed the pups on contract. The sire competed in agility. At three months of age, two male pups were sold to a nice family with kids who came and visited the pups a few times. The breeder kept in touch with the new owners until a year after the sale, when he found out their phone number had changed. He never heard from them again until recently, and then he learned he'd been duped. The "nice family" was actually working for an Eastern European puppy broker. At seven months, the pups were transported to a US puppy mill where their pedigrees would fetch high stud fees. Their lives had changed forever.
Three years pass and the Foundation picked up one of the male pups at the Shelbina auction. Reilly was an exceedingly handsome but terribly scared Kerry who Mimi Wight and I fell in love with. At that auction, the bidding for all the Kerries was extremely low, so low that they were originally pulled off the auction block. When Reilly was put on the table, his bid price was also low, so low that the puppy miller refused to sell him at the auctioned price -- his pedigree was far too valuable. We had to negotiate for him separately. Reilly was placed in a family that stuck with him and worked through his fear issues.
Another year passes and the other male littermate turned up in a local Missouri paper as a "house dog" who needed a new home. (Judith Bruno spotted him while scanning internet sites for Kerries.) Sully was purchased for $2000 in 2003 at a dog auction by a woman in MO who wanted a pet (and probably the stud fees to go along with him). It's amazing how the Kerry market dropped off in a few short years, once the Mick phenomenon died out. But that isn't the reason for this story.
I'm sharing this in hopes that breeders will be extra cautious when placing pups, here in the US and especially in the Eastern European countries where the price of young, quality breeding stock could pay the rent. This is not just happening with Kerries as other somewhat rare breeds are experiencing the same problem. People are willing to pose as "nice families" to essentially steal the dogs. And unfortunately, this isn't just an Eastern European problem. We have heard of unscrupulous puppy millers in the US trying to appear legitimate -- showing one dog in conformation (usually a low maintenance, under the radar, toy breed) in an effort to secure the trust of the reputable breeder community. In fact, a well known terrier breeder was recently duped by such a puppy buyer. I am hoping this story will be shared with the Kerry breeding community across the globe, and that they will tell their fellow breeders in their countries to be very, very cautious when placing pups.
Google the phone numbers and e-mail addresses of potential buyers. If nothing pops up, or there's conflicting information, be suspicious. Leverage the breeder networks to perform home visits to see first hand where the pup will be living. And if a European breeder is sending any Kerry pups to the US, they should ask for help from the Foundation or Kerry club members to check out the buyers in person and ensure their pups won't suffer the same miserable, horrible puppy mill tragedy that Reilly and Sully did. Their story could possibly have been prevented by erring on the side of caution, knowing that the puppy farmers will lie, cheat and steal to get a well bred pup. The purebred dog has become a very lucrative business.
I see such an awesome ghost of a Kerry in Sully and will forever wonder what he would have been if he hadn't landed in the wrong hands. What a shame, what a shame, what a shame.
Tracey Fulmer in Newton, MA
From: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
Subject: [KBL] Adoption Announcements
Date: March 2, 2008 7:37:28 AM PST
To: KERRYBLUES-L@APPLE.EASE.LSOFT.COM
[...]
My own foster, Sullivan, or SullyBeans as I call the goofball, was placed in the dream home we were waiting for. A third HUGE THANK YOU TO AGATHA HUGHES, who spent a weekend day driving to the prospective adoptive home for a meet and greet with her "ambassadors of charm" (Agatha's own Ricky and Lily). The family decided that Kerries were the breed for them, having recently lost their beloved Bouvier. Sullivan's situation was unique as he had fear issues, requiring an adult only home that wanted a "project". He landed in a close knit family of dog-savvy dog lovers who are committed to rescue and behavioral rehab and where Sully will continue with the training he needs and craves. The adopters drove up from NJ to spend the weekend in Boston, allowing Sully to meet them at his own pace. Thankfully, Sullivan is incredibly charming himself and wicked smaaht (as they say in Boston) and I will anxiously wait to hear how he's progressing.
Stories like Sullivan's are truly gut wrenching -- this dog came from top Kerry lines and landed in a mill when he was a puppy. On his breeder's website, there is a video of happy, playful Kerry pups romping in the yard and I will forever wonder what Sully would have been like had his breeder not been so careless with his, and his brother, Reilly's, placement. Hopefully tragic stories like Sully's, Reilly's, Gigolo's (Great Escape rescue) and countless other unfortunates of countless other breeds has spread like wildfire across the European breeding community and will never be repeated.
While we can all celebrate in adoption successes, the bills for these rescues still need to be paid. Our adoption donations don't cover their expenses so it is up to the Kerry Community to foot the bill so we can continue our top notch rescue operations. The special needs dogs like Sully and the seniors like Andy are worth the extra expenses to ensure they will be forever loved and never discarded again.
In addition to donations, we can always use help with foster care, transport, meet and greet requests and all of the other components critical to a rescue operation. Without each of these contributions -- no matter how large or how small -- the circle breaks and it's a Kerry that loses out.
Tracey Fulmer
KBTF Rescue Coordinator, Northeast
From: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
Subject: [KBL] Update on Sullivan - milestone achieved!
Date: September 5, 2008 1:18:48 PM PDT
I've been pinching myself all day. Mr Sullivan, a Kerry I fostered
for several months, fell in love with and placed last March, has graduated
from obedience school. From what I understand, this was a very challenging
obedience course, with one of the tasks requiring the dog to down/stay
50 ft away from the handler, then approach an object and down/stay within
inches of it.
Sullivan had spent his first few years in a puppy mill, having been imported from a lovely eastern European kennel who was duped into selling him and his littermate, Reilly, to a dog broker as a puppy. He had fear issues and needed the right owners who not only wanted a project but were willing and able to put the time into his training. This boy is very special to me -- he is smart as a whip but lacked confidence -- and although it took a while to find his "angels", come they eventually did. (They actually drove up from NJ in a snowstorm to spend the weekend in Boston with me and Sullivan to show how committed they were to his rehab.)
Here's a note I got today. As soon as I get the pictures, graduation cap and all, I will get them posted.
"I am so proud of Mr. Sullivan; he has done so well in training. When he graduated today I cried, they had to bring me tissues. He is such a delight, and has come so far. Everyone in the class was so happy for him, they just came up and hugged and kissed him. He was so proud of himself, waging his tail and looking right in my face."
God bless these lovely adopters for adoring this wonderful
gift of a Kerry!
Tracey in Newton, MA
KBTF Rescue Coordiantor, Northeast
From: anastajo@comcast.net
To: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Liberty & Sullivan :)
Date: Sat, 06 Dec 2008 18:53:42 +0000
Hi,
Sullivan continues to amaze us. He has adapted to having Jeff, Anita and Miss Liberty living with us unbelievably. This house if full of laugher 24/7. He is learning to play with his cong, and nylabone, still wants no part of a ball. We thought Liberty would be the dominate one, but they seem to share that spot. They just let each other know what is acceptable and move on. If Liberty is corrected by Jeff or Anita, Sully runs to her side and licks her face to reassure her that she is fine. The leather sofa in the sunroom is a perfect size for Sam, Sully, Liberty and me.
Sully is really my ray of Sunshine.
Jo Anastasi
Jim, 4 year old male
Was fostered in British Columbia
Rescue Coordinator: Linda grisley (lgrisley@shaw.ca)
Jim
is the sweetest 4 yr. old neutered male Kerry Blue rescued last December
in the “Merry Kerry Rescue”. He has been living with a family
on Vancouver Island, British Columbia and fits in very nicely with their
two Airedale females. As you can see from the pictures, this is a beautiful
Kerry boy!
Jim has grown up in a mill environment and, although he is self-assured
and non-aggressive, he does not know all the subtleties of being a house
dog.
Jim
is not toilet trained. His current family is working hard to teach him but
he does not understand yet. Although the current family will continue to
work with Jim on his toileting, they feel it would be to his benefit to
move to a home where the new owners would have the time and commitment to
help him through this problem.
Jim is a loving and friendly dog. He gets along well with other dogs and
both men and women. He needs to move to a home with a calm environment just
adults or with perhaps with older children who will provide him with the
attention and training he needs to settle into a home life. Preference will
be given to a home within driving distance.
Jan-08
From: lgrisley@SHAW.CA
Subject: Jim
Date: March 11, 2008 10:16:51 AM PDT
Whoopee! Jim is adopted!
Black Knight Jim of the Merry Kerry Rescue has been adored by everyone
who
met him on his way from the puppy mill to his new home in Sidney, B.C..
Jim is a 4 yr. old beautiful Kerry Blue who charmed all he met. His biggest
problem was toilet training. He just did not understand that there was a
place designated to go and it was not the chair of the man of the house!
Having spent his life in a mill, where toileting and eating and sleeping
was
all in one space, a new life in a house was a big pill to swallow. However,
his foster-to-adopt family, Verna & Doug, have persevered and with the
help
of a behaviourist, Jim has turned the corner.
It wasn't easy, though. Jim spent the first 6 weeks after his rescue with
our intrepid Nancy Joyce and her two Kerries, Quinn & Keely. He fit
in well
with her dogs and Nancy worked hard to toilet train Jim with some success
before he went to his foster-to-adopt home with Verna & Doug.
Verna & Doug had been waiting for a Kerry rescue match for over a year
and
were excited to finally receive Jim into their home. They also have 2
female Airedales with whom Jim fit very quickly and he was happy. But
because of the readjustment to this new home and the little time he had
had
with Nancy to reinforce the toileting, his problems reoccurred. In
addition, shortly after his arrival with Verna & Doug, Jim had to have
surgery to remove a large lump on his hip that affected/pulled on his leg
and at the same time he was neutered.
When we put Jim on to the web site for adoption, Verna & Doug were
frustrated and not sure that they would have the patience to get through.
Jim had been walked for hours but never relieved himself until he got back
to the house and used his crate or watered the furniture. He was just not
getting it! Periodically he would relieve himself through the banister of
the deck - that's some progress! But not enough.
Verna hired Penni, the behaviourist, who discovered two things about Jim
-
he does not like the rain (of which there is lots in BC!) and he liked
privacy for this toileting. Well, for crying out loud, that's pretty well
all it took! Armed with that knowledge and with some further recognition
of his feeding/toileting timing, Jim was given privacy from the other dogs
to do his business and a jacket to shield him from the rain... Jim was on
his way to success.
We are all extremely pleased for Verna, Doug & especially Jim. The
problems
that Jim has overcome are not unusual for rescue dogs. It takes special
people to take on their troubles. Adopters of rescue dogs require patience
in the extreme and the loving care to recognize that this dog is not trying
to be bad...the new lives to which they arrive are FULL of so many things
they do not understand and it takes time and so much work to help them
through.
All the very best to Jim in his new home.
Linda Grisley
Rescue Director - Canada
Gillighan - 4 month old male
Was fostered in Massachusetts
Rescue Coordinator: Tracey Fulmer, t_fulmer@yahoo.com
Gillighan (Irish for "little lad"), is a 4 month
old Kerry Blue Terrier puppy who was relinquished to the Kerry Foundation,
along with his mother, by an Amish puppy miller who realized there is no
market for Kerries. That means one less mill indiscriminately breeding Kerries
... and fewer Kerries landing in rescue.
Gillighan
is a typical adorable, bright, charming, loving Kerry puppy. He displayed
his Kerriness "right out of the gate". -- Gilly's a bold fellow
and a handsome lad to boot, currently a tall, lanky teenager, weighing 19
lbs, with a luxurious thick coat, and the most beautiful dark Irish eyes.
He'll leave the Kerry lasses swooning.
Gillighan loves the snow, is a great retriever, and loves all kinds of toys.
He's in foster care with a female Kerry whom he took to right away (see
picture). He has no issues with food, allowing the older Kerry girl to take
food away from him. Gully is currently living in a busy household, with
kids and visiting dogs, and lovin' every minute. He's gotta be in on ALL
the action -- a typical Kerry shadow, always at your heels. He rides well
in the car and is just learning to walk on a leash, which is coming along
nicely, although he prefers to "lead you" with the leash in his
mouth!
Mr.
Gillighan goes to his crate at night, lured in with a milk bone, sleeps
through the night, then trots right out in the morning to do his business
in the yard. Potty training is coming along -- the current schedule of going
outside at least every two hours is working nicely.
We are looking for a family where somebody is home during the day to give
him the companionship and mental stimulation he needs and to continue working
on his housetraining. Kids over 5 who respect dogs and a female canine companion
would be fine. A securely fenced yard is a must -- this guy's gotta run!
All Kerry Foundation rescues are required to attend obedience classes per
our adoption contract. As another contractual obligation of his adoption,
his new family will need to neuter him and submit a neuter certificate,
which has not been done yet due of his young age. Gilly is up to date on
his vacs, chipped, and ready for anything! He will be a fabulous best friend
for one lucky Kerry-loving family.
Gilligan was adopted on April 8, 2008.
Blu
by Tracey Fulmer
It's one of those calls you dread. A high kill shelter sending out an SOS to help an older Kerry turned in by his owner. After asking how much time the dog has, you start wondering how anybody could dump a dog they'd had for eight years in a place where he probably only had hours to live.
His name is Blu and thank goodness for the extremely organized pound in the DC area who called Foundation volunteer Shelley Kilcoyne. They had her name and the Foundation's information on file because Shelley has been on the Foundation's shelter scanning team for several years and had contacted this pound in the past.
Blu
was skinny as a rail at only 26 lbs, had ear and eye infections, a runny
nose and cough, tested positive for Lyme disease and was so matted he had
trouble eliminating -- obviously neglected for quite a while. He'd had a
benign growth removed by his previous owner, so at some point in his past,
somebody had cared about him. How could they just throw him away? Although
we were told by the shelter that he was very, very sweet, we're always super
cautious with a dog whose owner didn't care if it lived or died. But after
speaking with numerous shelter workers, the vet tech and reviewing the owner
turn-in information, we were certain that Blu deserved a second chance.
He was kissing everybody who met him and had not displayed an ounce of dog
aggression.
Pulling
shelter dogs takes a lot of desperate man hours. You need to act quickly
and drop everything -- time is the enemy of elderly dogs in pounds where
they are more susceptible to sickness and have little chance of being adopted.
Kerries found in shelters usually aren't located near any volunteers and
with a foster family chomping at the bit to help. So we start dialing in
desperation, hoping and pleading we'll get somebody to pull the dog and
hold it until we can find a foster home and coordinate the transport. As
luck would have it, Regina and Brian Corry in Arlington, VA are those special
"Kerry angels" who never say "no" to a Kerry in need.
One call to Regina and she was in touch with the shelter. Just a day later,
Blu was on his way to their safe, warm home. Yes, the Corry's have two Kerries
of their own, including Princess Jessie who can be selective with dog intruders.
But the Corry's knew they could manage a day or two of inconvenience --
a Kerry needed
them. (Turns out, Blu was the perfect house guest, which further confirmed
the Foundation's good diagnosis.)
Dianne Ewing quickly identified a foster home for Blu within hours of the initial SOS from the shelter. And again, luck was on Blu's side, as the foster home had family traveling north from Raleigh and could meet up with the Corrys that weekend. Yes, the Corrys not only picked up Blu and overnighted him, but also drove a few hours south to connect with the foster family. (Bless you, bless you, Regina and Brian!)
The only hitch in the whole process.....the foster family already had a female Kerry named Blue, so there might be confusion with the names! After several weeks in his foster home, Blu's temporary family could not part with such a wonderful Kerry and they have officially adopted him. And kept his name.
Below
are excerpts from the updates we received on Mr Blu and Ms Blue:
He's made himself quite lovable to the ladies in our home ....very attentive whereas our girl Blue is friendly but somewhat aloof. Boy Blu has gone through an incredible transformation considering the dog we picked up just 2 weeks ago and what he's like now. Very puppy like ... rambunctious ... loves a good romp outside ... retrieves the ball ... comes when called .... seems to just love living. Ears and eyes are clear ... coughing is almost gone and his nose is actually cold and wet now. I believe he's gained some weight and his coat is shiny and soft. No issues at the groomer ... the groomer couldn't believe we'd ever give him away. This guy's personality is definitely his best asset. He's just everybody's friend. There've been a few times where the single name is a problem but overall it's not a big deal. Interested friends and neighbors get a laugh upon hearing the single name situation we're dealing with.
He's a quick learner and can almost sit on command (with a treat of course) ...he watches our girl to see what's expected and you can almost see him figuring our desires out from what she does.
Girl and Boy Blu get along just fine ... there are absolutely no issues. Girl Blue had a doggy bone inside her Kong yesterday and wandered off to check on something, leaving the Kong behind. Boy Blu took over trying to get the bone out of the Kong. Girl Blue came back to find the Kong in Boy's possession. I thought "this could get ugly" ... picture Boy Blue on his belly chewing at the Kong. Girl Blue lays down in front of him and watches attentively. Boy Blu stops chewing and pushes the Kong over to girl with his nose .... very cute.
Aaahh, yet another happy ending and a long sigh of relief that another senior Kerry is safe. [...]
It's been a year when we've seen far more than the average number of senior Kerries in need: Andy and his sister Emma, Duffy, Blu, and Kevin. In addition, we've assisted numerous seniors by helping their owners find the breeder, including Mowgli, Lilly, Sapphire and Honey. I have a hunch this is just the tip of the iceberg, since the Kerries born during the "Mick" peak production era are aging, as are their owners.
We can ALWAYS use more help in pulling from shelters, overnighting, transporting and fostering. If you are interested in helping out in any capacity, please contact the Rescue Coordinator in your region so we can have your name and contact information at our fingertips when we start dialing in desperation. [If you can't help with the work, please consider a donation.]
Thank you to all involved with the story of Mr Blu. You saved a life and turned a neglected, throw away Kerry back into a puppy prince.
Tracey Fulmer
Rescue Coordinator, Northeast
From: my3kerries@comcast.net
Subject: News on Blu
Date: June 12, 2008 4:17:14 PM PDT
You may remember reading about Blu, the Kerry boy pulled from a shelter
who went to a foster home where there was already a girl, Blue. It looked
like he was doing well there but he started to exhibit separation anxiety,
which paired with carsickness and some changes in the dynamics of the foster
family as far as someone being home - began to demonstrate that he would
do better in another home.
You probably also remember reading Lorna Jennings note about losing Sky
and how Olivia (Livvy) was mourning for her buddy (not to mention Lorna
and John). Well, we solved several problems in one fell swoop by flying
Blu out to California. Blu tolerated the flight from Raleigh, NC to San
Francisco well, where I picked him up for the ride to Sacramento. A long
trip like this will frequently aid a carsick dog in getting over the malady
and so it seems, he did very well in the car.
Monday afternoon we arrived at Livvy's door in Sacramento and Blu marched
into the house like he owned it. Livvy immediately planted her nose in his
butt and followed him around the house and yard while he scoped out the
terrain. When John had to leave the house temporarily Blu followed him to
the door and as it closed barked indignantly as if to say "where are
you going without me?" after which he returned to surveying his domain.
Their home is one where someone is with the dogs 24/7. If the people aren't
home the dogs aren't either.
Since then I've heard from Lorna that Blu has settled in beautifully. He
manipulated her into feeding him roast beef and mashed potatoes with peas
for dinner the first night and then cheddar cheese and pancakes the next
morning. We've discussed that and she is making sure that he remembers that
his kibble is first, maybe with just a few small enticements.
We're looking forward to notes from Lorna on how the two Kerries are doing
and my guess is that this is going to be a very happy Kerry home for everyone.
Eileen Andrade
Rescue Coordinator for the Southwest
From: lornajennings2@YAHOO.COM
Subject: [KBL] Blu
Date: June 12, 2008 3:42:37 PM PDT
Dear Friends,
We welcomed Blu into our hearts and home on Monday, June 9 and oh what a treasure! We are so grateful to Brad and Heather for sending him to us. Livvy knew that the missing piece of the 'puzzle' had fallen into place!
Of course, our heartfelt thanks go to Eileen Andrade who brought Livvy to us and now Blu. Blu flew in (wonderfully well I am delighted to say) to SF via Continental Airlines and coincidentally, our grandson Brad flew in from AZ via United at approximately the same time and Eileen being the beautiful lady she is drove Brad home to Sacramento along with Blu!
When Eileen got Blu out of his crate and brought him into the house, John was speechless. It was like our beloved Sky had come back to us! Blu resembles Sky in so many ways, it is amazing! He is a delight and we fell in love with him on sight!
I know that Heather and Brad are missing Blu and they were perfect foster parents and I know that he is surely missing them but I think he knows that this is his forever home.
I know that Sky is smiling down at us and relieved that our darling Livvy has another 'brother'.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts Heather, Brad and Eileen
and of course The Kerry Blue Foundation for making this all possible.
John and Lorna Jennings, grandson Bradley, Livvy and Blu
(Sacramento, CA)
Kirby
by Laura Cocke
Our
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Lexi, reached her fifth birthday this February
and my furtive Internet searches for a reputable breeder's litter or a wonderful
rescue dog increased. I'd been hinting, mentioning, campaigning for a second
dog for years. Looking over those pages of dogs waiting to be adopted became
a bittersweet obsession. We'd met the beautiful Kerry Blues at Westminster,
and thought one would be a great companion for Lexi. Once we decided we
were up for an adoption adventure, we became nervous expectant parents.
Diane
Ewing told us that Agatha Hughes had six month old rescue Jumpin' Jack Flash
in Pennsylvania. The day we drove from D.C. to meet him it was pouring buckets
outside. The visibility was so awful I considered pulling over on I-95.
We made it to Agatha's and met this wonderful Kerry. He was beautiful, but
a bit of a blur. He was scared of us, scared of each motion, sound and new
sight. He crawled onto Agatha hoping he could escape our very presence.
When he met Lexi he was intrigued, but still confused and unsure. We crossed
our fingers and loaded 
him
into the car as the rain teemed down. As we drove in the rain and discussed
dozens of names, we passed Kirby Street in Philadelphia while hunting down
the requisite cheesesteaks. Kirby, our Kerry, had a name.
Back in D.C. (Arlington), Kirby and Lexi had the run of the yard. She doesn't really understand the thrill of a tennis ball, but we discovered Kirby likes to run around with one in his mouth. This is perfect because Lexi loves to chase him. They run in sync, bounding around the yard until one of the terriers makes a trademark terrier twist and the other stumbles to catch up. (Video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALqXjaBn1go )
We
brought them to our house in the country. It's got a field on a river. On
Lexi's first visit five years ago, she walked down to the dock and matter
of factly dove off the dock into the chilly spring water. She swam to shore
earning the nickname Lexminda the Brave. Kirby saw the water and I swear
I saw the spirit of some ancient (possibly Portugese) Water Dog spring forth
and in an instant, Kirby dove from the dock. He loved it. He wallowed in
it. He dove in over and over. Fear was a million miles away from this boy
for maybe the first time ever. 
This
summer I anticipate lots of beach towels being put to work to dry wavy black
fur.
Since Kirby came home, he's defeated the fear of stairs, sounds, cats, and cars. I've heard some Kerries are stingy with kisses but this weekend my mother said, "Are you going to let him kiss you all over like that?"
Kirby's still a little leery of men with deep voices, but he's making progress.
He loves running around the yard with an upside down frisbee obscuring his
view like I love chocolate cake. 
Every
time we look at Kirby and think of where he's been and his big bold plunge
into the river, we're so glad the Foundation, Diane and Agatha helped him
find his way home.
Andy - 10 year old male
Rescue Coordinator: Linda E.
Lee
In
mid-December, we learned about two 10 year old Kerries, Andy and Emma,
who had been taken to a shelter. The shelter called and asked for our
help, otherwise both Kerries would be euthanized. The shelter was beyond
capacity and when you are a 10 year old owner turn-in, you are the first
in line. Andy’s sister, Emma, has been placed in a wonderful home
where she’s getting the attention she craves along with lots of
loving. Now it’s Andy’s turn for the happily ever after.
We all know that Kerries are in their prime at 10 years old and some
very lucky adopter will be getting a fabulous companion in Andy.
The shelter got little information on the pair, other than they had been turned in because they kept bursting through their electric fence to go after other dogs. However, at the shelter, the temporary kennel and in the current foster home with several other dogs, Andy has not exhibited any dog aggression. Andy and Emma both are fine with people – after all, that’s the Kerry way.
Shortly
after being dumped at the shelter, Andy suffered from a bout of pneumonia
and we almost lost him. Thankfully, he received excellent veterinary
care and pulled through. Since he’s been in his foster home, he’s
sprung back to life. His foster home told us: “What an absolutely
sweet and gentle dog! His puppy side is now coming out and he is emerging
from his shell. Several weeks ago his future looked pretty bleak. He
now seems happy, healthy, and will soon be ready for his forever home.
He is just a great dog -- the most gentle imaginable.”
18-Feb-08
Sadly,
Andy has been diagnosed with lung cancer. After having communicated
with his Vet and his foster family, it is clear that Andy’s condition
is extremely serious. Should we go further with a CT scan to see if
the tumour might be operable? If it were, would we put Andy through
major surgery and all the ramifications when all the odds are against
him? If you know Andy’s story, you know how much he has been through.
He is an “old” ten year old. So, we have made a compassionate,
although difficult, decision . . . let Andy enjoy the rest of his days
in comfort, within a caring, loving, family environment. His foster
Dad and Mom are indeed Kerry angels! (I can’t express how fortunate
we are to have found this foster home for Andy!) The KBT Foundation
will support all the special care Andy needs to keep him happy and comfortable
for as long as is good for Andy.
I know Andy’s story has touched many people. Thanks
to all of you who have cared, sent messages, and/or donated
money to support Andy. I know many of us have shed tears for the
dear old fellow as well.
From: lgrisley@SHAW.CA
Subject: [KBL] Andy has passed away
Date: May 28, 2008 4:53:48 PM PDT
To: KERRYBLUES-L@APPLE.EASE.LSOFT.COM
It is with a very heavy heart that we announce the passing of Andy.
If youhave followed Andy's story, we did not place him for adoption
because we found he had lung cancer, so his foster home kindly agreed
to keep him until
his time came. It did not take long.
Following is the email received from his foster home:
Hello everyone, Andy is now at rest. He was our gentle Kerry Blue. We loved him very much but finally had to let him go. He will always be close to our hearts because he came to us out of the blue a Kerry Blue in need. It is difficult to type this but I must express our many thanks to all who sent well wishes and prayer to us concerning Andy. To know this boy was to love him.
Andy lost his appetite and started refusing water at times a while back so we had him in the hospital again for about three days rehydrating him. During that time we did more ultrasound and radiograph work. We also had to relieve his chest of fluid, some 300+ ML's. This helped him temporarily and I brought him home. That day he was thrilled to be home and was eating even to the point of accepting kibble from my hand. He had the habit of taking the food dropping it than picking it up and eating it like Andre' the Seal, this he would do with his favorite food Smelt so that was his nickname Andre'. At this time he even returned to his Kerry spin mode. He was very happy.
Andy's appetite was short lived and stopped entirely this weekend. The mass in his chest was just overcoming him. It was time to ease his burden so I took him into work with me today and Dr. Williamson along with Amber one of our Vet techs helped Andy easing him to his rest.
In our 15 years of rescuing and fostering dogs Andy is the first that we have failed to find a forever home... or was it. I don't know if we could have let him go even if he had survived.
Again many thanks to all of you for your thoughts and prayers of support. May God bless us all in this great work.
Andy with a lady bug on his nose.
Andy did find a forever home....he completed his life in the best care he could find and was truly loved and comforted until the end.
We cannot thank foster homes enough for the tremendously brave work they do. This is the axis on which our rescue work turns.
On behalf of Linda Lee, Rescue Coordinator, Midwest, who travelled this journey with Andy from the beginning,
Linda Grisley
28-May-08
Barney
Last Friday (June 13, 2008) evening I got a phone call from Tracey Fulmer alerting me to a Kerry in the shelter in Visalia, here in California. Looking at the posting on Petfinder there was no question at all that this was a Kerry boy. I started out at 9 pm that night frantically making phone calls to the few Kerry people in that area, after striking out on reaching either of the first two people I hit gold when I called Gary O'Neil - he was immediately "on the job". I called the shelter and left messages, also emailing them including a copy of the Foundation's non-profit certificate.
Early Saturday morning I was off to watch Riley and Bird run agility, but only with my trusty cell phone in hand. When the shelter opened at 9 am their phone was ringing. They were very nice and agreed to pull Barney from the trucks that were taking dogs to off site adoption fairs that morning and hold him for Gary to pick up. He had been an owner surrender and they had enough information that there was no doubt as to his heritage, though the identity of his breeder was unknown. By mid-afternoon on Saturday Gary reported to me that he had a very nice young Kerry in hand and that all was well. Gary fostered Barney through the week and was able to report back to me that while Barney doesn't like to share his food bowl with another dog he was otherwise getting along fine with Gary's Glen of Imaal female. He was affectionate and well mannered. He has been debarked.
This Saturday I set out on the two hour drive to meet Gary halfway between his home and mine. We met at Casa de Fruta in Hollister which is a gigantic fruit stand/restaurant/tourist spot. Due to car problems and traffic I was nearly 2 hours late getting there, but Gary is patient and when I finally arrived I found him sitting at an outside table with both of the dogs behaving perfectly. From there I took Barney, who rode like an angel on a seat belt in the back of my van another two hours all the way to Santa Cruz where I was to deliver him to his new family.
Barbara
Feldthaus had a Kerry named Blue 30 years ago and she has been wishing
for another Kerry boy ever since. She has an adult daughter who lives
nearby and visits her on weekends. When I arrived at the lane leading
to Barbara's house her daughter was standing in the lane waiting for
us. I slowed to a stop to check directions (not knowing right away that
this was Barbara's daughter) and when I rolled down the window Barney
tried to climb out over my shoulder to give Miriam kisses - it was like
he knew this was his family! Barbara is an antique dealer and her home
was full of strange objects including a mounted deer head on the wall
in the living room. Barney was very polite but also very interested
in his surroundings and when he noticed the deer he climbed up on a
chair, onto the back of it, stretching to touch noses with the deer!!
I loved it!
By
the time I got home that night there was a phone message from Barbara
to tell me that they had had a long walk down to the harbor and both
she and Barney had really enjoyed it. I'm so happy that this young dog
has such a loving home to go to and that he is making Barbara and Miriam
happy. [...]
I need to do some detective work, but it seems that Barney is 3.5 years old and came from a puppy mill in Nebraska - one of those with extensive websites and selling multiple breeds of dogs, including mixed breed dogs. We've rescued dogs that were products of this mill before and Barney actually looks very much like a girl named Carly who came into rescue two years ago. I'm curious to see if they are related. I'm also glad to report that this mill no longer has Kerries.
Please,
if you are considering getting a dog and you look at elaborate websites
professing to be a small home bred kennel BE AWARE that when they sell
multiple breeds they are generally a puppy mill. Put your money back
in your pocket and DON'T BUY from them. From Barney's history and the
beginnings of my research it seems to me that with a reputable breeder
and the support that these breeders offer their puppy buyers Barney
would have remained in his original home. As it is the owners had no
support, made some mistakes and Barney paid the price. But then again,
all's well that ends well.
Eileen Andrade
Rescue Coordinator for the Southwest
29-Jun-08
Layla
Was fostered in Chicago, IL
Rescue Coordinator: Linda Lee (linda@proactive.mb.ca)
Layla
is a gorgeous girl who turned 4 months old on July 1. She was rescued
from a pet store--a store that vowed not to sell any more Kerry Blue
Terriers.
She has a typical Kerry personality that loves people and has a lot of spirit. Her tail is normally up and wagging. Things that startle her result in her stepping back a little, but she won't leave the scene. Even the Fourth of July fireworks didn't phase her in the least. Layla loves to be petted and handled. There's nothing like a good belly rub before bedtime. Layla has met numerous people, young and old, men and women, and loves them all. She does very well with children. It looks like she will do well with other dogs. Since she lacks social skills because of being in a crate all day at the pet store, she was eager to play but a little too rambuncious with other dogs at first. However, she is now interacting appropriately after some guidance. She has done fine with 2 adult Kerry boys and a female Kerry puppy.
Layla
would thrive in a home that provided activities for mental stimulation
and social interaction. So, a home with other dogs, or children, or
agility classes would be a plus. Since Layla loves water (she went right
into the pond on day one without batting an eye), she would enjoy water
sports as well. Note that she rides in a car exceptionally well. Fetching
tennis balls is quite entertaining for Layla and humans! She also likes
to watch TV, and she barks at Porky Pig!
Training should progress quickly with the right motivation, but she can be terrier stubborn. She is a smart girl that can be motivated by praise and food. She comes when called by name. She is also learning to walk on a lead and to sit on command. House training has seen progress as well. Layla will require a firm and consistent "pack leader" in her forever home.
From: lgrisley@shaw.ca
Subject: Layla
Date: July 18, 2008 6:41:31 PM PDT
Layla has arrived safely in her permanent home in Montreal.
From: sophielarin@videotron.ca
To: nadia_boubou@hotmail.com
Subject: RE: Layla
Date: Fri, 5 Sep 2008 11:05:53 -0400
Layla
is doing very good. She's been neutered 3 weeks ago ( now more than
a month). She caught a eye infection at the vet, but now everything
is okay. We love her so much, she is part of the family. She is doing
good with the walk and she is houseborken. She know's the word sit,
down, stay, go get it, bring back, take it, and she also know the word
NO and potty. She bark when she see other dog, maybe a little too much,
but we are working on that. She love to be wash and she jump in the
shower. She's grown a lot and she weight 26 pounds ( she weighted 19
when she arrive). The training class are going well. We watch Ceasar
Millan DVD and we read a lot of book. We can now let her a couple hour
in her crate and she is good. 
She
sleeping 8 hour every night, hourray, hourray for us. She is sleeping
right beside the bed and she does'nt move, and sometimes we have to
wake her up in the morning.
Here is some picture, she is always sleeping on the ventilation shaft,
she is always hot, poor baby. She got a lot of energy, we walk 3 X 40
min per day and it's seem to fit her.
Sophie
Scooby
Scooby
was originally named “Scrappy” – not because he was
the aggressor, but because he was the victim. Scooby sounds much more
like his personality.
Scooby was rescued with 3 other dogs from the Ohio Amish miller in the Spring Break Rescue in May 2008. He arrived in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada on June 12 and took some time working up the nerve to come out of his crate. Although nervous, he walked nicely on leash and was curious of his surroundings, although he would freeze at sudden noise (engine starting up).
He was born July 1, 2007 and probably spent this first year of his life in a kennel run. At his foster home, he walked constantly around the perimeter of the yard when outside. His pacing does not appear neurotic……..this is probably the only activity he has known! His tail and ears are up. He shows curiosity at passers-by. But it’s obvious he does not know what else to do with himself. He does not know how to play. On his first day, he found a bush in the corner of the yard and curled up underneath it, but he did come out for food and water and to continue his walk. Now he will walk the perimeter, but also takes a few happy leaps around the middle before resuming the edge walk. Each day, we see more assurance and happiness in him.
Scooby has not uttered a sound since his arrival. He loves his crate and although not toilet trained yet, does not soil inside it. When he needed to go out on his first night, he just moved around in his crate until released and promptly went outside to do his business. Toilet training should continue to go well.
Scooby
is crated whenever left alone and is happy to go inside. So far he has
been left for up to 2 hours without incidence. He is calm and quiet.
We would still recommend a home where someone is home during the day.
This is not a dog that will do well left alone all day or given the
run of the house without supervision. He is calm because his crate is
his safe place.
Scooby does love to be held and scratched. Inside the house, he will curl up on the couch with his foster mum. He follows her around and she was surprised that he put his paws up on the kitchen counter to see what she was doing. OK – counter-surfer tendencies nipped in the bud! He takes verbal correction well.
Scooby’s foster home is one without other pets.
When rescued, he showed fear around other dogs. Once he is more settled
in his foster home, we will begin a program of obedience and socialization.
We expect this lovely young boy to respond quickly – he is not
quite a year old and has many happy years to come in a loving home.
Scooby will be neutered before placement. He is a good specimen of Kerry
Blue – a finer boned, lanky young man right now, and with good
muscle tone but low weight. He has had his shots and is in good health.
His tail was cropped a bit too short and his ears fly, but he has lovely
soft eyes and his sweet personality will charm everyone.
At this point, we cannot say that a home with other dogs or younger children would be appropriate for Scooby, but will keep updating his information as he progresses. He will definitely need a fenced yard and a quieter home.
Linda Grisley, Rescue Director for Canada
14-Jun-08
From: Linda Grisley
Subject: Scooby update
Date: June 18, 2008 12:02:35 PM PDT
What a difference a few days can make! Scooby has found
his voice and his play spirit! Not that we ever doubted that he would,
but it just goes to show the resilience of our breed that they can bounce
back so quickly from adversity.
Scooby's foster home reports that he has adopted a toy that he throws
around in the yard. Inside the house, he follows mum around and leans
on her for scratches whenever she sits down.
He will be neutered later this month. This is a very nice, sweet boy
who will make a wonderful addition to a homes that cares to work with
him and familiarize him to home life.
From: Linda Grisley
Subject: Scooby update
Date: July 15, 2008 9:51:30 PM PDT
Scooby transferred to his new home today
Skippy
Was fostered in Philadelphia, PA.
Coordinator: Tracey Fulmer
Skippy
is a ten-month-old male puppy that spent his first months in a puppy
mill and was destined for a life caged 24/7 in a mill, until he
was rescued by the Foundation. He came to us filthy, matted, and
with eye infections, which have cleared up nicely. Skippy is an
exceptionally exuberant puppy, afraid of nothing and quite self-assured.
He is a very small Kerry, yet he’s beautifully proportioned
and stands proudly – that is, when not zooming around the
yard. It took Skippy one week of freedom to discover sitting --
an interesting new alternative for an “all-or-nothing”
Kerry, to either running at high speed, chasing toys, or puppy power
napping.
Skippy is not only high energy, but intensely curious and bright,
so he is full of typical puppy shenanigans. Skippy has a high fun
factor and toys and more toys keep him out of trouble. 
He’s
protective of “his yard,” and even, of the neighborhood,
and will gladly let the neighbors know when someone is ringing their
doorbell! All Kerry Foundation rescues are required to attend obedience
classes per our adoption contract. We expect Skippy to do well in
training, as he bonds closely with his people. Because he's only
had a few weeks of freedom, formal training has only just begun.
He has learned the meaning of a gentle, “Noooo,” and
respects the command.
Potty training is also coming along -- 
the
current schedule of going outside at least every two hours is helping.
Most Kerries, even mill rescues, are quick to house train with a
dedicated and attentive owner. He can sleep through the night without
accidents.
Skippy has spent his entire short life with other dogs so he would
feel at home as a second dog or relish the attention of being the
only dog in a household. Because Skips plans to be an alpha male,
a female canine companion would be best. 
He
loves to tease a very mellow, older, good-natured male Kerry, but
respects the dominant female KBT who doesn't care for puppy pranks.
She does allow him to sleep beside her and doesn’t mind a
puppy paw in her face in the middle of the night.
He would do best in a situation where someone is home during the
day, as he needs housebreaking, puppy training, and the human companionship
he craves and has never had until now. 
A
securely fenced yard is a must – Skippy needs to run!
Skippers is currently being fostered in Philadelphia where he consumes
much of his foster Mom’s attention and she doesn’t mind
a bit. She says that Skippy is going to grow up to be a fabulous
Kerry and wonderful, loving companion. Skippy will be neutered before
he is placed.
1-Apr-08
From: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
Subject: [KBL] US Kerries: Rescue Updates
Date: August 18, 2008 9:15:55 AM PDT
To: KERRYBLUES-L@APPLE.EASE.LSOFT.COM
Reply-To: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
Skippy, who Agatha Hughes had fostered for months while we waited for the perfect home, found his perfect home in Texas. He is now living it up with Lily (rescued from the Great Escape) and owners who delight in his antics. He's a pistol and needed Kerry-experienced owners who would relish the challenge. Thank you to Agatha for her tremendous efforts in working with him on housebreaking and ongoing stomach problems (which have now cleared up). We were fortunate to get a video of Skippy chasing Lily. Apparently he hasn't learned how to jump on the bed so Lily taunts him (or seeks refuge) from above.
From: t_fulmer@yahoo.com
Subject: Fw: Skippy Update
Date: August 25, 2008 7:41:07 AM PDT
Here's an update on Skippy, who was in foster care for over 4 months
but has been placed with the Carbones in Texas with Lily, also rescued
by the Foundation (Great Escape).
Skippy and Lily have really become buddies. Her safety
zone is the middle of our bed where he can’t reach her. If she’s
tired of play she just gets up there and lets him run around the bed
while she bites him on the face.
Obviously foster Agatha Hughes worked with him quite a bit, so his potty
training has been fairly easy - No accidents in the house anymore at
all. He comes and paws at me when he wants to go out. They went to the
groomer last week but Skips wouldn’t let her do much to his face
so he just got his feet and belly shaved and a little trim here and
there. [...] His first visit [should not be] an unpleasant thing for
him.
Skipper is turning out to be the sweetest little boy ever – really
affectionate and very attached.
Maddie
Rescue Coordinator: Tracey
Fulmer
Was fostered in New Jersey
Maddie
is a 2 or 3 year old Kerry girl who loves, loves, loves to play with
her male foster Wheaten. She's a sweetheart of a cuddler with no bad
habits. No chewing, shares everything with her Wheaten pal, and is gentle
as can be. She's the perfect little lady!
Maddie was rescued with Lingus from a nasty puppy mill. She has been transformed into a beauty, with a lovely light coat and dark head. Weighing 31 lbs, fully vetted (heartworm negative, excellent full blood panel results) and recently spayed, she is ready to go to her forever home. Maddie is fostered in New Jersey.
Maddie
has some fear issues, which is somewhat common among mill rescues that
have had no exposure to normal life.. She needs a home that has the
patience and ability to work with her to trust men and gain exposure
to new situations in order to build confidence. She will likely overcome
this quickly in the right environment and with lots of treats. She is
great with the 11 year old son in the foster home, although a quiet
home without a lot of traffic would be best. She absolutely needs a
male dog for companionship and to show her the ropes, in addition to
a securely fenced yard and owners who are home during the day. She's
been neglected for her first three years and will never be neglected
again.
Maddie
has not had any housebreaking accidents in her foster home, where they
take her out every few hours. This will need continued monitoring to
ensure she fully understands that she needs to ask to go out.
This is one lovely Kerry lass with a gentle temperament
who will become a treasure to her lucky adoptive family.
The first step in the adoption process is to submit an adoption questionnaire,
which can be found at Available Rescue Kerries . We prefer that Maddie
be placed within driving distance of New Jersey.
This pet is up to date with routine shots.
This pet is already house trained.
This pet has been altered.
From: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
Subject: [KBL] US Kerries: Rescue Updates
Date: August 18, 2008 9:15:55 AM PDT
To: KERRYBLUES-L@APPLE.EASE.LSOFT.COM
Reply-To: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
This weekend, Maddie, rescued with her brother Lingus from one of the most disgusting back yard breeders we've come across, went to her forever home. She has a fenced yard, an older Kerry boy named Andrew to show her the ropes, and very gentle, loving new owners who have all day to spend with her. Thank you to Stephen and Debby Marcus who visited the adopters and got to see where Maddie would be living. And also to Kathie and Ron MacFarlane who were instrumental in freeing both Maddie and Lingus from their 24/7 caged existence.
Maddie is placed.
Ozzie-- 1 year old male
Rescue Coordinator: Tracey
Fulmer
Was fostered North of Philadelphia
Ozzie
is one year old, the brother to Scooby, rescued from an Ohio Amish miller
in the Spring Break Rescue in May 2008. He arrived at his foster home
north of Piiladelphia, rarin' to go. This is one happy boy! Because
Ozzie had been caged since he was born, we are just learning about his
personality and will be updating his progress.
Ozzie is up to date on shots and will be neutered shortly. He's working
on house training, but does not soil in his crate, so he's off to a
good start. He responds well to the "aah-aah" sound for corrections.
He will need obedience training, which is a requirement of all Kerry
Foundation adoptions.
Ozzie loves the great outdoors and is happy to spend as much time as he can exploring his fenced yard or sitting on the deck looking around. His foster home has two resident Kerries and a visiting puppy and he has shown no dog aggression, although he plays a bit rough with the pup. He does love to steal their toys, take them out in the yard, toss them in the air and run around the yard with glee.
This
is a sweet Kerry boy who loves to be scratched and has delighted his
foster mom and dad with his Kerry antics. Terrier experience and a sense
of humor are a must for his adoptive family. A securely, escape artist
proofed, fenced yard and somebody who is home during the day to give
Ozzie the attention he needs will be the best home for him. He would
love an active family and could be placed with dog-savvy children older
than 5.
From: t_fulmer@YAHOO.COM
Subject: [KBL] Ozzie found his home!
Date: September 2, 2008 6:28:44 AM PDT
I'm thrilled to share the good news that Ozzie, rescued with his brother
Scooby from an Amish breeder earlier this summer, went to his new home
this weekend. Yippee!!
Priscilla and David Harvey fostered Ozzie for several months, working
diligently on housebreaking and basic training even while their beloved
Cialey was losing her battle with cancer. So while the Harveys
worked on getting Ozzie ready for his future and got a good understanding
of the right home environment for him, we kept looking for that right
home. This was truly a team effort, with Holly Monahan calling
adoption applicants and then Morgan Federicks meeting the adopters to
ensure that the home was a loving one and the fence was secure for Ozzie,
the escape artist who runs like the wind without looking back.
(Well, he looks back, but you can only see the whites of his eyes....you
know the drill!)
Thank you to everybody involved in Ozzie's rescue and placement!
Tracey Fulmer
KBTF Rescue Coordinator, Northeast
KeeganAt the end of May the “Spring Break” rescue brought 4 Kerries from an Amish dealer in Ohio into our Rescue program.
Keegan is a 5 year old male, initially identified as an “equal opportunity humper”. Obviously a successful stud dog, his foster home (with 2 females) was not deterred from accepting him and have sent glowing reports:
Someone is going to get a wonderful Dog!
This little guy (and I mean little, he is very small) is absolutely a dream. All he wants is to be touched. He will go out of his way to be beside you and snuggle in.
He
gets along great with the other dogs. He has not snapped at all when his
romantic advances have been aggressively rejected. He is an extremely quick
learner. He has learned that when the girls say no they mean no and he understands
when we correct him for the behavior. I do not think this is going to be
a significant problem at all. He is outside with them all the time now and
is paying no attention to them other than to play.
No
problem with new people, males or females, young or old. He comes when he
is called and will sit (with help, so far).
13-Jun-08
Keegan was adopted by his foster home in September 2008.
Lingus
Rescue Coordinator: Tracey
Fulmer
Was fostered in Buffalo, NY
Can
you imagine living in a succession of puppy mills for 6 years with little
positive human interaction? That was Lingus’ life until he was rescued
on June 29. He had been bred to breed, nothing more. Underneath the overgrown
matted fur, there was a handsome gentleman sporting dark charcoal fur highlighted
with silver.
Lingus has been fully vetted, neutered, and his teeth cleaned. He is heartworm and other parasite negative and his full blood panel results showed a very healthy male Kerry.
This sweet boy has made amazing progress since his rescue.
Most importantly, Lingus is fully housebroken. He is crate trained, willingly
sleeping there and returning to it when unsure of visitors. 
Without
a doubt, he is a quick learner. In the two months since his rescue, he has
learned his name, the sit and off commands and is learning to come when
called as well as walking on a leash. He has not chewed anything except
the toys he has been given. One of his most enduring qualities is that he
is quiet, never barking at the three neighbor labs or talkative Papillion
next door. When he lies on the floor, he usually crosses his front legs.
Lingus loves to be with his foster family, inside or outside.
He prefers not to be outside for very long without a family member, perhaps
because he lived his past life either in an outside pen or cage 24/7. 
He
will take every opportunity to snuggle next to you and would thrive in a
home with companionship during the day. He will not disappoint you in his
love and devotion.
A forever home with a female dog would be good for Lingus,
but he will also do well as an only dog providing he has the companionship
from his humans for which he longs and so deserves. A fenced in yard is
required so Lingus can fully enjoy his freedom.
Lingus was placed on October 1, 2008! He went home today to live with a lovely couple in NJ. He'll be living with a Kerry girl named Jo who is very high spirited and going to work with the couple who are architects.
Lingus (right) with housemate/boatmate Jo.
Tracey
Bridgett
Was fostered on the US East Coast
Coordinator: Linda Lee
Bridgett
is a very special 1 1/2 year old Kerry Blue in need of re-homing. Rescued
from a puppy mill at 5 months of age, she has thrived and grown up to be
a beautiful Kerry lass in the home where she was placed. She LOVES people!!!
Unfortunately, Bridgett has shown herself to be an alpha female and is no longer getting along with the resident male Kerry. She is playful and friendly with dogs off her property, but is territiorial about "her home" and will always need to be the only dog in her new home. She is very affectionate -- did I say she LOVES people?
Bridgett has been carefully trained and will continue to flourish in a household which offers lots of love and reinforcement of the obedience training that she has experienced to date. She adores her "humans" and thrives on positive and loving interaction.
Bridgett
is small kerry weighing about 28 pounds with a jet black, silky coat. Since
she loves to run and play, she will do best in a home with a securely fenced
yard. She has lots of wonderful Kerry energy and will be the perfect companion
for folks who enjoy long walks and an active lifestyle.
Since Bridgett has some separation issues, we are looking
for an owner who can be with her as much as possible. This is a great little
dog looking for a very wonderful forever home. Although Bridgett is located
in the northeast, we will consider shipping her to the family of her dreams..
10-Jun-08
Bridgitt was placed in an experienced home in Quebec.
14-Oct-08
Corky
Corky
is a three year old, happy-go-lucky, neutered male Kerry located in the
Southwest.
Corky is an owner turn in who needs a home without another dog and owners
committed to his training. He had a bad start in life, having been shuffled
to various homes, none of which provided a male Kerry the correct environment.
He spent a lot of the time in his crate, receiving no attention or training.
When
we picked up Corky, he had worms and was severely malnourished, weighing
only 28 lbs. He’s been in a wonderful foster home for over a month
so we could assess his temperament, initiate basic training, neuter him
and get him healthy.
Although he’s been in a foster home with other Kerries, without incident,
he would do best as an only dog. He is outgoing and friendly with people
and children, and interacts properly with most dogs. 
However,
he can be randomly aggressive with some dogs, especially new ones that come
into his space. Therefore he will need committed leash walkers and a fenced
yard for exercise. Although he loves children, an adult only home is recommended.
Training experience with a reactive terrier would be ideal – this
boy requires a pack leader in his human. He’s a smart cookie and a
fast learner who really relishes the attention and the opportunity to use
his brain.
Corky has a typical Kerry clown-like attitude and is just plain fun to be
with. He is crate trained and potty trained. He’ll beat you to the
car and loves to go on walks and meet people. Corky will be a delightful,
obedient, committed companion for the right owners.
Corkey was placed on November 7, 2008
From: sawyertom@VERIZON.NET
Subject: [KBL] It is a New Day
Date: November 26, 2008 8:56:28 AM PST
It is a New Day...
Many of you will remember a few months ago the report of a 3 1⁄2 year old Kerry in trouble. This Kerry had grabbed an 8 week old Lab puppy and refused to let go. Subsequently he was remanded to the County Sheriff's Animal Control for quarantine and possible euthanasia on the Labor Day weekend.
Today, I am very happy to report that this Kerry is alive and doing fantastically well. This would not have happened without dedicated Kerry people and a special County Sheriff Officer. The Officer was able to view his behavior during his quarantine period (during the time of hurricane Ike) and found him to be a very friendly dog. The Officer agreed to extend his life and turn him over to the Foundation. Cindy Hatzfeld, from the Kerry Blue Texas Club drove about 500 miles by herself with the entire hurricane Ike traffic to pick up this Kerry. She brought him to a local Vet for a check-up and to be neutered. He was in sad shape, he had hookworm and weighed just over 25 pounds when received by the Vet.
Following his surgery, this undernourished boy came to stay with us as a Foster. Initially we kept him isolated from our other two Kerries; pending his behavior evaluation. We went through a series of aggression tests - fear, territorial, dominance, predatory, food, toy and redirected aggression. With the exception of some minor redirected aggression, this Kerry passed with flying colors. This boy appeared to lack any basic structure. After a couple of weeks he was given the chance to interface with the other Kerries and we all went on walks to build a pack mentality. This little guy and I went to the local park daily where he went through basic training - how to sit and lay down with verbal and hand signal commands. It turns out he is a very quick learner and extremely intelligent. He was introduced to numerous dogs in the area, small, medium and large without any signs of aggression. However, his preference is humans. He loves people, and loves to lay by your side in the evening. In typical Kerry fashion he also counter surfed and stole our dinner one night!
My hat is off to the Kerry Blue Texas Club who came through in many ways to help this Kerry. They held a raffle to help defray some of the expenses, and also helped in finding a suitable adopter. I am most grateful for their total support.
After two months of evaluation and training, it was time to let him go to a new life and his forever home. We were sad to see this little guy go, he was such a delight to have around. He now has a new owner; someone that has many years of dog experience, in breeding and owning, and can handle a terrier breed. He has no children at home, or other animals, and was looking for an older Kerry as a companion to take on long walks and trips. He also has a Vet in the family. Our boy met his new owner at our house, and it was instant Love between the two.
So this Thanksgiving say a special prayer to the true Kerry people that believe every Kerry deserves a second chance.
The Kerry Blue Foundation has given a new life to a very special Kerry that was in serious trouble. Please help and donate to the Kerry Blue Foundation a very worth while cause! And go hug your Kerry.
The Sawyer
Coppell, Texas
Sophie
Sophie
is not with the Kerry Foundation. This is a courtesy post for the Bright
Futures Pet Adoption and Rescue organization in Columbus, Nebraska who
is currently fostering Sophie and will be placing her.
We suspect Sophie is a Kerry Blue Terrier based on the information and pictures provided by the rescue and the fact that a known puppymill in the area has not been able to sell their Kerry pups (and thus likely dumped her since she was picked up as a stray). This is the information Bright Futures provided on Sophie:
Sophie is 15 inches tall and appears to be 6 to 9 months old, so she will get a little bigger. This girl is a dream boat. She is very quiet and well behaved, gets along very well with other dogs and cats and she is housebroken. Please do your homework if you are interested in Sophie. This breed is not for everyone. A fenced yard will be required. Sophie still needs to get in to be spayed, heartworm tested and vaccinated and we hope to get that done ASAP. She will be available for adoption after that.
Sophie was placed December 6, 2008.
Aidan
Fostered in Colorado
Rescue Coordinator: Mimi Karsh, mkarsh@comcast.net
Aidan first came to rescue attention when he was placed for sale on “craigslist”. I went with another experienced Kerry owner to see him in the hope of having this five year old neutered boy surrendered to rescue for evaluation and proper placement in a forever home. We were greeted by a sweet, full of Kerry personality and exceptionally well trained boy who was living with another dog and two very active young children. Aidan was purchased directly from a well known mill in the midwest and his owner was determined to recoup the “investment” refusing any negotiation. Needless to say, we left with heavy hearts knowing Aidan would be spending most of his life ignored in his crate. However, several months later, Aidan was purchased by someone wanting companionship for a female dog. While the dogs got along well, Aidan’s Kerry exuberance was too much for his new owner and after much advice and soul searching, he was surrendered in mid November. He is currently in an experienced foster home being monitored by a no nonsense Kerry girl. He has learned his boundaries with her and he and his foster mom are working on leash walking manners. He loves to go for car rides and behaves well while letting approaching pedestrians in parking lots know that he is “on duty”. Aidan shows a strong prey drive typical of most Kerrys and he must have a well secured fenced yard with walks on a leash. The next two paragraphs have been taken directly from an assessment written by his foster mom.
“His gentle disposition would make him an excellent companion for children- he fetches, loves balls and squeaky toys, plays tug o'war gently, and I'm quite sure could be taught many other tricks. He knows all his basic commands by voice and hand; sits for his dinner until told to eat, and waits politely while food is being prepared- though he likes to be nearby when it is. His high energy level might make him better suited for older children, strong enough to hold a leash on a walk when a squirrel runs by. He is interested in meeting other dogs on walks and does not show aggression. He is content to snooze quietly beside the couch and really just wants to be with you. He does not display signs of separation anxiety, but will follow me from rom to room. He's energetic and needs a good walk daily, but would probably be content to play ball in the back yard for exercise.”
He will do well with the companionship of another dog but should not be in a home with a cat. Children old enough to respect and properly handle a dog would be fine. He is happy in his crate when he has to be left home alone with his Kerry housemate. When his foster mom is home, his crate is left open for naps and it’s not used as any form of discipline. He happily sleeps on the bed with his foster mom the entire night curled in a ball but knows that the couch is off limits. According to his mom, he is a great snuggler and is relishing the human contact. Aidan is a handsome boy with a lovely dark silvery coat and a very short tail, typical of the mill from which he came. This tail has not hampered his enthusiastic “wag” ability in any way. He was photographed on the day of his surrender and after a proper grooming, he will be one handsome boy! Even after two unappreciative homes, Aidan’s love of life and Kerry personality have not been dampened. Hopefully, he will have a “Very Merry Kerry Christmas” and the start of a loving new life in the coming year.
From: mkarsh@COMCAST.NET
Subject: [KBL] Aidan: The Best Christmas Ever
Date: December 27, 2008 1:43:02 PM PST
It is with great delight that I report on Aidan's forever home. He had
been in a loving foster home since November 15th after spending the 5
1/2 years of his life in two different homes that weren't right for him.
Many good people who saw his story wanted to be his next family but it
was very important that this sweet and loving boy have the absolutely
perfect "forever" home this time. Indeed, the third time was
a charm and that family did appear.... complete with Kerry experience
and two happy canine companions.
Getting him on a plane from Denver, experiencing record cold temperatures, seemed like it might not happen for months. Fortunately, we only had to worry about low temperatures in Denver as he was flying to Southern California. With constant contact with the weather forecast, a glimmer of hope appeared for a possible warm up on Christmas Day. At nearly midnight on Christmas Eve we got news of the lifting of flying restrictions for animals and the next morning Aidan was sent on his way, not by sleigh, but by red station wagon and silver jet. He arrived in California by late afternoon Christmas Day, safe and happy and by evening he had a new teenage best friend, two new four legged friends and a spot on his new mom and dad's bed. Christmas for all concerned just doesn't get better than that!
Mimi Karsh
Denver, CO
Aidan was placed with Shannon Whiting in Southern California
From: Shannon Whiting
Sent: Monday, July 20, 2009 9:56 AM
Subject: Aidan
I
must share with you the joy that our recent adoption, Aidan, has brought
to us. He arrived on Christmas Day from Mimi Karsh in Denver. Someone
was looking out for us because we lost our Kerry, Willy, on December 15
and Aidan arrived on 12/25. Aidan is an angel and as everyone who meets
him says “The two families that gave us this dog were stupid because
if you don’t like Aidan, you don’t like dogs!” He loves
everyone including our vet and his groomer, our neighbors, Colleen’s
boyfriend, just everyone he encounters. He is smart, loving and really
easy to have around. We have a 14.5 year old Airedale and a 13 year old
Basset and there has never been a cross word between them. For us, it
was wonderful to have a young terrier again. We are so grateful to the
Foundation that we were chosen to share our lives with this wonderful
boy!
Shannon
From: Shannon Whiting
Sent: Monday, August 17, 2009
Subject: Aidan
I wanted to share with you how Aidan, the perfect dog is doing. As you know, it has been an emotional time in our home these past couple of weeks. Aidan has been a saint and was there for Colleen every step of the way. He has been her shadow, comforting her and just being his easy, loving, patient self. She told me that she misses Rosie, terribly, but she is certainly glad that Aidan has been there to help her through it. He seemed to sense that she was needy and he was there for her. He slept with her every night since Rosie passed away. I checked on them one night and he was actually lying on top of her all stretched out with legs stuck up in the air. He also seemed to have been a comfort to Charlotte too, who was depressed, lying around like a beached whale. He would approach her, bark at her quietly and then nip at her giant foot. She would lift her head and plunk it right down again. She is doing better now and is back to unrolling the toilet paper and playing with Aidan, a bit. We have noticed that she has slowed down; don’t know if her age is catching up with her (she is 13) or if she is still mourning.
Aidan continues to charm everyone he comes in contact with. He and Fred
walk me out every morning when I leave for work. Aidan knows that he isn’t
allowed out the front door without an “ok” from us. So Fred
and I stand and chat with the front door wide open. Aidan sits, twitching
and adjusting himself, until he received the “Ok” to run out
front. He sniffs around a bit and then he has a command “Go to Fred”
which means he moves up on the grass so that I can back the car out. The
amusing thing is that now we don’t even have to give him the command
and Fred doesn’t even have to be there…he just goes there
himself and sits down so that he is safe. Then they watch me drive away,
husband and dog enjoying the morning air. It takes me back years, long
before Colleen was born, when Fred and I were newly weds with our first
Airedale, Dinah, and they walked me out each morning to send me off to
work.
Fred loves Aidan more than I can express in words. Each evening when he
comes home from work they have a routine. After Fred greets the humans,
Aidan goes and gets his special toy, and then he and Fred play. After
they play for a few minutes, Fred sits down and Aidan jumps into his lap
and then Aidan tells us about his day. He is very democratic, dividing
his time between the family members….he spends time with Fred watching
baseball, then he moves in to spend time with Colleen and then he goes
to bed with me because I retire early since I get up so early. Mimi, he
is truly a dream dog who came into our lives when we truly needed him.
He has seen us through the loss of two beloved dogs………..
Now, we eagerly look forward to Jazz joining us. We are busy picking out the perfect collar for her….naturally everyone has an opinion. Aidan wants her collar to match his but in a more feminine plaid; Colleen wants polka dot. You mentioned that Jazz is a “wild child”. Fred and I look at that as a gift too because of Colleen heading off to college we will have the time to love and train Jazz and give her the kind of home she deserves with a family who will adore her for the rest of her life.
Thank you again for the wonderful blessing of having Aidan in our life, for he has enriched us beyond measure.
Shannon
Gully
In
August 2006, the Foundation successfully rescued 4 Kerries from a Missouri
puppy mill (Summer’s Pride Rescue). Gulliver
was only 5 months old when he came out of the mill and within weeks was
placed in Ontario, Canada. His new family knew that Gulliver was a handful
of chewing, humping puppy when he came to live with them, but what they
did not know was that, at age 2, Gully would show an aggressive streak to
other dogs. His aggression is not always there – he can meet other
dogs and has attended obedience classes without problem. However, one of
the other dogs at this home is getting older and Gully has decided he makes
a good target. Gully is only 2 years old and is going through his “teen
rebellion”, while at the same time, the older male just wants some
peace and quiet and does not need to live out his senior years worrying
about and avoiding the youngster. In order that the older dog can live out
the remainder of his time in comfort, we have decided that Gully needs to
move to a new home.
Gully
is a typical Kerry. He loves all people, including children. He has high
energy and loves the long walks in the country where he lives and to play
with the two other family dogs. (he gets along fine with an adult Kerry
female) Unfortunately, in winter, so much snow covers the grounds that the
outdoor activities are curtailed, and that’s where we believe Gully’s
aggression erupts when pent up energy has not had a chance to dissipate.
Gully has taken obedience classes and knows sit, down, wait for his supper, sit before going out, down, stay, etc. He has been living with NILIF principles and is a well mannered dog, who is housebroken and neutered.
January 10, 2009
It is a pleasure to announce that Gulliver is no longer up for adoption - he is staying with his family after all. Although we may think at times that our Kerry rambunctious kids are too much, it's too difficult to let them go.
Very best wishes to whole family!
Linda Grisley
Rescue Coordinator - Canada
Thanks
Linda
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