Goodbye is Never Easy

Although we are a no-kill shelter here at the St. Tammany Humane Society, it does not mean that we are ‘sheltered’ from the loss of beloved pets and on the rare occasions, elderly shelter animals or those with a  terminal illness.  

Just recently Dr. Johnston experienced the loss of her Pinni, a 12 year old Greyhound rescue with a penny colored coat and heart of gold.  Beautiful souls like Pinni enter our lives, reveal themselves in many ways that are easier to understand and welcome than members of our own species, and become a part of our family in a uniquely special way.  Dog, cats, horses, mules (what amazing creatures!), bunnies, and so many other pets are able to give humans what we are constantly seeking in life:  unconditional love.  Why is this so special?  Perhaps because so many of us are unable to give it ourselves.  But whatever the mystical or philosophical reasons behind the special bond we share with our pets, one thing is clear:  That bond exists, and the love shared between pet and owner should never be dismissed as anything other than what it ultimately allows for – a partnership built on love, trust, and companionship (often times the strongest relationship that people have nurtured in their lifetime).  

This is why……Goodbye Is Never Easy.  According to Pastor Bonnie Poirier, “Grieving the loss of a pet is a normal response and a very individual one.  One important difference between pet loss and human loss is that pet loss is often not appreciated. Friends and family may ask ‘What’s the big deal? It’s just a pet!’ There is also the assumption by many that pet loss shouldn’t hurt as much as human loss, because humans are supposedly more important than pets.”

The truth is that all losses, animal or human, can plunge you into despair and may signal the beginning of a profound spiritual-emotional journey. Like grief for humans, grief for animal companions can be dealt with over time and in stages.  At the St. Tammany Humane Society, we will provide for you a safe and natural environment to share and heal as you receive comfort and support.  Please join us the first Saturday of each month at 9am at the shelter for “Goodbye is Never Easy,” a pet loss grief gathering held by Carol Bonnie Poirier of Peaceful Planet Pets (http://www.peacefulplanetpets.com/): 

 

Carol Bonnie Poirier, I go by Bonnie - my grandmother's nickname. I was born in 1960 and raised in New Orleans. I graduated from the University of New Orleans with Bachelor of Arts and St. John's University with Master of Science. I was ordained as a minister with the Congregational Church in June 1994. I am a member of the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement and the Association for Professional Humane Educators. With my pet ministry, I focus on pet loss support as well as pet memorials, pet blessings, labyrinth walks and nature walks. I have also written a working pet loss journal called "Goodbye Is Never Easy."

If you (or someone who know) has experienced the loss of a pet, and could benefit from sharing your loss and experience with others who are like minded in both their love of a lost pet and the grief which follows, please consider joining us and Bonnie for “Goodbye is Never Easy” (again, it is on the first Saturday of each month at 9 a.m. at STHS).  This time is free - all that is asked is that you call or email jessica@sthumane.org  to hold your seat.

St. Tammany Humane Society joins Pets for Patriots Pet Adoption Program for Veterans Partners with nationwide charity to give shelter dogs and cats a second chance at life with veterans and service members

 

St. Tammany Humane Society in Covington, Louisiana has partnered with Pets for Patriots, Inc., a not-for-profit that connects last-chance shelter pets with our country's loyal service men and women, to increase the adoption of adult and other at-risk homeless pets by veteran and service members of the United States military.

In spite of the demonstrated emotional and physical benefits of companion pets, more dogs and cats are killed each year than the populations of Alaska, Delaware, Montana, North Dakota and Vermont combined. Working with Pets for Patriots, St. Tammany Humane Society gives local veterans, service members and their families the gift of unconditional friendship and love while providing millions of dogs and cats a second chance at life.

“Working with Pets for Patriots, we hope to motivate our local veterans and service members to give these animals a loving home. This will help us place more hard-to-adopt pets with good people who need or want a companion pet, and save these innocent animals from becoming permanent shelter residents,” says Executive Director Vicky Kreeger.
Individuals are welcome from all United States armed forces and at any stage of their careers. Eligible pets must meet one of three criteria: dog or cat two years or older, dog over 40 pounds regardless of age, or a special needs dog or cat.

Joining Pets for Patriots is entirely free to veterans, though they are responsible for St. Tammany Humane Society’s adoption fee. To reduce the chance that these pets are surrendered, the charity sends a $150 gift card upon proof of eligible adoption to help with food and other essentials, and provides access to local veterinary partners who agree to offer ongoing discounted care.

 “Our goal is to help our adoption partners re-home harder-to-place pets that still have years of love and life to give,” says Beth Zimmerman, founder and executive director of Pets for Patriots, "while at the same time making it more affordable for military personnel to bring a pet into their lives. We’re delighted to work with the St. Tammany Humane Society to give these last-chance pets a second chance at life and, in so doing, to enhance the lives of veterans in the community. Everybody wins.”

 St. Tammany Humane Society quickly saw the potential to find hard-to-adopt dogs and cats permanent homes with service members. “We are able to place about 900 pets each year,” says Executive Director Vicky Kreeger. “Through our partnership with Pets for Patriots, we hope to provide forever homes to even more loving animals with the many service members and veterans in our area.”

Individuals must first apply through Pets for Patriots and provide proof of their military service or honorable discharge. Approval typically takes one to two business days, after which they can visit St. Tammany Humane Society for assistance in choosing their new best friend.

Adopters through the Pets for Patriots program also receive 15% off of vet services through the St. Tammany Humane Society vet clinic for their adopted pet, and one free night of boarding with Willow’s Oak Pet Lodge in Madisonville (minimum 2 night stay).

 

About Pets for Patriots

Pets for Patriots, Inc., is a registered 501(c)(3) charity that helps military members honorably adopt adult and at-risk shelter pets. Its mission is to consistently give the gifts of fidelity, joy and companionship to both pet and person.  Pets for Patriots is one of the only organizations in the country dedicated to both adult pets and military members. The charity is a proud member of the Army AW2 Wounded Warrior Program national community support network, a national partner of the Real Warriors Campaign and is listed by the National Resource Directory for ill and wounded veterans. Visit www.petsforpatriots.org for more information.

 

Cayenne: Smart with a Heart

I first met Terrie Varnado about 2 years ago when there were wires crossed in the STHS transport program.  Something to do with too many dogs on a plane headed north.......and boy, looking  back, I did not then realize what an understatement that was!  There are times in life when you know, without question, the sincerity, tenacity, and unyielding honesty of a person by the mere tone of their voice or hard glint in their eye.  This is Terrie.  She has since been an integral and instrumental part of the STHS transport program "Waggin' Wheels," doing the tough and dirty rescue work that requires an old soul and new rugs every 3 -4 weeks!
Here is the story of Cayenne, who was rescued by Terrie, and is now in our adoption program at STHS.  His story, written by Terrie:

"Cayenne is a special guy that has been treated very badly and neglected in his life.  I was called in on a divorce/neglect case with three dogs on chains, one with no shelter.  Cayenne was very thin and had dug holes in the yard to catch rain water for drinking.  He had no shelter what-so-ever and was living in a muddy mess. He just ran around the tree all day long.  They fed him if they felt like it, when they happened to have food. I got permission from the owner to feed and water him, and I brought over a Dog-loo for his shelter.  Then I began to search for a new home, or a rescue, to take the animals.  I found rescue for one of the other dogs and a blind horse (that was skin and bones) on the property.  The family refused to give up one of the dogs.  Now, Cayenne is searching for his furever home.  He needs our help to find that special family that will give him love, take care of him properly, while teaching him with patience. 

Cayenne is a very sweet guy and is being held in a temporary foster home.  He is living on an enclosed porch with a doggie door. He is about 5 years old and looks to be a Catahoula /mix.  He weighs about 70 lbs.  He is very smart and knows basic commands... no, sit, lay, shake and he walks well on a leash. He loves his walks and attention!!!  He may try to jump up sometimes, but listens when you correct him.  I do not believe that he has ever stepped foot inside a home, so he would definitely have to be housebroken, or have an enclosed patio to live on.  Since he has lived his life on a chain, he doesn't know proper behavior.  He can tend to get a little rambuncious and knock things over.....ooops!  He barks when it is thundering (due to being chained out in storms for so long, I'm sure) and to alert you when someone is coming to your home. He is very friendly, non-agressive, loves everyone, and greets you with a wagging tail.

Do you have room in your heart and your home for Cayenne?  This poor guy deserves to know what it is like to be loved and cared for in his lifetime."

Thank you, Terrie...for all that you do for the dogs!  And if anyone is interested in adopting Cayenne, contact Terrie Varnado (varnado1@bellsouth.net) for more information on Cayenne's personality and Janie Valle (Janie@sthumane.org) for more information about the adoption process at STHS.

Pure Barre gives STHS "Serenity"

We all know, as dog owners living in Louisiana, the prevalence of heartworms and the importance of keeping your dogs on preventative.  Here at the Humane Society, we regrettably are forced to turn away many dogs who are heartworm positive for the simple reason that we cannot afford to treat all of them. 

Now, take that fact and shelve it for a few moments.  I want to talk about some of the fundraisers for STHS that you so often hear about (be it via our volunteer bulletin, newspaper, Facebook, website, etc).  As an individual in today’s technologically savvy society with a myriad of demands on our time, energy, money, and allegiance, we are caught up in a constant deluge of information and pleas for help that typically go in one ear and out the other.  So much to process.  And our hearts can only sympathize with so many downtrodden and disenfranchised people, animals, and plants (plants have feelings!) a day before we simply become numb with the magnitude of it all.  We get it.

But there are, of course, some causes that we identify with on a level that incites us into action.  If you are reading this blog, then animal welfare is likely one of those causes which you hold dear.  Our volunteers, supporters, and donors are such an integral part of realizing our mission here at the St. Tammany Humane Society.  And too often they do not see the tangible results of their efforts and dedication to the shelter animals that they stand behind. 

If had the time and space, I would love nothing more than to recount all the examples of how our supporters have had a miraculous impact on the animals here at the Humane Society, and these heroic deeds do not always receive the recognition that they deserve.  I can only hope that in lifting one of these countless events to the forefront,  it will encourage us all to remember that every one of our actions, no matter how small we may think it, has an effect that may mean the difference between life and death for another magnificent being. 

Many of you will remember reading about Pure Barre’s Anniversary event, from which STHS received a $1000 donation from the evening’s proceeds.  Again, many times these facts go in one ear and out the other.  But what does this truly mean?  How did this happen?  Where does this money go?

 This means that every act of generosity begins in the heart and mind of one individual.  In this particular instance, Jennifer Thomas, owner of Pure Barre.  The Pure Barre staff and enthusiasts carried the ball (pun intended) and the STHS staff and volunteers who attended the event made it possible to put a furry face to the cause.  That’s great.  And where did the $1000 go?

Let us rewind to our earlier conundrum (our inability to take in many heartworm positive dogs due to the cost of treatment). Vicky Kreeger, our tireless leader, earmarked this donation for heartworm treatment for potential shelter intakes.  To put it in the simplest terms (not my forte…sorry), some of this money saved the life of our newest STHS shelter beagle, Serenity.  Serenity was dropped off with three of her pups, in hopes that they would all enter our adoption program……until Serenity tested positive for heartworms.  Under normal circumstances, we could not have taken Serenity, but because of the money donated by Pure Barre, Serenity will be treated for heartworms and will be up for adoption following treatment.   

Thanks to Pure Barre and the STHS volunteers who gave their time at this event for the shelter animals that ‘incite them into action,’ a life was saved. 

To all of you who donate your time, efforts, and money to the mission of St. Tammany Humane Society (To save the life of every adoptable animal in our community through education,
adoption and spay/neuter programs.):  YOU MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!  

3rd Annual Puppies Gone Poker!

The St. Tammany Humane Society’s 3^rd annual Puppies Gone Poker Run will be a huge hit with dog lovers on the Northshore who are looking for an event that is not only dog-friendly, but celebrates the bond we share with our canine companions by making them an essential element of the afternoon festivities!  Enjoy a Sunday afternoon with Fluffy and Fido, strolling the streets of Old Mandeville, and collecting the best 7 card poker hand to win $1000!! 

Event day registration will be from 4 – 6 p.m. at Zorro’s Funzone for Pets (924 Girod St).  Pre-register by July 17^th and save $5.  You can pre-register at www.sthumane.org, STHS front desk, or Zorro’s Funzone for pets.  ‘Paw’ticipants will turn in their hand to the house at 7 p.m. at The Beach House Bar and Grill (115 Girod St) to the groovy tunes of STHS’s favorite band, Christian Serpas & Ghost Town Acoustic.  Did we mention the best hand wins $1000???

Poker Run participants will collect one card from each stop to complete their 7 card hand.  Each stop along this pawsome poker run promises a howling good time on an afternoon that will definitely ‘go to the dogs.’  Other sponsors for this event include The Barley Oak, PMO Link, The Scotts’ Coffee Bar, Vianne’s Tea House, Varsity Sports, The Shiver Shack, Frosch Barber Shop, Das Schulerhaus Christmas and Gift Gallery, and Aviva Massage & Well-Being Center. 

So dog lovers of the Northshore, save the date and head on down to Zorro’s on Sunday, July 22^nd at 4:00 to register for STHS’s 3^rd annual Puppies Gone Poker, and share that dog day of summer with your ‘ace in the hole’:  man’s best friend.  And remember, please enjoy this event with dogs that are people and other-dog friendly.  Keep your pooches on a leash and ‘know when to hold em!’  Wear comfortable shoes, or your dogs will be barking.  We hope to see you there, at STHS’s 2012 Puppies Gone Poker…..where every dog will have its day!

All proceeds from the poker run will go toward the expansion of the St. Tammany Humane Society’s surgical suite in our full service Fix Dat vet clinic to increase the number of spays and neuters we can perform at STHS.  Fix Dat!

Kali's Second Chance

Second chances…..some of us have been lucky enough to have them.  Others have not been so fortunate.  But whether or not the stars were aligned for us personally, I think (or hope) we can all agree that everyone deserves that second chance.  And so Kali’s story begins with the hope of that second chance, and unlike most of fate’s fast curve balls that come out of nowhere, you actually have it within your  power to give Kali another shot at this life that is filled with some mad, mad harmony (Clarice Lispector).

It was a Saturday afternoon.  Blazing hot.  Most of the STHS staff was in the vacillating throes of suffocating heat and torrential downpours at the rabies drive in Pearl River.  Near the end of the afternoon, Kali is carried into the Humane Society.  She’d been hit by a car.  But what to do?  There would be no vet at the shelter until Monday morning.  Kali had seen better Saturday afternoons, but did not seem to be in a life threatening condition after the accident.  This is a typical snapshot moment of when animal loving staff look at each other in question, and think the following:

1.       Yes, there are rules in place for intakes.  Technically Kali is not scheduled to come into our adoption program.

      2.      We cannot heartworm test her, and are not able to take in heartworm positive dogs…..even if we can take her in.
      3.      She is hurt, and we do not have a vet.  But these folks have nowhere to turn and are not able to bring a dog home.

A few of Kali's visible injuries:

  

 But alas, these are logical thoughts, and those with higher sentiments than mere logic know that any life worth living is one peppered with many moments of irrational decisions based on the spirit and well-being of our fellow travelers.  Our fellow traveler Kali needed our help.  And Katie came to her rescue.  Enter Katie. 

Katie (17) and her mom Cynthia are truly the unsung heroes of the St. Tammany Humane Society.  Unflagging fosters and volunteers (and now Katie made official as part of the STHS kennel staff), their efforts and enthusiasm are unsurpassed and I wish were more contagious!  Cynthia and Katie (true to form) were volunteering at the rabies drive that fateful Saturday and returned to the shelter just in time to witness Kali’s dire circumstances.

 

For Katie, there was no real decision to be made.  She took Kali home with her and nursed her through what remained of her weekend.  Kali was examined by the vet on Monday.  Many of her wounds, though painful and slow to heal, are superficial.  The worst of the news:  Kali is heartworm positive.  We cannot intake Kali. 

 Now if any of you would find it easy to look Katie in the eye and tell her that her little Kali has to go to Animal Services because she is heartworm positive, you are a stronger person than I.  The cost of Kali’s heartworm treatment and 2 – 4 weeks of wound therapy is $600.  If we can raise this money through our Second Chance Fund…..yep you got….Kali gets a Second Chance.  Please help us to renew both Kali and Katie’s faith in humanity by donating to help cover the cost of Kali’s treatment so that we can all revel in illogical triumphs and second chances.

To donate to Kali's Second Chance Fund...

Mail donation to:
St. Tammany Humane Society
Second Chance Fund
20384 Harrison Ave
Covington, LA   70433

Or click here and donate via our website:  Kali's Second Chance Fund