The Dogs' Refuge Home

Give your Valentine the pawfect gift

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 04:28:00 +1100

Looking for a Valentines gift that also supports a great cause? Instead of chocolates or flowers, why not make a donation to the Dogs' Refuge Home on behalf of your loved one? It is the pawfect gift for the dog lover.

All you have to do is come down to the Refuge, make a donation, choose your greeting card and give it to your Valentine. All money donated provides vital care to the beautiful dogs at the Home.

Dougal is a gentle soul

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 23:33:00 +1100

I have another update for you on Dougal who I was lucky enough to adopt in October 2011. He is well & a pleasure to be with.

This amazing dog is just so gentle & loving with my great nephew Maverick I thought I would share a photo with you (one of about 1,000). When Mav is visiting these two are inseparable. Doogs is either being layed on, used as a step or or just plain adored. And the feeling is mutual... when Mav is sad & crying Dougal lies next to him or checks on him if he is in a different room. How does he know to be so gentle with a 1 year old?

Dougal has enjoyed two trips to Busselton & visits to the beach in the last few months & was a very well behaved traveling companion.

He loves spending time with his doggy buddies Brock & Dax who play with him as he has a lot of energy to burn for a fella who is almost 9. It may be time to think about a brother or sister for him I think.

Thank you staff & friends at Shenton Park. You do such a wonderful job & I am happy to report that the match you made between Dougal & I has been a very successful one.

Your friends Judy & Dougal Regan xx woof woof

Diva spices up things with her new family

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 03:31:00 +1100

Dear Furry Friends and Friendly Volunteers. Hi there I hope this finds you all wet nosed and barking. I wonder if you remember me? My name “was” Diva whilst I stayed with you all at the refuge. I just thought I’d drop you a line to let you know how things are going.

Whilst I enjoyed my stayed with you – all those friendly volunteers taking me for walks and the good natured staff grooming me and giving me tasty diners and tidbits. I was surrounded by some great fellow furry friends (some a little on the noisy side I might add). But we had a laugh, woofing and barking to each other to keep our spirits up and to encourage those who were a little frightened and lost among us. We always had something to say about those strange friendly humans that came to stare at us.

Well this pair of humans came to visit one day and although I was a little standoffish and did not put on a sad “take me home” face, they seemed to think I was great and asked if they could take me home with them. So after a chat with one of the staff to make sure they were “good” people and would not let me down (again) I was helped into this strange moving contraption, scared me half to death as we stopped and started and juddered along. Luckily I had my favorite toy to chew for comfort. The female human sat with me stoking me and making soft soothing noises, which was very reassuring.

We got to their house; which was very smart. I have a big back garden to play in with lots of grass. There are some beautiful flowerbeds, which I try to avoid when I’m running around. There are some cool shade spots to rest in, a huge tree, a patio and a garage.

They take me for walks every morning and every evening, we go to some of the local parks. I have been to 3 different ones so far. I have great fun at the park the humans enjoy throwing the ball so I kindly run after it and bring it back to them. They give me a treat and lots of pats and then I let them throw the ball again – They just love this game. They did change my name to “Chilli”, which took me a day or so to get use to, although I did pretend longer as they kept giving me treats when I came to my new name?? I’m not silly.

They have been training me and teaching me other tricks, which is great as I get treats and tidbits when I do it right, I can sit, stay (most times), lie down, give (when they want the ball back), roll over and they are trying to get me to shake paws (hands). I also come back when called which they love.

I’m left at home on my own sometimes but I get a Kong stuffed with biscuit and treats and cream cheese and peanut butter – mmmmm keeps me busy for hours. I sleep in the kitchen on my comfy soft bed surrounded by my toys. I have loads of toys: chewy toys, squeaky toys, balls and teddies – I am only allowed a couple at a time – but I know I am a little spoilt.

The humans are very kind and loving they talk to me all the time and give me loads of kisses and cuddles and pats. I sit between them in the evenings on the outside sofa – my favorite time of the day.

I met Baxter, one of the neighborhood dogs, we had a great time played chase around his garden – he is 7 and I completely wore him out. He amazingly disappeared through a door at one time – I could see him inside but I have no idea how he got through the closed door?? What a trick – I hope I learn that one, one day. (Now I’m told it was a doggie door??). I did go to the beach one day but I dread that moving contraption – it frightens me. The beach was fun but I do not like getting my paws wet.

Well that’s all for now – take care and thanks again for our companionship during my time of need and I hope you all end up in a great happy home like me. A last and special thanks to all the volunteers – keep up the good work. We always need good caring people like you to make us happy and to feel special again. Especially after we have been hurt or abandoned for no fault of our own.

Thank You

Chilli (Diva)

Sheldon comes out of his puppy shell

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:32:00 +1100

Sheldon (before known as Axe) has been with us since August 2011...As a puppy he was a little shy and reserved but that all got sorted out at puppy school where he meet lots of nice friends and learnt how to socialise and a few tricks.

He is now 8 months old and loves going in the car for drives (you can't get him out!), and going to the dog park- where he once escaped and kept running, loves his big backyard which has a sandpit and shell pool which he loves to splash around in and drink out of, loves chasing moths and flies (really anything that moves and looks exciting) he could do it all day if he could.

We now have a dog trainer to help build up his skills with certain areas.

He enjoys going to play with george (labrador), manu (pug) and has falling in love with his girlfriend coco :) who he always runs up to when he is at the park, wagging his tail very fast when he sees her.

He has been a different personality of a dog that we've have before, but we've enjoyed the moments.

From Geddes Family xoxo

Help your pooch have a happy Australia Day too!

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:45:00 +1100

The Dogs’ Refuge Home is urging all pet owners to please leave your dog at home and inside with plenty of fresh water this Australia Day evening. Fireworks are extremely stressful to dogs and cause them to jump fences and run. The day after Australia Day is the busiest day for the pounds. Unfortunately, many dogs never make it to the pounds and are never seen again.

Also, please remember that dogs cannot last for more than ten minutes confined in a car in the weather we are currently having – even with the car windows down! Please leave your faithful companion at home this week, with plenty of shade and lots of water.

Pet Owners Beware

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:43:00 +1100

Please see this important notice from the Department of Environment and Conservation.

Linus is the perfect guard dog

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:37:00 +1100

Hello all....remember me? It's Linus! I would just like to extend a big thank you for all the care you gave me when I was with you.

My home is superb....warm bed, air conditioning, great meals and a loving owner. What more could a doggie ask for?! Of couse this is not all one sided...in return I provide protection from intruders (although my bite is nil....my bark can deter).

Just about ready for an afternoon snooze. Thank you to all the caring staff and all the woofers!

Linus

Christmas wishes from Coco

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 23:09:00 +1100

To all the staff and dogs and the Dogs' Refuge Home.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and thank you for helping us find our beautiful dog, Coco (previously Bella).

From Timmy (the cat), Bella and Coco (the dogs), Clare, Deb and Leon

Lily is the leader of the house

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 07:44:00 +1100

We adopted Lily (formerly Sophie) around 4/5 months ago and couldn’t imagine life without her! She settled in very quickly and is now the leader of the house. We originally gave her a section of the couch but she has since taken over the whole thing.

She loves playing fetch with her toys and would play tug-of-war all day if she could. She will even let us know when it’s walk time by dragging her leash to us and motioning for the door! She has become a regular at the local dog park and has made a lot of doggie pals, some even former refuge dogs like Lady the Wolfhound X (who is absolutely beautiful!) and other volunteers’ dogs. Lily loves going down to the river with her Uncle (Monty the Maltese) to chase birds and go for a paddle.

She is such a friendly and happy dog who will follow us around the house even if we’re just going upstairs. She loves her cuddles and is very affectionate.

We are so happy to have adopted her as she has made such a difference to our lives already and we love her so much. Thank you for all of your help and for doing such a wonderful job with these dogs. They all deserve a second chance!

Jemma and Cameron

Sharlie..one week on

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 06:29:00 +1100

Sharlie, now known as Milo is settling in well to our family, she is signed up for puppy school, has been on numerous walks - some lead training definitely required, and is learning to fetch the ball. She gives and receives lots of cuddles, we are happy she is here.

Pez's first Christmas

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 07:44:00 +1100

We thought you might like to hear how Pez is going.

He has been with us for nearly two weeks now and has well and truly made himself at home. He is a huge hit with all our family and friends and even complete strangers he meets on his little walks, who always want to stop and say hello. He's such a cruisy boy, with just a hint of mischief, which keeps us entertained. He has been introduced to our vet and behaved impeccably (he knows how to turn on the charm!) and is booked in for obedience classes in January.

He had a great Christmas and enjoyed opening his presents and then playing with the wrapping paper. Attached are a few photos which we hope you enjoy.

Best wishes to you all for 2012 and thanks for introducing us to this wonderful dog.

John and Linda McKaskill

Jesse changes the lives of his new family

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 05:57:00 +1100

Jesse formerly known as Vespa has been in his new home for just over two weeks now. Me & my fiancé couldn't imagine life without him.

He loves going for walks, drives along the foreshore and playing fetch with his toys. He got very spoilt by our families at Christmas time and they all think the world of him.

He is quite clever with how well he can walk on his rear legs, especially when food is involved. He would have to be one of the most affectionate dogs we have ever encountered and he has no problem showing it.

He seems happy out & about or just chilling with us in front of the TV, he actually sits there watching if there are close up shots of people or animals.

He is a very loving dog and we think he is very well matched to us : )

Sincerely;

Hayley, Brant & Jesse Patroni

Finn's a full on boy

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 05:52:00 +1100

Peter and I love Finn and he loves us!

Finn is extremely sociable, loves his free runs at the beach. He is very full on, but is slowly calming down. He talks to us now with low sounding growls and woofs.

Thank you for all the good work you do there. We hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a successful New Year.

Peter and Claire

Kester turns over a new leaf

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 04:38:00 +1100

I have some news and photos of Kester (formerly Uzee) that I hope you might like.

I'm writing for the sake of the people who liked Kester when he was at the Home. He is doing really well and has become a wonderful dog. It's amazing what calm and assertive leadership can do for a dog as he had a few behaviour problems when he first arrived here 8 months ago. I could see his true nature through all of that and it was only a few months before those bad habits disappeared.

I think in another year or two he will be the perfect dog. I spend nearly all of my time with him when I'm not at work. We go for two walks a day. He comes as many places as possible in the car. We just avoid the hottest part of the day. I play games with him each day too. He comes to cafes and is the perfect customer. He loves the local pet supplies shop because the staff love him and they give him heaps of treats in return for sitting and shaking hands. He is such great company.

Hope you like the photos.

Isaac has a very merry Christmas

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 04:36:00 +1100

Can't believe Isaac has only been with us for eight weeks. He's doing well at training, and has put on weight and condition. Christmas was fun. Had to put presents out of reach as he wanted to open all the packages.

He still hasn't learnt to play with toys, although he stole the cats gifts I think he liked the smell of catnip. At last I managed to get them all together in a photo although it took a bit of bribery. We're bonding well, and yes maybe Isaac has been lucky, but we count ourselves blessed to have him,, He is a real joy, and so easy to care for (except for the hair!!!!!). He did try to steal a leg of lamb, but has quickly learnt that anything above his nose level is out of bounds. He's always ready for a walk, but doesn't fuss, and he LOVES the car.

Regards Mary Ann

Dexter's new best mater

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 08:05:00 +1100

Dexter wanted me to drop you a line to let you know he is loving his new home. He’s been with me around 7 months now (half his life) and feels like he’s been there forever.

He has got over his initial separation anxiety and fear of some people he had at the start and now he’s enjoying his training and days at the dog park playing with other dogs and people. He’s become the centre of attention for my household with a number of friends and family that come over specifically to see him. He has such a beautiful nature that people are lining up to look after him when I go away on trips.

Next year he’s going to start agility training which I think we will both love doing.

Thanks for helping me find my new best mate.

Cheers

Dasher has room to move

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 08:23:00 +1100

Last year in December we adopted Dasher the Whippet from your dog refuge. Dasher is absolutely gorgeous and is the big love of the family. He is very social and loves going to day care where he plays with his 4 legged friends.

We live on a 2.5 acres block, where he can run as much and as fast as he wants. Dasher also loves cuddles and kisses, and believe me, he is getting a lot of them.

Merry Christmas to you all, and keep up with he good work at the refuge.

Sylvie

Sati now travels in style

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 07:49:00 +1100

Thanks for looking after me.

While I prefer company I've decided to just get on with it and go to sleep when Anupo is not around. She takes me to the dog beach a lot and to the local parks where I can always get off the lead and run around with all sorts of other dogs. I'm not scared of anyone but those Great Danes look more like horses to me. Sometimes she takes me to work so I don't really have TOO much time on my own.

Today I got secured into Anupo's basket bicycle and she peddled me to the dog beach. I just lay down in the basket until we got there. In the car I sleep in the back seat until we get to where we are going so I'm just about a perfect dog but I will be going to doggie lessons in January with the RSPCA (Simone).

Merry Christmas to you and can you let everyone at the Dog's Refuge know that I'm happy and having lots of adventures in bush, parks and beaches.

Sati (and Anupo)

Give your last minute gifts to the dogs

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 06:48:00 +1100

We've all got those Christmas presents that we leave to the last minute, so why not give your last minute gift to the dogs?

By giving a Christmas donation to the Refuge, you will get a specially design Christmas card that lets the recipient know that a donation was made on their behalf this Christmas. It's a great idea for your last minute presents and all we ask is that a minimum donation of $15 be given.

You can make your donation and get your card from the Refuge office daily between 11am and 4pm.

I've still got Rex appeal

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 07:15:00 +1100

Rex here. Sorry I haven’t written in sooner but I’ve been very busy and I haven’t had time to get on the computer.

I’ve been with my Mum and Dad for about 10 months now and I’m having a ball! Not only do I have a mum and dad I also have loving grandparents who I visit every weekend. I get walked 3 times a day and the food here is great. I feel a lot calmer since I’ve been here and have learnt to socialise a lot more with people.. but I still have a bit of beef with the local cats because you know those cat…. they’re so up themselves.

Marnie and Michael (aka mum and dad) have been great parents giving me hugs and attention whenever I want; they were actually really easy to train, who said you can’t teach an old human new tricks. Anyway I would like to say hi to my aunty Mryna and my aunty Pat and the rest of the staff and volunteers at the Dogs Refuge Home.

Thank you for looking after me for sooooo long and believing in me that I would one day have a forever home like I have now.

Love

Rex