Indy (aka Crystal )

I wanted to send a couple pics of Indy (aka Crystal). She is doing very well and has come a long way! She is still very timid but is getting better. She is starting to play well at the off-leash area and just adores our other dog Peyton. She had some issues with separation anxiety at first but seems to be getting over that slowly but surely. I was looking on the website today and noticed that one of her babies is back. We would love to come out and visit with you and have Indy see her baby if she's still around Anyway, should run. I will keep in touch. Luv, Tanis, Corey, Peyton and Indy

Murdoch (aka Ernie)

Just some pictures of Murdoch, we have had him for about 3 months and we just love him!!!!! He goes to the local dog run and/or a walk everyday (most days twice), Murdoch has about 15 to 20 dogs he plays with and one cat.
Thank you for him
Fred and Debbie

Linus (aka Sherlock)

Naomi and I are enjoying our dog who's name we changed to Linus. He is doing really well... no health problems, well behaved, excellently house broken... he is one of the best at his obedience classes. He is right now at dog daycare having fun with some of his friends. He is a great addition to our family and we have lots of fun (and exercise). I am sending a picture of him
in the last few months.

Thank You & Have a nice day,Rajeev.

Jenny (aka Sassy)

I just thought I would give you a quick update on Jenny. She joined our family a year ago when she was about 6 months old. Her first few days with us were quite mellow as she was still recovering from being spayed. After she was feeling better, she quickly learned her housetraining and enjoyed playing with our kids, who were 2 and 3 at the time.

Although she is an extremely loving dog, she is very timid of anyone who is not part of her family. We believe this is due to her lack of socialization at the start of her life. We got some private, one-on one training for her to help her overcome her fears of everything unfamiliar. She has made great strides and is truly a wonderful pet and companion.

She is well loved and we are so glad that she is a part of our family.We were a bit surprised at Jenny's change of personality once we got her home too, but considering her terrible early experiences, it was quite understandable. She has really come a long way since we first brought her home. Even though we got her some private training, she will never be an outgoing, trusting dog with unfamiliar people, but when she is with her family and in her comfort zone, she is the most loving, affectionate, happy dog. She walks great on a leash, although she doesn't need one as she never leaves our side. When we first took her to the off-leash areas, she was very nervous of all the other people and dogs, but she is becoming more and more confident each time we go, and will even let strangers come within 5 feet of her. (This is a HUGE improvement. She used to run in the bush when a stranger would approach, and come out only after they had passed us). When I first started taking her for walks, the street traffic would stress her out, and anyone approaching on the sidewalk would send her into a panic. She is still very cautious of others while on our walks, but will not bolt off the sidewalk and take all of the leash to avoid them now. Small steps, but they all add up.

She is quite funny with her treats too. It has only been in the last few months that she does not go and stash them somewhere as soon as she gets them. She has been known to keep/play with a milk bone treat for 2 days before eating it. She will smell it and lick it, and savor it for a good day before deciding to eat it. She's smart as a whip too. I can ask her to go find her "treat", "biscuit" or "pig's ear" and she will know exactly which one I'm asking for, and go retrieve it from her one of her many hiding spots!

She really is quick learner and is very eager to please. I am hoping to get her involved in agility training or flyball in a year or two, if I can find the time. I'm sure she will really enjoy it, and I think it will help her a lot with her socialization.

We have a cat also, and they play chase all the time. LOL The cat pretends to not like it, but half the time she will start the fun. My sister has a little Yorkie/Pom cross, and they are the best of friends, so she gets to play frequently with another dog too :-)

Listen to me..... going on an on like a new Mom! LOL We all love her very much and couldn't imagine our family without her. I would also like to say "thank you" for working so hard for such a wonderful rescue organization. I have told everyone I know about SCARS and encourage them to adopt from you folks. Sincerely, Stephanie.

Cooper

Hi all it is me, Cooper

Well I have finally done it, I have found my forever home. Just thought I would let you know how I am doing. My new family along with 4 cats and my dog friend Scamper absolutely love me. My new mum and dad spoil me rotten . I have lots of toys, a bed, and get to go to the off leash park almost everyday. Grandma spoils me lots too. To show how much I care I collect all my favorite things and bring them to my bed, almost every night. Things like my mum's shoes, clothes, even the cat's beds. Just wanted to thank scars and especially Andrea for giving me a wonderful home. I can't think of any place I would rather be. Here's a pictures of me.

Love Cooper

Cooper (aka Kiya )

As promised I am finally sending you some pictures of my new kittens Benjamin (blue collar, aka Diego and Simon) and Cooper (green collar, aka Deuce and Kiya). I hope you can pick the best one out and put it on the update page of SCARS. They are 5 months old now and were neutered and microchipped last week, everyone at the vet loved them as they stayed overnight. The dogs with the cats are mine, Allie (yellow) and Duncan (black). The cats and dogs are doing well together, Benjamin is definitely adjusting better to them than Cooper. Cooper can still be a bit of a fraidy cat. I'm glad I was able to adopt two wonderful kittens from you, thanks for all of your hard work. Amber

Toby

Hi, my name is Toby; (I have kept my name that I was given) I was recently adopted by Barry, Janie, Brittany, and Curtis. My new family is very nice to me, they take me for walks, give me treats, and best of all they play with me and give me lots of attention.

Since I have been at my new home, I have discovered lots of new sights and smells. I like to sit and watch the birds as they whistle and move around in their cages, though I’m not to sure what to think about them and their not sure what to think about me either. They watch me with suspicion, not sure what I will do.

I have a new friend named Max; he is a lot older then me and has taught me many things. He’s taught me to speak when my masters tell me to in return for a treat. He has also taught me that it is better to go to the bathroom outside then in the house. In return for treats I will now shake my paw, speak, sit down, lay down and when told to. And they are currently teaching me how to roll over. I know not to beg for food, and when my family is eating at the dinner table, I know not to be in the kitchen.

I sleep on my mom and dads bed (taken over) with Max and I now wait until morning before I go to the bathroom. Since I have been here I have only had a few accidents in the house, but now, most times, I ask to go outside when I need to go.

I don’t mind the leash anymore, and Brittany has gotten me a bigger and better collar for me to wear. I am used to it now so it doesn’t bug me nearly as much as it used to.

In the morning when Janie is getting the kids up for school, I often follow her to their rooms and jump on their beds and help to get them up in the morning. A cold nose on warm skin is a good method, it works. Brittany and I often wrestle out in the living room; also we will play tug of war with all my toys.

When I am bored and want attention I will go up to a member of my family and bark at them and then they will know that I want to play. I don’t like strangers very much but I am deeply in love with my family and I get very excited when they come home from work, or from school. I love to run, whether it is to chase a toy or just because. I like to be out in the country running most of all, hiding in the tall grass and pouncing out of nowhere and surprising Max.

My favorite toys, by far have got to be bouncy balls and ice cubes. I push them around with my nose, I pounce on them, and I step on them with my paws so that they go zooming across the room and I chase after them.

When I first came here I was just a little shorter then Max, but now I am proud to say that I am twice his size, and the last time I was checked by the vet I was 33 pounds. I have been given the nickname Toblerone by Janie. Curtis likes to take my pictures

Brittany eats an apple every morning before she goes to school and one time she gave me a piece and I discovered that I really like apples. Since then every time she has an apple I wait patiently until it is almost gone and I help her to finish what is there, though I will eat almost any kind of fruit or food that they put in front of me. I have recently tried pineapple, and I found that I enjoy that too.

I also discovered that I like water. Janie was spraying the birds one day, and I wanted to know what it was and I got in her way and ended up being sprayed with the water. I like to try and bite the water out of the air, I think of it as a game. I don’t really mind baths though, I have had a few of them since I have been here and I don’t really care for them, though I do try to make it hard by getting out of the bath every now and then.

I also have a couple of other friends, one is named Boxer, he is the neighbor’s dog, and he is also a German Shepard cross. I also don’t know what to think of the neighbor’s cats, they don’t seem to mind me overly much, and as long as I don’t bug them they are fine with me. As for myself, I am curious but I don’t mind them much either. Love you all, Toby

Indiana (aka Scooby)

My name is Indiana but you may have known me as Scooby. I thought I would send you an update on my new life. Everyone admires my chin whiskers and you should have seen the number of presents I got when I came…Bones and toys oh my! Mom and Dad are determined to spoil me though they don’t always agree how. Dad is trying to make me into a fat lazy dog and Mom says “No way!” I personally like Dad’s idea better as I love my treats. Mom is always letting me sneak up on the couch and we both get scolded. Mom is big into cuddles and has no problem letting me sit on her lap whenever I want though she seems to have a problem with me sitting on her head in the morning! I’m just trying to wake her up! I’m very happy now and I am even helping to foster another SCARS dog, Ramse. I keep him in line for Mom and Dad but I haven’t figured out how to open the door to let him out to the washroom yet…if I figured it out…I’ll let you know. Ta ta for now and please keep adopting from SCARS; they are great people and we are great dogs!

Benjamin (aka Simon )

As promised I am finally sending you some pictures of my new kittens Benjamin (blue collar, aka Diego and Simon) and Cooper (green collar, aka Deuce and Kiya). I hope you can pick the best one out and put it on the update page of SCARS. They are 5 months old now and were neutered and microchipped last week, everyone at the vet loved them as they stayed overnight. The dogs with the cats are mine, Allie (yellow) and Duncan (black). The cats and dogs are doing well together, Benjamin is definitely adjusting better to them than Cooper. Cooper can still be a bit of a fraidy cat. I'm glad I was able to adopt two wonderful kittens from you, thanks for all of your hard work. Amber

Tessa

I’m Tessa.

Mine is a distant memory of how I was left alone to perish. I remember it wasn’t long before the despair set in and I became very depressed. It was November and getting colder and the days were shorter. It didn’t take long before I finally gave up and curled up in a ditch worrying about what was to become of me.

With the noise of a vehicle, I lifted my head and there was my angel, a lady with soft eyes and a caring smile. She was patient with me as I was very scared….but something in her voice said to go with her. In her car I jumped, not knowing where or what was to happen to me. She was stopped on the road by a couple of men out looking for me, but it was only later I knew that they were looking to shoot me and that I had escaped with my life by minutes.

I’m now in my forever home with my forever family. I wasn’t up on the site very long so some of you reading this may not remember me. However, I became a Second Chance dog and look at me now! I went from a wayward stray to graduating class with honors. Going to school was great fun and I learned so much. Thanks to Kim, my trainer, and my mom who worked with me through some of my issues. I know that there’ll never be bad times for me ever, my days are filled with fun, love and contentment. My only words to all homeless and abused animals are …..

I believe there are angels among us.

Sent down to us from somewhere up above.
They come to you and me in our darkest hours.

To show us how to live, to teach us how to give.
To guide us with a light of love. (Alabama)

Thank you to Sylvia and all the volunteers at Second Chance…who truly are our angels.

Steve (aka Melvin Comes With Spots)

When my family adopted me back in November, I was a really shy little guy...only about 20 lbs. When they would take me for a walk, I would stop every 5 metres or so and wait to be coaxed along. The city was a pretty unfamiliar place to me. My family worked really hard to build my confidence and to socialize me around people and other dogs and now I'm a happy-go-lucky 9 month old 45 lb puppy. I completed Beginner obedience classes with my friend Rufus and I love going to the dog park. My favorite thing to do on a walk is to climb all the hills in the river valley becauseI have tons of energy! I am a very smart boy. I have learned to ring abell when I want to go outside, and I love to play fetch and show off my repertoire of tricks (my favorite is high-five). I'm hoping to start agility training in the spring.

I love my family very much, and like to cuddle with them on my couch in the
evening after a long walk.

Rrrrrrrruff!
Steve Born with Spots (aka Melvin)

Nova (aka Sydney)

The past 3 months have flown by.

Life is great now with my daily walks and my many attempts to catch a moose or a deer.


So far I haven’t caught anything, but I’m still trying!
My pack mate, Shannon ensures that I’m never left alone and often uses cuddling me as an excuse to avoid chores but who am I to complain.


Life is great.

Sabre

Like to thank you for your help in bringing Sabre "home". We really appreciate the background information and advice you gave about our pound puppy which we found lacking here in Edmonton (Second Chance really cares where their dogs go and about their welfare which is evident when we talked to see if Sabre was a "fit" in our family).

Sabre has adjusted well since August 05 as he is smart (he house-trained quickly although there were some booboo's or should I say poopoo's) and we are slowly bringing him out of his scared shell where he was hidden. We showed him patience and love and he has returned it ten-fold.


His tail is constantly wagging up high rather than tucked under his behind and we have seen a playful, energetic friend emerge. His peeing when excited problem has disappeared. Sabre now has the run of the house even when we are not home and enjoys drives in the car, his daily walks ,sleeping at the end of our bed and bones, treats and chew toys (he is a chewing machine!).


As you predicted Jan, Sabre is quite adapted at "socializing" in dog parks here in Edmonton although it took some obedience training classes and consistency. Thanks again for your help. Hope this letter offers you some hope that you are making a difference
Regards, Calvin, Karleen and Sabre

P.S we kept his name the same even though it sounds like a ten yr old dreamed it up because to us he's always been Sabre

Ruby Tuesday

Hi everyone at SCARS
It's me Ruby, I have been so carried away at my new home I forgot to write to you. I am having so much fun here, My Mum Emma takes me out to the off leash where I can play with all my friends and then we get to go to the pet store so I can pick out a favorite toy. My Grandpa doesn’t like me to bring home the stuffed toys because I seem to get fluff all over the house. I don’t know what he is talking about I would never do something like that..wink wink.
My grandma is also a foster to many different dogs so I help her by keeping the other puppies out of trouble by playing with them and tiring them out so they sleep.
I have learned so much since I have come to my new home. I am now fully house trained so good my mum catches me in the litter box at times…lol. I eat in the morning and in the evening and I am the only puppy that eats all my food so I always get a special treat. I also look forward to my baths and wearing my new sweater out to the off leash everyone thinks I am just sooo cute (it helps me get more treats).
I look at myself on the old scars posters and I have not change one bit. My legs are getting very long but I am still very slender. Well I must run I just wanted to let you know what I have been up to and I thankyou so very much for putting me in this loving home.
Ruby Tuesday

Kootenay (aka Freddy)

Here is Kootenay Freddy Smith...

the vet says that he is now 6 months and is 33.5 lbs.


He is an exceptional dog.... he went to Vancouver for Xmas and saw the Ocean for the first time....went on the fairy to Victoria.....visits the ski hill frequently....and goes to the doggy park
daily to play with his friends.


We couldn't have asked for a better dog.
He has been a perfect fit and continues to bless our lives.
Thanks again....Debora and Evin.

Diesel

Hi everyone at SCARS…
It’s me Diesel, otherwise known as Deez, or rotten dog, or an array of other words that I have yet to figure out…
Just wanted to write in and let you know how things have been going for me over the past year.
Food – did you know that you can clean out a bowl of dog food in 33 seconds! It has been done. Can you spell Pepto Bismol!
Ame – my big sister, she didn’t really want anything to do with me, but now she has too! For some reason she lets me push her around now…I want to be the boss, sort of.
Bravery – I think I am brave, however I find from time to time, I too can become very shy.
Gram – I just love when she visits, cookies all around!
Bed – great place to sleep once I can sneak on during the night. I do get told to go and sleep with Ame on our bed, but it just isn’t the same.
Kennel (aka, house) – I have become partial to my house, since I have to go in there from time to time. I actually don’t like anyone else going inside.
Snow – discovered it is just about the best thing in the world next to water – oh and food. I love running in the snow with my mouth open, it’s great until you find the yellow stuff.
Christmas – uneventful, I did get some great toys though.
Spring – mud and rocks are good to eat, not so good when you have to go to the Vet to make sure they pass though. Sticks are good fiber also.
Summer – camping is cool, but the lake is way cooler! I just love to run in the sand and have the water splash up onto my tummy. Wah hoo!
Water – I love the sprinkler and my pool… ahhh the good life… I tried to bring the sprinkler into the house this Summer, got as far as the kitchen and mom freaked out!
Fall – catching leaves before they hit the ground is great, you need focus… which I can only do for a short time, too many other things to do.
Winter again – well, where is the SNOW? I’m waiting…
Well, that is pretty much how things have been, I have a wonderful family who spoil me rotten, I’m pretty lucky, as each night my mom tells us about the homeless dogs and we say a prayer for them.
Thanks again for rescuing me! Diesel (Deez)

Buddy

Hi! It’s me…Buddy! I’m the big handsome guy and that's my obsessive sister, Maude in the other picture. We’ve been together for almost a month now. I’m writing to you from my forever home where my folks think I’m one of the finest dogs ever. Right from the day I first came here I knew that I had come home to stay.

Sylvia and I had a long trip to get here and I was very tired that first night. I tried to stay awake (because I always want to make sure I’m doing the right thing), but pretty soon I fell asleep sitting up. My Pa showed me my special bed and I snuggled right in. Now bedtime is one of my favourite times of the day because all my family is together in one room.

Routine is very important to me so during the days this is what I do: I go for a long walk in the morning. Ma is teaching me to walk nicely. I get better at it everyday and love to hear “Good Boy!”. She calls me Buddy the Wonder Dog! Then I have peanut butter and toast for breakfast. I have to gain some weight so I’m getting a few extra treats.

After I practice my “Sit” and “Down” and “Stay” I get to relax for the day. I hang around with , Maude, who helps me not to worry. She’s a Border Collie so she’s somewhat finicky about things. She corrects me if I do something too, too goofy, but she likes me anyway and gives me lots of kisses and reassurance.

I understand now that my Ma and Pa will always come home after work. Then we have lots of hugs and lots of supper. After supper we play catch with a crazy ball that bounces every which way. We had to quit playing with it in the house as goes flying into the dining room and bounces off the walls. (I thought that was the best part!) After I’m worn out I sit down by Pa to watch TV.

Although I’m a big boy I’m not all that brave. We don’t play games that are too loud anymore. Sometimes I get scared if folks make loud noises (like cheering and clapping when I am playing Hide & Seek). Then I have to run away to my bed as fast as I can. And frankly, I only barely lived through having a bath and getting my nails cut. Ma says I’ll feel better about it next time. I’m starting obedience school tonight and that will give me more confidence.

I’ve met my cousin dog, Sunny, already. She is a rescued Greyhound who comes to visit and who likes to have sleepovers. We run and play until we cannot go another step. I have lots of other relatives, both kids and grownups. They have all been coming to meet me and they think I’m a pretty nice guy. I am so gentle I don’t even knock the toddler kid over.

Ma and Pa think I have the sweetest face and the sweetest disposition. Nobody knows where I got it. I was a stray and now I’m a pet. We all thanks SCARS for putting my photo on the internet so that Ma and Pa could pick me. I’ll keep in touch!

Love from your old Buddy.

Jacque (aka Jock)

This is Jacque, once known as Jock. He has become a big part of our family (really big!) and we love him very much. Jacque is almost 7months old and weighs in between 65 - 70 pounds and is getting bigger. We expect that he still will get a little bigger as, if left to him, he would eat until he explodes. Jacque also has strange eating habits as he will try to get his paws on most fruit and vegetables. Speaking of paws, we checked his early pictures and decided that he completely decieved us - his paws just weren't that big as a little guy. I think a burgler would have second thoughts after seeing the huge paw-prints in our backyard...

Jacque is now a creature of habit, demanding a walk before I can hit the snooze button in the morning. On weekends we regularly attend the off-leash areas - he does not seem to run out of energy until back in the van. Absolutely no problems with other dogs, in fact he is a very sociable creature. He is quite good on-leash and is starting to learn to heel - quite a quick learner. We can't wait to take him camping this year but if he gets any bigger we may have to upgrade our trailer!!

He's very smart and is wonderful with the kids. The kids love him back and they all are now very bonded, to the point where we have to establish rules about dogs on beds.

As you will tell from the pictures he is either a husky or malamute cross. We get regular compliments on how good he looks. If you look at the pictures you will see that Jacque's puppy black nose seemed to split into pink as he got older. You can really tell how big he's gotten by looking at him in his bed, which he has seriously out-grown in addition to the two collars, the puppy bowls, etc. etc...

Overall Jacque has been a wonderful addition and we thank you and SCARS for bringing him into our family. *Dan and Tina

Moe

We just wanted to let you know that Moe is doing great and we are enjoying every minute with him.

He has brought Bear out of his shell and they are best buds. He has really livened up our household although the cat would probably disagree. Moe harasses him daily, ha ha! One funny note is we can't believe how much Moe has grown. He's tripled in size and is quite long. He doesn't look that small besides Bear anymore. My girlfriend teases me that he's part St. Bernard!


Moe is a very bright, outgoing/carefree dog and full of love. He's a great addition to our family and we love him to pieces! Even when he barks in the middle of the night!! (What a great guard dog)

Mieszko (aka Lexus)

About one year ago, I adopted a puppy from your organization.

Her name was Lexus, and I was very excited to bring her home and welcome her to my family.

One year later, she is still as wonderful as the day she came home, I thought I'd share a few pictures of her now. She goes by the name "Mieszko" now, and she's happy as can be.

Just thought I'd send a happy little note in thanks,

Take care Vyky

Ranger

Hi Everyone,
Just thought that I would send you a picture of Ranger. As you can tell he is still as beautiful and "bear" like as ever. I meant to send them earlier in the month seeing as how this is his month on the calendar and I thought it might be neat for you to see how he has grown.

Again I can't thank you enough for Ranger he truly is the most amazing dog ever. Everyone who meets him even if they don't like pets ends up falling for him. I have even been offered some money for him! We have gotten another edition to our family our mastiff "Bizmark". Ranger is awesome with him. It is a family joke that we refer to Ranger as "The good dog" and Bizzy is the "special one" (if you know what I mean). We will be starting agility with Ranger in october.

So I guess that is all I just wanted to update you and say thanks again so much from the bottom of our hearts our life wouldn't be the same with out our special Rangie. Keep up the great work everyone. You do make a huge difference not only in the animals lives who you save but in the peoples lives who get these very special animals. Take care....

Stella (aka Dotty)

Hello!

I thought it was time for another update on Stella (a.k.a Dotty) or "Gorgeous" as she is sometimes known. She is 5 months old and is doing wonderfully. She graduated from obedience puppy training at the top of her class, is well behaved on a leash, is amazingly intelligent, and is the most accomplished puppy in the world at knocking over all the plants in her house.

Stella has a big extended family that loves her and lives to spoil her and let me tell you, this dog was born to be spoilt. Her first Christmas passed relatively uneventfully with the exception of the discovery that she loves to "help" open presents ...unfortunatly the presents she was opening weren't hers and it was a week before Christmas.

Stella will be starting agility training in the Spring, mainly to keep her healthy, active, and her mind stimulated. One day soon we hope to extend our family with another dog adopted from SCARS. Stella is very much looking forward to this day since the cat really isn't into running around the yard like a maniac. Thank you again for helping us find our little pup.

Nikita (aka Lynnette)

I just wanted to give you a quick update on how Nikita (aka Lynnette) is doing. She has adjusted very well to our family and has become best friends with out older dog Sandy. Sandy is doing all the work of training Nikita, and our very smart girl is catching on very well. Nikita is slowly getting used to her leash however she is still a little scared of it. I was so proud last night when she made it halfway around the block!! She is a wonderful little puppy and I couldnt' be happier with her.

Thank you so much for all the hard work that all of you at Scars do for these animals. It is very clear how much effort, and love you put into helping them. Again Thank You for all your hard work,

Kaylee (aka Khale Jan 2006)

Hello everyone! It's me, Kaylee of the Yukon - formerly known as Khale.

I am happy, happy, happy with my forever family, and now I finally feel like I belong to the pack. There are so many in my pack, it took me a while to get to know everyone! My dog sister, Mati, and I are good friends. We even snuggle together when we think no one is looking. She's taught me some really cool tricks - barking at the mailman is fun! So is mooching for treats! She's trying to teach me how to howl like a wolf, but so far I just sound like a Canada goose. I'm working on it, though.


They don't follow the same schedule that I was used to when I came here. I paced and paced and nagged and nagged, but they wouldn't listen to me, so I finally gave up and relaxed. Know what? Relaxing is fun! There's always a surprise waiting for me - it could be a long walk on Whyte avenue, or a rip around "Wigglers" Park. It could be a new juicy bone to chew, or my friend the squirrel to chase up the tree. Some days, I just get to be lazy and snuggle on my bed, or Mom and Dad's bed if they're not looking. Sometimes I have sleepovers in my kids' beds, too, but it's hard to sleep in the middle when the kids push me over.


I'm learning to trust everybody in my family to come home again when they go away, and they usually bring treats when they come back. I'm also learning to eat all kinds of tasty foods - I really like carrots now, and broccoli stems, bananas, red peppers, buttermilk (mmm! I love
buttermilk), tuna, butternut squash, peanut butter toast crusts, tiny knobs of cheese (wish they could be big knobs of cheese!)


All this good eating and cozy sleeping helped me to grow! My mom says I'm 2 inches taller and
15 - 20 lbs. heavier than when I came to live here. I weigh 58 lbs. now - all beautiful girlie muscle, thank you very much.


It took me a while to get used to being in the house - so many noises and things that move! Now, I'm not quite so scared of the vacuum cleaner, or the exercise ball ( I like balls, but that big thing is ridiculous!) and I finally let the family rub my belly.


Thanks to everyone who took such good care of me while I was waiting to find my family. Maybe I'll see you at the off leash sometime, but don't expect me to stop for more than a quick sniff, because I love to run like the wind.


I hope that Santa and his reindeer bring you all lots of Christmas joy - I wonder what he'll put in my stocking? Mom has to put the stockings up really high and block off the Christmas tree because guess what - I also learned how much fun it is to chew everything I can get my pretty doggie teeth on! Oh, and I get into the garbage, too. Mom says I'm teaching my kids to be much neater with their things! Well, that's all my good news for now!
Lots of love and doggie hugs from Kaylee

Loki (aka Buffy)

Update on Loki. (aka Buffy)
She's growing like a weed. Housetraining is not going as well as I would have hoped but that's mostly because she is soley my 16 year olds responsibility and its really a training process for both of them.

There have been a few bloody noses, but she and Amaru the cat have found some form of a truce. She adores Taipan, my Akita, and I am very very happy to say that he enjoys her, although sometimes I think he is just baffled by her exuberance and he acts quite grandfatherly around her.

Again thanks for all you do!

Tacoma (aka Vixon)

Hey Everyone at SCARS!
Remember me???
I came in near-staving with my mom, last December. You called me Vixon, but I’m now Tacoma.

Life is good – lots of love, walks, hiking, snowshoing, and even spent an afternoon in a kayak last summer.
Thanks Sooo Much for the rescue, and for connecting me with my new family!

Maggie (aka Allie)

It’s me Allie. I not only have a new home with great humans and a new playmate, but also have a new name. My new name is Maggie. I just wanted to let you know that I have settled into my new home and am quite the cute little character. You were right when you said I would be a handful. I got my human’s number right off the bat and kept them up every night for the last 5 weeks. They finally took a stand and put earplugs in so they could get some sleep at night. After the second night, I finally caught on and am quiet until about 6 am.

I have had both my first and second set of shots and am a very healthy little girl. I have doubled in size and weight since December 3rd. My human’s had a good talk with the vet about me getting them up at night and she said it was good that they finally put a stop to it as I am more than old enough to hold it through the night.


I was also having some house training issues that were frustrating my humans to no end. They we were sending me some mixed signals according to the vet, so I am now in a more structured routine, including my feeding and peeing/pooping schedule. They call this crate training?


The first week in my new home, I scarfed my food so fast you would have thought I was starving. I eventually slowed down and was self feeding, but the vet said not to do this, so I am now on a feeding schedule. This is to help with the house training issues as well.


I really like my new playmate, Missy, and have become good friends with her. We like to wrestle on our human’s bed, play tug-o-war with all our toys and race around the house. I also have a nice backyard to play in. I am sending you a picture of me and Missy that was taken two days after coming to my new home. So, please don’t worry about me. I love my new home; my new playmate and my human’s too!!


Love Maggie (Allie)

Chinook

Hannah & Meisha (aka Flower)

Casey

Joe

Hi there. Thought that I would give you some updated info on Joe.

He is doing great and a wounderful addition to our family. We have singled out a few medical problems that he has and is doing great. Those cysts on his foot, well those turned out to be broken procupine quills. They actually festered and pushed out except one that the vet took out. He was having some skin issues and putting on a lot of weight. After a complete check up, he is diagnosed with hypo-thyroidism. That is a big factor on him sleeping so much. So now he will be on meds for the rest of his years and all problems should be taken care of. Small price to pay for such a great guy.

Traveling is not his thing. I can relate, I also get car sick. He is content at home, he knows where he lives and has not left. His friend, our other dog Kaya and him are not often apart and get along well. I have forwarded a picture and will send more when he is 100% again. I have a wounderful vet who is helping us get him back to normal and we are so thankful for him. Thank you again for this light in our home and wish you all at the shelter a Merry Christmas and the best in the New Year! Theresa and Joe

Sadie (aka Blackie)

Update #1
I wanted to provide an update on a kitten, Blackie (now Sadie), that I got through Scars in July. She is such a joy to have around and a ham to say the least. She loves to play hide and seek and stalk our feet. Sadie loves to run around during the day, but at night cuddles and purrs all night long. I sent along some pictures of her in an empty raisin bran box that she jumped right into and curled up in.

There is also one of her playing with a Safeway bag. She loves bags of any sort. Thank you so much for all of the hard work your volunteers do to give animals like Sadie a second chance. I very much appreciate it .

Update #2 (Dec/05)
Sadie is still doing excellent. She is a feisty little girl who loves to play hide and seek and pounce on anything that is moving. She is a cuddle bug though and loves to sit and chat. I am so happy to have her around and can't say thank you enough for all of the hard work your volunteers do to help out animals like Sadie and so many others. It really does make such a difference.

Thank you again,
Alanna and Sadie

Lola (aka Honey)

We adopted “Lola” (originally “Honey”) from your rescue shelter this past October. We were excited to get a new puppy but could not have anticipated how much joy she has brought into our home.

Lola has a beautiful personality and everyone who meets adores her. We feel like she has been a part of our family forever, and want to thank-you for the wonderful service you provide by taking care of dogs like Lola who for some reason have been cast aside.

We have done a lot since she has come home with us – lots of playing, walks in the off-leash parks, and recent graduation from obedience school! We have discovered she is a bit of a digger (no one’s perfect!) and also an escape artist (but we now have a fortress for a dog-run).

Thanks again Second Chance – We tell everyone we know who is looking for a dog about you!!!
Love Alexis, Roger, and Lola

Buddy (aka Flippin)

It's me Buddy (used to be called Flippin ); my adopted parents decided on the name Buddy even though I'm still flippin cute, Buddy seems to fit. I could've been named Moses which was their first choice but apparently it’s very difficult to scold someone named Moses - go figure- uh uh not that I would ever need scolding :)

Anyway I am very happy with my new parents they love me to pieces and spoil me a lot. I've already traveled to Saskatchewan to meet more relatives and was cuddled and played with a lot. I travel very well - nothing to it just sit there and be catered to all the way - oh life is soooooo hard.

I've met my adopted sisters and their kids; boy I tell you, a guy could go crazy with all these girls around kissin' and huggin' a guy - good thing I have my adopted Dad around or I'd probably be wearing a dress or something when the "grandkids" come over. eewww!

I've learned many things - I can "sit" "rollover" "getit" (like fetch ya know). I'm working on my down and no bite thing - little difficult but I think I'll have it mastered soon. They say I am almost house broken so why do I have to sleep in the kennel, can't wait till I pass this test so I can sleep on that big bed with my new Mum and Dad.

Another thing I am learning is that the big oak table and chair set is NOT my chew toy! I was sure they had got that especially for me along with all the other toys.

My new Mum says thank you very much to all of you at SCARS for rescuing and letting me come and live with my new parents. Oh and she says that my name should really be "Tude" cause I have lots of it whatever that means. Bye for now, Buddy

Zeus

(web-poster note: could not locate pictures referred to but have one of Zeus)

Here are the pictures of Cindy and Zeus with their new family. Everything is going great and they are wonderful additions to the house.

The pictures of Cindy show her on her favorite couch where she waits for Karen to come home from work so she can go for her evening walk.

The pictures of Zeus are one of the few when he isn't running around all over the place.

The family picture shows Cindy, Karen, Keya, Zeus, Sarah and Sneaker. Sneaker and Keya are adjusting to the new kids in the house although for a few days did have their noses out of joint.

They will be 14 in October, but run around after the other two as if they are puppies. Quite a handful when all 4 go out for walks at the same time.

Chloe

At first we were worried about Chloe not warming up to us given what happened on her first night with us. She was very shy at first but now she is a regular part of our family. She loves to sleep on the bed with us and always curls up on the couch with her favorite pillow. She loves to run in the back field with our other dog and always comes when called. She particularly enjoys the off-leash park and bird sanctuary near our house. She loves her new home and is everything we wanted in our new dog.

You would also be pleased to know that she is very smart. In just a few weeks she learned how to sit and lay down. We are working on “stay” and “heel.” All in all she is a little bundle ofenergy and joy. She enjoys stealing our other dog’s toys to get him to play, and often they wrestle and play together in the yard. She has even been teaching our other dog how to hunt birds, so birds beware….

Thank you so much for everything you did that first night. Chloe is a wonderful addition to our family and we all love her so much. We have attached a picture of Chloe for you to see how well she is doing.

Best regards,
Mike, Cassie, J.D. and Chloe

Peanut

I have been wanting to email you for some time about how Peanut is doing. I adopted Peanut a year ago from Sylvia's care. I knew Peanut would need patience and understanding from the abuse she had endured.

She is doing wonderfully and is such a great addition to my home. Peanut looks a fair bit different than when she was taken in by SCARS. She is quitered in color and actually has a curly tail and one ear that sticks up. When she first came to me she was so timid but now she does the "happy dance"when I come home or even when I come downstairs.

Though I doubt Peanut was ever in a house before she came to me she is very comfortable being inside and has made my living room couch her own. She has made friends with my cat, Myia, and is learning how to play with other dogs at the off leash parks. Toys and balls are still a mystery to her and sticks continue to scare her but she is a good listener and is even able to do a few tricks. Although she still lacks trust in strangers she is noticeably better and has started to show some affection to those she sees frequently.

I would like to thank SCARS for rescuing this wonderful dog andproviding me with the joy Peanut brings me every day. Sincere thanks, Anne

Harper

Hiya! It's me Harper and it's been, like a person year since I last saw the awesome people at SCARS!!! Did you miss me? My puppy-but-almost-grown-out-of-puppy person told me that my friend Mayor got a good home. Good thing, 'cause i wouldn't want to see him sittin' at SCARS the rest of his life.

In my family there are two little puppy people (they used to pull my ears and fur but I very patiently taught them not to with a few gentle nips), a big puppy person (he likes playing with me and I trained him to play fetch with him fetching), a puppy-but-almost-grown-out-of-puppy person (she plays with me in the mornings and lets me run around in the yard. She tries to catch me and I play the winner), a mom person (she lets me sleep in my own bed-right beside hers!) and a dad person (jeez...you never can train those dads to stay home...). We used to have a bit of a cat problem, which I very bravely terminated. Kinda. Sorta. Not Really. It ran away. I was good throughout the entire process. *shudder* Moving on.....

See,Sylvia, I used to have this problem where my people would go away for the day. Even my most beggingest eyes couldn't keep them home. They started bringing tasty things home so I had to play Mr. Nicedog. But some night, I'll be lying in my bed (upside-down) and I'll hatch up a plan.....(Well it's comfy upside-down!) I have another problem. Sometimes me and my people family go for a walk and we visit some friends. They have people and dogs. There are two pups and one older one. But even the pups are bigger than me!!! And they are all girls!!! It is simply nauseating!!! But that makes me think about last summer when I spent a few weeks at a dog sitter's place. Well...they had this cheeky little thing (a chihuahua) that told me I could try his bed out..well I didn't fit but the sitters caught me and took a picture and THEY SENT IT TO MY PEOPLE!!! These people are just so wierd sometimes!

Well, I could go on for ages about my first year. My jingly ball presents for Christmas, my trips to the groomers, the train incident (umm...embarrassing!), the sprinkler thing, oh it's just too good! Well, I can't say it all but I've GOT to tell you! My puppy-but-almost-not person sometimes comes home smelling like you guys! I just don't get it!!! It's like, freaky! I don't know, but I better go. I can't talk forever, so the last thing I'll tell you is that my birthday was decided to be May 27. My people decided. Okay, I really should go! Hope all the dogs get as great homes as I did! See ya! -Harper

Penny

Penny has added joy to our life following the sudden death of our other dog.

She is becoming quite comfortable around us in particular the children. She is very quiet but when she bounds up the stairs after our son with her tail wagging and that 'I'm here' look in her face, she is extremely expressive.

She enjoys the off leash area behind our house. We are not quite sure what would happen if the deer which frequent the area commonly were to make an appearance - I suspect her 'come when called' would win out - I hope.

She is very patient while we are at work/school. She waits patiently in the front window surveying the activity in the street. She has also developed a love of the leather sofa in the front room. It's a tough life!!!

Thanks for all your support.

Sammy

Just wanted to tell you how much we love Sammy
He is being SUCH A GOOD BOY-- we absolutely adore him. He has such a wonderful personality.
We had a birthday party for Ben this weekend with 36 guests of all ages and Sammy was the social butterfly. He casually went over to each guest for a pat on the head. He was so well behaved and calm--everyone wanted to know where we got this fantastic dog and nobody could believe we'd only had him a week and that he had been a stray / rescue dog. He retrieved balls and played with the kids and when it was all over fell asleep sprawled out on his back with a belly full of hotdog :-)
I'm glad we took the leap of faith and made him part of our family. He is everything you said he was and more.
Thanks
Heather

Marvin

It was a cold day with many new people and a long drive from Westlock to Edmonton. He didn’t want to eat and although he was curious about the cat, he just needed a rest.

Marvin went in for his check up with the Holistic Vet and we found out he had a broken pelvis to go along with his many war wounds. He was a pretty sore guy but a real trooper!

Weighing in at a measly 15 lbs, all ribs and backbone, he is now a solid, muscular 21 lbs! He is in dog school and hopes to graduate into agility. He lives with his friend Palaver and went from many scratches on the nose to sunbathing buddies. He is still timid about the vehicle and some people, but has come a long way.

Thanks again for your hard work and the up keep of your website so animals like Marvin have a second chance.

Farleigh (aka Sailor)

We have renamed Sailor as "Farleigh" which is near where we used to live in England. It seemed to suit her and she is getting used to it. She is a lovely dog and as you can see has settled in very well. She loves the space we have to explore and has teamed up with Tasha, our GSD, on trips across the field next to us. She has caught several mice in the garden - both before and after the snow melted! When we had snow, she enjoyed rolling and tunnelling with her head right under the snow.
She is still chasing cars which pass our house which is a worry to us and we will continue trying to work out a way to put her off doing that. She seems to want to 'see them off' just as they go past the driveway. She loves walks up the trail in the woods and races to catch up with Fife, our Irish Setter, who goes ahead checking out the rabbit scents. She knows 'sit' now and comes to a whistle with enthusiasm. I think training her is easier because she follows what our other two dogs do. I think she is happy that she is with other dogs - she plays with Tasha a lot but Fife still isn't sure yet about playing.
Our little boy, Rordy, loves Farleigh because she is happy to be patted by him and doesn't mind if he wants to stroke her ears. When he has finished eating in the high-chair and back on the floor, he has been known to pick up dropped bits of food and take them over to Farleigh and she very gently takes the food from him so they are firm friends, which is lovely to see.
Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that Sailor aka Farleigh is doing well and is happy. I will try to keep you updated and send more pictures. *Liz