Videos, Videos, Videos! | Chandra

This Sunday I tried something new. Instead of taking one dog out of the shelter, I roamed around and did videos of lots of different dogs, hoping to make a compilation of adoptable dogs. After trying to film in playgroups (way too muddy and I'm not good enough with the camera to catch the zoomies), I found the PBSOC dog walkers and got some footage that way. And, of course, I ended up back in the photo room with Shannon, where I always love to hang out.

Two of the dogs I filmed were lucky enough to get picked up by their owners the same day, which left me with seven to edit. Too many hours later, given that I'm still pretty slow with iMovie, here's what I ended up with. (I still need to edit the compilation!) I'm hopeful that these "mini" videos will help the dogs and might even be better in our short-attention-span world.

Let me know what you think, and, of course, enjoy!

First up, Mr. Chill, Jeremy. He was the absolute best dog at his photoshoot, letting us dress him up and sitting very patiently for the camera. I was lucky enough to work with him again later in the day when Erin from Tug Dogs spent time with the PBSOC volunteers teaching us how to better work with the shelter dogs. He was a champ. Although he clearly hadn't spent much time on a leash, by the end of the session, Jeremy had figured out that when I changed directions, he should follow, not dig in his heels and stop. He also spent some happy time sitting on my lap getting a massage. Smart boy! And I learned, thanks to Erin, some good tricks to motivate a dog who isn't interested in treats. Win, win. (Update, Adopted!)

Next is Dorito. You can see by her one sticking-up-like-a-corn chip-ear where she gets her name! This girl looks a little stout, but she surprised me by being a wonderful jogging partner.

Monie is a love. And how cute is she in her "Adopt Me" bandana?

Buggy wins the award for cutest dog getting a belly rub ever. (Update, adopted!)

Josey will capture your heart with her sunshiney spirit. Costume changes are no problem for this roll-with-the-punches girl.

Shannon named Gracie after Grace Kelly, because she's such an elegant and graceful girl.

And lastly, with a super quick appearance and a mega watt smile, Marla. This girl is absolutely gorgeous with her grey brindle coat.

Lots of videos for a days' work. Fingers crossed that they help.

And, if for some reason you cannot see the videos, here are the YouTube links: Jeremy, Dorito, Monie, Buggy, Josey, Gracie, Marla.

xx

Chandra

Lately, and Justin | Chandra

It's been pretty tough at Bradshaw lately. So very many dogs, management/policy issues that are causing more pit bull type dogs to be euthanized, and saying some very difficult goodbyes to dogs that don't deserve to go. Everyone is feeling pretty battered and there's lots of talk of what we all would do if only we'd won that big Powerball jackpot.

Since none of us did win, we just have to keep on keeping on, doing the best we can each day. We have to remember that what we do helps the dogs, even the ones who don't make it out. At the very least they are loved before they go.

On the upside, there have been nice full groups of new volunteers being trained and new energy and enthusiasm and, frankly, bodies, are all very good things. There was a terrific long-lead training with Ann King that will help all the dogs learn to chill and bring their adrenaline levels down. There was a training with Tug Dogs to teach everyone to work with some of the more challenging dogs at the shelter. Apollo, Banjo, Bandit, Beatrix, Boo, Dopey, Jazmyne, Jo, Jose, Lulu, Mickey, Piper and Tango got adopted this week. And then, of course, there are the dogs themselves. The spunky, joyful, live-in-the moment creatures who lure us to Bradshaw even when we'd all just as soon drink a beer, or three, and never return.

Dogs like Justin. We took this boy to the river today, and, once again, he's a dog we'd take home ourselves if we could. He looks like Aussie's brother, he's a real charmer, and did I mention the kisses? Oh, yes, he's a lover, this one.

(If you cannot see the video below, view it HERE.)

Justin walks beautifully on leash, knows sit, is eager to please his humans and is uber affectionate. He loved the car ride and adores playing with polite female dogs. He has a super soft mouth when he takes treats, is attentive and responsive, and would be a true pleasure to teach things to. If you want a boy who just wants to be your very best friend, Justin is the one. Dogs like Justin are the reason we all volunteer. 

The only thing I know to do when things get especially difficult is to go back to the source. Back to these blocky, squishy, huge grinned faces, to the souls who live to love. Back to the dogs. Back to our hearts.

Update: Justin has been adopted!

xx

Chandra 

One Dog at a Time | Chandra

Last week, I wrote a post about the dogs who haven't made it out of Bradshaw and I know that it hit so many of you, hard. It is important to acknowledge our losses, but it is even more crucial to celebrate our successes. What we focus on grows.

All of us PBSOC volunteers fall in love with certain dogs. Each day a few more make their way into our hearts. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to see all of the new dogs each week that come into the shelter and it's easy to wonder if it's even possible to find them all homes.

Well, here's a little inspiration for you. This collage features just SOME of the dogs who have been adopted or rescued during the last four months of 2015. Did you catch that? FOUR MONTHS!  I only included dogs who had glamour shots so it doesn't even count the many, many dogs who went home before they had a chance to get a fancy picture. And even of the dogs with great photos, I can guarantee that this isn't everybody. And it also doesn't include the many dogs who are in foster homes right now, safe and happy.

If that doesn't make you think that we're doing some good, I don't think anything will. Look at all those beautiful faces, all of them safe and on to better lives.

The dog walks, the playgroups, the photos, the bios, the videos, the rescue networking, the fostering, the adoption events, the adoption counseling, the social media posts, the laughter, the emails, the hand wringing and the tears. They all lead to this.

One dog at a time. One volunteer at a time.

So, in the spirit of one, here's Apollo. We took him out on a field trip to the park today and made him a video. We petted him and snuggled in the back seat and fed him chicken. We laughed as he chewed up a tennis ball while nestled in a pile of leaves and let him sniff and explore all he wanted. We took him back to the shelter and put him in his kennel and then I edited. And now, we share.

Apollo, we wish you the very, very best. You are a fantastically good boy, with a silky gorgeous coat and a snuggly soft side. You deserve your forever family and we hope they will find you very soon.

(If you cannot see the video below, please view it HERE.)

So PBSOC folks, a big thank you for all that you do. One dog at a time, we're making a difference.

And if you aren't yet volunteering, we'd love to have you on board. You can find lots of info HERE.

Happy New Year!!

xx

Chandra

Update: Apollo was adopted!

Holiday Pet Portraits with Shannon | Chandra

What an amazing day we had yesterday.

Over eighty families came out to Bradshaw, pets in tow, in order to have portraits taken by PBSOC photographer Shannon Skalisky. I knew the day would be a big success, but even knowing how great Shannon is, it still managed to completely exceed my expectations.

The event was scheduled from noon to 4:00 and by 2:30 we had to start turning people away because of the incredible turnout. Some wonderfully patient people and animals waited nearly two hours for their turn, including one pretty miraculous cat who sat on a bench with his leash, surrounded by dogs.

It was a true group effort with so many volunteers taking part to make the day a big success. To get a little idea of what it was like, here's Chloe's Behind The Scenes video of the day. And I've gotta say, I'm pretty proud of her for this one.

(If you cannot see the video below, view HERE.)

One of my favorite moments of the day was seeing Birdie, now Dory, the very first dog we walked with PB SOC. Lysa used her as our demo dog on our first time out, and I cannot believe I recognized her. I actually said, "that dog looks like Birdie," and her owners said, "It is Birdie!" The best part is that Dory's family is just adorable and she has a dog sibling that looks just like her. Doesn't this group just make you smile? (Dory's on the right.)



We brought Aussie and Teddy early to get their pictures done, and honestly, Aussie was the craziest dog of the day. She was so excited to see everyone and jumped around and vocalized like a banshee. Teddy took one look at Sabrina in her floral headdress and started barking at her like she was going to attack him. I was a little dubious that we were going to be able to get anything at all.

But then I remembered, Shannon. And sure enough, she pulled it off. The photos are just beautiful and I cannot believe the huge grin on Aussie's face. And yes, Teddy chilled out as soon as Sabrina took her headdress off!

Here are just a few of my favorite photos from the day. To view the whole gorgeous album, visit HERE. Shannon truly outdid herself.

Because, this face!

This beauty fell in love with the candy cane.

Just looks like a wise soul.

Happiness.

Walks beautifully on leash!

This guy's name is Papas.

And for a little more good news, Raisin just went to a new foster home where she'll get lots of attention, and Dottie got adopted today! Happy Holidays!

xx

Chandra

Raisin's Sleepover | Chandra

I've been watching little Raisin on Lysa Blackketter's FB feed ever since she scooped the abandoned demodex puppy up and took her home. Raisin is aptly named...she is wrinkly and kind of blackish brown, where she isn't pink. Her demodex is getting better but she's still a patchy haired fuzzy girl with a few scabs.

Don't tell Raisin that though. She thinks she is just fine, and beautiful. (Which she is.)

Yesterday, we got to bring Raisin home for a sleepover and while I'm writing, she's sleeping beside me on the sofa, in her little polka dot sweater, with her tongue sticking out. Dreaming.

It's been a bit of a whirlwind with her here. Aussie has been great, willing to play and teach Raisin a little bit about being a polite dog. Teddy, however, will have none of it. He stands a few feet away from Raisin and barks at her and absolutely does not want her anywhere near him or Aussie. He's not too thrilled when I play with her either, but he just resorts to the stink eye for that. Mostly he's sulking on the stairs, staring at her with disgust. He has deigned to let her sniff him a few times but that's as far as he's taken it.

Having her here has made me realize just what a perfect match Aussie and Teddy are, and how lucky we got with bringing her home. She played Teddy perfectly...when they met she pretty much ignored him and made him come to her. Then when he sought her out, she quickly set up boundaries with him so that he knew exactly how she expected to be treated. She was sweet about it mostly, but very, very clear. Now he completely trusts her...they wrestle several times a day, with much gnashing of teeth and grabbing of necks, and they know exactly when to pull back and give it a break. They sleep next to each other in front of the fireplace, and she gets to choose which bed she wants first. He gives her little kisses on her ears and her nose. They walk side by side on leash and he doesn't get jealous when we give her attention. It's worked out really, really, well.

Raisin hasn't done anything wrong to deserve Teddy's disdain, she's just a puppy, and that's enough.

But what a delightful puppy she is. Lysa has taught her to sit for everything and the sight of tiny Raisin jumping around like a pink-clad bunny and then quickly sitting is enough to make you melt. The sit and then the sweet gaze into your eyes; she's so proud of herself for that quick sit. She loves her belly rubbed, follows you everywhere, and adores snuggling. She also sleeps all night long in her crate without so much as a whimper. She's going to make someone very, very happy.

Right now, Lysa's got her, but everyone is hoping for someone else to be able to step in and foster little Raisin, or foster-to-adopt (which means all of her medical expenses will be paid by PBSOC) or just adopt her right now. Lysa works full time and that's not the best situation for such a little one. In the meantime, I have a feeling she's going to have several sleepovers with the PBSOC crew in her future. She's just that adorable.

(If you cannot see the video below, please view it HERE.)


Let's get this girl home for Christmas. She'll look pretty cute in an ugly Christmas sweater! And when that hair grows in, watch out, she'll be an absolute beauty.

Update: Raisin found a new foster family very quickly, and they've since become her forever family.

xx

Chandra

Let's Celebrate Adoptions, and Gus | Chandra (Update: Adopted!)

What a very, very happy Monday.

I adore seeing PBSOC's Facebook post on Mondays with all of the dogs that were adopted the previous week and today was especially wonderful because there were so many who went home, Including two of my very favorites, Holstein and Harry Potter. When we did Holstein's video, I loved his tiny-bit-shy personality at the river and then his outgoing-comfortable-playful side in playgroups when we got back to the shelter. I got to see Harry Potter when Aimee Sadler was here teaching us all about Playgroups and fell fast for his sweet mug and short legs. Not to mention the lightning bolt on his back. But honestly, I am just as thrilled for the dogs I don't know personally because I know if I did have a chance to spend time with them, they'd crawl right into that space under my heart too.

A couple of weeks ago the PBSOC webpage was looking a little sad, filled with intake photos, because Shannon hadn't been able to keep up with all of the dogs that had come in. Thanks to her marathon session last Saturday, the page was absolutely transformed and it showed in the adoption numbers this week. Those photos, along with the skillfully written bios, make a huge difference in getting people to fall in love online with our dogs. It's all about the happy, about showing the great side of these wonderful dogs, not the down-on-their-luck moment when they first arrive at the shelter. It's about possibility and potential and shining the sun on their beauty and their quirks and their personalities. And Shannon does all of that with her images each and every time.

It truly takes a team to make PBSOC what it is, and what a team we have. From Delyse's fearless and tireless leadership, to Jamie Kain's beautiful words, to Laura Blickle's PR prowess, to all the hours put in by so many people running playgroups and walking dogs and attending adoption events and fostering and just loving these dogs, it's a real group effort. Sometimes I truly do have to pinch myself at how far Bradshaw has come since I volunteered years ago. Is there room for improvement? Of course. But every so often it's important to stop and reflect on the successes and bask for a moment in that light.

To share the happiness, here's this week's lucky PBSOC dogs who found their families:

And then, because we want this week to be just as fruitful, here's a little peek at the lovable, squishable, smooshable Gus. He loved us, we loved him, and he'll love you too. Let's get this beautiful boy home!

(If you cannot see the video, please view HERE.)

Update: Gus has been adopted! For more info on other dogs who are still waiting, visit SacCountyDogs.com.

Happy Monday, everyone.

xx

Chandra

Photos by Chloe | Chandra

Today, a little something different. Instead of taking a dog to the river, PBSOC asked us to help out with updating some of the dogs' photos for the website. There have been a ton of dogs coming in and it's awfully difficult for Shannon to keep up with them all. When they don't have one of her beautiful shots, the dogs just have their intake shot from when they first were dropped off at the shelter. You can imagine that the situation doesn't make for the most comfortable or flattering photos.

While Ron walked dogs, Chloe and I set up right outside the barn and play yards, in the drizzle. Neither of us were bright enough to bring rain jackets, so things got a little damp. She took photos and I did my best to lure the dogs' attention to her camera with chicken, a tennis ball and squeaky noises.

Despite the inclement weather, and my mediocre dog luring abilities, Chloe's shots came out beautifully. (And I did get to use my model agent editing skills to PBSOC's advantage!)

So proud of our girl today.

Most of the dogs below are available for adoption...click on their names to go to their PBSOC bios.

Mitzi

Hank

Holstein (Adopted)

Otto (Adopted)

Penelope (Adopted)

Priscilla

Sannie

Saturn

Bolt (Adopted

Eva (Not yet available)

Morgan (In need of a long term foster; click HERE for info)

Please share!

xx

Chandra

Holstein & Playgroups | Chandra (Update: Adopted!)

This boy. Oh my goodness, that muzzle, I just want to kiss it.

♥ Holstein ♥

I'm pretty sure you will too...



When we took Holstein out of his kennel, he was pretty shy and skittish...his ears back, his tail between his legs. He took a piece of chicken from me and let me put his harness on just fine, but he was clearly scared. Even when we got out in front of the shelter, he still was pretty worried.

The car seemed like a safe place to him; he settled right in, sitting against me in the backseat, my arm around him. At River Bend park, he was willing to walk with us and to explore and to take treats, but still wasn't the happy dog I was hoping to see. But sweet, oh yes, a complete love. And his shyness only made me love him more. Did I mention that velvety muzzle of his, with the adorable spots?

Back at the shelter, Delyse had us hang out for a bit in an outdoor play area and we quickly saw a different dog emerge. This Holstein was prancing. His tail was up high, his ears perky, his mouth open and smiling, He ran along the fence when people walked by and greeted other dogs with his friendly nose.

And then, best of all, Holstein got to join in playgroups. There, running, frolicking, climbing into the wading pool, greeting Delyse and wanting attention, he shone.

Playgroups are magic. They are a place where the shelter dogs can just be dogs, can play with their friends and learn confidence. A place where they can have fun. Holstein is a perfect example. He's able to feel comfortable and learn that people are safe, that it's totally okay to be happy and have a good time. It gives him a chance to open up, and best of all, a chance for people to see him for the dog he really is.

Tomorrow, I am so excited to be starting a three day training on playgroups with Aimee Sadler, of Dogs Playing for Life. She's coming to the Bradshaw shelter to share her knowledge with the staff and volunteers. Delyse already has implemented playgroups for the dogs, and it's made a world of difference. Instead of volunteers having to walk one dog a time, now multiple dogs can play together, develop social skills and get their energy out. They learn to behave in ways that make them appealing to potential adopters, and they have such a great time. There is nothing like a group of dogs running and wrestling, tongues out, with big happy grins on their faces.

That's what Holstein got to do today, and that's where I get to be tomorrow. How lucky am I?

This boy really is something special and he's going to make someone a wonderful best friend.

(Updated: Holstein has been adopted!)

xx

Chandra

The Epitome of Forgiveness: Popeye | Chandra (Update: Adopted)

I know that every week I say we hung out with the best dog ever...but today, Popeye really did win that honor.

♥    Popeye   ♥

Popeye is a little funny looking at first glance...he's very short, with a great big head, a very muscular front end and a skinny little backside. At some point in his life Popeye had broken bones in his hind legs that were never treated and had to heal the best he could, on his own. Whatever his past was, he doesn't hold it against people. I've never met a more friendly, loving, sweet and happy dog. He's all about tail wags and big face splitting grins.

Popeye gets along great with everyone, likes to play with girl dogs and is waiting very patiently for a very special family to scoop him up and make him their own.

Please share Popeye far and wide and let's get this boy the wonderful home he so deserves!

(If you cannot see the video below, please view it HERE.)

Update: Popeye has been adopted! There are always lots of fabulous dogs who are available, please visit SacCountyDogs.com to see them and fall in love.

In Honor of Aussie's Home-aversary... | Chandra

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Mellow Girl Winnie | Chandra (Update: Adopted)

Today we took out our mellowest dog ever...Winnie.

Winnie

This girl is chill. She walks calmly, she investigated the river calmly, she rode in the car calmly. She did get a little excited to catch a tennis ball and definitely pricked up her ears when she saw a squirrel, but overall, calm.

If you are looking for a friend who is just happy to be by your side, to take a mellow stroll around the neighborhood and then curl up with you for a nap, Winnie is your girl. She'll be happy to just slide right into your life, no major exertion on your part needed.

Some kisses, some pets, a tennis ball, some treats and she's good.

Please share Winnie and let's find this girl a family of her own to relax with!

(If you cannot see the video below, please watch it HERE.)

Update 9.27.15: Winnie has been adopted! Lots of other dogs are still waiting though, so please visit SacCountyDogs.com.

xx

Chandra

Chunk a Luv Honey | Chandra (Update: Adopted)

When I first saw Honey I wasn't so sure she was the best choice for a trip to the river.

Chunk a Luv Honey

She's, well, stout. Stout in the best possible way, because she's definitely adorable. It's just that in her stoutness she looks a bit like she might...sink. Like a rock. A big rock.

But her PBSOC bio says that she loves the water and it has a pretty cute video of her in a kiddie pool, so I thought, Okay, Honey, harness up.

First off, this girl loves to ride in the car. Especially in the front seat. And preferably on the driver's lap in the front seat. Or maybe she just loves Ron. Dogs definitely love Ron. All of them. (And what's not to love?)

Secondly, she definitely does NOT sink. As soon as Honey saw the water, she ran right in. At full speed. There was a second or two of panic on her face when the ground dropped away and then she did it. She swam. And swam and swam and swam. Her bio was right, Honey absolutely LOVES the water.

She also likes taking walks, chicken treats, kisses and hanging out with you. She's a little timid of loud noises or sudden movements, and it takes her a little bit of time to get comfortable in a situation. But once she does, she's a gem.

Please share this sweet girl and let's get her in a loving home where she'll have all the treats, pets, kisses and trips to the river that she deserves.

(If you cannot see the video below, please view it HERE.)

Update 9.27.15: Honey has been adopted! Lots of other dogs are still waiting though, so please visit SacCountyDogs.com.

xx

Chandra

Aussie's Adventure | Chandra

Aussie has settled in nicely. She has her favorite places to curl up for a nap, she's made it clear to Teddy when she wants to wrestle and when to leave her be, she's claimed Ron as her own by following him everywhere he goes. She jumps with excitement when we pick up the leashes and wants to play with every dog she meets on walks. She gives us sweet little soft kisses.

Today, she got a treat. A trip back to the river. This time with Teddy. Lots of tennis ball chasing, swimming, tail wagging and zoomies. Especially zoomies.

Chloe came along with her camera and I'll just let her pics do the talking for me...

Aussie gearing up to zoom...

Full speed.

Our handsome Ted.

He always finds the big sticks.

Yum.

Treasure.

Pretty girl.

She's not very good at catching tennis balls...this pic is after she missed it.

You can do it girl!

Score!

Biggest dorks ever.

Photos by this lovely girl.

Update: We were the fastest foster fail ever...Aussie has found her forever home...with us! When it's right, it's right.

 xx

 Chandra