Urgent adorable seniors at SLA need a friend today!

Sweet seniors in danger at SLA

Meet Jake (14 yrs Lab), Ginger (16 yrs GSD), and Tito (10 yrs Chi). You might not have heard of them before, they may not be famous, but they're a package of three very much worth saving. These unlucky dogs had a mother once. She was a vet tech who saved every animal dumped at the vet. Her family had 16 pets because of her. This kind woman died - leaving a grieving husband and son behind. Their home was foreclosed. And these two men worked hard to find homes for 16 pets. They found homes for 13 of them. But yesterday, hours before they took the rest of their things from the house they once loved, they dropped Tito, Ginger, and Jake off at SLA Shelter. And they wept.

I know it's a lot to ask for three dogs. I know it's a lot to ask for three seniors. I know it's a lot to hope that three black seniors will come out alive. But faith is all we have. If ANYONE can give these three best friends who cried and barked as they were separated into different kennels (SLA is trying to put them together if possible) a chance at a noble ending, an opportunity to live out their golden time as they should - warm, safe, loved - PLEASE RUN TO SLA TO SAVE THEM. They do not have much time left: owner surrendered, black, and old.

They are all neutered and spayed, up to date on shots, healthy, and get along with cats and dogs very well (they lived with 13 others!) In the interest of full disclosure, please note Tito, the Chi is a fear snapper does need someone to go slow with him. Thank you for caring, thank you for networking, thank you for trying to help these three worthy lives. They're good dogs - nothing is wrong with them. Just their luck.

PLEASE HELP:

SLA SHELTER: (213)-485-0117
3612 11th Avenue, 90018

URGENT! APPLE'S DELICIOUS, ROUND & RIPE @ SLA A1168206

Apple is in danger and needs help today!

Apple (A1168206, 4 years old, long-fuzzy hair on a short staffie body) is delectable and utterly wonderful. I've been watching her for two months now -- a momma who came into the shelter with 7 puppies. Initially protective, she was never aggressive but nursed her brood (that looked nothing like her at all) for a month without incident. There was one black pipsqueak, a 1/4 size runt, that caused concern and was sent to foster -- but died unexpectedly 2 days later, bringing tears to the eyes of the Animal Control Officer who had loved her for such a short time, who allowed her to sleep in the pocket of his shirt in order to keep her close -- this little thing having won his heart.

Apple is alone now -- facing the fate of too many momma dogs once their puppies are adopted. This girl and I have been for many walks together; met total strangers at the main shelter to whom she offered her soft and luscious kisses; passed far too many new dogs coming in and far too few going out.

We took Apple to our mobile last weekend. She was loving and sweet with everyone she met -- except one bigger alpha female. Today I got word that, upon meeting little dogs, she wanted to NUZZLE THEM -- like the puppies that she nursed for weeks. Apple is learning to accept larger dogs and has now been kenneled with one. It took her a few moments to get used to being sniffed -- but she has been fine since then. Those of you who know me understand that I am beyond cautious in my recommendations. I believe in Apple -- I want to see this dog bring happiness to whoever saves her life. SHe is mellow and sweet. Someone suggested that she be a therapy dog -- could absolutely see that.

When I received word today that her time was critical, I panicked. I can't look at this face without smiling; without remembering her jumping up to greet me in complete abandon and delight; without remembering how it feels to put my arms around her thick neck and very wide middle (she must have gained 10 pounds while at the shelter!!!). Apple's portrait brightens up this page as I type. She brought life into this world. Apple needs someone to give her the gift of life now. If you can help, please contact South L.A. immediately at (213) 485-0117 or -0119. And I beg you to let me know that you have succumbed to her charms.

With sincerest thanks, Andrea (& Mindy) ivegonetothedogs@gmail.com (323) 363-4909

Please contact me asap if you can help this lovely girl. Andrea (323) 363-4909
She is at the South L.A. shelter and would love to meet you -- 3612 11th Ave. L.A. 90018 (213) 485-0117 or -0119.

see Apple in action! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbpPSNcZmyk

SAVE A LIFE, ADOPT!!!

Bertam A1167529 at South LA Shelter is a one-of-a-kind guy

Bertam (A1167529, 6 years old, already neutered) is a one-of-a-kind guy. Everyone who seems him just has to grin. At 70 pounds, feet a bit deformed so that he appears to be standing in an exaggerated ballet position, Bertram is most unusual. This goofy guy has been in ISO as he has some entropion of the eyes and initial concern about his feet. But, he gets around very well -- and will pull you around the block several times if you let him.

It seems that Bertram is quite probably house-trained as he whines to get outside and do his business. We've had him around a couple of other dogs and seems to be OK. Bertram's space at the shelter is valuable and he needs out quickly!!! If you are ready for unparalleled feet and unparalleled fun, call the South L.A. shelter at (213) 485-0117 or -0119 to save him. And kindly let us know that he is blending into your life.

Many thanks, Andrea & Mindy ivegonetothedogs@gmail.com (323) 363-4909

SUPERLATIVES ARE NOT ENOUGH!!!!!!! Luna A1159270 @ SLA shelter today

Luna (A1159270, 2 years, a sizable 60 pounds) is a miracle dog. This canine is categorically one of the best ever. Gentle, attentive, a great leash walker, an absolute people charmer who loves even the littlest baby, Luna was not ashamed in the least to be kissing another girl in the hallway. When her tongue came out and dusted Bessy's nose and mouth, then washed off every bit of dirt that might have been on or around her snout, everyone around had to giggle. Luna's so big and she's so gentle. Her fawn brindle coat is like velvet to the touch. A perfect therapy dog perhaps -- but definitely a fine example of how the most wonderful dogs wind up at the shelter. She needs to delight many more people -- as soon as possible. Best way is to adopt her today. Call the South L.A. shelter at (213) 485-0117 or -0119. And kindly let us know that her moonglow is lighting up your home.

With thanks, Andrea & Mindy ivegonetotheodogs@gmail.com (323) 363-4909

MIRACLE SURVIVED ONCE -- CAN SHE DO IT AGAIN? SLA URGENT!

Miracle (A1127808, 1 1/2 years old, on alert -- needs out by end of day, Tuesday, July 13th !!! ) arrived at the shelter weighing only 31 pounds with a nasty case of demodex to boot. So fearful, half-dead -- it was a miracle that she survived. Longing to trust people again it took only a few minutes to see this smile brighten her face. And it hasn't left since that time. Miracle is energetic and happy. She has been kenneled alone in ISO, getting extra food and treatment for her skin. She seems fine around other dogs and is super friendly with people. Please look at this face, open you heart, and call the South L.A. shelter at (213) 485-0117 or -0119 to save her.

Kindly let us know as we are very concerned. Many thanks, Andrea & MIndy ivegonetothedogs@gmail.com (323) 363-4909

Save a Life, Adopt!

Unhappy Tales of Wilmington Los Angeles

Dog in Wilmington

This is not my usual type of post, but every now and then I think it's imperative to see the TRUTH. This is one of those times when I have to bite the bullet and show you the ugly reality of LAAS not having enough money to do their job. The truth is that they are unable to enforce the laws that protect animals. Apparently the citizens of Los Angeles either think that it isn't important for LAAS to have adequate support or maybe they just don't realize this situation even exists... Well, here it is, at least a very small part of it.

Thanks to Claudia Hoffman who agreed to having her letter & photos shared on this blog. These are all shots of dogs in Wilmington, Los Angeles.

Injured animals from Wilmington

The letter:

Last Friday I got an anonymous call. A puppy in Wilmington being kicked so hard, the kick actually broke it’s jaw. The puppy could hardly walk, was limping and drooling when I arrived. Shop owners said a truck hit the dog. We won’t know what really happened but nobody called animal control for 2 days! Business continued as usual and the dog lied there with it’s broken jaw. Isn’t that animal abuse? The puppy had to be euthanized at the shelter due to it’s severe injuries.

This same junk yard had 4 more pit-bulls running lose. When animal control officers explained the dogs needed to be licensed, they willingly surrendered 2 more unfixed pit-bulls. While loading these dogs, 2 more dogs came out of another yard. Needless to say: unlicensed, unfixed and injured. The female seemed pregnant. I almost got physically attacked by a woman because I called animal control. This area (like many others in LA) is and has been a dumping and breeding ground for unwanted pets for a long time. I reported a similar situation about 2 years ago.

Within 10 minutes the 2 officers loaded up 5 unwanted dogs! These 5 dogs came from only 2 businesses. This small area has at least 30 junk yards. Almost every single yard has between 1-5 animals. Does anyone have any idea what that means? How many animals will reproduce in just that small part of Wilmington? And shouldn't guard dogs finally be replaced by alarm systems!!!

A friend took photos the same day in another part of Wilmington where a guy was selling pit-bull puppies out of his truck! See photos.

This is only one area of Los Angeles where this madness is going on. What gets me most is that nobody seems to care. City officials seem to be fully aware of this situation, yet they don’t do anything about it. Money is the excuse now! Money has been the excuse 5 years ago!

1-2 animal control officers are responsible for the areas of Wilmington, South LA, Watts, San Pedro, Harbor City, Lomita, parts of Torrance and parts of Compton! Please correct me if I’m wrong! Wilmington alone would need more than 2 officers to get back yard breeding, neglect, abuse and dog fighting under control. Not to mention South LA or Watts…

Doesn’t anybody see the irony in this? Or shall I say the insanity! The shelters pay to euthanize animals on a daily basis only to make room for the new stray, abused, abandoned and unwanted animals. Craigslist and the Penny Saver are full of “puppies for sale” or “free to good home” or “stud” ads. It’s a vicious circle and we keep cleaning up the surface. We euthanize these animals and let back yard breeders and puppy mills continue their business. It doesn’t make sense! You don’t even have to be an animal lover to see that this is wrong.

We do have a spay/neuter ordinance BUT it is not being enforced. We do have a anti-tethering law BUT it is not being enforced. Animals are supposed to be licensed BUT nobody checks on it. So much money to be made right there! Additional officers could be paid to clean up this mess and finally enforce the law. Animal Control is doing as much as they can with the little they are given.

Why is this not being taken serious? Should every rescue, individual rescuer or animal lover just forward you the horror messages we receive every day? Would that make a difference? I’m desperate, upset, disappointed, disgusted, confused and sad. This is inhumane and I feel like I’m in a third world country. Will you ever make an effort to change this horror?

Regards,

Claudia Hoffmann

PS. I also filmed most of what was going on down there if anyone is interested.

This letter was sent to LA city council members, LAAS & the mayor, please feel free to write to them to get support to help our cities animals. Here are email addresses you can use! Thank YOU for caring.

janice.hahn@lacity.org;
councilmember.huizar@lacity.org;
councilmember.garcetti@lacity.org;
greig.smith@lacity.org;
councilman.rosendahl@lacity.org;
councilman.wesson@lacity.org;
jan.perry@lacity.org;
councilmember.parks@lacity.org;

councilmember.alarcon@lacity.org;
councilmember.cardenas@lacity.org;
paul.koretz@lacity.org;
councilmember.labonge@lacity.org;
councilmember.zine@lacity.org;
councilmember.krekorian@lacity.org;
councilmember.reyes@lacity.org;
jim.bickhart@lacity.org;
kathy.davis@lacity.org;
jimmy.blackman@lacity.org;
mayor@lacity.org

South LA Shelter: Taffeta (A1111364, only a year old)

She's beautiful and she's friendly,
but she's out of time

Taffeta (A1111364, only a year old) is absolutely out of time now (been on alert since May 17th!!!!!). This is her last week (needs out by Friday, the 11th) in our over-crowded shelter. Don't let this social butterfly die. She showers affection on those lucky enough to meet her. Taffeta is certainly very enthusiastic and she can get slightly mouthy -- like the big puppy that she is -- but never aggressive -- and she does calm down quickly. She's been fine with other dogs. Graduation is coming up -- and those of us who have met her are waiting to see her walk on the stage and out the shelter door. Please call the South L.A. shelter at (213) 485-0117 or -0119 today to save this gem. And kindly let us know that she is safe. There are currently donations for a qualified rescue -- if you wish to add anything, please e-mail / call me. Many thanks, Andrea & Mindy ivegonetothedogs@gmail.com (323) 363-4909

Hope for Hope? Please circulate! Urgent!!

Hope A1092173

Hope is a 9 year old shepherd mix. She's a wonderful dog who loves people and other dogs. Hope has been described as "easy" and "loving." What would it take to get this dog into your life? She's as nice as they come, she's not too big and very quiet. She's happy to hang out and isn't super picky about much of anything... She just needs your commitment to making a home for her.

This dog deserves the GREATEST home ever, but she'll take a pretty good one...

http://www.laanimalservice.com

Please contact the South LA Shelter immediately if you are interested as she's running out of time.

Say good-by to Hollywood, unless someone gets him out of SLA NOW!

Look at this amazing dog!


Turned in because of a tragedy in the family. Separated from his life-long companion. Painfully skinny. Hollywood (A1079047, 4 year old, smooth collie / Husky mix, with one stunning blue eye and one ear standing upright, red-listed on 12/23 -- so nearly out of time!!!!) gulped down the big bowl of food we offered. And when we left the room, he cried continually until we returned. This is a dog who quickly develops strong bonds with the people who care for him. Obviously, there have not been many. Hollywood loves to bury his head in your lap, trying so hard to get close. He needs a friend -- and now.

Hollywood has been kenneled alone, probably because of his size (I think it was 72 pounds -- but should be considerably more -- those ribs show distinctly). He passed the test of walking through dozens of barking dogs without reacting -- but does seem interested in the smaller dogs.

Please make Hollywood your landmark. Call the South L.A. Shelter at (213) 485-0117 or -0119.
If possible, please drop me a line and let me know he is safe. Many thanks, Andrea ivegonetothedogs@gmail.com (323) 363-4909

SLA shelter sweeties need YOUR help today!

DUMPED AT SOUTH L.A. WE ONLY HAD EACH OTHER.

A WEEK LATER WE'VE MADE FRIENDS.

ALL WE WANT TO DO IS SMILE -- AND BE A PART OF YOUR LIFE. It's always heart-breaking to see early impound numbers back at the shelter. Blade (A0749462) and Cosita (A0749464) were adopted as puppies. Now 6 years old, brought back. Shy, not used to other dogs (best adopted as the only dogs because of their strong bond) or people (today much more socialized). From a home of happiness to a shelter of uncertainty and fear? And now red-listed, scheduled to die on 11/14!!! Perpetually smiling, these two are absolutely endearing. (here's the video link to paste in your brower :
http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/sredir?uname=ThatOtherMindyFromCamp&target=ALBUM&id=5398278300656792673&authkey=Gv1sRgCOfQlqWZ9Pa4Xw&feat=email)


The deep bond they share, Cosita always kissing Blade's muzzle when he would hide behind the dividing wall of the kennel, afraid to approach; their walks in unison, never more than a step or two apart; Blade allowing Cosita to eat the treats first, content to watch her enjoyment (you can tell she is a little bit on the chunky side!).

That is how they have survived. But, they won't survive past this weekend unless someone saves them. If you can help, call the South L.A. shelter at (213) 485-0117 or -0119. And kindly let me know as well. These two are very, very dear to me.

Thanks for caring about shelter dogs -- They need our help now more than ever.
Andrea franksable@msn.com (323) 363-4909