“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

An “Angel” Is Forever Home!

~ Adoption Success Stories of Angels’ Rescues ~

“Dancer” was one of 3 puppies pulled by Angels Rescue. These German Shepherd mix puppies were so precious, but 2 of the 3 immediately broke with the dreaded and very deadly Parvo virus. Most pups who contract this in a shelter environment die quickly. These babies were fortunate Angels volunteers recognized they were sick and got them to the vet hospital immediately so they could be saved.

They were given medical help and a loving foster experienced with Parvo pups administered excellent care. All were adopted before Christmas 2012, and this is one is known as “Claire Dancer”. Her adoptive family wanted us to see how much she’s grown, and to let Angels know how very much she is loved and cared for! FOSTERING SAVES LIVES!

Her forever mommy Jan Crandall says of Claire Dancer:

“One year ago, we adopted our baby girl! Many thanks and blessing to you for the wonderful gift of Claire Dancer. She enriches our lives and we love her so much. I hope you don't get tired of hearing our thanks, because I will never tire of thanking you and asking God's favor and blessings to be upon you.”

RIGHT: (Claire) Dancer with her siblings, saved by Angels Rescue!

This was their home while getting over Parvo! “The Watermain Gang”

LEFT: Dancer’s Christmas photo at foster Jan Rhodes’ home – can you find her among all the toys under the tree?

RIGHT: Claire Dancer cuddled up for an afternoon snooze with granddaughter, Lilah. A match made in Heaven!

LEFT: Claire Dancer and dad, James Mathews, won 1st place in the Lockheed Fighter 5K Race! Go, Jim and Claire!

Thank you for Adopting, and Saving a Life! “ Rescue ONE Until There Are None”

1-year old Claire Dancer!

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

Reprinted Courtesy of 1800PetMeds.com

When the temperature drops and the weather becomes unbearable, remember that pets, just

like humans, want to feel warm at all times. It's our job as responsible pet parents to make sure

that our pets do not suffer the effects of the cold weather.

Ensuring the health and well-being of your pet should be a pet parent’s top priority, especially

during winter. Here are 5 tips on pet safety during the cold winter months.

How to tell if your pet is too cold

Dogs need to go outside to get exercise and take care of business regardless of the weather. However going outside in inclement weather can be dangerous.

Some things that may affect your dog's ability to tolerate the cold include coat density, and your dog's age, size, and health status. When you take your dog out

during frigid winter weather, how do you know when your dog is getting too cold?

Here are 4 signs that your pet is too cold:

1. The most obvious sign is shivering or shaking, which is the body's way of

generating heat.

2. Look for behavioral changes — your dog may look uncomfortable or seem

anxious. Instead of running around outside joyfully, your dog may stand around, try to turn back for home, or seek a spot that provides shelter such

as under a car.

3. Your dog may display a hunched posture with tail tucked, or lift his or her

paws uncomfortably off the ground.

4. Listen for verbal clues such as whining or barking.

What are the signs of hypothermia in pets?

Hypothermia is a result of low body temperature in pets. When your pet is exposed to cold weather for long periods of time, your pet may suffer from

hypothermia, and wet skin and fur can exacerbate the condition. That's why

it's important to notice the first signs of hypothermia.

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

Hypothermia signs include:

Excessive shivering

Paleness

Listlessness

Collapsing

Symptoms of life-threatening hypothermia include weakness, lethargy,

muscle stiffness and slowed breathing.

If hypothermia is left untreated, coma or death can occur. To treat hypothermia, wrap your pet up in a warm blanket, and consider using a heated pet pad

underneath him or her. Take your pet to the vet as soon as possible to prevent complications.

What are the signs of frostbite in pets?

Some signs of frostbite are skin that appears pale or grey, and skin that is cool

and sometimes hard to the touch. The commonly affected areas are parts on your pet's body least protected by fur including toes, ears, the tip of the tail, and the

scrotum. The affected frostbitten area may become red and swollen, and may even begin to peel. As your pet's circulation returns it may be very painful for

your pet. Dead skin and tissue separates from the body in one to three weeks.

Treat frostbite by slowly wrapping your pet's body in warm dry towels or blankets and placing hot water bottles wrapped in towels nearby, which act like a heater.

It's important not to rub or massage your pet’s affected area. If you sus- pect frostbite in your pet, take him/her to your veterinarian as soon as possible.

How do I prevent winter health problems?

A good rule of thumb: if it's too cold for you, it's too cold for your pet. So if you have an outdoor pet, keep him or her indoors during extreme temperatures.

Prevent future winter health problems with these tips below:

Limit your pet's exposure to the outdoors

Take shorter walks

Dry off fur and paws after coming indoors

Consider using pet sweaters or jackets

Extra calories may help reduce heat loss

(consult your veterinarian before adding extra calories to your pet's diet)

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

Other winter health concerns

Other concerns during the winter include sore, cracked paws from ice and salt

exposure, the risk of antifreeze ingestion, and painful joints.

Sore cracked paws: occur when your pet is walking outside on ice and salted

walkways. This can cause a lot of pain to your pet's paws if not taken care of properly. Every time you come back from a walk, make sure that you wipe off

your pet’s foot pads with a damp towel or grooming wipes.

Antifreeze ingestion: the first signs of antifreeze ingestion include lethargy, lack of coordination, weakness, or depression. In later stages, your pet may

experience vomiting, diarrhea, inability to urinate and gastric ulcers. Pets that have ingested antifreeze must be treated quickly. So seek care immediately.

To prevent antifreeze ingestion, make sure to check the ground for spillage frequently. Also, keep your pet's water bowl filled with fresh water; since a

thirsty pet is more inclined to drink antifreeze.

Tip: Keep water from freezing in the bowl by placing a heated pad under it.

Painful joints: occur in the wintertime frequently due to cold weather. This is

the time of year when old, creaky painful joints may flare up. Giving your pet a joint supplement with omega fatty acids and providing a plush, orthopedic bed,

can help reduce joint-related issues.

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“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

Angels’ Featured Cat for December: JACOB!

Jacob is a male, Domestic Short Hair, white tabby boy who is approximately 1 year old, weighs around 11 pounds and isn't nearly full-grown, so he, too, will be a larger kitty as an adult. He is neutered, up-to-date on all his shots and vetting, and is completely litter-trained, as well.

Jacob is great with all cats - he is a very curious kitty and loves, loves, loves to play! He loves nothing better than wrestling with his fosters young cat and they adore chasing each other, stopping to play wrestle and then taking off,

again, in a merry chase! Jacob loves people - kids and adults - as well as his traditional cat toys. He's a big "talker", his foster mom says, but equally adores attention from his person or just taking a nap in your lap!

Jacob was rescued by Angels Among Us Pet Rescue volunteers through AAU's Cats program. Jacob came from a high-kill shelter with another of our rescues, Danika, who was previously featured.

Jacob loves "fresh" water - choosing to drink it where ever he can find it in the home - from fountains, sinks, showers, etc. He adores pawing the surface of a bowl of water so it ripples before he drinks it. Clever kitty! His other loves include lying on the back of the couch and just watching the day and the world go by. Laying in the sunshine through the window is his absolute favorite thing to do.

The best home for Jacob would be one with another feline to play with, kids or owners who will adore him and give him lots of attention and affection. Toys and kitty perches near the window would be neat to, Jacob says!

To find out more about Jacob, or one of the other cats up for adoption through Angels Rescue, please contact the Angels Among Us Pet Rescue - Cats team by email at "catsinquiry@angelsrescue.org".

Also, please visit, like, and follow Angels' Facebook Cats page at www.facebook.com/angelsrescue.cats. Don’t forget to check out the other wonderful pets up for adoption by visiting our website: www.angelsrescue.org/adopt/.

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

11 Things You Should Resolve NOT to Do at Work This Year By Megan Malugani, Monster Contributing Writer

Reprinted by Permission

The New Year is a perfect time to say “hello” to workplace happiness and “good-bye” to the bad habits that make you miserable and hinder your professional success. You’ll enjoy your time in the office a little more -- and improve your professional reputation -- if you make it your New Year’s resolution to cut down on these 11 counterproductive behaviors:

1. Excessive Complaining

Enough already. Constant whining about insignificant things (“It’s horribly unfair that Department X got a casual day and we didn’t!”) doesn’t serve a purpose and keeps you in a perpetually bad mood. Plus, happy people will avoid you.

2. Gossiping

Ditto for gossiping. The next time a colleague tries to engage you in the office drama du jour, offer a one-word response, like “interesting” or “wow,” and follow it with, “I’ve got to go. See you later.” Repeat as necessary.

3. Heartlessly Criticizing Others

Sometimes you must criticize a colleague’s or subordinate’s performance. But have a heart when doing so. If possible, mention a few positives for every negative, and try to be constructive rather than cruel.

4. Beating Yourself Up

So you made a mistake, or your brilliant idea actually turned out to be a bad one. No one is perfect. Own up to your mistake, or take responsibility for your failure. Then move on.

5. Taking Yourself Too Seriously

C’mon, lighten up. Admittedly, this may be tough for overworked employees in a difficult labor market. But that is precisely the reason to flash those pearly whites and crack a joke now and then (even of the “gallows humor” variety): Everyone benefits when the tension is brought down a notch, even for just a minute.

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

6. Stagnating

Are you content to be bored at work? Do you want your boss to consider you uninspired? Probably not. So make it a resolution to learn something new or try something different in 2011.

7. Isolating Yourself

In today’s topsy-turvy job market, professional networking is more important than ever. So this year, don’t hole up in your cubicle. Get out there and meet some new folks -- both inside and outside the company -- who share your profession or work in your field.

8. Blending into the Woodwork

Even if you’ve always had a hard time speaking up in meetings or expressing your opinion to your boss, it’s never too late to start putting in your two cents. Pick one work-related issue that is close to your heart and that you’re knowledgeable about. Contribute a few comments on this issue during a meeting -- you may be surprised at how seriously people take the input of someone who speaks sparingly!

9. Blabbing Unnecessarily

Stating your mind is important, but don’t just talk to hear your own voice in meetings, either. Speak up only if you’re adding something of value to the discussion.

10. Burning Bridges

Don’t assume that colleagues, customers and others who cross your professional path will forgive and forget when you do them wrong. So make it one of your resolutions in 2011 to stay on good terms with your professional acquaintances. Yes, it’s sometimes hard, but oh-so-worth-it in the long run.

11. Wasting Time Via Social Media

Wasting time at work is as old as work itself. But a particularly timely pet peeve of many bosses is the overuse and/or misuse of Facebook, Twitter and other forms of social media. Alas, this final resolution -- to curb your social media addiction -- may not make you happier at work in the short term, but it will protect you professionally in the long term.

~ Angels Among Us Pet Rescue Wishes YOU a Happy, Healthy New Year. Make 2014 the Best one Yet! ~

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

A Very Special “Angel”

~ Stories that Touch Your Heart & Soul ~

Today, I want to tell you a sad story....one that had a horrific beginning but with your help, could turn into one of the happiest endings ever written.

I want to introduce you today to a young man named "Wilbur". Wilbur had a horrible, horrific start in life. You see, this young man almost died before he had a chance to live because a human who thought in her mentally disturbed mind she was doing a "good" thing. You see, Wilbur's owner was what we term a "hoarder" - and not just someone who could not bear to let go of items she thought of as "treasures" but most of us would consider trash - she also "collected" animals.

We're feel sure she "believed" she loved them and couldn't bear to let them go, but she also was very sick, physically, with cancer. Fighting physical and mental diseases is a very tough road and life, indeed. Wilbur's owner was in dire straits and before anyone really knew how bad her life was, or that she had animals in those horrible conditions, she suddenly passed away from cancer.

During her time fighting this awful disease, a very kind woman known to many as "Nurse Betty", was helping her along her journey. You see, Nurse Betty is a hospice nurse with a heart as huge for animals as it is for her human patients. However, even Nurse Betty didn't realize poor Wilbur's plight until the owner passed away and they began to go through the horrid conditions at the home and on the property.

Inside the home, lost in all the horrible trash and mess, was a tiny little Chihuahua who was able to survive under mounds of trash and horrid conditions. But what they did NOT know until they opened the garage was another dog, "Wilbur". Wilbur had literally been locked away in that awful garage for who knows how long! What she considered "safety" for her dog was quickly turning into a death trap for Wilbur!

The pictures in this article of the garage and of Wilbur tell you what he looked like when they found him - emaciated beyond belief, literally SKIN and BONES, with days and perhaps hours until his time on earth would have come to a horrible, lonely, painful end.

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

When they opened the door and found him, he immediately struggled to run to the closest muddy hole of water he could find, and almost drank it dry!! (see pic of him wanting to continually drink - you can see his ribs and bones protruding). That picture was taken in October, 2013.

But that's not how Wilbur lives today.

Wilbur, through the efforts of Nurse Betty, became an Angels Among Us rescued boy that day! He was vetted, given medication, lots of food and water, was later neutered and given all his shots, and was placed into the loving care of a foster home with his new "Mom", Taylor. Life drastically changed for Wilbur that day, and he continues to improve by leaps and bounds!

When you see him in his "AFTER" shots of how he looks today, you'd never know the horror this dog lived and survived through on that property. He is now lovingly called a "chunky-monkey" by his foster mom who loves him dearly. He's turned into the most wonderful little "goofball" of a companion, and one who deserves only the very BEST life can offer him!

Let me tell you a bit about Wilbur today: he's approximately 5 years old, now weighs in at around 45+ pounds, is healthy, crate and house-trained, micro-chipped and ready to be adopted.

Some of Wilbur's favorite things in the world are: Playing fetch, playing tag with the laser pointer, His favorite trick is to roll on his back and hold his toys above his head so he can show them off! We think Wilbur is a Bassett hound mix breed and he's affectionately known as a "low-rider" which means he's built close to the ground. He loves going on walks and playing outside in the backyard.

The ideal home for little Wilbur would be a family environment with young boys to play with but just so you know, Wilbur isn't picky - he loves and enjoys PEOPLE...all sizes and ages. A family is what Wilbur really craves...one who will love him, want him, play with him, and allow him to be a true member of the family in every way.

He's a good boy in his crate during the day, and thoroughly enjoys going to doggie day care, playing with the other dogs, if his family works during the day. The adoptive family would need a fenced-in back yard with a secure gate so Wilbur could play outside as often as possible. He also is great with other smaller dogs his size, and is totally okay with cats (his foster mom's kitty even sleeps in the crate with Wilbur sometimes).

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

One last image of this incredible dog: His foster mom, Taylor, says he's so smart, and knows when it's "Adoption Day"! He helps her put his harness and leash on, and gets very excited when they pull up to the adoption site! Wilbur will run to his "spot", immediately sits nicely and quietly, watching everyone and looking for "his family" to come along.

Each time someone comes by to see him, he "leans" into them, looking at them with loving eyes, begging to go home with them to be their "boy"! He also entertains them by throwing his toys around in an adorable way, then lying down close to his visitors, just to give and receive love. WHY IN THE WORLD would you "pass by" a dog who's so smart and

loving, and just begging to receive the same thing? Don't walk by him....consider adopting this baby and giving him what he's waited and prayed for so long! Be Wilbur's "happy ending".

If you'd like to know more about Wilbur, meet him and consider adopting him, you may contact Angels Among Us by email at "Adopt@angelsrescue.org", or by visiting their website at www.angelsrescue.org. Thank you for considering opening your home to Wilbur or any other pet through Angels Among Us Pet Rescue.

UPPER: This is the garage where poor

Wilbur was locked in – no food, no

water, nothing.

LEFT: Wilbur at time of intake to Angels

Among Us. Total skin and bones.

RIGHT: Wilbur drinking muddy rain

water out of a hole immediately upon

his release from the garage.

www.angelsrescue.org/adopt

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

Special Thanks To Our Angels Supporters! LuAnn Farrell, Founder of AAUPR

Pegasus Residential Focuses on Pets as Part of their Philanthropy Program Pegasus Residential, an Atlanta based property management company, has provided exceptional apartment living for residents for over 5 years. During this time Pegasus has been involved in many various philanthropy programs through their Pegasus Gives program. The program allows every employee one day every quarter throughout the year to volunteer at a charity or program of their choice with their full daily pay. Employees have chosen to spend their days individually or as groups at several different fundraising events and charities such as Toys for Tots, local food banks, and the Special Olympics.

In 2013 Pegasus Residential expanded their focus to their four legged friends that haven’t yet found a place to call home. “Pegasus for Paws” was created to benefit the Angels Among Us organization in Alpharetta, GA. (www.angeslrescue.org) Angels Among Us is a non-profit organization that rescues animals that are in danger of being euthanized by traditional pet shelters in Georgia.

Pictured L to R: Bonny Spinks, Lindy Ware, Kay Hall of Pegasus Residential and Luann Farrell, Lisa Zambacca, Jan and Jessica Rhodes of Angels Among Us Pet Rescue

receiving the Pegasus For Paws donation check from Pegasus to Angels!

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

This organization was discovered by Kay Hall, one of the Pegasus accountants who adopted Camby from Angels Among Us, a mixed breed new family member. “It only costs $150 to save an animal”, said Hall. “I know we can save at least 50!” With that, Pegasus was on a mission.

Through Bonnie Spinks and Jackie Ware’s social media efforts and Pegasus employees across the country, Pegasus Residential was able to raise over $16,000 to present to Angels Among Us. A check was presented to the director of Angels Among Us on December 20, 2013 for $16,896.28, the largest donation ever received by the organization! (see photo on Left of check presentation)

“We are thrilled to have extended our efforts to the neglected pets this organization helps.” said Lindy Ware – President, Pegasus Residential. “With our pets in the office every day, including Mia, a shelter rescue herself, we obviously have a special place in our hearts for our furry family members. We hope to extend our efforts throughout 2014 and beyond”, Ware added.

Speaking of little Mia, here’s a close-up of this darling girl who was saved from Paulding County Animal Shelter by Jackie Ware who helped run an adoption event in Paulding at one of the Pegasus properties. Little Mia was the last one not to be adopted. Rather than take her back to the shelter to be euthanized the next day, Jackie brought her to Lindy Ware’s attention and the rest, as they say, is history! Mia became a permanent member of the Ware home and the Pegasus Residential family, as well!

As another wonderful result of this effort, another Angel’s dog was adopted by Landon Bridgers, the CFO of Pegasus Residential. Precious “Aubie” became a member of the Bridgers family and is already comfortable and “forever home” with them. Thank you for adopting from Angels! Pictured: Aubie (L) and his new furbrother, Dolce’

If you know someone who is looking to join our Angels team as a volunteer, a foster, a fundraiser, or to help one of the many areas within Angels Among Us, please contact us at volunteer@angelsrescue.org and we’ll be happy to help you join our team, just as the wonderful folks at Pegasus Residential did!

~ Rescue ONE Until There Are NONE ~

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

December 2013 Traffic Report

Traffic on our Facebook page, our website as well as the Petfinder site helps to provide visibility and funding, enabling Angels Among Us Pet Rescue to rescue and find loving foster and adoptive homes for these rescues.

December, 2013 Rescue Stats: 330 - active foster homes 498 - adoptable pets 111 - pets adopted 196 - pets rescued 4,610 - total adopted* 5,319 - total rescued*

December, 2013 Website Stats: 137,550 -- page views 57,123 -- website visits 39,941 -- unique visitors

December, 2013 Facebook Stats: 72,650 -- Facebook fans

How YOU Can Help!

Sign up for our monthly

donation subscription:

Furry Friends - $10

Silver Whiskers - $25

Gold Collars - $50

Platinum Paws - $100

Angels Among Us - $250

Visit our website for details!

www.angelsrescue.org/donate

Thank You Very Much!

In this issue of the Angels Herald, we would like to thank the following individuals and companies for their generous donations and support:

PEGASUS RESIDENTIAL – Angels of the Month!

Donna Agolli Bruce Smith Jane Jenab Linda Williams Hollie Ross Leslie Popp Brian Melvin Carole Trulio Rob Willis Catherine Wells Bryant Isaacs Dean Howard Geraldine Caldwell Lauren K. Orr Karen Gray Kenneth Duclos Mary Holbrook Susan Coy Shelly Janashek Shannon Pable Lisa Kozicki Nancy Taliaferro Myra Hewlett Lisa Harper Stockton Garver Tracey Hazlett Marc Lewis Laura Hancock Amelia Tomei Laurel Dent Rebecca Segrest Sherri England Mary Thomas Jeanne M. Martell Jeff Burdette Michael Slavin Courtney Harrison Jill Passafiume Kaya Brautgam Sally Brown Angevine Kamala Weaver Michael Walsh Cynthia Setterlund Margaret Bravick Alan Coleman Amanda Conley Denise Wilhelm Susan Rodgers Kimberly & Neil Dickson Mr. & Mrs. Pierre Kimball Joe Hernandez-Pol Sharon Vanhouten-Shew Krysta McNaughton Victoria Henry

McKesson Foundation Jones Bridge Animal Hosp. Brewhouse Café, Inc. Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint

Henry & Anne Reich Family Foundation, Inc.

About Our Organization

Angels Among Us Pet Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing dogs and cats from high-kill shelters in north Georgia. We operate through a network of foster homes in the metro Atlanta area. Our efforts are funded by tax-deductible contributions from compassionate people and organizations that care and want to help make a difference.

ANGELS AMONG US PET RESCUE PO BOX 821

ALPHARETTA, GA 30009 Fax: (877) 969-8669

Email: info@angelsrescue.org Website: www.angelsrescue.org

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

Upoming Events

For the month of December, please make your plans to join us at the many Adoptions, Special Promotions, and Fundraising Events scheduled this month. Fundraisers and Adoption Opportunities are all supported and staffed by Angels Among Us Pet Rescue volunteers! You can go to this link to see all Events and Adoptions listed on Angel’s Facebook Events page: www.facebook.com/angelsrescue/events

Make sure you check the Events Calendar listings on Facebook often, as Events and Special Promotions are being added or changed during the month! SEE YOU THERE!!

Some Seriously HOT Cats laying down some tunes for Angels Among Us Pet Rescue! These “cats” are good! Wonder if they’ll come play for a “Special Angels Event”?

SEE YOU NEXT MONTH! DON’T MISS AN ISSUE! SIGN UP TODAY to receive your issue each month!

www.angelsrescue.org

“Angels Herald” Newsletter January, 2014 Issue

Telling the Angels Rescue Good News

Through Social Media

Look for Angels Rescue on all the following social media platforms, and choose to follow, like, share and help us use social media to save lives!

www.facebook.com/angelsrescue