Drive to Donate on Jan. 2nd — Help us win $10,000!

Ring Dog Rescue and Pence Subaru Partner to "Share the Love" and Find Forever Homes for Richmond's Homeless Pets

An estimated 70 percent of Subaru Owners Have Pets; More than Any Other Auto Manufacturer

Ring Dog will join the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) and Subaru of America for its annual year-end "Share the Love" campaign and celebration. New car buyers/leasers can choose to have $250 donated among five charities – including the ASPCA. Subaru strives to reflect their owners' active lifestyles, love of the outdoors, and community involvement.

As part of this national effort, we teamed up to create off-site adoptions at their dealership, along with offering a micro-chip clinic, games, raffles, fun and more!! Items you can use to "Fill the Forester" are toys, food, treats, beds and blankets.

**** Microchip clinic from 11 to 2 only ****

---

Photos from National Pit Bull Awareness Day!

http://phodographyrva.smugmug.com/Other/Pit-Bull-Awareness-Day/14883417_3E54H#1110822332_mb2rq

---

Federal law leashes pit bull restrictions

Municipal governments from New York City to Miami, and from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Denver, have responded to fear of pit bulls and similar breeds of dogs, by severely restricting their ownership or banning them entirely from their jurisdictions. Now, thanks to a rule issued recently by the U.S. Department of Justice, such actions are subject to being struck down. Jurisdictions now considering such overreactions, such as Douglasville, Georgia, would be well-advised to review the Justice Department’s opinion before proceeding.

Dog owners and humane societies have long-opposed such arbitrary and overly broad laws that penalize thousands of pit bull owners who maintain their canine companions properly and without incident, because of a small number who fail to properly train and control the dogs. Courts generally have permitted such ordinances to stand, based on deference to the so-called "police power" of local governments to protect the public "safety and welfare."

Read more...

---

Puppies aren't presents

More puppies are abandoned after Christmas than at any other time of the year. Why? Puppies make cute, adorable Christmas presents, but in the days and weeks that follow reality usually sets in. Overcome with the responsibility that it takes to own a puppy and have it become a part of the family will force many people to give up their puppies to a shelter, or in some cases just turn it out on the streets.

Puppies chew things. They chew up furniture and children's toys. They eat Mom's good shoes, and shred Dad's newspapers. Many families find that they don't have the patience for this kind of behavior. After the holiday has past, they begin to wonder what they were thinking, when they got a puppy.

Puppies bark a lot. They may get on your nerves, if you're the type who likes peace and quiet. Many puppies will even whine and cry all night long, during the first few weeks after being separated from the mother, and the rest of the litter. Working parents who have to get up early find they are angry, stressed, and frustrated shortly after the puppies arrival. Kids who have to get up early for school suddenly realize the reality of a puppy is not quite like the fantasy they once envisioned.

Puppies have potty training issues. This is one thing many people aren't prepared to deal with. They will ruin carpets, furniture, even bedspreads and mattresses. Anyone who thinks that they will potty train a puppy "in a hurry" would do best to think again. Potty training takes time and effort. It needs to happen when you are stressed out, when you are tired, and when you have other things to do.

Adopting a puppy should be done, not on the spur of the moment, but only after a great deal of thought, and reflection. You have to make sure that it is the right choice for your family because a dog needs love and attention. They deserve a family that has the time and energy to give them that love.

Read more at Suite101: Puppies for Christmas: Is This a Good Choice for Your Family?

---

Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run/Walk

Who: The Arthritis Foundation and DogCaptionCards.com

What: The Jingle Bell Run/Walk, a fun and festive holiday fundraiser for the Arthritis Foundation, is teaming up with DogCaptionCards to promote a loveable pack of available-for-adoption Pit Bulls from Bully Paws Pit Bull Patriots and Ring Dog Rescue.

Why? The most enjoyable and economical way to avoid and reduce arthritis discomfort, while losing weight and stress, is to walk a dog. Pit Bulls are great exercise buddies (and couch potatoes.)

Where: Stony Point Fashion Park, Richmond, VA (by Panera Bread)

When: December 4, 2010. Registration opens at 7:00 a.m. The Run/Walk launches at 8:00 a.m. sharp, followed by an awards ceremony at 9:15 a.m.

How: To register for the 5K run or 1 Mile Walk go to: www.DogCaptionCards.com/JingleBell then,
Click on "Join The Team" link found in the left hand column and fill out the application form that pops up

---

DogCaptionCards Holiday & Christmas Cards

Happiness is contagious!

Help yourself and your friends "catch it" with DogCaption Funny Christmas Card Packs.

25% of every sale is donated to Ring Dog Rescue to care for our pups and help them find forever home.
http://www.1shoppingcart.com/app/?af=1263850

---

Thanksgiving Safety Tips

'Tis the season for friends, family and holiday feasts—but also for possible distress for our animal companions. Pets won’t be so thankful if they munch on undercooked turkey or a pet-unfriendly floral arrangement, or if they stumble upon an unattended alcoholic drink.

Check out the following tips from ASPCA experts for a fulfilling Thanksgiving that your pets can enjoy, too.

Talkin' Turkey
If you decide to feed your pet a little nibble of turkey, make sure it's boneless and well-cooked. Don't offer her raw or undercooked turkey, which may contain salmonella bacteria.

Sage Advice
Sage can make your Thanksgiving stuffing taste delish, but it and many other herbs contain essential oils and resins that can cause gastrointestinal upset and central nervous system depression to pets if eaten in large quantities. Cats are especially sensitive to the effects of certain essential oils.

No Bread Dough
Don't spoil your pet's holiday by giving him raw bread dough. According to ASPCA experts, when raw bread dough is ingested, an animal's body heat causes the dough to rise in his stomach. As it expands, the pet may experience vomiting, severe abdominal pain and bloating, which could become a life-threatening emergency, requiring surgery.

Don't Let Them Eat Cake
If you're baking up Thanksgiving cakes, be sure your pets keep their noses out of the batter, especially if it includes raw eggs—they could contain salmonella bacteria that may lead to food poisoning.

Too Much of a Good Thing
A few small boneless pieces of cooked turkey, a taste of mashed potato or even a lick of pumpkin pie shouldn't pose a problem. However, don't allow your pets to overindulge, as they could wind up with a case of stomach upset, diarrhea or even worse—an inflammatory condition of the pancreas known as pancreatitis. In fact, it's best keep pets on their regular diets during the holidays.

A Feast Fit for a Kong
While the humans are chowing down, give your cat and dog their own little feast. Offer them Nylabones or made-for-pet chew bones. Or stuff their usual dinner—perhaps with a few added tidbits of turkey, vegetables (try sweet potato or green beans) and dribbles of gravy—inside a Kong toy. They'll be happily occupied for awhile, working hard to extract their dinner from the toy.

Source: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/thanksgiving-safety-tips.html

---

November is Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month

10 Reasons Senior Pets Rule:

1. When senior pets are adopted, they seem to understand that they've been rescued, and are all the more thankful for it.
2. A senior pet's personality has already developed, so you'll know if he or she is a good fit for your family.
3. You can teach an old dog (or cat or other pet) new tricks: Senior pets have the attention span and impulse control that makes them easier to train than their youthful counterparts.
4. A senior pet may very well already know basic commands anyway!
5. In particular, senior pets are often already housetrained, or can be more easily housetrained than a young pet with a tiny bladder.
6. A senior pet won't grow any larger (well, height and length-wise :), so you'll know exactly how much pet you're getting.
7. Senior pets are often content to just relax in your company, unlike younger pets, who may get into mischief because they're bored.
8. Speaking of relaxing, senior pets make great napping buddies.
9. Senior pets know that chew toys (not shoes) are for chewing and scratching posts (not furniture) are for scratching.
10. Senior pets are some of the hardest to find homes for -- so when you adopt a senior pet, you're truly saving a life.

Paws-itively Fun Indoor Games for Dogs

When it's raining or too cold to go out and play, try these fun indoor dog games.
By Arden Moore

To start playing indoors, pick a room with enough space for tail-wagging romps, and stash the breakables out of puppy's reach. Intermingle tricks and games with a few reinforcing obedience commands, and you'll have a fun-loving dog with good manners. Let the games begin!

Play hide-and-seek. Have your dog heel by your side in a room. Throw a treat across the room. As your dog darts after it, slip around the corner out of sight and call your dog by name. When he races to you, reward him with a treat and plenty of praise. Repeat four or five times.

Teach your dog to behave like a Houdini hound. Hold a small treat or ball in one closed fist and keep the other fist empty. Extend both arms out and ask your dog, "Which hand?" Let him sniff both. When he noses the fist with the toy or food, open your hand, show it, and praise. Repeat, randomly moving the toy or food into your left or right hand. Now you're both ready for an audience!

Have your dog "find the keys." Stash your keys on the couch, under a chair, or in your dog's bed. When he brings them to you, reward him with a treat. Then stash them in a new place and repeat the retrieve-and-get-a-treat steps.

Play "get the remote control." Dogs like jobs. While having your dog fetch the remote brings out the true couch potato in you, it gives your dog a mission. When he brings you a remote, reward him with a treat and plenty of praise. Then sit down and enjoy a good canine caper together — perhaps "Frasier" or "Lassie" reruns.

Excerpted from "50 Simple Ways to Pamper Your Dog" by Arden Moore. (Storey Books, 2000)

Free Spay/Neuter to the Bully Owning Residents in the Meadowdale are of Chesterfield County!

Since the only way to get control of the pet overpopulation is to spay & neuter, RDR is offering free spay/neuter services on Sunday Oct. 24, 2010 in honor of National Pit Bull Awareness Day! Please contact us for more info or click the link below to sign up!
http://ringdogrescue.wufoo.com/forms/z7x2x3/

This service is in partnership with Richmond Animal League's Loving Spay/Neuter Clinic! www.ral.org

National Pit Bull Awareness Day 2010 - Training People for Pits Sake!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

With so many dog fighting cases pending in our local area, and the conviction of Michael Vick, the time could never be better for an event which educates the public and honors these unjustly maligned animals.

National Pit Bull Awareness Day is a concept created by a Tennessee pit bull rescue in 2007 with the intent of creating a national day on which pit bulls are celebrated versus demonized. In stark contrast to the daily abuse and victimization of these dogs, this day is intended to be a day to cherish these animals. The event has grown in support since it’s inception with 2008 being marked by 150 celebrations across the United States and even events as far away as Canada and Russia.

In celebration of National Pit Bull Awareness Day on October 23, 2010, Ring Dog Rescue is hosting a series of activities surrounding that date to celebrate these dogs. The centerpiece event of the celebration is a public event intended to provide training, insight, education and a place to network for animal welfare advocates:

NAME: “Training People for Pits Sake”

WHEN: Saturday, October 23, 2010 from 9:00am to 5:00pm

WHERE: Chesterfield County, VA Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall

WHO: Any member of the public with a valid admission ticket. Only spayed/neutered pets will be allowed. Tickets at the door are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4-12 (children ages 3 and under are subject to FREE admission). Training class prices are $25 per class or $40 for two classes. There is to be one dog per handler and no children under 18 are permitted in the training area.

DETAILS:

“Training People for Pits Sake” is a public event, featuring an amazing training opportunity for your dog, along with more than a dozen animal friendly vendors selling their products, along with food and activities for the children, to facilitate networking and mingling between local animal lovers. There will also be a special appearance by Gracie, one of the former Michael Vick dogs.

The training schedule for this event is as follows:

9-10am – Pit Ed

10-11am – Back to Basics

11-12pm – Feisty Fido’s

BREAK/LUNCH

12-1pm – Canine Good Citizen Testing

2-3pm – Pit Ed

3-4pm – Feisty Fido’s

4-5pm Canine Good Citizen Testing

In addition to the public forum, Ring Dog Rescue is additionally providing free spay and neuter and transport to pit bulls in the Meadowdale are of Chesterfield County on October 24, 2010 in partnership with Richmond Animal League (www.ral.org).

Its a great day for Pit Bull Type Dogs!

Federal law leashes pit bull restrictions
6:00 am September 29, 2010, by Bob Barr
Municipal governments from New York City to Miami, and from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Denver, have responded to fear of pit bulls and similar breeds of dogs, by severely restricting their ownership or banning them entirely from their jurisdictions. Now, thanks to a rule issued recently by the U.S. Department of Justice, such actions are subject to being struck down. Jurisdictions now considering such overreactions, such as Douglasville, Georgia, would be well-advised to review the Justice Department’s opinion before proceeding.
Dog owners and humane societies have long-opposed such arbitrary and overly broad laws that penalize thousands of pit bull owners who maintain their canine companions properly and without incident, because of a small number who fail to properly train and control the dogs. Courts generally have permitted such ordinances to stand, based on deference to the so-called “police power” of local governments to protect the public “safety and welfare.”
The 20-year old, federal Americans With Disabilities Act (”ADA”), however, may put a stop to such “breed-specific legislation.” The ADA protects measures designed to help persons with disabilities, which includes dogs used by disabled persons for assistance. Laws that outlaw ownership of entire breeds, including those that might be used for assistive purposes, would limit the ability of persons with disabilities to use such pets, and would therefore violate the ADA and be deemed by the Justice Department to be unlawful.
In what some might consider a rare example of the federal government recognizing that laws can be overly broad and therefore harmful to individual liberty, the Justice Department’s opinion on breed-specific legislation noted that such laws sweep too broadly; and that it is inappropriate to outlaw an entire breed of dogs because a small number cause problems. Such problems are the result of owners not restraining their dogs properly or inadequately training them, rather than the result of a particular breed’s disposition, and can be addressed by more narrowly-crafted legislation.
Unfortunately, there are still those, like the mayor of Douglasville, Georgia, who favor overly restrictive measures. The mayor recently noted in support of the city’s proposed pit bull ordinance, that he had no problem singling out pit bulls, because he sees them “on TV” causing “incidents.” One would hope that local government officials might on their own possess some understanding of limited government and individual liberty; but if the Justice Department at least in this instance will ensure that they do so by way of a federal law, then the feds are serving as an important check on excessive government power.
http://blogs.ajc.com/bob-barr-blog/2010/09/29/federal-law-leashes-pit-bull-restrictions/?cxntfid=blogs_bob_barr_blog

RDR needs donations to pay medical bills!

"Hi friends, its Indigo! Ring Dog Rescue, a 501 3c non profit in Richmond Va, and the Rescue that SAVED MY LIFE, is in serious need of help with their medical bills and medical fund. They have taken in many Pit Bulls that have serious medical needs lately and they really are in desperate needs of funds to pay the steep bills. They have Layla, a mom that came to us three days before she gave birth to 10 puppies, and now needs expensive heart worm treatment, Maggie who is like me and has paralysis and who may need surgery or at the minimum a $500.00 wheel chair, acupuncture and other costly therapies. These people work their butts off, giving freely of their time for the dogs. They need help , so I want to help them. If it were not for them , and the fact that they pulled me from the shelter and then gave me a second chance at life with excellent medical care , I would more than likely be dead. These wonderful people pull the dogs from the shelter that no one else wants, they rehab them and they find them amazing homes, they do it for the love of the dogs , not for any gain. Please help me help them!"

Training People for Pits Sake

In celebration of National Pit Bull Awareness Day on October 23, 2010, Ring Dog Rescue is hosting a series of activities surrounding that date to celebrate these dogs. The centerpiece event of the celebration is a public event intended to provide training, insight, education and a place to network for animal welfare advocates.

NAME: “Training People for Pits Sake”
WHEN: Saturday, October 23, 2010 from 9:00am to 5:00pm
WHERE: Chesterfield County, VA Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall
WHO: Any member of the public with a valid admission ticket.
**Only spayed/neutered pets will be allowed.**

Tickets at the door are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4-12 (children ages 3 and under are subject to FREE admission). Training class prices are $25 per class or $40 for two classes. There is to be one dog per handler and no children under 18 are permitted in the training area.

--> Click the link to register for a class — SPACE IS LIMITED!!!
http://ringdogrescue.wufoo.com/forms/npbad-training-people-for-pits-sake/ <--

DETAILS:
“Training People for Pits Sake” is a public event, featuring an amazing training opportunity for your dog, along with more than a dozen animal friendly vendors selling their products, along with food and activities for the children, to facilitate networking and mingling between local animal lovers. There will also be a special appearance by Gracie, one of the former Michael Vick dogs.
--> Newly added: Consultations with Terri Chenault — Pet Psychic. If you are interested in making a reservation, click here to fill out the reservation request form. SHE ONLY HAS 13 SLOTS AVAILABLE SO BOOK TODAY!!! There is a fee of $25 for a 15 minute appointment.

The training schedule for this event is as follows:
9-10am — Pit Ed
10-11am – Back to Basics
11-12pm – Feisty Fido’s
BREAK/LUNCH
12-1pm – Canine Good Citizen Testing
2-3pm – Pit Ed
3-4pm – Feisty Fido’s
4-5pm – Canine Good Citizen Testing

In addition to the public forum, Ring Dog Rescue is additionally providing free spay and neuter and transport to pit bulls in the Jefferson Davis corridor of Chesterfield County on October 24, 2010 in partnership with Richmond Animal League (www.ral.org).

Dine to Donate at CPK on Wednesday, Sept. 15th

Charley needs a new set of wheels!

Hi! My name is Charley. I am a 6 year old dachshund on a mission. Approximately 2 years ago, I became paralyzed from the waist down. My owners did not have the money or know how to take care of me. I sat in baby diapers in my own filth contained a kitchen until a couple of months ago when I was surrendered to Ring Dog Rescue who found a wonderful foster family to love me and let me be the dachshund I was meant to be! A make-shift wheelchair was made for me, but it's not sturdy enough for me. You see, even though i am paralyzed i don't let that stop me from doing anything I want to do! I run all over the place chasing my foster siblings, barking at the chickens, and too frequently I end up tipping over and my foster mom has to save me! That is very frustrating for me especially when I have almost caught my sibling or even a butterfly! My goal is to have a wheelchair custom made to fit me and my exuberance so I can run without worrying my foster family or having my legs chaffed! My foster mom is wanting to take me to the beach and trail walking, but my current wheelchair will not support the terrain safely or comfortably for me. Please help me to get a new wheelchair so I can experience life to the fullest! Thanks and much Love! Charley

NY: Make Animal Fight Attendance a Misdemeanor Crime!

A. 6287-B/S. 3926-A would make it a misdemeanor to attend an animal fight in New York State. The NY Senate passed its version of the bill, S. 3926-A, on June 22. Unfortunately, despite passing successfully through the Assembly Agriculture and Codes Committees, the Assembly companion bill, A. 6287-B, has not been scheduled for a floor vote by Assembly leadership.

By attending these barbaric spectacles, spectators make animal fighting a lucrative underground business. In addition, animal fights create environments that promote other hazardous acts, such as the sale of illegal drugs, weapons possession and gambling. Making attendance at animal fights a misdemeanor will give law enforcement an important tool with which to punish the spectators who drive the animal fighting market.

Sign the petition asking New York state assembly members to support A. 6287-B and to urge Assembly leadership to post this important humane bill for a floor vote.
-->Take Action Today--Click Here: http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/campaign.faces?siteId=3&campaign=AnimalFighting&ThirdPartyClicks=ETA_090910_AnimalFighting_F

URGENT — Homes needed ASAP for victims of a cruetly bust!

Click the images above to read more details about these wonderful dogs!

"All are unaltered, none are house broken and some cant walk on a leash. Tasha is HW positive. All the dogs were living together in a garage, some were in crates but I dont know which ones, other than Tasha. Most of the puppies didnt have names, other than Diesel and mousey. Some dont even look like pits the tan ones look like labs, so im not sure about parentage Mousey was so small she looked like a whippet who goes to the gym. she would be great as an "apartment pittie" or someone who wanted a pit mix but did'nt want a large dog. its heart brakeing to think that these dogs have spent 2/3's of there life in a shelter. I hope I got enought info, let me know if I can do anything else."

Please contact Nick today if you'd like to foster or adopt! nt.towers@juno.com or (434) 246-2167 / 5000

Raffle and Dine to Doante September 18th @ Ledo's Pizza

Buy your raffle tickets today! Ring Dog Rescue is raffling off several great prizes such as a massage from Massage Envy, yard cleaning services from Doody Calls, a gift basket from Holiday Barn, and much more! Buy your tickets today - $1 and come out on Sept 18th from 5-10 pm at Ledo's Pizza for the drawing (you do not need to be present to win) and help support Ring Dog Rescue! Contact embowes2@verizon.net to get your tickets today!

Just some financial facts for you...

In 2009 RDR spent $5,550 at the Veterinary Emergency Center (VEC)
In 2010 RDR has spent $6,600 at the (VEC) and there are still 4 months left in 2010!

Please help us help the bullies!

Star-Lite Fundraiser for the Month of August

They have extended the hours to 3pm-7pm! Come out, eat, drink, and save dogs!

Discrimination by the US Military against Pit Bulls and other Breeds!

During a recent trip to Prince George County animal shelter, I noticed a troubling sign posted that said that the shelter was unable to adopt any Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Doberman, or Chow to any resident of Fort Lee, the local military base in the tri-cities. Unfortunately for the two very sweet Rottweilers I saw at the shelter, most of the county and surrounding areas are stationed at Fort Lee. At the time I mistakenly thought that this was just a local rule that only this particular base had, however I am deeply saddened to find that our government is discriminating against these breeds at all military bases. Many soldiers who sacrifice all for our country are returning home to find that now are expected to get rid of their companions simply because of their breed and not any violent actions they have committed. What thanks is this to the men and women who are brave enough to fight for our freedom? As for the fate of these dogs, the new ruling, which became effective in January, has no answers. When journalist Steve Dale contacted a representative from Fort Bragg regarding this matter, he was told by the spokesperson that she "didn't know enough about dogs to comment". The fact is that most of these dogs will either end up running at large or be forced into already overcrowded shelters, who, in turn, won't be able to adopt them out to other military families. The major problem is that military families usually are the majority in military areas, so the dogs will have little chance of being adopted. For now, dog lovers will need to go a little further than just supporting our troops, we now need to support their dogs as well. Contact your US Representative and let them know that just as with people, discrimination against animals is unacceptable.

Cary Street Cafe benefit concert Sunday August 1st

Chester Applebee's - Dine to Donate July 30th

Summer Field Day & Farmer's Market - July 24th

Create a memory with your entire family at our Field Day at Strange's. This event is family and dog friendly. We encourage you to come out and spend the day with us. There is absolutely no cost to you. Learn about nature, vegetables, farming and more.
Read more...

Event Details:
Date: July 24th, 2010
Time: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Admission: Free!

Heartworms!!

Heartworms in dog are very easy to prevent, however they are very difficult, and costly, to treat once a dog already has them. Sadly, it is quite common for a rescued dog to have heartworms, as they have not had access to the same preventative treatment an owned pet would. If left undetected and untreated, a dog with heartworms will almost certainly die from them eventually. Thankfully for a lucky few of those dogs in our area with heartworms, Ring Dog Rescue is committed to treating heartworms and giving the dog the time it needs to heal during this treatment. Currently six dogs (Gatsby, Pauletta, Stella, Nilla, Layla, and Fatso) need to be treated through Ring Dog for heatworms, with a total cost of about $1,800, that is quite a hefty bill for a rescue to foot. Each dog will need a minimum of eight weeks to heal before it is able to be adopted out to its' new family. Any donations towards the treatment of these deserving bullies would be greatly appreciated!

Dine to Donate 7/21 @ Cheeburger Cheeburger

Comments on Recent Animal Cases including the Petersburg Fire Captain's "conviction"

Recently, many cases of animal abuse have been front and center in the local news. All of these stories are equally horrific and saddening, but the varying verdicts in the cases when brought to court seem to pose a troubling double standard in the courts when it comes to animal cruelty. In Richmond last week, an amazing victory was won on behalf of the pit bulls Ardeller Morris and her son abused in their home. Her son, Richard Robinson, received the harshest punishment ever delivered in the state of Virginia for dogfighting, with a sentence of 10 years in prison. Robinson's mother was also prosecuted for allowing the dog fighting ring to operate out of her home, however she maintained she knew nothing of the 12 pit bulls found chained in her yard that were in deplorable conditions and chained with chains weighing more than the dogs themselves. The City of Richmond proved itself a shining example of animal rights in this case, though nothing can lessen the pain these dogs endured, at least justice will be served to their tormentors. The same can not be said of Chesterfield County however, in the same week Richmond successfully prosecuted a 60 year old woman for abuse against dogs, Chesterfield set free a prominent Petersburg official accused of animal cruelty. While he was convicted, Jeffrey Ivey, a fire captain for the City of Petersburg, will serve no jail time for his 4 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty. Four dogs were found dead on Ivey's property, with four more left to die in pen. Ivey will pay a fine, but is allowed to keep is job, and even to own animals again! This decision is absolutely a slap in the face to animal lovers everywhere, but especially to those living in Chesterfield, their county did not even have the guts to stand up to someone who was completely fine with letting eight dogs perish and suffer at his hand. This decision sends a very mixed message to those who may think that it is okay to do the same thing, to those to have that "it's just a dog" mentality. This a dangerous lack of judgement on Chesterfield's part, that in the same week someone can receive the highest sentence ever delivered for an animal related crime, and someone can get out of jail time completely just to keep their local government job. I greatly hope, for the sake of all animals, that this decision is the exception and not the rule.

Medical Challenges

Sometimes with all the sadness of the heartbreaking stories behind many of the rescued bullies that Ring Dog saves, it's easy to forget just how remarkable Ring Dog Rescue really is. Many other rescue groups, while of course still doing a very noble deed, have difficulty rescuing pit bulls. Many do not accept bully breeds at all, much less ones with special needs, due to the cost and time invested in taking on less than perfectly healthy animals. Ring Dog does not turn down an animal for any medical condition it may have, treating dogs with heartworms, puppies with parvo, even Georgia, who required an amputation. Dogs such as Indy who uses a wheelchair, or Sailor who required two leg surgeries would certainly not still be alive without Ring Dog's commitment to doing what is right for the animal and not just what is cost effective.Ring Dog gives these animals time to heal until they are ready to go home and be a wonderful friend to some lucky person.These animals will be eternally grateful for the multiple 2nd chances they were given, and that gratitude alone is worth all the debt incurred from their treatment.

Layla - The Pregnant Pit Bull

So, the purpose of this blog is to talk about Layla..the lovely young, very pregnant, pit bull we pulled from the Hopewell Shelter last week. We were told she was less than a week away from giving birth, which she was, as she gave birth to 11 puppies between last night and this morning! Believe it or not we're getting flack because we didn't abort the puppies as we all know there are too many pit bulls in this world. Well, allow me to explain. Most of the time we will abort a pregnant female, but we will not when she is that close to giving birth when we acquire her. Those puppies deserve a chance to live when they have survived 65 days inside their momma who happened to be tied to the shelter door and left. RDR will fully vaccinate and spay/neuter all of these pups prior to adoption so not to perpetuate the problem. I want to thank her foster mom, Nikki, for staying up 24 hours to help Layla give birth, and our founder for staying available via phone all night despite having to work today! You guys have done a great thing and we have 12 beautiful pit bulls pups to help us prove our theory that "The behavior of a dog is directly influenced by the use or function he plays in the life of his owner." Karen Delise - Fatal Dog Attacks

Chance - my training experience!

So I have been at Holiday Barn for a little over 5 weeks now learning all sorts of new things. I know how to walk very well on a leash, sit and stay...even with distractions! I come when called and Melanie's favorite is the "Climb" command. I get up on a bed in the lobby and just lay there while other dogs and people come and go. I am so good at it and all the other customers love my big smile. I have been spending time with other dogs and enjoying that, I don't even react if another dog gets too pushy with me. Winnie, Melanie's Foster, jumped right on my back the first time she met me and I let Melanie correct her instead of doing it myself. Everyone here is so proud of me...and after 3 years of waiting I have an adoption pending...can you believe it! I am so excited about having a forever home and I am very thankful for the people at RDR for sticking by me while I waited. As always if you or someone you know is looking for some bully to love check out the adoption page, you may just find you best friend waiting for you!

Papa John's Dollars for Dough

Sailor Needs Our Help!

Meet Sailor. He is an 18-month-old pit bull with a heart of gold who needs our help. Ring Dog Rescue was able to save this special guy from being put down after a really rough start in life. At 8 weeks old, he was run over in his own driveway by his original owners. The emergency vet clinic contacted Ring Dog Rescue about the puppy and they agreed to take the puppy.

His foster mom, Lauren, is an experienced dog foster parent. Sailor is her fifth foster dog with Ring Dog Rescue. She says that "Sailor deserves to go to the perfect family." Sailor’s broken back legs have not dimmed his enthusiasm for life. He is sweet, people-friendly, dog-social and possibly cat-friendly too. Having had the pleasure to meet this young dog this past Sunday, I have to say I am smitten. He has a joie de vivre that defies any injury that he might have. His 15-year-old foster brother Brutus, the Chihuahua, is sure to help him remember his manners. Sailor listens to Brutus. As we parted company after my visit, being the gentleman he is, Sailor held out his paw for a shake.

Here’s the thing. Sailor needs our help. This fabulous boy still needs some medical attention. Since the original surgeries happened when he was an 8-week-old puppy, corrective surgery is needed to rebreak and set one of his back legs to improve his quality of life.

Please consider helping Sailor out by contributing to his surgery fund. He is a great dog that deserves an opportunity to run around like a regular dog.

More importantly, Sailor deserves to find his forever home.

Sailor is only one of the amazing dogs available through Ring Dog Rescue. Take an opportunity to see who might be your next family member.

Save a life -- Adopt a dog.

http://www.examiner.com/x-47757-Richmond-American-Pit-Bull-Terrier-Examiner~y2010m6d28-Sailor-the-Pit-Bull-Needs-your-Help

Bill to Ban Animal Crush Videos Clears First Hurdle

The Supreme Court’s decision threw out the conviction of a Virginia man sentenced to three years in prison under the 1999 law for selling dog fighting videos. Robert Stevens of Pittsville, Virginia, appealed his conviction, saying it violated his right of free speech. The U.S Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit inPhiladelphia tossed out Stevens' conviction and ruled the statute was unconstitutional.

The Department of Justice appealed that decision to the Supreme Court.
The High Court ruled the 1999 law was too broad and could be interpreted to include such activities as hunting. Justices also noted that dog fighting and animal cruelty are illegal nationwide.

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito cast the lone dissenting opinion in the case.
"The Court strikes down in its entirety a valuable statute that was enacted not to suppress speech, but to prevent horrific acts of animal cruelty -- in particular, the creation and commercial exploitation of 'crush videos,' a form of depraved entertainment that has no social value," Alito wrote. "The Court's approach, which has the practical effect of legalizing the sale of such videos and is thus likely to spur a resumption of their production, is unwarranted."
When reaching their decision, however, justices noted the court was not ruling on the validity of a law that would only address crush videos.

That language opened the door for Gallegly and other House members who wanted to stop the sale of “horrific” crush videos to introduce the new and more specific measure.
Pet owners can voice their support or concerns about the proposed bill to their Congressional Representatives.


Read more: http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2010/06/animal_cruelty_bill.html#ixzz0s62kzaHZ

Ring Dog Rescue Visa® Platinum Rewards card

Here's a new easy way to raise money and awareness for Ring Dog Rescue. Just start using the new Ring Dog Rescue Visa® Platinum Rewards card for your everyday purchases. The first time you use it, the bank will donate $50 to Ring Dog Rescue and we'll continue to receive a percentage of all future purchases.
As a cardholder you have powerful benefits. The Visa® Platinum Rewards card offers zero liability protection, emergency assistance services, online banking, auto rental and travel accident insurance, and more! Plus, earn points at hundreds of participating online retailers redeemable for name-brand merchandise, event tickets, gift cards and travel rewards options.
Plus, you'll be earning accelerated points (up to 15 points per dollar) at hundreds of national merchants, which can be redeemed for merchandise, account credits and Free tickets on over 175 airlines, with no blackout dates!
Please join me today in choosing and using the card that supports Ring Dog Rescue Go to http://www.cardpartner.com/app/rdr to request your card today.

First two weeks of training

Hello all! For those of you that do not know me I am Chance, a wonderful Bully Mix that has been with RDR for a while now. Everyone just loves me and my foster mom is very good to me but they say that I needed to learn some manners. I like to give people hugs when I first meet them but what I think is a hug can be a little overwhelming. The great people at Ring Dog wanted to give me the best chance possible to find my forever home so they sent me to Holiday Barn for a six week training program. I have been here two weeks now and love it. I go for walks everyday, I do not pull any more and Melanie, my trainer, is proud that I have not jumped on anyone for a whole week. The folks here are really nice and are spoiling me, buying me new toys and bones to chew on. I will keep you posted on what I am learning and I will be posting pictures soon. I hope someone reads this and sees how hard I am trying to earn a place in their home. If you or someone you know needs a bully to love fill out an application today!

Sailor needs leg surgery!

Dine to Donate at California Pizza Kitchen

What you can do if you see someone leave their pet in a hot car!

Long story short, there are crazy people out there who just don't care what they subject their pets to and then there are those people who simply don't realize the dangers of leaving an animal in an unconditioned car on a hot day.

So, I've created a non confrontational way to deal with the problem. Today I created some fliers (attached or you can download them at http://markadamsteam.homestead.com/dogs_in_cars_posters.html). One to put on the car where the pet is located and the other to fill out with make, model of car, license plate number and location of vehicle to take into the office of the store so that they can make a public announcement on the PA and get the owner to return to their vehicle. At that time, they will find the other notice that you have left on the car and hopefully, do something to help their pet.

I realize this does nothing to help the pet immediately but after my experience last year, I am seriously wanting not to get shot by an outraged pet owner and I encourage you to take the same measures.

Perhaps we can forward these to our neighboring rescue groups and get the word out. No pet deserves to die in a hot car and we can do something to help. Print a few out and just keep them in your car...just in case. I've included 2 color images you can print out or a black and white PDF. Sorry for the huge run-on email. This is just something I felt I had to do something about. Thanks!

Lisa Adams


Volunteer with CARE

Dine at Capital Ale House on Thursday's in June!

Dine to Donate - Papa John's Pizza 6/1 thru 6/3

Every time you order between now and Thursday, June 3rd, using promo code RINGDOG we get $2 bucks!

We Are Their Heros

We Are Their Heroes

by Jim Willis (c) 2001


If you worry that you have not made a difference, you have,
for only those who do not worry about it have not.
If you feel overwhelmed, if the weight of problems is too heavy to bear, remember it is a shared burden
and the strength of numbers can accomplish much.
If you think society and government are blind,
it only serves to remind that we need to change one mind at a time, one law after another.
We effect change by cooperation, not by isolation.
If you consider that we cannot save them all, and what difference does one make?,
you ought to know the joy of the one who is saved.
Mourn those we cannot save. It is a eulogy to their being.
Do not let their loss be in vain.
Be kind to yourself, remember your needs and those of your family and friends of every species.
If you give everything, what will you have left for yourself, or for them?
Strive to be happy and healthy. You are needed.
Achieving balance in life is a lifelong struggle.
We who help those who do not have all that they need should be among the most grateful for what we have.
Be proud of your accomplishments, not your opinions.
The quality of your efforts is more important than the quantity.
Forgive your own deficiencies - sometimes your caring is sufficient.
Everyone can do something, it is up to you to do the thing you can.
A kind word and a gentle touch can change a life.
If a seething anger wells up within you, because people are the problem,
remember your humanity and that people are also the solution.
Concentrate on specific needs, pay attention to the individual -they make up the whole.
See beyond the unlovable, the unattractive, the impure and the wounded - see that their spirit is as deserving as the rest. Help them heal.
Their eyes are windows to their soul and the mirror of your sincerity.
All species, all beings, share this Earth in a chain of life.
Care more about what makes us alike than what separates us.
Policies, rules and regulations are not infallible.
Apply them judiciously, interpret them wisely.
No decision based purely on money is ever the right one.
Listen to your heart. Sometimes we have to do that which we are most afraid of.
Be true to yourself and your beliefs.
Family may abandon you, friends may disappoint you, strangers will ridicule you.
People shun what they do not understand.
Help them to understand - kindly, softly, gently.
Those who do not respect all life are to be pitied.
Often the wrongdoer is as in need of help as his victims.
Forgive, then teach by example.
Educate yourself or you cannot hope to teach others.
No action based in hatred is ever right and anger drowns out wisdom.
Yours may be a voice crying in the wilderness, make it a voice to be respected.
Listen more than you talk, be courteous and reliable.
Learn to ask for help. Never waiver from the truth.
Know that it takes a lot of strength to cry and with every defeat, we learn.
All Creation celebrates that which is in its own best interest.
The Children are our hope - nurture them.
Nature is our legacy - protect it.
The Animals are our brethren - learn from them.
Your rewards will not be material, but they will be meaningful, and the courage of your convictions can survive anything.
We are small boats cast adrift on a cruel sea, but someday
the tide will turn toward a safe harbor. No matter how dark
the storm clouds, or deep the pain of heartbreak - never forget:
We are their heroes.

Dine to Donate this Saturday at Melting Pot

Dog & Car Wash This Sunday at Brusters!!

RAIN DATE: 5/30

2nd $5,000 GoodSearch Giveaway - Three Days Only

GoodSearch will donate $1 (up to $5,000 total) for every toolbar that is downloaded between May 19th at 12 noon and May 21st at 12 noon Eastern! To help our cause benefit from this contest, please download our toolbar now by following this link - http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/ring-dog-rescue

Our new toolbar is free to download and allows you to raise money for our cause virtually every time you search or shop online! Once added to IE or Firefox, each time you shop at more than 1,400 stores (from Amazon to Zazzle!) a percentage of your purchase will automatically be donated to our cause - at no cost to you (and you may even save money as the toolbar also provides you thousands of discount coupons and free shipping offers!). The toolbar also has a search box and each time you search the Internet, about a penny is donated to our cause.

Please hurry and do this now so that we can earn the $1 bonus per toolbar!

And, please pass this along to all of your friends. The two minutes it takes to add this toolbar to your browser can make a lifetime of difference for our cause!
Get the toolbar NOW! http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/ring-dog-rescue

Come see RDR at Woofstock this Saturday!!!

May 15, 2010
http://www.ral.org/woofstock/

In addition to our awesome dogs and schwag we'll have with us, we are holding a special raffle for a 10x10 custom pet portrait, thanks to Do Dad Dogs! The drawing will take place at 4pm and the winner will be notified within 24 hours — you need not be present to win.

RAL's family friendly dog festival to raise money for homeless animals. Monument Avenue between Allen & Lombardy. 10am-4pm

Fundraising Dog Walk - Vendors - Live Music - Food & Drink - Kids Games - Dog Contests & Agility - Dog Adoptions

Strut Your Mutt Walk - 9:30am

Strut Your Mutt walk is a fundraising dog walk that kicks off Woofstock. Area dog lovers collect donations to help support the animals at Richmond Animal League. On walk day, they bring their canine friends to enjoy a leisurely stroll down Monument Avenue. All registrants will receive a collection envelope in the mail and are encouraged to create online fundraising pages where supporters can donate securely online with a credit card.

Sponsorship & Vendor Opportunities

The Richmond Animal League can provide your business with media exposure, logo impressions and a tent at Woofstock. To find out more about becoming a Sponsor or Vendor, please contact Susan Kelly, Director of Development, at Susan@ral.org or 804.379.0046 ext. 112.

Dogs for Adoption

Come to Woofstock for the largest dog adoption event in Richmond! Animal rescue groups from across the area are invited to showcase their dogs. If your group would like to participate, please contact Susan Kelly, Susan@ral.org or 804.379.0046 ext. 112.

A Dog Day Afternoon in New Town This Saturday from Noon-4pm!

Business: The Nautical Dog - 'Gifts for you, the home, & your 4-legged friend'
Start: Sat, May 8, 2010 ; 12:00 p.m.
End: Sat, May 8, 2010 ; 4:00 p.m.
Location: The Nautical Dog
Email: thenauticaldog@yahoo.com

Details: Please join us for a dog day afternoon in New Town sponsored by The Nautical Dog & Barnes & Noble. Jean Keating will be @ The Nautical Dog hosting a book signing on her 4 titles including "Pawprints Through the Years" & Barbara King will be @ Barnes & Noble hosting a book signing on "Being with Animals". For this day only dogs are allowed in the New Town Barnes & Noble. Also we are very excited to announce that Ring Dog Rescue will be hosting an adoption the same day & raising awareness of the Bully Breeds. You will also be able to buy Ring Dog Rescue merchandise to benefit their cause. We are also holding a benefit raffle for a gift basket. Tickets are $1 each and all the money is going to Ring Dog Resue. Bring your dog out to New Town May 8th.

http://www.nauticaldogwilliamsburg.com/

Pit Bulls Needing Homes at the New Kent Animal Shelter!

FOSTERING SAVES LIVES! ADOPT OR FOSTER ONE OF THESE GREAT DOGS TODAY! To foster contact ringdog@ringdogrscue.org! To adopt please contact Melissa at the shelter (info below)!

There are 4 pit mixes in the pound in New Kent and we are hoping for fosters and adopters for these great dogs!!! http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/VA382.html

Precious, Am. Staff X, 2 yrs, tan, fun, energetic, vocal, was penned out in a yard for the last year, not spayed, $ avail, current vaccs.





Rachel, 1.5 yrs, pit/hound f/s, current vaccs, dewormed. She was tied in backyard most of her life, loves kids and other dogs.







George, 6 mths, white/light brindle, male not neutered, $ avail, current vaccs, very sweet boy.




Tyler, 1 yr, black w/ white, not neutered, $ avail, needs vaccs, knows sit, energetic, barks thru fence when greeting, wags when door opens.

Order some Papa John's Pizza this Tuesday through Thursday (use promo code "ringdog") and help some dogs! Win, Win!

Who doesn't love Papa John's Pizza??? They have teamed up with Ring Dog Rescue and for every pizza ordered online from May 4-May 6 in the Richmond, VA area, RDR gets proceeds from each sale!

When ordering, you must use the promo code ringdog.

Stop That Scratching by Nancy Kay, DVM ©

If the sounds of a canine or feline “scratchfest” is interrupting your slumber, or you’re snarling, “Stop scratching!” several times a day, chances are you have an allergic pet on your hands. Just as with human hay fever, most dog and cat allergies are the result of an exaggerated immune system response to allergens in the environment such as plant pollens, tree pollens, and mold spores. The scientific name for this inherited allergic condition is atopy or atopic dermatitis. Terriers of any type are notorious atopy sufferers along with Dalmatians, Lhasa Apsos, Shar-peis, Bulldogs, and Labrador Retrievers.

Whereas people are prone to runny nose and eyes, dogs and cats with atopy develop itchy skin, often accompanied by skin and ear infections. Symptoms are initially mild and seasonal, but tend to progress year by year in terms of severity and duration. Fortunately, there are many options for treating atopy including medicated shampoos, antihistamines, fatty acid supplements, and drugs that alter the immune system’s overzealous behavior (cyclosporine, cortisone). Just as for people, desensitization injections can be administered after specific testing is done to determine which allergens are provoking the immune response. Elimination of exposure to the allergens may also be an option (a good excuse to move to Hawaii!).

Some dogs and cats develop allergies to their food. This can result in year round itchy skin, ear infections, and/or gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea, gassiness). If a food allergy is suspected, your veterinarian will recommend an “elimination food trial.” This requires strict adherence (including elimination of your pet’s favorite treats) to feeding a novel protein diet for six to eight weeks. There are many such diets to choose from these days that contain duck, rabbit, venison, salmon, and even kangaroo! If the chronic symptoms disappear in response to the diet change, voila, the diagnosis of food allergy has been made. One must then hope that, over time, the animal doesn’t develop an allergy to the new diet!

Lastly, some dogs and cats develop an allergy to fleas, more specifically, to the flea’s saliva. Whereas many fleas are required to cause most animals to scratch like crazy, for those with a flea allergy, just one bite is all it takes to set off an intensely itchy reaction that can last for days. The best treatment for this allergy is stringent flea control, or relocation to Colorado; fleas don’t survive in high altitude locations!

‘Tis the season for fleas and seasonal atopy. Do you have an itchy dog or cat on your hands? If so, what will your strategy be to soothe your pet’s itch and preserve your sanity?

If you would like to respond publicly, please visit http://speakingforspot.com/blog/?p=886.

Best wishes to you and your four-legged family members for abundant good health, Nancy Kay, DVM

Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Recipient, American Animal Hospital Association 2009 Animal Welfare and Humane Ethics Award
Recipient, 2009 Dog Writers Association of America Award for Best Blog
Recipient, 2009 Eukanuba Canine Health Award

Author of Speaking for Spot: Be the Advocate Your Dog Needs to Live a Happy, Healthy, Longer LifeWebsite: http://www.speakingforspot.com

Become a Fan of Speaking for Spot on Facebook Please visit http://www.speakingforspot.com to read excerpts from Speaking for Spot. There you will also find "Advocacy Aids"- helpful health forms you can download and use for your own dog, and a collection of published articles on advocating for your pet's health.

Richmond City Council and Richmond Animal Care and Control

Hello! Below is a copy of the message the RSPCA sent yesterday evening to their online supporters that reside in the City regarding the reassignment of RAC&C. Please share it with anyone you know who also lives in the City and would be willing to write his or her Council representative or attend Monday’s meeting of Council. It is vitally important that there are folks to speak against the City Administration’s proposals. Thank you for your help and support!

On Monday, April 26 at 6 p.m. at City Hall (900 E. Broad St., 2nd Floor), Richmond City Council will discuss the reassignment of Richmond Animal Care and Control (RAC&C) within the City structure. As you may recall from prior messages I sent last month, when this issue was first being addressed by City Council, RAC&C must be reassigned because the department it now reports to – General Services – is being abolished.

If City Administration has its way, RAC&C will move to the Department of Public Works or it will become a stand alone agency that reports directly to the deputy chief administrative officer for operations. In our view and that of many others, neither reassignment proposal is satisfactory for a myriad of reasons. Regarding Public Works, it shares no similarities with RAC&C and many argue that it is already an overtaxed department that is neither effective nor efficient. Regarding the suggestion that RAC&C would become a stand alone agency, historically standalone agencies in the City have not fared well and have not had anyone looking out for their welfare. In addition, they have suffered from a lack of attention from upper-level management.
Our organization believes it is crucially important that RAC&C be reassigned to the Police Department. The rationale for this opinion includes:

RAC&C serves an important public safety function, and citizens rely on it to respond promptly and effectively to emergency calls.
The division is responsible for investigating and aiding in the prosecution of animal-related crimes, most notably dog fighting and animal abuse and neglect.
As a public safety agency, its resources and staffing levels must be protected from debilitating reductions floated or mandated during difficult budget years.
The prevailing assignment of animal control divisions in the state and across the country is Police due in large part to the many synergies that naturally exist among public safety agencies.
Reassignment to Police would impart a valuable level of credibility and respect to the crucial functions of RAC&C.

It is in the best interest of the animals and residents of our city that RAC&C not be reassigned to Public Works or as a stand alone agency. Please join us in urging the members of City Council to not permit either reassignment the Administration is proposing and instead support moving RAC&C where it belongs – in the Police department. Please call or e-mail your representative (http://www.richmondgov.com/CityCouncil/contacts.aspx) to let him or her know your opinion. We also encourage you to make your voice heard at the City Council meeting Monday evening at 6 p.m. if you are a City resident. We appreciate all you do to protect the precious pets of our City and to support our good friends at RAC&C.

Tamsen Heckel Kingry
Chief Operating Officer
Richmond SPCA
2519 Hermitage Road
Richmond, VA 23220(804) 521-1312
tkingry@richmondspca.org
www.richmondspca.org