Ace and the incredible Rescue Transport Network

Posted on August 5, 2014August 23, 2021 by True Blue Animal Rescue

Angie Hewett is a longtime supporter of TBAR (as she is one of founder Melanie’s sisters!) and recently she adopted her second TBAR dog! Where Angie lives, in Buffalo New York, it is much less common to see animals in need of rescue and adoption due to many factors, one of which is animal overpopulation control with the heavy promotion of spay and neuter programs. In many areas in the North it is much more common for spay an neuter to be enforced (otherwise you have to pay high licencing fees for your animals), and because of this there are many fewer unwanted pets in shelters than there are in the south (some even call it “pet underpopulation”). This with the combination of technology (websites, pet databases, etc) has created a whole new networking situation in the US today – people in the North want our unwanted pets, and a whole bunch of volunteers are ready to pull together to do rescue transport for dogs to get them up to their new forever home! In fact, compared to purchasing a pup up North, the transport option is still less expensive! Keep reading to hear about how rescue transport for dogs brought Jack and Ace together in their new family!

Jack and Ace are 2 dogs that we adopted from True Blue Animal Rescue. How lucky we are. We live in New York State and True Blue is located in the state of Texas.

We saw pictures of these amazing Dachshunds on True Blue’s Facebook page. I saw their pictures and really felt like somehow they belonged with me. I also could not imagine how I’d ever get them since I lived so far away from TBAR. I also was a little nervous because what if I found a way to get the dogs here and I found that they really weren’t good fit for our family.

As I previously mentioned Jack and Ace do live with us and here is how It all worked out.

TBAR Dog Transport (1)

Did you know that there is a transport service that will deliver reduce pets to anywhere in the US? Did you know that the fee to do this is not very much and the animals are very cared for and comfortable as they travel?

Well these services do exist, and it is exactly how we got both Jack and Ace

Now for the other concern I had. Both Jack and Ace were with one of TBAR’s foster homes. These people are amazing. They take these dogs in and do whatever they need to do to heal these dogs and allow them to be successfully placed in forever homes. The foster that had our dogs is named Shellie. Shellie is amazing. She started with sending us lots of pictures of the dogs and even sent us videos so we could really get a good idea of the dog’s personality. We also talked to Shellie several times over the phone.

TBAR Dog Transport (2)

We have young grandchildren and wanted to be sure Jack and Ace got along well with little kids. We also have another larger dog and wanted to be sure the little dogs would be ok with big dogs.

Well, Shellie solved this for us too. She took the little dogs to a friend’s house who had little children. Jack and Ace did well with them. She also went to another friends house who had a big dog. Another success.

After the conversations with Shellie and finding out how easy it would be to transport the dogs across the country we decided to adopt Jack and Ace, and I must tell you we couldn’t be happier.

TBAR Dog Transport (3)

I want you to know how worth it that it can be to adopt a rescue dogs. Sure there’s an adjustment period, you have to get used to each other (generally they tell you it takes at least 2 weeks for them to settle a bit and start to show their personality), but once this is accomplished you couldn’t have a better pet. Rescue animals really appreciate it when they feel safe and are finally in their forever homes.

Please don’t ever rule out taking a look at True Blue Animal’s website. If you see the perfect animal listing I promise you that transporting the animal to you will be easier than you could ever imagine, and you will be able to talk to the person fostering the animal to be sure this animal will be a good fit for you and your family.

We love Jack and Ace so much and we are so happy we took the chance. They really complete our family.

If you are interested in any TBAR animal, don’t let distance stop you from inquiring! Email [email protected] or call (936) 878-2349 and we can discuss with you our rescue transport for dogs!

Success Stories: Patrick

Posted on June 18, 2014August 23, 2021 by Alissa

Patrick was found on the streets of Bellville with his buddy, Roxie. These two were starving, homeless and in need of veterinary care. True Blue Animal Rescue took them into their foster program and sent them straight to the vet to for a full exam, deworming and vaccinations.

Patrick thrived in his foster home with his dog and cat siblings. He loved chewing his toys while laying in his doggie bed or running around the yard playing with his doggie friend, Jack.

10296123_10202873894022923_691619583151753809_o: Patrick and Jack playtime

1900545_607245166019332_580997756_o: I’m Patrick and I’m adorable. Deal with it.

1800146_610440105699838_1562376460_o: Innocent eyes

Patrick1: Patrick

Patrick needed a few months to regain weight and adjust to being part of a family, but he was finally ready to find his forever home. It didn’t take long for someone to meet Patrick and fall head-over-heels for this sweet little boy. Now, Patrick has his own family and will even have a new fur-brother to play with in his big back yard during the day before it’s time to come in for bedtime.
TBAR is a 501(c)(3) non-profit no-kill animal rescue organization. If you would like to help animals such as this one please consider donating to TBAR, volunteering, fostering, or adopting. Donations go directly toward care, feed, and veterinary care of the rescued animals and every little bit helps us to help another animal in need of safety and rehabilitation. Save a life: adopt instead of shop and spay or neuter your pets!

Adopt a Cat Month

Posted on June 17, 2014August 23, 2021 by True Blue Animal Rescue

June is “Adopt a Cat Month”! Our pet of the week this week was Sable, and we have other cats ready for their adoptive home as well!

Have you thought about getting a cat? You can get great pets from animal rescues and shelters. The kittens we have right now were raised by loving foster homes and will be wonderful additions to anyone’s family!

“TOP TEN” CHECKLIST FOR ADOPTING A CAT (from the American Humane Society)

If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two. Cats require exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Two cats can provide this for each other. Plus they’ll provide more benefits to you. Cats’ purring has been shown to soothe humans as well as themselves – and they have an uncanny ability to just make you smile. A great place to start your search is online. Sites like petfinder.com let you search numerous shelters in your area simultaneously to help narrow your search and more quickly find the match that’s right for you and your new feline friend.
Find a cat whose personality meshes with yours. Just as we each have our own personality, so do cats. In general, cats with long hair and round heads and bodies are more easygoing than lean cats with narrow heads and short hair, who are typically more active. Adoption counselors can offer advice to help you match the cat’s personality with your own.
Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption. You’ll want to take any medical records you received from the adoption center on your first visit. Kittens in particular should accompany you to make the appointment – even before the exam itself – so staff can pet the cat and tell you that you’ve chosen the most beautiful one ever.
Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before it comes home. Visiting the shelter or animal control facility should be a family affair. When adopting a new cat with existing pets at home, discuss with the adoption facility how to make a proper introduction.
Budget for the short- and long-term costs of a cat. Understand any pet is a responsibility and there’s a cost associated with that. A cat adopted from a shelter is a bargain; many facilities will have already provided spaying or neutering, initial vaccines, and a microchip for permanent identification.
Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives. Be prepared so your new cat can start feeling at home right away. Your cat will need a litter box, cat litter, food and water bowls, food, scratching posts, safe and stimulating toys, a cushy bed, a brush for grooming, a toothbrush and nail clippers.
Cat-proof your home. A new cat will quickly teach you not to leave things lying out. Food left on the kitchen counter will serve to teach your new friend to jump on counters for a possible lunch. Get rid of loose items your cat might chew on, watch to ensure the kitten isn’t chewing on electric cords, and pick up random items like paper clips (which kittens may swallow).
Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family. It can take several weeks for a cat to relax in a new environment. It’s a great idea to keep the new addition secluded to a single room (with a litter box, food and water, toys, and the cat carrier left out and open with bedding inside) until the cat is used to the new surroundings; this is particularly important if you have other pets. If you’ve adopted a kitten, socialization is very important. But remember – take it slow.
Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan. You probably have a plan in place for getting your family to safety in case of an emergency. Adjust this plan to include your pets. Add phone numbers for your veterinarian and closest 24-hour animal hospital to your “in-case-of-emergency” call list.
If you’re considering giving a cat as a gift, make sure the recipient is an active participant in the adoption process. Though well-meaning, the surprise kitty gift doesn’t allow for a “get-to know-one-another” period. Remember, adopting a cat isn’t like purchasing a household appliance or a piece of jewelry – this is a real living, breathing, and emotional being.

If you are interested in adopting a cat from True Blue Animal Rescue, check out our list of adoptable cats, download our adoption form, and contact [email protected] or call (936) 878-2349 for more information!

Pet of the Week: Sable

Posted on June 16, 2014August 23, 2021 by Loretta

Sable was rescued by a good Samaritan on April 25, 2014, when he and his brother, Slate, were only about 4 days old. This kind person watched to see if the mother came back for them but she never returned for her babies so they were taken in and a bottle baby foster was found for them so they would get a chance to live.

Sable is a grey/brown tabby kitten (either short haired or medium haired –he has a little fluff going on right now) who will be looking for his forever home once he turns 8 weeks old on June 16, 2014, but applications are being accepted in the meantime. Sable is the typical rambunctious kitten; he likes to crawl over his brother and cry when it’s “feed me” time and falls quickly asleep after eating. He’s a talker right now, begging for love and attention at all times and loves the company of his foster mom. Sable loves his pitbull sister and protector, Lily, but is ready to look for his own forever family!

T-Bar is a no kill rescue organization and we operate totally by foster homes. Please help us find homes for all our animals. If you are interested in meeting or adopting Sable, please email [email protected] or call (936)878-2349 and leave a voicemail. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Success Stories: Gizmo

Posted on June 4, 2014August 23, 2021 by Alissa

Gizmo and his litter-mates were born in a College Station trailer park, but when their mother was unable to produce milk for her babies, a TBAR foster stepped in to bottle feed the 3 week old babies.

The babies were picked up and went straight into foster care where they received lots of love and attention. Gizmo grew into a very handsome little boy who loved cuddling and being the center of attention.

Now Gizmo has been fortunate to find a loving family who will provide for him and give him a restart to a happy life, as well as letting him be their little couch hog!

photo (8)

TBAR is a 501(c)(3) non-profit no-kill animal rescue organization. If you would like to help animals such as this one, please consider donating to TBAR, volunteering, fostering, or adopting. Donations go directly toward care, feed, and veterinary care of the rescued animals and every little bit helps us to help another animal in need of safety and rehabilitation. Rescue a pet: adopt instead of shop and spay or neuter your pets!

Infographic: TBAR Animal Adoption Process

Posted on May 27, 2014August 23, 2021 by Jess

At TBAR our mission is to save animals and educate the public to increase compassion and empathy towards animals (and decrease abuse and neglect and general mistreatment).

Our volunteers often donate their services to us, and today we are pleased to share an infographic that our friends at YOURinfoGRAPHIC made for us! This road map takes you right through the animal adoption process, from intake to happily-ever-after!

If you are a service professional and would like to donate your services to True Blue Animal Rescue you can contact us at [email protected] or call (936) 878-2349

Pet of the Week: Indy

Posted on May 19, 2014August 23, 2021 by Loretta

Do you love horses? I know I love horses. This week we have a great horse for you to consider. We have a beautiful Bay Thoroughbred gelding. He would be perfect for anyone who is interested in finding a horse they can learn with.Indy is one of 57 badly neglected horses awarded to T-Bar by a Hopkins County judge. Indy is now at a healthy weightand ready to find his forever home. So if you are looking for a horse to have for whatever job you want him to do. Or just as a companion for your horse you have now or for you, please consider Indy. He is sweet and beautiful and waiting for his forever home.

T-BAR is a 501(c)3 nonprofit no-kill animal rescue. Save a life and adopt instead of buying a pet.. If you are looking for or would like more information on Indy, or another animal you see, please call 936-878-2349 or email, [email protected] to make an appointment – click here to learn about the adoption or foster program guidelines and download an application. Fill it out and send it back (email or regular mail) and once you are on file as an approved adopter or foster home, you can meet any animal you want and take them home for a sleepover – try out. Please remember to have all your pets spayed and neutered. It is the right thing to do.

Success Stories: Annie

Posted on May 7, 2014August 23, 2021 by Alissa

Who would have thought this beautiful girl could ever live a life unloved and alone? Sadly, that is the life Annie was living before coming to True Blue Animal Rescue. We are so grateful, each and every day, for the fosters who open their homes up to an animal when TBAR receives a report of abuse or neglect. TBAR’s “True Fosters” don’t just provide food, love and shelter for these animals; we are lucky enough to have wonderful foster families who see animals in need and step up without being asked. This is the case for this lucky little Red Tick Coon Hound. Julee, a TBAR True Foster, saw a plea that was sent out by a Smith County volunteer desperately searching for a foster home for this emaciated little girl.

Annie was hours away from being destroyed at the Smith County shelter due to her poor health and a lack of space in the shelter. Julee contacted TBAR because the shelter would only release her if a 501c3 animal rescue was willing to “tag” and “pull” her from the shelter. TBAR officers worked with the shelter employees to receive approval to pull Annie. Once pulled from the shelter, Annie would need to hitch a ride to her new foster home.

TBAR arranged Annie’s overnight transport back to Brenham so that she could get to a vet for medical care. One of True Blue’s loyal volunteers, Ellen, stepped up to transport Annie from Rusk, TX to a temporary foster home for an overnight stay so that she could make it to her TBAR foster home the next day. Once Annie made it to Brenham, she received the needed medical attention so that she could begin her recovery and journey to find her forever home. What our sweet Annie didn’t know was that she had already captured the heart of one of the several people involved in her rescue!

Annie’s road to recovery was extended when she was diagnosed with heartworms and had to receive treatment before being spayed and available for adoption. Thankfully, she lucked out and had a very dedicated and loving foster home for her recovery period with Julee. Dogs in Texas who are not receiving monthly heartworm preventative are extremely susceptible to becoming infested with heartworms, which is fatal if left untreated. It’s not a matter of “IF” – it’s a matter of “WHEN”.

Annie’s recovery went as smoothly as we could hope and she was finally ready to find her forever home, but it seems her forever home had already found her! Ellen, the volunteer who picked Annie up from the shelter, decided that Annie had already made a home in her heart and that it was time to finally give Annie her forever home that she has long deserved.

Annie will never again know a life without a home, food or love thanks to the networking efforts of Smith County shelter volunteers and compassionate True Blue Animal Rescue volunteers who stepped up for a skinny, sick little dog in need. A rescue organization could not ask for better supporters and we are so thankful to all of our volunteers for their hard work. So much of the work volunteers do everyday goes unseen or unrecognized, but Annie’s story is proof of the dedication shown by TBAR volunteers and she shows her appreciation everyday with the love she shares with her forever family!

Success Stories: Lucy

Posted on April 30, 2014August 23, 2021 by Alissa

Found in Bellville, TX with a serious case of demodex mange, you would never believe that the dog in the picture above is the same dog in the “before” picture below. We can only imagine what kind of life this sweet girl experienced before coming to True Blue Animal Rescue and she was very lucky to be given a chance by a wonderful foster family.

lucy

Lucy was rescued and brought to TBAR to receive the medical care she desperately needed to become healthy again. After months of rehab, Lucy’s foster family decided she had become an important part of their family and that she belonged with them forever. Lucy will always have a lifelong battle of skin issues, but she now has a family who is happy to do and provide what is necessary to make her as comfortable as possible.

True Blue Animal Rescue wants to thank Lucy’s family for stepping up and giving her a chance at a wonderful life. Animal rescues are nothing without foster families who are willing to open their home to an animal with an unknown past and accept whatever challenges he or she may face.

RAIN Success: Echo!

Posted on April 26, 2014August 23, 2021 by True Blue Animal Rescue

RAIN Success: Because of the networking efforts of our community on the RAIN page, we were able to help this Catahoula find a great loving home before being taken to a shelter. Her new family has named her Echo and they are all in love!

From Stacey (her adopter):

Oh my goodness… She is absolutely a dream. She’s soooo good. Knows how to play fetch and brings the ball right back! She’s actually pretty calm for a puppy, we are so impressed and grateful to have her as a part of our family. She’s happy and very loving and fits right in. She likes to gather her toys and keep them surrounding her bed but drags this little fox we got her around in her mouth wherever she goes, so adorable. We have given her a name that seems to fit her, she even answers to it already! “Echo” is her name! I totally believe she was meant to find us, and I’m thankful everything happened the way it did.

She is so smart she even figured out how the iphone works to take her first “selfie” hahaha here she is with my daughter… They are inseparable. 🙂

Rescue Animals In Need (RAIN) is a referral animal networking group run by volunteers of True Blue Animal Rescue for animals in the community who have been rescued and are now looking for a forever home.

True Blue Animal Rescue gets more calls, emails and Facebook requests to take more animals than we can help. The RAIN Facebook page was created as a way to network those animals to the public in search of foster or forever homes.