Happy Tails

 

Did you adopt your furry friend from the Kentucky Humane Society? Or, did KHS help you and your pet in another way? We want to hear from you!

Submit your pet’s story and photo today to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . You also can mail in your story and photo to: Happy Tails, Kentucky Humane Society, 241 Steedly Drive, Louisville, KY 40214. It could be published in a KHS newsletter or on our website!

Finding a Second Chance at Happiness: Bear

At the Alpacas of the Bluegrass farm, the alpacas graze the green pastures and Great Pyrenees watch over them, acting as their protectors.

Bear, who was adopted from the Kentucky Humane Society, is one of the farm’s livestock guardians, and he does just as he was bred to do – protect his flock. His job is to ensure the safety of the alpacas and, of course, enjoy life on the farm in LaGrange, Ky. But life was not always so easy for the sweet canine.

"Bear" came to KHS in the summer 2007, underweight and homeless. The staff and volunteers adored the 95lbs. dog, but the 10-month-old purebred Great Pyrenees was suffering. All who met him could tell that he was becoming disheartened with his sad eyes and resistance to being returned to his kennel. But his luck was about to change.

Susan Swope, who always had grown up with dogs and horses, operates a working farm where Great Pyrenees guard the 35 acres to protect the alpacas from predators. They already had two livestock guardians – “Luke” and “Neon” – but Luke was to retire soon, so they had been considering adding another one to the family and farm.

That’s when Susan met and fell in love with Bear. She was attending the PAUSE FOR PETS fundraising luncheon to support KHS in early June 2007 when she first laid eyes on the large, furry dog. “I met Bear at the stairs before I even walked in,” said Susan, who has 50 alpacas on her farm. “I knew then that I wanted to take him home.”

The Swope family adopted Bear the next day, and he began “job training” under Neon, their five-year-old Great Pyrenees guardian.

 “Bear was such a quick learner,” shared Susan, who also has two German shepherds.

“He exceeded all of our expectations. He’s been a great help and gives us peace of mind when he works overnight on the farm.”

Since coming to the alpaca farm, Bear also has helped birth his first cria (baby alpaca). He still tends to “Penny” and is very protective of the young alpaca. “They really see the alpacas as their babies,” said Susan.


Bear also has gained quite a bit of weight since his adoption – the 17-month-old now weighs in at over 165 pounds! The Swopes say that Bear has a great temperament and loves children. He also likes to play with Neon when they’re not working and romp around with the family’s other pets.

“We were happy to give Bear a home,” said Susan. “He’s such a good boy.”    

Finding a Second Chance at Happiness: Ace

Dear Kentucky Humane Society,

I’m writing on behalf of Ace and the rest of our family. When Ace was just 6 weeks old, we adopted him from the Kentucky Humane Society and fell in love. He was the best puppy, a little needy, but instantly a part of our family.

Then, when he was 7 months old, we moved into a new apartment and discovered that he had a really bad barking problem while we were gone. We tried everything -- we got a huge crate, toys, and we even tried those ridiculous shock collars, only to throw it out the next day. But nothing worked, and we were devastated. We held out as long as we could, but our neighbors had small children and were not happy, and we were in no position to move. So, after hours of tears, we had a friend pick Ace up and take him back to KHS.

Completely depressed, we mopped around for days, weeks and months. We talked about him every single day and wondered how he was but thought surely someone had taken him because he’s so gorgeous. Well, as fate would have it, a friend of ours was looking for a dog and mentioned that she searched at KHS’ website. I decided to check it out, and the first thing I saw was “PET OF THE WEEK: ACE.” My heart sunk. He had been there 3 months and had grown from a puppy into a full-sized dog. We barely recognized him.

The very next day we went to see him. He knew us right away, and we knew right away what we needed to do. We moved to a new apartment within 2 weeks and then went back to get our dog. Sadly, Ace was sick and wasn't available for adoption until he was better. We waited a long week and finally were told he was ready to go home…Within 45 minutes we were home, with our dog, finally.

It has been over a year since then and we're going to Gatlinburg next weekend with Ace in a dog-friendly cabin we've rented. We own a house now, and he has his own backyard to run and bark as much as he wants. He is a spoiled brat who only sleeps under the covers, with a pillow under his head. He’s the man of the house.

The point is that we love him so much and almost lost him. We adopted him twice all and were happy to pay the fee twice for all you have done for us. I hope all of your volunteers know they are loved for what they do! Thank you so much for everything you all do! It is much appreciated.

With Love and Gratitude,
Robin H.

Finding a Second Chance at Happiness: Bobbie

Dear Kentucky Humane Society,

Thank you for bringing Bobbie into my life. She is an amazing cat! The minute I saw Bobbie, I immediately fell in love and knew I had to have her.

I’ve now had Bobbie for a few months, and I could not be happier. She’s definitely quite the lap cat, and when I come home, she’s waiting for me at the door.

I may even adopt another cat from KHS in the near future!

Thanks again,
Caitlin N.

Dear Kentucky Humane Society,

We adopted two puppies from you, just before Thanksgiving. They are thriving and love their new family and each other. 

Thank you for the work that you do. I just wanted to remind you of the happy endings!

Thank you,
The Cox Family 

Update on "Annabelle" from the Paw Street Journal (Fall 2008)

 A young grey kitten was discovered wandering the streets, with a broken leg, in early August. Homeless and injured, the three-month-old kitten not only needed medical attention, but a home as well. Marlo, a kind, local resident, found this young cat and, being an animal lover who works at a local veterinarian’s office, wanted to help “Annabelle.” So, he brought her to the Kentucky Humane Society for help. 

Thankfully, KHS was able to help the stray kitten. The KHS veterinary team immediately examined Annabelle and, after reviewing X-rays, determined that she suffered from a dislocated knee on her rear right leg, leaving the limb useless. Unfortunately, due to the severity of injury and the length of time it was left untreated, Annabelle’s back limb could not be saved, so the veterinarian recommended amputation.

Although Annabelle's leg had to be amputated, she recovered quickly in foster care, enjoying the company of another foster kitten named “Graham.” Before going to her foster home though, Annabelle stayed with some staff members at KHS and spent time with a foster dog named “Stella” and her puppies. The staff noticed that Annabelle loved Stella and her puppies, and seemed to think she was a dog!

While in foster care, Annabelle adjusted to life as a three-legged cat and loved playing (and laying) with Graham, the other foster kitten and visiting with dogs. She quickly recovered and soon was ready to find her forever home. So, a KHS employee shared Annabelle to their sibling, Angela Clark, knowing that they wanted to help a needy pet and adopt a cat that got along with their two dogs. After meeting Annabelle and introducing her to their canine friends, Angela and her husband decided to adopt the sweet kitten.



This is what her new family wrote…

“Minus (formerly Annabelle) has been a great addtion to our family. We had always wanted a kitten, but never thought it would be possible with our two dogs -- Dood and Sydney -- both from the Kentucky Humane Society as well. However, the meet and greet couldn’t have gone any better. Minus was so brave and our dogs were just curious, so we decided to adopt her and it was a great decision. 

She has a fun, frisky, playful personality but also likes to curl up in our laps or with the dogs. She loves her scratching post and her mouse door hanger, as well as her other toys, and even watches TV every once in a while.She still hasn’t developed a real meow yet -- it’s actually more of a bark. We think Minus thinks that she’s a small dog.

And you would never notice the reason we named her “Minus” (since she only has three legs) – she gets around great. But like I said, you would never know. She’s a great cat and a joy in our home…all thanks to the Kentucky Humane Society for saving her.”


Congratulations to Minus (formerly Annabelle) for finding a loving family with two-legged and four-legged friends!

Update on Simon and Oreo from the Paw Street Journal (Winter 2009)

In the Winter 2009 issue of the Paw Street Journal, KHS featured a story about a dog named Oreo who "picked out" a cat, Simon, at Feeders Supply. Oreo's owner, Saundra Newton, was shopping at Feeders Supply with Oreo. When Oreo saw Simon, the two instantly bonded.

"When we arrived at Simon’s cage, Oreo began to wail," says Saundra. "Simon reached his paw out and gently touched Oreo through the cage. Oreo continued to whimper and cry through the adoption process. Once we were leaving with Simon, Oreo became quiet and content."

Saundra also owns Hands On Physical Therapy. Oreo and Koala (pictured below) helped promote the company's "Putting on the Dog" fundraiser for the Kentucky Humane Society.

Saundra and other professional volunteers provided cranio-sadral therapy, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Ricki, chair massages and facials at reduced prices with 100% of the proceeds going to KHS. These services, along with revenue from bake sales, raised more than $1,000!

A long-time animal advocate, Saundra hopes to make "Putting on the Dog" an annual event at Hands On Physical Therapy. "Next year we plan to use more volunteers, offer more services, and of course raise even more money," says Saundra.
 

Lonely Hearts Club Member Finds Forever Home

In late February, "Ginger" came to the Kentucky Humane Society with an injured eye, which was removed by our vet. After surgery, Ginger was placed in a foster home so she could recover. Two weeks later, she was placed for adoption at the KHS main campus as a member of the Lonely Hearts Club.

Not long after, Ginger was adopted by Nathan Burnett. Nathan recently reported that Ginger is doing well in her new home. "Ginger has really taken to the house," says Nathan. "She's verbal, she's bossy, and basically runs the show. I'm so happy that I adopted her!"

Update on Dolly from the Paw Street Journal (Spring 2009)

In the Spring 2009 issue of the Paw Street Journal, we told you about "Dolly," a two-month-old Labrador retriever mix who was found near the Jefferson/Bullitt County line with an injured right eye. Here's an update about her:

Dolly has had her named changed to Coco. She has been an amazing addition to our family. Coco loves my 75-year-old mother as well as my 3-year-old grandaughter. She is very spunky and quite the chewer so she has plenty of playtime and lots of toys. She is loving her new doggy buddies, Stacy and Chloe. They are both mini pomeranians and probably don't know that she will be much, much bigger than both of them very soon. Her bad eye seems to cause no problems for her what so ever! But we will continue to have it monitored by our vet.

I fell in love with her as soon as I saw her and knew she belonged with us. We look forward to having her with us forever and watching her grow even bigger and stronger than she already has. Thank you all so very much for saving her. We will continue to love her and shower her with love and affection!

Sincerely,
Debra Knight

Update on Conrad, the severely matted cat

Conrad, a 5-year-old Persian mix, came to the Kentucky Humane Society a couple years ago with terrible mats in his fur. Veterinarians had to anesthetize the kitty before shaving off all of his fur, able to leave only the fur on his face and paws. The matting was so advanced that Conrad had trouble even turning his neck due to constraints from all the knots. The knots were also so tight that all of his fur came off in one large blanket.

Conrad's adoptive family recently sent us an update of how he's doing now:

I spent time trying to get the perfect picture of Conrad, but I just haven't been able to get one that shows how sweet he is. He always looks ticked off. He has a big poof of hair that is at the top of his head and it comes down to above his eyes making him look mad. His coat has come back and is beautiful. I think he knows he is in top form now!

He has settled in wonderfully and seems to be very happy and content. He will run to the front door from upstairs to greet me when I come home. He has learned the commands sit, up, come and stay. We are now working on shaking paws.

He now likes being brushed and will actually flop over on his side and fall asleep. When he first came to us, Conrad was antsy about having his underside exposed and his time limit was about five minutes. Luckily, there wasn't much to brush then.

He has two knick names; Crusty and Colonel Burnside. Crusty, because he always drags his chest hair in his food and water and Colonel Burnside because he now has very evident sideburns.

Thanks,
Tracey Champion

Blind dog plays fetch and captures owners' hearts

Dear Kentucky Humane Society, 

Milton was a member of the Lonely Hearts Club a couple of years ago. He is a black and tan Pekingese who was about four years old when I adopted him from the St. Matthews Feeders Supply adoption site.

I fell in love with Milton the first time we met. He was this little-bitty thing in one of the great big rooms all by himself. He just wouldn't stop barking at me when I walked up to say hello, but something about his bark told me it wasn't mean or aggressive. He was scared of something.

When I squatted down to talk to him, he stopped barking and just kept looking my way with the sweetest expression. It was then that I noticed his eyes looked sore. When I stood back up to read the sign with his name, I understood: Milton is blind.

Knowing this just made me love him even more! My husband had some reservations. He kept saying things like, "But you can't play fetch with a blind dog." I disagreed and told him that "fetch" would just be different. The adoptions counselor told me that Milton was so special that only the manager of the site could decide if I was worthy of his adoption, and she wouldn't be in until the next day. So, I took the next day off from work and arrived at the store when they opened. I underwent an interview like none other! But finally the manager was convinced. She said I would do great and helped me buy all the right things to take care of Milton.

In the two years since, Milton has become my little buddy. He loves my step-children, and he can't wait to go outside in the mornings and afternoons. He's mapped out every piece of furniture in the house. He's so smart! You think he's going to run into something, but then he knows it's there and just navigates around it. He uses smells and the corners of area rugs against the hardwood floors to know where he is walking. I read that blind dogs really enjoy doggy massages because it helps them with their sensory input--and boy is this true! Milton just rolls over and enjoys every massage he can get. He especially likes his little paws and ears rubbed.

And you know what? My husband and Milton play fetch every night. Milton has a little football that squeaks just long enough to make a sound through the air when you toss it. It might take him a little longer to find it after it lands, but we're cheering him on while he's looking. Then he brings it back ready to play more!

Please, if anyone falls in love with a Lonely Hearts Club member but is worried about adopting because of the animal's special needs, I would be so happy to talk to them about my experience. Truly, Milton's love transcends his disability. In fact, I would argue he's more "abled" than not. Again, thank you for all you have done for Milton and precious special dogs like him. I can't thank you enough.

Sincerely,
Corissa Phillips

Update on Oscar, the puppy suffering from severe pyoderma

In the Summer 2009 issue of the Paw Street Journal, we told you about "Oscar," an eight-week-old beagle mix who was found under a trailer and who came to the Kentucky Humane Society suffering from severe pyoderma, a curable, non-contagious inflammatory skin disease, on his face and body.

Adam Tesch met Oscar at summer camp this year, and he immediately fell in love. The Tesch family adopted Oscar shortly afterward. Recently, Adam celebrated his seventh birthday with a party at KHS. Oscar has certainly moved up from the trailer where he started his life -- Adam and his friends arrived at the party in a limo along with Oscar and lots of donations for needy animals still in search of forever homes.

According to the Tesch family, Oscar is a great dog who is doing very well. He goes to doggie daycare and loves playing with a dog friend next door. The family is not sure if Oscar's facial hair will grow back, but they don't mind. They love him just the way he is!

Behavior Training Spotlight: Leah and Barley

Five years ago, Barley, a flatcoat retriever, was just a year old when she was surrendered by her owners to the Kentucky Humane Society for being "too boisterous." Fortunately, Leah Dienes had the patience and devotion to help Barley overcome her behavioral issues.

"Barley was quite the wild dog when I adopted her," said Leah. "She destroyed everything from shoes to clothes to the seatbelts in my car. My wardrobe was way out-of-date and my best friend told me how thankful she was for Barley forcing me to update my clothes!"

From the time she was adopted, Leah and Barley have taken Behavior Training classes at KHS. "I knew Barley was a smart dog and I needed to try and keep ahead of her and help her to become a good girl," said Leah. "The training was as much for me as it was for her."

The two started with Basic Obedience class, then onto Manners for Life, Manners II Outdoors, Tricks-for-Treats, Beginning Agility, Intermediate Agility, Rally Obedience, Canine Good Citizen, Tracking, Agility Games, Control Unleashed and How to Teach Your Dog Anything. Recently, Leah and Barley competed in Rally and received their first qualifying leg. So what's next for the pair?

"We'll keeping taking classes and trying new things," said Leah. "Barley is a dog who needs to keep busy and I think keeping her in classes is fun for her. It also helps me to be a better dog trainer and communicate with herLeah."

Leah definitely recommends Behavior Training classes, even if your dog doesn't necessarily have apparent behavioral issues. "I tell people all the time that they should give Agility or Rally a try," says Leah. "Only good things can come from taking a class: connecting with your dog, good exercise, makes you both use your brains and most of all, fun!"

Meet a special dog named Mason

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Join us in Mason's recovery and the path he will be taking to a new happy life by following his progress each Monday – “Mason Mondays” – for updates on his condition. Click here to donate to his recovery fund. 
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1.20.10
Mason is looking for his forever home!

The veterinarians at LVSES have given the all clear for Mason to find his new family! He will still need to go to LVSES for rehabilitation sessions so his pelvis will continue to strengthen, but he is healthy and ready to settle into a home. Mason is looking for a home where he will be safe and spoiled. He will do well with kids of all ages, and loves other dogs and even cats. If you are interested in meeting this special guy (or know someone who is) contact KHS at (502) 366-3355 and ask about Mason -- you will be happy you did!

For all those who have followed Mason's journey and donated to his care, thank you from the staff at KHS and LVSES. Most importantly, "THANKS" from Mason!

1.11.10
Mason's world has changed again...he was brought back to KHS on Friday morning where he is being fostered and cared for by KHS staff. His activity is still restricted – still walking with the sling and getting lots of rest. He will be going to visit all his friends at LVSES three times a week. He thinks it is play, but we call it rehabilitation. We are hopeful that Mason will be far enough along in his healing process that he will be able to find his forever home in the next few weeks. Whoever adopts Mason will have a big task on their hands – he’s been so spoiled while at KHS and LVSES that he will be used to living the good life – a life that he definitely deserves given all that he’s been though. We can’t wait for Mason to find his forever home, and we’re happy to have dedicated supporters like you who never gave up on this special guy. Check back next week for more updates!

1.5.10
Finally some good news coming in about Mason! The radiologist reports that his pelvis is healing well and he can increase his activity level as long as he doesn't do too much at first. With his increased activity, Mason will soon be going back to the underwater treadmill – his favorite thing! Hopefully by next week Mason will return to his foster family – getting that “home” feeling again. While he has been working on his healing and recovery, Mason hasn't been just lying around. The staff at LVSES has been working on his brain too! He has mastered the “down,” and they are still working on his “stay” command – that one is a little harder for him because he simply adores being touched by all the people there!

Mason has had some ups: he was rescued from the side of the road and brought to KHS, and he has received amazing care from LVSES. He has had some downs, including his healing setback scare and his small mange spot that worried everyone too. But things are looking up in 2010 – this is going to be Mason's year!

12.30.09
Mason spent Christmas surrounded by the love and attention of the LVSES staff. It was a busy few days at the clinic so Mason had lots of dogs and people to greet. His leg is getting much stronger, he has built up some muscle during this daily sling walks and there is an obvious improvment in his range of motion. In the next week or two, Mason will get another set of x-rays to see how the fractures are healing. If all looks good on the next x-rays, he will be getting to do his favorite activity again - the underwater treadmill! As for the Demodex that was found on his back last week, the doctors are pleased with how his skin is reacting to the gel that is being used to treat it and they believe it will not spread any further. Mason is one really lucky dog and has much to look forward to in the new year.

12.21.09
Mason is getting stronger everyday but the vets at LVSES still do not want him to put full weight on his back legs. He continues to walk using the help of a sling. He is making much progress in this area, but Mason has had some more bad news: he has a small patch of hair loss on his back. Dr. Jennifer Schissler, the dermatologist at LVSES, examined his skin and determined it to be a non contagious mange called Demodex.  Technicians will apply a gel to the spot for two weeks, and it should begin to heal soon. Luckily, the spot was found early, so hopes are that it will not spread. 

During the day, Mason’s rehab technician, Jackie, takes him around LVSES so he can interact with the staff. Mason is even doing tricks and sitting for other people! 

This holiday season, we have a lot to be thankful for. We appreciate all of the time and dedication the staff at LVSES have given this special dog. Unfortunately, the Kentucky Humane Society sees many animals in similar circumstances as Mason’s. Some have been hit by a car – like him; many others have been abused or neglected. All of them simply want a second chance at a happy life. We thank you for your continued support of Mason during his recovery, as well as all of the animals at KHS. Happy holidays from all of us! 

12.15.09
Mason's x-rays showed that his bones are healing and that his screws have not moved any more. This is great news because it is believed he will not need another surgery! It is important that his bones fully heal, so he will not be allowed to walk in the underwater treadmill for a while - which is unfortunate because it became one of his favorite activities. He was getting to be quite the "swimmer" in the tank. When he needs to go outside to potty, he must still use the help of a sling because it is important to keep any extra weight off the bones and plates as they continues to heal.  Mason is still spending most of his time on bed rest, in his crate, watching the world around him in his calm and gentle way. Mason will remain at LVSES through the New Year's holiday, at which point the LVSES staff hope to resume his rehabilitation for his full recovery. It is obvious the staff at LVSES has been giving him lots of love and attention. He is a pro at sitting and shaking, and he's working on down. He loves to practice because of all the treats he receives!

12.14.09
Mason's follow-up x-rays are today. We're hoping the images show that his healing is back on track and that the delay in his recovery has not been significant. Check back tomorrow for more updates once the radiologist has reviewed the x-rays.

12.7.09
Last week we told you about the setback in Mason's recovery. The vets at LVSES are concerned that some of the screws in his pelvis may be coming loose so Mason has been moved back to LVSES to be closely monitored. Back at LVSES, he is receiving laser therapy and muscle stimulation daily, but he is on strict bed rest until it is confirmed whether or not his pelvis is healing correctly and if there will be a need for an additional surgery.
 
While on bed rest, Mason spends much of his day watching the flurry of activity at LVSES. He observes the staff and other four legged clients coming and going.  On the occasion of a bark or whimper by another dog, Mason looks up with concern in his eyes as if to say, "It will be OK." From the time he was brought to KHS and through his journey thus far, Mason has been completely calm and kind, constantly reminding everyone how special he is.         
 
This week should tell a lot about the healing process and if a second surgery will be necessary. In the meantime, Mason is in the best possible hands with a wonderful future regardless of the complications! 

You can help with Mason's care by donating to his fund. Click here to help offset the cost of Mason's very complicated surgery, his follow-up appointments and his long rehabilitation to learn to walk again.
 
Check back next Monday for an update on Mason's progress.

11.30.09
Mason spent the Thanksgiving holiday in a warm, loving home. Surrounded by people who care for him, things were looking up.

Yesterday, November 30, Mason's foster mom took him to his weekly check-up at LVSES. The x-rays caused Mason's doctor to be concerned that some of the screws in his pelvis may be coming loose. Mason has been placed on strict bed rest in hopes that with less activity next week's x-ray will reveal a more positive image. If the screws have become loose, Mason will have to undergo a second surgery -- which of course sets back his recovery to the point of starting over with rehabilitation. 
 
Mason's foster family says that he is a joy and an amazingly happy dog. "Mom" says he will make someone a wonderful pet. The foster family is committed to supporting him through whatever it takes -- including another surgery and longer rehab. 
 
We are all crossing our fingers (and toes) in hopes that the surgery won't be necessary, but KHS and LVSES are committed to Mason too!
 
You can help with Mason's care by donating to his fund. Click here to help offset the cost of Mason's very complicated surgery, his follow-up appointments and his long rehabilitation to learn to walk again.
 
Check back next Monday for an update on Mason's progress. 

11.23.09
It has been a little more than two weeks since Mason was brought to the Kentucky Humane Society with a badly broken pelvis.  Soon after coming to KHS, Mason was taken to Louisville Veterinarian Specialist and Emergency Services (LVSES) for medical attention. The wonderful doctors performed an extensive and complicated surgery, inserting rods and plates into his pelvis. After several days of recovery, the LVSES staff took on the task of helping Mason down the long road of rehab, so he could to learn to walk again.

Mason has been receiving laser therapy, acupuncture, “sling walking” and water therapy – all to help his body heal from his traumatic injury.  Mason has made amazing progress in his rehabilitation.  As of this past weekend, he was walking in the water treadmill without the support of the LVSES staff.  What was once scary to him, seems to be a pleasant experience now.

A big step was taken this weekend when Mason went to stay with a wonderful foster family.  By going to a foster home, Mason can continue his healing and rehabilitation in a loving home environment.  His foster family will continue to take him to LVSES every few days for the next 4-6 weeks for on-going therapy. After he learns to walk, he then has to learn to run and play....just be a normal dog again. But one with a very special story. 

For more about Mason’s experiences and recovery – in his own words -- read his blog on LVSES's website.

The path to Mason’s recovery is long and expensive. But you can help provide much-needed funds to help offset the cost of his very complicated surgery, his follow-up appointments and his long rehabilitation to learn to walk again. To donate to Mason’s recovery fund, click here.

11.16.2009
Mason’s  badly broken pelvis was rebuilt more than a week ago. Considering the extent of his injuries and the complication of the surgery, he is doing amazingly well!

Soon after his surgery, Mason started laser therapy  to promote healing of the tissue and skin to speed his recovery. The  LVSES staff has been working with Mason on "sling walking," which allows him to walk without having to completely support his weight. Acupuncture treatments have now been added to stimulate his muscles.

After having staples removed on November 12, Mason was ready for water rehab the following day. His first session using the underwater treadmill was great, and the staff expects him to improve with each session -- after all, who doesn't love a nice swim?

Mason’s life at LVSES isn’t all work. The staff has been spoiling him rotten! He enjoys getting love, attention and plenty of belly rubs. His rehab technician, Jackie, has even taught him to sit, shake and lie down! This special dog continues to share his kindness and joy of life with everyone he meets. For videos and more about Mason's time at LVSES, click here.

The path to Mason’s recovery will be long and expensive. But you can help provide much-needed funds to help offset the cost of his very complicated surgery, his follow-up appointments and his long rehabilitation to learn to walk again. To donate to Mason’s fund, click here.

Through your support, KHS can continue to help Mason recover and find his forever home.

11.9.2009
Mason came to the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) on November 3 after being hit by a car. His injuries were very severe – his pelvis was fractured on both sides and in multiple places. His pelvis was all but destroyed. Even in his pain he still managed to give a “kiss” to those who were helping him.  The KHS staff could tell that even through his pain and discomfort, this dog loved people and life.

With the generous assistance of Louisville Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Services (LVSES), the next day Mason's pelvic area was completely rebuilt. The surgery was very complex and lasted more than eight hours, but went well. Because of the severity of Mason’s injuries, multiple metal plates were used to hold the fractured bone in place.

Mason has a long road ahead of him. His injuries and surgery were so extensive that there could still be set backs. He will have many follow up appointments to check on the healing and stability of the metal plates now in his pelvis. His rehabilitation will be long and difficult – he will have to learn to walk again. Through the support and love of volunteers, KHS and LVSES staff we are hopeful he will regain the ability to walk, run and play again. 

Join us in his recovery and the path he will be taking to a new happy life by following his progress each Monday – “Mason Mondays” – for updates on his condition.

If you'd like to help offset the cost of Mason's very complicated surgery, his follow-up appointments and his long rehabilitation to learn to walk again, click here.

A Constant Companion: Tawny

My husband, Andrew, and I adopted our little girl, Tawny, from the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) in June. Andrew is in the United States Army and stationed at Fort Knox, and they are deploying for a one year tour in Afghanistan in late December/early January. We walked into the KHS Main Campus and were greeted with smiles and a very helpful staff. We saw so many cute and energetic pups, and then I saw Tawny, a two-month-old Catahoula mix. It was love at first sight. I took her out of her cage and we went outside only to see that our personalities meshed perfectly. I told my husband we had to bring her home, and so we did! We couldn't be happier with her. My husband is in California right now training for his deployment, and I couldn't ask for a better companion. She cuddles with me to watch movies and tries to listen to the phone when she hears Andrew's voice. She truly is Mommy and Daddy's little girl!

Thank you Kentucky Humane Society for making this experience amazing and helping us to find the perfect pup for our family!