Join us in making 2014 a great year!

As 2013 comes to an end, we’re delighted to look back on a banner year for homeless animals! With 378 adoptions, we exceeded last year’s total by 62. And we have one important New Year’s resolution for 2014 – to accomplish even more! 

In partnership with the Pitt County Animal Shelter and Spay Today, we’re working every day to save lives and lower the number of unwanted animals in Pitt County. But keeping up with the costs of feeding, housing, vaccinating, spaying and neutering, and providing medical care is an ongoing challenge.

Moving forward into the new year, we’d like to add you to our lifesaving partnership. By adopting, volunteering, or donating, you can be part of the solution to this heartbreaking problem. Your year-end donation will allow us to continue providing hope and homes for cats and dogs in need.

We wish you a blessed New Year, and hope you’ll join us in making 2014 a great year for the animals of Pitt County!

Upcoming Events and Volunteer Opportunities

We have several exciting events and opportunities coming up this fall!

To volunteer for any of these events, please sign up through our volunteer website.

Adoption Stands - stop by and meet your forever friend!

Clay - available for adoption!

Selected adoptable dogs and cats will have the opportunity to get out into the community and potentially get adopted!

Loreeta's Frozen Yogurt (dogs) on the first Saturday of each month (next stand is this Saturday, October 5th), 1-4 pm.

Sweet Pets (dogs) on the third Saturday of each month (next stand is on October 19th), 1-4pm.

PetSmart (cats) from October 14-27. Several volunteering shifts are available, check out the schedule here.

*Volunteers needed to take care of leashed dogs or puppy pens. An adoption counselor will be present to facilitate adoptions.

Fluff & Puff Dog Wash - bring us your dirty dog and we'll give you back a meticulously maintained mutt!

Our final dog wash of the season will be held Saturday, October 12th from 10-2 at Memorial Baptist Church. Services available include a bath ($10 for small dogs, $15 for large dogs), nail trim ($5), and anal gland expression ($10). Baths also include a free ear cleaning!

*Volunteers needed for this event - washers, runners, and support (registration, etc). 

Bow Wow BINGO - feeling lucky? Even if you don't get BINGO, you still win by

Who wants to play some BINGO?

contributing to this joint fundraiser between HSEC and Spay Today!

Our last BWB for the season will be Thursday, October 17th at the Pitt Community Schools and Recreation Complex in Alice Keene Park. Doors open at 6, games begin at 6:30, and tickets are $20, which includes a dabber and six playing cards.

No volunteers needed, thanks to those who have signed up!

Yard Sale - get a deal, help us empty our overflowing shed, and contribute to our mission!

We are very excited for our upcoming yard sale, Saturday November 2nd 7-11 at the HSEC facility. Items for sale include pet supplies, household items, and furniture.

Have something to donate to our sale? Hooray! We are accepting household items and furniture (NO clothing, please!). Sorry, we don't have any room to store items, so donations must be dropped off only on Friday November 1st between 4-7pm.

*Volunteers needed on November 1st to organize and price items and set up for the sale. Volunteers needed on November 2nd to work the sale and clean up afterwards. You do not need to have gone through orientation to volunteer for this event.

Facility Volunteer - we rely on you to keep us up and running on a daily basis!

We always need volunteers to come out and help us care for the dogs and cats at the facility. Volunteering includes dog walking; cat socialization; cleaning and sanitizing cages/kennels, toys, bowls, etc; and assisting the techs in other duties as needed. You may sign up to work with the dogs, cats, or both (though not simultaneously).

Right now, weekday dog shifts are our area of greatest need, though all shifts could use extra hands. Stop by the volunteer website to sign up.

Education Outreach - bring HSEC to your group!

We provide educational outreach for groups of all sizes and ages. For kids, information presented includes dog and cat behavior, how to approach and handle a dog or cat, fundraising ideas, and general information about our work with the pets in our care. For adults, educators focus on animal welfare in Pitt County and HSEC's place within that system. Let us know what you're interested in, we can tailor to fit any group, from Girl Scouts to Kiwanis!

Inspector Hector: You've been deputized!

Inspector Hector is a four year old Shepherd/Pitt Bull mix.  He’s currently in foster care, and is sniffing around for a home of his own! Follow his adventures through HSEC social media #inspectorhector

Hi, Deputy Inspectors!  Just thought I’d check in and let you know what’s happening with your faithful friend, Inspector Hector.

I’m still hoping my super snooping skills lead me to my forever home, and hanging out in my foster home in the meanwhile.  My detailed research, using my extreme investigative intelligence, has led me to a few conclusions.

First, my ideal home is out there.  I just know it is.  After all, there has to be a person, or maybe people, who need someone to make sure their home is patrolled and safe.  I will know what’s going on at all times, and I want my people to be protected from any changes.   I will especially guard against any cats that might be bold enough to venture onto MY territory. 

One of the things I’ve learned for sure, and I’ve given it a lot of thought, is that I do love people.  People do some absolutely awesome things, like pass out dog biscuits for good behavior.  I always like to be first in line when the treats are given.  I think there are enough to go around, but you just can’t be too careful, I say.  If my foster siblings beat me to it, I am always patient and polite as I wait my turn.  People seem to like patient and polite dogs, so I try my best.  I also love to be petted, which is one of the things I’ve decided people do best.

I have also been told that I am a great playmate.  OK, I’ll admit that sometimes playing with other dogs is so exciting that I get just a bit carried away, but I have learned to calm down, and my foster siblings have been known to provide a reminder.  Now I’m one of the gang, and my superior reasoning skills have led me to believe that I’d love to have another dog to play with!

So I’ve provided you with a few more clues to help me, your buddy Inspector Hector, find my way to a home that needs me as much as I need them.  Can you help me along the trail by sharing this, and asking your friends to join in the search?

Inspector Hector: Morning Investigationals

Inspector Hector is a four year old Shepherd/Pitt Bull mix.  He’s currently in foster care, and is sniffing around for a home of his own! Follow his adventures through HSEC social media #inspectorhector

Inspector Hector here, reporting for duty!  Yes, I am still on the trail, looking for clues that will lead me to my forever home.

Let me tell you about a very important part of my routine, my morning investigationals.  When I wake up, like most creatures, I need to go out, if you know what I mean.  So my first task is to check out my foster humans and see where they are.  My research has shown that they are typically still in bed.  I have honed my skills to land precisely between the two, and have found that doggie kisses make a fine wake-up tool.

 I enjoy rolling in the covers, but I still have the outside business to do.  But on the way, a quick check of the house is in order for an inspector type such as myself, so I take a lap around the house, at top speed, before arriving at the back door.

That's me in the center, with my roomies!

 
Once outside, it is important to make sure the premises are free of cats.  I am not fond of cats, and definitely do not want them on the property.  I also make sure the squirrels know they are not welcome, and once these duties are finished, I celebrate by vaulting over the rosebushes and taking a few laps around the yard.  It is such a great feeling to know my job is done!

Sometimes, one of the humans will go back to bed with a cup of coffee.  That is my favorite time.  I feel it is my duty to check out the bed, and will join whoever is there.  As a reward for a superior morning investigational, I get chest rubs, right on the white spot between my front legs.  I must admit that sometimes the bed feels so good that I can’t help taking just a bit of a morning nap, often with one of my foster siblings. 

I just love mornings!  The only thing better would be spending them with my forever family in my forever home.  So if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to sniff out clues that will lead me there!


Although Inspector Hector is in foster care, it’s easy to arrange a time to meet him at the Humane Society’s Tupper Road facility.  Just call HSEC at 252-413-7247 or email HSECgeneral@gmail.com and we’ll find a time that works for you!

Success Story: Marky

by Siri Espy

It was love at first description!  As a volunteer writer for the Humane Society, I receive background

Marky

information on newcomers and write their bios for the web site.  So when I read about Marky, I suspected that he might be the one.

Having lost a beloved cat to cancer about a year ago, I knew that my love of cats and their  overwhelming need for loving homes would one day motivate me to again reach my self-imposed limit of four.  As a long-time cat mom and animal volunteer, I had specific requirements:  a male (more likely to get along with a sometimes unpleasant female cat);  an adult (to blend in with my three older cats); and an affectionate lap cat with soft fur to pet.

I started looking out for prospects at the same time my husband came around to the idea of replenishing our kitty corps.  And then came the e-mail from the Humane Society’s Outreach Director about a little fellow named Marky, using words like silky, sweet, loves to be held, loves to be petted. 
Visiting Marky, I learned he’d had a rough life.  He bears the ear-tip of a feral cat, indicating that he had been trapped, neutered, and released to survive on his own.  His other ear is tattered from a fight, and he is blind in one eye from an injury.  But this is no unfriendly feral cat.  He began to purr and cuddle the moment I picked him up. 

Ahhh, bliss.

So Marky is now part of the family, and with slow introductions, he has fit right in.  The other cats were undisturbed by the newcomer, who hissed at first before deciding that this is an OK place to live.  He bonded with us immediately, at one point purring so loudly that I had to turn up the volume on the TV.  He is contented and seems truly relieved and grateful to be where he belongs.

As Marky sits contentedly by my side, it breaks my heart to think of this sweet little guy, injured, frightened and alone, with no one to love and care for him.  With his easy bonding, it’s clear that he has been around humans and was likely treated well at one point.  We’ll never know what happened in his first few years of life, up until he was picked up as a stray by Animal Control, then transferred to the Humane Society.  But that part of his life is over.

It’s a wonderful feeling to know that my pal Marky will be loved and safe with us, with plenty of food, water, treats, toys, and a choice of two laps.  After all, that’s what every pet deserves.  And that’s why I volunteer, adopt and donate.  I can’t save them all, but I do what I can to impact the innocent lives of animals who desperately need help - like my sweet, lovable, forever cat, Marky.

Shelter Pets: Myth vs Fact

A recent survey found that young adults are the least likely to consider a shelter pet for adoption (31%) vs buying animals from a breeder or pet store (46%). At HSEC, we are dedicated to combating the myths and misconceptions that cause this alarming statistic. Please help us get the word out by sharing this article among your friends!


MYTH: Shelter animals remain in the shelter until they are adopted.

FALSE. There are many no-kill facilities, including HSEC. But they are the exception rather than the rule. Nine thousand animals are euthanized every day in America. In Pitt County, 2600 pets are euthanized every year. We have a serious pet overpopulation problem in this country. When you purchase an animal from a pet store, you are contributing to the problem.

MYTH: Only bad or dangerous animals are surrendered to shelters.

FALSE: In examining the statistics, behavioral problems are responsible for less than 5% of animal surrenders. The most common reasons for surrender are logistic. Moving and landlords not allowing pets are numbers 1 and 2, making up a combined 13% of dogs and 14% of cats. Other common issues cited included cost, allergies, personal problems of the owner, and no homes available for littermates.

This means that animals are largely not surrendered because they are bad or dangerous, and most did nothing to cause their abandonment.

MYTH: Only bad, sick, or dangerous animals are euthanized.

FALSE. 6-8 million pets enter shelters each year, and 3-4 million are euthanized - around 50%. In Pitt County, 68% of animals that enter Pitt County Animal Shelter are euthanized.

The vast majority of dogs and cats are euthanized simply because they do not have homes, not because of any underlying behavioral or medical problems.

MYTH: Shelter pets are second-rate.

FALSE. The reasons why animals are surrendered to shelters are largely unrelated to their temperament and behavior. It's true that some rescue pets may need special care and attention due to traumatic events in their past. This is hardly the case for all or even most animals that end up in shelters. If you are concerned, ask the shelter or rescue staff to help you choose a pet that best suits your family's needs.

MYTH: Shelter pets are all mutts.

FALSE. Around 25% of homeless pets are purebred. There are even rescue groups that focus specifically on animals of a certain breed. If you want a particular breed, you can find it in a shelter or rescue group. It may not have the same instant gratification of purchasing an animal from a pet store, but you may literally be saving a life.

MYTH: Pet store pets are guaranteed to be healthy and well-behaved.

FALSE. There are reputable breeders who treat animals well and produce healthy pets from healthy parents. But they are the exception. Around 90% of pets in pet stores come from puppy mills. These operations keep their stock contained in tiny, crowded, dirty cages. Animals receive little veterinary care, and once they have passed their useful breeding life, they are simply euthanized or discarded. Young animals are removed from their mothers too early, causing the same health and behavioral problems that people try to avoid by choosing purebreds.



For most people, their dogs and cats are a part of their family. We claim to love our animals, but we allow millions of unlucky animals just like them to be euthanized every year. So for your next pet, don't shop - adopt. Educate yourself about the reality of homeless animals in this country, and share this information with your friends and family. If we could solve this issue, we could save taxpayers two billion dollars a year as well as saving billions of innocent lives.

Inspector Hector is On the Case!

Inspector Hector is a four year old Shepherd/Pit Bull mix.  He’s currently in foster care, and is sniffing around for a home of his own! He'll be blogging here until he find his forever home, so follow him on the blog, Facebook, and Twitter: #inspectorhector

My beauty shot

Well, hello – Inspector Hector here!  As you may have guessed by my name, I like to know everything that’s going on and personally inspect every inch. So I decided to put my skills to work and check out how a great dog like me goes about getting himself adopted.

I must say my investigations so far have helped me find my way to a good spot.  A nice sort of human found me as a stray, then brought me to the Humane Society.  I don’t think living in a kennel is a good idea, so they found me a foster home.  But there’s one more trail of clues to follow – and they’ll lead to my forever home.

Nothing much gets by me, the Inspector, so I found out that a couple of animals in foster care like me wrote blogs and found their forever homes.  I love to find things, so here I am.

In my day, I have sniffed dogs, cats and humans, and I’ll tell you what I think.  I get along very well with humans, both the big ones and the little ones.  Sometimes, I get so excited around the very little ones that my tail-wags knock them over, and I have discovered that they seem not to like that.  I have observed that the medium-sized and bigger humans stay on their feet much better.

I’m living with other dogs, and in carefully checking out the situation, I like them too.  Cats, however, have not passed my sniff test, and I’ll be happy to chase them away for you.  People and dogs, good; cats, bad.  That’s what I’ve learned.

Hard at work on the latest case!

As an official inspector, I’m always on the job.  Some dogs would just lie down on a bed without
knowing what’s in it, but not me.  I need to look under the covers and then stretch out on the bottom sheet.  And I feel like it’s my responsibility to check out what’s happening in the kitchen.  You just never know these days.

The family I’m searching for will help me investigate.  I need plenty of exercise, and you’ll need to understand that I must check everything out along the way.  Hey, it’s my job.  And if you want to investigate me, it’s easy.  Just call HSEC at 252-413-7247 or email HSECgeneral@gmail.com to arrange a time to meet.

I’m  also looking for some deputy inspectors, which is where you come in.  If you have a good sniffer, can you help me find a home?  If you share this blog with your friends and ask them to “like” the Humane Society of Eastern Carolina page, we’ll be able to expand our investigation and gather more clues.  I’m on the case – how about joining me?

Jammin with Judd - Judd is ADOPTED!!

Judd is an adorable three-year old white and tabby fellow who was hanging out at the Humane Society looking for a home, until he moved to a foster home to continue waiting.  He told us he would blog every week until he got a home of his own.

Remember when I told you that I’m a living in a home kinda guy?  I thought life in my foster home was pretty sweet, but I found something even sweeter.  Yes, I’ve been ADOPTED!

I examine my body of blogging work

A while back, some very nice humans came in and visited with me, but they adopted another cat who came to the Humane Society from the same high-kill shelter as me at the same time.  Although I was very happy for her, I was also very sad that I hadn’t found a home.  Well, it turns out that they actually wanted TWO cats, and after they saw my blog, they decided to come back and visit with me again.  My foster mom brought me to the Humane Society for a meet and greet, and I made it a point to give myself an extra-special bath, not missing a single spot, so I would look my best.

So here I am, in my new home!  And I absolutely love it here!  When I first arrived, they put me in a “safe room” so I could get used to the rest of the family, but I told you I would try to be brave when I got to my forever home, and I was!  The next day, I managed to open the door (quite an accomplishment, I know) and I walked out and joined the rest of the family – MY family!

It is so much fun to explore the new house!  It has a bunch of rooms, and plenty of space to spread

Me and my new brother Micah

out on the floor, and it’s really exciting to look out all the windows and doors!  And along with the humans, I have three furry siblings.  I got re-acquainted with their other new cat, the one from the Humane Society, who has a new name but still smells familiar.  She hisses at me a bit, but I’m not too worried about that, and I really do like her even though she wants to be the boss.  And I adore their two dogs, who are really cool guys.  We like to hang out together – I think you might say we have a furry bromance – they are my new brothers, after all!

Ahhh. Life is sweet.

One of my very favorite things here is all the playing.  My new dad also likes to play too, and we’ve had a ball playing with balls!  One day, I was so excited about playing that I kept bringing him balls, but he told me it was 6 am and he had just gotten home from work, so I guess he wasn’t so much in a playing mood.  But my new dad is so awesome that it’s OK.  Later, I was just a bit embarrassed that I was playing so hard with a feather toy that I fell sound asleep on my back while I was playing with it.  Being a happy cat can be so exhausting – but in a good way.

My mom and dad tell us that they were very sad when they lost their last cat, but now that they have my new sister and me, they’re happy again.  I make it a point to give them lots of head boinks, and in return they give me lots of love.  I think it’s a pretty good deal all around. 

The Humane Society of East Carolina has many other equally wonderful cats and dogs waiting for their forever homes.  Come and visit today, and find your new best friend!  We’re open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 2-5.

Jammin with Judd - Let's Meet!

Judd is an adorable three-year old white and tabby fellow who’s living in a foster home since life at the facility was starting to get him down. He tells us he will blog every week until he gets adopted.  He really wants a place of his own! Follow his adventures through HSEC social media - #jamminwithjudd

Well, another week in my foster home, and I must say that I am certainly a living in a home kinda

guy.  I just love having room to sprawl out, and having humans around is absolute heaven.  Being petted and having laps to sit on – now that’s the life!

The only sad thing is that I know this is not my forever home, and I really want one.  I was a little shy and spooked when I arrived here, but after a couple of days I got very happy, and I know I can do it again!  Really, all I need is some loving, some treats, and a place of my own.  Is that too much for a guy to ask?

There is one thing that has been worrying me.  Since I’m not at the Humane Society’s facility, how would someone go about meeting me and adopting me?  Resourceful cat that I am, I scratched around a bit and found out that all a human would need to do is to call HSEC on any kind of telephone at 252-413-7247 or email HSECgeneral@gmail.com on a computer or smart phone to fill out a pre-adoption application, which is easy to do.

The people there are very nice, and they will make sure you and I will be a good match (I’ll bet we will).  Then they’ll find a good time for us to meet and greet at their facility.  My schedule is pretty much wide open, but you, my foster mom and the people at the facility can find a time that works for everybody.

I must confess that I’m not much of a traveler – not many of us cats are – but I really do want to meet my forever humans, so I’ll try to be brave.  So let’s get together!  I’ll bet we can be each other’s BFFs!

Bow Wow BINGO - This Thursday!

There was a farmer had a dog and BINGO was his name-o. …. Oh no wait, that’s the wrong

Your participation benefits dogs like Sadie Lou!

thing. We’re here to talk about our upcoming event, BOW WOW BINGO.  

Join us Thursday, July 18 at Pitt County Community Schools & Recreation (4561 County Home Rd) for a fun night of BINGO play. 

This won’t be your ordinary game of BINGO. There will be cash prizes, and you will be supporting two great causes. Bow Wow BINGO is a FUNdraiser for Spay Today, our local low-cost spay/neuter clinic, and HSEC. We’re working together to reduce pet overpopulation in eastern North Carolina. 100% of the proceeds are split evenly between the two nonprofit organizations. 

Admission is $20, which includes 6 cards to all regular BINGO games and a dabber. Additional cards, jackpot specials, 50/50 raffle tickets and light refreshments will be available for purchase.

Come out for a night of fun. And when you get five in a row, don’t forget to yell, “BOW WOW BINGO!”

Doors open at 6:00pm, and the game starts at 6:30. We hope to see you there!



Can’t make it this Thursday? Make your calendar for upcoming Bow Wow BINGO nights: August 15, September 19 and October 17.

Jammin with Judd - A New Place

Judd is an adorable three-year old white and tabby fellow who’s been hanging out at the Humane Society looking for a home.  He tells us he will blog every week until he gets adopted.  He really wants a place of his own! Follow Judd's adventures on Facebook and Twitter, #jamminwithjudd

Me (Judd) and a friend

Wow, have I ever had a whirlwind of a week!  I must admit I was getting a little down in the dumps at the Humane Society.  I mean, it’s bright and cheerful, and everyone is very nice to us cats, but it’s full of commotion and there are way too many kittens bouncing around and making kitten noises.  And it’s just not home.

Because the people there saw that I was a bit depressed, a lady who works there decided to take me home with her for a cage break.  I’ve seen her around before, and she was always a very pleasant human.  But as I mentioned before, I do get upset sometimes in unfamiliar situations, so this was a big, scary change for me.

Next thing I knew, I was being loaded into a carrier and into a car, and I was on my way to Ana’s house.  I’ll admit it was overwhelming to be in a strange place with a very young human and a couple of other cats – there were lots of brand new sights and smells.  Lucky for me, there was a great couch to hide under for a couple of days, although I did sneak out for food, water, and the litter box when nobody was looking.

Finally Ana coaxed me out from under the couch, and you know what?  It’s really a lot of fun here!  There are little plastic balls to play with, and they have a great sprawling floor!  And I love to follow Ana from room to room, and my very favorite thing is to lay on her tummy!  Humans are so cuddly!

So in the past week, I went from depressed to scared to happy.  Funny how that happened.  I really, really want a home of my very own that I never have to leave – I’ve decided that I will try to be brave when I have to move again, but I want it to be forever.  Do you happen to be looking for a cuddle buddy, play pal and all around fun cat?  I hope so.

Wordless Wednesday - Puppy Smile

Staycations: Explore your area with your pet!

Before we get into today's post about staycations with your pet - that's taking a vacation in your own town - let's do a little housekeeping!

Due to the sad demise of Google Reader, we have made the HSEC blog available on feedly, an alternative blog reading platform. Do you have another favorite blog reader? Let us know! You can also sign up for email updates. Just enter your email on the right side of the screen, and you will receive each new post straight to your inbox. Is there another way you would like us to be accessible? Leave us a comment and we'll do our best!

We have kittens coming out our ears! Do you want to have a little kitten cuteness in your life? Sign up for a volunteer spot in the cat palace - we really need volunteers to help ensure the cats and dogs are properly exercised and socialized every day. We're also looking for volunteers for our next dog wash, which will take place on July 27th. Sign up for both opportunities through the volunteer website.

Now, onto the post!

Last week we talked about the fun ways you can incorporate your pet into your vacation. It takes a bit more planning and some basic preparations, but it's great to share those memories with your pet. But what if you just can't take the time - or spend the money - for a grand family vacation this year? A staycation, where you take advantage of local activities instead of heading for a distant tourist spot, might be just what you need.

Staycationing can easily include your pet with much less hassle, expense, and stress than a traditional vacation, since you can keep up your pet's normal schedule and return to a familiar place each night. Below are a few tips to help you staycation, Greenville style.

Buttercup is looking for summer fun in a forever home!

Take a Walk
Lace up those tennis shoes and hit the trail! Your dog will love the new smells, and you'll love the feeling of being outside, getting some exercise, and exploring your own backyard. It's easy to find a trail to suit any fitness level, from a leisurely stroll around Town Common, to a one-mile loop in Alice F. Keene Park, to a longer walk in River Park North. For a complete list of trails in Pitt County, click here.

Get Back to Nature
If you're slightly more adventurous, consider taking your staycation to the next level by checking out a nearby state park. Goose Creek is the closest to Greenville, but there are several other parks within an easy drive, including Cliffs of the Neuse and Medoc Mountain. Hiking, swimming, camping, and picnicking are always better with a fuzzy friend to share the trail. For more information about North Carolina State Parks, consult their website. Read carefully to learn which areas and activities allow dogs.

Safety Tip: Be careful about exercising your dog during the heat of the day. Make sure they always have access to water, and watch for signs of over-exertion, especially if they are usually couch potatoes.

Make Some Friends
Sometimes you just have to get out there and sniff a few butts. Well - your dog does, anyway. Dog parks can be great places for your dog to meet some new buddies and blow off a little steam. Check out the Greenville dog park, just half a mile down from Town Common.

Ok, but what about meeting other human dog-lovers? What about organizing a dog-walking group, or a socialization or training club with some of those new friends you're making at the dog park? meetup.com is a good place to find like-minded people, but there aren't any Greenville groups for pets and animals - yet. Maybe you're the one to get the ball rolling!

Safety Tip: Be aware of how your dog reacts to unfamiliar dogs. Always be alert and ready to intervene if a disagreement begins. For some dogs, the dog park is simply not a safe option.

HSEC alum Lemon checks out the patio at Peasant's Pub

Grab some Good Eats
North Carolina law prohibits dogs from entering restaurants. And that's probably a good thing. But, dogs are allowed in outside areas, as long as it's permitted by the individual restaurant. Scope out restaurants with outside dining, like Sup Dogs or Peasant's Pub, both of which allow dogs on their outdoor patios. For dessert, hop on over to Loreta's Frozen Yogurt, which even has special doggie fro-yo. Or consider an eatery like Sonic where you can eat in your vehicle. Just be sure to call a restaurant first before bringing your pet to make sure that they are dog-friendly.

Hit the Road
Expand your staycation horizons just a tad and consider a day trip! Check out dog parks in Raleigh, or find a dog friendly beach (the closest to Greenville is Atlantic Beach). Take on part (or all!) of the Mountains to Sea Trail that runs a thousand miles across the state from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks. The best part? You'll still be home for dinner.

Safety tip: Don't push too far or expect too much from your pet.

With these guidelines, we know you'll have some great adventures this summer staycationing with your buddy. Do you know of any other great local pet-friendly businesses, or have other ideas for fun things to do with your pets? Let us know in the comments!

Jammin With Judd: Holiday Edition

Judd is an adorable three-year old white and tabby fellow who’s hanging out at the Humane Society looking for a home.  He tells us he will blog every week until he gets adopted.  He really wants a place of his own! Follow Judd's adventures - and share your own experiences with him - on Twitter, #jamminwithjudd

I understand that this week is a time when humans like to set off fireworks.  Well, I would like to be your firework!  Although having booms and lights in the sky seems a bit strange to me, I am willing to do my best.

Being a shelter cat does get a bit monotonous, you know.  I am ready to bust out of here, just my own personal Independence Day.  The problem is that I’m not really an independent kind of guy.  I figure I need humans for several very important things, like food, water, toys, playing, treats, and most of all, love!  Yes, I am a very committed love bug, with a special fondness for petting  and laps!  So while I want to be independent of the cage thing, I can’t imagine life without people!

I’m hoping that my time is coming.  What are you doing this weekend, now that the holiday is over?  I’m still hanging out at the Humane Society, and I’m wondering if you’re the one to help me explode in a stunning display of kitty joy?  We can be one another’s fireworks…any time you’re ready!

Pack up Your Paws Part 2: How to Get There

Welcome to summer reruns! This was originally posted in July 2012. We'll be back with new content - an update from Judd - tomorrow! This is Part 2 of our two-part post on vacationing with your pets. You can read Part 1 here.

Now that your planning is done, you can look forward to the vacation itself. And you know how they say that "getting there is half the fun"? Well, that's true of traveling with pets - as long as you're prepared. Otherwise, traveling can be stressful for you and for them. Having a fun vacation with your pet will start with safe traveling.


Each airline has their own rules when it comes to traveling pets. Small dogs and cats are usually able to travel with you in the cabin, if their carrier can safely be placed under the seat in front of you. Some airlines may require you to purchase an extra seat for your pet, or you may prefer to do this for your (and your pet's) comfort. For larger dogs that will have to travel in cargo, buy a sturdy, airline approved cargo crate with a good latch on the door.

Your pilot has turned on the no-walkies sign...

When traveling by plane it is important to think of anything that could happen. Tape a recent picture to your pet’s carrier, and keep one with you as well; it’ll be a lot easier for everyone to identify your four-legged friend, especially if something were to happen during travel. Feed your dog or cat 3-5 hours before you travel. Freeze a bowl of water to keep in their travel crate so it won’t spill during loading, but will melt by the time s/he is thirsty. You can also tape a small pouch of dried food outside of the crate so airline personnel will be able to feed your pet during longer flights or a layover. If possible, book a direct flight. If you don’t want your pet treated like “luggage” think of booking them their own flight via Pet Airways (http://www.petairways.com/).

When traveling by car, the main thing to remember is to keep your pet secure. Dogs are easier to travel with in general, but more so when driving. Most dogs will be excited to join you for a ride, just make sure they are either fitted for a dog-friendly seat belt or a travel harness; crates are an option as well, provided you have the room. Do not allow your pet to roam freely in the car, and do not let them sit on your lap - especially if you are driving. Unless they are exceptionally calm and seasoned travelers, cats should be crated. Cats like to hide in new places, and may choose to stuff themselves under the brake pedal or try and make a break for an open door.

A harness keeps you and your buddy safe on the road and is stylish to boot

For those dogs that may be a bit more timid about being your backseat buddy, start slow. Get your pup used to being the car without it running first; feed them a meal in the backseat and reward them for being calm. Start with short 10-15 minute trips and then gradually increase the distance you drive. Don’t just take your dog to the vet or the groomers in the car, as that could make them associate being in the car with a bad experience. Have your end destination be part of the reward during training; take a drive to a local dog park, or pet friendly store/restaurant. For those nonstop barking travel dogs, stuff a toy with treats and they’ll be too busy to bark.

Some dogs and cats get carsick, just like us! It's generally best for them to travel with an empty stomach, although some may do better with a small meal before you go. Experiment to see what's best for your pet, and never deny them water. Nausea may be relieved if the pet can see the surrounding scenery. Your vet may also prescribe anti-nausea medication as a last resort.

You will need to make pit stops for your dog about every two hours, so that they can stretch and empty their bladders. Cats can be expected to make it about six hours without a toilet. This should be calculated into your travel plans. A certain loss of spontaneity is to be expected when traveling with pets. Plan ahead to make sure that your hotel or lodging is pet friendly, and be a good customer - don't sneak pets into places where they are not allowed.

Margaritas on the deck at sunset... you're buying.

Now that you're at your destination, include your pet in your plans. Ask about local dog parks and dog-friendly cafes. Be patient with your baby if they are nervous or stressed out, and try to avoid leaving them alone in your hotel for an extended period of time (even if crated). In no time at all, your pet should be relaxing right alongside you.

No matter where you go or how you get there, keep your pet’s health and well being in the front of your mind. Don’t wait to buy food until you arrive, because your pet’s favorite may not be available. When packing, bring along some comforts of home, such as a favorite toy or blanket. Maintain your normal routine as much as possible; feeding times and play times shouldn’t alter too much while on vacation. Train, don’t drug, your pet into being a good traveler and you’re sure to have a great time!

Pack up Your Paws Pt. 1: Planning a vacation with pets

Welcome to summer re-runs! Today, we'll take a look at how to plan a vacation with your pet. This post originally went up on June 29, 2012. We'll be back with fresh new content on Monday - Happy 4th of July!

Vacations are always much more fun with your best friend. Just because your best friend has four legs, doesn’t mean s/he should be left at home. It is becoming more and more popular for pets to tag along on vacations. With just a bit of research and planning ahead, you and your pet can share the vacation memories together.


If you're traveling this week for the 4th of July, remember that more pets are lost on the 4th than any other day during the year. Make plans for your pets to be safely and securely contained, particularly during the firework displays.

Before you travel anywhere, stop in the veterinarian’s office for a general check-up and to obtain a health certificate dated within 10 days of departure. Make sure you bring along vaccination records, your pet’s medical history, and any medication they will need. On your pet’s collar you should include an ID tag with your name and contact information, as well as your vacation destination. Microchipping your pet would also be very wise. You can read our post on microchipping here.

Traveling can be stressful enough for your pet, so crate train before you leave home. Most likely, at some point during your vacation you’ll need to keep your pet in a crate of some sort, whether that is during travel or once you reach your destination. Pet-friendly hotels may require your pet to be crated at night or anytime left alone in the room. Make it comfortable with blankets or towels on the bottom, and some familiarities of home, such as a favorite toy.

Think about your budget. Traveling with a pet will often save you money by foregoing expensive pet boarding and kennel fees, but don’t think it will be cheap. Airlines and hotels won’t accommodate your pet for free; there’s always a pet fee of some sort.

When planning your vacation, make sure all of your activities include your pet as well. What is the point in bringing them along if they’re just going to be left behind anyway? If you find yourself wanting to spend a pet-free day, find a local pet spa/day care, pet hotel/kennel, or some way to keep your pet safe and entertained during the day. If you’re staying at a pet-friendly location they should have information on local pet-friendly activities.

The planning process is when you should also take some time to consider if your pet will benefit from traveling with you. Many pets love heading out on the road, while others can be very stressed from the change (cats in particular). Know your pet and their limits - and if you are confident that everyone will have a good time, go have some fun!

This is the first of our two-part post on traveling with your pets. Stay tuned for Part 2 on Friday!

For more information about pet-friendly travel tips and destinations check out these links:

Pet Hotels of America (http://www.pethotelsofamerica.com/)

Bring Fido (http://www.bringfido.com/)

Dog Friendly (http://www.dogfriendly.com/)

Pet Vacation Homes (http://www.petvacationhomes.com/)   

Dog Days of Summer

Welcome to summer reruns! All this week we will be taking another look at a few summer-themed favorites, so take a second look at great information you may have missed the first time around. This post originally debuted on August 10th, 2012. 

It’s the dog days of summer, and that means it’s hot, hot, hot outside! As you’re heading to the beach or sitting in the park or running those back-to-school errands, take some time to observe your pet’s behavior and ensure that they’re as comfortable as possible.

Cats and dogs don’t sweat, and may have a difficult time cooling off, particularly in humid conditions like right here in Eastern NC. Although both dogs and cats pant to keep cool, this may not always be enough to prevent heatstroke. All animals can get heatstroke, and more susceptible pets include those with short snouts, long-haired breeds, the very old or very young, the chronically ill, and the overweight. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, anxiety, lethargy, weakness, dizziness, thick saliva, vomiting, and diarrhea, and can eventually proceed to shock, coma, and death.

But don’t fear! With a little awareness, you can avoid heat distress.

• Try to schedule outside time during the cooler morning and evening hours.
• Find a shady spot to rest, and take frequent breaks. Make sure outdoor cats have a cool place to hide from the sun.
• Keep cool, fresh water available. You can bring a small tupperware or collapsable container on hikes or to the beach to use as a bowl, and some dogs will drink from a water bottle.
• If you have a water-loving dog, fill a baby pool with enough water for them to splash around in.
• Be the leader - many dogs don’t know when to call it quits on playtime. When they exhibit signs of overheating, end the game.
• Keep your pets groomed and comb out their woolly winter undercoat (you know, the stuff in your carpets). Some dogs may benefit from a complete shave, but check with a professional groomer first. For some breeds, the long overcoat helps to keep them cool and removal may be stressful to the dog. Full shaves for cats are not generally recommended. Not only does their dignity forbid it, but the overcoat helps them maintain their body temperature.
• During the summer, never leave your dog in a parked car for any length of time. Even with the air on it’s not a good idea.

If your pet appears to have heatstroke, remove them from the heat and place them in a cool, comfortable area, preferably indoors. Their temperature must be gradually brought down or they can go into shock. Wet them with lukewarm (NOT ice cold) water, gradually switching to cooler water as their temperature decreases, and increase air circulation if possible to help them cool down. Finally, if the pet is really in distress, seek medical attention. Cooling methods can be employed on the way to the vet.

Also consider the effect of the sun on your pet’s skin and feet. Dogs and cats get sunburned just like we do, and also just like us, can develop skin cancer. For light colored animals, hairless breeds, and those without dark pigmentation around their eyes, apply sunscreen to sensitive areas, particularly the tips of the ears, the nose, and under the eyes. Indoor cats can also get burned through the windows, so be mindful of this if your kitty spends a lot of time in that favorite sunbeam. Check your cat’s ears for inflammation, flaking, tenderness, or mild hair loss. It’s also important to use a pet-specific brand for cats in particular, as the ingredients in sunscreen can be toxic if ingested.

For those tootsies, be sure to consider the temperature of the ground, especially dark pavement, metal, and sand. We think of a dog’s footpads as thick and tough, but they do get burned. Walking in the early morning or evening helps ensure cool pavement, and walking on grass is a great way to beat the heat. You can’t always tell with the naked eye if the pad is burnt, so keep these symptoms in mind:

• Limping or refusing to walk
• Licking or chewing at the bottom of the feet (which could also be allergies)
• Dark pads, red pads, blisters, or a missing portion of a pad

If you suspect your pet has burned pads, get them off the hot surface and indoors, flush the area with cool water, and keep them from licking the pads. Your vet might recommend an antibiotic treatment, as these injuries can become infected. If you need to walk your dog in the middle of the day over asphalt or sand, consider doggie booties to protect their feet, or carry a towel with you that they can stand on if necessary.

With a little bit of planning and care, you can enjoy the dog days with your companion beside you. So get out there, and have fun in the sun!

Jammin With Judd: Forever Home Checklist

My good side

Judd is an adorable three-year old white and tabby fellow who’s hanging out at the Humane Society looking for a home.  He tells us he will blog every week until he gets adopted.  He really wants a place of his own! Follow Judd's adventures - and share your own experiences with him - on Twitter, #jamminwithjudd

Hello!  This is Judd again, hoping to blog my way into someone’s heart and home!  Since last week, I’ve been doing a lot of thinking a lot about this adoption thing, and I decided to make a list of what I’m looking for so you’ll know if we are meant for one another.

1. People.  If you are reading this, you probably are one.  But just to let you know, I would not like a home without people.  I am a people kind of guy, and really want to be around them as much as I can. 
2. Treats.  I just love treats, and will do just about anything to get one!  I especially go crazy for the soft, chewy ones, but I’ll come running when I hear the package rattling or the bottle shaking.  If you don’t have treats in your house, don’t worry.  I’ve checked around and found out that they have them in grocery stores, marts, and pet stores, so you can get me some right away.
3. Laps.  I’m pretty sure they come standard on humans, but I am such a lap cat that I thought I

   

   I like windows. Does your house have windows?

   should mention it.  If you don’t happen to have a lap, we might have a problem, but if you do we will be fine.
4.  A floor.  Again, I think just about all houses have floors, but I do like floor sprawling, so if you have any kind of floor that’s big enough for a fellow to stretch out on, I think I will like your house.
5. A window.  They are fun to look out.  Here at the Humane Society, I like to watch the humans walking dogs.  That seems like a lot of trouble to me – you won’t need to walk me at all.  Another reason to adopt a cat.
6. Cats.  OK, this one’s optional.  But I do like other cats.  I like to explore the Cat Palace with my buddy Salem (also available for adoption – hint, hint!), and would be very happy to have a family with a mixture of furry and furless members.  But just humans would be fine, too - as long as you have humans.

I think this would be a good checklist to use to see if you would be the ideal home for me.  If you are, I’ll be at waiting for you at the Humane Society.  They’re open Friday, Saturday and Sunday – so what are you waiting for?

We're Having Kittens!!

Just one of our babies! Click here for more HSEC kitten photos!

It's kitten season, and like many animal rescue organizations all over the country, we have been inundated by tiny, fuzzy babies!

In order to keep up with this blessed (and yearly) event, we turn to you, our supporters, with our kitten registry. We'd love your help in "showering" HSEC with items necessary for proper kitten care.

• Canned kitten food is our #1 need!
• Little legs need little litterboxes - small, shallow litter pans allow for easy entrance and exit.
• Stretch and scratchers are great for all our feline residents, allowing for cats to express their natural need to scratch.
• Kitten receiving blankets? Sure! Kittens need extra warmth just like any newborn, and blankets allow us to create a soft, snuggly nest.
• Some kittens love to snuggle up with small stuffed animals.
• Toys, toys, toys! We especially would like wand toys and ball chasing toys (like this)

Check out our Amazon kitten registry here!

How to Give a Dog a Pill

Welcome to our 200th post!! Today we'll take a look at what can be a very stressful part of pet ownership... getting your dog to take their medicine. At the Humane Society of Eastern Carolina, we have become medication administration experts.  Here are our tips to taking the stress out of giving meds.

Go undercover!

Hide the pill in anything and everything.

Pill Pockets:
When we have them donated, Pill Pockets are the easiest and fastest way to give meds.  Pill Pockets are soft, smelly, pliable treats with a hole in the middle.  You just stick the tablet in the middle, close the Pill Pocket around the tablet, and feed it to your dog as a treat.

Peanut Butter:
Peanut butter is our second line of defense.  We take a spoonful of peanut butter, preferably crunchy, smush the tablet in the peanut butter, and then let the dog lick the peanut butter off the spoon.  You can also transfer the peanut butter to your finger if the tablet gets trapped in the well of the spoon.

Make a “meatball”:
Form a meatball made from wet dog food, stuff the tablet into the middle and voila!  You have a medicated meatball sure to be scarfed down.

Hot dogs:
Slice a fully cooked hot dog into ½” thick slices, push the tablet into the middle of the slice and feed it to your dog.

Other suggestions:
Our staff has found other undercover solutions for their foster dogs and/or dogs at home, including:

• Hiding a pill in store bought cheese cubes
• Hiding a pill in fig newtons
• Making tiny peanut butter, cream cheese, mashed banana, butter, or combination thereof sandwiches with bread or crackers.

Tip: Go undercover before meal time for best results

Third time’s a charm

Does your dog get suspicious any time you give him an undercover treat?  Try this technique!

Have three of whatever type of undercover treats.  Let’s say you have cheese cubes.  Take out three cheese cubes, putting the medicine in the third one.  Feed your dog the one cheese cube.  He might search it, and then eat it, satisfied nothing is hidden in there.  Then give him the second cheese cube.  Now he’s starting to trust you.  Give him the third (and medicated) cheese cube.  He’ll be so excited with the game of getting lots of treats, he won’t even notice there’s a pill in there.  This is particularly effective with dogs who like to catch treats in the air. 

Fedicate

Does your dog lick her bowl clean?  Take advantage of her joy for meal time and add her medicine to the bowl.

You can use any of the “undercover” methods and simply add the hot dog slice, meatball, etc to her food bowl.

Another great tip is to mix wet dog food (one with gravy works best) or broth to the dog’s kibble, drop the pill in, mix all around and watch your dog happily lick their bowl clean.  If adding broth to the food bowl, warming the broth slightly will make it smell even more enticing.

*Be sure to watch your dog while fedicating to be sure the dog actually eats and swallows the pill.

And if all else fails…

It’s time to roll up your sleeves and “pill” your dog.  Here’s a video demonstrating how to “pill” a dog:



What tips do you have for giving dogs medication?

Jammin' With Judd

Meow! I'm Judd! Word travels fast here at the Humane Society, and I heard that a dog named Clooney started blogging to get himself adopted.  So I figure I’ll give it a try!

I really don’t know what a nice guy like me is doing in a place like this.  Don’t get me wrong, the people here are nice to me, but a cage?  Really?  At least it’s better than the scary place I was before, a shelter where not everycat was adopted, if you know what I mean – I shudder to think what could have happened to me!  But here, I believe them when they say I’m safe until I can find some humans who will be my forever family.

So here’s the deal.  I really am a nice guy, honest!  I get along well with others of the feline persuasion, and wouldn’t mind living with one or two if they’re cool with me.  And humans!  Don’t get me started on how much I love a good lap!  Laps just bring out the cuddler in me, and I definitely hope to find a home that has lots of lap time!  Oh, yes!  And head boinks and rubbing are lots of fun, too.  I just think humans were wonderfully designed for cat cuddling, don’t you?

Yes, I’m a lover, but I do admit I like my playtime, too.  I may not bend it like Beckham, but I am quite the skilled kitty soccer player.  Little toy mice are my favorite, too.  I’m glad they’re just toys, because I love to attack them!  Grrr…what fun!  I also love to perch myself up high in the play area, and pretend I’m the kitty king of the world! 

OK, since I’m being honest, I must admit that even a big guy like me gets a bit nervous sometimes, you know?  After all I’ve been through, I get spooked by loud noises or new things sometimes, and will even hide under a blanket in my cage where I feel safe.  That’s why I’m so excited about finding a human or maybe an entire family of humans to call my own, with a place of my own – my little corner of the world where I can feel safe and loved!

And that’s why I started this blog.  I’m sure there’s someone out there with a lap and some extra love who has room for me.  If it’s not you, I’ll bet you have some human pals you could pass this along to.  Ask them to come to the Humane Society – the place on Tupper Road – and ask for Judd.  I’ll be waiting!

Follow Judd's adventures via HSEC's Twitter stream! And if you happen to hang out with Judd while volunteering at the facility, send us a tweet or a pic - #jamminwithjudd

Help Us Empty the Shelter!

Pitt County’s dogs need some new best friends.

Pet homelessness is a significant problem in our area, and the need for permanent homes far exceeds

Boss is a recent transfer from PCAS

the supply even when the system is working smoothly.  But recent developments have raised the red flag for stray and unwanted dogs.

A recent inspection of the Pitt County Animal Shelter by the NC Department of Animal Welfare identified issues that must be remedied in order for the Shelter to remain open.  As a result, an older portion of the shelter has been closed for repairs and renovation, dropping the number of available dog runs from 25 to 10.

In partnership with the County Shelter, we’ve long played a key role in preventing the euthanasia of adoptable animals.  The majority of our animals are transferred in from the Shelter; once in our care, those animals are safe with us until they find loving homes.

Sweet Sparrow is another PCAS transfer

In this time of crisis, we’ve been working closely with the Shelter, saving lives by taking in as many animals as we possibly can.  But now we’ve reached our limit as well.

That’s where you come in.  During this time of limited capacity, the need for both foster and permanent homes has reached a critical point.  By freeing a kennel, you’re saving two lives – the dog you’re fostering or adopting, and the dog in need who’s next in line to be rescued.

Boss and Sparrow are only two of our recent arrivals from the County Shelter.  Boss is a two year-old Bloodhound/Retriever mix who’s playful, goofy, intelligent and good with cats, and one year-old Sparrow is a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog mix who’s sweet and friendly.  Both are grateful to be safe at the Humane Society, and are waiting patiently for their forever homes.

If you’ve been thinking of adopting, or can open your home to foster an animal, check out our website for a listing of available pets, or stop by to visit on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays 2-5 p.m.  If you’re interested in fostering, send us an email. 

There’s no time like the present.  Your new best friend awaits!

Fee Waived Adoptions - Three for Free!

During our birthday celebration last month we introduced you to six lovely and loving dogs and cats, so ready to find homes that we waived their adoption fees. We're just plain tickled to announce that five of those original six have found their forever homes! Congratulations to Blue, Max, Precious, Clooney, and Tess!

With two additions to the fee-waived list, we now have Three for Free - three wonderful dogs with waived adoption fees who can't wait to come home with you - or you - or maybe YOU! Let's meet them!

Hector

Hector the shepherd mix is one of the original six, so he's extra ready to find his forever home! We just love Hector's mischievous smile. This guy is everything a dog should be, friendly, cuddly, and happy-go-lucky. He's quite energetic, and gets along very well with other dogs (though it is not recommended for him to go to a home with cats). Hector is heartworm positive, and takes medication for this condition. Heartworm is very treatable, so don't let that dissuade you if you think that Happy Hector might be the perfect new addition to your pack.

Scout

Scout is a sweet, shy, Carolina dog mix who arrived at HSEC after her owner moved to a pet-free apartment. At first this cute little girl was nervous and wary, but she's starting to come out of her shell in order to accept head scratches! She gets along with other dogs, and she's looking for a home that is a bit more quiet and a bit more patient. With some extra care and attention, we know that Scout will be someone's best friend for life.

Midas

Midas the labrador retriever mix proves that cats aren't the only ones with nine lives! Healthy young Midas was brought in for a "convenience euthanasia" because his owner didn't want to care for him any longer. Luckily, the vet called us! This young dog is energetic and playful and gets along well with humans or canines. He is house and crate trained and knows a few commands. He's ready for his second chance - ready for his forever home!



All dogs with the Humane Society of Eastern Carolina are evaluated for temperament, spayed/neutered, up to date on vaccines, dewormed, on heartworm and flea prevention and tested for heartworms if one year or older. Their adoption comes with a bag of Hill's Science Diet and one month free trial of pet health insurance from ShelterCare. All dogs four months or older must leave with a collar with their rabies tag as a form of identification. You can either bring your own collar or purchase a collar (priced $2-$10) from HSEC.

We are open Friday, Saturday and Sunday 2pm - 5pm.  For more information, please email us at HSECgeneral@gmail.com!

Clooney's Commentary: Clooney Cooney

Clooney’s Commentary is written by a dog who has been a year-long resident of the Humane Society.  He decided to take matters into his own paws and get himself adopted.  This five year-old Shepherd mix recently moved to a foster home, and has been sending updates while waiting for his forever home!

Hey, it’s your favorite commentator, Clooney!  Here I am, grinning from ear to ear with doggie delight.  I found out that some things were just meant to be!  You’ll never guess what happened…

But let me start at the beginning.  A little more than a year ago, a very nice lady started volunteering at the Humane Society.  I could tell she liked me, and I liked her too.  She liked to take me on walks, which just happens to be one of my favorite things, too.  Last fall, she even took me to the pumpkin patch.  The smells there were just glorious!

Time went on and on for me, and I was beginning to give up on ever finding a home of my own!  But this kind lady kept me cheered up, and I always looked forward to her visits.  Then, a few weeks ago, something exciting happened – I got adopted by a young fellow!  He was very nice, and I hoped that we would have a good life together, but after just a few days he decided he didn’t have time for me, and returned me to the Humane Society.  I was very sad and discouraged, and started to think that I would never find my forever home.

The nice lady volunteer entered my life again, taking me for walks and telling me what a good boy I am.  It was great to hear – but even better, she agreed to be my foster mom and let me live with her while I waited for a place of my own. 

I quickly discovered that I just loved living with her!  Although I am not a petite pup, I like to sleep in bed with her, and get so comfy that my foster mom has to wake me up to go for a morning jog.  Oh, and I have actually lost some of my extra puppy pounds from all the walking and jogging.  I adore humans, and I must say her neighbors are fine specimens.  I always like saying hello to them.

While I was busy writing blogs and trying to find myself a forever home, something wonderful happened – my foster mom decided that she just couldn’t  live without me, and wanted to be my honest-to-goodness mom, so SHE ADOPTED ME!

I told you that some things are meant to be, and this is sure one of them!  She was there to spend time with me when I was all alone at the Humane Society, and took me home when I was sad from being returned and needed a friend.  But there’s something else that convinces me that we were meant to be together all along.  Upon being adopted, I got my new mom’s last name.  Yep, I’m now officially Clooney Cooney!




There are many animals just like Clooney still waiting for loving homes of their own.  Please consider adopting, volunteering, or donating to the Humane Society of Eastern Carolina.  You can make a difference for a wonderful pup like Clooney!