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Autumn-time Greetings!
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Cora, Kira, Ben and Yelda, our 4 resident newfs welcome you to our very own website! Country Lane is a place where any newf is sure to find a safe haven at Sadie Mae & Sailor's home for wayward newfs!
You will meet them soon; they each have their very own page here at Country Lane. Along with Cora & Kira, there are the newfs we foster for Newfoundland Rescue and you will meet each of the newfs we've fostered in these pages.
The past few years have been very busy year at Country Lane. We have fostered a total of 12 Newfs since January, 2003. Yelda is currently staying with us and hopefully, we'll find forever homes for them very soon! In the meantime, they are safe and sound here at Country Lane.
Please enjoy your stay... we hope you find it cozy. And please, as you lie in bed tonight, safe and sound, say a prayer for all the dogs and cats out in the world, who aren't safe, and are in need of rescue. Let's hope they find their way to safety soon....
Autumn is finally here. Finally, the days are growing cooler. It's been a hot, dry summer here at Country Lane. Newfoundlands do not like the heat, so they've been spending most of their time near the closest A/C vent or fan! They are very glad that winter is around the corner, because they love snow. Of course, the humans at Country Lane don't mind a little snow. After a fresh snow fall it is virtually impossible to convince them to come back inside. It's almost as if they are at an "All You Can Eat" snow cone buffet! However, we can certainly do with out the ice.. and the newfs really don't like ice either.
Squirrels are actively gathering nuts, which are falling from the trees. This makes walking around the yard hazardous for humans, but very exciting for our Newfie crew. Kira, Ben and Yelda are inclined to investigate everything. Cora is only interested if there's the possibility of getting a treat!
Dont you just love this time of year? I do, and I love Halloween! Its one of my favorite holidays. However, the sad fact is that Halloween is not always a happy time for our pets. There are many aspects of Halloween that, while enjoyed by humans, are perilous to our pets. So, every year, I post on my website, and now on this blog about how to keep all pets safe so that they too, can have a happy Halloween. Much of the information here has been compiled from a variety of websites. Some are no longer online, but I did find this excellent site that has many of the tips posted here:
Halloween Safety for Pets
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It is a bad idea to leave pets outside on beggars night. It would also be a very good idea to closely supervise pets when theyre outside a few days before and after Halloween. Kids can be cruel and the sad reality is that there are there are documented cases where people steal pets during this time for a variety of cruel, malicious and despicable purposes. People with black cats should pay close attention to their cat during this time of year.
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Also, in regards to Black Cats, if you work in a pet store, remember that this is the time of year that can be deadly for black cats. Some sick people who play at being what they'll call a Satanist will buy them to "sacrifice" If you can, don't take any black cats or sell them during October.
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Do not allow your pets to eat any Halloween candy. Chocolate is toxic to many animals. The wrappers, such as tin foil, can get stuck in your pets digestive tract and make them ill or cause death. If you wish to give your pets treats on Halloween, there are plenty of recipes for making home made dog and cat treats. If you want to pass them out on beggars night, you should list the ingredients on the bag, in case any pets receiving your treats have allergies!
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If you are going to dress your pet in a costume, keep in mind that unless the dog or cat is extremely receptive to this kind of thing, you could be causing it discomfort and stress. Some animals don't mind at all but others do not want to be bothered with this kind of thing. They'll be under enough stress with the festivities going on outside and people at the door constantly so don't cause them any more nervousness then you have to. You may love to dress in costume but then, you aren't a dog or a cat. Masks are not a good idea. Some pets will where them, and if your pet is one that will, be sure that make sure that the eye holes are big enough for them to see peripherally. Animals depend on their vision to let them know what's going on and even the nicest dog can get snippy if he can't see what's around him. But please think twice before subjecting your pets to this, and remove the mask at the very first sign of discomfort or distress.
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If you are having a indoor party, make sure that you put your dog or cat in a room where they won't be disturbed. Unless your pet is ultra friendly and doesn't mind loud noises, music and lots of people you should keep them separate for the night. Also, be careful your cat or dog doesn't dart out through the open door as you hand out candy. Best bet is to just put them in a room with some food and water for the night and check on them once in a while to let them know everything is fine.
As a safety precaution, have current pictures of your pets in case they do get lost. Have your Veterinarians phone number handy, as well as the number of any emergency vet clinics. Phone numbers to local animal shelters and similar humane organizations should be easily accessible should your pet become lost. And, should your pet eat something that may be toxic, the number for the Animal Poison Control Center is: (888) 426-4435. There is a consulting fee, but in an emergency, and speaking from personal experience, its well worth it.
I wish all of you a safe and happy Halloween. If theres something else that Ive missed and should be added to this list, please leave it in the comment field, and Ill happily edit, being careful to give credit to you!
Winter and the holidays can be hazardous to pets. Please visit the following pages for safety tips:
Protect Your Pets from Winter's Woes
Holiday Safety Tips for Pets
Visit us often! Things are always changing at Country Lane! And, before you leave, please be sure to sign our guest book. You can access it by clicking it's link, which is on the navigation bar up on the left side near the top of this page, or, by clicking the link below:
Country Lane Guestbook
You can also visit Cora, Kira, Ben and Yelda at Dogster:
Cora's Dogster Page
Kira's Dogster Page
Ben's Dogster Page
Yelda's Dogster Page
And, they often post on my blog
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Recent Happenings at Country Lane
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September 8, 2005:
It is with immense sorrow and despair that I must share the sad news that we helped our Sailor man cross the bridge last night. He went down in the rear a few weeks ago. He was 8 years old and unfortunately not a candidate for surgery. He couldn't walk without our help and a sling. At first, medications seemed to help and we were looking into alternative treatments. However, in the past few days, he deteriorated so rapidly.... he lost ground every day... and was suffering. It became apparent yesterday morning that the only kind thing to do would be to set him free. He was the epitome of a newf... a true gentle giant, and we were blessed to share our world with him. Our hearts hurt so much... but knowing that he's safe and free from pain is a comfort... and I do believe that someday, we shall meet again...
December, 2005:
Our Newfs participated in a gift exchange with other dogs from Newf Net.
Here is a link to some pictures I took of them opening their gifts!
From winters' past:
It's been Cold Cold Cold! We've had major snowfalls so far this winter
Here is a link to some recent photographs:
December, 2004:
We attended SCNC's 2nd Annual Tree Pull.
Sailor and I handled meeting and greeting the public. Kira, under Russell's guidance pulled Christmas Trees! Here is a link to some photographs from the event:
SCNC's 2nd Annual Christmas Tree Pull
November, 2004:
Sailor made his theatrical debut.
He starred as "Nana" in a local production of "Peter Pan".
Cora was his understudy.
Here is a link to some photographs from the event:
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Are you interested in a Newfoundland Dog?
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Since you've found you way to my website, I'm guessing you are interested in Newfoundland Dogs. If you're contemplating on getting one, and are looking for a breeder, you will not find any recommendations or endorsements for breeders on this website.
There are other places to find those.
However, I would like to share with you my list of criteria that I would use to determine what makes a good and responsible breeder of Newfoundland Dogs:
* When breeding, does the breeder breed according to The Newfoundland Breed Standard?
* Does this breeder have their puppies cleared by a Board Certified Cardiologist... and preferably "Dopplered"?
* Does this breeder do health clearances for Hips, Elbows, Cystinuria?
* Are all clearances posted on the OFA Website?
* Is he/she a member of the Newfoundland Club of America?
* Is he/she a member of any regional Newfoundland Clubs?
* Does he/she show her Newfoundlands in conformation, and do the Dam & Sire have their championship? Or, do they at least have points towards their championship?
* Does this breeder participate in working dog events? Specifically, Draft and/or Water Tests?
* Do they show their dog in Obedience?
* Do they require new puppy owners to enroll their puppys in obedience classes?
* Do they have a contract... and if they do, will they take the dog back for whatever reason? (I know this seems unlikely at this point, but sometimes things happen and people are unable to keep the dog.)
* Have they asked you for references? (This sounds strange, because you're the customer, right? However, a breeder who truly cares about where their puppies go will often make people practically jump through hoops to convince him/her that they are worthy of a Newf.)
* Does this breeder require you to spay or neuter your puppy if it's not a show puppy?
* How old will the puppies be when the breeder sends them to their new homes? (anything under 10 weeks is a major red flag)
* Does the breeder require new puppy owners to check in on a regular basis... and is the breeder good about returning phone calls?
and last, but not least
* Do you like this person... I mean really like this person? Is this person someone that you are comfortable with, and will be able to consider them as an extended member of your family for the duration of your puppy's life, and even longer? If this answer is no... then don't get a puppy from them.
As I've said before... these are my personal preferences. There are many good and wonderful breeders out there. The sad reality is that there are even more bad breeders out there.
The Newfoundland Dog is a multi-faceted breed. It is my belief that it is essential that breeders focus on all facets, and not just one or two.
The future of the breed depends on it.
From the NCA Website:
"A Newf is a very gentle dog that will be deeply attached to its family. It MUST be kept inside your house and be part of that family. It needs training and that will require time on your part. Finally many Newfs have health problems and the veterinary cost of an unhealthy Newf can easily run to $5,000. You should have a written contract and health clearances are exceptionally important. Be sure to ask your breeder what clearances and testing they do. Please check the regional clubs and rescue contacts BEFORE you buy a Newf. They will help you."
Regional Clubs
Rescue Contacts
The NCA Website has some excellent and worthwhile educational materials on the Newfoundland Dog. Here are some links:
The Newf & You
The Illustrated Guide
NCA Puppy Buyer's Brochure
10 Reasons Not to Buy A Puppy From A Pet Store
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Friends at the Rainbow Bridge
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Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
Author unknown...
This space is reserved for dear friends who've are waiting for their loved ones at the Rainbow Bridge.
I've placed a burning candle here to honor their memory.
Our Newfs: Sadie, Neiko and Sailor
Susan's Newf: Ivory
Jeannie & Gary's Newf: Sara
Bonnie's Newf (Cora's Father): Summit
Susan W.'s Newfs: Drake & Dante
Virginia & Kelly's Newf: Zeke
Leslie & Mike's Newf: Makwa
Greg & Colleen's Newfs: Fezzik and Meesha
Jennifer & Neil's Newf: Zeus
Anne's Newf: Star
Christine's Newf: Haddie
Gary & Lauren's Newf: Cozy
A Newf named Kahn, who was stolen and used to train fighting Pit Bulls
Pat's Newf: Brady
Sandra's Lab Mix: Quentin
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A few nuts and bolts...
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We welcome any comments or questions.
Our email: cora_newf@yahoo.com
The number of visitors to Country Lane is currently
This page is lovingly dedicated in loving memory to our beloved newfs at the bridge:
Sadie Mae, Neiko and Sailor
This page was updated 10/10/2007
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