The Gabbs Dogs

Callie Update

2012-01-09T18:06:00.000-08:00

Some good news coming out of Gardnerville... Callie has been spotted by the golf course. She is currently avoiding the traps, but not the cameras. Such welcome news since she has been missing since 7/4/11.

Callie... hurry up and come home so we can celebrate "Gabbs" style. Sending good thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

Miss Zuma Update

2011-12-13T00:29:00.000-08:00

A note from Zuma's Mom:

Just thought I'd share...

Sent this in to The Bark's smiling dog contest

... Zuma had just dug her first big hole (which has become her daily routine during the hot months. she digs, lays in cool earth, we fill in, she digs again - always same spot...cute).

Zuma (no. 1 dog; originally named Pearl) is doing pretty well following a very scary August. She has an enlarged heart now, to go with her other ailments, but her 5 medications ROCK! She's spry and happy all the time.

Happy Holidays,
Dianne, Billy & Zuma

GREAT Smile Zuma!!

ELLIE is Missing

2011-11-09T17:39:00.001-08:00

Ellie very recently had finally gone to her forever home with Barb and John, near Coleville, CA. On a walk with her new parents, Ellie was spooked by gun shots and took off (with her leash on).

Current picture of Miss Ellie

Below is an e-mail from Ellie's parents. If you see her, please let them know.

"I have not eaten since Sunday, I am absolutely sick with worry. The last place my husband was able to see her was on the National Forest Developed Rd 120 Trail about a half mile east of Eastside Lane.

The road is just a quarter mile or so north of Topaz Lane on Eastside Lane in Coleville's Antelope Valley. We didn't realize there was an active shooting range near there. I have called Mono County, CA & Douglas County, NV Sheriff's Dept's & Animal Control.

John is going to go to Wellington to put out a couple of flyers out that way in case she headed northeast. If you hear anything please call us; Barb's cell is 530-448-0550 & John's is 530-906-5203."

Click here to see a google map of the area Ellie was last seen.

This is now two missing Gabbs dogs... Callie is still missing too. Please send prayers and warm thoughts to both families!!

Come Home Soon Ellie (and Callie)!!!

Updates Needed

2011-10-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it has been almost 4 years since the Gabbs Dogs were discovered?

With the first fall storm of 2011 in Northern Nevada here, we are wondering what all our Gabbs Dogs are up to?? Dinky says hello to all and hope to hears updates soon. She misses all her puppy pals. Some of you we haven't heard from in over two years...

Dinky with her brother Tyson and sister Angel, saying hello.

Before we signoff, here is an update on Callie: She has not yet been found, but... there have been reliable sightings. Our Gabbs Dogs are little desert survivors, we know she is taking care of herself out there. Let's just hope that with the first fall storm, she will want to come home. Still sending prayers to Callie and her family.

Sending great fall wishes to all our friends!!

GABBS

2011-10-05T08:46:00.001-07:00

Remember Gabbs? Below is a note (dated Spring 2011), from his new Mom.

"I certainly have all good things to say about my experience with Safe Haven.

After loosing my 14YO Lab mix in August 2010, I began an internet search for my next best friend. That is how I found Safe Haven and Gabbs.

Kris brought him to my home for us to meet and from there it evolved into a two week home visit. Well, I knew, then and there, once we agreed on the home visit, i was hooked. Gabbs is a wonderful, gentle, smart, lovable boy who is very shy. I thank Safe Haven and Kris for caring for him until we found each other. This is definitely a case of " which came first, the chicken or the egg." Did I rescue Gabbs, or did Gabbs rescue me; it's mutual.

Thank you Safe Haven for making all aspects of our rescue easy.

Gabbs and Holly"

Keep Up the Good Work, Gabbs!!

Missing Gabbs Dog

2011-07-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

Callie (formerly Kumquat) is missing. She got out on 7/4/11 and has not been seen since. She was last seen in the Ranchos area (by Gardnerville, NV). Callie is VERY SHY (and will not come to people)... if seen, please call Colleen ASAP (775-265-7957).

Callie is missed very much, so the more eye looking out for her the better!!

Come Home Safe Callie!!

Gabbs Dogs on Facebook

2011-03-12T09:01:00.000-08:00

The Gabbs Dogs are really beefing up the technology skills. We now also have a group on Facebook... WOOHOO!! If you helped out in the original rescue, helped at Camp Reno, fostered a Gabbs Dog (or tow or three) or gave a furever home to a Gabbs Dog, please join us on our Facebook group.

Click here to find our Facebook page.

But... don't forget to send you awesome stories here too. We love hearing from all of you.

Cheers to all our Gabbs friends!!

In Memory of Colin

2011-01-05T18:53:00.001-08:00

Sleep peaceful sweet boy. Dama has called you home.

Colin was rumored to be the oldest dog at the Gabbs ranch. He was thirteen when he was rescued three years ago. Colin had been in “foster care” with Colleen and her family since his rescue. Colin passed away last night. He was at home, surrounded by the people that loved him.

Colin’s story lives on in the Best Friends archives... click here.

We love you Colin.
You will be missed!

Miss WIND TALKER

2010-12-29T12:30:00.000-08:00

Windy the day she went to her new home.

Windy is truly an amazing creature. She has absolutely beautiful big shining eyes, a huggable fluffy body, and at 30 lbs is the perfect size. No dog I have met has had the amazing impact of Windy. It is impossible to meet her and not love her.

Windy enjoying the outdoors.

Windy lived in my bathtub for 2 weeks when she first came from 'Camp Reno'. Slowly she moved into the bedroom. After 3 years she is a happy, energetic social dog who loves to talk and loves agility tunnels. When I brought Windy home I had no intentions of keeping her. I was going to foster her until she was ready for her new home. I adopted her out 6 months later. She ran away from her new home 3 times. By the third time I decided to bring her home with me. Windy truly is my soul mate, and I thank God for her every day.

Windy looking pretty.

So glad to hear from Windy.
You look fabulous!!

Mindy (a.k.a. Elsie)

2010-12-26T10:11:00.000-08:00

Mindy has been with us for a little over three years. She is such a sweet little dog with pretty silky-soft fur. She is very shy and likes her blanket in the corner where she feels very safe. She fears thunder storms more than anything. Other dogs are her best friends. Every morning mom takes Mindy and Lucky (11 year-old wolfhound mix) for an off the leash run through the sage brush. Mindy is always excited to go and she performs her little doggy dance around the house before we leave. On the trail, Mindy chases rabbits and birds, when she sees them. Sadly, she once succeeded in catching a quail. We meet other friends and their dogs on the trail. We hope Mindy is enjoying life in our home. That's all the news for now.

So great to hear from you Mindy!!
Glad you are enjoying the new digs!!

A Message From KATIE

2010-12-22T18:47:00.000-08:00

A Great Message from Katie:

Merry Christmas to ALL our Gabbs friends (four-legged and two-legged alike). Cheers to all our friends that have found forever homes, and BIG Christmas wishes for those still waiting. We love you all.

BUFFY Update

2010-12-15T19:02:00.001-08:00

Sadly, Buffy's Mom, Mary Ann passed away unexpectedly in March 2010. Mary Ann and I met while volunteering for Dog Town Canine Rescue and became good friends. It seemed natural that I would take Buffy to my home to foster, and as it turned out we adopted her.

Since Buffy became part of our family we have discovered what a sweet, wonderful dog she is. She is very quiet and fits well with our family. We have two other dogs: Lucky, a ten year male shepherd mix and Sara a twelve year old female, a probable McNab mix; both are Rescued dogs.

Buffy with her new siblings

It did not take Buffy long to get accustomed to our routine. She prefers to stay in the house, but on nice days will stay outside with Lucky. They love to run around the yard and to get groomed. Buffy loves to go for walks in the desert and loves her car rides. She likes to chase rabbits and Quail. We have a fenced yard, so until I could trust her off leash and to come to me on Recall, she was on leash or in the fenced yard. She has learned perfect Recall and will stop chasing rabbits and come back to me.

Miss Buffy in her new home

Buffy is doing well in training class. She is meeting different people and dogs. She is still somewhat cautious, but I feel she has grown so much. Buffy enjoys seeing my 7 and 10 year old Grandsons. She does not play with them, but loves to be petted by them.

Buffy says "hi" to all her Gabbs Buddies.

A Big Hello to You too, Buffy!!

Rest in Peace WINNIE

2010-12-01T18:23:00.000-08:00

Winnie died early Sunday morning, November 28^th from complications following a bout with the dog flu. She is survived by her sister, Turtle, who is very lonesome without her. She died at home, in her own bed, warm and loved. I knew the time would come that Dama would start calling her dogs home. I just didn’t think she would start here, or so soon. You will be missed Winnie, but I will cherish the memory of you always.

RIP Baby Girl... We love you and miss you!!

A shout-out from ARNIE

2010-11-18T07:15:00.000-08:00

We were browsing the site and thought I'd update you on Arnie's situation. Arnie was the camp Casanova, king of the hay bale hill. I'll let him tell you about his life now.....

Hi, this is Arnie. I've been in my forever home for 9 1/2 months now, and I love the routine here. I live with my owner and his roommate and her dog Kai, who's my best friend and helps teach me how to be a happy well-adjusted dog.Every morning after breakfast we drive to the beach for a long walk - I always know when it's time to go and bark my silly head off with excitement, racing to see who can get in the car first. I love to wade in the quiet harbor waves and dip my nose in and splash myself.

On the beach with Kai

Crab is my favorite snack! During the day I cruise around the big garden and sleep in the sun. Sometimes we take a long drive and a long hike through the cool woods, with loads of new smells and time to dig.

Exploring

Afternoons mean a walk on the bluffs, with lots of other dogs to meet and good smells. After watching my friend Kai I'm learning to be a lap dog, even though I'm kinda heavy.

Lap dog

I sleep in my owner's room, he doesn't mind my snoring! I still have a few fears, like stairs, but I'm so much better than I was, and have almost completely forgotten my life at Gabbs.

Sending loads of love to all my old Gabbs buddies, and all the people who helped get me where I am today.

Great to hear from you Arnie!!! Keep up at the great attitude!!

Byron (a.k.a. Bryan)

2010-10-26T06:46:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! A Gabbs Dog needs our help...

Norma writes:

"You may remember Byron, sometimes called Bryan, who was in the kennel with Charles on the upper right side. He was fostered, and then adopted by a lady by the name of Kellie. Just recently he was diagnosed with acute hypothyroidism and is undergoing treatment to save his life. Kellie is self-employed, and with this economy being what it is, business is very slow. I have donated a small amount to the vet bill and hope some others will as well. Please send any contributions to:

Mt. Madonna Vets
1961 Main St., # 232
Watsonville, CA 95076

In the “memo” section of my check I wrote “Kellie’s account for Byron.” Hope some of you Camp Reno “campers” can help."

Lots of love and prayers go out to Byron. Dinky and the rest of the Gang know you can pull through this... all our Gabbs Dogs are tough!

Gabbs was Adopted!!!

2010-10-06T18:21:00.000-07:00

Remember Gabbs??

On October 4th, Gabbs was officially adopted. He had been on a home visit for two weeks and his new Mom just fell in love with him. She is even quilting him his own blanket. Gabbs you hit the jackpot! We can't wait for updates!!

Way to Go Gabbs!

Updates Needed

2010-09-24T07:01:00.000-07:00

Hello Dog World...

We are missing our Gabbs Dogs. If you have an update, a story, a lesson learned or photos to share, please send them to GabbsDogs@yahoo.com. We haven't heard from any of our friends lately and we miss them all.

Thanks!!

In Memory of Socks

2010-04-15T15:22:00.000-07:00

Miss Socks has gone to live with Dama. Miss Socks became ill in March and was refusing most food. Her behavior towards other dogs, even her best friend Cowboy, became aggressive. Socks was still pretty wild and could not be transported by crate. (Socks was the last dog to leave Camp Reno, and deemed un-adoptable, but her “foster” mom Deb took on the challenge). The vet came to the house on March 29^th and under his guidance, Deb was able to get Sock sedated. The vet discovered a large tumor, the size of half a grapefruit on Socks’ stomach, just below her sternum. After much discussion, it was decided that even if the tumor was not cancerous, Socks was not in the physical or mental condition to deal with the surgery and necessary post op confinement. Socks was euthanized and died quietly in Deb’s arms. She was buried with honor the following day in the yard at the only home she had ever known.

Rest in Peace Socks.

Thank you Deb for giving Socks a chance, and a second one, and loving her until the end of days.

A note from RUBY's Diary

2010-02-25T12:05:00.000-08:00

Sat. Feb 13th. 2010

My name is Ruby Delillah and I am a dog. I have spent the last 6 years in kennels, runs and pens. I have almost been part of a family twice. I have never been so happy at any other point in my life as I was those times! And I have never been so hurt at any other point in my life when those times were taken from me. A dog like me doesn't get chances though, so I should just be happy that a family wanted me. You see, when I was a baby, they say that my Momma chewed my ear. I guess maybe it was a bit infected or something cause she had to chew all of it off. I can hear just fine though. I do have a little trouble seeing out of the eye on that side. I was still a baby when the ear healed so I grew but the scar didn't so my skin is pulled up a bit and it kinda covers my eye. But only a little. I used to feel sad when people looked at me funny, but Kris said that I am a good girl and that I'm pretty, so I know that I must be. I love Kris and Theresa and all of the people that walk me and play with me! I love them all SO much! They tell me "be patient Ruby" and "theres a family for you Ruby" and I know its true because they are really smart and they know everything. So every morning when I wake up I think "maybe it will happen today!" Oh, I do hope so.

Hey, here comes Kris with the leash, its walk time! I like walks! "Hi Kris hi, hi, so where are we walking huh, huh, where? I'm excited! why are we going around the buildings? this is fun, somewhere different to smell, I'm soo excited to walk wi... Who's that lady? Hey, theres a lady and a dog over there and I wanna go see! Lets go PLEASE lets go see them, can we, now? What a handsome dog. He's big! And he's...familiar? He smells familiar too. I know you! You're Coney. We were in Gabbs together! You got a family and you look sooo very happy. So are you just visiting? Oh, I wish I could be like you. I like your lady. She's very friendly. She smells like happiness, and so do you. I want to go with you. I can be a good girl, I really can. I don't want to feel hurt again, though, and I would hurt if you guys didn't like me after all. I'm not excited anymore. Well, I have to go back to my kennel now, I'm glad for you Coney. You have a nice lady there. Goodbye.

Sunday Feb. 14 2010

I heard somebody say Happy Valentines Day! I wonder what that means? Hmmm. Well two of the others got to go home with new families today. I guess today was their lucky day. When will mine come? I'm trying to be patient like I should but I wanted to go with Coney soooo bad yesterday. I want to be part of a real family too. I want what all dogs want. My OWN people. -sighs- "If you are out there, please come soon. I need you." Hey Kris is coming with the leash! I get to go for a walk! This is my favorite thing! Here we go!Lets go! over this way, can we, please, can we. -Wait- Whats that smell? I smelled that before. Yesterday. Thats Coneys lady over there. She looks happy and she's smiling. She's smiling at.....at ME! She's petting me too. "I like your smell lady and the way you pet me. I just like you." Kris is taking our picture. Thats nice. "Does this mean that you like me too? Does it mean that I can be your friend for a while?" I can't be too excited. I can't do anything that makes her not like me. I MUST be a good girl. YES! She's taking me! "Does this mean you want me? What did you say? I am your valentine? If that means I get to love you and be loved by you, then I AM your valentine!" Goodbye BARK ladies! goodbye kennels. I think I have found my family. I'm going HOME!

Wednesday Feb. 24 2010

Its mid-day. I know what that means! That means my MOM will be home soon. My Mom. I LOVE her sooo much. I love my Dad too. I love the little girls that play with me and give me their chicken nuggets when they don't want them anymore. I love Coney, or Finnegan as he's now named, and my new BIG sister Isabel. I love my big yard and the cozy warm house. I get to come in to the house when my family is home. In fact I am in the house more than I am out of it. Mom told me that I am a member of the family. She said that I will be a member of the family for always. I believe her, because she's smart and she knows everything. I do miss Kris and the friends I had at the kennel, but this is what they wanted for me and what they told me would happen. They were, as always, right!

THANK YOU Kris, Theresa and all you BARK folks, for saving my life! For giving me shelter and support. For teaching me manners. For not giving up on me. and for giving me hope. You can relax now, I'm all set. I LOVE YOU! Ruby D.

ARNIE Update

2010-02-13T17:34:00.000-08:00

Arnie is in his forever home and already playing at the beach. Here's the latest report from his new guardian:

"Well, it's been a week. We're learning more about each other every day. This is quite obviously a long-term issue, there's so much to learn about a poorly socialized fearful dog, and I begin to see why the shelters can't cope with the care and attention needed. Yet I'm still very game, because every so often I'll see glimpses of the normal, balanced, happy dog that's hiding way down deep, and I want to give him every possible opportunity to come out, and feel safe to do so.

"Today at Maverick's was spectacular. There's a path that runs between the cliffs and the harbor on the way out to the ocean, with a nice flat beach and tiny harbor wavelets that aren't as scary as the ocean. This was our 3rd time there. It's easy to control the whole width so he can't escape. So I dropped the 30 foot leash, and he walked along eagerly sniffing as usual with the leash trailing. He looked back at me and then took off, leaping and bounding thru the grass below the cliff, tail up and waving, down thru the dunes and onto the beach. Then he stopped and looked back, about 80 yards away. I crouched, opened my arms and called once, and he ran full speed, circling right into my embrace. Just awesome.

"Then we met a little dog, full of beans and ready to play chase. And Arnie did, full speed, round and round and up on the rocks, then followed her back to me. He loves splashing thru the tide pools and sniffing everything.

"Comfortable in the garden by himself, not barking or whining per the neighbors. But still a bit of fear of the tailgate of the car, the TV, etc. It's time, love, comfort and patience."

Arnie at the beach

YEAH FOR ARNIE!!

Finnegan (aka Coney)

2010-02-05T09:45:00.000-08:00

The Gabbs Dogs site is just wonderful! It's good to know that most of these dogs have been adopted into loving homes.

I was fortunate enough to adopt "my son" from Bevs kennel in Yerington back in 2008. Finnegan (formerly Coney) took to our family life and the kids with gleeful ease. He has a playmate in Isabel our wolfhound mix and my lap is his favorite place to sprawl. He's unaware that his size precludes him from being a lap dog so I just grin and bear it. He's a gentle giant with the patience of Job when it comes to the kids. Molly and Tess love him dearly and don't mind showing him LOTS of affection. This includes attempted horse back rides and leading him around by his tail. Tess, who is 16 months old also likes to show off her drum playing skills using his tummy. He will respond to this by rolling over onto his back and wagging his tail. To begin with, though, we were careful to monitor any interaction between him and (then 4 year old) Molly, as we didn't know enough yet about his temperment. We did find out that he liked to wander and explore right away. He shot through our open front door one evening when we were bringing in groceries and we finally caught up with him playing with a teenage girl in her front yard 3 blocks away. That was within a span of less than 10 minutes. Needless to say we are very mindful of open doors and gates at ALL times around him. The majority of his time is spent with me. I hadn't planned on adopting a dog, but the loss of my beloved sheperd mix "son" Angus, was the catalyst. I felt the need to save another dogs life since I was unable to save him. I found the shelter online and there saw a photo of "Coney" a Gabbs refugee. His appearance was somewhat similar to Angus in some ways so we visited him and were delighted by his outgoing personality. My husband needed no convincing. He was the one. We love the big guy dearly, and I can't imagine anyone wouldn't! I will send some photos as soon as I learn how to get them from my digital camera to the computer. Thank-You!

Turtle and Winnie

2010-01-19T13:17:00.000-08:00

Turtle and Winnie at Gabbs

Turtle and Winnie are sisters. At the ranch they were known as Teenie and Weenie, which worked okay, until they were separated. Turtle got her nick name because she would climb under half of a plastic snap together dog house and carry it around on her back. Turtle left the ranch before the big rescue. As conditions at the ranch became worse, her run mates became aggressive about food and wouldn’t let her eat. There was concern that she might not survive, so I brought her out to Safe Haven. She stayed there a few weeks before I brought her home.

The first day she arrived at my house, she came in from the run through the dog door and crawled into the bath tub. She slept there for several hours. After that, she moved outside and stayed in the run. My other dogs went to visit her, but she really wanted nothing to do with them. And so, Turtle had a pretty lonely existence for several months. When I went out to see her, she would pace and circle or run into her house and hide.

Turtle in the bathtub

Then in May 2008, I got a call about sister Winnie. Winnie had been through the big roundup and spent time at Camp Reno. She was eventually released to a shelter, but wasn’t doing well. Like many of the Gabbs dogs, Winnie couldn’t cope with the shelter environment. Shelter workers would often find her burrowed under her blankets and bed in the corner of her kennel. An animal behavior expert was consulted who recommended she be put to sleep to “put her out of her misery”. Connie Nolan of Wylie Animal Rescue Foundation arranged for Winnie to be released to me.

So after many months of separation, the sisters were reunited. From a training standpoint, it may not have been the best case scenario. They had each other to rely on again. But for their emotional wellbeing it worked out. They had each other to rely on again. Winnie came out of her blue funk and was delighted that she hadn’t been put out of her misery. So I had two pretty much feral dogs living in my dog run and not much clue what to do about it. If you look on the internet for advice, most of the articles begin with “start with a puppy under four months of age”. Well that ship had sailed.

Within a few months, more shelter rejects began coming back to Nevada: Polly, Oscar, Dinky and Harold. Robin Wenham was kind enough to bring them to us. He also offered up tons of advice on helping Turtle and Winnie. I went out into the dog run and read to them, napped with them, sat and groomed and played with my dogs in their presence. It took time, but Turtle and Winnie became more comfortable in my presence rather than pacing or hiding. They would take an occasional treat, but not often.

Then came the next big experiment, turn Turtle and Winnie loose in the backyard (maybe an acre) and see if they would hook up with the other dogs like Nelda (Gabbs dog) had. That didn’t work so well. First they tunneled under the fence and went on their “walk about” around the neighborhood. They would come back though, and I was able to block their tunnel once they were inside the yard. But I’m sure the neighbors thought I had lost my mind when they saw me sitting on the haystack with binoculars.

Turtle trying to meet other dogs

Turtle and Winnie never really hooked up with the other dogs, but formed their own little “pack”. There were some turf wars. My dogs Twist and Nelda were able to cross into their territory and tried to teach “play”. It was fun to see Nelda out there with her butt in the air and Turtle and Winnie dancing around her. Turtle and Winnie also learned to come up for “treat time”. With all that space to avoid me in, they were now very happy to come up and get chicken jerky strips.

As winter set in, I worried about their sleeping arrangements. They had their plastic, snap together dog houses, but that didn’t seem warm enough. So I bought them a cedar doggie duplex and put in a dog house heater. At first they wouldn’t go near it. Then they would go close enough to pull out the blankets where I had put the chicken jerky strips. They never slept in it . For the coldest time, they dug a burrow, maybe six feet deep and two feet in diameter . Old habits die hard. But they did it perfect. The opening faced away from the prevailing wind and it stayed dry during rain, snow and thaw . Teach that to a purebred!

Winter turned into spring and Turtle and Winnie found their voices. ( A weird thing about Gabbs dogs, they are silent for so long, and then they start barking---the voice of the Turtle was heard in the land). I would take my other dogs out for their walk and Turtle and Winnie would bark. I bribed them with rib bones. That worked for a while. Then not so much.

I came home one morning to find a message on my answering machine about the “f-ing dogs barking at five o’clock in the morning on a Sunday morning” and “I know you have five dogs over there” (eight, but who’s counting) “and if you don’t do something about it I will”. This was the same morning my dogs had decided to chase a skunk and had drug me down a gravel road in hot pursuit. No direct hits, but even if you are in the general vicinity, the odor clings. I had just gotten out of the shower when there was a knock at the door. So there I am in my robe, oozing blood from the road rash on my leg, reeking of skunk face to face with a deputy who sheepishly said “Your neighbor complained about your dogs barking.” “Oh?” All eight of them were blessedly silent. White car with lights on top = hide. “That’s what he said, ma’m.”

Playing

I spent the next week trying to trap Turtle and Winnie in the live trap, up every few hours to check the trap. Winnie finally decided roast pork was too good to resist. Turtle followed a few night later. Safely back in the run. Where do we go from here?

I had previously focused on trying to get leashes on them. Turtle would gnash on the leash and glare at me. Winnie just became immobile. A lump of doggie on the floor. I had tried drag leads, but they would be gone the next day and Turtle would poop leash for a week. (Catching the dogs at Gabbs was not easy. Many, like Turtle had to be lassoed. Turtle gnashed at the plastic coated cable until her mouth bled. She made noises I have never heard come from any dog. She bit both Linda (Dama’s niece) and I).

Turtle and Winnie, back in the run began to pace and circle again. One day the border collies had enough of it and herded Turtle into a corner and made her lay down. So began the summer of love. With Turtle quiet in her corner, I began moving in to pet and massage her. A little T –touch and she soon began to actually relax. Winnie would run in the house through the dog door. I had a six by six kennel in the living room set up by then and could lock her in once she was inside. She also learned to enjoy her rubs.

The one goal I had for the winter was that they would sleep inside. Winnie was easy, she would run inside when I went out. I gave her a crate inside the kennel and she would run into it. Turtle would run to her corner, near the dog door. I would bring a crate out, she would eventually go in , then I would drag it inside. Little by little she learned to seek out the crate and finally would run through the dog door to find it. Eventually, the crates were taken apart so they weren’t hiding, but exposed to the inside world.

With Gabbs dogs, sometimes it’s baby steps. I haven’t pushed them this winter. But now when I come in from doing evening horse chores, they usually come inside and hop into their beds. I don’t have to go out and herd them. I used to have to keep the kennel shut. They wouldn’t eat until I had gone to bed, so I had to keep my other dogs away from their food. Now they eat in my presence. Turtle takes treats by hand during morning treat time. Winnie still wants them laid in front of her, but will then eat them. Instead of huddling down in their beds, they lay at night, with their chins on the edges of the bed and watch me.

They have white on their muzzles. I call them foster dogs. At this pace, they will probably grow old and die here. That’s okay. I consider the Gabbs dogs the gift of a lifetime. These dogs, many of whom had no socialization as puppies, were salvageable, weird, but salvageable. Seeing them safe and managing, learning and thriving is in your face to conventional thought on what these dogs would have been capable of. And I love in your face stuff! Whooo Hooo, Gabbs Dogs!

Turtle and Winnie INDOORS

Lots of Love Turtle and Winnie

ZUMA (a.k.a. Pearl)

2009-11-30T11:39:00.000-08:00

We adopted Pearl, now Zuma, in February of 2009. She was one of the last 50 or so dogs rescued from Gabbs in January of 2008. Hopalong Animal Rescue found two wonderful foster families to share in her rehabilitation for a year and get her ready for her forever home.

Zuma is deaf, visually impaired, has a heart murmur and PDA, weak hips and we think she's a little brain damaged. I'd seen her on Hopalong's website for months and she tugged at my heartstrings. Her ailments sound a little daunting, but, she's a trooper and is just the happiest dog we've ever known.

Zuma with her new brother Enzo

She's skiddish as can be, but it doesn't hold her back. We've spent hours and hours working with her mostly with touch and massage, and just recently progressed to being able to hug her without her growling. Our other dog, Enzo, has taken easily to being her big brother and guide, although even he can't get her to relax in certain environments.

We have the toughest time when we take her to Pt. Isabel, the biggest dog park around, and we think it might remind her of the ranch at Gabbs. She stubbornly plants herself on the sidewalk and will not budge. Sometimes, a dog will come by that can get her to move, and other times, I give up after about 40 minutes, putting her back in the car while Enzo swims. She loves the car, and appears to find comfort in the closed-in space.

I'm attaching a couple of pics. The pic of their paws touching was taken recently. They aren't the snuggly together type and I just happened to have my phone right there to capture this moment...soon to be our Christmas card.

Ahhhhh...

I'm happy to have discovered this blog/web site. These are very special dogs, and I am interested in learning more about how to further rehabilitate our little girl.

Zuma, you look GREAT! Congrats on the new home.

GABBS

2009-11-19T09:30:00.001-08:00

Gabbs was named for the place he came from. This boy has not had an easy life. At the ranch, Gabbs lived in a run with several dominant dogs. On the day when a representative from the Nevada Humane Society was visiting the ranch, Gabbs was attacked by his run mates and severely injured. He was taken back to the Nevada Humane Society where his wounds were treated and he was taken into the care of David, an animal care manager at the facility. Gabbs was leash trained, trained to run off lead, was house trained, car trained.... but Gabbs was with left more than physical scars. He is shy, shy, shy.

Gabbs at the Ranch

With David, Gabbs went on long hikes at Tahoe and in the winter went cross country skiing. But Gabbs became a frequent guest at Safe Haven after David left NHS. In May of this year, David was no longer able to care for Gabbs, so Gabbs came to my house and met “the gang”. So yes, he is good with other dogs. Gabbs is safe and happy here, but what he really needs is a forever home with a person who will appreciate the fact that his tail wags when he sees them. Sometimes, he even smiles.

Gabbs relaxing

Gabbs with his foster brother Twist

Gabbs is young, about three years old, and still looking for his person. Please contact B.A.R.K. if you are interested in giving Gabbs a 'furever' home.

GOOD LUCK GABBS!

ROSIE Update

2009-10-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

Update from Rosie's Auntie Robin:

Just a couple of weeks ago, we went hiking with Rosie and her Mom (Tabbie). Rosie is doing well, she is buff and healthy looking. She loves to hike and is very reliable off leash. She has a doggie friend "Poli" who stays with her sometimes. She is always happier when another dog is around, like lots of the Gabbs dogs.

She has apparently mostly conquered her fear of the resident kitties and now shares the bed with them, and of course, her mom.

She is still sweet and loving and very happy about her new life. I hope Tabbie can find time to give a fuller update, but that's the news I have for now.

YEAH for ROSIE!!

MR PRANCER

2009-10-25T17:56:00.001-07:00

Remember Prancer?

Prancer waited over a year and a half, but in August 2009, he finally met Gloria, his new mom. Prancer now has the life he never knew existed when he was living in the cold and mud at Gabbs. He now sleeps on blankets by Gloria’s bed instead of in a damp hay house. In the morning, he climbs in the truck and goes with her to get coffee. He has a small yard where he can go out and nap in the sun. He goes for several walks a day and gets to go running off lead in the hills with his new friend Pumpkin. Prancer is devoted to Gloria and she to him.

Of course there are the Gabbs dog quirks. The oft repeated “fear of men”. Not men in general, just the ones who happen to live in the same household. Gloria takes care of an elderly gentleman, Vern. Bags of chicken jerky treats couldn’t convince Prancer that Vern was to be trusted. Prancer still barks at him and won’t willingly stay in the room if Vern is there. Sometimes Prancer decides he would like to sit in the truck “for a few more hours, please.” Prancer carries on his own little conversation in grunts, whines and barks. Gloria listens very patiently to all he has to say.

Prancer saying hello to Kris from Safe Haven

On October 24^th, Gloria brought Prancer to Bark in the Park to visit some of his old friends. Prancer was happy to see the old gang from Safe Haven, but he was always turning to look to make sure new mom Gloria was nearby.

Prancer with his new mom Gloria, and buddy Pumpkin.

THREE CHEERS FOR PRANCER!!

A Gabbs Emergency

2009-10-11T04:31:00.000-07:00

My name is Debra Ross. I Live in Gardnerville, Nevada. In late 2007 several animal organizations went to a place called Gabbs, Nevada where a lady had hoarded 150 dogs…..she passed away and left behind the 150 dogs. I volunteer for United Animal Nations-EARS. They took about 50 of the dogs and sheltered them in Reno, Nevada while they placed these 50 dogs in foster homes etc. One dog-Socks(see her pic below)-seemed real feral and aggressive. They had thoughts of putting her down. When the temporary shelter was about to close, Socks was the only one leftL I decided to take on the challenge, re-hab her and find her a home…..I prepared my house setting up her own private bedroom in the house with a dog door to a VERY secure 12 x 12 kennel with a top. She came to my home 2/21/2008. As of this letter she has been here 20 months. In the beginning she was very scared, would not come inside, afraid of the building, the TV, ceiling fan etc…I tried leash training-way to soon and paid with several good bites…soon she showed interest in my male Queensland and my female lab/huskie. After several months, I “Housed” her with them. They had a bigger “Patio yard” and there own bedroom-no more small closed in kennelJ Since my lab/huskie was old and had cancer, Socks and my Queensland fell in love…..he taught her to come inside, with his help we have crate trained her and she will go in her crate at request. She finally would eat out of a bowl, was not afraid of the TV anymore etc… She seems to be OK with my kids who are younger 6 and 9. It is like she does not see them as “People” so she likes them…BUT she will NOT allow touch from anyone….UNLESS she is in the crate….I have rubbed her, brushed her and put on a collar…and she has not even tried to bite now that she has settled. After about 6 months here, we had the vet knock her out, transport her, spay, microchip & vaccinate her. He believes she is 3 or 4 and maybe born on the property. That may be why she is more feral than the others. The problem I am having now is that my Queensland is confined to this small area during the day(bedroom/patio yard) and entire yard at night-with her only…but he no longer is out playing with our little dogs because Socks looks at them and has gone after them to eat them…..IF I secure her and bring the Queensland out, she can clear a 6 foot fence easy to get to him and be with him. So I have several issues…I can not trust her with little dogs….and it is a train wreck waiting to happen if(when) she got out and got to them. My Queensland is lonely and is starting to show aggression toward her. She does fine with large dogs and we have had 7 or 8 here at once and she plays OK….but a Medium or small dog…she see’s food….My kids are sad and so am I that our Queensland is not with us all the time, like he used to be…I felt if I got to where I can lead her on a leash and make more progress I could work on the little dog issue, BUT we have not made anymore progress. We have decided that within the month we should put her down, before a bad situation happensL But first I decided to reach out to maybe find her a place to go and maybe go to that next level that I can not get her to….a place where the person has a good set up to keep her safe(enclosed kennel with access to indoors), no small animals and a person who knows what they are doing……..if this is you please E mail me at: Debra@petsittersplus.com

Race Update

2009-10-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

Remember Race? We got an update on him. A Dog Town Canine Rescue volunteer spent her birthday volunteering at Best Friends (what an awesome way to spend you birthday). She sent this update about Race.

"Wanted to let you know that I have been working with Racer (A Gabbs Dog) and another Feral dog in his run this week. I did not remember much about him, so I went slow and easy with him. He does seem to be happy. He is doing much better than the other feral dog that he lives with. I wish I had a couple of months down there to work with him. I believe he does have a chance to become adoptable, but needs to be worked with on a daily basis and spend almost the whole day with people. I do not know how much time the caregiver's have to just sit with the feral dogs. He let me put his food dish down and when he was done, take it away. He eats on his bed. Wed. and Thurs. he was coming out to where I was sitting and would come out when I would go next run.

Most of the dogs that that live in these buildings are red collared, which means volunteers cannot go into the runs. Some of the dogs have green collars. I could work with them and go into their area. Most only have 1 dog in, as most of the dogs are aggressive towards other dogs. Racer and the other feral are not aggressive, so the two dogs live in the same run. Racer had his bed inside and I not sure if another bed could fit in there, that is how small it was. There other feral must come in during the winter, though I noticed the dog house that is under a tent had hay in it."

Race inside the kennel.

If you are interested in adopting Race, please contact Best Friends.

We Love You Race!!

Good Story

2009-10-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

While the following story does not give an update on any of the Gabbs Dogs, it is a great story that we can all relate to.

A man and his dog were walking along a road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead. He remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead for years. He wondered where the road was leading them.

After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble. At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight. When he was standing before it he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother-of-pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the dog walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at a desk to one side. When he was close enough, he called out, 'Excuse me, where are we?'

'This is Heaven, sir,' the man answered.

'Wow! Would you happen to have some water?' the man asked.

‘Of course, sir. Come right in, and I'll have some ice water brought right up.' The man gestured, and the gate began to open.

'Can my friend,' gesturing toward his dog, 'come in, too?' the traveler asked.

'I'm sorry, sir, but we don't accept pets.'

The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way he had been going with his dog. After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road leading through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. There was no fence. As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book.

'Excuse me!' he called to the man. 'Do you have any water?'

'Yeah, sure, there's a pump over there, come on in.'

'How about my friend here?' the traveler gestured to the dog.

'There should be a bowl by the pump.'

They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old-fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it. The traveler filled the water bowl and took a long drink himself, then gave some to the dog. When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree.

'What do you call this place?' the traveler asked.

'This is Heaven,' he answered.

'Well, that's confusing,' the traveler said. 'The man down the road said that was Heaven, too.'

'Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope. That's hell.'

'Doesn't it make you mad for them to use your name like that?'

'No, we're just happy that they screen out the folks who would leave their best friends behind.'

A Couple of Updates

2009-09-20T21:37:00.000-07:00

Ruby is back. Our little ladies' family hit some hard times and brought her back. If you would like to give this wonderful girl a home, please contact B.A.R.K.

Gabbs, the name sake of the ranch, is now looking for a home. We hope to get his story up soon. If you have any questions, please let us know or contact B.A.R.K.

Macy (aka Oopsie) at Gabbs

2009-09-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a picutre of Macy at the Gabbs Ranch, submitted by Robin W.

WOW! She looks like a new dog now. Keep up the great work Macy!!!

MACY (a.k.a. Oopsie)

2009-09-17T11:53:00.000-07:00

Hello. My name is Beth and my partner and I adopted a Gabbs Nevada dog back in April of last year. We got her from the East Bay Humane Society. Her former name was Oppsie but we couldn't stand that so we renamed her Macy.

She is a dear-hearted dog. I've been reading the blog for quite awhile and I'd say Macy is further along than some and further behind than others. My favorite quote from the site was something about "the Gabbs stare." She can easily get "that look."

When we adopted her from the shelter I don't think they really knew what they had. And even though I am a very experienced dog owner (former E.D. of an animal shelter, many classes on canine behavior) I didn't understand what I was getting into with her. The saving grace for us is that Macy is wonderful off leash on a hike or large dog area. We live in the Bay Area so I hike with her most days in the Tilden hills or we take her to Albany Bulb or Pt Isabel. To meet her off leash you would never know there is any problems. She is quick to great everyone, comes when called (unless something goes 'wrong'), plays well with all dogs, and wants to stop every few feet and be kissed on. She even enjoys car rides! She is good on a leash for walks in a neighborhood.

Macy in the car

At home is a totally different story. Given where they lived she still hasn't adjusted to many things found in a home. She has "safe spots" which are both of our bathrooms. At night she sleeps in the bedroom with us on her dog bed. But during the day she is still not comfortable roaming around the house with us. The few times she comes into the kitchen or living room she stands there and stares at everything, ever alert for something "wrong" to happen. And "wrong" for her is often shadows! I'm not sure if they had many shadows where they lived but she doesn't like them at all. She walks into a room and scopes out any shadow - from a light, thru a window, on a wall - and then if she can stay there she is very vigilant to keep her eye on it. Most people who come to the house wouldn't even know we have a second dog unless they use the bathroom.

What has been interesting is that she has been great at other ppl's houses! We have her in a play group for off leash hikes on the days I'm not working at home and she loves them. When we are out of town she stays with our dog walkers and when she is there she roams around their house with them. We were shocked to hear that. Then we took her to my parents house and sure enough she stayed with me wherever I went in the house. We have figured out at this point that if we want her to feel well adjusted at our home we will have to move. And as many of you dog lovers know, we end up doing a lot for our dogs but buying a new home is too much! :-)

Macy's Safe Place

We've had Macy for about 1.5 years now. I love her like crazy and I'm not sure if I had it do again I'd take on a Gabbs Nevada dog. I'm grateful that we are providing her a good home for her later years and I'm glad for the joyful times we have with her and there are times when it is really hard; she bolts at a loud noise if outdoors, I have to leash her in the house to move her around a lot of times, 50% of the time I have to feed her by hand to get her started eating, she won't eat in the kitchen with our other dog she will only eat in the bathroom, she won't come when you call her except on the trail and the list goes on. If I'd never had great take-anywhere-dogs before Macy I might not find it so hard but if I hadn't had dogs before I'd be in so much more over my head than I am.

But then I go for our daily walk and get loved on, see her stop right in front of strangers on the trail so they can love on her and I see this happy girl and I think I couldn't live without her in my life.

I'd love to connect with other Gabbs dog people. I always appreciate the stories I read on the blog. I'm very curious about the woman who had them. Has there been much info on her beyond what you can find on the web? When we got Macy I went right home and got on the computer to learn more about the situation she was raised in. I was fortunate to connect with Shannon Asquith and others from the Reno shelter and Best Friends. They gave me a better idea of what her situation was so I could work with her. I wish my shelter had known more about this and been able to pass on more information.

Anyway, thanks for being a part of a community who is helping these special dogs. No dog should have had to go thru what they did and fortunately won't again, at least not in Gabbs.

Macy enjoying the trails

WAY TO GO MACY!!

Quick Note...

2009-09-04T20:24:00.000-07:00

So it has been pretty quiet on the Gabbs Dogs front. We know there are plenty of stories and updates out there. Please send them our way... we love to share stories. Remember... no update is too small or insignificant and questions are always welcome. No one can do this work alone so this is the place to renew your Gabbs energy.

Keep growing, barking and stealing couches our little Gabbs population.

Love ya all!!

CHESTER & PRANCER

2009-08-09T14:18:00.001-07:00

GREAT news on the adoption front...

Both Chester and Prancer have found homes of their own. Prancer will be romping the hills around Carson City with his new family. While Chester will be exploring the mountains around Truckee.

Hope to hear how they are doing in the new digs soon!!

Congratulations to both Chester & Prancer.

MANGO A note from Robin

2009-07-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

Mango came out of Gabbs, described by one of the ranch hands as "mean and dog aggressive".

Mango at Gabbs

Mango The coat of many colors

His coat was bleached and matted and he had a sad face. There was something in his dull eyes that made me think really hard about taking him. So I brought him out of the pen on a leash and allowed my big yellow lab Teddy do an off leash temperament test on him, he passed that and deferred to Ted and so I also let Lucy my Border Collie cross matriarch out off leash. He gave to her as well, so I lifted him up into the back of the truck (I have a crate big enough for eight or nine dogs) and we drove back via Lake Alpine and camped overnight. He was doing great! I have a soft spot for Labs and somehow we connected.

Part of my rehabilitation protocol at my home is something called large field socialization and I work in an eighty acre field with a pack of between seven and fourteen dogs. The large area allows the dogs to relax and just run and play. If they feel intimidated or extra brave the large area allows them to select the dogs they want to meet and greet first and also allows them to give the more exuberant dogs a wide berth until they feel more confident. They use the space to manage the intensity of the energy in the group, spread out or move together, walk quietly sniffing the ground or play catch me if you can! We walk together around as a pack and I provide leadership for the group. Often times the dogs select from the group a playmate of matching energy and within two or three sessions even the shy dogs are getting involved with at least one other dog. Often they will pair up. Also there is the old two is company three is a crowd and one tries to join an existing pair, this often does not work, because the dynamic is different but it actually helps the dog gain calmness when they are ignored by the pair of best friends. When I let Mango off leash for the first time he took off and ran and ran away from the group for about 800 yards then stopped and turned and stood and watched. Waiting to see what I would do, expecting me to pay attention to him and follow him. I turned and walked in the opposite direction. he stood there for what seemed an eternity, then sniffed the ground, then looked up decided that he wanted to be with us and ran back to the group at full speed. Thankfully!

Mango in the fields

Early on, in spite of being a bulky dufus, Mango was pretty timid for a Lab and easily surprised, his first visit to the Orvis store was a typical Mango moment, being a Lab he was bouncy and pulling on the leash curious and sniffing until he sniffed a fishing net a little too hard and it crashed to the ground bringing several other display items down with it. He had a little panic attack but calmed down within a minute or two. He was a lot more careful with his body when we went in there again! Over a period of a few weeks he was socialized every day and gradually acquired his wonderful Labrador temperament, obedience training went well, leash training was a big step forward because he is a big boy and could pull like a steam train at first. He would drop his shoulder and pull towards whatever was interesting his nose at the time dragging whoever was on the other end of the leash along like a dragging anchor!

Any way Mango never showed any behavioral problems and once he had reduced his anxiety, built up his trust and acquired a solid foundation of obedience training he turned into a perfect dog. I came to the conclusion after a lot of testing that he did not have a mean bone in his body!

Off leash he started to respond well and I do try to work the dogs off leash as much as possible, easier with some dogs than others! My opinion is if your dog will not come with you off leash, you don't have a dog!

I invest a lot of myself into building the relationship with the dogs I rescue and the hard part is acknowledging when they are ready to take the next step and find a permanent home. While I am working with the dogs in public I often drop a hint that they might be ready soon so that I build up a list of potential families. Word of mouth is very valuable too, often people say that they know someone who might be interested. I interviewed a couple of potential families and then one of my contacts whose opinion I value contacted me saying they had a friend who was looking for a family dog. They lived in OC, quite a way from the Bay area but after a chat on the phone we decided that Mango would be a good fit. They had two boys who were in their early teens and he was still kind of bouncy, might have been a handful for younger kids, not mean or anything but they might have been knocked over!

Mango after his rehab and a few days before he went on to his forever home, a little wistful, I hope counting his blessings!

Mango on the road trip going down to OC

A little over a year has gone by and I had an email from the family today :

Mango is the most wonderful dog anyone could ever have. He is as much one of the family as we are. He goes everywhere we do. Camping , desert and Tahoe and Sierras. We could not have a better dog. Still the kisser and hugger. Attracts everyone. Loves doggie Park.

Best wishes,
Cheryl

Aaah! Love Happy Endings!

Massage A note from Robin

2009-07-23T12:02:00.000-07:00

I saw a question about whether anyone had success with massage as a therapy for any Gabbs Dogs.

In my experience it can be a great benefit, I use it routinely in the rehabilitation of many of my rescues. Here is a photo of Dinky looking relaxed. She has had a leash walk of about an hour and then a 45 minutes massage. Please also bear in mind that she is in a shelter pen, with barking dogs all around her and I am standing over her holding the camera!

Also the short video clip a few notes down on this blog, taken at a different time, of Dinky receiving the collar and leash was also after about 35 minutes of massage. I have the video of the whole session but it is pretty boring to watch, if anyone desperately wants to see it I can burn it to DVD or probably upload segments onto the internet, just let me know!

Robin

Wags for Wine

2009-07-15T23:30:00.000-07:00

Fundraiser for Dog Town Canine Rescue:

Dog Town as helped many of the Gabbs Dogs, including Buffy, Katie, Dinky, Chester, Harold, Oscar and more. Let's help them continue to help us and all the others dogs needing help too.

Get Ready to Party for Dogs!

It's time again for our "big" event, Wags for Wine! Yes, we're puttin' on the ritz again this year at D'Vine Wine right here in Carson City. Join us for a doggone fun-filled evening of food, drink, silent auction, and live music all to raise money for Dog Town's new shelter facility! Last year we blew the doors off D'Vine with one of the largest crowds they had ever seen. To purchase tickets in advance, please call Mary at: (775) 267-2059 or you can buy them online via PayPal at their website.

Videos from Robin Wenham

2009-07-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

Here are a few videos from Robin. He has done such a wonderful job in his work with the Gabbs Dogs. Thanks Robin!!

Robin working with Dinky Pt 1

Robin working with Dinky Pt 2

Robin working with Harold

You can check out more of Robin's work at his rescue center Cirrus Ranch.

KATIE has Gone Camping

2009-07-10T11:50:00.000-07:00

Katie is a real civilized dog these days. Here's a picture of her with her brother, Archie out camping over the Fourth of July weekend.

Kudos to Katie!!

Notes from Robin Wenham The Early Days

2009-06-25T17:58:00.000-07:00

"There are some pieces of news that just make the hair stand up on the back of my neck."

The message that came through the Rescue Network one afternoon was one of those. A lady who had been running a dog rescue on a three thousand acre ranch in Northern Nevada had died suddenly, leaving over 150 dogs in pens with no one to care for them. Several people stepped up to the plate to care for them temporarily but the goal was to re home all the dogs.

Let me introduce myself, my name is Robin. I have been called dogrobin a lot, Robin Hood several times and Robin Bastard once. (you can't please all the people, all the time!)
I am an experienced professional dog trainer, a specialist in difficult dog behavior and rehabilitation. I had recently attended a course at Best Friends Animal Society in Utah on running an animal sanctuary. I am now in the process of starting a sanctuary and dog trainers school (http://www.cirrusranch.org/). At the time my dream was in the early stages of development.
At Best Friends I met a lot of wonderful caring people and we talked a lot about the systems and processes of a rescue organization. Even Best Friends has a challenge in situations like this. They have an amazing place, if you have never been you should go. Three thousand acres of Utah and the largest sanctuary in the country , but at that moment they were completely full. As they are almost continually! As I have worked with several rescue organizations I have come to realize that the huge emotional challenge for everyone, and one that I have to come to terms with, is that I am never going to run out of dogs! In fact unless I am able to take joy from each dog that I help, I can feel overwhelmed. There is always ten (actually 4.7 million!) more to take the place of the one you just re homed!
150 dogs

"I was gobsmacked! I mean, what could I do? I live over 400 miles away! How could I make a difference? How exactly could anyone re -home 150 dogs when even a sanctuary that has been established for 30 years and employs 300 staff did not have the space or processes to take them in?" I am just me, I live in a small cottage with a small yard in the middle of town!
I had no idea what I could do to help, I was thinking about this situation morning, noon and night. The logical part of my brain said " it is not your problem" but I am blessed with a vivid imagination and the pictures I had created of those dogs "waiting for god" as the saying goes, was overwhelming.

My daughter Christine and I were going on a summer vacation road trip to Best Friends in Utah, via Bryce Canyon, Zion NP and the Grand Canyon, in a few days and so the logical side of my brain said "Why not go check out the situation? See if there is anything we can do to help." How many of these dogs are going to be re-homeable anyway? It must be pretty desperate. The place is in the middle of nowhere, where did they all come from? Maybe these guys are wild as shit and aggressive! Maybe there is nothing I can do for them. At least I will know some of the facts. How can I harness my skills? I can do behavioral evaluations, lots of people can't do that. Maybe take some digital photographs, put them up on Petfinder? I kept telling myself, no more dogs at home, think of the neighbors, I don't have space, be sensible. It is not your problem Robin. But, of course, it is. In my opinion we all share responsibility for caring about others. We all have a responsibility for the challenges and problems we humans inflict in the world. We have a responsibility for the children, the elderly, the animals, the impact we have on the planet.
So Christine and I decided to drive out to Mammoth and then to Gabbs to try to take digital photos of the dogs which we could put onto the internet. I also wanted to undertake evaluations of their personalities because I was concerned that they might be aggressive. As it turned out nothing could have been further from the truth. While many were under socialized to humans and somewhat surprisingly, to dogs, very few gave me any concern that they might be unadoptable, given careful rehabilitation. I did manage to listen to the logic voice, knowing that we had two more weeks of road trip in front of us. We carried on with the vacation, including a planned visit to Best Friends in Utah.

I could not get these dogs faces out of my mind and the more I thought about them the stronger my conviction. I became determined to try to do "something" to help them. "I could not get these dogs faces out of my mind"

Mango at Gabbs

"I know I can't take all of them, but I will do what I can, even knowing that it is not enough, will never be enough!"

The Seven Dog Rug
A short while later I rented a truck and in spite of my logic saying too many dogs I drove back to the ranch and collected four dogs to work with from my home and hopefully find new homes. Laffy Taffy, Stinky, Mango and Peanut joined my pack of Teddy, Lucy and Tucker. I am going to tell you, in a small home and a small yard, that is a lot of dog hair and a huge pile of poop!

Then There Were Eight!
Then I got the call that Best Friends had a kennel available for five dogs, but no transport. I knew that kennel would not be free for long! So I rented a cargo van, took my seven dogs for a road trip for the weekend. Left the Bay Area Friday afternoon, slept in the van with the dogs overnight at the top of the Sonora Pass, saw 17 degrees in the mountains in the morning! Went back out to Gabbs and collected another six dogs and took a drive down to Utah to the Best Friends Sanctuary arrived late evening, got stopped by the local law for speeding, oops, sorry officer, dogs barking in the back, my face bleeding from a nick one of the dogs gave me while we were loading, slept in the van overnight and unloaded the Famous Five in the morning. Then back to the Bay Area, 1,700 miles on the odometer by Sunday afternoon and a snooze on the couch with my eight dog rug! Those of you good at maths will see the flaw in the previous paragraph. Which is how I came back with eight dogs! Dancing Man joined my pack.
I don't want it to sound as if I was doing all the work. A wonderful lady called Kris from Safe Haven at Yerrington was the glue that was holding everything together at the ranch, making several trips a week to keep tabs on their well being as well as rescuing and re-homing many of the early dogs. Kris was also instrumental in coordinating not only the early rescues, but also the big push to move the remaining dogs into safe places. She deserves far more recognition! Yay for Kris!!!!!

I was hoping that by keeping the ball rolling that someone else might find some inspiration and step in too. Even knowing I could not help them all I felt that I just had to do something, I could not just stand by and watch. And as I say “ Every guy should have a hobby!” So much of my life for several months has revolved about feeding training, socializing and grooming and then gradually they found homes, one by one people stepped up and took a chance on a rescued dog.

In "rehab"
Laffy Taffy and Mango, Stinky in the background
(Mango was labelled "dog aggressive" by the ranch hands at Gabbs)

Dinky and Harold
"Out of the frying pan into the fire?"

When the teams from several rescue groups were involved in resolving a hoarding situation in the northern Nevada desert in the middle of winter they searched far and wide to find shelters with available space who would be prepared to house these guys and try to prepare them for rehoming. This was how Dinky and Harold found their way to the Peninsula Humane Society over 400 miles from Gabbs, Nevada.

"Harold and Dinky are withdrawn and scared to deathof any human contact."
I was called in for support when PHS found that they were so skittish and fearful that the regular staff were unable to approach them. The dogs were not doing well, they seemed to be very stressed just from the change of environment. The ranch they came from was in the middle of nowhere and they were living outside in the peace and quiet, all of a sudden they were in a busy metropolitan shelter. There was already talk of “the humane option”. A euphemism for euthanasia. Fortunately PHS had made a commitment, when they were asked to help, to do everything they could to rehabilitate these dogs. "You should have seen their faceswhen I turned up for the first session carrying a beach chairand a copy of James Herriot’s stories!"

Harold, pensive!

I visited the shelter and with the support of the staff set up a schedule to start the rehabilitation process. You should have seen their faces when I turned up for the first session carrying a beach chair and a copy of James Herriot’s stories! My reasoning was that I would try to reduce the fears of the dogs by settling down leaning back in a relaxed position and get them used to hearing my voice tones so that I would be able to work with them without them feeling stress. So the first few sessions I read aloud to the dogs, they became used to my presence.

Dinky

I measured the success by videoing the sessions and playing it back afterwards frame by frame. I needed to do this because I would not look at the dogs at all while I was in the pen, zero eye contact, for several days, to desensitize them to having someone so close. In order to see what was going on from the dog’s perspective I would watch the video and look for when the dogs were watching me and look for changes in their body language, the way they were standing, then sitting, then how long before they lie down, for example. What their eye contact was like and how disturbed they appeared when someone walked past the outside of the pen, and so on. Then the next session I would incorporate slightly different tests, placing the chair at a different angle to the front of the pen or slightly closer to the dog. I measured the dog’s stress levels by placing small spots of a liver paste or peanut paste on the floor, dropping small slivers of roast beef, or roast chicken at a short distance from the dog. For the first few days they would ignore the treats altogether. Then one day I stepped outside the pen for a moment to answer a call and when I turned around I saw that Harold had vacuumed up the treats.

Harold takes treats from hand!

So I could see that he was gaining confidence, a little at a time. I had some difficulties because it seemed as if just as we could see some progress the management would change the pen, either to another pen in a different block or sometimes just a different group of dogs were added or taken away as companions to Harold and Dinky. Each time that happened I was not surprised to see some regression in the desensitization. Then one day we turned a corner and Harold literally fell asleep with me in the pen reading to him. Next session he took some peanut paste form my hand and we continued to make solid progress, slow but sure.

Harold takes a treat!
Harold literally fell asleep with me in the pen reading to him.
Dinky was a little quicker in getting used to my presence but when I was not there I heard stories of her pacing the pen and not relaxing at all during the day, then she went off her food. I sensed that she was struggling with the restrictions and I am a firm believer that if you want to reduce a dog’s stress you have to let the dog be a dog, see daylight, play with other dogs and enjoy the sights and smells of the great outdoors.

The difficulty was that although I had dealt with several of the rescued dogs from Gabbs the one thing they had in common was that they had, to all intents and purposes, never seen a leash let alone been taken for a walk on one. In fact I had been fortunate enough to use the pack dynamics of my own dogs to teach the rescues several important skills all off leash.
Several of the dogs from Gabbs, when first leashed, pulled, balked, or did a laydown freeze or sometimes perform a trick that came to be called the “roped crocodile” where they would spin lying down rollovers a number of times very fast all in the same direction. This had the unfortunate result if people were using wire slips or catchpoles, that the cord would wrap tighter and tighter around the neck of the dog causing it to panic.

"One of the difficulties at the PHS is that it is a fully fenced urban shelter. There is very little opportunity for the dogs to be taken out for a walk in a low stress environment. Especially any dogs that were a flight risk as these guys were! Even a walk along a neighboring trail was likely to be like running a gauntlet of kids on bicycles, joggers and so on.

Visiting several times a week, these dogs made amazing progress and soon the staff were taking an interest in them. Meanwhile I continued the socialization work and progressed to body massage. Then we worked on leash training. I took to taking Dinky out for a leash walk along a quiet footpath by the bayshore and along a little beach nearby where she took great delight in watching and smelling the seabirds, holding her head high to draw in the fishy smell of the bay. After a few days of this she started to meet my visits with a lot more enthusiasm and we got out of the pen and through the gauntlet of barking pitbulls that lined the way to the rear door of the building.

"Unfortunately she was still a flight risk,when ever I took her round to the play areashe would always do a perimeter searchand gaze longingly at the top of the 8 foot fencethat surrounds the play yard."

Once again I was distressed to hear talk about their progress being too slow, as a volunteer I had invested a lot of myself emotionally and physically and I felt sick to my stomach that they might not be given the time they needed to become Canine Good Citizens. I was sure they could make the grade. They had been amazingly tolerant of what must have been a pretty stressful time in their lives and there was definitely a light at the end of the tunnel. Fortunately with a bit of help from prayer to the patron saint of dogs and the wonders of modern technology several wonderful people in the Dog Rescue Network, Kris from Yerrington stepped up to the plate again, connected with several wonderful people who came forward to offer them foster homes in rural Nevada where their quirks might not be as distressing as they would be for the average homeowner in the San Francisco metropolitan area.

"Many of the foster homes seem to have got attached to these guys, just as I did, I wish them long and happy lives."

In Memory of BUBBA and GIRLFRIEND

2009-06-25T17:52:00.000-07:00

Age and illness finally proved to much for Bubba and Girlfriend. They spent their lives together at the ranch. In the end, they crossed together. Now they are together forever under two trees which Dama always promised them they would have.

Bubba and Girlfriend, you will be missed.

Willa (a.k.a. Shy Girl)

2009-06-10T07:39:00.000-07:00

It's been a rocky road for Shy Girl, but she is now safe and sound in her forever home. Willa, as we call her, is probably around 6 years old, and loves napping in the sunshine, eating treats, and hanging out with her new brother Chew Boo, a senior retriever, and sister Daisy, a bossy shepherdy mix. She was adopted from East Bay SPCA in Oakland, CA.

KUDOS TO WILLA!!

ARNIE Update

2009-06-01T09:16:00.000-07:00

Arnie and I met with Robin Wenham of Cirrus Ranch last Wednesday to see if he could help me get Arnie started walking on leash. As many of you know, it was Robin who transported the Gabbs dogs that had to be re-rescued from shelters in the San Francisco Bay area back to B.A.R.K. and Dog Town Rescue. He also taught Dinky to walk on leash.

By the end of the three-hour training session, Robin had Arnie walking on leash, too. I tried the same routine out for myself that evening and, with a little encouragement, Arnie got up and walked from the house to his crate in the garage and back, with several stops on the way for treats. We did the same thing twice yesterday and again today. He still panics occasionally, but he seems more relaxed each time we do it, so he's getting 2-3 such walks a day for the next week or two.

Arnie has also lost quite a lot of weight. He was a solid cylinder from neck to butt when he arrived and is now developing curves in the right places. Could he have lost 20 pounds in eight weeks?

Arnie's Dad

Keep up the good work, Arnie!

DINKY - Part II On to my Forever Home

2009-05-28T09:37:00.000-07:00

Bringing Dinky home was quite the adventure… after spending around 6 hours in car, getting put into my car for another 1 hour, she finally was able to get out and of course go to the bathroom (that was probably the easiest task in our first week together). I had only had two foster dogs before her and to be honest they spoiled me… to say the least. Since Dinky had had such a big day, I decided to let her just try to figure out the new digs.

Dinky scared and hiding

So our bath adventure began on Day 2, and it resembled a cartoon of giving Garfield a bath. She did not like the bathroom at all, and since it was summer, I though it would be okay to do the bath outside. This poor little girl does not trust people yet, so I have her on a leash, am trying to get her wet with the hose and then get close enough to shampoo her. It was crazy… I don’t know who was more dizzy, me or her. It was around and around and around. I seemed like it took 2 hours, but it was probably closer to 20-30 minutes. When I finally let go of the leash, she couldn’t get away from me fast enough. She will probably never understand that the bath was for her good… but it is an adventure that I will never forget.

Dinky after her bath

Day 3 lead to the next adventure… leaving her home while I went out. It was a good friend’s 50th birthday, and as I said before my previous fosters had spoiled me, so I didn’t think twice about leaving her in the house with my other dogs, Mikey and Angel. I only stayed about 3 hours, as I wanted to get home and check on Dinky. As I walked in the door, I could just tell something was wrong. I rounded the corner into my living and oh my goodness… my heart just sank. I felt so bad for leaving Dinky. She was so scared that she had gone crazy, tearing up pillows, destroying blinds, chewing power chords, ripping up books. You can see by the pictures that she really did a number trying to get out of the house. Looking back I now know that since she had never been in a house before, everything freaked her out. Well, I will not make that mistake again. Thus began the crate training and to my surprise she took to it very well. So when I am not home, she goes into her crate and since then we have been working on being left out a little bit at time and she has worked up to being inside alone for 3 hours.

Chewed chord and destroyed blinds

After a few weeks with Dinky, I began questioning myself and what I was not accomplishing with Dinky. I had never met a dog that did not warm up to me and it seemed as though Dinky and I were not working out. She wouldn’t take treats from me, I had to leave the room for her to eat; she basically wanted absolutely nothing to do with me. Lucky for me she had at least formed a bond with Mikey and Angel. I was talking to Lorayn at Dog Town who was willing to find an alternate placement, but I just didn’t want to give up yet. So she suggested that I talk to Mary Ann, foster Mom (now forever Mom) to Buffy, another Gabbs dog. What a relief… for the first time I felt like I really wasn’t doing anything wrong. Mary Ann and Buffy were going through the same obstacles. I finally felt in my heart that Dinky was in the right spot and that I just needed to relax and let her open up at her own pace.

Through the months, there were good days and bad. It would seem like we made 1 step forward one day and 20 steps back the next. As long as we stuck to our routine things were great. And then… I got sick and was hospitalized for 4 days. Oh boy, it was like we were back to square one. I thought things might bounce back quickly, but it took Dinky a month to get back into the swing of things. I don’t blame her… I disappear and there are two strangers (her future Grandparents) trying to take care of her. But we did make it back to our “normalcy” and have stayed on our road to healing.

Happy Dinky

There are so many stories I would love to share… Dinky has definitely been an adventure in my life. She has really bonded with my other dogs and has learned from them how to be a dog. Doesn’t that sound funny? She will play tag with them, wrestle at times, and even sneak off with toys. She will take treats from me now… especially cheese. And we are still working on her coming to me. She is fine with me going into her safe place now, but still will not approach me. It is strange, but even though Dinky and I still have a lot of work to do, I cannot imagine my life without her now.

Dinky with her new brother Mikey

BTW – In January 2009, I decided to adopt Dinky. She has now found her forever home and has all the time she wants to heal.

Dinky is a Gem!

HI from ARNIE!

2009-05-11T08:12:00.000-07:00

Arnie wanted to say Hi! to all his old girl friends.

Arnie joined our family a month ago when his original foster family moved away and didn't think Arnie could handle the cross-country trip. He has made great progress in the last year, but he still has not learned to walk on leash. The result is that he has grown obese from lack of exercise. Anybody else have this problem? How did you solve it?

Jim Shields
Grateful Dogs Rescue
San Francisco

Arnie looks pretty content...

GOOD TO SEE YOU ARNIE!

CHESTER's Back at Dog Town!

2009-05-06T15:20:00.001-07:00

Chester was one of the first dogs to be rescued from Gabbs, thanks to Lorayn Walser and Dog Town Canine Rescue. Chester arrived at Dog Town in December, 2007, before the Big Rescue. He was more people-oriented than most of the Gabbs dogs and, after a short stay at Dog Town, he was adopted. Sadly, after a year in his new home, his owner passed away. In spite of losing two owners in such a short time, Chester was lucky - he’s safe and secure at Dog Town again.

Chester looking Proud

Chester’s now in a foster home in Carson City and doing very well. He’s housebroken, gets along with other dogs, and has beautiful house manners. He does great on a leash and enjoys his morning walks.

Chester has a minor eye condition, one he’s had since his days in Gabbs. A simple treatment of eye drops is all that’ll likely be needed to keep it in check. Fortunately, his eyesight isn’t affected.

What a boy

Coincidentally, (or maybe not), he shares his temporary home with Buffy, another Gabbs alumni.

To meet Chester, you can contact his foster mom, Mary Ann, at (775) 882-9530, e-mail mmarubashi@hotmail.com, or Dog Town Canine Rescue, (775) 230-3703, e-mail dogtownrescue@excite.com.

So handsome...

THIRD TIME IS THE CHARM, RIGHT?

Good luck Chester! We love you!

JUDAH (a.k.a. Jacob/Jaydo)

2009-05-01T09:09:00.000-07:00

We are one of the incredibly lucky families to have a Gabbs dog join our family. According to all the papers we got, Jacob first went to the shelter in Oakland where he was so shy he was deemed unadoptable. From there he went to Best friends where his name was changed to Jaydo. We met him in February when we visited the Sanctuary. After spending one night with him we were in love and on March 20th he was flown to us in Pennsylvania where he now lives with his forever family.

Judah (finally his permanent name) is doing absolutely amazing in every way. He has made so much progress in the short month we have had him we are all stunned. We have to keep reminding each other that he still needs time to fully assimilate because in so many ways he is a member of the family as if he has always been here. We vowed we would never let him off lead until at least 3 months had passed but honestly there is no reason on earth to leash this dog. He stays with us everywhere we go and spends all day outside with us playing in the creek with our Yorkie, Eddie and our two teenage boys, learning to play fetch (and doing very well considering he did not seem to know what a ball was a few weeks ago!), hiking and just lounging on the porch with us. He is so smart and responsive and all of us are already allowed to pet him, rub his face madly which he loves and even give him kisses. Pretty incredible considering he would not allow any contact without trying to get away when we met him. Two days ago it became clear that he knows he is called Judah and is responding to his name beautifully, comes when we call him and will do anything for his organic chicken treats.

He and Eddie sleep curled up which warms our hearts. He is great with the cats and so cute with them. In short we ADORE this beautiful dog and he seems as happy as can be. Even though we know he still has his internal demons and has a way to go yet, we could not be happier with how he is doing. Our sincerest thanks to everyone along the way who participated in rescuing Judah and helping him find his way home.

Best wishes,
Nancy, Rachel, Nathaniel, Isaiah, Eddie and Judah

Three Cheers for Judah!!!

Exciting News for Eddie!

2009-04-08T09:57:00.000-07:00

Okay... sorry about the long delay in posts, but life happens. :)

However, there is very exciting news for our friend, Eddie. As of March 18th, he found his forever home. And guess what... he didn't have to go far at all. Nanette from the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe drove out to his foster home with the paperwork. Eddie even remembered her and said hi. So now foster Dad and Brother, Joel and Niko are now forever Dad and Brother.

Another great foster parent failure!!!

Eddie and Niko saying 'hi' to Nanette

YEAH FOR EDDIE!

DINKY - Part I From the Desert to the Bay Area and Back

2009-03-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

Dinky lived in a run with her sister Pearl and two other dogs, Dixie and Dolly. Dinky was third on the list of social skills. Dixie and Pearl would come up for treats. Dinky would watch and think about it, but could never quite get up the courage (okay, we cheated and threw her treats). Dolly would run laps around the run when humans were near.

Dinky in her Gabbs run

Dinky spent part of her last few weeks running loose. The range cattle ate a hole in their hay house and all four girls escaped. They didn’t go anywhere, just enjoyed running thither and yon with their BFF Arnie. Don’t know if Dinky ended up pregnant, but Dixie and Dolly did. Dinky decided that she didn’t want to stick around during the big rescue and ran off into the desert. But no Gabbs dog (except Eddie) could resist baked chicken and she eventually found her way into the live trap. She let David know she wasn’t a happy camper!

Dinky with David after being caught

Somehow Dinky made the cut and joined the group of dogs most likely to succeed and skipped camp Reno. She rode all night in the big truck over the Sierra’s in a snow storm and arrived at a shelter in the bay area early the next morning…

Dinky did not do well in the shelter environment, she would shake and cower as people came near. Dinky was to the point of pooping on herself when people came to close. A good friend of all dogs, Robin Wenham, was called in to help. He worked with Dinky regularly and even got her leash trained. It wasn’t easy, but he helped her overcome some obstacles with people.

Dinky in the Bay Area after working with Robin

Dinky with Oscar

It was decided that Dinky, along with Pinny, Harold and Oscar would make the trek back to the Nevada Desert going to Dog Town Canine Rescue and Safe Haven Kennel. Robin loaded them and made the long drive to Carson City for the delivery on June 30, 2008.

The drop off

Dinky ready to go to her foster home

Stay tuned for Part II…

Gas Money for RACE

2009-03-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

Okay... Race will be making the journey to Best Friends on March 27th. If you would like to help with gas money to transport him, please make donations to Dog Town Canine Rescue and note that it is for Gas Money for Race.

Better yet, if you know someone that would love to give Race a forever home, please contact Robin, 775-240-6257.

Thank you for all your help!!

Coney and Hardy AKA The Lords of Flatbush

2009-03-16T12:12:00.000-07:00

Coney and Hardy were in a large pen up by the ranch house where, unfortunately, they lorded it over the other male dogs. Coney was the ring leader, Hardy just followed along. Both found temporary homes at the Yerington Animal Shelter, Dog Town Canine Rescue and Safe Haven Shelter. Coney now lives the easy life in Yerington with two girlfriends. Hardy moved to Battle Mountain to try his hand at being a house dog... bet he loves it.

Coney & Hardy

ROSIE & RACE UPDATE

2009-03-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

Good news about Rosie... she found a home! HOORAY FOR ROSIE!!

Race will be making the trek to Best Friends soon. A collection for gas money to help transport him will be started. Once information is received about where to send donations, it will be passed along.

The Adventures of APPLE

2009-03-16T07:55:00.001-07:00

If you have seen National Geographic’s program about the Gabbs Dogs, Apple is the one weaseling through the fence. So began his reputation as being an escape artist. Apple was rescued during the final round up of the Gabbs dogs in January. Apple went to "Camp Reno" for a month of intensive rehab before he was released to Tahoe Vista Animal Shelter. There Apple learned to walk on a leash and be somewhat civilized, but he was always looking for an escape route. After many months of waiting, Apple was adopted, but in a moment of panic, Apple jumped the fence and spent the next week camped out on the beach at Tahoe. Apple was eventually captured and returned to the shelter. Then time started running out for Apple. (The staff and volunteers loved Apple, but the ”mother shelter in Auburn was not amused by his prolonged stay.) So, a call went out to a B.A.R.K volunteer and Apple was moved to Safe Haven Kennel in Yerington. When Apple first came to Safe Haven, he had to stay in a "secure pen". But as time passed and Apple became more comfortable, he was turned out in a large run with his friend Pinny.

Apple with Kumquat and friends at the Gabbs Ranch

Nervous Apple upon Arrival at Safe Haven

One day when Apple and Pinny were out on their walk, the really smart volunteer decided to see what would happen if they were let off lead at the same time. They didn’t run. They just trotted faster, then faster, looking over their shoulders and smiling. They then slipped under the fence surrounding the Anaconda Mine (hundreds of acres of pit mine) and eventually disappeared from sight. The search for Apple and Pinny continued all day. Even the EPA workers who were doing clean up at the mine pitched in. But no luck. The next day, Apple and Pinny came back to Safe Haven on their own and trotted very slowly into their pen.

Happy Apple

Once Apple knows where home is, he now seems content to stay put. Apple can do a trick- jump in the air for a treat. He came up with that on his own. It may not seem like much, but we love to see signs of playfulness. Apple is leash trained and is learning to stay nearby when off lead. Apple would probably do best in a home with other dogs for him to pal around with. He's losing that scared, lost, Gabbs dog look and is learning how to smile again. Apple is neutered, micro chipped and up to date on his shots.

Apple doing his trick

For more information on Apple, call Safe Haven at 775-463-1842 or email BEV21535@aol.com.

GOOD LUCK APPLE!

Our Friends at Dog Town are Having an Event

2009-03-13T10:06:00.000-07:00

Let's help some more dogs... Gabbs or not. Yeah!

A "Martini Madness" event to benefit Dog Town Canine Rescue will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday March 21 at Vista Valley Shoppes, at Vista Boulevard and Disc Drive in Spanish Springs.

Here's how it will work: Snacks and a different flavor martini will be available in the participating shops, with a raffle at 6:30 p.m. at the Vista Grille. Tickets are $20 in advance (can be purchased at any of the shops) or $25 the day of.

The participating shops are Home Expressions, Reigning Cats & Dogs, Vista Grille, Chez Vous, Olive & LoLo's and Vista Dental Care. So if you ever wanted to get a martini at a dentist's office, now's your chance.

Details: 775-230-3703 or 626-6558 or http://www.vistavalleyshoppes.com/.

ROSIE

2009-03-11T08:08:00.001-07:00

When we went to Gabbs the first time, we took all Rosie’s run mates, but couldn’t catch her. That’s why attention eventually turned to Buffy. So Miss Rosie spent the next two months alone in her run. She did eventually make it to Camp Reno and then found a foster home at The Canine Club.

Rosie at the Gabbs Ranch

Rosie at Camp Reno

Rosie is the most socialized. She's had a bunch of training, she sits and lays down on command, as well as waves "Bye bye". Rosie is a lover, but she is terrified of cats and won't enter a house again if she meets a cat therein. All she wants to do is stay far, far away from kitties.

The Canine Club has a staff person who has lost her heart to Rosie. But she feels at this time, she wouldn't be making a choice in Rosie's best interest if she were to keep her.

Rosie's Million Dollar Shot

If you are interested in Rosie, please contact Robin at The Canine Club, 775-240-6257. Rosie will more than likely be making the trek to Best Friends soon with Race to further her chances of finding a great home.

Good Luck Rosie!!

Meet RACE (formerly Frick)

2009-03-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

Race is in need of a new home. He had found a very loving home and unfortunately circumstances would not let him stay there. His Dad is in the ICU trying to recover, while his Mom is at the hospital a lot.

Race's beauty shot

His very sad Mom had this to say…

“He has those silly little ears and a curly tail. He loves Sonny, one of my staff, and he loves to woo woos at us. He started at the shelter in Sacramento, I think, but got sent to Camp Reno after it was already going because he wasn't doing well in the shelter. He is still horribly skittish, you can't leash him (yet), but once he knows you, you can pet him. I love him and it breaks my heart to not be able to give him a permanent place to live out his days.”

Race Woo Woo

Race, like most of our Gabbs friends is very shy and needs a loving and patient home.

If you are interested in Race, please contact Robin at The Canine Club, 775-240-6257. Race will be making the trek to Best Friends soon to further his chances of finding a great home.

Race with his brother Frack

GOOD LUCK RACE!

Helllooo NELDA

2009-03-06T07:58:00.001-08:00

Nelda was in the first group of Gabbs dogs brought out to Yerington. She lived for several weeks at Safe Haven kennel. But poor Nelda, as we found with many of the Gabbs dogs, they just had a hard time with the kennel environment. Nelda seemed to be spooked by the sound of dogs she couldn’t see barking. She was terrified of humans. When I would go in the kennel with her, she would try to climb the walls to get away from me. Eventually, Nelda was leash trained and learned that the leash meant freedom from her run. She just couldn’t get over her “kennel phobia”. When she was returned to her run, she would cower in the indoor enclosure. Because of the maybe not so legal number of dogs I had, I had sworn I would not take any of the Gabbs dogs home.

OK, maybe just one.

Nelda's perfect headshot

During her first few days in a house, Nelda was hyper vigilant, never quite relaxed. Then one day I saw her out in the dog run, stretched out in the sun, dead to the world. And so Nelda began her journey toward being civilized.

She first learned to socialize with the other dogs, wanting not much to do with me unless it was walk time. Then one evening I came home and she ran to the gate to greet me with the rest of the group. Well, she ran to the gate. She had no idea why she was there, except that everyone else was doing it. When I came through the gate, she ran away.

Nelda with some of her new brothers and sisters

Slowly but surely, Nelda learned I wasn’t so bad. At first, pets were her approaching close enough that I could touch her nose. Now she loves to have her head petted and her ears scratched. Still doesn’t like to have her feet touched. In fact she still screams as if in pain if you try.

Nelda riding shotgun!

It’s been over a year now. Nelda is happy in her world, but is still tense when moved outside her comfort zone, or when strangers come to visit. She came as a “foster dog”, but I never had the heart to tell her she had to leave. So here Nelda stays. She loves squeaky toys and chews now, and absolutely loves to run off lead. But most of all, Nelda loves to sleep on the couch.

Nelda taking a nap

Cheers for Couch Potato Nelda!

Here's RUBY DELILAH...

2009-03-03T08:10:00.000-08:00

Ruby was the official greeter at the ranch. She ran loose up by the ranch house with Buffy. You may have noticed that she’s missing an ear. Her mother chewed it off when she was a puppy. Gabbs dogs do strange things. Ruby was in the first group of Gabbs dogs that was brought out to the Yerington Animal Shelter. She waited for over a year for her forever home. Then, a few days after Christmas, she was adopted.

Ruby at Gabbs.

During the time Ruby was at the shelter, I thought she might be pregnant. Ruby went to the vet, the vet didn’t think she was pregnant, but told us she had not been spayed. So Ruby stayed to be spayed. As a result, her single, full term puppy was delivered by C-section. Ruby wanted nothing to do with the pup, named Ruby’s Gem. The puppy was bottle fed for a few days then fostered by a show dog that just had a litter of pups.

A few days after the surgery, I came to the shelter and found a note that something was wrong with Ruby. She snarled and snapped at any one who came near her kennel. When I opened her kennel, there was Ruby, curled up and growling. After some coaxing, I got her to “let me see” thinking her incision might be infected. She was curled up around a blue squeaky toy. Her maternal instincts had kicked in a few days late and a puppy short. Ruby carried her “baby” around with her for about a week before she finally lost interest and became her usual weird self.

Ruby’s new mom writes:

Thank you for giving us Ruby!

She is definitely a new personality but we love it. Ruby is still getting used to living in a house I think. She was so used to living her life outside running free and now she has her own room with a bed. You should see her sit in our back yard, she looks like a queen just sitting in her thrown.

Queen Ruby.

She and Daisy, the beagle, get along quite well now. Daisy mimics everything Ruby does and it’s so adorable to watch.

Ruby and Daisy.

My husband is Ruby's best friend. They are like two peas in a pod. She follows him everywhere and they love to rough house. I couldn't have asked for a better animal! All around Ruby seems very content with her new life. And we are so happy to have her.

Ruby with her new Dad and Daisy.

Way to go Ruby!!

P.S.
Ruby’s Gem was last seen as a very plump healthy 8 week old puppy (with 2 ears) being adopted by a couple in Reno, NV.

Meet PRANCER

2009-03-03T07:46:00.000-08:00

Prancer and his brother, Dancer, were dumped on the Gabbs ranch as puppies many years ago on Christmas Eve. Prancer lived most of his life on the ranch surrounded by other dogs, but with little contact with human beings. He was at the ranch when the rains came in January and the runs were flooded. Prancer left the ranch a few days before the big rescue.

Prancer at Gabbs

Prancer after the rain at Gabbs

He was one of the last four dogs to be taken to the Yerington Animal Shelter. When he was brought out of Gabbs, Prancer’s long coat had to be shaved to remove the mats and mud. Even though it was still winter, Prancer was jazzed about his new do. Now his coat has now grown back long, silky and shiny.

Prancer after his new do.

Prancer out for a walk.

Prancer is a Retriever/Border Collie mix. The Border Collie in him tells him to bark at all things strange (including people) to keep them away. You have to put some effort into getting to know Prancer (and lots of treats). But once he gets to know you, Prancer is a love and will dance in place when you approach. Prancer gets along with most other dogs. He is leash trained and loves to go for long walks, both on and off lead. Prancer is about 6 years old. He is neutered and up to date on his shots. Prancer is still waiting at Safe Haven Kennel for that one person who will give him the home he has waited for so long.

Prancer now... with his shiny new coat.

For more information about Prancer, call 775-463-1842 or email BEV21535@aol.com.

Good Luck Prancer!!

KATIE

2009-02-27T14:07:00.001-08:00

Katie was one big matted mess when she was first rescued. Since a visit to the groomer and sporting a nice new trim, she is hardly recognizable as the same dog. It was thought that Katie may have had a home before her Gabbs days, as she knew some commands, did well on a leash and was already spayed. To the surprise of everyone though, she still had her stitches from her surgery (estimated to have been done about two years prior). The sweet girl was very brave and tolerant during the discomfort of their long overdue removal.

Katie before the groomer

Katie after the groomer

She blossomed in her foster home and to no surprise found a great new forever home… here is what they had to say:

“Our ever loving, shy dog Katie is turning into an outgoing loving friend to our new adoptee, Archie. Archie was a rescue from High Sierra Animal Rescue in Portola, CA. He is about the same age as Katie and full of the Labrador enthusiasm and love. Katie did a nose-to-nose meeting/greeting and OK’d bringing him home as her buddy. The change in her is phenomenal—from computer room couch potato to “let’s go play” girl. She never learned to play but loves to bound and pretend.

Katie and family wanted to send a special thanks to Katie’s Foster Mom, Dorothy at Dog Town Canine Rescue. She did an awesome with her socialization.

Katie and Archie

Katie is a Joy!!

Angel (a.k.a. Wilma)

2009-02-26T08:12:00.000-08:00

Angel from High Sierra Animal Rescue is home and happy at my house. I got her last year at the beginning of June. She had had massage therapy and was just returning from the Pets on Parole in Susanville. She was still very timid and wanted nothing to do with me. I have one other dog Ginger who wasn't sure about an invasion to her kingdom. We did lots of walks around the property to start with. Angel joined us for our daily morning walk when she showed signs of separation anxiety by dragging all the dog toys and my coats and socks into her crate.

She has relaxed a great deal but has a lot of energy. When I am at work or away she goes in her pen and dog house and is perfectly content. Evenings Ginger and Angel rotate around who has the best bone to chew on. She's very good on leash but still does not respond to commands unless she wants to. Ginger gives lots of kisses and Angel is mimicking tentatively. I can hold and hug her, smooch her ears, nose and head and she is tolerant.

Miss Angel

This spring I hope to work more intensely on obedience and maybe we will progress to agility. She would be great at that. She can run and dive around obstacles like nothing I've ever seen. We just need to connect with the language first. She's very smart and has figured out all of our routines and is quite tenacious when I don't follow the "norm".

Angel and Ginger

Way to go, Angel!!

The Ever Elusive EDDIE

2009-02-24T09:31:00.000-08:00

Eddie was one of the free ranging dogs up by the ranch house. On the day of the big rescue, Eddie refused to be captured. No treat was good enough to lure him into the trap. So as the sun set, the big truck drove away leaving Eddie alone on the ranch. For the next few weeks the caretakers continued to feed Eddie, but couldn’t catch him in a run.

Eddie with Gabbs at the Gabbs Ranch

On February 17, 2008, Linda and Shane Bailey (Dama’s niece and nephew) and a B.A.R.K. volunteer, Kris Brown returned to the ranch. With no other dogs around to cause commotion, Eddie finally allowed himself to be captured. Eddie went to Camp Reno just a few days before it closed.

Eddie finally caught.

Eddie arrvies at Camp Reno

The Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe agreed to take this last minute addition to the Camp Reno population. Eddie arrived at Truckee-Tahoe a wild, terrified animal. In the intervening months he made huge progress. He learned to go on walks on a leash pretty much everywhere. He barked, played with other dogs and came running up to just about anyone in search of cookies and treats.

Eddie at the Tahoe-Truckee

On January 24th, Eddie moved into a foster home with Niko, and foster dad Joel. Joel spent many months working with Eddie at the humane society to establish a bond so the transition to home life went pretty smooth. Niko even writes a blog about his adventures with Eddie. Check it out!

Eddie with Niko and foster Dad Joel

If you are interested in adopting Eddie, please contact the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe, at 530.587.5948 or visit their website.

Keep up the good work Eddie!

In Memory of POLLY

2009-02-23T07:59:00.000-08:00

For those of you who’ve seen NGO’s show Dog Town “Project Rescue”, Polly was the mother of Baxt and the other pups featured on the show. Polly was doing her best to care for the pups in the harsh environment, but another female dog kept stealing the pups and hiding them in a deep burrow. Polly’s face was scarred and swollen from the injuries she received trying to retrieve her puppies. The puppies were rescued and taken back to Best Friends in Utah. They all survived, thrived and were eventually adopted into loving homes.

Polly at the Gabbs Ranch

Polly’s fate was not quite so happy.

Polly remained at Gabbs for another month and a half until the day of the big rescue. Polly was crated and loaded on the big truck with 56 other dogs and road three hours to Camp Reno. After a month of rehab, Polly was released to the Tahoe Vista Animal Shelter along with Charles, Apple and Winnie. Connie Nowlin (Wylie Animal Rescue Foundation) kept a close eye on the Gabbs refugees. Polly had a difficult time adjusting to the shelter environment and Connie looked for an alternative placement.

Polly with her sister Pinny at Gabbs

Polly, Pinny and Shy Girl preparing to leave Gabbs

Polly was eventually released to a rescue that had experience with the Gabbs dog. It was assumed all was well with Polly. No news is good news, right? Eight months later we learned that Polly only survived a week after she left Tahoe Vista. The rescue reported Polly had “shut down”, refusing food and water. They had made the decision to euthanize her.

Those who had worked so long to save the Gabbs dogs were hit hard by news of Polly’s death. But she’s with Dama now, and somewhere her puppies are living the happy ever after life that eluded her…

Polly at Camp Reno

We will remember her always!

BUFFY - Part 2 From Foster Home to Forever Home

2009-02-20T12:41:00.001-08:00

Before going to her foster home, Buffy was checked out by the Vet it was discovered that she had Lupus (hence the beat up looking nose). So, it was off to her foster home on May 12, 2008 and six weeks of herbal remedies and antibiotics. Buffy finally got a clean bill of health.

Upon arrival at her new foster home, Buffy immediately decided that her foster Dad, Jerry, was bad news. To this day, she still holds her imaginary grudge against him. We're hoping that someday soon she'll get over her problem with Jerry, who faithfully walks her every day and bought her $45 a pound dog treats. His only reward (for now) is Buffy barking at him and skittering away as soon as they get home from their walk.

Buffy refused to make eye contact with us for a long time. Instead, she'd isolate herself from the rest of the family and just stare at a wall. She's getting over that since we introduced "steak night" (the occasional evening when all the dogs get a tidbit from the dinner table) and now she's always close by waiting for her share. She is still a shy, quiet dog. She likes to nestle under tables, in corners, and her bedroom crate has become her special refuge. She's not openly affectionate but, once in awhile, when the other dogs aren't looking, she'll come up for pets. She still startles easily and will cringe at any unusual movement or noise, but not quite as often now and without as much drama as when she first arrived.

Buffy's best trick now is how incredibly well she does on a leash. We didn't teach her that - credit Kris Brown and Lorayn Walser. Once the leash goes on, she's very attentive and obedient. She even went through 6 weeks of fun conformation classes (on the leash) this summer and received a lot of compliments on her behavior from the other participants - many of them show dogs with their owners.

She now attends doggy daycare once a week with her brothers, Reno and Shadow. She pretty much ignores other animals and people. Which is good since our home also has had half a dozen other fosters dogs and weekly traffic of dog and human day-visitors, plus the birds and bunnies in our yard. Buffy seems content in her own world and just doesn't care about any of them.

Buffy got the best Christmas Present of all when her foster home became her forever home in December 2008. Her new Mom, Mary Ann had this to say about why they adopted her “we didn't know what else to do with her. Just kidding - it's because we love her!”

Buffy with new brothers Shadow and Reno

Buffy's Million Dollar Shot

Congrats to Buffy!

BUFFY - Part 1 From Gabbs to Yerington and Repeat

2009-02-18T18:37:00.000-08:00

First a little history... Dama cared for 100+ dogs in Gabbs, Nevada and she passed away in 2007. Action began to rescue all the dogs. For more on this background click here.

Buffy was one of the dogs running loose up by the ranch house. In November, 2007, she was brought to the Safe Haven Kennel in Yerington, Nevada with 12 other Gabbs dogs. (The thirteen dogs were split between Safe Haven and the Yerington Shelter). Buffy was the last dog to be captured that day. She was picked… well because we had a small crate left and were looking for an easily accessible dog that would fit into it.

A few days later, we got a call from Linda Bailey (Dama’s niece). The ranch manager was furious that Buffy had been kidnapped. He had planned to keep her as his own dog. We were going to take her back, but a woman from Silver Springs was going out to look at the dogs and offered to give Buffy a ride. So Buffy went back to Gabbs.

Over the next few months, Buffy remained at the ranch running loose up by the house. She would occasionally hitch rides on pickups or tractors, but always kept people at a distance. The ranch manager was always in the process of fencing his yard so he could take her home.

On January 4^th, the rains came and the hay house district was flooded. Paul Bruce of the Humane Society of the United States made a trip out to Gabbs and declared the dogs “in crisis”. Plans were made to remove the remaining dogs from the ranch. Paul told the ranch manager that ALL the dogs on the ranch were leaving and that if Buffy was still there on the day of the rescue, she would be loaded in the truck with all the others.

The night before the rescue, we got a call from Linda. The ranch manager was not keeping Buffy, but didn’t want her to go in the big truck. He wanted to know if we could bring her back to Yerington. So at the end of the day, Buffy was finally caught in the live trap and made her second trip to Yerington.

Buffy stayed at the Yerington Animal shelter for several months, then things started getting hinky at the shelter, so the Gabbs dogs moved out to Dog Town. While at Dog Town, Buffy found a great foster home and...

Miss Buffy at Gabbs

Welcome to Our Blog!

2009-02-17T19:47:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Gabbs Dogs Blog... where everything is devoted to those wonderful pups rescued from the Nevada Desert.

If you have a question, story, picture, etc. of one (or more) of the Gabbs Dogs, e-mail GabbsDogs@yahoo.com and we will share your story here.

Keep checking for updates! We have a lot to say and learn!