Monday, February 28, 2011

New Available BRATs: a petite sweetie in CA, an active B-boy in FL, a princess in KY


NAME: Abbie
DOG STATE: California
DOB: 12/29/2003
GENDER: Female
COLOR: Red & white
WEIGHT: 20

Abbie is a sweet, petite seven-year-old girl who has a short wish list for her forever home. A secure home with mature single or couple who can be around a lot, possibly with one MALE dog who is non aggressive and loves to play. Abbie really loves to play but sometimes she forgets it is all a game!

She loves to cuddle and to give lots of kisses. She will do great in a home that can give her plenty of exercise and playtime but also enjoys cuddling on the sofa.

Click HERE to learn more about Abbie!

NAME: Jair
DOG STATE: Florida
DOB:
12/30/2007
GENDER: Male

COLOR: Red and white

WEIGHT: 24

Jair is a very active 3-year-old red & white boy who knows only two speeds: "on" and "sleep." He requires continuous supervision and stimulation. Jair is a very typical B-boy who will carry around the towels from the bathroom or kitchen, take the end of the toilet paper roll and run with it, and pester incessantly both his humans and canine companions until they play with him. However, he can also be very affectionate and, once tired, will curl up in your lap and take a short nap. Jair sleeps in the bed in his foster home curled up right next to his humans and will sleep the entire night. Jair also doesn’t mind Basenji savvy cats that do not run from him.

Click HERE to find out more about Jair!

NAME: Hailey

DOG STATE: Kentucky
DOB: 12/08/2009
GENDER: Female
COLOR: Red and white

WEIGHT: 17 pounds

Little Hailey is doing wonderfully with her foster family consisting of a man, woman, and two dog. She is very smart and inquisitive. She has quite the personality too! She is very playful and full of energy! She loves visitors and taking rides to the local pet store for a treat or just to check out the scenery.
Hailey can be very snuggly and will sneak a sweet basenji kiss to you occasionally as well. She will give a yodel when she wants to play or when you get home too.

Click HERE to find out more about Hailey!

Looking for a Basenji rescue in your area? Please visit our listings on the main BRAT page for a frequently updated list of available dogs.




Saturday, February 26, 2011

Rest in Peace, Mary Wilson

I was extremely saddened to learn on Wednesday of the passing of Mary Wilson of Greenwood, Indiana.

Mary was one of the original members of the Basenji Underground Railroad in 1997.

For many years, she was a placement coordinator, screener, foster, and Advisory Director for BRAT.

Here is a message she sent several years ago to encourage people to volunteer to help rescue basenjis:

Hi, all. My name is Mary Wilson. I live in Greenwood, Indiana. My first Basenji, Cleopatra, Queen B of the Universe, found me in 1993. I had known about Basenjis, but not how to find one, since I was about ten years old. I saw the movie Goodbye, My Lady and absolutely fell in love with Lady! But we always shared our home with Pavement Puppies, so I didn't really know how to go about finding a purebred.

Cleo was in a local pet store (Yes, I've learned better since then) and her breeder happened to be there. She was going to give them 3 days to sell her and then she'd go to the pound. I learned about disreputable puppy breeders the same day! I talked her into giving her to me for the price of a bag of dog food. My luck! Since then we've had Patch, a stray and my first rescue. He passed a couple of years ago from Fanconi.

I've tried a little bit of everything. I substituted for about 30 years. I was a program director in a group home for adolescent boys with Autism. I was a case worker for the welfare department. And I cooked and sold hot dogs for a while! I had to stop subbing last year because of knee problems and other heath problems. I'm a coordinator and a BRAT Advisor. I've been with BRAT since we were the Basenji Underground Railroad. I can't even remember how long that is!

What do I like/dislike about Basenjis? I love them. I love their intelligence. I love the challenges they give me. I love their never ending loyalty to their humans. I love that they're clowns and companions and almost-human. I love that they're smarter than I am! I love their incessant curiosity about LIFE. They keep me going when I feel like sitting down. What do I dislike? Absolutely nothing. Even their bad habits amuse me!

What else do I want to share with the group? This organization is a real reality check for me. I've met folks who will be my friends forever. And I've met some real jerks through BRAT! I've shared the loss of my Father and my cat Speedy and Patch with BRAT. And there has always been support. Also, if you're not really active with BRAT, why not change that? Volunteer for a run or to pick up a Basenji in need. Volunteer

Click here to read Mary's obituary.

Rest in peace, Mary. I know you were greeted at the Rainbow Bridge by all of the basenjis that you helped rescue. You will always be missed by your friends in BRAT.

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Asta



Asta

Last year we wrote about how we think Asta, a BRAT Rescue, is really part Sheba-Inu. Our evidence is that he grows a very fluffy and thick winter coat every year and he looks more like a Sheba than a Basenji. This year, as winter winds down, Asta is shedding. We were wondering if there were any other Basenjis who shed like Asta, or if he is actually part Sheba.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Coping with Re-Homing... Suggestions Needed!

A year ago, my family had to make the heartbreaking choice to re-home our basenji, Phoebe.  She was about 8 years old at the time, and our family had recently grown to include a very busy toddler and new baby.  I knew that we were not giving Phoebe all the attention she needed, and she was starting to act out because of this problem. It was an extremely painful decision for us because we loved Phoebe very much, but ultimately we decided that she deserved a home where someone would pay attention to her more.  It would calm her behavior issues and help her to be happy again, and we loved her enough that we wanted her to be happy. 

When Phoebe first left our home, we told our son the truth about why and where she was going. We told him that we found a family that needed her to come be with them and love them. He has been fine for a year, but for some reason lately he has been very upset and sad about missing her. Any suggestions on how to help him?  He's four now, and I really want him to understand that Phoebe is happy and okay. 


Thank You,
Trisha Richardson

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Champ's Final Blog. Or, Is It?

Guess what? I'm adopted. No, it's not my foster mom. It's a nice lady named Heather and her boyfriend, Thomas, that adopted me.

My foster mom says that my new mommy has been watching me for a while. After a few medical tests that the lady donated the funds for and a vet review, she really wanted me. My foster mom says that anyone that is willing to go though all that, must really want me. After all, I am a very special dog. And good looking , too.
Me, bunny, and my new lion got our baths and a brushing.  I even brushed my teeth and had my ears cleaned. The nails were the worst parts. I love my long nails. They are good for gripping in ground when chasing Sonic. He loves to be chased.

My foster mommy packed all my favorite snacks, food, medicines, medical records, a doggie bed, and the good blanket - which, I stole from Dublin. (He can share Kaki's.) She also packed a crate. (Yuk.)
I looked everywhere for bunny after his bath. Alpha dog, Nubie, told me mom had put him in the car, so as not to forget him. Phew! I thought Dublin had stolen him, again.


As I was leaving, Little Debbie and my foster mom looked sad. Kaki was looking worried as well. Girls, you had your chance. O'well.

Nubie, Harley, and Dublin didn't care that I was leaving. They wanted the good snacks that were packed for me. I hope Nubie keeps Dublin away from Sonic. Sonic doesn't protect himself from bullies. My foster mom said not to worry.  As, she saw Sonic kick Dublin's butt the other day. (It's about time).

My foster mom and I left about 7:15 AM. I was not put in the crate. Heh!  I like riding loose in the car. You get to see everything. There was some tears in the front seat, so I sat mostly in the front seat. My foster mom told me all about my new home and sang the Sunshine song. All the dogs love the You Are My Sunshine song.

We arrived in Midlothian, IL around 8:45 AM. I got to pee on all these big trees. I saw Miss Cindy's dogs, Uncle Jessie and Nia. It's been awhile since I've seen them. Nia is really cute. Miss Cindy was nice enough to drive me to Remington, IN to meet my new family. THANK YOU MISS CINDY! Kiss Nia for me.

That's where we stand for now. My foster mommy has kissed me goodbye and told me to be a good boy. She said, Third time is a charm. So, don't blow it. God's angels are watching over you." Like I would do anything to spoil my adoption.

She's crying again. I better leave now.  You all take care. I will try and sneak on my new mommy's computer to let you know how it's going.

Sincerely,
Champ

(Note from Foster Mom: So far, Champ has "blessed" the curtains so to speak. He is getting along well with the other dogs after their hackled meet and greet. I am keeping Champ on the website for one week, as to not jinx his adoption this time. (Sorry, Mike.) And yes, I miss him.  Sniff. Sniff. )

Monday, February 21, 2011

The Month of Love

February is the month to celebrate Valentine's Day. And even though the day has passed, I'm still feeling the love and want to share some of the love we've felt in our home with our dogs and dogs we've fostered or who have passed through in one way or another.
Jazzie & Dixie

Relaxing with my two B-girls


Dixie & Jazzie


Jazzie & Dixie


Sebastian is reunited with the family who loves him


Nina & Dixie


Lincoln & Reagan


Venus & Dixie


Bridgette & Jazzie


Jazzie & Dixie


My 3 B's; Dixie, Jazzie & Benny


Jazzie, Dixie & Titan


Jazzie & Dixie



Dixie & Pixie

Shelby & Misty, Bridgette & Dixie


Tabby & Floyd


Bridgette & baby Dixie


Bandit & Bailey


Jazzie, Dixie & Khufu

Jazzie & Buster


Coleman, loved in his new home






















New Available BRAT: Lola in NJ


NAME: Lola
DOG STATE: New Jersey
DOB: 10/15/2005
GENDER: Female
COLOR: Tricolor
WEIGHT: 18

Lola is a sweet, patient tricolor Basenji. Since Lola came into BRAT foster care, her life has changed. She is becoming more confident. At five years old, she has already outgrown many puppy traits.

Lola is house trained and will pace by the door if she needs to go outside. She prefers to potty in the fenced yard, rather than while walking on a leash. Lola has been well socialized with people and has lived with school aged children. She likes to be close to her people and is not shy about meeting new people.

Click HERE to find out more about Lola!

Looking for a Basenji rescue in your own neighborhood? Please check out our regularly updated profiles of available dogs on the main BRAT page.



Saturday, February 19, 2011

What a difference 40 degrees makes



What a difference 40F degrees makes. The world is an all-around better place because the snow and ice are gone and the sun is shining. Just about a week ago, we had ice everywhere. Then the 50F (10C) degree weather came along and melted all the snow. Ivan and Dasa are happy. They can go outside without coats and booties. Their mom and dad are happy because we aren’t exhausted from suiting up as though we were at a staging area getting ready for battle. And it was a battle of sorts, as we wriggled the munchkins in and out of winter clothing, and set forth into the gloom. Dasa is especially sensitive to the cold, and if we ventured too far, her tail drooped into whippet position, and I carried my stoic little girl home.

For weeks we’ve been glumly comparing the usual average temperatures for this time of year with the cold unpleasantness we’ve been enduring. So, happy dance, we are back up to normal, and how wonderful normal is. It’s delightful to stroll out the door wearing regular shoes and only one pair of socks instead of boots and pairs of heavy socks. Our brave little munchkins don’t have to wear sweaters to enjoy their backyard. Everyone’s step is lighter. We can take longer walks, which makes Ivan and Dasa happy, and also helps with their cabin fever.
Their back yard is once again fun to explore since the nasty white stuff disappeared, and walks are not only longer, but much less frustrating as they no longer have to trot bravely along, searching vainly for grass among the snow drifts along the street.

Due to all the practice I’ve had, I’ve found more efficient ways to shovel snow. This is quite depressing. I realize it’s still February, but the groundhog didn’t see his shadow, and we are ever hopeful winter will slip into a deep sleep, possibly for years. The munchkins are ready for spring.

Friday, February 18, 2011

The Road They've Traveled

Often when so many Basenjis need homes we think of people giving the dogs up because of behavior problems or because they just are not willing to take care of them any more.

Of course there are many more reasons for Basenjis to end up in BRAT. Some are strays, some have been abused, some are from puppy mills offered up for auction. But there are many other reasons for Basenjis being put up for adoption from their used-to-be-forever homes.

In hard times people lose their homes, end up out of work and having to move to other areas. Sometimes people die and the relatives or friends do not want the responsibility of taking on a dog. Illness and moves to nursing homes or retirement homes may not permit a person to take their dog with them. Many times a dog is loved and cared for and the idea of finding a new home is the only option that can be seen at the time.

Most often adopters have no idea what the Basenji they have adopted has been through.

We knew when we adopted our Sanji that he had been in a puppy mill for over a year as an intact male, then was neutered and adopted from a pet store by a couple who eventually went through a divorce. He was taken to obedience training by their daughter. He has several scars on his legs and one on his face. He was given up to BRAT foster care when he was 4 years old, then shipped from Virginia to us. He is now 10 years old.

For the first years he was with us he exhibited fear and had intestinal upsets, until we figured out that he was allergic to grains. He was aggressive toward other dogs on walks, pulled excessively, and tried to go after other dogs while he was leashed. At the dog park he completely ignored other dogs, and only sniffed around the fences.

Now he has another Basenji boy, Gumbo, that he raised from a pup, and our Sanji is a happy Basenji who finally believes he has a forever home at last. When Gumbo came into the family Sanji began to have more confidence, and even though he guarded Gumbo from other dogs, he began to run with them for the first time.  Now he is totally relaxed at the dog park and with other people, and Sanji actually plays with other dogs besides "his" Gumbo.

Sometimes it takes a very long time for rescue dogs to come out of their shell, but it is wonderful and absolutely rewarding to see their progress. We are so happy to have Sanji and Gumbo.

Marj Baker

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

BRAT on Facebook and Twitter

BRAT has had a Facebook group for some time but we have now set up an official Facebook page.

Check it out here.

If you are a Facebook member, we hope you will "Like" our page. We plan to use it to give blog updates as well as new dog posts and other general basenji rescue news.

We also have a Facebook page for our new podcast, Basenji Rescue Radio. You can find show notes and ask questions on that page.

If you prefer Twitter, you can find BRAT here.

Of course, the most important portal for BRAT is our website. Check that out by clicking here.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Calvin Yodeling


Just thought I would share this silly video of Mr. Calvin Cuddles yodeling. He is a ham and LOVES the camera!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDdewFJq9sw

Enjoy! :)

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Available BRAT Rescues: West Coast

NAME: Oreo
DOG STATE: Oregon
DOB: 6/1/2003
GENDER: Male
COLOR: Black and white
WEIGHT: 26

Oreo – a black & white beauty of a Basenji - needs a home where someone will love him for who he is. He plays and gets along fine with other dogs and behaves himself around cats. Oreo is a frequent car traveler and rides very well. Upon meeting other dogs he reacts according to the signals he reads from them. He is very sociable with other sociable dogs and has never had any unpleasant confrontations with his canine interactions. He also loves humans and does not shy away from strangers but would do better in a home with kids over the age of eight. He is an energetic boy who needs daily exercise so that he is a calm (and happy) Basenji at night.

Click HERE to learn more about Oreo!


NAME: Benji
DOG STATE: California
DOB: 2005?
GENDER: Male
COLOR: Red and white

Beni is a petite, inquisitive red and white male that is a master couch potato. After a full day chasing squirrels in the back yard and a good thrashing of a chew toy, Benji is ready to cuddle on the couch for the evening. He is admired by all whether being cooed over on his daily walk or chasing a tennis ball at the dog park. Lots of puppy still left in this six year old. He is very food motivated, intelligent and trainable—for a basenji! Benji truly is a lovable dog worth a second chance.

Click HERE to learn more about Benji!


NAME: Fred
DOG STATE: California
DOB: 1/9/2000
GENDER: Male
COLOR: Red & white
WEIGHT: 23

Fred is a tall, lean, handsome boy with a wonderfully vibrant red coat, and a completely rub-worthy belly. He is also a smart Basenji boy with a great sense of humor, who has a whole lot of love to give. One of his favorite games is "I got you." In this game, he will pretend he's not looking at you (although you'll catch him looking at you out of the corner of his eye) and then he'll give you a playful pounce and run around at full speed. He also likes to tap at balls and spin around with stuffed toys in his mouth.

Click HERE to read more about Fred!


NAME: Kerby
DOG STATE: California
DOB: 12/29/2001
GENDER: Male
COLOR: Red and white
WEIGHT: 23

Kerby is a well-rounded basenji. He gets along well with other dogs and likes all people he meets. He is housebroken and knows some basic commands like, "sit," "no" and "off." He has a very strong basenji curiosity and is looking forward to many new adventures in his new home.

Kerby adores his people and is loyal and loving. He wants to be with his humans as often as possible. He loves a good cuddle, snuggle and scratch. He gets along well with men, women and children. He likes to explore the great outdoors but likes to find a comfy spot in the house with his humans for some good snuggle time too.

Click HERE to learn more about Kerby!


Looking for a Basenji rescue in your area?
Many more are listed on the main BRAT page.

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Naybie Baby

Every one of my animals gets some silly nickname. My newest family member is B.R.A.T. #3450 , aka Nayru. She was named after a character in a video game. But I call her, among other things, Naybie Baby. And, what's worse, I sing "Naybie Baby" to the tune of "Santa Baby." She doesn't seem to care. Just looking at her makes her do the donut-tail shake. Honestly, when I read her foster mom's comments about "the tail-wagginest" girl, I found it hard to believe, but I was wrong. 


Nayru is one of the most pleasant-tempered dogs I've ever met. She's content to curl up on the couch or under the covers. She has been to the homes of two friends and played nicely with their dogs. Of course, that was after the initial round of snarking and establishing the rights of a sovereign Basenji Empress while on foreign soil. Once every canine realizes she is in residence, then the fun can commence.

One of her best things was to launch herself from a papasan into the middle of a dog mosh pit. At 21 lbs she was the 3rd smallest dog there, but that didn't stop her from boxing with a 150 lb Saint Bernard mix. He was appropriately charmed. You can see some of the fun in some videos I made. She isn't afraid of a thing, is she?

· Video of Dogs Romping: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6goi9jHMqxc



· Video of Holiday Romping: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIV2aWgZtJw



Adopting Nayru was one of the best things I've done. I used to own/show a pair of Basenjis. My female was a little British import named Azenda Nuffsaid. I called her Tammie Jean or "No No Tammie." I'd never met a Basenji before I went to meet Tammie. It's by the grace of the Gods that I survived Basenji Ownership 101 with a hard-headed 1 year old. But she was with me for 11 more years and I treasured each of them. Now I have a B in my life again. I am fortunate that this one--while a typical mischievous, too-smart-for-her-own collar Basenji girl--is in my home and under my covers.


My ongoing and continual thanks to Melissa Benda--TX coordinator, Mike--BRAT home visitor, and Anita--foster mom for helping me adopt this incredible bundle of joy, and Ben, who picked her up from the shelter, gave her love, and her name.

She brings me laughter every day in one way or another so thank you, B.R.A.T. Thank you. Now I have to go. Naybie Baby wants one more chorus of her song, then she's off to thump her chiweenie brother until he plays with her. They might even see if the old Maine Coon cat wants to join in. It's a Basenji's life here in Texas.
-Stephanie Lynch

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Baffled

It will be 2 years in April since Kenya and Phoenix came into our lives. Like all rescues, they came with some baggage. We will never really know what happend in their past to cause their fears and behavior quirks but we have been so pleased at how quickly they have adjusted. Phoenix, who would attach himself like white on rice to me anytime a new person entered our home has become a confident, fun loving basenji boy who greets everyone with gusto when they enter our home. Kenya had a problem with her head being touched (she would scream like someone had hurt her) but that fear went away within the first month. She was terrified of loud noises. That fear also vanished within a few months. The one thing we could not and still can't do is pick her up. Other than that and waking badly, from day one she was the more confident of the two. She would charm the pants off anyone who entered the house with adorable antics but her main charm was reserved for Daddy. She adores my husband and is definately daddy's girl. Which brings me to something that is baffling us.

In January we went on a cruise. We have a dog sitter who stays at the house for the week. We have been using her for over a year and the kids love her. When we came back from vacation everything was normal. Kenya and Phoenix were excited we were home and it was great to get the love and cuddles we had missed when we were gone. After being home a few days, there was an incident or 2 when she was lying next to Lloyd He went to pet her and she screamed and tried to bite him. We figured it was her "getting startled and waking badly" antics. About a week and a half after we got home we had to go to NY for a day and had the dog sitter come in again. When we came back Kenya started acting strange with Lloyd. Every time he tried to touch her she would scream. She wouldn't go near him. If she was in the room and he entered she would leave. If she saw him coming, she would turn around and go the other way. It got worse every day and after 2 days she was terrified to be near him. She also became very jumpy and frightend with movement and noises. She would come to me for snuggles and love but wouldn't stay in the room if he came in. I'm friends with the dog sitter and she came over and Kenya cuddled with her as well. As the week went on, the terror went away but she still wouldn't let lloyd touch her. She would stare at him from a distance, sleep next to him in bed but no touching. She also wouldn't sit near him on the couch. Its been killing Lloyd as we can't understand what is going on. We had a session with a pet communicator who gave us some interesting insights into what Kenya was feeling. She said Kenya was angry with Lloyd and afraid that he would abandon her. Her anger, fear and hurt was directed at him and not me because he was her person. She also said Kenya wasn't happy because she felt Phoenix was replacing her as the alpha in the household. She assured Kenya that Lloyd loves her and would not leave her and she asked Kenya to show Lloyd she loved him. What was interesting was while she was communicating with Kenya it was the only time that Kenya got up on the couch next to Lloyd and let him pet her. She gave us some suggestions but its heart breaking as everyday is a challenge as to whether she will let him touch her. Now she is starting to act out with me as well.

If anyone has any insights or suggestions we welcome them! We want our little girl back!

Gibby update

On Monday, January 31st, Gibby had emergency surgery for a compressed disc in his back.

You can read the original blog post by clicking here.

Suzanne Sarlls-Hartwell now reports: "We heard from his new foster-to-adopt mom today. He is walking better and trying to run. He had his staples removed today too. Good thoughts and prayers do work!"

BRAT has spent more than $2500.00 on Gibby's surgery. If you would like to help reimburse these costs, you can do so by clicking here.

Thank you for your help!

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Cancer Chronicles: Staying Well, Staying Positive

Last month's post and the news about Bow's tumor was grim, but it was encouraging to get so many supportive messages.

She had a seizure in early January which was hugely discouraging, but she was put on a low dose of phenobarbital (an anti-seizure drug) and prednisone (a steroid). Not only has she gone more than a month without a seizure (she has had only one to date), but her energy level and alertness were back to normal within barely 12 hours. Besides struggling a bit going down the stairs and having muscle wasting around her forehead, she is back to her old self.

My primary vet keeps using the term "Let's keep her comfortable for the time she has left." But she too has been very encouraged by how stable things have been the past six weeks. She got a blood test a couple of weeks ago, and all her levels are right where they should be, and we cut back the prednisone to half level.

Our life is happy for now, and we cherish each day together. This coming weekend we will take our Canine Good Citizen certification. Whether we pass or not isn't the biggest issue. The fact that we have come so far in training over the past two years is reward enough. When Bow arrived two and a half years ago, she was very dog reactive and would chew on her leash, spin and put up her basenji Mowhawk if we saw another dog even half a block away. Today she can pass even the yappiest Chihuahua with relative calm, looking at it condescendingly but not lunging and walking ahead on a calm, loose leash.

UPDATE: Bow passed the Canine Good Citizen certification today! We'll write all about it in next month's post.

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2010

The ASPCA has released their annual list of the Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2010.


Some highlights from the findings:

  • Accidental ingestion of human medications accounted for 25 percent of all calls to the ASPCA in 2010. The most common culprits included antidepressants and over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
  • Approximately 20 percent of all calls concerned insecticides commonly used for flea control. Our feline friends are especially vulnerable to the misapplication of spot-on flea and tick products.
  • Baits used to kill mice and rats can be deadly if ingested by pets. Many rodenticides are grain-based, which attracts not only rodents, but dogs and cats, too, and can cause seizures, internal bleeding or kidney failure.
  • Some of the most delicious people food, including grapes, raisins and garlic, can be poisonous to pets. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, while onions and garlic can cause anemia if ingested in sufficient amounts.
  • Household plants may keep your house green and your air clean, but some can cause serious gastrointestinal problems for companion animals. Please visit our list of pet-safe plants before your next trip to the nursery.
For more, read the ASPCA article on the Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2010.

If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please call your vet or the ASPCA’s 24-hour poison control hotline at (888) 426-4435.

Monday, February 7, 2011

BRAT Honors its Dedicated Volunteers

BRAT has been holding basenji rescue conventions since 2003.

In 2006, we started a tradition of presenting plaques to some of our more dedicated volunteers during our annual banquet. Below is a list of our honorees for the past five years. These incredible people are just a few of the scores of our wonderful "basenji rescue angels." Thank you to everyone who either directly assisted in basenji rescue or donated to help us during the past twelve years of BRAT's existence.

The plaques always include the BRAT convention logo--designed for the past several years by our very talented graphic artist, Mark Ziegler.

ps. To learn more about the 2011 convention, click here. To become a basenji rescue volunteer, click here.


2010:

Kristen Ayres
B. Ann Hageman
Beth Schmidt
Steve Warner and Carey Hall-Warner
Oren Will
Jack Austin
John and Mary Hamilton
Margaret O'Reilly
Hillsborough County Humane Society
Chris Yakymyshyn

2009:

Suzanne Sarlls-Hartwell
JR Key
Pam Hamilton
Patricia Dukes

2008:

Roberta Kosek
Jennifer Ellin
Sharron Hurlbut
Yvonne Ricroft
Ann Ketcherside
Linda Siegel
Shirley Davis
Beth Schmidt
Paula Nikonow
Deb Tipton

2007:

Judy Stahl
Paula Harshberger
Dana Cole
Chey Miller
Peggy Pick
Don Kuhwarth
Jacque Holdaway
Arlene Robbins
Cynthia Castro
Tonya Ahrens
Barbara and Dennis Narehood

2006:

Michael Swan
Debbi Johnson
Barbara McShea
Jackie Kuhwarth
Linda Webb-Hilliard
Elizabeth Newton

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Available BRAT Rescues: Central & Southern Regions

NAME: Phahar
DOG STATE: Arizona
DOB: 12/23/2000
GENDER: Male
COLOR: red & white

WEIGHT: 29

Phahar is a handsome 10-year-old male whose elderly owner passed away last fall. He likes to play, but won't drive you crazy about it. Phahar sits very nicely on command, his leash manners are adequate, and most importantly, he knows what the words "No" and "Leave It" mean. He is very loyal and will follow you from room to room, but doesn't get underfoot. He loves affection, enjoys lying next to you and naturally relishes being petted. He is smart and food motivated, so training has been going well.

Click HERE to learn more about Phahar!


NAME: Red
DOG STATE: Idaho
DOB: 2002/2003
GENDER: Male
COLOR: Red & white
WEIGHT: 35


Big Red is a very typical Basenji - he has a wonderful personality and loves to run the B500 (especially on freshly made beds). He can be a little shy at first with strangers, but he quickly warms up and then becomes your best friend. Big Red is Mr. Personality, but he isn't Mr. Obedience - he knows sit, but could use some additional "education" to learn basic commands. He walks well on his leash and knows how to use the doggie door to go outside. Like most B's, he is highly treat motivated, loves laying in the sun and counter surfing.


Click HERE to learn more about Red!

NAME: Olaf

DOG STATE: Kansas
DOB: 2006
GENDER: Male
COLOR: Black & white
WEIGHT: 25

Olaf is a calm, friendly, handsome fella who will ask for human attention. He gets along well with numerous animals in his foster home and the resident female basenji has decided he can share her bed. He loves to run and play in the fenced yard with his buddy at his foster home, a border collie. Although thin at the time of rescue he has gained a few pounds and now has a healthy physique at 28 pounds. He is well housetrained and walks nicely on a leash.

Click HERE to learn more about Olaf!

NAME: Cooper
DOG STATE: Oklahoma
DOB: 2005?
GENDER: Male
COLOR: Red & white
WEIGHT: 30


Cooper is a portly gentleman who is afflicted with “selective deafness”, a common condition in basenjis. Key words like “treat” and “cookie” seem to stimulate the auditory nerves in their ears. Cooper wrote the book on Basenji Independence. He’s happy just lying in the sun, watching the world go by. Part of Cooper’s lack of greed for attention may be because he has been bounced around to quite a few homes before coming to his current foster home. His temperament and weight have improved since he started treatment for his low thyroid, a common and treatable condition. He's learning to enjoy a good scratch on the back and the companionship of other canine friends. With more love and attention, he might eventually become a cuddler.

Click HERE to learn more about Cooper!


NAME: Coby
DOG STATE: Missouri
AGE: 18 months
GENDER: Male
COLOR: Red & white
WEIGHT: 21

Coby is only 18 months old and he loves to play, play, play. He is currently fostered with another Basenji and they have a blast together. He would make an excellent playmate for a family with another playful dog. During the evening he likes relaxing with his foster mom or dad and just laying with them. Coby likes to be pet and rubbed all over. Kids would be a lot of fun for Coby to play with and hang around too.

Click HERE to learn more about Coby!


Looking for a Basenji rescue in your area?
Many more are listed on the main BRAT page.