We’re helping our friends out at Friends of Culver City Animals rescue group by sharing MACK’s story and urging everyone to donate (if you can) and to just help spread the word so MACK’s life can be saved! Below is MACK’S “When You Wish” fundraiser.

CLICK HERE TO MAKE YOUR DONATIONS

Mack is at a foster home and needs training while his forever home is found.

Mack was found running down the middle of a busy street in Culver City recently.  He was transported to the local animal shelter spcaLA-South Bay for evaluation and care.  The entire trip to the shelter he shook uncontrollably with fear and he cowered in the corner of his cage once there.

He has been evaluated and determined to have been badly abused.  His paws are stained with urine burns and he has bite marks on his neck.  During an evaluation with a trainer Mack relaxed and showed his sweet side, wanting his belly rubbed and playing and interacting with the trainer.

Mack deserves a second chance, or really a first chance.  We will never know whether he was bred and used as a bait dog or a breeding dog.  He has proven that he is not aggressive, but terrified.  Mack responds to love and kindness and has not shown aggression, just fear.

Mack was recently pulled from the shelter and is now at his foster home, but Friends of Culver City Animals are in urgent need of donations to help pay for the training he desperately needs!  Any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated!

 HELP SAVE MACK’S LIFE!

Exciting news everyone, today is START’S TWO YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!!

Woof, woof, meow, meow–HAPPY FRIDAY everyone!!

Click below to get START’s weekly wrap-up of highlights and updates from this past week:

START NEWS: 5/17/13 Weekly Wrap-Up

Have a great weekend!

This is urgent and we need to act now.

This dog was rescued by START because another dog was murdered in Ireland because of his breed. Below is the letter we sent with AVERY (now called FROG) to the Willamette Humane to put on her kennel so potential adopters could read it.

Hey everyone,

A lot of people have been asking us about DENY, the former scared and shy dog from East Valley, so we wanted to share with you the latest update.
A few weeks ago we told you how DENY arrived safely in Lancaster with Sandy, but was too scared to come out of his crate and just needed a little time
….Well time healed everything!
DENY is doing great with Sandy! DENY even kisses her on the hand, wagged his tail, and even let her put a leash on him to go for a walk.
This just goes to show you what a little time and love will do. We are sure he will get better and better and we will keep you updated with his progress.
Check out a video update of DENY below.

Video Update: DENY

BEFORE:

AFTER:

HAPPY FRIDAY!!

Click below to get START’s weekly wrap-up of highlights and updates from this past week:

START NEWS: 5/10/13 Weekly Wrap-Up

Enjoy & have a great weekend everyone!

POPEYE, a pitty that we rescued & fostered from Shafter Animal Shelter in January suffered an accidental death. Popeye was a START dog that went to Snipped Rescue on a mini transport where they did an amazing job on his eye removal surgery. He was then adopted out to a loving home.

Sadly, POPEYE was riding in the car with his new mom and leaned on the window control, rolled down the window and jumped out the moving truck before she could grab him and was run over.

Our hearts are so heavy right now, our stomachs in knots, but what keeps us going is knowing that POPEYE has had the best few months of his life living with his adoptive family, playing in the water, walking with his horse and doggie siblings and being loved!

PLEASE TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW…PUT THE CHILD LOCK ON, AS WELL AS, PUT THEIR DOGS IN A HARNESS AND BUCKLE THEM IN WHEN THEY ARE IN YOUR CAR SO THIS DOESN’T HAPPEN TO YOUR BABY!!!

Our hearts hurt tonight for his family, Snipped Rescue and Celeste & Ray.

RIP sweet POPEYE.

WEEKLY WRAP-UP

HAPPY FRIDAY everyone!!
We are going to be getting a TON of updates on the dogs that went on transport this week and the past few weeks…all the dogs arrived safely! (One of the dogs arrived sick, but is being treated at a vet and we hope it is just kennel cough).
We hired a videographer to film ALL our groups with interviews and pictures/videos of where our CA dogs go.  We will be putting something together in the next few weeks and send it out to you all once it’s complete.

In the meantime CLICK HERE for a few happy updates on dogs you donated on or sent good thoughts for (including the latest on the FANTASTIC 3). **If you haven’t already signed up for our email updates click the link above and SUBSCRIBE on the top left**

DELILAH was sent out to be spayed by the shelter – she was brought back to the shelter to recover – she was found by shelter staff bleeding from her incision area with her intestines hanging out. the shelter vet immediately tried to restitch her up.

the shelter called START and asked us for our help – so we did. DELILAH is now at steve’s vet. She’ll be going to sandy once she is in stable condition.

We are in need of donations to help with vetting and boarding.

thank you!

Hi guys,
I know most of you are wondering about TURK so I wanted to share with you the latest update. TURK is being pulled from the shelter and we will get him tomorrow after his neuter.

We have been asked 100 times to help old boy HOWARD who is sitting waiting for someone to make the rest of his life a happy one. Seeing the condition HOWARD is living in and hearing about his sad story we couldn’t turn our backs on him. That being said, if you can find it in your heart to just add $5 to your already kind donation for TURK we will go ahead and pull HOWARD too (we will pull him regardless anyway ). It only takes $5 to make a difference in these sweet boys lives.

(Please see HOWARD’S sad story and pictures below)

Any help is much appreciated.
Thank you all again!!

PLEASE NOTE: I am no longer taking pledges but taking donations directly.

Like always, if for some reason this dog is adopted or euthanized we will rescue another in his place.

Meet HOWARD:

Sweet Senior HOWARD is wasting away at the E. Valley LA Shelter!
HOWARD is 10 yrs. old and is super sweet. HOWARD was found on the street confused and scared. He was brought into the shelter and is now fighting for his life! He is sleeping on cold concrete when he should be sleeping on a nice comfy bed enjoying the last years of his life. It looks like other dogs have beaten HOWARD up—bite marks on him, raw patches on his elbow pads due to the likelihood of being an outside dog his whole life. HOWARD has growths on his body and is underweight. He was neglected and discarded by his owner when he needed them the most. HOWARD is the epitome of how loving, gentle, and sweet a dog can still be despite horrible living conditions and neglect from the people who are supposed to care for him the most.

Check out this video of HOWARD & MAGGIE

Thank you all for supporting our efforts, we couldn’t do this without you!

Steve & The START Rescue team

Hi Everyone,

We have some very EXCITING news to share with you….Drum roll please…. Your favorite rescue team is now apart of Ralphs community contribution program! This means that if you have a Ralph’s rewards card Ralphs will donate a small percentage of your purchase to START every time you use your rewards card. What could be better than that?

Here’s the scoop: It’s super easy and only takes a couple minutes to complete.

You must have a Ralph’s rewards card, register your card, and then find us online under community contribution program. If you don’t currently have one, ask for a free rewards card at your local Ralphs and start saving money and give back to the animals all while you shop.

“But how do you register your card and sign up for the program?” you ask. Just follow these simple steps:

• Click here: Register online

• On the top right of Ralph’s main page you will see “Community,” click on that.

• Under the Community section, click on “Community Contribution” (third option down on the left hand side) Scroll down to “Participant” section and click on Enroll

• Then follow Ralph’s instructions to enroll.

(If you haven’t registered your rewards card online you will have to create an account now. You will see the “Get started. Sign up today!” on the right side. Sign up and follow their instructions then proceed on to the next step.

• After you fill in the info, you will have to confirm your email address. Once you complete that, it will ask you to “Find Your Organization”.

• Type in “START” and it will then list START – Shelter Transport Animal Rescue Team. Please check on that box, and click Save Changes, and that does it.

Easy enough, right? Now go tell all your friends about this exciting new way to help START save more animals! We (and the animals) thank you in advance for not only spreading this news, but also for supporting our efforts—we truly couldn’t do this without you!

Take care,

START Rescue team

Hi guys,
This is the updated story about MIDNITE, the dog that was rescued from South LA at Midnight a few months ago.

Mandy works with LUV-A-BULL RESCUE in Eugene, Oregon and helped MIDNITE with his amazing journey from the street to his forever home.
The story is a little long, but so worth the read.

It will put a smile on your face.

Steve & The START Rescue team
www.STARTrescue.org

BEGIN FORWARDED MESSAGE:

I wanted to share MIDNITE’S happy ending…(which is his beginning)

MIDNITE quickly became pretty naughty jumping all over everyone, nipping, typical bored puppy behaviors, not pleasant due to his size!! Adopters would be knocked down in seconds, not the best first impression!
So we decided to help him out and take him home. We used to rehabilitate Pit-bulls before working with LUV A BULL, so we had the skills. MIDNITE was a breeze compared to the usual’s!
I could go on and on but I’ll keep it simple. He’s completely Canine Good Citizen trained. We love him!
We have a thorough application process and no home seemed to feel right. We wanted his training to continue, for him to get certified, and have an active lifestyle.
My husband coaches soccer for our kids team and we bring our fosters everywhere when they’re ready, to expose them to real life situations. He was a perfect gentleman and the center of attention. Our good friend Max who we’ve coached with and known for years fell in love. MIDNITE was automatically drawn to him. And when we’re in public he’s trained to focus on us only, nothing breaks his focus. But Max….different story. Max has a lab and today the dogs met and wow did they have fun. At the end of the day MIDNITE was renamed ROGUE, after Max’s favorite river in Oregon.

Max is going out of state for a conference. We’re dog sitting which is great, we’ll get to help the dogs bond. When Max gets back he’s taking two months off to help MIDNITE / ROGUE settle. Then they’re gong backpacking and camping, just the three of them along the Rogue river for some official family bonding time.
I couldn’t be happier. My nephews are Max’s dog walker when he works. So we’ll still get to see him all the time! We’ll be his dog sitters, we’ll have play dates, continued tune up training, and a lifetime of love. Max is the most incredible dog owner. He’s extremely active,MIDNITE/ROGUE will have so many adventures.

I’ve included a few pics, I’ll get the official family photo on Wednesday so you can see his new home too. I hope this email brings you peace. You will never have to worry about this guy, he is living the high life. I am so happy for him. I am so proud of him too. He is very smart and eager to please. He’s been so respectful and loving. We love him so much. Letting him go would be hard, and we’re usually pretty detached. There is just something so special about him. He’s part of our family and always will be!!
Whatever inspired you to save him, he was meant to come here to this big family of love. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am grateful to have been a part of his journey.

I hope to work with you again, team work is the only way to have a successful rescue. Each person has their role to play. Every successful ending makes every heart ache and sacrifice more than worth it. When we’re good at rescue, it’s not a choice to stop. Keep up the good work!!

P.S. all of the dogs in these pics are START dogs. We kept Pixie the black staffie (she’s a foster failure who is still in constant training…she’s a wild one!), the blue boy Baylu comes on all our house calls and helps rehabilitate aggressive dogs, And the tiny mutant is a highly aggressive girl in training too! She used to attack every dog she met. MIDNITE was the first dog she accepted and felt safe with, he helped rehabilitate her with his patience and consistent love. She follows him everywhere. The fawn girl was a local dog on death row after being over bred. Highly dog aggressive. Now…she’s a lamb. She has been so good for MIDNITE she mothers him and teaches him appropriate mouth play in a gentle loving way. I’ve NEVER seen her do that with any dog.

This is why I love pit-bulls. No matter what they’ve been through, their true self is all love. And I believe most can be rehabilitated. My pack is proof of it!!
–
Thank you,
Mandy DeGuc
Luv-a-Bull Representative

Hey guys,

We have a short & sweet weekly update on a few of our favorite furry friends—MUGSY, BABE, SADIE, and MARY.
All these rescues would NOT be possible without your kind donations, support, and compassion.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

A family walked into Lancaster and dumped MUGSY a 16 year old Shep as they said: “They didn’t have time for him!” The kids rushed their parents as they were bored and wanted to get out of the place! Yes, this is how some of the human race act.

HANDS PAWS & HEARTS along with START rescued MUGSY and promise him a happy remainder of his life where he will be respected and loved.

If you pledged for him please send donations to:
Handspawshearts@yahoo.com
(Please write MUGSY in the memo)

BABE was rescued from the streets back in December 2012, where she was found with a chain around her neck and very sad.
After being rescued, BABE was in cage free boarding for a while to decompress due to her bad separation anxiety.
We sent her to DHANA METTA RESCUE in Canada by plane, and as you can see she is now a happy dog.

SADIE was found in a drainage in San Bernardino with an embedded collar and ended up at a high kill shelter. Thankfully, a good Samaritan didn’t want to see SADIE die alone at the shelter and instead of just walking away, SADIE was rescued with the hope of finding her a home.

START covered all of SADIE’S medical expenses and she is currently in a foster home.
SADIE is good with everything and loves everyone.
She is a grateful and special dog.

MARY was found on the mean streets of LA, where she would most likely not have survived if it weren’t for the kindness of a good Samaritan.
She went on STARTs transport to Willamette Humane Society in Salem, Oregon where she found her forever home.
MARY and her family paid a visit to the Willamette staff to say “THANK YOU” for finding her a great home.

If you would like to make a difference for mistreated animals
please subscribe to our recurring donation. Every gift save lives! CLICK HERE

Here is an update on Patty the pig that Rene rescued…

KTLA came out to meet Patty. Her story aired today at 1:00 and most likely will be re-aired this evening. Patty’s officially a TV STAR. Dan and I enjoyed our day today with Patty and all her new friends! She is a popular girl!

A family walked into Lancaster and dumped MUGSY a 16 year old Shep as they said: “The didn’t
have time for him!”
The kids rushed their parents as they were bored and wanted to get out of the place!
Yes, this is how some of the human race act.

HANDS PAWS & HEARTS along with START rescued MUGSY today and promise him a happy remainder of his life where he will be respected and loved.

If you pledged for him please send donations to:
Handspawshearts@yahoo.com
(Please write MUGSY in the memo)

At Shelter

Freedom!!!

Here is a dog called BABE we rescued from the streets back in December 2012. She was found with a chain around her neck and very sad.
We rescued her and she was in cage free boarding for a while to decompress as she had bad separation anxiety.

We sent her to DHANA METTA RESCUE in Canada by plane and as you can see she is a happy dog again.

Look at her now..happy and enjoying life!

Soldiers in Belarus found a little squirrel and brought it to the Warrant officer. The squirrel was very weak and about to die, so the officer took care of it, fed like a baby every 4 hours.
3 months ago the guy left the army and now works as a taxi driver – and the squirrel is always in his pocket no matter where he goes!

To the world you are just one more rescue person. To a rescued pet, you are the world. “Until one has loved an animal, part of their soul remains unawakened.”

This is LUKE aka known as TAHOE from East Valley Shelter.
He looks like a difference dog. Relaxed and getting younger by the day.

He went to MY WAY HOME RESCUE who are foster based only and REALLY went far and beyond for this old boy.

Here are a few updates on dogs we have rescued over the last several months.

DOWNEY came from the Downey shelter in CA and was a “MESS.” He had one of the worst cases of Mange, but with the help of Rene Ruston and Ric Browde (among others) he was rescued and went on a START transport to Puget Sound Rescue who helped him with months of vet treatment until he finally found his forever home!

KINKO & MACY are enjoying the fresh air of Sandy’s boarding facility today, and although they are old and a little cranky they are very happy to be free.

PETE went to PUGET SOUND in WA on our last transport and Barbara says he is an absolute sweetheart of a dog and awaits his forever home.

The YouTube links are of MADDEN & RUDY who we rescued yesterday from East Valley and enjoying their play time at Sandy’s boarding in Lancaster.

BABE was the dog we rescued a few months ago who was found on the street with a chain around her neck. She has been with Sandy for a few months and is leaving on a flight Sunday to DHANA METTA RESCUE to begin a new life as a Canadian Citizen and go Moose watching.

THANK YOU all for supporting our efforts which would not be possible without your kindness.

MADDEN VIDEO

RUDY VIDEO

BABE VIDEO

by Laura Simpson April 4, 2013 Written by Ed Kostro of Illinois

It was two weeks before Easter when I got a phone call from a police officer concerning yet another abandoned dog. “I’ve seen this poor guy roaming the streets now for the past several nights while on patrol. He’s old; he’s starving; and he looks extremely sad and forlorn. Can you help me rescue him?”

On this police officer’s next day off, she and I headed out to the area this old homeless canine was roaming. We drove around the area for at least an hour, and we couldn’t find him anywhere. “Maybe he only wanders around at night in search of food,” she finally said.

Postal employees can often help identify which animals in the neighborhood are residents and which may be homeless.

We spotted a postal worker delivering mail, and we asked her if she had seen this old street waif. “I haven’t seen him today, but that dog is breaking my heart. He’s been wandering around this neighborhood for weeks now, and he really looks pathetic. I’ve called Animal Control several times, but I still see him around here just about every day digging through the trash.”

So we kept looking for him, and we eventually asked another postal worker if she had seen him. “I just saw that dog about five minutes ago, and he was heading north. He really looks old and worn out.”

We headed north in our vehicles, and we soon spotted him trudging down an alley in search of food. I couldn’t believe how thin, haggard and miserable he looked. When he spotted us following him, he began walking a little faster, not knowing that we wanted to help, not hurt him.

We were finally able to corral him in that alley, and when I carried him to my truck, I sadly realized what a truly horrid condition he was in. He was thin– far too thin and his matted, mangled fur was filthy, and it was drenched in some sort of putrid smelling tar and oil.

At the animal hospital, the vet couldn’t believe his horrendous condition. “He’s at least fifteen pounds underweight, and God only knows what this terrible smelling gunk on his coat is. He doesn’t have a microchip, and he’s not neutered, and I’d say that he’s at least eight or nine years old. What are you going to name this one?”

Hi guys,
The Moreno MOMMY and her 8 PUPS, RUDY, MADDEN, MACY & KINKO are “ALL” safe tonight. Mommy and pups are with a foster and the other four are with Sandy at boarding.

THANK YOU all for making this possible and for your kind words and support for the “UNDERDOGS” who are all LLF’S!

If you would still like to send a donation for their care please see donation info below.

You guys are all awesome and we are so grateful for your compassion.
Thank you all for supporting our efforts, we couldn’t do this without you!

Steve & The START Rescue team
www.STARTrescue.org

DONATION INFO for “THE UNDERDOGS”
Pay Pal:
Donations@startrescue.org
(Please write “UNDERDOGS” in the memo)

Snail Mail:
S.T.A.R.T
PO Box 4792
Valley Village,
CA 91617
(Please write “UNDERDOGS” in the memo)

This is Shadow/Kaya from the Santa Paula shelter, sent by Rene to Luvabull. Her new home is working out so far!

Shadow with her new kids…!

Liesl

Its been a long time coming but we just got an update from Liesl @ Luv A Bull and Sweet Bailey from our East Valley Dec 2012 transport was adopted over the weekend!!!

Here is an update from Liesl as well as some photos of Bailey with his new family

Bailey is the dog from East Valley who was kept alive there for a VERY long time until we were able to take him here.

The couple came to meet him Saturday and I thought the visit went great, and Sunday, Jeremy drove an hour to their home with Bailey to do the home visit.

So far, so good. As I’ve told you, I think Bailey has a wonderful temperament – he’s just a handful!

Will keep you posted on things!
-Liesl

Hi everyone,
START is trying to help these 5 sad dogs and 8 pups make it out the CA shelter system alive. These “UNDERDOGS” are in DANGER.
If you can help us to help them by donating we would be very grateful, as this little rescue endeavor will be quite expensive.

PIT MAMMA AND BABIES (ID# A420102) AT THE MORENO VALLEY SHELTER HAVE UNTIL END OF DAY, TUESDAY APRIL 2 OR THEY WILL BE DESTROYED AS PER THE SHELTER SUPERVISOR. MAMMA AND BABIES WERE FOUND ON THE STREET. MAMMA IS A 3 YR PEOPLE / DOG FRIENDLY PIT. SHELTER DESCRIBES HER AS A TOTAL SWEETHEART! AND THE BABIES ARE ONLY 1 MONTH OLD. THEY ARE LIVING ON CONCRETE AND ARE FIGHTING FOR THEIR LIVES. IT’S JUST WRONG.

MACY ID# A1376369 IS A 12 YR. BLIND TERRIER DUMPED AT THE EAST VALLEY SHELTER. SHE LIVES IN A WORLD OF DARKNESS AND NOISE THAT SCARES HER. SHE’S IN ISO AND NEVER SEEN BY THE PUBLIC. VOLUNTEERS ARE NOT ALLOWED BACK IN ISO SO SHE RARELY GETS HUMAN CONTACT. WHEN SHE FIRST ARRIVED – HER FUR WAS VERY MATTED COVERED IN FLEAS. THE SHELTER GROOMED HER BUT SHE STILL HAS PATCHES OF MISSING FUR DUE TO BEING COVERED IN FLEAS. SHE HAS A LOVING AND SWEET SPIRIT & DOES NOT WANT TO DIE IN THE LONELY SHELTER.

KINKO ID # A1377086 IS A 12 YR. MALTESE MIX LIVING IN THE CAGE NEXT TO MACY. HE WAS SO MATTED WHEN HE GOT DUMPED THAT HE COULDN’T WALK DUE TO NOT SEEING WHERE HE WAS GOING. HE’S A FRAGILE BOY. HAS EYESIGHT PROBLEMS AND HIS LEGS BUCKLE FROM TIME TO TIME. BUT KINKO IS SUCH A GENTLE AND LOVING BOY. LIKES TO BE HELD AND LIKES TO STROLL AROUND ON THE GRASS. HE PRANCES ALONG WHEN HE WALKS…HE IS A SWEET SOUL. KINKO LIVES ON CONCRETE. DOES NOT GET TO FEEL THE WARM RAYS OF THE SUN OR BREATHE FRESH AIR.

RUDY ID# A1375172 IS A 3 YR. BLACK PIT AT THE E. VALLEY LA SHELTER. TOTALLY OVERLOOKED AND HAS LED A HARD LIFE. HE HAS SCARS ALL OVER HIS BODY AND HIS TONGUE HAS BEEN SHREDDED/TORN IN HALF. RUDY MAY HAVE BEEN USED AS A BAIT DOG BUT STILL LOVES EVERYONE & SITS FOR TREATS. HE HAS BEEN AT THE SHELTER GOING ON 2 MONTHS AND JUST SITS IN HIS CAGE AND WAITS FOR A MIRACLE.

MADDEN ID # A1379034 IS A 9 MONTH BLACK PIT AT THE E. VALLEY SHELTER WHO IS SPENDING HIS PUPPYHOOD LOCKED IN A CAGE. HE’S A SWEET, CHUBBY & PLAYFUL PUP!! LOVES EVERYONE – GIVES KISSES & ENJOYS JUST CUDDLING. HE’S SO GENTLE AND DOCILE & WILL CRAWL IN YOUR LAP FOR SNUGGLES. HE’S JUST A BABY WHO MAY END HIS SHORT LIFE IN THE SHELTER.
(VIDEO OF PIT PUPPY MADDEN AND RUDY BOY PLAYING/PITS IN NEED AT E. VALLEY LA SHELTER)

PLEASE NOTE: I am no longer taking pledges but taking donations directly.

If you’d like to be a part of helping START save these precious lives please see the donation info below.

DONATION INFO for “THE UNDERDOGS”
Pay Pal:
Donations@startrescue.org
(Please write “UNDERDOGS” in the memo)

Snail Mail:
S.T.A.R.T
PO Box 4792
Valley Village,
CA 91617
(Please write “UNDERDOGS” in the memo)

If for some reason any of these dogs are adopted or euthanized we will rescue others in their place.

Thank you all for supporting our efforts, we couldn’t do this without you!
Steve & The START Rescue team
www.STARTrescue.org

Below are the sad stories of the UNDERDOGS.

by Alicia Graef March 29, 2013 4:00 pm
Read more HERE

The SPCA Serving Erie County in New York hopes to dispel common myths about pit bull terriers and show the world what they’re really born to do with its new Bred to Love campaign.

“Pit bull terriers are a severely misunderstood breed. The SPCA Serving Erie County’s goal is to educate and bring awareness to this issue in our community. The Bred To Love program’s main purpose is to put an end to the myths surrounding this amazing and loving breed. Pit bull terriers are loyal happy go lucky dogs that just adore people and will make a wonderful addition to a family looking for their new pal,” said Lindsay Guiher, a volunteer at the shelter.

According to Guiher, most of the dogs coming into the shelter are pit bulls who take longer to adopt than other breeds, which they suspect has to do with common myths surrounding the breed.

Some of these myths include the beliefs that pit bulls have locking jaws and are more likely to bite than other breeds. To clear that first one up once and for all, pit bulls do not have any anatomical mechanism that would cause or allow their jaws to lock. No dog does. And while pit bulls still get a lot of bad press, they’re no more likely to bite someone than any other breed.

The American Temperament Testing Society (ATTS), an organization that promotes uniform temperament testing, has found that the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier and Staffordshire Terrier all had a higher than average passing score, which is 83 percent, and did better than many other breeds, including Golden Retrievers, when it comes to stability, aggression and friendliness, among other traits.

Even the AVMA has stated that despite the stigma, when it comes to pit bull type dogs “controlled studies have not identified this breed group as disproportionately dangerous.”

In fact, pit bulls used to be referred to as the perfect “nanny dogs” for children because of their fantastic temperaments and were used to represent America on WWI posters because of their loyalty, bravery and determination. Even Helen Keller had one.

“As any responsible owner knows, it’s not these sweet and loyal animals that are the problem, but rather a handful of self-serving and unethical breeders. Raised in the right environment, pit bull terriers are naturally inclined to be wonderful pets, sure to steal your heart!” according to the shelter.

Along with urging people to consider adding one to the family, the SPCA Serving Erie County wants everyone who loves pit bulls to join the campaign by submitting a photo showing the world what their dogs were born to do. So far, they’ve got people showing off pit bulls who were bred to give kisses, be loved, be best friends, protect, be loyal, brighten lives and be family, along with a few who were born to cuddle.

If you want to join the campaign and help spread the truth about pit bulls, visit their website, download and print a sign and fill in the blank: Bred to _____, and take some pictures. You can then submit your images via their website, which will be shared in an album on their Facebook page.

Read more: http://www.care2.com/causes/heres-what-pit-bulls-are-really-bred-to-do.html#ixzz2PKrS1fnb

LANI is 1 year old, spayed, microchipped, vaccinated and appears to be a Lab/German Shepherd mix, about 45 lbs, SUPER sweet, and… DYING FOR A HOME THAT CAN GIVE HER ATTENTION and some basic puppy training. A rescue is a much better life and would give her the chance to be adopted.

A dog trainer has visited Lani and found her to be very sweet and smart. She is an exuberant puppy and just needs some basic training, love and attention. When we spent time with her she enjoyed being calm and relaxing on the grass with us. She was very friendly towards my dog, Oso. We took them for a walk together and she was very good but also strong on the leash. She has been exposed to cats in her owner’s home. She likes to chase them but is not interested in catching them. The owner has not exposed her to children because although she is sweet, they are afraid she will jump and knock the kids down.

Please view Lani’s videos below.

We hope you can help Lani find the home and life she deserves. Thank You!

Check out these amazing START updates from the archives:

Thelma and Louise Oct 1, 2011

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=218544161542168&set=a.218544081542176.57536.218212958241955&type=3&theater

Angel puppy born without back paws Oct 30 2011

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=231865143543403&set=a.231865136876737.60709.218212958241955&type=3&theater

Juno Nov 2 2011

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.233162363413681.61101.218212958241955&type=3

Mama Cass and babies 11.3.11

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=233497903380127&set=a.233497876713463.61167.218212958241955&type=3&theater

Theresa 11.7.11

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=233497903380127&set=a.233497876713463.61167.218212958241955&type=3&theater

Bob and Irene 11.7.11

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.238401336223117.62138.218212958241955&type=3

Evidence dog and her 11 pups 11.15.11

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.239649492764968.62318.218212958241955&type=3

Kelowna BC Updates 11.20.11

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.241994555863795.62712.218212958241955&type=3

Maggie 1.19.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.278653962197854.69988.218212958241955&type=3

Daisy Duke 1.12.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.274016589328258.68961.218212958241955&type=3

Lucky 1.12.12.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.274006702662580.68958.218212958241955&type=3

Cody 1.23.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.281307265265857.70575.218212958241955&type=3

Lancaster labs 3.4.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.311218995608017.75934.218212958241955&type=3

Bruno Lancaster lab 3.8 12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.313542652042318.76332.218212958241955&type=3

Sadie Lynn 3.12.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.316408105089106.77019.218212958241955&type=3

Sonny 3.32.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.328217813908135.79844.218212958241955&type=3

Bella 5.3.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.329050200491563.80047.218212958241955&type=3

Angus 6.18.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.381789468550969.90319.218212958241955&type=3

Molly 6.15.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.380094322053817.89858.218212958241955&type=3

Bernie 6.10.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.377387632324486.89178.218212958241955&type=3

Sacha and Rupert 6.28.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.377387632324486.89178.218212958241955&type=3

Ginger and Pit puppy 6.25.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.385620031501246.91180.218212958241955&type=3

Kalvin, Portia and Petey 6.25.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.385362971526952.91142.218212958241955&type=3

Brandy and Precious 7.6.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.391532050910044.92630.218212958241955&type=3

Kimmy 6.17.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.381101991953050.90159.218212958241955&type=3

Marlow 6.29.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.387678201295429.91663.218212958241955&type=3

Handsome and Chi mom and pups 7.22.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.397602176969698.94481.218212958241955&type=3

Penelope 8.3.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.402126733183909.95773.218212958241955&type=3

Avery 8.12.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.396147053781877.94042.218212958241955&type=3

Belle and Penny 8.20.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.408174952579087.97657.218212958241955&type=3

Emma 8.21.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.408456499217599.97727.218212958241955&type=3

Demi and Kalvin from Riverside 8.27.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.410793398983909.98476.218212958241955&type=3

Josie 9.7.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.410793398983909.98476.218212958241955&type=3

Jerry of Ben and Jerry 9.20.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.420469098016339.101108.218212958241955&type=3

Lion 9.25.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.422307694499146.101685.218212958241955&type=3

Happy Beginnings 9.25.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.422552121141370.101752.218212958241955&type=3

Rex (incorrect name on the title of MAX) 9.26.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.422753134454602.101808.218212958241955&type=3

Happy Happy Beginnings 9.27.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.423081471088435.101906.218212958241955&type=3

Juliet and babies 10.11.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.428778403852075.103339.218212958241955&type=3

Follow ups 10.12.12.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.429312900465292.103478.218212958241955&type=3

Buddy and Guy 1.15.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.430355770361005.103769.218212958241955&type=3

Oogly 1.16.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.430787260317856.103886.218212958241955&type=3

Princess, Dee Dee and Lucy 10.28.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.430787260317856.103886.218212958241955&type=3

>
> Stanley 10.24.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.434019729994609.104698.218212958241955&type=3

Update on Nov transport 11.27.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.438193062910609.105658.218212958241955&type=3

More updates from Nov Transport 11.13.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.442535719143010.106654.218212958241955&type=3

Bruno 11.14.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.443212565741992.106776.218212958241955&type=3

Austin and family 11.14.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.443234642406451.106783.218212958241955&type=3

Wild Bill & TeeTotal, Tally and Milo 11.16.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.443999232329992.106927.218212958241955&type=3

Riverside mom and pups 11.17.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.444265655636683.106965.218212958241955&type=3

Sterling 11.19.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.445077058888876.107099.218212958241955&type=3

Tripod 11.21.12

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=435311479865434&set=a.435311213198794.104990.218212958241955&type=3&theater

One of 3 moms at Luv a Bulls 10.26.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.434834476579801.104890.218212958241955&type=3

Thanksgiving message 11.22.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.446318655431383.107307.218212958241955&type=3

Duke, Fred & Ginger 11.28.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.449320641797851.107909.218212958241955&type=3

Update on Nov Transport 12.4.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.451802364883012.108346.218212958241955&type=3

Updates from Willamette 12.16.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.457394234323825.109399.218212958241955&type=3

Downey 12.16.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.457396974323551.109401.218212958241955&type=3

Nyah 12.23.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.461204907276091.110117.218212958241955&type=3

More Happy Tails 12.27.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.463491503714098.110523.218212958241955&type=3

Mary Tyler Moo 12.30.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.464851196911462.110752.218212958241955&type=3

>
> Last update for 2012 12.31.12

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.465564120173503.110891.218212958241955&type=3

Princess from SBC 1.6.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.468398409890074.111414.218212958241955&type=3

Chase from SBC 1.8.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.469549849774930.111667.218212958241955&type=3

Another Princess update(different Princess) 1.13.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.471781916218390.112058.218212958241955&type=3

Update from Save a Pet 1.20.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.475662902496958.112622.218212958241955&type=3

Update from our Oregon Dog Rescues 1.20.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.475660942497154.112619.218212958241955&type=3

Updates from our Riverside transport 1.20.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.475743479155567.112632.218212958241955&type=3

Norman 1.25.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.478045642258684.113022.218212958241955&type=3

Miss Juliet 1.26.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.478324872230761.113085.218212958241955&type=3

More transport updates 1.29.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.479940342069214.113279.218212958241955&type=3

Mason and Angelina 1.23.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.485439811519267.113579.218212958241955&type=3

Popeye 2.3.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.486002241463024.113628.218212958241955&type=3

Huckleberry 2.9.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.489178057812109.114014.218212958241955&type=3

Huckleberry and Titus 2.10.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.489940711069177.114094.218212958241955&type=3

Update on Huckleberry 2.27.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.500483653348216.115219.218212958241955&type=3

Champ (one of Rosies pups) 2.10.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.489778551085393.114080.218212958241955&type=3

Bonnie now called Bunnie 2.21.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.496981417031773.114834.218212958241955&type=3

> Rosie Adopted Valentines day 2.14.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.492497787480136.114396.218212958241955&type=3

Apple 2.19.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.495979830465265.114714.218212958241955&type=3

Gina 2.25.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.499936250069623.115153.218212958241955&type=3

Midnight and Riley 2.27.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.500620680001180.115238.218212958241955&type=3

Riley

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=515283475201567&set=pb.218212958241955.-2207520000.1364748781&type=3&theater

Sandy 3.1.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.499596046770310.115119.218212958241955&type=3

Rockstard now called Castor 3.6.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.505901922806389.1073741831.218212958241955&type=3

Nanny 3.17.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.513284605401454.1073741836.218212958241955&type=3

Honey 3.19.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.514347908628457.1073741838.218212958241955&type=3

Star 3.19.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.514612735268641.1073741840.218212958241955&type=3

Update from Luv a bull 3.24.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.517633998299848.1073741843.218212958241955&type=3

Teddy and Tahoe 3.27.13

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.519536938109554.1073741844.218212958241955&type=3

Videos

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=vb.218212958241955&type=2

It’s amazing what a little time and TLC can do for animals who are stuck unknowingly awaiting their fate at shelters all around the world. It’s the little things like caring enough to groom the unwanted pets, love on them, and to just CARE for them.That’s why START is happy to update everyone with a small victory for our 4 legged friends from our 3.20.13 transport.

The dogs below awaited their fate filled with sadness and stress at the shelter in CA, but within 72 hours their lives transformed and they are now safe, happy, and filled with love.

Two of the dogs were rescued from the Stockton shelter in CA, and ended up with Luv-A-Bull in Eugene, Oregon. The third dog, which was a DAY AWAY from being euthanized came from the East Valley shelter in CA and is now at RAIN RESCUE in Oregon. The other two dogs came from the Riverside Shelter and are now at S/NIPPED in oregon. Check out their pictures below

Meet HENRY, the lovable pittie from EV shelter. Can you believe this little guy was less than 24 hours away from being euthanized?!!!

Now THIS is Henry happy with a very FULL and Loving life ahead!

Both seniors are safe
TEDDY was so sad at the East Valley shelter and TAHOE was confused. Both dogs were found as strays and probably dumped as they were old with medical problems.

We know we cannot help the amount of dogs/cats we would like to but we do our best to provide everything we can for the ones we are fortunate enough to help.

BOTH dogs got on a small transport this morning and on their way to new lives.

TEDDY is going to MY WAY HOME RESCUE in Oregon and TAHOE is going to HOPES HAVEN in Oregon.

BIG Thanks to Wendy & Victoria.

Thought you would all like this picture of a violent and aggressive pit bull… it’s safe it’s cute and it’s true

Friends: An important petition to Brenda Barnett, LA Animal Services General Manager, is worth taking the time to sign and to forward to any other friends who support animal welfare by email or social media to expand your impact. The letter specifically requests that LA Animal Services reinstate volunteer coordinators and expand the volunteer/training program.

Volunteers have had a tremendously positive impact on our underfunded shelter system in the LA area – improving the quality of life of shelter animals and greatly increasing the chance that animals are adopted rather than euthanized. Now is NOT the time to impede these programs that are so desperately needed by our homeless pet population.

You can find the petition at:

http://www.change.org/petitions/brenda-barnette-la-animal-services-reinstate-volunteer-coordinators-expand-volunteer-training-program-3

The ASPCA is currently providing shelter, veterinary services and other care to nearly 100 dogs rescued last weekend in a three-state, federal dog fighting raid in Missouri, Kansas and Texas.

A search warrant was executed Saturday night in Kansas after the FBI raided a location suspected of holding a contract dog fight in north Texas. The ASPCA, with the help of local agencies, assisted in the seizure of the dogs in Texas and two locations in Kansas. Two additional warrants were served Sunday morning, resulting in the removal of the dogs in Missouri, where the victims were found chained outdoors in freezing temperatures.

We’ll have more information on these resilient dogs soon, but for now: Know that these dogs are finally safe and will never face a fight again.

Sadly, untold numbers are still suffering, and the ASPCA is doing our utmost to stop dog fighters and perpetrators of bloodsports everywhere.

Help us be a hero for these dogs—and countless others—and help us continue to fight animal cruelty across the country.

Hey everyone,

We have two very happy rescue stories we wanted to share with everyone tonight.

Sterling’s story:
Sterling was an abused dog that was pulled out of the trunk of a car along with another dog and dumped off at South LA Shelter. Sadly, the other dog was later euthanized due to the terrible shape she was in.
Sterling was very scared, shy, and closed down but luckily Yuana from DHANA METTA RESCUE in Canada stepped in and cared for Sterling.
Sterling is now one VERY happy and confident boy. He is walking on a leash and has a blast with Yuana at the house. After several months of rehab Sterling is now ready for his forever home.

Teddy’s story:
Teddy is the sad German Shepherd from the East Valley Shelter who was abandoned and found wondering the streets.
Thankfully, he was able to be apart of a mini transport to MY WAY HOME RESCUE on Wednesday and is now happy at a foster awaiting his adoption. START is very happy for TEDDY and hope he grows younger by the day!

It’s small miracles like these that brighten our day and help to keep our spirits alive.

Best,
Steve & THE START TEAM
www.STARTrescue.org

If you would like to make a difference for animals like Teddy and Sterling every month of the year subscribe for our recurring donation.
-Or-
If you are not able to make a monthly commitment please make a single donation.

Every gift saves lives.

Team members Ray and Celeste were looking to adopt another doggie and had inquired with their apt manager to see if there were any breed restrictions and of course there was…no pitty’s. They learned this after seeing this sweet girl at the Devore Shelter where they knew she had no chance….They couldn’t let her die so today they made the 2hr drive to Devore and with the help of Steve Spiro, Rene Ruston, Bridget @ Big Dawgs Rescue, Cheryl Meyer, Estella Holland and Lisa Robertt they were able to save her. They are going to do their best to keep her but if they can not….they are going to personally see to it that she gets the most amazing home as she deserves it!!!

Jersey Girl Video 1

Jersey Girl Video 2

Jersey Girl Video 3

Here is an update from Ray and Celeste…They named her Jersey Girl…we think she is a Shar-Pei/pit mix..What do you think? She has the most amazing personality. Very subservient, calm and lovable. She walks great on a leash, is calm and relaxed in the bath and while being groomed. She gets along great with other dogs and even cats! She loves to give kisses and snuggle. She knows how to sit, stay, lay down and listens and obeys very well. We even think she is housebroken as no accidents in the house. We just knew she was special and we were right!! Here are some pics and video of the fabulous Jersey Girl.

If you live locally in SoCal and are interested in adopting Jersey Girl, contact Celeste.Stoney (at) gmail (dot) (com)

Jersey Girl still needs a vet visit, a few shots, micro chip and needs to get spayed. If you would like to donate to Jersey Girls care, please send donations via PayPal to Donations@StartRescue.org and put Jersey Girl in the memo. Thank you!!!

We are trying to help Network Bailey…Bailey is currently in THE Eugene OR area. If you live in OR or in the SoCal area and are interested in adopting Bailey…Please email celeste.stoney (at) gmail (dot) (com)

Here is his photo (below) and bio from Liesl @ Luv-A-Bull:

He is an AWESOME dog… NO ISSUES. Great with all people, great with other dogs, too. Sweet, sweet, sweet. You know how picky I am about dogs, and I have not one bad thing to say about Bailey, except that he is “a lot of dog” but not in a bad way… ! He is just going to be tough to adopt due to his size, breed, goofiness etc. but he needs a little training.

WATCH BAILEY’S VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGNacnOywQ0

Liesl

Here is an update from R.A.I.N Rescue:

Princess came up on START’S most recent transport and made her way to our adoption event on Saturday. Her owner says love at first sight. Princess came from a shelter/stray and now is the “princess” of their home. Welcome to Washington little Princess.

By: Scott Stump

When Ben was separated from the love of his life, the mixed German shepherd showed there was no distance too far that would prevent him from reuniting with her.

Separated from the mother of his children after he was adopted from the Terre Haute (Ind.) Humane Society, Ben went on a 10-mile trek in the middle of winter to find his way back to Jade, a 1-year-old mixed German shepherd.

On Dec. 28, the 4 1/2-year-old, 70-pound dog ran away from owners Courtney and Jason Lawler and traveled across a wooded landscape in freezing temperatures to return to the Humane Society shelter, where Jade was still living.

After finding out about Ben’s remarkable journey and seeing the strong bond between the two dogs, the Lawlers decided to bring Jade home as well.

“It was amazing,’’ Courtney Lawler told TODAY.com. “I was really shocked because we thought he was still in our area when he got away, and he walked 10 miles away from us. We knew that they had been caught together (by the Humane Society) and that they stayed together (before Ben was adopted), but we didn’t realize how strong of a bond they had.’’

“We do have the occasional dog that will come back from not very far away, but 10 miles is a pretty good distance and that was some pretty rough territory that dog would have to go through,’’ Jacob Harrod, an adoption counselor at the Terre Haute Humane Society, told TODAY.com. “There’s never been anything like this that’s happened here before.’’

Ben had previously run away twice from the Humane Society shelter and returned, which may explain how he knew to find the place from the Lawlers’ home, according to Harrod.

The bond between the dogs made the Lawlers realize that if they wanted to avoid Ben continually running away, they would have to adopt Jade. In the first week of January, they added her to their home, which also includes their 3-year-old son.

“We think that since (Ben) did this, he won’t be happy unless he has her and will keep looking for a way to get loose and come back to her,’’ Lawler said. “We thought, ‘If this is going to keep happening, we can’t leave without her.’ Everything’s been pretty good since we brought them both home.’’

The shelter took in the two dogs when they were strays last summer, after Jade became pregnant with six puppies, which eventually found homes through the shelter.

Even after Ben ran away from the Lawlers and returned to see Jade at the shelter, it took employees a lot of effort to catch him.

“It took them over a day to actually catch him because he was being smart,’’ Lawler said. “They had Jade in a penned-in area outside the building where dogs go to exercise, but he knew if he went in, they would close the gate, so he stayed outside the gate. They had to use a (tranquilizer) dart gun as a last resort and still ended up having to track him on foot for hours before he got groggy enough to slow down.’’

A few days later, the Lawlers returned and decided to adopt Jade as well, bringing home both dogs. Though the canine duo was initially very skittish around humans, taking four months before they allowed anyone to pet them at the shelter, they are definitely warming up to their new owners.

“They’ve been pretty confident around our son,” Lawler said. “He’s been doing very well around them after we taught him at first to know when to back off. We give them attention and give them time to let them know they can roam around the house, and hopefully they will continue to open up.’’

Hello Everyone here is another update from Luv-A-Bull on the 2 bonded dogs from Stockton–

Here are a few photos of the pups at LUVABULL and a link to a video my friend Kelsey made of them when they first arrived, just being their goofy, happy selves.

They are both amazing dogs. So sad to imagine that they almost didn’t make it, and so many do not… We love them soooo much! They are wonderful dogs!

Here is a video- CLICK HERE

Liesl
Luv-a-Bull

Remember Henry??? Here is an update from RAIN Rescue.

Just wanted to let you know Henry made it to us today.. He is a nice dog! Very big..maybe American bull dog.. He is staying in a foster home for now and I will see him Saturday at our adoption event. We are bringing him to the vet tomorrow, to check out that skin condition on his nose etc. He is good boy and was great around the chihuahuas.. not sure about cats yet but that will be determined. I got to take him for a couple walks today and he is pretty strong on the leash (I am only 5’2″) but once I got his attention he settled down next to me and was very good.

We will find a good home for him. Sorry I forgot to take a picture but will do so this Saturday when his foster mom brings him in for the adoption event for a couple hours.

Thanks!

Denise
RAIN Rescue

Hello Everyone –

Remember Kaya (AKA Shadow)? Let’s hope this is another happy ending! Below is an update from Mandy and Jeremy, who took Shadow into their home and have been working so much with her.

Shadow HAS BEEN ADOPTED… J Photos below of Shadow (now named Kaya) with her new family. This is a local adoption, and Mandy and Jeremy and Luv-a-Bull will continue to provide support and advice, as needed, and will also take Shadow back should things not work out.

Liesl
Luv-a-Bull…………………….

Hello,

I spoke with Kaya’s family today and she’s still going strong! I wanted to make sure the people in CA who love her, and paid for us to work with her, would like to know how she did.

After week one Kaya we had her fully intergrated into our home. She went on daily bike rides and walks. She was a serious cat chaser, which could be dangerous in the wrong hands. So Jeremy spent 4 sessions a day on cat training on leash. She also redirected on my dogs twice, causing some punctures but she stopped the second we commanded her too. We realized she is a resource guarder. So she had serious training around toys, food, and even water. She learned so fast, we were amazed by how easy she was to teach new behaviors.

Kaya came to school daily to pick kids up and met several kids and families. We noticed how she attracted people to her within minutes of entering a group of people. She became quite popular very quickly!! Jeremy took Kaya on daily play group sessions with dogs of all sizes. He wanted to teach her how to be appropriate with small dogs. She would hunt the little dogs at first and try to get to them. But after ONE DAY she learned that was not acceptable and had many little dog friends. Kaya learned sit, down, stay, come, shake, out of the kitchen, crate up, and nose 5!

We decided she was adoptable and ready to go. We wanted her to be part of a family since she loves kids so much. We felt due to her redirection issues, and the lack of time given prior to her reactions, a single dog home would be best. The one application that stood out was the home with no dogs and two girls. Mom is home most of the day, they are very active and want a jogging partner, Dad wants a dog to go on road trips with their family and enjoy the great outdoors. They have no cats, and no family members with dogs. She is the center of their world. On their first meet up, Kaya went to them and laid at their feet for a belly rub. She’s usually reserved when meeting new people. But…Kaya KNEW this was her family. She gave kisses, did tricks, was ever so gentle with the kids, and wouldn’t leave their feet. We spent time with the family on walks, discussing how to react to her if she tries to chase cats. We also went over the possibility of dog redirection. They feel 100% confident they won’t have an issue since they do not have other dogs in their lives. They fell in love with her and will do anything to make her happy. Our second visit she walked around their neighborhood and she was tuned into her people, she got that she had to be polite with this family too.

After the home check, where she has a BIG, BEAUTIFUL, back yard and a gorgeous house complete wither own snugly bed, new toys, quality food, and a doggy pool for the summer time. She is in heaven!!
–
I do want to Thank you for giving Kaya (AKA Shadow) a second chance. I’m so very glad we took her in and tuned her up. She needed it, that is for sure, and she deserved it even more. Another happy ending for a Luv-a-Bull Pitty, we couldn’t be happier.

Mandy

UPDATE from Liesl @ Luv A Bull on the 2 dogs from Stockton that START transported on our last transoprt.

Hello Everyone!!! May and Spice, the Stockton Bullies, arrived in Eugene about 9am this morning…

I’m waiting on the good photographers in my group to email me their pictures of the pups out at LUVABULL… I will get those out to you guys later.

But here are a few pictures from the transfer this morning…

We are all so incredibly relieved and grateful that they finally made it! They had a walk together and are eating, had meds, and have a great little cottage all to themselves. We are totally in love with them… Yes, Spice is gorgeous and the girl is just adorable… what a pair. And YES, we will adopt them together, I can’t imagine them being separated. This is much hard to accomplish, but once in a while we do find people willing to take two dogs…we will sure work hard to find them the BEST POSSIBLE home, TOGETHER.

I can’t thank you all enough for what each of you did to contribute to saving this pair… it sure was a “group effort!” that’s for sure.

I think we’ve taken in a couple of hundred dollars in donations – Pam, please let me know what your vet has charged you for May’s surgeries and how best to pay you back. Paypal? And thank you so much for taking such good care of them while they were at your home, Pam. They look really good, even May, despite the surgeries… she is healing really well! They obviously got a lot of TLC while with you…

THANK YOU !!!!!!!!!! Congratulations, everyone!!!! WE DID IT!!!

More photos to follow!!!
Liesl
Luv-a-Bull Rescue

This is the starved desert dog that was at The Cal City Shelter in CA (almost 100% kill rate) and was brought to our attention by Julie Joseph.

The amazing Vicki and Lori of HANDS PAWS & HEARTS picked her up today and will foster her for us until one of our groups can take her into their facility.

She has had a sad life up until today, but from now on her days will consist of being Spoiled in the morning, spoiled in the afternoon, and spoiled in the evening!

Thank you D & K for making this possible.

Our best to all of you,
Steve & The START TEAM

81 dogs went on our transport today (11 pits)
Most of these dogs would no longer be alive if it wasn’t for the compassion and dedication of our rescue partners, Riverside crew and everyone involved in helping make this happen.
THANK YOU to ALL the volunteers who helped walk dogs today and to Candace and Celeste for organizing this mammoth task month after month.
Sue Zucker ROCKS as does John Welsh and the Riverside Staff.

If you would still live to donate to hep us reach our goal we would be very grateful.

Please Check out ALL of the photos on our Facebook Page- CLICK HERE Be sure to LIKE our page too!!

Check out the Riverside Shelter Facebook page for more photos- CLICK HERE…Dont forget to LIKE their page too

Yay!!! The amazing staff at Safehaven have found Riley the perfect new home!!! From the streets of South Central LA to a loving home in OR.

STAR – the half blinded pup from the San Bernardino City Shelter is out of the shelter and being fostered by Jennifer who LOVES this puppy.
This is one of the saddest rescues we have been involved in and even the Animal Control officer who has worked for 13 years was so touched by this dog that he named her STAR.

She will need to see the vet to get examined to see if she will need surgery or not as some asshole (sub human) beat her over the head.

BUT – that is ALL behind her now and we wish her a GREAT life!

Please say a little prayer for her tonight and THANK YOU to those of you cared about this special soul.

We will provide everything this pup needs to make sure STAR’S light will shine again.

HONEY came from the Baldwin shelter and was brought to our attention by Ric Browde who told us there was a great dog called HONEY who was dumped by her owner because she had a heart murmur. She was 10 months old at the time.
We rescued her as she was such a sweet dog and the vet said she could die within the week or live another 10 years.
Well – 3 years later HONEY is still around enjoying the good life.
She is spoiled rotten and has the BEST family!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HONEY

We have our next Transport out of the Riverside Shelter on Wednesday March 20th 2013 and hope to be sending up around 80 death row dogs who will be getting a brand new start on life. They will be going to our groups in Oregon and Washington State (WA) all listed on our website. (Above are a few pics of some of the 4 legged passengers leaving this Weds)

Every dog on board has a story but here a couple to start with: Two of the pits on board came from the stockton Shelter after being bred countless times and then dumped and left to die. MAYBELLINE (Pictured below) needed eye surgery and has a bad skin condition. Two pits from Riverside HIPPO (aka CHUBBY CHEEKS) & PIGLETT – were bred many times over and when HIPPO went for surgery she almost died from a case of Pyometra. (see pics above) ALL these dogs are going to the fabulous LUV A BULL in Oregon. We could go on and on with the sad stories but the bottom line is these dogs will get a second chance in Oregon and WA.

If you would like to help us continue to make this possible please CLICK on the donation link below. WE COULD NOT CONTINUE THESE LIFE SAVING TRANSPORTS WITHOUT YOU.

If you would like to volunteer and help walk dogs before the load up in Riverside on Weds, please contact Liz who is our volunteer coordinator. Liz@startrescue.org

THANK YOU all for helping us save these precious lives.

THANK YOU!

Our best to all of you,
Steve & The START TEAM

Cassidy was transported to Willamette Humane Society back in December 2012. She is still looking for her forever home. Paws crossed for this baby!!!

Read the FULL Update Here:

START Team board member Rene and her husband Jay were at Target tonight and saw the cutest thing. A sweet pittie girl and her mom riding the escalator. They chased after her (of course!) and got a photo. Louey is a therapy dog and she LOVES to get her picture taken. She even howled for them.

This article is so very touching. We all need give a shout out or just applaud the creativeness of SPARC in getting these two dogs into a forever homes. SPARC was willing to make the effort to save these two dogs, which is seldom what happens in shelters where dogs and cats are treated like cattle (and yes even me a vegetarian can say the word cattle).

Read the FULL STORY HERE

Hello Everyone… Remember Nanny from East Valley??? Here is an Update from Liesl @ Luv A Bull about Nanny!

Well, after a very long time at East Valley Shelter in Los Angeles, and a few months at “Luv-a-Bull” in Oregon, Nanny has finally found her forever home!

The woman of the house, Jane, just retired and will have a lot of time to spend with Nanny and the other dogs. They are renovating a barn on the property in hopes of turning it into some heated kennel space to do some fostering and rescuing on their own for their community of “Shady Cove” in the future. They live near Crater Lake, Oregon in a beautiful area. They have 20 acres, FENCED for dogs.

This is a wonderful couple, who are dedicated to their dogs, and hope to help more dogs. As you can see, Nanny should have a really fun life, and be well cared for.

She is still on med’s for her mange, but is doing ok. We all loved this girl so very much… we could not be happier. — Liesl, Executive Director, LUVABULL OREGON

Watch this video of a Pit bull who saves woman with Alzheimer’s- CLICK HERE

All of Rosie’s Pups are adopted!!! Thank you to everyone that helped save Rosie and her beautiful babies!!!

Here is an update from Tamara @ Snipped:

She doesn’t have her own facebook page, but would love to update you all. She is doing wonderful and “the leg” doesn’t slow her at all. In fact she is so active that she broke her splint last week and it had to be replaced on short notice at another clinic until an aluminum splint arrived. She is having weekly cast changes and doing wonderful. A woman named Nancy has fallen in love with Sandy and been to the clinic often to spend time with her. Sandy was orginially supposed to be adopted by Cindy in Portland when Sandy’s leg is fully healed, but we have her blessing to unite this bonded duo. Nancy is a supporter of S/Nipped and also a friend of ours as well as an already approved adopter of 2 kitties from us. Nancy does have a 13 year old Rottie and this weekend we will do introductions between the two before she takes Sandy home. Nancy will bring Sandy back and forth for her cast changes, well probably will walk back and forth considering she only lives 4 blocks from the clinic.

Sandy will have another xray in 2 more weeks to see how the progress is going with the leg and to make sure the leg is healing as we are suspecting it will. So cross your paws and wag your tail for fabulous xray photos and good news. Adoption photos to follow.
Thank you,
Tamara McCuistion
S/Nipped Chairwoman

HI guys

This FB link is about a dog called OPHELIA.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ophelia-former-Watts-street-dog-looking-for-an-awesome-forever-home/498188690217289?fref=ts

I got an email from a woman call GIna, who I never met before, asking for help with a dog they found in Watts who was continually bred then after they sold her puppies was put back on the street again. (Yes, more nice humans)

START paid for OPHELIA’S spay, vaccinations, chip etc and the vet found out she was pregnant with 8 babies (we aborted) it was very early.

We offered to board OPHELIA (Did not want to take on ANOTHER pit) but as it turned out a friend of Gina’s adopted her today!!!!

Have A Heart Humane Society and Kern County Animal Control are pleased to offer the first of several low cost pet spay, neuter and vaccination clinics planned for Tehachapi.

Following articles in local newspapers in which Have A Heart Humane Society founder/president, Chelley Kitzmiller asked the Tehachapi City Council to allocate $5000 to bring Kern County Animal Control’s mobile spay/neuter unit to Tehachapi, two private donors came forth with a total of $5500. One donor, giving $5000, wishes to remain anonymous. The other, Marvin Sobel, owner of the Orchard Shopping Center on Tucker Road, donated $500 toward the effort. Both donors are committed to helping end the pet over-population crisis.
“We are hopeful that other Tehachapi residents and businesses will want to get involved by donating money to bring an end to Tehachapi’s pet over-population,” says Kitzmiller.
The first spay/neuter clinic is scheduled for Saturday, April 6, 2013 at West Park, 490 West “D” Street (1½ blocks south of K-Mart). Space is limited to approximately 30 pets per clinic date, so reservations are required. The cost of $15 per pet includes spay or neuter, DHPP and Rabies vaccinations, Microchip and county licensing. “It is our hope that this outrageously reasonable price will help Tehachapi’s low income and fixed income pet owners, however, the clinic is open to all Tehachapi residents,” says Kitzmiller.
in addition to the spay/neuter clinic, Have A Heart Humane Society along with Kern County Animal Control will host a vaccination clinic from 9 am to 3 pm, no reservations required. DHPP and FVRCPvaccinations and microchips will be free. Rabies shots will be $5 and pets must be at least four months old. All pets vaccinated for Rabies must also be licensed. The license fee for altered dogs is $15, unaltered $60. All dogs must be securely leashed and cats should be in carriers.
“This is a dream come true for pet rescuers and pet lovers,” says Kitzmiller. “I didn’t know Supervisor Scrivner was working on organizing spay/neuter clinics and he didn’t know I was until the newspaper articles came out. And now, Have A Heart, Supervisor Scrivner, Kern County Animal Control and The Tehachapi Humane Society are all coming together in what I consider to be a historic and monumental effort to save pets’ lives.”
In 2012, 32,565 cats and dogs were taken into Kern County Animals Shelters and 20,094 of those were euthanized. These numbers do not include deceased animals picked up off the streets. Tehachapi contributed 331 cats and dogs to that number, 55 of which were picked up in the City of Tehachapi, the rest in the county. There are no statistics on how many dogs and cats were taken in and given permanent shelter by Tehachapi residents or how many were absorbed by Tehachapi rescues.
Have A Heart’s partner rescue, The Tehachapi Humane Society, will be joining the effort to make these clinics a huge success. “This is way past due in Tehachapi,” says Iris Lehr, Dog Coordinator of the Tehachapi Humane Society. “Having worked with lost and stray animals in this town for five years, I find that about 90% of them are not spayed or neutered.”
Supervisor Scrivner will be hosting a second Tehachapi clinic May 11, another in Mojave and two in Bakersfield (dates and locations to be announced). “It will take a lot of these clinics to make the difference we need,” says Kitzmiller. “It’s time for people to step up and become socially responsible. If Gandhi had lived in Tehachapi, he would have changed his quote to say, “The greatness of Tehachapi and it’s moral progress can be judged by the way its residents and its politicians treat its animals.”
To make a reservation for the April 6 or the May 11 clinic please email Tehachapispay@gmail.com. If you don’t have email, call the Have A Heart Google Voice line at 661-750-2261 and leave a slow, clear message and a number where we can reach you.

Two weeks ago these two boys were alone in the world sleeping and trying to survive on the dangerous streets of South LA.

That has ALL changed now for MIDNITE & RILEY as they settle into their new lives. MIDNITE is with the amazing Liesl of LUV A BULL pit bull rescue in Eugene, Oregon and RILEY is a staff and shelter favorite at SAFE HAVEN.
Both boys sleep without a care in the world.

We HOPE those of you who donated, wrote kind emails and sent good thoughts for these two, know that you have all earned some major Karma points for helping us take two street dogs and turning them into Princes.

WATCH THE MIDNITE VIDEO:

Tamara at Snipped made this for sandy HOW AMAZING

Hi guys,

Lovely update: MINDY & PETE are safe tonight in boarding with Sandy in Lancaster.
These two have spent a combined 5 months in the shelter and will get nothing but love, treats, walks and (a bath) over the next week before heading off to their new lives in WA with Barbara at PUGET SOUND (She has 5 acres for them to enjoy).

THANK YOU all for your kind donations and for making this possible for MINDY & PETE.

Our best to all of you,
Steve & The START TEAM
www.STARTrescue.org

PS – If anyone still wants to donate to our program we are always happy & thankful for cash flow . We couldn’t continue to save their lives without your support!
Thanks again!

Click Here to Watch

Stella Goren is START’S oldest supporter (that we know of)
She was born on June 26, 1921, in New Haven, Conn.
She signed up in 1941 to serve in World War II but they weren’t taking
women yet but in 1943 joined the Marines and went on duty until Dec. 20, 1945. She has three children and at the age of 62 Stella quit working to pursue Her personal interests or painting, sculpting, weaving and Israeli dancing.

At the young age of 79 she joined IN -TRAINING gym in Hollywood where she learned to box with the agreement that she could hit anyone she wanted without any exchanges!!!! (Believe me she hits HARD!!!)
Stella is a huge animal lover, a wonderful mother, grandmother and a great grandmother!
START honors this wonderful inspirational lady who puts a smile on anyone who is lucky to cross her path. (but don’t piss her off as she has mighty left hook!)

With Stan Ward (Former CA Heavyweight Boxing Champ) AND Pictured with Chris DeRose (President of LCA)
(Chris is on the right!)

We paid for the spay & neuters on the chihuahuas she is referring to in this blog. An owner had just a few Chihuahuas many years ago and did not believe in spaying and neutering his dogs… Let’s call him “Mr. Smith”… Mr. Smith started out with 4 or 5 dogs and about 10 years later, ended up with over 200…

Producing, pit bulls and preconceptions

by Jack Leslie

Since a lot of my rescue efforts tend to focus on Pit Bulls, I often get calls from strangers, who need help finding a home for a Pit Bull. Sadly, all I can often do is offer advice since I usually have a full plate and most of the rescues are already over capacity. Quite often, the people who call me have trepidation because of their preconceived notions about the Pit Bull breed.

I think the most important thing I’ve learned from my years working with Pits is to have empathy for groups that are marginalized based on bias and prejudice perpetuated by society and the media. I have to admit that I used to roll my eyes if a particular group complained about its stereotypical treatment at the hands of the media. However, after encountering so much irrational fear and hatred for the breed by people who have never even met a Pit Bull, I better understand the basis for this frustration.
Bear and Jenn

A year or so ago, I was put in contact with Jenn Noble Bauman, a TV producer. Her husband, producer Beau Bauman, was working with a friend of mine, who has also adopted a couple of Pit Bulls, and she told them to call me for some advice about a Pit Bull that they had rescued but could not keep. Jenn is one of those people, who has had a profound connection with the dog in her life. “Our sweet lab, Bear died on February 5th, 2011 at 16 years old. I had him since he was 5 weeks and it broke my heart losing him. After he was gone, I didn’t want to come home ever. Bear was gone, my reason for coming home was gone. I just hated being in an empty house with no wagging tail, no best friend.”

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

This dog was rescued by START on 8.30.12 after the poor boy had his ears chopped off, dumped at East Valley and was saved at the 11th hour. He went on transport to Willamette Humane and had a tough time getting adopted as he was nippy (only nippy with love) but adopters overlooked him. Willamette loved having him there, especially for dog to dog meets during play group.

Eventually, with much love and exercise – a volunteer fell in love with him and decided to adopt him officially.
They said he is a GREAT dog and has many acres to run around on.

MERCY is out of the hospital and wagging her tail to say thank you for all those that sent well wishes and donations. She is happy at her foster home thanks to you! Watch the VIDEO

“SAVING MERCY” – A pit bull tradgedy
by Shannon von Roemer
I received a call from a women in Inglewood late Saturday night about a severely injured dog in the bushes. She said it was a pit bull. I gathered my resources and found a beautiful, beyond sweet young pup suffering with extensive injuries. “Mercy” showed her gratitude with kisses and handing you her paw. Alex at Pet Care Center gathered her medical team and Mercy was transported to her veterinary clinic in S. Central. There it was discovered that her injuries, a crushed paw, a fractured hip and severe skin injuries from being dragged by a car were going to take an extensive hospital stay to put her back together. Mercy was living like that for at least 2 days. She is one of the bravest girls ever!!! Please donate to her fund… “Saving Mercy”

Hi friends,

Please help little Max. He is a teacup Reindeer Chihuahua weighing 4 lbs and
is fighting for his life. He has Parvovirus. The $500.00 donation we’ve
received has been spent and we need help to cover the remaining medical
bills to save his life. We are Musical Truckin Dogs; a rescue group saving
the lives of dogs that we rescue from high kill shelters and we have saved
over 4000 dogs in the last 4 years. Please help us save this one by donating
anything can directly to the vet: Dr Yamaguchi 951-371-7117, they can take a
credit card payment against our account Susanne Spirit Musical Truckin Dogs
or call us direct at 909-208-6889. You can also donate to Rene@rockandrescue.org and they will make payment to the vet on our behalf.

This pregnant mommy was dumped at the Cal City Shelter because she was pregnant The amazing team at Luv A Bull took her in on our last transport and she had her babies!!! Sooo precious. Here is a photo of mom and her new babies. What a GOOD mommy!

SANDY arrived safely with Tamara at SNIPPED in Oregon. (SANDY has never gotten so much attention in her life and she is LOVING it!)
We don’t think the leg will require surgery but the cast will need to be changed regularly and a close eye will need to be kept on the limb.

WATCH SANDY Youtube: (being loved)

THANK YOU so much for supporting SANDY and START and please send your donations to the following address:

Pay Pal:
Donations@startrescue.org
(Please write SANDY) in the memo

Snail mail:
S.T.A.R.T.
PO Box 4792
Valley Village CA 91617
United States

Please support SNIPPED on FACEBOOK click Here

(Please write SANDY) in the memo

Remember as of a week ago both Riley and Midnite were living on the mean streets of South Central, LA, CA and MIDNITE was being abused.

RILEY went to SAFE HAVEN in Albany, Oregon and MIDNITE went to LUV A BULL in Eugene, Oregon.

Here they are getting the first taste of their lives as happy and worry free dogs.

They were rescued by the START TEAM and will NEVER know loneliness again.

Thanks SO MUCH to the wonderful Pit Bull Rescue – LUV A BULL: www.luvabullpitbullrescue.org

and SAFE HAVEN: www.safehavenhumane.com

Look how amazing Midnite looks at his new home Luv A Bull in Oregon. What a STAR!!!

These beautiful photos were taken by Kelly Beal today…

And here is a video of Midnite and Jeremy at Luv-a-Bull yesterday… He is such a great dog!!!

Another VIDEO click HERE

Rosie got ADOPTED see her with her new family! Click HERE TO WATCH

Update from her new family:

Rosie is doing well:) She is still shy with my husband but she is warming up to him slowly. He took her for a short run yesterday (she literally only went for 5 minutes and wanted to come back). He then took all 3 dogs out for a walk last night, and it went well, and I think she preferred being with them rather than on her own. Today however, she is too tired to go on her walk. At least so far. These dogs have been chasing each other around the back yard SO MUCH and let me tell you Rosie is FAST when she gets going! They go outside to play, and they all come in and literally collapse on the floor to rest. It’s great exercise. She now will go outside without me to potty and play as long as her friends are with her.

Monday felt like a step backwards because she wanted to pretty much hide under our bed all day. Then last night I found out why. She was chewing on my slipper and had pulled it under the bed, so I think she was really just going back to it and spent the day enjoying herself. Yesterday and today however, she has been wandering around the house and is not so timid or scared to noises or sudden movement, which is great to see. She is even leaving my side to go explore! I think she is getting comfortable:)

Today she has been in such good spirits and so out there that I have been able to snap some pictures as well as a quick video. Please disregard my messy hair:) I will send a few emails as to not make the emails too large to open. Would love to hear feedback once you see the video and pics:)

Four pix of Huckleberry’s first bath…. and ear cleaning the bath went well he wasn’t digg’n the ear cleaning Now 1 down and 3 more doggies to go!!!

Remember Coco?? She was the poor baby bait pit that was found roaming the street of LA badly injured. Tails of the City Animal Rescue rescued her and now she is doing AMAZING!! One of their volunteers went to the dog park recently and guess who she ran into. . .Coco!!! She looks fantastic! You should have seen her at the park; running around, chasing the ball, playing with all her new friends. It was really great. And her now mom sent us some photos of her at home as well. We wanted to share. . .
You can find Tails of the City Animal Rescue at the following adoption locations:
PETCO / LA BREA
SATURDAYS 1-4PM Dog + Cat Adoptions
SUNDAYS 1-4PM Cat (only) Adoptions
PETCO on 3rd and La Brea (behind the Ralphs).

HEALTHY SPOT / MARINA DEL REY
SUNDAYS 1-5PM Dog (only) Fostering + Adoptions
4718 Lincoln at Mindanao (next to Wahoo’s)

Thank you to everyone that donated, shared, liked, prayed and pledged!!! Now that the boys are 100% safe and on their way to our amazing rescue groups. We ask that if you pledged, that you please make your donations now at our website and be sure to put Midnite and Riley in the memo: http://startrescue.org/donate/

For those of you who don’t know the story, 3 of START Rescue Team members answered a plea to save a poor pitty that had been wandering the streets of south Central Los Angeles. Reports that people were throwing things at him and the sad photo of him curled up in a ball on the side of the road was enough to get them on the streets looking for this baby. While searching they spotted another dog curled up on the side of the road. When they stopped, he came right up to their car and was super affectionate. They couldn’t just leave him…So we named him Riley!!!

They continued to look for the pitty that they originally came to find and just when they were feeling like giving up…there he was. He was in a pack of stray dogs that took off running when they called out to them. As all the other dogs ran off, this pitty stopped and looked at them and then came up to the car as though he knew we they were there to help. The pitty hopped in the car and immediately laid his head on Steve’s lap. This puppy was exhausted, he had such a look of relief on his face. He was found at midnight so they named him Midnite.

Both dogs were not neutered and had no identification. Its unfortunate that in the neighborhood where they were found…there are countless dogs just like them. Both boys were fostered by the START husband wife team, Ray & Celeste for a few days. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect as we learned that one of our amazing rescue groups, Snipped was coming all the way down from Oregon to pick up Sandy on Thursday 2/28. Sandy is the female pitty at East Valley Shelter with the broken arm. We decided, rather than them wait until our 3/20 transport…lets get them to some of our amazing groups so that they can find them forever homes quickly. Luv A Bull, which is like a doggie heaven said they would take Midnite and the awesome team at Safehaven said they would take Riley. Since Snipped was already coming down here and had extra room on the transport, we got them a ride to their new lives. Please take a look at how amazing these rescue groups are, consider donating to them and following them on Facebook. We will as always keep you updated as each of these dogs gets adopted. If you want to know more about the rescue groups that we work with, please visit our site: http://startrescue.org/our-transports/our-partners-up-north/

Snipped is the group that Popeye went to for his eye removal and then the good people at Snipped found him the most amazing home. Visit Popeye’s facebook page to see what an amazing home he now has and how great his eye has healed- CLICK HERE

We spoke to Tamara at Snipped about Sandy’s arm and she said that there is a possibility that her arm wont need the invasive surgery after all. X-rays from when Sandy was 1st admitted at the shelter and then taken again today show new bone growth. It is possible that with weekly castings that a new bone will form which will be a lot less painful for Sandy. We will keep you updated as she arrives at Snipped and has further evaluation by their vet.

We thank you again to everyone that shared this story and helped make it all possible by your donations! We need each and every one of you!!!

Tamara from Snipped told me this today… What we do reminds me of that story that is retold in so many versions about the guy who walks along the beach and throws the stranded starfish back into the ocean. He is asked “Why do you bother? It can’t possibly make a difference when there are so many” he replies “It makes a difference to the starfish”.

10,000 dogs a day are put down, just not these lucky ones!!!

Here is a video of Midnite, Riley and Sandy getting on to the Snipped transport:

THANK YOU!!!

Follow US on Facebook HERE!

Twitter @STARTRescueTeam

“Luv-a-Bull Pit Bull” and “Luv-a-Little” small-breed rescue collaborate with partners in Los Angeles to save exceptional dogs from LA shelters and bring them to our facility in Eugene, Oregon. All dogs receive medical care, are spayed/neutered, groomed, evaluated, and put up for adoption.

www.luvabullpitbullrescue.org

SafeHaven Humane Society is a private non-profit organization that has been serving Linn County and surrounding communities for more than 35 years. In that time, SafeHaven Humane Society has helped to find forever families for 25,000 animals. SafeHaven Humane Society is not affiliated with any other local or national humane society organization nor does it receive any government funding. SafeHaven Humane Society is located at 33071 Hwy 34 SE in Albany . They can be reached by calling 541-928-2789.

http://www.safehavenhumane.org/

S/Nipped, Inc. is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization with a driven mission to end the suffering and euthanasia of healthy adoptable dogs and cats due to over population through education and high quality, low cost, assessable spay and neuter. S/Nipped is also dedicated to improving the lives of feral and stray cat populations through our trap, neuter and return program. S/Nipped’s small no-kill rescue enhances our mission by removing at risk dogs and cats from our shelter system, as space permits. We also provide a safe place for abandoned and medically fragile animals, as
resources permit. Founded on the principle of compassionate care, the organization is committed to assisting the community by helping place animals in healthy, humane surroundings while providing education and information about responsible animal care for all members of the community.

http://snippedandspayed.webs.com/snippedsrescue.htm

Original Facebook Plea:

START Rescue Team members Ray & Celeste saw a post on Fabebook about a poor pitty that had been sleeping on the streets for weeks in a very bad neighborhood of LA. Reports of people throwing things at the dog and the photo of him curled up on the concrete was enough to get them in the car and headed to the streets of South Central to find this baby (Steve also joined the rescue efforts). They searched the dark streets for what seemed like forever and along the way found another dog curled up sleeping on the streets. When they pulled over to say hello to the dog and he jumped up and came over to their car wagging his tale and begging for affection. There was no way that they were going to leave him there. Worried that they would not find the pitty they originally came for, they decided to take one last go around a few more blocks and…THEY FOUND HIM!!! He was running in a pack of dogs and gave chase for a while but as the other dogs ducked through fences Midnite stopped and came over to their car wagging his tale almost to say help me! And there it was 2 dogs rescued off the mean streets of South LA. They have been named Riley (Sheppard) and Midnite (Pitty). They are currently being fostered by Ray and Celeste but they already have 2 dogs and a cat in an apartment so these boys may have to be boarded until we can get them on a START Transport or find them local fosters or adopters. The boys are going to get examined, neutered, vaccinated and microchiped tomorrow. Please help us to network these boys. Our goal is to raise at least $500 per dog for their medical cost and care and hopefully have some left over to send with them to a rescue group or forever home. Please help by putting the amount you wish to donate in the comment section below. Once we reach $500 for each boy, we will ask you to send your donations then via Paypal to our donation email: Donations@Startrescue.org

Should you wish do donate now, THANK YOU and please remember to put MIDNITE & RILEY in the memo field.

Please HELP us so we can help these two boys have a great life and continue to save more. If you are interested in meeting either of the boys for possible fostering or adoption, please email startrescueteam@gmail.com

Here are videos of the boys rescue and of them with other dogs and a cat too so you can see how friendly they are:

Midnite and Riley arrive at their 1st warm bed: http://youtu.be/Wq3avKkuVxQ

Midnite and Riley on a walk together: http://youtu.be/3mVGZ9Nibq4
Riley rescue video: http://youtu.be/e9yXKACLgxw

Riley and small dogs and a cat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDI1akfiYLA

Midnite likes the little dog and kitty. What a sweet boy: http://youtu.be/z_o7MHph2P4

Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter!
www.Facebook.com/STARTRescueTeam
Twitter: @STARTRescueTeam

The post that Ray and Celeste responded to on Facebook:

This mom and babies from Riverside Shelter are doing great at their new fosters! Obviously daddy has some STRONG genes!

Remember Bonnie??

Here is an update from her foster mom:

I just want to THANK EVERYONE who took part in saving this sweet chicklet, it is soo wonderful to be surrounded by such great people!!! Bonnie now Bunny is settling in just fine with my furr gang, so far so good. We went to work today (I own a grooming shop) and Bunny was very good upon meeting new friends!

She is such a happy go lucky gal full of energy! We went for a 2 hr walk along the seawall met a bunch of friends and did very well, some leash training is on schedule lol!! Again just wanted to say thank you to your whole team!! And to Yuana for taking her in! We will be in touch

No more heartache for this gal! Now to find her a perfect family she can grow old with!

Layla went up on our December transport from East Valley Shelter to one of our newest groups RAIN Rescue.

Here is an update from Layla’s forever home:

The pack is doing well. The grumpy little dogs are finally putting up with her on a daily basis although they still are not “playing” as of yet….but we think that is because the little dogs are snobby. Lol.

Layla has been a wonderful addition to our family. She has been working with “let go” “off” for crawling on people when excited) “down” and “leave it” she has mastered feeding time with the other dogs, up, off (off the couch and bed) and sit. She has a great temperament with people outside of our house, we are working on introducing people that come to our house…she is very afraid of people on her property at this time but she is getting better every day. We are also working on other dog introductions as she is not very patient with other animals other than the ones that live with her. Our trainer has helped us a lot in understanding how to keep rules and boundaries for her with positive training method.

We have run into some problems with a few people who do not understand the breed…and are afraid of the way she looks…but that is not Layla’s problem…we are doing our best to educate them and train Layla with perfect lady behavior so that she can be a specimen for her breed that will try and change the opinion of 1 person at a time with her loving ways.

She is AMAZING and has given me a reason, in the midst of the chaos and pain of our life, to get up every morning and smile all day long.

Hey guys… these siblings Xoloitzcuintlis (Mexican Hairless) came from Riverside on January 11th and went to one of our amazing groups, Luv-a-Bull . They turned out to be really amazing puppies! And now they have a wonderful home – together!!!

This is from Liesl at Luv-a-Bull:
Mandy and Jeremy fostered them and said they’re both smart as heck… and really unusual dogs. They use their paws almost like hands and can pick up things… and they wrap their arms around people to hug them. When we got them, they were about 4 months old, and very fearful and cautious about everything. Mandy and Jeremy donated countless hours to training and socializing them and had them live with their own dogs and children to learn how to be in a home… it paid off. They were just adopted today to this sweet family in Portland.

We have really, really enjoyed these two amazing puppies… Here they are with their new family. We realized they very much needed to be adopted together. They are very unusual dogs, unlike other breeds in many ways, and we felt they would really, really be lost without each other… And we found this incredible family to take them from Portland, Oregon. They have an elderly hairless Chinese Crested and an older American Hairless Terrier… So they know about caring for hairless dogs and the special needs they can have. They have been spayed/neutered and are very healthy puppies.

Thanks so much for letting us have them here! I think they will have wonderful lives in the Pacific Northwest!

These are the eight puppies that Dosia gave birth to last night. Two had wandered away from the main group of puppies and were found by employees freezing on the ground. One had stuck its nose through a hole in a blanket, and his nose even became a little swollen because it was stuck in the hole. SPARC employees dutifully saved the cold puppies from freezing to death and revived them. Now Dosia is in her foster home taking wonderful care of her babies. Please consider adopting Dosia or one of her puppies. We are currently taking applications, and they will all be ready to go home in eight weeks!

www.SPARCsaveslives.org

Hi guys,

Here are the first pics of 88 safely delivered dogs, oh yeah, and one Ferret.
These dogs were dumped, neglected, unloved but are now safe with SAVE THE PETS in Oregon.

We hope to have many more updates and want to THANK YOU once again for making this possible.

PS
Our van broke down on the way back so the two drivers hired a rental car and are heading back to LA.

A HUGE THANK YOU to all of you who donate to our transport which celebrated over 3000 animals rescued since May 2011

Here are a few pics Liz, who runs our FB page, took at the load up yesterday. Click HERE to VIEW PHOTOS

86 dogs were on board (9 pits) and one Ferret!

There were a pair of pugs that had been separated who got reunited on transport day and went to LUV A BULL.
Also, there was a little chi who almost didn’t get to go, but HEARTLAND HUMANE said yes to him at the last minute because one of the volunteers at the load up fought for him. The little guy was the sweetest thing and gives hugs and love.

There were so many stories of dogs who almost lost their lives but are getting a second chance today because of the compassion of our Oregon, WA and Canadian groups.

Not to mention we also rescued a Ferret (see pic) who traveled first class.

If you still want to donate we will use it towards saving more lives.

THANK YOU all from the bottom of our hearts and all the dogs (and Ferett) you helped save.

This is one of the dogs you ALL pledged on back on August 30th 2012.

As you can she APPLE is a happy girl now.
She was pregnant at the Riverside Shelter and was in danger of being euthanized because of space. SAFE HAVEN in Oregon said they would take her and she went on a START transport and her puppies were all adopted and shortly after APPLE found her own amazing home with two brothers to go along with it!

She is another small success story in this long battle.

Apple, pregnant in the shelter:

Apple now with her family:

Popeye is doing so great. He got the stitches out of his eye and today he met his brothers and new mommy! He will have an 8 year old and 1 1/2 year old brother doggies to play with and a wonderful mommy to love him forever! We will keep you update. Thank you for helping us save his life! Here is an updated photos! Healing great xoxoxo We love you Popeye

Here are two of the luckiest dogs. HUCKLEBERRY is very happy and TITUS is even happier! They are both doing well and they want to THANK YOU all for saving their lives.

A small victory for our beloved Pitties!!!

Baby Pit Bull Fire, Baby Saves Family From Fire, Baby Wellston Fire, Dog Saves Family From Fire, Evelyn Westenberger, Pit Bull Named Baby Saves Family And Dogs, Pit Bull Oklahoma Wellston Fire, Rhonda Westenberger, Good News

A 10-year-old pit bull named Baby rescued a family and its dogs not once, but twice, during a house fire.

On Tuesday, Rhonda Westenberger and her sister, Evelyn, were sleeping when their Wellston, Okla., home of 17 years began filling with smoke and flames, KOCO reports.

Immediately, their pit bull, Baby, began barking and pounced on them until they woke up.

“There were flames shooting down the hallway,” Westenberger told KOCO in the video above. “If Baby hadn’t woken Evelyn up, I don’t think either one of us would have come out of it.”

The sisters managed to run out, but five dogs were stuck inside the house. Baby rushed back inside and rescued them.

READ the FULL ARTICLE HERE

Here is a very short but sweet video of HUCKLEBERRY after just a few days in his foster home with amazing aunt Liz who has donated LOTS (& lots) of LOVE & TLC.

We have a tail wagging dog!
Huckleberry Video

This is a story that we have been following for a few months….

Coco was found wondering the streets of LA with wounds all over her body! We think she was used as a bait dog. People from all over the country pitched in and got her the medical care she needed and now….SHE JUST GOT ADOPTED!!!

We wish you a life of LOVE and Happiness sweet Coco!!! Here is a photo of darling Coco leaving the vet’s office and on her way to her new home. Boy, did the staff love her there. And as you can tell, she certainly loved them right back! Hugs & kisses all around.

BEFORE PHOTO….

AFTER PHOTO…

Thank you to Tails of the City Animal Rescue for rescuing and caring for Coco!!!
www.tailsofthecityrescue.com

Congratulations! Champ got adopted! Just one more or Rosie’s lucky’s pups to go, “Lucky”

Poor Rosie has still not been adopted and her foster can not keep her past this Wednesday. Please let us know if you can help by fostering Rosie or if you are interested in adopting her…She needs a good home.

Here is the amazing video of her rescue….

Rosie and pups get rescued

I STILL NEED A HOME…This is Lucky

Champs Adoption…

HUCKLEBERRY is settling in slowly with Liz, his foster. He is still very nervous on the walk and we may hire a behaviorist to work with him a little. He has growled at Liz’s dogs when they got too close to her so he may be having a little territorial issues but who can blame him when someone is giving him more love in one day then he’s had in his entire life.

Please see another little video of him and what Liz said about him this morning
Huckleberry Video

I had a surprise waiting for me this morning when I opened his crate he had chewed up his bed… He had a look on his face that broke my heart…. It was like he was expecting me to beat him he was so afraid to come out… but i just left the gate open and he came out eventually tail between his legs… so I didn’t make a big deal of it just said lets go potty and he came with me and realized he wasn’t going to get beat and he did his business and didn’t cower down at all…

Also:

TITUS is safe and sound. Pat picked him up from the Harbor shelter and he stopped by to say hello before he went off to Vicki and Lori’s in Lancaster where he will have a lot of fun. Pics and Video attached.

TITUS VIDEO — a happy free spirit.
Titus Video

Thank you all again for helping us make this possible.

Thought you’d like to hear a bit of good news going into your weekend. HUCKLEBERRY is SAFE & we’ll also be rescuing TITUS.

HUCKLEBERRY got neutered today and Liz and Lynn (Our wonderful volunteers and friends) went to pick HUCKLEBERRY up from the vet and Liz will foster him until he is a happy dog and is either placed into a loving home in LA or is sent to one of our
Receving groups in Oregon or WA.

Please read what Liz wrote about him below under the payment info.

THANK YOU “ALL” for supporting this dog’s journey and we ALSO wanted to share the good news that TITUS did well with other dogs (It was not the temp test off leash as we prefer but we can tell from the video that he is a solid dog) we are waiting to find out when we can get him.
Watch Titus’s VIDEO

Poor Huck…Click HERE to watch Huck’s shelter video…Pre RESCUE

Also “Thank You” Lily, Bella and Karen for your help.

Below is what Liz wrote about HUCKLEBERRY tonight:

Here are some pix of Huck with my pack at home… apologies for the dark pix as my lighting is not the best in my house nor do I know how to work the camera I have … Anyway just wanted you to know Huck did great on the ride home… I had him in a blanket and he was all cuddled up snoring… so cute… when I got to my place he didn’t want to come out he is very timid, so I let my pack of three into the garage and they just jumped into the back set of my car with Huck and everyone was sniffing butts… they all finally got out of the car and into the house… I put some food out for Huck he has no food or toy aggression… My dogs love him and I do believe they will help Huck see that not all humans are bad. I can’t even begin to image his life …. He is just so sweet.. Better pix to come tomorrow… Oh and Huck made himself right at home on the couch…I will get a pic of that as well along with a video …. He just needs to come out of his shell and he will… oh and one other thing Huck’s tail wagged when he saw my pack… I wish I could have captured that moment… next time.

What a heartwarming story…

When I first met Dodger he was pretty beaten up. He was very shy. He had stitches all over and had to wear a cone to keep himself from biting or scratching them. He had on a diaper and his eyes were filled with goop.

Read the full article here: http://positivelite.com/component/zoo/item/gotta-love-dodger

Have you seen the story of Batman!!! Watch this video and see how amazing he is…AMAZING!!! He was hit by a car and left for dead but look at him now!

WATCH the Batman Video

Check out this amazing artist, Lily Elise who release a song called, “This Year” and asked her fans to donate to our rescue to download it!!! Now that is a real ROCK STAR!!!

Check her out here: http://www.lilyelise.com/thank-you-for-your-donations-to-start-rescue/

Four wiggling puppies spilled from the crate into the cage next door, tails waggling and happy yips puncturing the air. I sighed; they’d be snapped up as soon as ‘the people’ came this weekend.

It was a ritual I’d been through so many times I’d lost count. Every Saturday the dog pound opened its doors to ‘the people’, and every weekend many dogs went off to new homes and new lives.

But not me. Apparently I was too old and too sick for anyone want me. But how could I help my age, and this thing I had called diabetes? It wasn’t my fault. Bob, the man I had
lived with for many years hadn’t minded. He called my medication ‘sweetie time’, and pushed it inside a piece of cheese. I knew it was there, of course. But I do like cheese.

Then Bob got sick and went to live with his daughter. That’s when I came here. I missed Bob but hoped I’d find a new home where someone would love me. But that was a long time ago now.

Saturday arrived and in came ‘the people.’ The other dogs barked; standing up, eager to see what was happening. I didn’t bother. No one would want me. They never did.

Sure enough, most people walked past my kennel without a second glance. Those who did stop muttered about my age or illness and walked on. I watched as one by one the puppies were picked up, cuddled, and went off to their new lives.

I closed my eyes, tried to sleep. Then I heard a voice close by.
READ FULL STORY HERE:http://thesouljah.com/the-tail-that-didnt-wag

This was JULIET the porch mom who was living on the steps on someone’s house as a stray. One of her pups fell off the steps and died and there were concerns that bad things would happen to mom and babies if they were not rescued.
After much begging and with the help of Jessica and The Riverside Shelter, the amazing VALHALLA RESCUE in WA took in the whole family and after some rehab and lots of yummy food. JULIET found her forever home.

We are delighted for this dog who we believe along with her babies, hit the doggie JACKPOT!

Scared at the shelter…

Look at me NOW!!!

Need a Smile???

Remember Popeye a 4 month old sweety with the bad eye horribly cropped ears that you all helped us save from Shafter Shelter a few weeks ago?? Well he arrived safely S/Nipped Rescue and he is scheduled to have an enucleation on 2/3 to fix his eye and he will also be neutered.

Snipped reports that he is doing well, having fun and being the most perfect puppy. He loves the other dogs, ALL of them!

Popeye has his on Facebook page to follow his update: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Popeye-the-Pitty/476149735778560

Here is a video of him on his way to Sippped http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=ORqSQL-nDpE

If you pledged to save POPEYE please send in your donations to help pay for his surgeries. Please send the pledges via PayPal @ donations@startrescue.org

Put FOR POPEYE in the memo please

Alternately you can make a donation right here on our website THANK YOU!

IMG_0430

A few more miraculous updates.

The first dog in the photo series is a senior Lab who was dumped at Riverside for being… OLD. (Karma will seek his owners)
He is at the front of the photo and went to HOPES HAVEN FRIENDS in Oregon and I think he has settled in!

The second Photo is of the One eye Chi who was also at the Riverside Shelter and went to HOPES HAVEN FRIENDS. He got adopted by an amazing family (see the pic)

The 3rd and 4th photos are my favorite as they show MARY a pit bull our driver Amy and her amazing friend Betsy helped save from the streets of LA. Here she is in her new home after going to Willamette Humane in Oregon. (The caption was done by the incredible Martha who has the best blog for the dogs at Willamette Humane)

I know we all see so much heartache every day but these put a smile on my sour face.

Rosie’s pups got spayed and neutered at ValleyVetnonprofit.com with our friends Diane Bentz and Dr. Amsel. Like always, the pups received the special loving royal treatment by the whole staff. The pups are now ready to find their forever homes.
Here is a video of their rescue with Eldad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFr8fm_oWNc
Here is their follow up story at their foster home: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvMEtJyoNWY.

Please help us find their forever home.

Jane Garrison got one of the SPARC, Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center dogs featured on Anderson Cooper Live today! Check it out….

http://www.andersoncooper.com/2013/01/30/information-on-how-to-adopt-a-pet/#.UQmC2iMXh6M.mailto

Also below is a great video our very own Rene Ruston made after 46 lucky San Bernardino City Shelter dogs got on a flight with American Airlines to begin new lives at North Shore in New York thanks to the tireless work of Beth Gibson of New Bark Rescue and with the help of Ric Browde and your kind donations.

We wanted to share photos of one of our receiving groups DHANA METTA in Canada. This is a link to her property and where some of the START dogs go to once they leave CA.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/34023781@N07/sets/

The photo below is STERLING, the dog from South LA Shelter in CA, who was pulled out of the trunk of a car like luggage and dumped like trash. Here he is now with Yuana who runs DHANA METTA and he’s just decided to see exactly what is inside a sofa that makes it so comfy!!!

Both ANGELINA and MASON arrived Thursday at Puget Sound, it was reported that they are both sweet dogs and settling in already.They have had quite the week but they now have 5 acres to run around in and will hopefully find forever homes soon. Thank you all again for helping us help them.

Remember Juliet and her pups, the porch mom dog found in the San Bernardino area that went on transport to Valhalla a few months ago??? Look at her now! She is all fat and healthy and the pups are in great homes and now she just got her own foster home this last week…

VIDEO…Juju and her toys. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVOrxIqAyHY

VIDEO…Juju playing fetch. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DyevYyo5BM

NORMAN came from the San BernardinoCity Shelter (SBC) and was found in a school field hog tied, duct taped and left to die.
He was rescued and sent on a START transport to THE WILLAMETTE HUMANE in Oregon.

The Willamette amazing staff and volunteers worked with NORMAN until he felt comfortable and trusting of the humans who failed him and lo and behold he got a GREAT forever home.

As you can see in the pics below, he is living the GOOD life now!!! Happy weekend and another small victory for a dog who had little chance.

Intake photo of NORMAN at The San Bernardino City Shelter (he was hog tied & left to die)

LOOK AT ME NOW!!!! THANK YOU START TEAM and Willamette

Here is the flyer with all of the details for meeting the candidates on February 17.

Please share with your animal activist friends and encourage them to join us!

Riverside County animal officials will converge on the Duroville mobile home park today to begin the long process of removing as many as several hundred stray dogs from the Thermal park.

Loose canines, as many as 150 to 600, have been a problem for years at the dilapidated mobile home park on Pierce Street.

But now that droves of residents are moving to the state-funded Mountain View Estates in Oasis, the need to remove the dogs from Duroville has increased significantly, said Tom Flynn, Duroville’s federal court-appointed receiver.

Mountain View residents are only allowed up to two dogs that weigh no more than 25 pounds, and “therefore, dogs are being left behind,” he said Wednesday.

Nearly 50 families have already moved into the 181-unit park at 68-990 Harrison St. and all Duroville residents are expected to be relocated by May.

Officials say they worry dogs will be left to fend for themselves and develop a pack mentality that endangers them. Read the full article here:

We were contacted by Shafter Critters on Facebook about a sweet 4month old pitty baby named Popeye at Shafter Animal Control that has an injury to his right eye and a cut on the bridge of his nose. The eye can not be saved and will need surgery to remove the eye. If the eye is not removed it will cause him great pain and pressure from the swelling. Popeye also has incorrectly cropped ears and is on the thin side only weighing 20 pounds. He is a very happy boy that is sweet and loving. His injured eye doesn’t stop him from running around and playing. We saw his video and we could not leave him there as the Shafter Shelter was full and since he is injured…he did not have long!!! THis is the video we saw of him in the shelter” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VU_i5yRCSs0

So… our amazing team members The Stoney’s drove up to Shafter, CA and rescued him today. They are fostering him until he hops a flight to one of our amazing rescue groups, Snipped. www.Facebook.com/Snipped. They have offered to do his surgery and find him a forever home! He already has application in waiting for him.

If you pledged to save Popeye…THANK YOU! All pledges will go towards his foster care/vet costs etc. until he can be sent up north and the rest of the pledges for his surgery & aftercare once he gets to Snipped. Now that Popeye is safe, if you pledged or would like to donate…now is the time. Please put “For Popeye” in the memo….very important that you do this so we know where the donation is to go to and so we know how much money to match. Please send the pledges via PayPal @ donations@startrescue.org

Alternately you can make a donation right here on our website! Thank you!!

As you all know, the Mayor of Los Angeles plays a very important part in laws and ordinances governing the protection of domestic pets,zoo animals, and wildlife as well as laws established to protect or prosecute rescuers and animal welfare activists .

The Mayor as you may know, is in charge of appointing and firing members of the Animal Services Commission ( the Commission specifically established to set policy for the LA Dept of Animal Services), hiring and firing the Dept General Manager, and overall sets the tone regarding issues that effect animals, and those citizens that are passionate about protecting them. That’s YOU!

Our present Mayor has shown no interest in providing that protection for either you or the animals you so diligently fight to save. His administration has turned a blind eye to your pleas for more modern life saving shelter policies,public educational programs, and in the not too distant past, abuse at the shelter level to both the animals and the rescuers and volunteers, as well as ( despite the court’s recent ruling that the elephants at our LA zoo have been the subject of overt cruelty and abuse) a complete disinterest in the welfare of those elephants.

Thankfully, the FAILED MAYOR is on his way out.

http://www.google.com/search?q=villaraigosa+on+cover+of+Los+Angeles+magazine&hl=en&client=safari&tbo=u&rls=en&tbm=isch&source=univ&sa=X&ei=PvL-UOiICcGriAK6p4HoBg&ved=0CF8QsAQ&biw=1170&bih=863

Now, you can either choose to allow those special interests that consider animal welfare the bottom of the political food chain to elect a Mayor, who will appoint an administration who is of the same mind, OR help elect one who shares your concerns and will hire pro-active deputies ( maybe one of you????) who will be accessible to both your ideas and passion for a more humane and progressive environment for the animals we love.

THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO PLAY A PART IN THAT CHOICE……………

When the League of Humane Voters presents the candidates who speak about their commitments to animals on Sunday February 17 at the Beverly Garland on Vineland in North Hollywood, from 10 to 2.

PLEASE ATTEND!!!

Hi guys

Remember ANGELINA…She was brought in to the East Valley Shelter emaciated and been there since Dec.
(Here has her video) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9V38w3A-VI

Remember MASON, the sweet friendly black pit at East Valley who has been overlooked and was on the euthanasia list.

Well…..
MASON & ANGELINA have left the shelter!!! They visited Steve for a few quick publicity pics, (They are STARS!!!) and are on their way to Lancaster to their fosters until our next transport on 2/20 where they will be going to the amazing Barbara Wadleigh of PUGET SOUND RESCUE in WA.
www.pugetsoundrescue.org

MASON was so happy and kissy to be alive and free. ANGELINA got spay today so she was a little out of it but I’m sure she will be back to normal in a day or two.

We will keep you all updated with their progress and send your regular updates as always of their journey until they are placed into forever homes.

THANK YOU ALL for making this possible with your kind pledges.

Please PAYPAL your donations to: donations@startrescue.org (PLEASE write MASON & ANGELINA in the memo)

Alternatively you can snail mail checks made our to START and sent to:
PO BOX 4792
Valley Village, CA 91617
(PLEASE write MASON & ANGELINA in the memo)

With much gratitude

Steve & THE (still) INSANE START TEAM

Below is a few of the dogs that will be riding on one of our vans next week to escape euthanasia here in CA.

We are planning on sending up over 160 dogs and cats to begin new lives with one of our 14 receiving groups in Oregon and WA.

The majority will come from Riverside (all the 20 cats we are sending will come from Riverside). We are also taking dogs from Camarillo, Delano, Downey, Harbor and SBC. One of the many dogs we are helping is NORMAN (from San Bernardino City Shelter) he is a Pitbull Mix who was hog tied and dumped in a School field.  He will go to The Willamette Humane. 

We are also helping some homeless dogs, dogs from a hoarding situation and some strays.  ALL WILL BEGIN NEW LIVES.

We are helping many medical need dogs that were already on the euth list but one of our groups offered to help.

We are taking Pits, Chi’s, moms with pups, the broken, the weak and the forgotten.

They will be able to begin fresh and get the second chance they deserve.

They will go up on our Van, an RV, a large SUV and a plane.

Below is our chip and we need YOUR support to make this possible.

http://starttotherescue.chipin.com/huge-riverside-transport-10412

Neglected dog who will begin fresh

Dumped Shepherd who will begin a new life

Best friends who will begin new lives

Kitties who were tossed away – but will find love

Sweet cat who will get a second chance

Back in July, Sidney was on his way to the Euth room at the Lancaster shelter but was saved at the 11th hour.

He went on a START transport to Dhana Metta Rescue in Canada, B.C and now….

He was just chosen to be the “star” in a movie called “A Bride for Christmas” being released this year.

We were told he did so well!!  The animal handlers took him for 3 weeks and trained him to do everything he was supposed to do for his role as Lincoln in the movie.

He is a LLF!

We are pleased to announce that our little group SHELTER TRANSPORT ANIMAL RESCUE TEAM  (S.T.A.R.T.) turns “ONE” on May 24th and in celebration we have arranged a transport out of the San Bernardino City Shelter (which is where our very first transport happened in May 2011)

We will be rescuing between 70-80 dogs on May 24th and on June 8th we will be flying up 40 cats which means that START will have transported over 1500 shelter animals in ONE YEAR.

We are looking to raise $5000 to help these 100+ animals (cost average $50 to save a life)

Please see our chip in below and SPREAD THE WORD.
http://fortheanimals23.chipin.com/start-saving-100-dogscats-for-one-year-anniversary

Welcome to our new website for S.T.A.R.T. rescue! Thanks for visiting and check back often for updates on latest rescue stories, spay/neuter clinics in your area, and to make a donation!