Animal House

Bonnie talks about recent sightings being from last week... I thought there were recent sightings this week, I think on Tues? Were the ones this week not thought to be her? Can anyone say?

Susan,

I can speak for my own investigation of a sighting, but I will leave it to others who have checked out sightings to post information or not as they see fit.

I went to check out a sighting in the Elmont/N. Valley Stream area of Long
Island for Rosa Wednesday (6/7/06). The dog was not Vivi. It was a greyhound
who was the same color but had lighter brindle.

QUESTION FOR GREYHOUND FOLKS: THIS DOG ALSO HAD A RIDGE OF FUR ALONG HIS SPINE LIKE RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS DO. I HAVE NEVER SEEN THIS BEFORE, BUT I DON'T SEE A LOT OF GREYHOUNDS EITHER. HAVE YOU SEEN THIS BEFORE? HE LOOKED LIKE A PUREBRED GREYHOUND AND NOT A MIXED BREED.

A bus driver who saw a flier and
was on the lookout for Vivi reported that he thought he saw her
being walked and going into a house. He also said that they just
had put up a big privacy fence around that yard, so Tina and Rosa
were wondering if they had Vivi and were trying to keep it on the downlow because they didn't want to give her up. I went to
the house and talked to the owner. She said her dog had not gotten
out recently. She also mentioned the high privacy fence to me (I
didn't bring up the subject) and said that they put it up so the dog
could hang in the backyard without being watched constantly. He
could easily jump over her front yard fence (which used to extend
around both yards until the tall privacy fence replaced it for the
backyard). She also said that the dog was wary of strangers and if
he didn't see them, he wouldn't bark at them. This is true because
she let me meet him, and he barked at me!!!

Regards,
Tara from LI (zip code 11580, Kathleen!)

Thank you Tara... I had been hoping that there was a confirmed sighting of her from this week... it had sounded earlier that there might have been. I always worry when a week goes by and she isn't seen. I really think with rain finally stopping this weekend they'll be a lot more sightings!

Tara,
Just checking in and noticed your question regarding a ridge of fur on the greyhound's back that you saw. Yes, I've definitely seen that before on a purebred greyhound. But you're right it does look like a ridgeback. Terrie

The ridge along the spine of a greyhound or whippet is what I personally refer to as a mohawk. Their hair stands up like that when they are on the alert or getting ready to attack and/or fight. It's a warning to the other party, whether it be dog or human or any other critter. You notice it because their hair is so short. Most dogs do it - I know my German Shep does it also and with her I just notice a difference in the coloring when her hair stands up.

Diane, I think the ridge that Tara was talking about is something different. I've seen what you're talking about on many dogs. But this is something that's kind of flat all the way along the back. It's kind of like a colic (sp?) It's always there, doesn't come and go. A greyhound I used to sit for had it. It's about a half inch wide and runs almost the length of the back. Just peculiar to certain hounds, I guess. Terrie

So the thought that someone has Vivi and built a privacy fence so she wouldn't be seen is false..Oh dear. Were any of the sightings in the past week or so confirmed?
MaryL-California

God Is Our Hope
God is our hope and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore will we not fear, though the earth be moved,
and though the hills be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though the waters thereof rage and swell,
and though the mountains shake at the tempest of the same.
There is a river, the streams whereof make glad the city of God,
the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.
Psalms 46: 1-4 | Source: Book of Common Prayer 1979
Giver of Life, we rejoice in the beauty of the world you have created--especially the animals, our brothers and sisters in creation. We ask in confidence that you rescue Vivi, Biggie, and Sniffles from their wanderings, and put them on the path to a volunteer, and home. Watch over them this night Gentle Shepherd. Help these three, and all the lost, homeless, and ill, sleep well in the brightness of tonight's clear moon. On this crisp evening help them feel the warmth of Your love to the very soul of their being. Thank You for the continuing healing in Pam,Madison,and Baby Girl.
Thank You for the continued healing in Cupid, Felice, Dante and Murphy. We rejoice and praise You for Nell's miracle! We ask You to return CJ and McGee to their sweet full of beans style. Comfort all those who mourn a person or animal. Greet at the gates of Paradise all who will make the journey to be with You tonight. Reunite them with the humans and companion animals they have loved during earthly life. Count us among the flock you gather when it is our turn to make the heavenly journey.
Protect, guide and bless Vivi's angels as they post and search tonight and tomorrow. Send your angels and St. Francis, and St.Anthony to help them. (Let tomorrow be the day!) Let this experience increase our faith in You no matter what the tradition, or expression. We will sleep and be restored and healed knowing YOU ARE IN CHARGE! AMEN!
Candles?
http://www.gratefulness.org
'Night.

Mary L., LOOK UP! :0)

I see on Gail's website they feel Vivi is near the airport again. The map screen captures are helpful to gain a sense of the area.

"I think she is around North Woodmere Park and Brookville Park. She may go over to the other large park in Woodmere (see Woodmere Map http://meshirer.net/vivi/woodmere.htm )"

OK - here I am - are the rest of you coming?

I'm here also.

SusanG:

I am so terribly sorry about Nell. I will do a transition ceremony to help send her spirit with love, that she has from so many people, into heaven. My dogs give their support too and will attend. We also will pray for you in this time of loss and grief, which is great. You are losing a treasured friend and companion.

Cynthia

Kathy,
I'm with ya! Also:::::::my AOL problem wasn't AOL, it was me, I think..It seems to be working now.
MaryL-California

Good Morning June 13th-- Happy St. Anthony's Day!!
I got an e-mail from Debbie. CJ's surgery went great and the growth was not cancerous!

St. Anthony is considered- the saint of miracles, the finder of the lost, and a patron of domestic animals. Once more, as members of the Communion of Saints with Anthony, we don't worship him, we ask his aid, as one might ask the help of a good brother or sister, because he loved God, too. He points the way to God!

Prayer to Saint Anthony the Wonder-Worker
Saint Anthony, perfect imitator of Jesus, who received from God the special power of restoring lost things, grant that WE may find Vivi,today. Please restore our hope today. Help all of the many domestic animals of ours whose names you know. Grant all the sick who need us, miracles. At least restore to us peace and tranquility of mind, the loss of which afflicts us even more than our material loss. To this favor we ask another of you: that we may always remain in possession of the true good that is God.Let us rather lose all things than lose God, our supreme good. Let us never suffer the loss of my greatest treasure, eternal life with God. Amen. Thank you Brother Anthony!
Didn't want anyone to miss the significance of the day, Right , Jackie?

okay, as soon as I catch up on the other thread. I will be here also.

Happy St. Anthony's Day to everyone - perfect day for Vivi to show her little self and give up her freedom for the life of comfort. Also a glorious day for all those sick and lost pets to rejoyce in the healing spirit of our Lord - St Anthony - pass our prayers along to our heavenly Father - bless them and their owners, help Sue with her difficult week ahead and comfort her and all the others that are facing difficulties ahead. In the Lord, God the Father, we pray.

Cynthia's Williams Psychic Update:

I wanted to share a little of the events at the Doggie Dash this weekend. The event brought in over 1300 people to an area of a large park in Sacramento, and I did meet a couple of beautiful greyhounds, but no Whippets, and many other fascinating dog personalities.

I do have lots to share, but will keep it short today. One thing I noticed was that many people wanted "Dog Training" tips or behavior problem solutions, which is not what I do at these events even though I have learned some real gems over the years. They should call a dog behaviorist first. I focus on the dog's emotional state and relay their feelings to the owners.

I pay close attention to the names the owner's give their dogs. As I believe the animal will "live" up to its name, like in the Old Testament days and the Jewish Faith - names are so very important.

One example is a woman who's cat's name meant "an agent of the devil". Oh my, what a strange name for a beloved kitty. She said it just popped into her head and stuck. She would not consider changing its name. And the cat was so naughty, fighting with the other cats, destroying personal items in the house, and for punishment the young woman put the cat in the bathroom, which I thought made the situation worse.

So since the woman refused to change the cat's name, I suggested she stop putting it in the bathroom, a rather disrespectful place full of smells that one does not want to associate with, and instead put the cat in the front bedroom, give it a satin pillow in front of the window, and let that be its "time-out" zone. But the chances of changing its behavior was slim to zero. She knew what it was from the beginning - and she named it The Devil, and the cat was living up to its name.

Of course, if she would change its name, then I believe the cat too would change to fulfill its new image, and the woman too might just change the way she viewed and talked to her kitty.

Okay, that's all of my stories for now. I will post more later. God Bless. Nice to hear news about Vivi sightings.

Cynthia

I'm checking the new thread to. Hope for some really good news soon.

SueG - Thinking of you and little Nell with my heart and prayers. Don't forget my phone numbers.

Hugs from Kathleen and Tinkerbell

The Mystic River:

Is flowing slow today with the news of Nell. There will no posting until after a suitable grieving period has passed.

The Mystic River:

My hiatus will last several days in honor of Nell. Please all continue, but I just can't right now. God Grant Nell peace and comfort Susan. My dogs stood as Nell's proxy, they wanted her to heal too. We are all sad and mourn her loss. It is a sad day.

Cynthia

has anyone heard from Sue G - I know she was gonna just lurk and pray with Nell - I am so worried for her.

Hi my fellow blogger friends, I have not been on
in a few days. I was wishing that Vivi had been
found to lift my spirits. My precious Nell has taken
a turn for the worse again, and I will be sending her to the bridge this week. She is weak again, and
is now bleeding internally. I still cannot believe
that 2 months ago I had a perfectly h ealthy happy
whippet that hiked 2 miles a day with me thru the
woods and now I am losing her. Cancer sucks !!!!I want to thank you all again for your love and prayers, especially Kathleen S for her daily prayer to me via email, and Sharon, and Cynthia
and Kathy from Colorado, and Darlene, OMG I could
go on and on, I love you all for your support. I
probably will just lurk from now on while praying
for Vivi, but if you all ever have a party when she
is caught, I will be there with bells on. If I left
anyone out, I apologize, I am burned out, but
I love you all for your support, pls prayer for me
to get thru this week.

Sue G

Kathy,
Not since she told us Nell had taken a turn for the worse and the rest. Poor gal, I feel her pain.
MaryL-California

I do too - I've been there before and I hate it. Did you get my email yet - I sent it to the yahoo account

I think we may need to be careful about posting anything on the blog that identifies the areas Vivi may be in presently. Why don't we just say Vivi was sighted and is okay. Just my suggestion. Thanks.

Did I miss something? Has Vivi been sighted?

ok Mary - I emailed you - did you get it?

Kathleen - glad to see you online - were you able to hold on to those two pillows or did the Tink get them?

DANTE UPDATE 6/13/06

Hello everyone,

Dante celebrated his 8th birthday on Monday, May 29, Memorial Day. Both he and Trotter were given a special treat, a dehydrated cow tendon. Neither one of them were able to finish it so I put it away for another day. They both enjoyed it though. They also got to go for a nice long walk and got a bath and a nail trim that day. Dante wasn’t too thrilled about the later 2 on his birthday. 

Dante is now seeing the holistic vet every other week and is continuing to eat his normal dog food. During the 2 weeks from our last visit to this visit, Dante has put on 1 pound. Seems he does much better on his regular food. He is now a robust 35 pounds.

I have been noticing that Dante is looking more muscular, especially in his back legs. Plus, his body is looking thicker and is solid. I attributed it to the increased distance we walk daily and all his squirrel chasing while we are out on our walks. But when a friend started to comment on his changing body, I began to wonder why so much of a change when Trotter is living the same lifestyle (minus the squirrel chasing) and Trotter isn’t changing. I wondered if the herbal remedy the holistic vet is giving him contained any natural steroids. I called her and she said, “No.” The herbal remedy is solely to fight against blood stagnation which is what mast cell tumors create. Therefore, he is just becoming more muscular which; I take as a good sign. If he was sick, I would expect him to lose weight, not gain it and to lose muscle size, not increase muscle mass. I pray this is a sign that he is cancer free.

I really appreciate all the continued prayers and well wishes from everyone. I truly believe all the support, prayers and positive vibes are a vital source in his recovery and my sanity. Thank you and please keep in touch.
Dante and Trotter send wet nose kisses to everyone.

Valerie, Dante and Trotter

PS. Vivi it is time to go to your real home not the home on the streets. To all those involved in Vivi's search, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It kills me that she is still out running the streets.

SueG, I am so very sorry to hear about Nell!! You did everything you could.
Good for CJ, my prayers continue for the sick children and sick and lost animals.

Sorry Kay, I meant to say when we receive sightings of Vivi I think it would be best to hold off posting anything on this blog until we feel Vivi has moved on or is safe. We do not want to jeopardize the wrong person knowing where Vivi might be at any time. Sorry for the confusion there! Waiting to hear good news myself and praying.

Valerie - what good news about Dante - still praying for a continued recovery.

I'm soooo happy for you and Dante and Trotter Valerie and I agree, its time for Vivi to stop fooling around or whatever she's doing!

I haven't seen any posting of a Vivi sighting, anyone else see one?

Kathy, got the email on AOL, I lost the Yahoo one..I think I'm having computer issues..lol

MaryL-California

Got to head to "yet another" meeting, but Tink did let me have those two pillows last night Kathy. She was nice because mommy had shared her steak with her. Not spoiled at all!

G'morning Marthaaaaaaaa, (morning here for almost 10 minutes)..
MaryL-California

Thanks Kathleen. I agree completely.

Oops, my mistake - I read an old post about Vivi being near the airport. It wasn't old to me because I do not read the blog on the weekends. (Sorry) I will not post any psychic gleanings about Vivi, but will answer e-mails.

The Mystic River of Riddles will return after the Mourning Period of Nell ends. No more riddles until then.

SusanG you are in our prayers (including the prayers of all my animals)each morning and each night, and little Nell too.

God Bless,

Cynthia

Good Morning MaryL ---- ;)
Dante, good dog!!
Hi, Tinkerbell that was nice of you to leave Mommy pillows last night - noooo your not spoiled. ;)

Well, Texas is finally doing something about selling pets on the streets, even if this is a small town others are watching. Here's the link.

http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?
section=state&id=4265498

Sorry, the link needed to be all on one line and it didn't come out right. So I'll paste it

(6/13/06 - NEW BRAUNFELS, TX) - The City Council approved a ban on roadside pet sales following resident complaints over the practice.

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Also on ABC13.com:

Send news tips | RSS | ABC13 E-lert | Info mentioned on air | Search abc13.com

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That's after residents of the Guadalupe River city complained about the practice.

The ordinance approved yesterday by the City Council makes it a Class C misdemeanor to give away or sell animals from rights of way and commercial parking lots.

New Braunfels Humane Society director Cheryl Krueger hails the ordinance, saying the roadside sales had become a major community problem.

Krueger told the council about incidents she said illustrate the dangers of roadside sales -- including a litter of sick poodles that sold for 300 each, then all died.

Other concerns include potential safety hazards created when pet vendors set up shop too close to the street. Also of concern were vendors who might not follow the same vaccination guidelines as animal shelters or pet shops.

To Little Miss Yum Yum and her friends: Prayer walls can't keep the mystic river out. The mystic river flows from the all-knowing universe, not from the depths of darkness.

This is not a riddle.

Susan,

Please accept my deepest sympathies on the turn of events for the worse regarding Nell.

Take heart in the fact that you left no stone unturned in seeking help for Nell's cancer!

God is calling Nell home. Very sad for those of us left behind to mourn, but soon Nell will be whole and healthy in Heaven and happily waiting to see you again when that time comes.

With love,
Tara from LI

Here is something that I was sent when I was mourning the loss of one of my animals - hopefully it will help Sue G and any others that are going thru this.

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say.
But first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from the Bridge. Here I dwell with God above.
Here there's no more tears of sadness. Here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I am with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you.
It's good to have you back again, you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night the day's chores put to flight,
God and I are closest to you...in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years,
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry, it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
If I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

Forgot - it's entitled Letter from the Bridge

*sobbing*

Kathy - thank you for posting that. I had to put my horse down a couple of months ago, and I was in tears about it again this morning.

All animals that give love reside in heaven. God holds them in his arms forever and forever - every single one of them.

And yes, they are closer to us than ever before and they look down from heaven and smile.

We will run with them again. We will kiss their soft noses again and their warm breath fills our soul forever and forever.

You are welcome Denise - sorry to hear about your horse - it is so hard - out of the blue I will start sobbing over Kaycee who I lost 6 years ago.

Did you see the good news on Duke???

Beautiful but sad Kathy. I have one that I can't read without crying, "When Tomorrow Starts Without Me". I got it in 2003 and still have trouble reading it. Its sad and sweet, almost too much for someone who's pet is going to the Bridge or is there already to read.

I think I need a rest from the blog, these past few days have been very hard. Bless little Nell.
MaryL-California

MaryL - did you see the post on Duke - that will cheer you up

Kathy,
Yep and I agree with what you wrote! (0:
I DO feel better for what its worth..Thanks!
MaryL-California

In fact, I feel much better and thats worth a lot to me!
MaryL-California

I too am having a very difficult time right now. I have not heard from SueG or Gina (Madison's mom) in several hours now. This is one time when I do not feel "no news is good news."

SueG - if you are out there please e-mail or call me. I DON'T care if you have to cry on the phone, I will just cry right along with you. I'm concerned about you.

Hugs and love from Kathleen and the Tinkerbell

And, oh no Martha, you are so wrong - Tinkerbell is spoiled so rotten that no one would put up with her but her mommy!

Kathy

That was beautiful but soooo sad. Has anyone heard from SueG. Life is so full of ups and downs. We need something to lift our spirits. Please ViVi bring your whippet tail out so someone can see you. We are tired of you playing hide-and-seek with the volunteers.

and I just got word that one of our greyhound members put his Twyla down today - she had gone thru the amputation about 3 months ago and it looked very promising - she went to her favorite event this weekend and got lots of attention and petting but made a turn for the worse on Monday - my heart is just breaking but so glad that my prayers for Duke were answered

I know right now SueG is having a very hard time. I'm sure she will not mind me sharing this update on Nell with the blog. I will let you all know what I find out from SueG along the way. Keep Nell in your prayers. I think the baby is still fighting hard.
-------------------
"I am hanging in there, I thought we lost her last night but this morning she seemed a little better. I know the time is very close. It is so weird, everytime I accept the fact that I need to euthanize her, she seems to rally. I am taking her to the vet tomorrow to get bloodwork done one last time.

Again, thanks for caring so much."

Thank you Kathleen for the Nell update - she sounds like a little fighter -

Thank you Kathleen..Nell is a fighter. I'll just keep praying for her and Sue..
Kathy,
I'm really sorry about Twyla but happy she had one last fling.
Now, I'm taking my guys out for a run and a little ball playing and maybe even squirrel or wild turkey chasing. No turkey or squirrel for dinner tho..lol
MaryL-California

Sharon - I don't know about the others but I could sure use a prayer right about now

Amen Kathy, Amen! This has been a very rough day for all our hearts.

Kathleen

Nell is fighting because she loves Susan and her fight is a testament to their bond of affection and friendship.

Tonight, I will pray for them both (including my dogs) and pray above all for peace and understanding in this time of transition as Nell moves closer to the outstretched arms of God.

SusanG: if you are reading this, it may be helpful to prepare an alter outside where you can burn a candle and incense for Nell.

She is going to a place of Love and Hope and Tender Care. We will pray for your strength too. God will sustain you when you weaken. And if you lose faith or are afraid, may our prayers and faith and love surround you.

God Bless,

Cynthia

Oh, I forgot- - -My friend in downstate NY while walking her dog this week end came upon "baby turkeys" Momma turkey headed toward friend and her dog and she took a quick left with the dog.....

This is a prayer in Desperate Cases. Prayer to St. Rita, to whom I pray to all the time for my animals.

O powerful Saint Rita
rightly called Saint of the Impossible
and Helper in Desperate Cases,
I come to you with confidence
in my great need.
you know well my trials,
for you yourself were many times
burdened in this life.
Come to my help, speak for me,
pray with me,
intercede on my behalf before the Father.
I know that God has a most generous heart
and that he is a most loving Father.
Join your prayers to mine
and obtain for me the grace I desire,
(here mention your request)
You who were so very pleasing to God on earth
and are so much more now in heaven
I promise to use this favor when granted,
to better my life,
to proclaim God's mercy,
and to make you more widely known
and loved.

Thank you very much Kim for that beautiful prayer. It is so good to know how many animal lovers believe in "bended knees" in their work.

Cynthia - I'm sure SueG would appreciate your kind words as well. Thank you.

Hugs from Kathleen and Tinkerbell

Nell knows her time is ending and is preparing herself for the journey.

Dogs prepare themselves for passing just like people do. This weekend I laid hands on a dog that was preparing for the end; but out of respect for its owners I did not tell them. I told them when the times comes, the dog will know and be ready.

Nell knows and is giving her last love, all she has, to Susan. It is a time of sweet tenderness to be cherished.

My son used to ask me if he would be alone when God takes him to heaven. I said no. I will be right with you taking the same journey. I believe, we do travel with our pets. They take us in their hearts right up to God. Just like our loved ones do that pass over.

Nell is taking Susan with her. They will never be apart, not really. One day is eons long and eons like a second. Soon they will run together again in the presence of God.

I have just a few Saints that I pray all the time to. St. Rita, who has helped with my whippets on many occasions. St. Francis, who I took on Francis as my confirmation name. This Saint many of times has helped my animals during good and bad. St. Roch, who has been a big inspiration on my prayers. St. Roch was sick during the time the plaque was killing people in Italy. This Saint went into the woods to die. Every day a WHIPPET came and brought him bread. This whippet saved his life. So I pray to him all the time to guide Vivi.

Kathy,
You've got mail..Answer it right away please! )0:
MaryL-California

Kim,Thank you for your beautiful stories, and insights!
Cynthia, your last post was very beautiful and compassionate-- you made the process very easy to visualize!

Mary,
Your aol address keeps getting kicked back to me.

Thank you for your kindness Sharon and Kathleen.

Sharon,
I checked and your on my mail controls list so I don't know why you are having trouble with mail to me..Try again...Sheesh, yesterday everyone had a problem with mail to me.
MaryL-California

Sharon,
I just sent you a test email..

I got your e-mail, but when I replied to it it was kicked back. I also have school e-mail which is probably where my mail even at home originates. My school address is on the list but I'd rather not post it here. Give me the name of someone you can e-mail to, and who can send to you. I will send them my second e-mail, and you can see if you have it on your "unblock" hate to play cloak and dagger, but only a few people have that address.

For Nell and Susan G.:

We give thanks for the creatures who live alongside us as companions and friends; for their loyalty, love, and trust which enrich our lives and give us joy. May we learn the value of kindness, the power of mercy, the strength of gentleness, and a new spirit of humility. Amen.
--Based on an idea by Andrew Linzey

Sharon,
I read you...over and out...heh heh..try Kathleen or I'll send you an email from my yahoo, very private email addy...Clock and dagger stuff..(0;
MaryL-California

Sharon,
You've got mail, again...
MaryL-California

MaryL - I just sent you an email and it hasn't kicked back yet - so it must be working now.

SOMEONE TELL ME ABOUT VIVI! PLEASE! I NEED NEWS ABOUT HER RIGHT AWAY!
MaryL-California

MaryL - did you get my email -

Kathy,
Thanks for answering me..I also sent you mail..
MaryL-California