This Made my Heart Smile!

Recently the "Makes my Heart Smile Award" was generously shared by a few of our blogging friends. Yesterday I received an e-mail message that is definitely worthy of this award! Read on!

Over the years ForPaws Corgi Rescue has placed literally hundreds of dogs. Every so often we hear from our adopters. They write to tell us that their new dog is a bona fide family member in a home where it is clearly happy and well-loved. These letters are the real rewards that come from dog rescue work.

But once in awhile we get a letter that qualifies as the Olympic Gold Medal of reports. Below is just such a letter, received yesterday from a wonderful man who has been instructing one of our adopters, and her little rescue Pembroke in the fine art of herding sheep!

The dog he refers to was one of four, taken from a puppy mill. This little guy was extremely shy and under socialized, but incredibly sweet. It has taken him some time to trust and the herding work as given him a lot of confidence.

Note: The letter has been slightly edited, and names have been changed to protect privacy.

Dear ForPaws,

 I just wanted to send a quick note and update on the Iowa “Castaway” Pembroke adopted by Joanne.

He has been, and continues to be, a great joy to work with.  The courage he has shown is truly amazing.  As you know, I have been working him on sheep for Joanne since late last year.  

Each time we work together he shows signs of improvement.  Each time he is a little more relaxed.  He lets me pet him, without cringing.  He is smiling.  Last night after working the sheep, he even gave me a little nuzzle.  As Joanne picked him up, I gave him tummy skritches and his little eyes started closing.  You could tell he was relaxing, that he is really starting to believe that this is his forever home and that he will have a chance to be a real Corgi.

Last night our work on sheep was to go in a pen with a mix of ewes and lambs and walk calmly around them, to reverse direction, to stop and turn into the sheep.  Only a couple times did he want to charge off and raise a little havoc (he wouldn’t be a Corgi if he didn’t).  The rest of the time he walked calmly by my side, on a very loose long line, with a huge smile on his face.

The goal has always been to get him to a point where he and Joanne could be a real team in the arena.  I am proud, and sad at the same time, to be able to say that we begin the transition next week.  

What this little guy may not know, is how much he is teaching me and the gifts he is giving me.  Then again, maybe he does. 

I really feel like I am the lucky one here.  What skills or knowledge I have been able to share with the rescues I have been around…seem insignificant when I look at what they have given me.

Bob

Thanks Bob....you Made my Heart Smile!

A "Twofer" on Friday the 13th - Lucky Day for Dogs

Today was a very Lucky Day for two nice tri-colored boys with 

ForPaws Corgi Rescue.

Coincidentally, both boys will now live in California, 

after starting out in Kansas and Minnesota.

Not only did Doodles get a great home in California, but his new owner actually flew to Kansas to get him! Something tells me this little guy is going to be loved in the way every dog dreams he might be!

This was the day that our fourth, and final puppy mill CastAway, "Wilson," set sail for his new home in California.  Arriving safely by air transport, he offered his new parents kisses as a pre-Valentine present!

Sigh...both dogs knew that this was a big day.  And both were ready and excited to meet their new family members. For our two foster moms, it was a day to shed a little tear as two special boys take a very big step. While we want them to find loving homes, and to prosper in them, they always leave a little piece of themselves in our hearts!

Live long, happy and healthy lives in your new homes boys!  You go with our love on this Valentine's Eve!

King Charlie goes to Washington on Inauguration Day!

Tomorrow is a Big Day, not just for Mr. Obama, 

but for "King Charlie" too!

After spending time in foster care since last Fall, one of our CastAways is going to his real home tomorrow.  He will be the star of the show for a corgi-experienced couple in the Washington D.C. area.  They couldn't be more excited to have this new little man in the household. We know they'll treat him like the King that he is!

Have a Safe Trip and a Wonderful Life Charlie! 

We all love you!

Herding Trials for some of the CastAway Boyz!!

Accompanied by their Pembroke Pal, Miss Ghillie, and their foster mom, K.D., CastAways, Nolan, Wilson and Charlie all had a taste of what it is to do the job for which you were bred - herding! 

Time to meet the sheep, kindly made available by their owner, JoAnna, and Steve, their trainer, who graciously provided herding instinct testing for our Rescues. - Thanks Joanna and Steve!

What's your guess? Who had the herding genes in the group? Check out the photos below and see!

Getting one-on-one attention is never a bad thing for a Corgi.  Steve shares some herding advice before the sheep enter the scene. Dog and shepherd must be in synch for this to work well!

Foster mom, K.D. shows Nolan and Wilson how it's done.

Whoa...Nolan is a natural!

Perfect Nolan, round 'em up!

Hey, wait a minute!

Nolan takes a moment to inspect the perimeter 

and savor the beautiful day.

Meanwhile, Wilson has work to do, with the help of Steve's corgi, Sammo.

OK Wilson...these are the sheep, it's up to you now!

You've got it Wilson, that's the way to get those sheep in line.

Thanks Sammo...and you're a great teacher!

Good job Wilson!

Run Wilson, run!

Watch carefully Wilson!

Go get 'em Sammo!

Someone looks like a tired Corgi.  Showing your new buddy what it takes to be a real herding dog takes its own kind of energy!

Oh, and for the record...no photos of Charlie wasn't a coincidence. He and Ghillie are like-minded on this one, showing no real interest in the sheep. Much more fun to play with the humans! 

And thanks again to Steve for giving us an absolutely gorgeous November morning, complete with show dusting in the air, and the opportunity to see which of the Boys possesses natural herding talent!

CastAway Update - Wilson and the Fall Colors!

Time to assess the progress 

our CastAway Rescues have made! 

1. Kelly - This nice fellow has gone to his new home in New Mexico and prospers there with his new human mom and canine sister.

2. Charlie - Our Wild and Crazy guy is calming nicely. Still the most enthusiastic and adventuresome, this guy will need an owner who has had experience with a busy, strong-minded corgi. Make no mistake, Charlie is a real sweetheart, but is like a teen needing "tough love" at this stage in his development.

3. Nolan - Proving to be the shyest or the four, Nolan continues to make great progress in his socialization efforts. And there is a Big Surprise in Nolan's future! Stay tuned to learn more about it in the next few days!

4. Wilson - Our handsome little tri-colored boy has also proven to be a bit on the shy side. Getting used to all of the new people, places and things in the world outside of a puppy mill environment is more of a challenge for him. He will take a little longer than Charlie or Kelly to acclimate to the Big World. Wilson will need a home with someone who has had a history of working with a shy dog.  He's a very sweet fellow and is slowly blossoming in his foster home.

Below: Wilson gets a chance to explore the gorgeous acreage of his foster home (with his German Shepherd companion for moral support). These photos were taken early in October.

What's this? A bucket...what does it do?

Heading out for a big adventure!

Hmmm...sure smells good here!

Can you say Corgi in Heaven?

And more Heaven!!!

This is my favorite: Looks more like a painting and makes me want to be there!

Thanks for hanging out with me!

Wow!  This is really cool.  Can we go around again?

Charlie - It's only Rock 'n Roll, but I Like it!

If ever there was a Man who loved to Rock 'n Roll, it's CHARLIE!

Remember when we said we'd be learning more about our four Cast Aways and their musical tastes? Well, this is the hard-core rocker, right here! Clearly his collection of Metallica is intact - even though he's not any longer!

Charlie is the Classic Teenage Boy: He's about 2 years old, at the most, so think "17-year-old boy, with a bit of A.D.H.D. (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) going on." He thinks he is the top of the heap, but it only takes a real Pembroke Princess to call his bluff!

What does this mean to a potential owner? It means that you'll see an incredibly active, enthusiastic, outgoing personality, and a Big Smile 24/7! This is an energetic, happy little dog, ready for any activity you can dish out. He'd be an excellent agility prospect, if you're so inclined.

Because he's a young, active dog, it is critically important that Charlie find a home with a corgi-experienced owner; someone who has the knowledge to train and socialize him properly. This boy would benefit from basic obedience training, but most importantly, he absolutely MUST have a home in which he clearly understands that YOU are Pack Leader. He is actually an Alpha-Wanna-Be and not difficult to correct, when you understand his game plan. He will do what any strong-willed Corgi is best at: He will TEST...again, and again, and again!

This little fellow is actually a Bundle of Fun. We've been extremely amused by him and he'd be very happy with a female canine companion in the household. Because he thinks pretty highly of himself, it would be best for him to be the only male dog.

If you want a dog that Loves to Rock 'n Roll...this is your guy! We will be officially posting him for adoption on the http://www.Forpaws.org website very soon and will be screening applications. Charlie is ready for his new home, and very excited to find it!

If you're looking for a dog with Personality, Plus - look no further! The pictures tell the story (see below):

Am I not the cutest little fellow you've ever seen?

Hey There, check me out! This is my Best Side!

Sometimes I could just HOWL, life is such a kick!

Oh, all these rules and restrictions! 

They're just meant to be tested, I say!

Mick's my Hero...Sticky Fingers got nothin' on me!

OK, sorry if I scared you with the tongue thing...I'm really a pretty nice little guy!

I am SO ready to come Home...can I, can I...when? 

Just say the word and I'm There!

Kelly - The Penultimate Pembroke

Kelly is...well, just a nice little fellow!

Time for more about Kelly: He is the easiest one of the four Cast Away Boys because he is what every little Pembroke Welsh Corgi ought to be. He is sweet, friendly, happy, playful, smart, and just plain cute! 

He knows his place in the pack and isn't overly dominant or submissive, but a nice medium temperament. Getting along with all people and other dogs is one of his specialties. Here are a few pictures of him with our new girl, Gerry Berry. They had quite a nice time together, as you'll see.

Isn't she just the prettiest thing...and she's talking to me! Wow!

You're really sweet! Wanna wear my hat?

You're a pretty handsome fella Kelly! 

We look Good together!

I just LOVE going out on the town!

Make a Cute Face...You want a pose, how's this?

We continue to be really pleased with how well the Cast Aways are coming along. In fact, we were so impressed with Kelly's progress, that when he asked us to find him a new home....we did! 

That's right! Kelly is our lucky winner: The first to find his new home from among some of the applicants who've expressed interest in these dogs. Kelly will be traveling to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he will live with his new mom and a nice canine sister! 

We couldn't be more pleased for him! Congratulations Kelly! We will miss you and wish you a long and happy life!

Next up: Charlie - our little Wild Man!

Stay Tuned - Cast Away Personality Profiles Coming Soon!

We're all a LOT happier now that we've been with our foster mom for a month. She knows quite a bit more about us too.  

Look for our personality profiles 

COMING SOON!

Live...from Minnesota - Corgi Summer Olympics!!!

New World Records set by Competitors without Tails!!

Updated events have just been filed by the CPI (Corgi Press International) from Minnesota where the Corgi Summer Olympics are taking place this year. Senior Correspondent, K.D., reports on the action:

TRACK & FIELD COMPETITION

Charlie has been practicing running laps and I told him it paid off!  He won a SILVER Medal for his "SPEED" and ability to "LEAP" straight in the air and land on the other side of the finish line, without breaking stride.  He also is quite talented at kicking up a lot of dust to throw off the competition!

SPLISH SPLASH IN THE CORGI CUBE

Wilson has perfected the NEW swimming stroke that is done on land.  Have you all heard of this one?  It is an incredible new event called "Alligator Man"?  The dog is jumping up and down with his front legs and bowing at the same time while his mouth is snapping and he makes a little growling sound. Well, our own Mr Wilson seems to be quite a natural "alligator man".  You should see him in action!   The unbelievable movement landed him a SILVER MEDAL. We will see this guy again in 2012, and you better believe he's going for the Gold (Did somebody say Solid Gold...where's the food?)

NEW EVENT THIS YEAR - INTRODUCING,  "AND YOU THOUGHT YOU COULD DANCE - OLYMPIC STYLE!"

Kelly (Hey Gene Kelly look out! You aren't the only one that can dance!) Kelly won a SILVER Medal in FLOOR Exercises with his incredible "Foot work,"  complete with verbal expressions! The judge was quite impressed with this talented "Young" (in fact the youngest in the field) competitor. This one has a brilliant future ahead and we'll be looking for him again in 2012!

EMOTIONAL BEHIND-THE-SCENES STORIES, AN EXCLUSIVE AS TOLD TO CPI

Nolan competed in a very special class where most dogs could not enter.  It is a most special class and he excelled.   It was called the "HEART" contest.  No one else even came close.  This "Little Man" touched the judge's hearts and it was clearly visible by the tears in her eyes.   The amazing depth to this little guy is staggering.  Needless to say, he didn't have to stagger to the top of the platform, but hopped up with ease to accept his GOLD MEDAL! Nolan, you're our Hero!

A Better Time for Nolan

Nolan's first venture into the big world of social situations verified our observations regarding his status as the "shyest" of the four. He was clearly uncomfortable and not yet interested in meeting strangers. He wasn't nearly as happy to be the center of attention as say....Charlie!

So we thought we'd give Nolan a little morale boost by letting him run around a bit with his new little friend, Ghillie. Typically the presence of another non-threatening corgi does wonders for a dog like Nolan. And sure enough, Ghillie really brought him out of his shell. 

Things started out in a low key fashion with a little relaxation 

next to a gorgeous bed of summer flowers.

But Ghillie was ready to explore, 

so Nolan decided to follow along.

OK, fine...you're not the only corgi who can run fast 

on those short little legs!

Whew! You've had a little more practice with the fast running 

than I have.  Let's stop & catch a breath.

There's always good stuff to sniff here Nolan - check it out!

Wow...my first kiss....it's really nice - can we do it again?

Nolan - The Last to Venture Out

Our shy boy, Nolan, made his debut in the Outside World today. As expected, he was not as outgoing as his three comrades. He was more comfortable keeping to himself and not interested in socializing with his foster mom's friends. (Thanks to Katie and Pat for their kindness in working with Nolan!) Much of the time he wanted to hide behind his foster mom, with whom he has developed a strong bond. He is the "velcro" in the group.

Actually this type of behavior and level of confidence is what we'd anticipated from all four, given their lack of exposure to the world. In many ways Nolan is more willing and curious than we'd expected these dogs to be, but he requires more reassurance than the others. He was interested in examining the landscape as he walked around the block, but wasn't interested in people. 

Nolan was less-than-thrilled at the idea of approaching a stranger, but wasn't nearly as fearful as many puppy mill dogs can be at this stage.

He did submit to being held, but wasn't crazy about the idea.

But when Nolan got back to his foster home, he was introduced to K.D.'s little rescue girl, Ghillie.  He was MUCH more interested in her!

Miss Ghillie... Isn't she a looker?

Here's what K.D. had to say about Nolan's introduction to Ghillie:

"Ghillie stuck her nose thru the fence to sniff him. She sat down next to the fence and gave him her entire side so he could sniff her and she did not look into his eyes but rather gave the - approachable side - it is okay to sniff me thing.  Nolan wagged, Ghillie wagged and they exchanged some communications." *

*Interesting fact: Ghillie was also a puppy mill rescue. She was far less confident and well-socialized than Nolan is today when K.D. adopted her. She has blossomed with the patience and excellent care she's been given. Today this lovely girl is a Registered Therapy Dog and has just achieved her Canine Good Citizen certification! She's a great role model and it seems that Nolan has noticed!

But his FAVORITE girl still seems to be K.D. for right now. She said:

"Nolan now jumps up on me to be picked up or he lays down and rolls on his back with his feet in the air and looks at me.  RUB my belly!! So I held him for a good 20 minutes.  He never tried to get down."

Wilson makes the Social Scene

Wilson proved a bit more hesitant when it came to meeting new people and new dog pals. At first he didn't want to walk on a leash, but with a bit of encouragement he managed. All the new sounds in the Outside World were overwhelming. 

Strangers were initially too intimidating, but after ten minutes or so that Corgi Curiousity just got the better of him and he chose to approach cautiously. He seemed to especially like Amy and the feeling was mutual, as you'll see from the photos.

When it came to meeting new dogs, Wilson walked right up to Eko (Anatolian Shepherd) and they were fine together.

Though he wasn't quite as gregarious as Charlie and Kelly, Wilson's social confidence was still much better than anticipated for a first outing. This is a really sweet little guy and his Foster Mom reports that his confidence is growing noticeably each day. Wilson learns very quickly and we're starting to see that he's got quite the sense of humor! Wilson, you're a Winner!

Wilson took a real liking to Amy!

For those who say dogs don't smile...think again!

Not only is Amy friendly, but she has the Ear Scratch down to a science. Ahhhh!

And, as an added bonus, a picnic table! Any self-respecting Corgi is always alert for a Food Opportunity! I'll just take a little look-see up here!

These new folks are really nice, but you're still my favorite Foster Mom!

Eko is really TALL! Good thing he's a nice guy.

Hi Teresa! So nice of you to come down to my level! 

It's so much nicer when people don't tower over me. 

Charlie spoke so highly of you! Thanks for making me feel at home here.