We recently received a donation request for one of our Fido Studio Dog Crates as a comfortable den for these poor pups who had to be rescued from Hurricane Harvey. We spoke to Draco, Kona and Gunny’s new owner to find out a bit more about these adorable dogs and the adoption process.
How and why did you rescue these puppies?
I rescued 3 pups from Hurricane Harvey, the pups were from a breeder who was discounting them like they were a defective item that was taking up space. I knew right there and then that these dogs deserved better. I asked the breeder rather than abandon them, how could I get all three transferred to Maryland and give these dogs a fighting shot when the one they trusted had abandoned them.
What was the rescue process?
I paid for 2 separate flights and had to pay a fee for the breeder to surrender the pups to me, between flights and fees it came to over $2500 dollars. I could have easily adopted a puppy local and saved money but I’m from a military background and felt that protecting and standing up for what was wrong was in my nature. I knew the potential he just didn’t see in these dogs, so I spent my savings to help them without hesitation.
Is this the first time you’ve rescued a dog?
Yes this was my first time, I had no clue what I was signing up for I knew I was ready for a puppy and I ended up with three, so three times the awesomeness right!? But Gunny is the one part of this fun filled adventure that I was not ready for. It was 6 days after the first two arrived that our Belgian at 9 weeks died suddenly. We don’t know why exactly but believe the stress of the hurricane, the flight and everything was just too much. It was devastating and Draco the Dutch Shepherd who he came with on the first flight knew something was up, I guess dogs just sense things. He went from bullying him the first 4 days to day 5 and 6 just lying near him watchful and uneasy. I know that in his final days he experienced love and family and what it means to be man’s best friend and I knew right then and there that the money was 100% worth it. Then the 3rd puppy arrived, Kona a Belgian and let me say he is amazing and a beautiful color, likes to think of himself as a poster boy model type.
How are the dogs getting on now?
Draco and Kona are doing awesome I’m so happy I did this and so happy for companies like Omlet who feel the passion I do.
Would you recommend doing this to others?
With no hesitation, yes! Adopt, rescue, do anything to help an animal in need. One persons experience of an animal can be a treasure and life long bond. Animals deserve the best and I think we need more people to see the potential in animals not look at their flaws but know their journey and see a vision for them and create it.
Which services would you recommend?
Training , socialize them and shower them with positive reinforcement and love. I’ve got the love and the positive spirit but we have a long road ahead but I’m ready to get these pups to the max potential of what they can be these are working k9’s so they will need to have working ability so I’m in the hunt locally to find someone we can grow these pups to be awesome with but most places only offer it at the working level for 10-15 thousand dollars or I must have a medical condition that would allow them to use a grant to train them to their best potential so because I’m a veteran with no condition I don’t qualify.
What’s particularly important when rescuing a dog?
I think it’s important to know their story but don’t let that be how you view them, don’t look for what’s wrong, focus on what’s right and use that as your driver. I think you need to create a space that allows them to feel like they are a part of the pack and become that strong compass to guide them and be the leader but be the friend first and build the bond and trust and that will carry you to endless possibilities. I’m ready for where this takes us and can’t wait to update you guys as these pups grow.
I want to let everyone know that if I knew where the first month would have taken us, I would do it over again even knowing our Belgian Gunny would pass, I would not trade those 6 days of joy with him for anything. We will miss him!
This entry was posted in Dogs
If you’re considering adding a Yorkshire terrier, or Yorkie, to your family, get ready for a pint-sized bundle of joy that will leave a giant imprint on your heart. These miniature wonders are known for their feisty spirit, elegant appearance, and boundless energy. Raising a Yorkie is not just a responsibility; it’s a remarkable journey filled with love, laughter, and a few lessons along the way. To help you embark on this adventure with confidence, here are our top tips for raising a Yorkie.
Petite palate pleasers
Caring for your Yorkie’s dietary needs requires a dash of gourmet sensibility. Because of their petite stature, Yorkies need a high-quality, nutrient-rich diet that caters to their specific needs. Opt for dog food with premium ingredients as a balanced diet keeps their coat glossy, levels up their energy and keeps those puppy eyes sparkling. And in an effort to prevent overeating, be mindful of portion sizes by using a sturdy, easy-to-clean dog bowl for food and water.
Bonding beyond size
Despite their small size, Yorkies have an oversized personality. Socialization is key to nurturing their confidence and preventing any unwanted behavioral issues, such as feeling fearful around other dogs or people. So be sure to introduce your Yorkie to various people, places, and other pets from an early age as this will help develop them into well-rounded, sociable companions. When your Yorkie is comfortable, they’ll be happy, and what more could you want for your furry friend?
The art of grooming
Known for their luxurious, floor-sweeping coats, Yorkies have some of the silkiest fur of all dog breeds. As a result, regular dog grooming is essential to keeping their locks looking luscious and tangle-free. Brush your Yorkie’s coat daily to prevent mats and tangles or schedule regular trips to a professional groomer to help maintain that show-stopping appearance. And remember, pampering your pup isn’t just a luxury, it’s an art that forges a bond between you and your furry friend.
Mental stimulation
A Yorkie’s intelligence is as impressive as its charm. So be sure to engage their sharp minds with interactive dog toys or brain-teasing games. These mental workouts will help to prevent boredom or potentially destructive behavior. Whether it’s a game of hide-and-seek or a challenging treat puzzle, you’ll be amazed at how quickly your Yorkie’s remarkable intellect shines through.
Tail-wagging workouts
While they may appear dainty at first glance, don’t be fooled – Yorkies are bundles of energy that need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive activities are a must to help burn off their excess energy. Just remember, a tired Yorkie will also need a soft, cuddly dog bed to land on for some much-needed rest afterwards. In fact, if Yorkies had a motto they lived by it might just be “play hard, rest hard.”
Health matters
Just like any four-legged friend, Yorkies require regular health check-ups and visits with a veterinarian. A proactive approach to their health not only can extend their life span, but also deepens the bond of trust between you and your furry companion because they will trust you have their best interest at hand. So be sure to stay on top of vaccinations, flea and tick treatments, dental care, and regular vet visits to ensure your Yorkie stays in tip-top shape.
Create a pint-size palace
Your home is your Yorkie’s castle, so why not make it fit for a pint-sized royal? Create a designated space just for them with snuggly dog blankets, luxurious dog beds, or even a personalized dog den they can call their own. This special haven will become their favorite retreat and a place where they can rest, play, and feel like the regal, cherished member of your family that they truly are.
Positive reinforcement
Training a Yorkie is all about patience, consistency, and a lots of positive reinforcement. By using treats, praise, and a gentle touch you can easily teach your Yorkie basic commands and proper behavior. Keep in mind – Yorkies thrive on praise and affection, so be generous with your kind words and affectionate gestures. With the right approach, you’ll witness your Yorkie’s incredible ability to learn and adapt.
Emotional well-being
Beyond physical care, don’t underestimate the power of creating a flourishing environment for emotional well-being. Yorkies are the social butterflies of the dog world and they thrive on love and attention. So make sure you set aside quality time every day for cuddles, playtime, and bonding. Your unwavering affection will strengthen your relationship with your Yorkie and ensure their emotional health is just as vibrant as their physical well-being.
Embrace the joy
Raising a Yorkie is a journey brimming with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments. So embrace the playful antics and the mischievous twinkle in their eyes that reminds you of the warmth and joy they bring to your life. Your Yorkie isn’t just your pet; they’re a cherished friend and lovable companion that will make every day brighter and more memorable.
Omlet and raising your Yorkie
At Omlet, we’re pet parents first and out-of-the-box creators and ideators second. We know all too well what a remarkable experience raising these pint-sized pals called Yorkies can be. So we weave that knowledge and our personal experiences into each and every one of our ingenious creations. From comfortable dog beds, to cleaner dog bowls and every dog product in between, we design products that your dog not only needs, but wants as well. Raising a Yorkie doesn’t take a village, but with help from Omlet products, it sure does make the journey a whole lot better.
This entry was posted in Dogs
Did you just get a new puppy who is learning the rules of the house? Maybe your dog has behavioral problems, such as chewing on shoes or furniture. Or maybe you just want an easier way to travel with your dog. If you’re in any of these situations, crate training your dog might be the best option.
Crate training can be a controversial topic, but if we look at how dogs live in the wild, we realize it is a natural method to keep your dog comfortable and calm. Dogs are naturally den animals, which means that they feel comfortable in a small area they consider safe. A crate can simulate that for your dog.
A couple of other things to consider:
Never use a crate as a form of punishment.
Pay attention to your dog’s reaction to the crate- some dogs are more averse to crates, especially rescue dogs or any dog that spent a lot of time in a cage as a puppy.
Make sure you choose a crate that is properly sized for your dog. You can buy a larger crate that your dog can grow into, just block off a section of it until your dog grows.
Below you will find a guide to crate training your dog the proper way. As with any type of training, never force your dog to do anything they are visibly uncomfortable with. Treat this as another way to bond with your dog!
Courtesy of: TheBarkBuzz
This entry was posted in Dogs
FREE shipping on orders over $100 
Sign up to our newsletter 
180-day guarantee 