Ruby - One year later - 2 slideshows

This was Ruby at 37 LBS in Feb 2008 when she was seized in a cruelty case.

Click on the video below to see her miraculous transformation in her new home.

And from her new owner.....
I adopted Ruby in July after working with her as a volunteer trainer at PARL. For the first time in her life Ruby has a real family with myself and her 6yr old APBT brother Kaelin. Ruby is sweet as can be with everyone she meets. She is also extremely smart and loves training.
Ruby has been through basic obedience, Beyond the Basics obedience, and in the future I plan on competing her in Rally obedience........she is quite the superstar!

Ruby loves to go for a walks with myself and Kaelin, she also loves to come to work with me and play with her best buddy Brisby, a Bernese Moutain dog. I have to say that Ruby's favorite thing to do is hangout in her back yard and play with her one zillion toys!

Ruby and Kaelin both help me out with an afterschool program called Pets and Vets. We go to schools in Providence and educate the kids on Pit Bulls. Princess Ruby has such a happy loving girl, she is a true example of a happy ending........she finally knows what it feels like to be loved.
Melissa

Click on the smaller images to see full size

Ruby and her mom came by the shelter for a visit April 2. See her slideshow below

Emily - Pick of the Litter March 31

Watch Emily's TV appearance on ABC 6 News

Emily is about 16 years old.Emily unfortunately had to come into the shelter when her elderly owner went into a nursing home. We decided to give Emily a chance and after a few difficult weeks, she has warmed up to the staff quite nicely. She has been spayed and is up to date on her shots.

Max AKA Shotzy - Adoption Update - Pick of the Litter

" I just wanted you to know he is a wonderful addition to our family. He is doing just great. He is not blind completely and he has no cataracs. he has KCS or KSC disease but he is on lifetime meds for it. he is very comfortable. He is getting his teeth cleaned in a few weeks and he has a day at the spa in which he loved he got a massage and a skin treatment and grooming.

What a cutie.

We also bought him some bling for his collar and a new coat.

Well, take care and thank you again for my baby boy."

Mary

New Sunday Hours - Trial Basis

The RISPCA will be open on Sundays from 11 AM - 2PM starting in May through July. The new schedule will be on a trial basis only and the animals will be for viewing only.

Foster care training - April 18th

Saturday April 18 - RISPCA Main Conference Room

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM Bottle Feeding Orphaned Kittens

11:30 AM - 12 Noon Caring for a pregnant or nursing cat

Each spring the RISPCA is faced with many pregnant or nursing cats and orphaned kittens needing a foster home.

We need volunteers willing to open their hearts and homes to foster a cat and/ or kittens until they are ready to be put up for adoption. We provide the training, food, and supplies and volunteers provide the love and socialization the animals need to flourish.

Fostering is a serious committment of time and energy. It is one of the most rewarding and yet heartbreaking gifts that you can give to these animals. The animals you will be asked to foster are abused, sick, injured, nursing, pregnant, or may have behavioral problems.

You will not be fostering animals that are ready for adoption.

Call Liz 410-438-8150 for info or to register

lvaughn@rispca.com

Sugar AKA Sox - Adoption Update - Pick of the Litter

Beautiful Sugar

It has been about 15 months since we adopted Sugar (better now known as SOX.)

Sox is doing very well…..he adapted very quickly to our home and the other animals. He and our other cat Thinker have become the best of friends, they nap together, play together, wash each other, etc. Sox likes to follow Thinker around. He will meow loudly (this is the only time he meows)to let us know when Thinker is at the door and wants to come inside
We took Sox to the Vet a few days after we adopted him; He was diagnosed shortly after with Hyperthyroid disease. He takes medication daily and has put on about 3 lbs since we adopted him. He is very strong and healthy now.
He has a love/hate relationship with our dog Bailee (mix of an Italian Greyhound and terrier (we think). He will chase Bailee around the house and likes to reach up from the floor when Bailee is lying on the couch and give him a few love slaps in the face. This usually gets Bailee to chase him.
Sox is a very affectionate and loving cat, when he is not with Thinker, he follows me around like a puppy dog, he even listens like a dog. He waits for me to go to bed at night and will jump in the bed and snuggle in the middle, always touching either me or my husband. He usually will sleep through the night with us.
I don’t think I have ever had such an affectionate cat.
I just love him to pieces…I am so grateful that we found each other.
Pauline and Michael

Chance - 6 Week Adoption Update

It has been six weeks today and we are so happy to have our sweet Chance in our lives. Each day gets better with her. She goes to work with Sean every day or just hangs out at home on the weekend with us and we know she loves her new home. She is such a character and she makes us laugh all the time. She loves all my neices and nephews and, in general, loves everyone.
Her official new name is Chance II (our second Chance).
Liz and Sean

*Marvin out on sick leave for two weeks*

Last Wednesday, Marvin became sick and was brought to Dr. Bruzzi, who examined him and found an abdominal mass on his spleen and liver via radiographs. We then contacted Dr. David Sweet who is a friend of Marvin. He suggested we have Marvin's abdomen ultra sounded to be more specific about the mass. The ultrasound confirmed a large tennis ball size mass on Marvin's spleen.

It was then decided by Dr. Bruzzi, Dr. Sweet, and Dr. Finocchio (Marvin's owner) that surgical removal was in the best interest of Marvin, with hopes that the mass was benign and not malignant. Marvin underwent about 3 hours of surgery on March 24th to remove his spleen and nodules on his liver.

He came home today and is still a bit under the weather but happy to see Mr. Bear and all his other stuffed friends and of course he couldn't wait to put a tennis ball in his mouth, slowly but it was a morale booster for his dad.

We want to thank all of Marvin's friends, his fellow employees at the RISPCA and everyone who has sent their prayers and best wishes, especially, Dr. Michael Bruzzi and his staff at Dighton/Reboboth Animal Hospital, Dr. Newell who performed the ultrasound at Ocean State Veterinary Services and Dr David Sweet and his staff at Bay State Veterinary Emergency Services .

Now all we have to do is keep our paws crossed and hope that the tumor is benign.We will continue to update you on Marvin's progress in the days ahead.

He will be out on sick leave for two weeks.

(cross-posted on both blogs)

Duke - the perfect pet for almost 3 years

Duke was adopted in 2006.....
"It's been nearby three years and my husband and I continue (on a daily basis) to ask each other how we were lucky enough to find such a wonderful dog.
He is, and has been from the day we brought him home,
a perfect pet.
He's the most loving boy and we can't imagine life without him.
Fate brought us together and we're so thankful!"
Karen & Rob

Julia the kitten's adoption update

Back in January I adopted Julia from you. She was the little kitten that liked to meow. She has settled right in with our family and she even takes turns sleeping with the kids at night. Everyone who meets her falls in love with her. We can't get enough of her! Thank you!

Sasha the Doberman's Adoption Update

hey this is me sasha the doberman
just giving you an update of my night in my new home it was AWESOME.
i slept in a real nice warm comfy bed with my new sister kate and martial
my big brother doberman didnt bother me at all
he kept licking my face and my belly and i loved it
my new family loves me
my new daddy brought me home my first dunkin donuts plain donut and fed it to me saying sasha you need some meat on your bones
it was just a perfect and great day
my new owners bought me bowls a pillow a harness new collar with a shiny new name tag and my own big bag of dog food though martial trys to steal it from the bag
i went for a nice walk with my big brother today it was so nice
now im pooped whew he sure can walk and run
last night while watching tv with my new daddy mommy gave me and martial frosty paws yummy
and daddy had ice cream and cake i dont bark or whine or howl and
mommy says im so gentle and submissive
thank you guys for giving me a new great home
i love it here and i love my mommy and family
here is a few pics of me in my new home

Grayson Adopted - Pick of the Litter 3/10/09

Young Grayson, who started out in life by being abandoned in a dumpster, got his second chance today when he was adopted by Daniel and David. He had been given the "all-clear" by Dr. Munafo and his eye problem is a thing of the past.
He's more than ready to play with Daniel and David and we're sure he'll keep them entertained with his playfulness.

Dr. Finocchio to receive Community Service Award

Dr. Finocchio and Marvin are slated to be receipients of the Annual PARI Community Service Award at a dinner to be held in October.

Coins for Critters $1,072 Donation

Students at the George J. Peters Elementary School in Cranston met and beat their goal of $1,000 for our animals in only three weeks. Megan Levasseur, a RISPCA Youth Group member and student at the school, hosted the fundraising drive in February. The ongoing coin drive began in December by the RISPCa Youth Group, who range in ages from 9 - 18.

Claire and Maya's Adoption Update

Claire and Maya
We adopted them in December, and I believe one of the women in the office has the 3rd sister or sibling. Anyway, I just thought I would send a picture or two. We absolutely LOVE our kitties, and we kept their names since we are not very creative, but we love the names as well, so thank you for choosing them.

We are also very glad we took them both together, since we kept them as indoor cats, they have each other to play with. They went to get spayed today, so I am on my way to pick them up and thought of sending you a few pictures, one from their 1st day home as well. They love sleeping in a bean bag on my daughters bed, and sometimes they sleep separate, but most times we find them snuggling.

Anyway, thank you!


Take Care,
Jenn

Gina's 1st Anniversary - Adoption Update

Gorgeous Gina, the German Shephard Dog

On Friday, Gina and I celebrated our first anniversary! We had a party specifically for her, and I went to a doggie bakery and bought some special "birthday pie" and "doggie cup cakes" for her and her doggie friend.

Gina has turned out to be a perfect companion. We rarely ever leave each other's side. She has become my "big teddy bear" and comes to cuddle with me -- several times a day, and every night! We love each other very dearly (it took some time, but I have now completely earned her trust) and we spend most of the day literally touching each other -- she often times is laying at my feet while I work!

I even set up a large Ottoman for her to sleep upon next to me in my home office (as pictured) so she may rest her head on my lap.Even in this economy, I use her as a bargaining chip for new employers. I tell them, "Well, why should I work for you unless I can keep Gina at my side?" It works very well :) I earn the desire of a potential employer, and Gina wins their soul upon first meeting. As such, Gina is at my side at all times no matter where I am.

Although when I got her she seemed somewhat untrained (she was called a "counter surfer"), she very quickly grasped new concepts and was extremely eager to learn what made me happy, and would constantly display her desire to learn new things -- she has never once tried to "rebel" against me. It took roughly two weeks of training to get her accustomed to her new lifestyle with me, and then slowly I discovered just how much she was actually bonding with me.

Even 6 months later I would remark to myself, "Wow. I think she loves me more today than she did yesterday." Today she is a very well obedient dog who is capable of simply "understanding" my intentions.

Overall, she is a perfect example of how an older dog (she was 6) can join seamlessly with a new household. Show them love, admiration, and a good training schedule (like joining an obedience class together) and a dog will, in turn, love you.I am thankful every day for having Gina.

365 days of love and more. Here's wishing for many more happy years to come!--Kathleen

Easter Bassets - Adoption Update Photo

Happy Easter from Annie, Walter, Daisy and Tallula

Daisy and Tallula were adopted 1-19-09

and these happy puppies were getting into the holiday spirit

Oreo's Adoption Update Photo

Awwwwww.........

Oreo's photo by Maria Giannini

(left)

Tropical Fish Society of RI - Meeting Wed. March 18

Tropical Fish Society Meeting

Wednesday, March 18th, starting at 7:30:
Speaker will be Tony Pinto, "The Kapuas Kapers" Travels in Borneo.
Please see our site www.TFSRI.net

Standard Poodles Rescued

The 4 male standard poodles who were rescued

a few days ago by the RISPCA

are NOT AVAILABLE for adoption at this time.

We will not be taking applications

for them until late next week.

They are also not available for viewing.

Please do not call the shelter

asking for more information about them right now.

We will make an announcement when more info becomes available.

Thank you for your cooperation.

"Paw" Traits 2009 - Opening Reception Sunday

Join us this Sunday for the Opening Reception of
"Paw" traits 2009.

1 - 3 PM

March 22 - April 18

An exhibit and sale of portraits of rescued shelter animals.

And exhibit and sale of Marvin's original watercolor paintings.

See a photo gallery of last years exhibit "Paw"Traits 2008.

Nala's One Year Adoption Update

Layla (formerly Nala)

Hi RISPCA Workers!

This weekend will mark one year that we have had Nala Lynn. We decided shortly after we got her that it was in her best interest to rename her. She was not responding to her name and every time we would call her she would look upset. We renamed her Layla, and she is perfect! In the past year, we have had so much fun with her. Adam and I can’t imagine our life without her. She is so much better with people and she loves to be right next to us at all times (I even take her to work with me 2-3 times per week). There are a good 10-15 people that she has no reservations about. While she is still skittish, every week we see improvement. She has gained about 8-10 pounds since we brought her home and is as healthy and happy as can be. Her skin is finally much healthier.

When she isn’t sleeping on top of Adam, her favorite thing to do is chase the birds! I don’t know if I have ever seen a dog quite as fast as her. It is truly amazing.

We have been slowly introducing her to children and she has been wonderful, always keeping a watchful eye and loving when they run around with her.

I have included a picture of her from a few months ago to show you her progress. I just wanted to express our gratitude for allowing us to take this beautiful dog into our home.

Sincerely, Lauren and Adam

Update on Nikki the Akita

Nikki the Akita




















Nikki has had a very minor setback. She developed a limp a few weeks ago and could barely stand up within 2 days. We made an emergency trip to my vet on a Friday afternoon. They weren't sure if it was an old injury, a strained ACL or just a sprain. They had no problems with her dosage of glucosamine and baby aspirin, but they suggested I start her on Rimadyl. They also said no long walks for her, temporarily.
I got her home and settled that Friday night with only one more short walk outside. She just couldn't make the stairs by herself.
Saturday morning, after one dose of Rimadyl, and she drug me out the front door at full tilt. She's still sometimes favors that leg first thing in the morning...but by the time I get home from work, she's ready to go. I'll still have more evaluation done on her leg...but for now, she's pretty much back to "full speed ahead".
While on our afternoon walk Friday, she met another neighbor with her baby out in the yard. Nikki went right up to the baby and gave him a big wet kiss. His mom was pleased that he wasn't scared of a "Big Dog". Nikki continues to make friends in our neighborhood. Most of them know her on site and say hi to her when we're out walking.
Nikki says tell you all hello...but she really doesn't want to come back there to stay....no offense. She likes getting all the attention here!
We'll stop by for a visit this spring.

Pick of the Litter March 17 - Chloe

Watch Chloe's TV appearance

Chloe - This beautiful brindle boxer mix

is a staff favorite at 8 yrs of age. She's sweet and social, and is a calm dog. She has been spayed and is up to date on her shots.

Animal Print Magazine Reader's Choice Award 2008 Winners

The votes are in!
And the staff of the RISPCA would like to thank all of you who voted us for us in
The Animal Print Magazine's
Reader's Choice Awards 2008.

See the issue online now!

BEST VOLUNTEER GROUP for the 2nd year in a row.

BEST LOCAL PET WEBSITE : www.rispca.com
3rd Place: www.marvinfund.org

BEST LOCAL PET ILLUSTRATOR/ PAINTER : Marvelous Marvin

BEST PET EVENT (2nd Place) : Howling Hounds Dog Walk

And congrats to our special friends....
Best Local Pet Photographer - Maria Gianinni
Best Dog Bakery - Dogs in Harmony

Best Groomer (3rd place) - Artistic Pet Salon
Best Vet/ Vet Practice (2nd Place) - Dighton - Rehoboth Animal Hospital
Best Overnight Boarding/ Kennel - Delmyra Kennels