Monday, November 30, 2009

Serena falls for Quon!

I met Quon while preparing to write my adoption profile. I immediately felt a connection with him: he was playful and cuddly at the same time. I was also struck by his uniqueness: he's a Chinese Crested and has no hair on his body: only head, tail and paws. He seemed like he really needed someone to play and bond with, so I decided to foster him for the weekend. And what a good dog! He already knows how to sit, stay and lie down; a great foundation to build on. He loves his toys and long peaceful naps! He's friendly with other people, dogs and is always in a good mood. It became quickly obvious that Quon and I were a great match for one another, so much so that I've decided to give him a permanent home and we are both looking forward to many more days together. ~Serena, RAPS Volunteer

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Tails from the Road by Shane Burnham


The RAPS Animal Control Officers (ACO) have a hard job, but they take every day in stride. Here are a few of their adventures:

Nov. 1 - RAPS received a report of a wolf-hybrid at large at the Vancouver Airport. Officer Kilburn attended along with Richmond RCMP and a Conservation Officer. Kilborn and another officer tried to catch the dog along with the owner but couldn't do so. A short time after trying to catch the animal the attending conservation officer had to tranquilize the dog. The dog dropped to the ground and was then loaded back into the crate from which it had escaped. The dog escaped a second time during the day and this time was caught and impounded. The animal was reported to be 93% wolf.

Nov. 16 - RAPS received a report of an aggressive dog in a cul-de-sac who was barking and growling at some children and a senior. Officer Burnham attended and was directed to where the dog lives. Burnham approached and noticed the side gate open. A large mastiff-type dog then came bounding out barking aggressively. Burnham coaxed the dog over with treats and had it sit. The dog then ran back to its yard. A vehicle then drove up and the owner apologized. Burnham requested that the owner keep the dog contained to its property to avoid any further bylaw infractions.

Nov. 27 - RAPS received another report of the “Black Ghost Dog” from River Road. Last summer, RAPS received a report of a black German Shepherd-type dog roaming the area of the 20000 block of River Rd. The dog was reported getting into garbage throughout the area. Burnham had recalled once seeing a dog matching the description in an empty lot. On the 27th, a black Shepherd was reported to be in a backyard on the 23000 block of Westminster Hwy. Burnham attended and was shown where the dog was hiding. The man who reported it said he had seen it hanging around for about a month and had noticed it getting skinnier. Burnham was able to capture the dog after nearly 30 minutes when the dog trapped itself under some lumber in the mud. The dog appears very skittish but is in relatively good health.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Santa to visit True Carnivores!

See: http://www.truecarnivores.com/

Pepsi, the little dog with a big personality, goes home for good!

Dear little Pepsi was surrendered to RAPS quite a while ago. He was devastated by the loss of his first family, and took a long time to warm up to people. However, this little dog with a big personality, finally caught the eye of a nice couple, Francesca and Scott. They are loving Pepsi every minute now. Here is an update on Pepsi:


Dear RAPS, Here are two more pics of our little new buddy. He has a brand new little bed and he seems so happy about it. He has been increasingly good and he really does listen when we create boundaries for him. We think he is quite happy. Cheers for now and look at him, so cute. ~ Francesca and Scott

He is one of a kind for sure. He is really happy with his new bed and toys and apparently drags the bed where he wants it to be. Pretty smart dog. Cheers, ~ Francesca and Scott


Saturday, November 7, 2009

Flipper gets a foster home

Our dear rabbit, Flipper, is enjoying life more an ever these days. This special rabbit has trouble walking, but also sports a wonderful personality. One of RAPS long time supporters have take Flipper into permanent foster care.

Have Some Shelterberry Pie!

This fall, volunteers Christie and Eric picked blackberries from the front pen and made, what will henceforth be named as, 'Shelterberry Pie'. The pie was enjoyed by the RAPS staff and volunteers.

Ella Bella Halla-ween

Ella Bella was one of the hardest dogs to find the perfect home for. She is a sweet little dog with a great personality, but she had enough energy for five dogs. She finally met her match with RAPS staffer, Helen, and her family, and now lives happily (and energetically!) with Helen. Here Ella visits the shelter in her Halloween costume.

The Sun Came out Today for Kay and Annie

Kay is one of RAPS' dedicated volunteers, and she is a key component to helping the City Shelter run smoothly. Along comes Annie, a strongminded, little senior dog, into the City Shelter. They were a match made in heaven, and now they volunteer together at the RAPS City Shelter.

Pictures from Barbara -- Thanks Barbara!

RAPS volunteer and board member, Barbara, sent us this great collection of pictures of the Richmond Animal Shelter. There is so much going on over there right now!

Christie's Cousin Pounced on at the Cat Sanctuary

RAPS volunteers, Christie and Eric, recently brought Christie's cousin, Jill, and Jill's husband, Joel, to visit the RAPS Cat Sanctuary. They were greeted most rambunctiously by the resident cats. (Photos by Joel Davis)

Lady Felicity is looking for a home

Felicity is a 15-year-old dog that came to RAPS just a short while ago. She is a lovely dog, with a lot of life yet to live. She is sprightly, yet perfectly calm in your lap and she still has a lot of love to give. She is one of those perfect little dogs that simply needs a great home in which to love and be loved.

Beautiful Little Goat

Last week, a baby goat was surrendered to the shelter. He is being weaned off milk and onto hay before he goes to a new home. Here he is hanging out with his dog friends.