Monday, December 31, 2012

Thanks, 2012!

(Roxie, a BDHPI Alum)

As 2012 comes to a close we are yet again amazed what the BDHPI Community has accomplished.

Hundreds of dogs have found new homes. Hundreds of dogs know love, warmth and a loving touch.

We, as Volunteers, have grown. We've all found new friendships. We have found new people in our lives who finally understand why we don't mind drool, let gi-normous dogs on our couch and spend our extra money on things like gas, bones, crates, new dog beds & collars for dogs that aren't even ours!

We've lost this year too...some of our personal dogs and some of our beloved foster dogs.  It never hurts any less, but can you even imagine the crowd that awaits us when our turn is over?

We all move fast, especially the 4 of us Officers, so please know that our hasty replies, short phone calls and frantic pleas all come from a place of just wanting to help one more dog!

So let us all stop for a moment, reflect and say thank you. Whatever your contribution was to BDHPI in 2012, it helped save a dog, make no mistake about that.

Here's to 2013!

From our families to yours,

Lindsay, Bree, Lisa & Kristie

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Gearin' up for 2013! Upcoming Events

Come out to "Big Dog Day"!!! Held on Saturday, January 5th from 11 am til 3 pm at Abby's Pet Place. The address is 6380 S. Parker Rd., Ste 107 in Aurora. So come out & spend the day with our Big Dogs! If you are interested in bringing a foster, please email Becky at beckyhurt5@hotmail.com




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Come out & meet some of our fosters at the new Kriser's store at 14710 W. Colfax Ave. in Lakewood at the Colorado Mills Mall. We will be out there from noon til 4 on Saturday, January 12th. So gome get some sweet loving from a furbaby on a cold day!



If you are interested in bringing a foster or being on for the day, please email Frankie at constelation_gal@yahoo.com



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Got a dirty dog? Bring him to our Wash-a-thon!!! We will be at Unleashed on Saturday, January 26th from noon til 4. The address is 10355 Federal Boulevard in Westminster. We will need lots of volunteers to help wash dogs & dry them. We will also need fosters & extra hands. If you are interested in helping out, email Frankie at constelation_gal@yahoo.com



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On Tuesday, January 29th at 8pm, we will be at Lowry Beer Garden (http://www.lowrybeergarden.com) for 'Quiz for a Cause'!



We will be at 7577 E Academy Blvd, Denver, CO 80230. So bring your team & test your knowledge against the competition!



Entry is $5 per person. Prize depends on how many teams attend. So the more people that come, the bigger the prize!! So challenge your friends & family & let the games begin!!



If you have any questions, contact Frankie at constelation_gal@yahoo.com

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Colorado Gives Day

Support Big Dogs Huge Paws on Colorado Gives Day! On Tuesday, December 4, 2012,

Coloradans will come together again to raise millions of dollars for nonprofits like ours. Last year, a remarkable $12.8 million was distributed to Colorado nonprofits.

Presented by Community First Foundation and FirstBank, Colorado Gives Day asks you to give to your favorite charities through the website GivingFirst.org, an online giving resource featuring every nonprofit participating in Colorado Gives Day. On this website we share our goals, accomplishments and much more.

100 percent of your donation will come to us.

When you give online any time on December 4, the value of your donation will be increased by the FirstBank Incentive Fund.

Donate online  any time during the 24 hour period of December 4 to “give where you live!”

https://www.givingfirst.org/index.php?section=organizations&action=newDonation&fwID=36122

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Holiday Fosters Needed

The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and cheer, but year after year here at Big Dogs Huge Paws we are overwhelmed by dogs being returned and daily owner surrender requests.  We have also seen a pattern that many foster families take "a break" during the holiday season. This combination makes for a very tough holiday season for BDHPI and leads to some very hard decisions of saying no to many dogs in need.

Sadly, this year is turning out to be no different. We are already greatly overwhelmed by our wait list and the literal fact that we have no place for these dogs to go.  Often times BDHPI is the last option for a dog in need.

If you have ever considered fostering, I would love to speak with you about helping during this holiday season! We have tremendous support for our foster families and will help you make the leap into fostering as easy as possible. Please email bree@bigdogshugepaws.com to find out more about fostering!

Thank you for your consideration!



Monday, October 29, 2012

Puppy Up-Denver

Cancer is not uncommon with our beloved Gentle Giants and BDHPI is going to show up on Saturday November 3rd at Stapleton Dog Park to help show our support! We will have a booth so please come visit us! There will be vendors, silent auction and food.

This event is sponsored by 2 Million Dogs.

To learn more or register, visit here:

http://puppyupdenver.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1029077&lis=1&kntae1029077=F3BA06923A9141FAAF1BB70FF04B1189

Kati Harken is our Chairperson and please feel free to contact her here to Volunteer:  kdharken@gmail.com

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Victoria Stillwell- Denver Dog Bite Seminar- Nov 2nd!!!

The BDHPI Officers are very excited to be attending the Denver Dog Bite Seminar on Friday November 2nd being hosted by Victoria Stilwell from Animal Planet's very popular show "It's Me or The Dog".

This conference is geared toward learning the dog language that so many of us miss that can lead to a dangerous or deadly dog bite!

We will all be attending, and we hope you do too!

http://www.denverdogbiteseminar.com/?cp=1

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Areas of Need

Volunteer or Potential Volunteers, We have a few areas of need.

1. We Looking for someone to take over updating Petfinder and the other search engines we use to advertise our dogs. Please contact lindsay@bigdogshugepaws.com for more information

2. Videographer Needed: 1) Quarterly Foster Training Meetings 2) Information videos( ex, how to stuff a kong) 3) Introduction into Fostering. Please contact lindsay@bigdogshugepaws.com for more information. 

If you are reading this and are not a Volunteer but either of these things are of interest to you, please email bree@bigdogshugepaws.com and she can get you a Volunteer Application.

THANKS! 

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Woofstock 2012-Whicita, KS

Hello KS Peeps! We are going to be at Woofstock 2013 to benefit Kansas Humane.  The BDHPI Denver Officers are even flying in for the big event.

Saturday, October 6th
9:30-3:30pm
Sedgwick County Park
6501 W. 21 Street North, Wichita, Kansas 67212

Please come find our booth to say hi!

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Canine Coffee Social- Golden, Co this weekend!

Come meet the big dogs! On Saturday, October 6, 2012 at Full Steam Ahead Coffee (18561 US Hwy 40, Golden, CO). From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come meet our volunteers and some AWESOME foster dogs, you can find out about our mission, and explore volunteering opurtunites!


Enjoy some awesome coffee drinks and hang out on the dog friendly patio. Maybe even meet your next furry family member!

Prizes for interactive "question & answer" about the dogs!

If you need more info or are interested in volunteering, contact Mary Jo at triplemj@earthlink.net

Monday, October 1, 2012

Rocky Mountain Mastiff Fanciers support BDHPI

Many thanks to RMMF for their continued support of BDHPI! They held a recent raffle in our honor and raised over $300 for our BIG dogs! Up next...they are hosting  Bake Sale on Saturday October 20th at the Park Meadows Petco. We are very thankful!

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Eat for Big Dogs in Golden, CO

Eat for Big Dogs! Who doesn't like that idea?

On Monday September 24th, On The Border Restaurant (Denver West location) is donating 10% of your food and beverage order if you present them with the BDHPI coupon. How do you get the flyer you ask? Email bree@bigdogshugepaws.com

Denver West

14255 W. Colfax
Exit Denver West Blvd., off I-70 across from Color
Golden, Colorado
720-583-7780

Thanks for supporting us!

Monday, August 20, 2012

Wine Tasting for BDHPI

Wine? Wine benefting BDHPI? What more could you ask for?

Come join us at Avanti Winery on Thursday August 23rd at 9046 West Bowles Avenue  Littleton, CO 80123

The event is $15/person. We will be having a small silent auction. We will also have a drawing at the end of the evening for a door prize & all you have to do to win, is show up!


Carmine's Itallian Deli at 7585 W Florida ave in Lakewood is going to be providing finger foods for the evening!



Friday, August 17, 2012

5k! TOMORROW!

Tomorrow is our 4th Annual BDHPI Fun Run. Bring the kids, bring the dogs and enjoy a great morning supporting a great cause!

It's not too late to sign up! You can do it on line at www.bigdogshugepaws.com , just go thorugh the DONATE button and pay. Or, you can sign up tomorrow morning. Registration starts at 7:45am.

Address: Clement Park in Littleton, CO. We are at Pavilion #8, which is just to the east of the big amphiteatre that is in the middle of the park.  You won't be able to miss us! You can come in off W Bowles Avenue, turning into the park on Long St (which is right at the Library!). From there, follow the signs.

$25 for single
$50 for Family

Includes t-sirts and goodie bags!


Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Furry Baby Fahsions

Shop Furry Baby Fashions and benefit BDHPI!

Coupon alert! Now through 8/15 enter coupon code "bdhp" for 15% off. 15% of sales will also go to Big Dogs Huge Paws! www.furrybabyfashions.com

Many thanks to the wonderful Julie King for supporting BDHPI through her fabulous collar business!

For those who have not shopped here before, she makes XL and XXL collars for the most reasonable price I've ever been able to find!

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Have you registered for the 5k yet?

Our 4th Annual "Run with the BIG dogs" is fast approaching- Saturday August 18th at Clement Park in Littleton, CO.

Amazing Sponsors & Vendors this year- Garbanzo's, Jamba Juice, 5 Hour Energy, Boulder Ice Cream, Full Steam Ahead Coffee, Wrap It Up....the list goes on and on and on! Visit Foster Alley and bring your own dog and for a small donation we will do nail trims and microchipping!

Please visit here to Learn more and Register:

http://bigdogshugepaws.com/events/bdhp-annual-5k-fun-run-with-the-big-dogs

Friday, July 27, 2012

Boulder, Co Event Saturday July 28th

Join Farfel's Farm and Ripple Pure Frozen Yogurt on Saturday, July 28th, for a fundraiser for Big Dogs Huge Paws!

BDHP volunteers work to rescue, foster and place huge dog breeds in new forever homes. Ripple Pure Frozen Yogurt and Farfel's Farm are hosting and 5% from each store's sales will go to Big Dogs Huge Paws.

We will have adoptable dogs at Farfel's Farm, 906 Pearl Street, from noon to 2:30 pm.



Thursday, July 12, 2012

BDHPI Gala

The Black and White Gala was an amazing success! I am thrilled to announce that this event earned $18,000! Yes, $18,000...we are still speechless!
Thanks to Tyler Polumbus of the Washington Redskins for his generous NFL donations! Tyler & his wife Liz lost their BDHPI Mastiff, Bob, earlier this year.

It was a beautiful night and all of you attended looked great! It was so great to see Volunteers, Adopting Families, Our favorite Vets, and supporters from the general public. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

To the incredible Gala team led by Kara Mastin, thank you. We are so blessed to have you as part of the BDHPI Team. You make us proud!

The Gala Team

Lindsay Condon, BDHPI CEO, giving her speech.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Want to adopt me?

Watch this video and I bet you have a hard time answering "no" to that question!

Meet Wesley:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMN0IUSxDXU&feature=youtu.we

Monday, June 25, 2012

Remembering Hudson

BDHPI is so sad for our CFO, Kristie and her husband Tony, at the loss of their beloved Great Dane, Husdon. Hudson had bravely battled cancer, losing his hind leg a few months ago. Kristie and Tony went to the ends of the earth for their boy and we know they are completely heartbroken. RIP, Hudson!

Saturday, June 23, 2012

Come see us tomorrow at the Hogs for Dogs event in Aurora, CO

BDHPI has been chosen by Deb Nabb of "The Mutt Matcher" as the recipient of her Hogs for Dogs motorcycle ride. For you bikers, it's not too late to join here are the details:

http://www.hogsfordogsdenver.com/Hogs_For_Dogs_Denver/Event_Details_2012.html

For you non-bikers, you can come still join us at McCarthy's Bar and Grill in Aurora, CO. BDHPI will be there at 1:30 to start welcoming in the riders.  There will be a live auction and silent auction.  Come meet foster dogs as well!

The address to McCarthy's is:  15350 E Smoky Hill Rd, Aurora


Thursday, June 21, 2012

Filo and his Friend

This is Filo, one of our Danes up for adoption, and his little friend Rue, who is being rehablitated by Filo's foster mom. Does it get any cuter than this?

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Animal Assistance Foundation Grant Awarded to BDHPI

Big Dogs Huge Paws won a GRANT from the Animal Assistance Foundation to futher our mission and to SPAY and NEUTER all of our rescue dogs! Spaying and Neutering makes a BIG DIFFERENCE in what we do... Please spay and neuter your pets!


Thank you to Nikki for working so hard to help us get this grant! You ROCK!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuD8RCUIqAs&feature=youtu.b

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Remembering Paylar

A tribute to Paylar from his phenonmenal foster mom, Shannon:

I picked up Paylar and Maximus, the Great Pyrs, from their surrendering owner on May 2, 2011, two and a half months shy of their 10th birthday.  “The Boys,” as they came to be known, were littermates and lifelong partners, and they were being surrendered because their owner was having financial problems.  Both boys were filthy; they smelled bad and felt worse to touch.  They hadn’t seen a brush, bath, nail clippers, or vet in years.  It was three days before I could get them in for a professional grooming, and in that time I didn’t even want to touch them because they felt so nasty (and I felt terribly guilty about that even then). 

 When I picked them up I asked their surrendering owner about each of them.  I was told that they had been outside dogs, living in a dog run for their entire lives.  Neither dog was house-trained, leash-trained, obedience-trained, or neutered.  I asked about their health and was told that Maximus had a thyroid problem but hadn’t been getting meds for years, and that “Paylar has a cough that sometimes makes him throw up.”  The first day that Paylar was in my home, he regurgitated 42 times.  Not an auspicious beginning.

On that first day, it was evident that the boys were uncertain about having a roof over their heads; they paced for hours, repeatedly looking up at the ceiling.  It would have been funny if it hadn’t been so sad.  Since neither dog was house-trained, and I lacked crates large enough for them, we started off by limiting them to the dining room and backyard, using tipped-over tables to block further access.  But eventually (and I do mean e‑v‑e‑n‑t‑u‑a‑l‑l‑y!), they were living proof that you can, indeed, teach old dogs new tricks.

 It was apparent within the first week, actually within the first day, that there was something more significantly wrong with Paylar than ‘an occasional cough.’ A few conferences with the vet and a few x-rays later, he was diagnosed with megaesophagus.  After a long series of trials, and much error, we found a formula of meds, food type, and elevated feeders that reduced the frequency of his regurgitations, but we were never able to stop them completely.  He had good days and bad days, and we were very happy when the good days outnumbered the bad days.

 Paylar and Maximus attended Basic Obedience class at the ZoomRoom in Longmont, CO (a loud shout-out to Marnie, the proprietress, who let them both attend for free because they were foster dogs!).  Both boys passed the class, but Paylar didn’t seem to enjoy it as much as his brother did (Paylar was never really food- or treat-motivated, probably as a result of his tendency to regurgitate), so we didn’t enroll him in any other classes.  However, both boys did go on to get their Canine Good Citizen certifications (back then we were still hoping it would make them more attractive to prospective forever homes).

Over the next 13 months, Paylar had various health issues crop up, requiring numerous trips to the vet and frequent treatments at home.  His vet, Dr. Natalie Durbin at Cambridge Animal Hospital in Longmont, CO, was always willing to see him – even without an appointment - or talk on the phone whenever an issue arose.  Her unflagging support is deeply appreciated and we couldn’t have asked for better care.  Paylar put up with the poking and prodding, the squeezing and cleaning, the subQ fluids and abrading necrotic tissue, with the grace and patience of a true gentleman.  When he had had enough of whatever it was that I was doing to him on any given day, he would simply get up and walk away from me. 

Of the countless foster dogs that I’ve had in my home, I can honestly say that I’ve never had sweeter dogs than Paylar and Maximus.Paylar, in spite of his various health issues, seemed to enjoy life.  He was happy to spend hour after hour surveying his domain in the back yard, but when the leashes were brought out he would dance like an excited puppy and wait anxiously by the front door for the chance to explore the world outside.  He was a fantastic ambassador for the Great Pyrenees breed, and giant dogs in general.  For example, a few houses down from me lives a family with 5 children, all of whom were afraid of dogs.  When we first started walking by their home, the kids would run away when they saw us coming.  Over the next year, the kids s-l-o-w-l-y got closer (or, more accurately, ran less far away), and eventually they even braved touching the dogs.  Paylar, with his beautiful thick ruff and long soft coat, seemed irresistible to them.  Everyone wanted to touch him and he was truly happy to let them do just that. 

Paylar, along with Maximus, always made new friends wherever they went, including various adoption events and other BDHPI outings.As time passed we realized that the chances of the boys finding a forever home that would take them both, as well as cope with and understand their extensive health issues, were slim.  While I am quite often pleased and impressed with what some new forever families are willing to take on, I knew finding a forever home that would take on two, senior, special-needs dogs was asking a lot (the boys were, after all, a package deal, and we would never have split them up).  When the health issues for both boys continued to mount, the decision was made to make them permanent fosters.  I think they understood what I was telling them when I said that they would never be made to leave this home; they could stay as long as they liked, or they could go whenever they were ready.  I must admit that I was surprised when, just shy of his 11th birthday, Paylar was ready first.

Paylar spent 5 days not eating and being lethargic, but there was no indication that he was in pain.  On day 4 we drew blood and started subQ fluids.  On day 6 things changed.  His breathing became labored and he was reluctant to get up.  At an emergency appointment with Dr. Durbin, all indications were that there may have been a growth or blockage in his abdomen.  The decision was made to not prolong his discomfort.  Paylar’s passing has left a hole in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to have known him.  My life is richer for having had him in it and he will be missed beyond measure.

Paylar, July 16, 2001 – June 4, 2012

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Nyima Bakery Chooses BDHPI!

The Nyima Bakery has chosen Big Dogs Huge Paws as the "Rescue of the Month" for June! They will be donating 10% of all online orders back to Big Dogs Huge Paws to help in our rescue efforts. You can order these All Natural Dog Treats by going to: http://nyimabakery.com/! Shipping is free on orders over $25!

Nyima Bakery has also partnered with LaCroix Tees (aka Rescued is My Favorite Breed) to make these some cool shirts (http://www.lacroixtees.com/animal-rescue/TheNyimaBakerysRescueoftheMonth/) with a great message ”Save a Life…Adopt a Pet”. Five Dollars from every shirt sold will go back to Big Dogs Huge Paws in the month of June!

The Nyima Bakery is dedicated to helping raise awareness and funds for rescues and shelters nationwide and we are taking this task on one rescue at a time.



Bite Levels

Dr. Yin's Animal Behavior and Medicine Blog
Was It Just a Little Bite or More? Evaluating Bite Levels in Dogs
Posted On: Friday, June 1st, 2012
http://drsophiayin.com/blog/entry/was-it-just-a-little-bite-or-more-evaluating-bite-levels-in-dogs

By Dr. Sophia Yin
Download the Canine Bite Levels Poster.

As the 75-pound male shepherd mix squatted to urinate on the floor just 10 minutes into our consult, I hinted to the owners who were seated between the urinating dog and me, “The paper towels are hanging on the post right next to Ferdinand.” Since the owners were way closer to the paper towels than I was and theirs was the dog pottying inside the behavior consult room, I assumed they would clean up the mess. Not so! So, I decided I’d better clean it up myself.

Although the dog was presenting for fear (aggression) to unfamiliar people, I’d already greeted the dog, he was comfortable taking treats, AND the owners had marked in the preconsult records that he had never bitten anyone before. As I got up to walk past the owners toward the papers towels and the accident, I noted Ferdinand’s demeanor. He was relaxed and still interested in exploring the room. Fearful dogs suddenly can become scared and reactive when the person they’re nervous around changes posture, moves suddenly, or approaches them, especially head-on. Ferdinand showed no such signs of anxiety or reactivity.

Furthermore, although the owners had brought him in on a muzzle, they had asked to take it off now that he was in the room and looked comfortable. They said that he only was fearful of some people. They reiterated that, as the preconsult form stated, he had never bitten before. We decided to let him explore the room while dragging his leash, so that I could evaluate his uninhibited behavior in the new environment.

As I dropped the paper towels onto the floor and then stepped on them to sop up the dog’s mess, I continued to question the owners about Ferdinand’s history. “How many aggressive or reactive incidences does he have per week? How do you handle the situations? What’s his response to your handling technique?”

When all the urine was soaked up, it was time to collect the paper towels and dispose of them. Normally when I’m in the room with a dog who’s fearful and reactive, the dog would be on leash. In addition, I might avoid facing him head-on even to pick up something off the ground. But, based on the owners’ experience, Ferdinand was not likely to react at this point. Plus he was over 10 feet away. I casually bent down to pick up the paper towels. Then I hear, “Bark! Bark! Bark!!” and feel teeth on both sides of my head.

The owners quickly had him by the leash and pulled him away from me so it wasn’t a serious or even scary event for me. Plus, I was pretty sure that there were no marks on my head. However, that didn’t stop me from being peeved.

I emphasized to the owners, “You know that counts as a bite.” I thought to myself, “When you told me he had no history of biting, you forgot to include that you didn’t count the times that your dog rushed a person and grabbed a body part in their mouth as a bite!”

Based on the response of this dog, I could tell this wasn’t Ferdinand’s first time acting like this. He’d clearly had some practice sessions barking, lunging and putting his teeth on skin. A first timer facing the same level of threat or scariness—me leaning over from far away while not looking at him—might run up and bark at me but would just snap or nip with his front teeth, rather than actually grabbing my head like he was trying to taste a cantaloupe with his teeth. If he’d had tons of practice or intent to harm he’d have actually bitten down or clamped on in the same way he does when he mangles his tug toys. Or if he was scared out of his mind by my movement he would have kept biting, even if it was only a soft bite owing to lack of enough confidence to bite hard. But it was still a bite; the owners should have known that it could happen and should have had Ferdinand on leash or still wearing his muzzle.

How could the owners have been so naïve about their dog’s behavior? Usually when people think about bites and aggression, they think about mauling or think the dog has to intend to be mean. However, Ferdinand’s biting behavior, although mild, was cause for concern.

“Some Bites Can Kill”

Surpisingly, even with serious bites, sometimes it doesn’t click for owners. Says, Dr. Emily Levine, a veterinary behaviorist at Animal Emergency and Referral Associates in New Jersey, “I recently saw a 2 or 3 year old intact male English Bulldog in a behavior consult. The dog was staying at the owner's mother’s house. She thought the dog was crated. She went to open the door for her friend who was there holding her baby. The dog saw the visitor, ran straight towards her and bit her legs. The dog bit through muscle down to bone. They owner had a difficult time getting the dog off of the visitor. The visitor needed 90 stitches and will likely need plastic surgery,” continued Dr. Levine.

You would think that a person would clearly see how dangerous this situation is; however, according to Levine, this family had no real experience with aggressive dogs. Says Levine, “The owners had been instructed by Animal Control to quarantine the dog, which they did, but because they never received a visit from the Animal Control Officer at the end of the 10 day quarantine, the owner thought that perhaps this degree of bite was not out of the norm.” In the owner’s view, since the Animal Control Officer didn’t seem concerned enough to make a return visit, the bite must not pose any future threat.

Luckily the owner did seek a behavior consult. “Once they were educated about the fact that this was a very severe bite and after I went through the risk and benefits of a behavior plan, they decided that the risks outweighed the benefits for them.

They understood that even if they were extremely vigilant and did a great job with the behavior modification plan, fantastic results are not a guarantee.

“They realized that this could happen again and that this dog could literally kill someone,” says Levine. “If the person he had attacked was a short person or a child, it would have been the neck he grabbed hold of.” The owners decided to euthanize their dog.

Although aggressive behavior can be modified in a huge range of cases, behavior modification is not like fixing a clock or a television set where you make a few changes and then it’s good for another five years. Dogs are living animals and behavior is something you can never guarantee 100%. Based on her findings with this particular dog and family, Dr. Levine says, “I believe the owners did the right thing. I fully supported this choice.”

Level 1 (pre-bite): the dog snaps or air bites but makes no contact with the person. Now people tend to say, “The dog tried to bite me but I moved away.” I say, “Give me a break.” Humans have sloth-like reactions compared to the speed of a biting dog and dogs have pretty good aim when trying to grab things. If the dog actually meant to bite (rather than just give you a warning), you would have the holes to prove it. Owners should take this air snap as a sign that someone wasn’t paying attention to their dog’s earlier signs of displeasure or fear. Owners should get help before this sort of pre-bite behavior progresses to an actual bite. Avoid punishing these warning signs or the dog may progress to biting without warning. Instead, learn the signs of fear and anxiety that the dog probably showed prior to this situation and learn to spot the common inappropriate human actions that may have contributed to the snap.

Level 2 (near-bite or highly inhibited bite): the dog snaps and makes tooth contact on skin but there’s no actual puncture. Often the dog runs up to or lunges for a person but just puts front teeth in contact with the skin in a sort of near-bite. In other cases, the dog actually opens his mouth and clamps but in an inhibited manner such that no skin is broken. Again the owners should ask, “What earlier signs did we miss to warn us that this could happen?” The owners should realize, the near-bite or inhibited bite could turn into a real bite down the road.


Level 3A: the dog bites once and punctures skin, but the puncture is shallower than the length of the canine tooth. Even though this bite may not be severe, it is still reportable. And painful, too. Reporting is mandatory if the victim is treated in a hospital. Once your dog has actually bitten at this level (or higher) he will always be considered a liability, even if, with behavior modification, he is 99.9% improved.

Level 3B: the dog bites multiple times leaving skin punctures shallower than half of the canine. Multiple bites generally mean the dog is in a higher arousal state. That is, the dog is reacting without thinking between bites.

Level 4: the dog bites once with punctures deeper than the length of the canine (the dog bit and clamped down) or the bite produces slashes in both directions from the puncture which indicates that the dog bit and shook his head. This type of bite is very serious. While any of the lower bite levels should act as a neon sign telling the owners to seek help from a qualified and educated behavioral modification specialist (link to my site), the level 4 bite says, “Man, you should have gotten help three years ago. This has been building up even longer than the level 3 bites.” Level 4 bites are way harder than level 3 bites and now show no inhibition in strength. A dog biting at this level presents a screaming liability to the owners, both in terms of money and family members because this type of bite can kill a child.

Level 5: The dog gives multiple bites with deep punctures. Dogs who bite at this level generally have had practice biting at levels 3 and 4. Some dogs are so fearful that a scary event triggers a high arousal state and they get stuck in a reactive mode, continuing to bite hard.

Level 6: The dog kills the victim or consumes their flesh. It’s important to realize that even little dogs and puppies can bite hard enough to kill infants and small children, just the way little knives can. Dogs can bite this hard due to fear, but they can also bite and cause death due to over aroused play

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Do you have kids and dogs?

Than this website: http://www.doggonesafe.com/, is a place you need to visit.

Don't be fooled into thinking your dog likes to be crawled on. Don't be fooled into thinking your dogs loves your childs hugs. Read, read, and read this site to learn how your two worlds can life safely in one home.

Be proactive! Be educated!

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Thanks, Bel-Rea

This blog is very honored to have been chosen by Bel Rea Vet-Tech School as one of their Top 25 dog blogs to follow!

http://belrea.edu/blog/?p=25

Bel Rea, located in Denver, CO produces some of the best Vet Techs...we know this because the many of our Volunteers have graduated from there.

Thanks Bel Rea!!

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Support BDHPI through GROUPON

Hello Big Dogs Huge Paws Fans! The big day has arrived—our Groupon Grassroots campaign launched today and we’re currently funding a project on Groupon's site:

 http://www.groupon.com/deals/grs-big-dogs-huge-paws?c=all&p=24!


Please help us to FEED the BIG DOGS by DONATING, SHARING and GETTING OTHERS INVOLVED! Together we can make a DIFFERENCE for unwanted giant breed dogs that have been mistreated, neglected, abused and/or abandoned.

As of May 24, over 300 of you have donated! You will never know how much this means to us!

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Rainy Saturday Event- Denver, CO

What to do on this rainy day in Denver? Come see BDHPI at the Pet Expo today!

 Rocky Mountain Pet Expo at the National Western Complex
 4655 Humbolt Street Denver, Co 80216
Saturday, May 19th from 10 am til 6 pm

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Help us Sale tickets to our Black and White Gala

Tickets for the "Big Dogs Huge Cause" Black and White Gala are on sale now.


Volunteers we need your help to spread the word. I need volunteers to distribute fliers (I will provide the fliers) to local Businesses (Petsmart, Home Depot, Murdocks), Cafes (Starbucks, Panera, Chiptle), Vets, Dog Parks, Club Houses, Campuses, and anywhere else you can find.

Areas we need covered:

Thornton

Aurora

Littleton

Colorado Springs

Ft Collins

Please email me if you can help and I will get the fliers to you.

Kara Marie Mastin

kara.mastin@gmail.com

720.335.0089

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Our Groupon Grassroots Campaign starts May 21st


We have been working with Groupon Grassroots, which is the philanthropic side of Groupon. They are running a campaign to help us feed our giants! It will run from May 21st thru May 27th. To help support this fundraiser, go to http://www.groupon.com/subscriptions/new and subscribe to Denver. This will ensure that when our campaign is live you can find us in the email & donate to our campaign with ease.

Our campaign works by getting at least 40 people to donate $10 to feed 10 of our foster dogs for one month. Every additional $40 we raise, feeds one more rescue for a month. Please join us in saving more Giant breeds.

Friday, May 4, 2012

BDHPI Introduces our Wine Collection

We have an incredible new fundraiser that we are so proud of! We have partnered with Benefit Wines to create a wine collection!


The labels have been created just for us! They each feature one of our foster dogs and the back of the bottle features the story of each dog.

They offer: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Malbec, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Below each option you will how much will be donated to BDHPI upon your purchase!

To order on line, visit here: www.benefitwines.com/bdhp

To order via the phone, call here: (978)297-5477

What a great way to support a non for profit and fulfill our needs for WINE!

Have a great weekend!

May Volunteer of the Month- JUDY MEAD!!!

CONGRATULATIONS, JUDY MEAD, OUR VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH! For those of you who don't know Judy, she is our newly appointed Social Media Coordinator. Judy has been maintaining both our regular and volunteer FB pages and doing a fantastic job! In addition, she has located and partnered with a new t-shirt printer that has saved us a lot of effort (and upfront costs) as well as taken over the relationship with the Wine Fundraiser company and running with it, which we are all very excited about. This is all in addition to her regular duties of maintaining our promotional product supplies and distribution, making drool towels, and much more! She is an angel who has truly blessed BDHPI and we are lucky to have her on board!

Please join the other officers and myself in thanking Judy for all her hard work and devotion to our cause!!!

Monday, April 30, 2012

Shopping for BDHPI at Charming Charlies!

Have you hard of Charming Charlie's in the Belmar Shopping Center in Lakewood, CO? If not, you are missing out!!! They carry shoes, hats, jewelry, scarves, purses & SO MUCH MORE. They have so much inventory they have seperate tables & areas for colors

On Sunday, June 3rd from 6-8 pm, Charming Charlie will be closing their doors for a private shopping session for supporters of BDHPI!


Charming Charlies in the Belmar Shopping Center.
7240 West Alaska Dr in Lakewood.

Tickets are $10 and you will receive 20% off your total purchase!
You can mail checks to us at our BDHP PO Box address & put 'Charming Charlies' in the memo field. You can also pay using our online system & be sure to place 'Charming Charlies' in the info field, or you can pay $10 cash at the door. At the door you will get a wristband for the event.

See you there!


Wednesday, April 25, 2012

RIP Pongo

From Pongo's foster mom, Edie:

Pongo was very depressed when I first brought her home from the Humane Society of Utah, not even glancing at me as I hooked the leash on her and led her to my car. When we got to my house I took her for a tour and as we walked it started to dawn on her that she was staying and she started to perk up. After the tour I took a seat. Pongo sat in front of me and lifted her head and looked into my eyes. I swear she was thanking me for taking her out of the shelter and my heart melted.

A short time later I saw that one of my cats was on a chair and I had Pongo approach her slowly to see how they would react. My cat hissed at her and when Pongo took two steps back I could see astonishment on the cat's face. She immediately felt comfortable with Pongo and would pace in front of her, arching her back in an effort to get Pongo to pet her.

 At the dog park, Pongo would walk to greet each human and get petted. Occasionally she would actually interact with a dog! Pongo was old and arthritic but she would occasionally channel her inner puppy, giving us the play bow and leaping in circles.

I don't know how Pongo wound up at a shelter at the age of 10. She was an awesome dog and I hope I gave her as much joy and comfort as she gave me. I am so blessed to have known her. -Edie

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Volunteers of the Month- March & April

We would like to congratulate the winners of our "Volunteer of the Month" award for March and April, the amazing duo, Marissa Knight and Jascha Morton!!!

For those of you who are not aware, these gals recently took over handling monthly heartworm and flea & tick prevention along with dispersement of medications to our foster dogs dealing with both illness and chronic pain. They have been incredibly organized and very prompt in getting the meds out as needed across our 8 state region, which is no easy task.

In addition to this job, Marissa is the keeper of the key to storage and always readily makes herself available to meet other volunteers as needed to get foster supplies.

Jascha also always has not one, but often 2 fosters in addition to her pack, one of which is our epileptic Great Dane, Bebe, who is a permanant foster due to her special needs.

Marissa & Jascha - we just want you to know that we think you are both amazing and we are so grateful for all you do for BDHPI!!! You will each receive a special gift and we'll coordinate getting that to you offline. Keep up the great work!!!

Thanks for all that you do!

Lindsay, Bree, Kristie & Lisa

Friday, March 30, 2012

Colorado Springs, CO Event- Saturday

BDHPI will be at the MEGA Match-A-Thon, an adoption event sponsored by the ASPCA tomorrow!

10am-3pm
Colorado Springs Event Center
3690 Palmer Park Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80909

Buttons & Kona the Great Danes will be there hoping to find a FUREVER family!

**This event is not open to personal dogs.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

BDHPI Fundraisers!!!

Come Shop with Us!

1. Pendents: http://www.lacroixtees.com/Paw-Print-Pendant-Fundraiser.htm. BDHPI will receive 20% of each sale back if customers list BDHP as the rescue of choice!

2. Shirts: http://www.lacroixtees.com/animal-rescue/BigDogsHugePaws/. BDHP gets $5 from each shirt sold through this link. They have sweatshirts, T-shirts, long sleve shirts, tank tops and hoodies in white and grey for sale.

Update on Malachi the Borbel/Kangle Puppy



Just wanted to drop you a note and let you know how well Malachi is doing. I've included a few pictures. He is growing like a weed and has put on 10lbs in 2 weeks. The vet says he is in fine shape and we've already signed up for some training classes. Thank you once again for taking a chance on us. We love Malachi so much and when it's not raining he gets to spend around 4 to 5 hours outside playing with Curtis on most days

Tina

Monday, February 20, 2012

BDHPI Store

Exciting News! BDHPI has partnered with Amazon for all of your GIANT NEEDS.

Shop here: http://www.bigdogshugepaws.com/bigstore and portions of your purchase will come back to BDHPI

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

“Big Dogs Huge Cause” Black and White Gala

Event: “Big Dogs Huge Cause” Black and White Gala

Date: Saturday, June 30, 2012 6:00pm – 10:00pm

Location
: Renaissance Hotel Denver, 3801 Quebec Street Denver, CO 80207




You are cordially invited to the Big Dogs Huge Paws first annual "Big Dogs Huge Cause" Black and White Gala.

The evening begins with a cocktail hour to be followed by a gourmet dinner accompanied by live entertainment and a silent and live auction. CBS Denver’s own Lauren Whitney will be emceeing the event. Auction proceeds will go directly to support the Big Dogs Huge Paws organization, and items include exciting adventures such as spending a day with the Denver Police K9 dog unit or a week in the Cayman Islands.


Donate Items to be Auctioned:

Promote your organization’s goods or services by donating items to be auctioned during the Gala. Your organization will be listed in tandem with the item/service to be auctioned, and any item or service donated is tax deductible. All proceeds will go directly toward BDHP.

Sponsor a Table:

Reserve a 10-person table to accommodate your group for $500.00. A limited number of sponsored tables are available, so please contact us immediately if you are interested. Table sponsorship fee is tax deductible.

Sponsor the Gala:

Promote your organization’s name and support this worthy cause through the following event sponsorship opportunities:

Bronze Sponsor: $250.00

Logo/name featured in: welcome banner, gala programs, table centerpiece/placard, & slide show

Silver Sponsor: $500.00

All of the above, plus sponsoring organization will be mentioned by Emcee in welcome speech and logo/name featured in applicable BDHP email/Internet event advertising throughout 2012

Gold Sponsor: $1000.00

All of the above, plus a 10-person sponsored table and a special recognition plaque.

Seats are $50

You can purchase seats, donate or sponsor by going the "donate" page on our site and specify "Gala", the amount and what specifically you are donating for.

For more information on volunteering and for sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kara Mastin at kara.mastin@gmail.com

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Food Drive Update

Ok our friendly Supporters, we have sold 12 bags of dog food! Only 188 left to go!

To donate, visit www.bigdogshugepaws.com and donate $36.77 to help feed our gentle giants!

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

February Food Drive!!!



It's that time of year again...time to SKIP the flowers & SKIP the candy and instead donate $36.77 to help FEED THE GIANTS!

BDHPI spends over $4,000 per month feeding our dogs! Yes $4,000! Last year we had our inaugural food drive and you helped buy 100 bags of dog food. This year we are aiming high...200 bags! Won't you help?

To donate, go to www.bigdogshugepaws.com and click on the DONATE button. There, be sure to note that your donation is for the food drive!

THANK YOU!

Monday, January 30, 2012

~SPECIAL EDITION Valentine's Day Drool Cloths~ Available for EVERY DOG BREED!




~SPECIAL EDITION Valentine's Day Drool Cloths~ Available for EVERY DOG BREED!

Special Addition VALENTINE’S DAY Drool Cloths are available NOW! You can choose from two wonderful designs: the LOVE My design or the I HEART MY design. Each design can be customized for ANY DOG BREED! Please see the pictures below of each. Each design comes in light blue, light green or a bright orange. These one of a kind creations are custom made!

The towels come in light blue, light green or orange and are 16x16 inch SUPER SOFT microfiber cloths. They are only $10/each + $5 shipping for 1-3 ($8 for 4-6).

HOW TO ORDER:
1. Go to http://bigdogshugepaws.com/donate
2. Donate the total for your order ($10/each + $5 shipping for 1-3; $8 for 4-6)
3. Include a note that your donation is for the Valentine’s Drool Cloths. Be sure to note the color(s), design(s) and DOG BREED that you would like. INCLUDE YOUR SHIPPING ADDRESS!
4. Forward your receipt and your shipping address to judysue3@yahoo.com.

Colors may very slightly as each one is created individually. Please email judysue3@yahoo.com for international shipping rates.

Thank you for supporting Big Dogs Huge Paws, Inc!

PEDIGREE FOUNDATION awards a Grant to BDHPI



Thank you, PEDIGREE FOUNDATION, for awarding BDHPI a grant in the amount of $891. We are so thankful for your generosity!

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Scentsy Fundraiser

We love Scentsy and so should you!

25% of your order will go to BDHPI!

Www.sntorres.scentsy.us be sure to click on the Big Dogs Huge Paws party

Colorado Event this weekend

Pet Club Foster Day!!!!!!

January 28th from 10-8pm

5150 E Arapahoe Rd (King Soopers shopping center)

Pet Club will be generously donating 5% of the days proceeds to our rescue!!!!!

Come meet some of our foster dogs!

Monday, January 23, 2012

Follow up article on Roman the Great Dane

All- Here is the follow up article on Roman:

http://journalstar.com/news/local/big-dog-s-treatment-gets-big-boost/article_e536f75b-c869-5764-9aed-ca225f45a15c.html?mode=story

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Fundraising for Roman The Great Dane

Roman, a handsome 2 year old Great Dane came into rescue and his foster mom, Brit, immediately noticed something was not right with his gait.

We suspect he has Wobblers but to diagnosis and treat can cost over $6000. Brit has taken it upon herself to raise this money and so far as raised the $1600 it will take for the diagnostic testing.

Please read this article written on Roman in the local Lincoln, NE newspaper.

http://journalstar.com/news/local/big-dog-likely-has-big-medical-problem/article_c883c3ca-7bc3-560e-b282-658f5e0ea9ff.html

If you are interested in donating, you can do so through www.bigdogshugepaws.com

GO BRIT!!!!

Monday, January 9, 2012

Fuzzy Update


Fuzzy is an adorable 4 month old Leonberger Mix. She fractured her tibia/fibula and her current guardians were unable to afford the medical care she required so she was transferred to BDHPI. We took her to the wonderful Dr. Dave Matthiesen who performed surgery to repair the broken bones on December 19th, 2011. He put a plate in with 6 screws and her prognosis is good to excellent! She was sent home on antibiotics for 7-8 days and pain meds for 5-7 days. Her sutures need to be removed in 2 weeks. In 5-6 weeks we'll do radiographs to assess fracture healing and implant status. She has to be in a bandage for 2.5-3 weeks post op with no running or jumping for 5 weeks. Fuzzy will require rehab to help her learn to use her leg again and build up proper muscle after not using for so long but she'll be running and playing like any normal happy puppy in no time! Many thanks to her wonderful fosters, Diana and Michael, for nursing her through her recovery!

If you would like to donate to Fuzzy's medical fund please go to www.bigdogshugepaws.com

Thursday, January 5, 2012

We've slipped to 2nd place! Please vote

We are in a hot race with a Pit Bull Rescue to win 10,000 meals for our dogs!

Will you please vote? You can vote everyday.

Mugsy is a very special dog who was adopted at 9.5 years old by a family who was originally looking for a young dog. They took one look at Mugsy's sweet old face and the rest, as they say, is history!

You have to click on this link to the group's Facebook page. Once there, you must "Like" their page and than scroll down to see Mugsy's picture!

PLEASE VOTE EVERYDAY until Jan 20th.

https://www.facebook.com/FetchCorporate?v=app_314221608593606

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Special Needs Stella find a home!


When you do rescue long enough, you can look at a dog and immediately guess what their "popularity" will be like with potential adopters. When I saw poor Stella, I was immediately worried she would spend a lot of time in rescue. Between her black color, older age and leg issues I worried some would pass her over and not really take a chance on her.

Well, I am here to say I was wrong! I was overjoyed when I heard that BDHPI Volunteer Alissa and her boyfriend Doug were "in the market" for a special needs Dane and Stella turned out to be exactly what they were looking for.

Alissa had even purchased Stella a beautiful new collar in hopes the adoption would work out.

Thanks to Alissa and Doug for all that you do for BDHPI! We are glad you now have a gentle giant of your own!