GRREAT Times - Fall 2022

COnTEnTS

GRREAT Times is a quarterly publication of SEVA GRREAT, Inc., an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding homes for homeless Golden Retrievers.

For more information, call our Hotline at 757-827-8561 or visit our web site at www.sevagrreat.org.

To contact the newsletter editor with suggestions, comments, or send materials and photos for inclusion, send an e-mail to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com, or write Attn.: Newsletter Editor, PO Box 8014, Yorktown, VA 23693.

SEVA GRREAT disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors.

Submitting Stories and Photos

We have decided to make “homecoming” a feature in each newsletter to feature dogs that have been adopted from us over the years. Send us a picture (identify everyone in it, please) with your dog’s name, when you adopted it, your name and a few words or more about your dog. Full length stories are welcomed, too!

When you submit your pictures for publication in print, please submit an original digital image of no less than 300 dpi. If you aren’t sure of the dpi, send the original and we’ll check the pos sibility for use. We can make pictures smaller but we can not make them larger. Don’t worry about the file size; if you can send it, we can receive it. If you can’t send it, let us know. We’ll show you a way that it can be sent. Email to: grreattimes@adoptagolden.com

On The COver:

Mark Your Calendar

October 16

Fall Membership Meeting

Newport News Park, 1:00 – 4:00 pm

November 5

Garage Brewery Event

Chesapeake, 12:00 – 6:00 pm

Please check our website for up-to-date information

Website: https://adoptagolden.com

Facebook:

Southeastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue, Education, and Training!

President’s Message A Busy & Crazy Time

It has been a busy, crazy time and I want to share some important and timely updates. By the time you read this, we will have picked up our first Turkey Dogs in over a year! It has taken us months to get our ducks in a row – or should I say Dogs In A Row – to make it happen BuT definitely worth it. Our rescue partners in Turkey have over 100+ Golden Retrievers hoping to catch a ride to the uS and live the dream. We are working with 2 other Golden Rescues to make sure their dream comes true.

Speaking of our website, have you been to our site lately? We have a new website, and it looks GRREAT!!!! Many thanks to liz Hanson for volunteering her time and effort in developing an amazing website for us.

With all our local intakes and the Turkey Dogs we hope to bring over, we have lots of fundraisers scheduled through the rest of the year. Including a Beach House raffle!

GRREAT ADS

GRREAT Times is now offering advertising space.

Rates per issue for various size ads are:

Full Page = $150

1/2 Page = $100

1/3 Page = $75

1/6 Page = $50

A discounted rate for multiple issue placement is available.

Email requests, size and specification questions to grreattimes@adoptagolden.com.

Every effort will be made to put your ad in the desired issue.

GRREAT Times is published quarterly the second week of January, April, July, and October. Deadline for submitting an AD is the 1st of the month prior to the publication date.

We took in a very beautiful and very pregnant Golden named layla. 6 of the 7 pups are black with a little white on their bellies, and a cute variety of “socks” on their feet. Turkey Dog Onyx swears he is not the baby daddy and layla’s not talking. In the last 5 weeks, we have brought into the rescue 17 Goldens; add in layla’s 7 puppies and you can see it has been a very busy time for the Intake and Foster Coordinators. If you ever thought you might like to foster, now is the time to reach out to Jane. Just go to our website adoptagolden. com and read about the process.

One of our very awesome families donated a weeklong stay at their beach house in Nags Head! We are going to have a raffle for 2 very beautiful quilts that Ann Czompo made. Several SEVA GRREAT members have donated beautiful items that we are going to auction off in November. So, think Christmas gifts!!

Thank you for helping us make a difference! We are so very grateful for your unwavering support. With your help, just think of all that we can accomplish before the end of the year!

RuBy

how to Take Great Pictures of Your Pet

by Kailee Capela

Use natural Light

This is my #1 tip! Going outside and using some natural light for your pet’s photos is the easiest way to have consistently well-lit pictures. Artificial light can be harsh, and it can create unwanted shadows. Natural light also helps you avoid that pesky red eye, a result of using flash on your camera or phone. If you have an indoor animal, you can still use natural lighting by taking your photos next to a window. Make sure the animal is facing the window. If the window is behind the subject, you’ll end up with some very dark photos.

Play First

Imagine arriving at the park and immediately trying to get your puppy to sit still for more than a few seconds at a time. Chances are your dog is very excited to be out and about and just wants to play. Instead, take them out to where you want to take some photos and

bring something to play with. A dog or puppy who has been tired out a little will be much more likely to sit still for you while you get the perfect shot. A game of fetch or tug-of-war can be enough to get that initial excitement and energy out of most dogs.

Get Their Attention

Getting your pet to cooperate can be a huge task in itself. using their favorite toy or a treat and holding it up near your camera or phone is a great way to get their attention and keep them looking in the right direction. They even make attachments for your phone that can hold a tennis ball. Find an object that will keep their interest for as long as possible. Don’t forget to reward them for their good behavior from time to time, as well.

Use “Burst Mode” (If You Have It)

Most cameras and phones are equipped with

a mode that takes multiple photos with one click. This setting (also called continuous shooting mode) spares you the effort of out of timing the perfect shot, so you can instead focus on getting you pet’s attention. If you have this setting, I definitely recommend using it. It’s also great for action shots of your pet running, jumping or playing. let the camera do the work, and choose which photo you like best from the sequence.

Be Patient and Make It Fun

When it comes to taking pet photos, patience is key. Keep in mind that your pet may not understand what you are asking of them or what is going on. It may take a few attempts to get the photo you had in mind. Making the situation fun and exciting can help relax your pet and get them more comfortable with hav ing their photo taken. If your pet is happy, your photo will reflect that.

Thanks!

A Dayat the Buckroe Beach Market

Finn

What a perfect day to be at the beach! Many thanks to Michelle Frye Smith, peninsula events coordinator, who set up, worked, and closed up our booth – and to all of the family, friends, and volunteers she recruited. Michelle says she loves this event, because in addition to all the beautiful goldens (including Finn, her first foster) who are there, she gets to meet other dogs and other rescue people. Mary Connell and her dog Barbie won the gorgeous dog bag.

What’s up doc?

by Sharon Cubelo

eterinary Medical Manipulation:

Chiro

Veterinary medical manipulation (more commonly known as chiropractic medicine for humans) is often associated with the term “subluxation” or “putting things back into place.” This is a bit of a misnomer as the restrictions corrected by a chiropractor are in the correct anatomical place; however, the joints just aren’t moving the way they are supposed to. This decrease in range of motion can be caused by soft tissue or connective tissue impingements or bone changes. The doctors will adjust using a quick and low force movement to restore the normal motion within the joint.

Sometimes these corrections can cause patients to be a little sore afterward, and to prevent this, corrections may be done in stages. Once the joint has proper movement, the nervous system will start to calm down which can relieve pain and the body’s natural stress response.

Because the brain depends on input from the body to continue to function at full capacity, limiting motion in a joint will restrict the sensory input up to the brain. This limited information can cause the nerves that aren’t being used to atrophy or shrink (like a muscle in a cast!). Those nerves will then change to pain-sensing instead of motion sensing causing patients to be more sensitive to even non-painful stimulus. luckily, this can

be reversed by clearing the restriction and bringing motion back to the joint.

These restrictions can occur secondary to Injuries from playing, repetitive impact, tripping or falling, sleeping wrong - the list goes on and on. When a restriction is present, pain can occur forcing a change to the natural gait (limping), forcing the body to compensate for this elsewhere. These compensations can lead to new restrictions and eventually a semi-permanent change to muscle and tendon length and flexibility and bone shape. This becomes a self-driving cycle and can be frustrating as things unravel during the treatment period.

An example of this is an injury from playing tug-of-war. The cervical spine may develop a restriction preventing proper turning of the neck to the right. This then can lead to changes in gait in the forelimbs, leading to compensations in the shoulders and elbows. Eventually, this can affect the remainder of the back and later the hips and finally the rear limbs. After the adjustment, however, your pet should instantly feel better!

During the appointment, the physical exam includes testing each joint for proper motion, from nose to toes! Often, a full history of injuries, accidents, and lifestyle will be discussed and goals and expectations for

the family and the pet will be established.

After the appointment, if your pet is an athlete or very high energy, it’s recommended to stick with the controlled activity. Shorter leash walks, or low impact play. It’s not recommended to have a full training session. letting your pet rest afterwards is best, but they don’t need to be confined.

Appointments are often started on the weekly basis to work through the patterns of compensation and to find the primary cause of mobility issues. Moving to a maintenance phase can mean coming in every few months or as needed if something doesn’t seem right.

In the Hampton Roads region of Virginia, Dr. Sharon Cubelo practices as a mobile integrative veterinarian with her practice Copper’s Integrative Veterinary Care, llC. She attended veterinary school at Ross university, and followed up her studies at the university of Tennessee for her Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) certification, Chi university for her acupuncture (CVA), food therapy (CVFT) and Tui-na (CVTP) certifications, and Integrative Veterinary Medicine Institute for certification in medical manipulation (CVMMP). She continues at Chi university pursuing her Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, and expects to complete this degree in 2025.

Copper –To The rescue . . .

wanted to take this time to say a heartfelt thank you to the Rescue. I will not go into the details of my life before I was rescued –I’ll just say that a door closed, and my world became a very dark place. Days were filled with confusion, anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. I began to feel that this old dog’s tail would never wag again. Then one day my door opened a little bit. Someone called SEVA took me in and found me a “forever” home. There are not enough words to describe how my life changed. let’s just say SEVA did GRREAT. My forever home was amazing! They treated me like I was a good boy. And everyone knows how important it is to feel like a good boy. My new family acted like and made me feel like I had always been part of the family. And oh, how the light shined bright! It erased all the painful memories of yesterday. I was able to enjoy the day –everyday. They assured me of being loved tomorrow and beyond. To love and be loved in return is to live! And boy, did I have it all.

I

To SEVA GRREAT - I just wanted to say from

all of those before me and all of those after –thank you, thank you, thank you!

To my family – I love the term “Forever Home.”

I may have passed but I’m never really gone.

Heaven is a place where you relive your happiest, greatest moments. I do not have to

“wait” for you. You all are right here, in my heaven. When the time comes, I will be, and we will all be in your heaven . . . Forever Happy . . . Forever Home.

Forever GRREATful, Copper Boy

Lucy and Ellie conquered a military move from California to Virginia. Going to Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Kirtland Air Force Base, Oklahoma City, and Knoxville. They were professional travelers often riding for 12 hours a day while mom and dad both pulled trailers.  – Sara Wyatt

Here is Daisy Meyer enjoying a late August day. What a beautiful girl! She came from Turkey in September 2019 and was adopted that November. Her mom says she is ‘pure joy.’

Chance was adopted September 11, 2020. He is a good dog and LOVES EVERYONE.He makes us smile every day. Loves his stuffed toys. When we come home he always greets us with a toy.  –Donita and Lewis Miles

Homecoming

Congratulations to Nina Thomson on passing her Canine Good Citizen (CGC) and the therapy dog test from TDI!! Nina is one of the original Turkey dogs, and her parents are Linda and Brian, long time members/volunteers and part of our Board. The plan is for Nina to visit some hospital patients with her newly earned certification.

Onyx was busy training momCGC, CGC-A, Sub-novice and novice.

Bentli enjying the smells while driving down the road. –Allegra

Bear stopped at the sunflower field to smell the flowers.

–Trish and Chuck Thomas

Jordy and Vinny Beckman enjoyed some time in the mountains, taking in the view! Gracie Beckman is more of a home body.

–Susan and Butch Beckman

Camping with Nash!  –Rena and Mike Heath

Dine to Donate at Bubba’s 33

Shelby on the left enjoying play time with my son’s 2 Goldens and her sister, the Chihuahua, standing watch.

–Rodan

Marshy made sure not to overdo it this summer... or maybe she’s worn out chasing and doing things I’m not aware of? She LOVES the lizards on the property!

–Tammi Amick

SevA GrreAT Officers

You elected them, but what do they do?

The SEVA GRREAT Board of Directors has eleven voting positions, four of which are officers elected by the rescue’s membership. The Officers of SEVA GRREAT are President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary. The positions are for an annual term (January 1 – December 31), and if you are a paid-in-full member at the time of the election, you have voting rights to elect these officers.

The President has the duty to preside over all meetings, both Board meetings and Membership meetings, and any special meetings that may occur. She is also the ‘supervisor of affairs’ of the organization. In other words, she has the responsibility to make sure that whatever decision the Board of Directors makes is carried out. She also is ‘officially’ the one to appoint members to whatever committees are required to get work done, although in most cases, members volunteer for the committees in which they have an interest. That’s not to say that a persuasive President is not an asset to the rescue because they are! She also often serves as a liaison to Presidents of other rescues, SEVA GRREAT members, and the public. Before any member can be elected President, they must have prior Board experience in one of the other positions. Our current President, Debbie Morris, served as Vice President for several years and has an interest in other areas of the rescue such as the partnerships with the Turkey dog rescues, events, and fundraising including being the Facebook

rally captain for Give local 757 and calendar contest teams. Our Bylaws limit a person in the President’s position to a maximum of three consecutive one-year terms, and she has one vote on decisions that come before the Board.

The Vice President (VP) has the duty to assume and carry out the duties of President if for some reason the President cannot fulfill her term. Because, for the most part, Presidents do fulfill their duties, the VP position can be a great learning opportunity. The person in this position has the chance to see and understand how the rescue works, what pieces fit where, and who does what! Because the duties are less defined than that of the other officers, it also allows a VP to get involved in areas where she has a passion for our work. Our current VP, Whitney Baker, is particularly interested in the education and

training areas of our rescue. Whitney is in her first term as VP. The VP is also limited by the Bylaws to a maximum of a three consecutive one-year terms in that position. In a perfect world, the VP will be willing and able to step into the President’s position when it becomes available and be eligible for another three years as President. The VP also has one vote on decisions that come before the Board.

The Treasurer has the responsibility for all monies that come into and go out of the rescue. She is the liaison with all our banking and investment partners. She deposits funds into the accounts as directed by the Board and pays all bills. In layman’s terms, she ‘keeps the books,’ which means she records donations, application fees, adoption fees, grants, sales of merchandise, etc. into their appropriate categories, and then she turns around and pays bills keeping track by type of expense (vet fees, transportation costs, business costs, etc.). In the case of vet fees and transportation costs (for the international dogs), she breaks it down by dog! She also does our tax filings, the government forms to maintain our nonprofit status, and any other quarterly and annual state documents that involve the finances of the rescue. Janie Carstens, our current Treasurer is also in her first term. In addition to all the duties noted above, Janie’s passion is saving us money. She is always looking for ways to streamline operations and find savings that nonprofits are entitled to that corporate business may not be. The Treasurer is also part of the voting board and is entitled to one vote on rescue decisions. The Treasurer may be re-elected indefinitely, which is advantageous to the rescue because it is a lot to learn and keep track of from year-to-year.

The Secretary’s predominant responsibility is to prepare the agendas and keep the minutes of the board meetings. Keeping a complete set of minutes of every meeting means having a record of all the matters which have been discussed and decided by the Board. It also involves keeping a summary of the operational areas’ (intake, foster, adoption, etc.) work from month to month. The Secretary may be re-elected indefinitely, and our current Secretary, Sharon leeman, is proof in point of that, as she has held the position since 2015. She has been the official vote counter for the calendar contest, is always the first to put her proofreading skills to the test and processes the microchip registrations. The Secretary also has one vote on Board decisions.

As in many small businesses, and that’s what the rescue really is, members of the Board of Directors wear multiple hats. There’s also that other cliché of business – other duties as assigned! In any given year, it is not unusual to have at least one board position available for a new volunteer. If you’re interested, let a board member know.

That’s a brief overview of what the officers you elected do for the rescue. In our next issue, we’ll introduce you to the directors (or coordinators as they are more commonly called) of the operational areas of the rescue. Coordinators are appointed by the existing members of the Board of Directors and (thankfully) can serve indefinitely. They are also expected to serve a minimum of one annual term, but we are fortunate as most of ours stay for more than one year.

Water, Water everywhere

Shiner & Julie Sydney & Sophie

Archie

Charli

Daisy

Libby & Eugene

We Do enjoy It!

Buddy Mia

Serbet

Ready for your best friend to be your fourlegged running buddy? It’s a great way to get out of the house, have fun and stay fit together. Here’s how to prepare and what to do on your first run together.

Get Ready

Before you start your dog running journey, think about your pooch’s breed, age and health. larger breeds like huskies, retrievers and Dalmatians are born to run. But smaller breeds like schnauzers, terriers and shelties make surprisingly great workout partners, too. Short-nosed dogs though, like pugs and bulldogs, should stay home because they can overheat and may struggle for air.

Don’t run with puppies under a year old because their bones and joints are still forming. And if your dog is a little white in the muzzle, visit your vet first to check their overall health and rule out hip dysplasia.

Get Set

You and your dog both need the right running gear. We recommend a chest harness and a nonretractable leash that’s 3 to 6 feet long. If you want your hands to be free, try a crossbody leash or a running belt — preferably one with a spot for a water bottle, collapsible bowl and waste bags.

You can even buy boots for your dog! But if your pooch turns his nose up at those, just apply paw balm before and after a run to protect their paw pads from salt, irritating chemicals and hard surfaces. And if you go trail running with your dog, don’t forget to check their feet for injuries from sticks or rocks.

Go!

how to Start running

3. Keep Your Dog Close

1. Pick a Paw-friendly Route

Grass, woodsy soil and sand are best for your pup’s feet. But if you have to stick to sidewalks and streets, start with short runs until your dog develops calluses on their paws, and be sure the asphalt isn’t too hot in the summer.

Speaking of heat, we generally don’t recommend running with your dog if it’s over 70 F.

To prevent your pup from pulling or tripping you up, it’s important to train your dog to stay close by your side when you’re running together. Ideally, your dog’s nose should be near your knee, and your arm should be comfortably straight down holding their leash — especially when they’re getting used to running next to you. Also, if you’re on the road, run on the left side with your dog curbside, away from traffic.

2. Follow a 5K Training Plan for Beginners

After a good stretch and a few minutes of brisk walking, alternate walking with short bursts of running. It’s the perfect way for you and your dog to start slow, build stamina and progress at a safe pace.

4. Work on Your Cues

Verbal cues are crucial for teaching your dog to be a good running partner. We recommend being consistent with your commands, like “let’s go” for beginning your warmup, “Go faster” when it’s time to start running and “Whoa!” when it’s time to slow down or stop. Behavioral cues like “No” or “leave it” will also teach your dog to ignore the tempting sights, smells or animals they encounter during your run.

4 5

From with Your Dog

5. Pick up the Pace

Halfway through your run, push yourself and your pup. During one of your running intervals, turn up the jets and sprint! It’s a great cardio boost, and it’ll help both of you build up your speed and stamina.

6. Know If Your Friend needs a Break

If you see signs of exhaustion like rapid panting, excessive drooling, a red tongue or gums, a lowered tail, lagging behind or refusing to run, take a nice, long break. Get your dog to a shady spot if possible, and give them water. Oh, and a nice pat won’t hurt.

7. Refuel Your Furry Jogger

Think about stopping every 15 minutes or so until you have a good idea of how much water your dog needs, especially if it’s hot.

And when it’s mealtime, give your fitness pal fuel for their next run — and all the runs after — with delicious, nutritious high protein. (Just wait at least an hour after running before feeding your friend.)

We hope you and your dog have fun together on your first run!

Rainbow Bridge

A Tribute to Tassie

by Roni Sumner

What does one say when the time comes to let go of the girl that stole my heart eight years ago? Very simply one says, “Thank you!”

Thank you, Tassie, my princess and Velcro girl, for placing your trust and love into me and being by my side every single day since I adopted you at age 7 ½ and closed your eyes forever at age 14.8. I was honored to give you

the gift of peace and dignity.

During our time together, we walked many miles which you hated, trained together which you also despised, explored many toys and romps with other goldens at their homes where you could bounce like a cheerleader and give your special bark while the others did zoomies. Thank you for those memories.

Thank you for enjoying the pampering I bestowed upon you. You were the only one who actually enjoyed the daily brushing of both fur and teeth and the cleaning of ears; you were the only one who demanded snuggles 24/7. You made me feel so special, so loved—thank you for that.

Over the years old age things surfaced—mainly arthritis and double hip dysplasia. No cancer, no coughing, no lack of appetite, but in the end that was enough to stop a good quality of life.

Walks became impossible. laser treatments,

acupuncture, Western meds and Eastern herbs were all used, and they all worked until they didn’t. You limped then could barely move; then came the last day when while you struggled you could not stand, and when I lifted you, you collapsed with the front legs to the side and the back under your tummy. I knew it was time, had known it for a while, but wanted to try one more pill to see if a miracle would happen. I called my vet.

You entered on a stretcher for you simply could not move. Your favorite vet checked you, X-rayed you, gave you an ultrasound, determined it was arthritis and that continued existence would find you lying in your own waste. No dog wants that. The quality of life was not good, so I made the final decision.

Thank you, Tassie Sumner, for coming into my life and a loving me as much as I love you. Even though I gave you the final gift you needed, I will miss you every day for the rest of my life. I love you. Thank you for being you.

BUDDY

We extend our deepest sympathy to the Ministri family on their loss of Buddy. He was 13-1/2 years old and was adopted from SEVA GRREAT back in 2010. He was a wonderful family mem ber and two of his humans pretty much grew up with him. He leaves a big hole in his family. We are so sorry for your pain. RIP, Buddy.

DAISY

Sadly, we have lost another forever foster to the rainbow bridge. Daisy was only four when she came to us in February 2019, and, at that young age, we never expected her to be a forever foster. Sweet Daisy had so many medical issues to work through (heartworm disease, a mammary tumor, severe dental

disease requiring multiple extractions, etc.) She also had disk disease and spinal stenosis, and later developed cancerous masses in two places. If ever there was a dog who couldn’t catch a break physically, it was Daisy.

Where she did catch a break was with her wonderful foster family, laura Noel and John Collamore. They saw her through all of it and made sure she could live, like goldens do, by taking everything in stride and living as a happy girl. We offer our deepest sympathy and immense gratitude to them. Run free, sweet Daisy, you have earned it.

AVERY

Ten years ago, SEVA put five year-old Avery up for adoption—the profile read (among other things) “tall, dark, and handsome,” “thrives with others to play with and make him feel comfortable,” “easily motivated with a little food,” “enjoys butt scratches,” and “is looking for a forever home of human companions and a doggy sibling who will love him for all of his days.”

It could not have been more on the mark. When we went to meet him, he spent the first half hour romping and wrestling with Ika, my younger adoptee from Triad GR rescue in North Carolina, so I knew he had to come home with us.

From then on the two of them were inseparable. They rolled in the grass together, played tug of war or keep-away, and doubleteamed squirrels or deer. But unlike her, he was as needy as could be, following me everywhere, constantly begging for treats, snuggling next to me in bed, and barking at anything unexpected or scary—from doorbells to moving Christmas displays.

Despite his endearing misbehaviors, and because of them, he was an invaluable, loving caregiver to my elderly parents and a popular (if unauthorized) therapy dog for my students, as well as a continual source of entertainment for colleagues, friends and neighbors. Dogs other than Ika were welcome, especially if their owners had snacks, and he had a good set of walking buddies, Goldens and others.

Even as he aged, kidney problems, arthritis and lar par did not dent his enthusiasm for all his daily routines—he kept things happy and playful until nearly the very end, which came in late June.

Although it was such good fortune to have him long, it feels like he left us too soon. I still see his old, grey, hopeful face every time I turn around in the house and—with Ika—miss him terribly.

SOPHIE

We said goodbye to this little cherub tonight. Sophie Jean the jellybean, as she was affectionately called, was one of the sweetest pups we’ve had. Her personality was bubbly and easy-going which made for the perfect combo as an ambassador for SEVA home evaluations. Though she didn’t come to us until the age of 10, she packed a lot of adventures

and living into a short time. Because we adopt the seniors, we average only 3 years with each but were fortunate to have her for 4 1/2 years. She loved walks, swimming and camping adventures and never missed an opportunity to stop and sniff the smells; she was also the consummate big sister to lola. As her hips and general health declined over the past few months, we would be seen around town pushing her riding in her little red wagon. Her spirit was willing but the body could no longer keep up. She was never a squirrel chaser but supported lola’s defense of the back yard by trailing behind and cheering “Yay Team Dog”! Though she leaves a huge hole in our hearts, we know she is in GRREAT company with our pack of pups that crossed The Rainbow Bridge before her. When the time is right, she will send another pup to fill her spot and keep lola company. until then, we will cherish the memories we made with her.

GOOSE

Yesterday we helped Our sweet Goose to his final resting place. Hopefully it’s a big field or beach where balls are being thrown for him non stop.

Goose came to us from SEVA GRREAT. He was a tough case which we discovered was an autoimmune issue with allergies. He suffered from ear infections and Moms cleanings for years. He was badly neglected before being surrendered at age 5. He was so long in foster care due to health issues, he stayed a long time with us and became a foster failure. But true to Golden Retriever personality, Goose emerged from sickly and fearful to a loving companion in our home.

I am so proud of my family for stepping up to care for him for 7-8 years and proud to be part of a dedicated group of dog rescuers who made Gooses life be one of a happy, loving golden. If you have it in your heart and home to rescue, please consider it. The joy and bless ings you receive are unimaginable.

Go get the ball, Goosey! We will miss you.

rainbow Bridge continued on next page

Rainbow Bridge

Contributions

Ann Czompo

Jo Anne Vance

Thanks for caring

The Nautical Dog

Bright Funds Company donation from the VMware Foundation given on behalf of Jeff Smith

Terry & Pat Farley

Steven Rowe

In honor of our wonderful Wyatt

KEnnA

We lost our Golden, Kenna, to insulinoma on Friday. She was a SEVA GRREAT “give up” that we were fortunate to foster, and she immedi ately became our foster failure. Kenna would have been 15 years old in November. Kenna let us know that she had to be an only dog after a few fostering attempts and that we could belong only to her. She brought us laughter and joy every day for 14 years. She has taken our hearts with her. Rest in peace Kenna. – Geirlak Family

Fifth Generation, Inc.

Discount Blinds Inc

Susan & Rob Kenter

In celebration of Chloe and Gracie’s 2 year “SaveYa” date (6/26)

Jeffrey Wesche

In memory of Ginger Wesche - the best rescue I ever had

Bill Quinn

Debra Johnson

Wendy Bradfield Smith

In memory of our beautiful boy Corey

Margaret Chernisky

Richard Burton Forever Foster donation for Annabelle, Yogi, Chewy, Dusty, Susie, Daisy and Maxwell Strong

Liz Fletcher

Forever Foster Donation for Daisy Joan Cary

Sandra Rice

In memory of our sweet Jezabel Christina Tingle

Angela Manz

Connie Brewer

YOGI

Yogi was an old softie and had the sweetest grin. We ask you to keep his wonderful foster family in your thoughts and prayers, and especially Chewy, his brother, who was his shadow and spent his whole life with Yogi. We know their grief will be intense.

Annabelle, who crossed in 2020, was the mother of the two boys. Now Yogi is with her once again, waiting at the bridge. RIP, sweet boy, you were loved and will be greatly missed.

Michael & Janet Savage

In memory of Art Spooner

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Rountree

In memory of Art Spooner

Jennifer & Marc Dauzier

Erv & Nancy Crain

In memory of Art Spooner

Missy & Bill Carr

In memory of Art Spooner

Sandy & Frank Bond

In honor of our wonderful Wyatt

Clay Clemens

In memory of Avery

Ed & Farley Dawson

In memory of Art Spooner

Nancy Keller

In memory of Molly - a beautiful Golden of my neighbors

Stephanie Minbiole-Snider

In honor of Brady

Walter Warren

Julia Pedrick

In memory of Art Spooner

Mitchell Jabs

In memory of Art Spooner, proud dad of golden, Millie Jane Wilson In memory of Art Spooner

Terry Tang

In memory of Art Spooner

Holly Shields In memory of Art Spooner

Lauren Begasse

In memory of Art Spooner

Margaret Strode

In memory of Art Spooner

Lynn Clark

In memory of Art Spooner

Michael Pedrick

Laura Bayless Robin Wilcox

In memory of lloyd E. Mercer, husband of Julie Jenimarie Dahl

In honor of Julie Harshaw for your tremenous help with selling our house. Wanted to donate to a cause we know you’re passionate about

Cole Myers

Shellie Crane

Stephanie Minbiole-Snider

In memory of Brady Snider

Katie and Brian Patterson

Carl Jackson

RMC Supper Club

In memory of Art Spooner

Kimberly Christner

Robert Larson

Charles Reith

Pamela Eckhardt

Thank you for what you are doing for the breed

Felicia Morris

Jodi McNamara

Jennifer Kral

Sharon Breeze

Gracie’s Fund

Elizabeth Wallace

In memory of Arthur Spooner

Jan Brown & Sunny

Barry Barnes

Connie & Ray Sorrell

In honor of SEVA GRREAT and all it does to save Goldens around the world. Damon says thanks!

David Pemberton

Barbara, keep up the good work!

Terry McGuirk

In memory of Arthur Elmon Spooner

In memory of Art Spooner

Peter Cornbrooks

In memory of Art Spooner

Beverly Kiernan

Suzanne Wren

In memory of Miley Ruscio, who left us too early, a splendid Golden Gal Stephanie Hall

Sandra Rice

In memory of my Golden, Jezabel Susan Pyatt

Jack and Jo Snethen Old Dominion Recycling

The Carisbrooke Community

Pat and John Donaldson Elton and Peggy Lane Anna LaSalle

Mickey Wilkins Mary Catherine Foster

MEMBERSHIP, DOnATIOn & VOLUnTEER FORM

Note: Membership is open to all persons 18 years or older.

SEVA GRREAT is a

Name: Address: City, State, Zip: E-mail: Home Phone: Work Phone: This

Address Change

ADDITIONAl VOTING MEMBERS: (E-mail needs to be

Name: E-mail: Name: E-mail: Name: E-mail: REMITTAnCE:

MY DOnATIOn IS FOR:

IT’S TIME FOR YOuR MEMEbERShIp REnEwal

ALL DONATIONS & DUES ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE IN THE YEAR PAID

To Volunteer:

Please have the Coordinator in the following area/areas contact me: (Check appropriate boxes)

and volunteer here!

These are listed in the order of urgent need by SEVA GRREAT.

FOSTERING — A temporary home for SEVA GRREAT dogs before they are adopted.

HOME EVAluATION –– visits for foster/adoption applicants.

TRANSPORTATION — primarily shuttling dogs and/or equipment as necessary. If you are interested in helping with transportation, can you help on: (circle all that apply)

Weekdays Weekends Evenings

EVENTS — helping to hold/show dogs at events, helping with fund raisers, etc.

PuBlICITY — researching and writing stories for media release and newsletters, selling ads for the newsletter, taking photos at events, updating the web site, etc.

MERCHANDISE — to man booths selling SEVA GRREAT stuff at local dog shows / fairs / festivals / etc.

If you are interested in assisting with intake, foster coordination, Golden Days or other areas on a regular basis, please contact our volunteer Coordinator at volunteering@adoptagolden.com, for more information.

Please make checks payable to: SEVA GRREAT

Mail this form with your check to: SEVA GRREAT PO Box 8014 Yorktown, VA 23693

IMPORTAnT nOTICE

If you would like to become a member, please sign below. Otherwise, your remittance for annual membership must be considered a donation.

REQUIRED FOR MEMBERSHIP:

I affirm that I have never been convicted of

animal abuse crime.

Date: Signature:

press For

1

2

If you think you have found one of our Goldens based on the SEVA GRREAT tag or microchip.

To give up a Golden or get more information about our intake process.

3 To follow up on an adoption or foster application, or for questions about adoption.

4

For all other questions.

Before calling, we recommend exploring our website for information that may answer your question.

SEVA GRREAT

Box 8014

Va 23693

Foster Dog Medical Care

YORK VETERINARY ClINIC Yorktown – 757-898-3700

COOKE VET MEDICAl CENTER Chesapeake – 757-547-9421

QuIOCCASIN VET HOSPITAl Richmond – 804-741-3200

ANDERSON’S CORNER Toano – 757-566-2224

MIDlOTHIAN ANIMAl ClINIC Midlothian – 804-794-2099

BAY BEACH VETERINARY HOSPITAl Virginia Beach – 757-340-3913

GODSPEED ANIMAl CARE Williamsburg – 757-253-8199

SCOTT’S ADDITION ANIMAl HOSPITAl Richmond – 804-551-0519

SEVA GRREAT contact information

President

Debra Morris sevagrreatgoldens@gmail.com Vice President Whitney Baker vice_president@adoptagolden.com Treasurer

Janie Carstens treasurer@adoptagolden.com Secretary Sharon leeman secretary@adoptagolden.com Event Coordinators: events@adoptagolden.com Southside: Tracy Harris Schmid southside_events@adoptagolden.com Peninsula: Michelle Smith peninsula_events@adoptagolden.com Richmond: Jennifer Dauzier richmond_events@adoptagolden.com Microchip Coordinator Sharon leeman sevagrreatadoptions@yahoo.com Intake Coordinator Julie Mercer intake@adoptagolden.com Foster Coordinator Jane Krom fostering@adoptagolden.com Adoption Coordinator Chris Walker sevagrreatadoptions@yahoo.com Membership Jacob Kay membership@adoptagolden.com Volunteer Coordinator

Mimi Wormeley volunteersevagrreat@gmail.com Medical Coordinator Beth Rodgers medical@adoptagolden.com Merchandise

Jennifer Dauzier merchandise@adoptagolden.com Fundraising Stacy Saville fundraising@adoptagolden.com GRREAT Times magazine Brad Miller grreattimes@adoptagolden.com

Want to Reach Dog Lovers with Your Message? Advertise in GRREAT Times Magazine and Help Our Goldens.