|
Oh my - this is awful! There should
definitely be a
statement/agreement in the adoption agreement that if for whatever
reason
you can't handle the dog you have asked for that we get him/her
back...period, end of discussion. I am heartbroken over
this. Ralph
wasn't even given a chance - if I could quit crying long enough I am
then
going to get angry!
Dottie in Jax
TO THE LIST: Although we are very careful about screening our
applicants,
the process is not foolproof. As a result of what has
happened to Ralph, we
are instituting changes in how this is done and our screening
process will be
even more diligent with all future adoptions. The applicants
we approve are
normally very good people and wonderful adopters, however, we want
you to
know we CANNOT allow this to happen again.
This story made me cry for that poor little guy. Who can blame you for
being
stricter, after this sicko got through all your hard efforts. How
selfish.
*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*
Marsha
Delaware
DOTTIE CULBREATH wrote:
Oh my - this is awful! There should definitely be a
statement/agreement in the adoption agreement that if for whatever
reason
you can't handle the dog you have asked for that we get him/her
back...period, end of discussion. I am heartbroken over
this. Ralph
wasn't even given a chance - if I could quit crying long enough I
am then
going to get angry!
You know, why was the vet so agreeable to putting Ralph down? He
should have
put brakes on that, I would have thought. Doesn't make sense.
*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*
Marsha
Delaware
We would like to establish a Special Veterinary Fund in Ralph's memory.
All
contribuations to this fund will be earmarked for the dog's who have
suffered
the most in the mills: the Older Ones, the Maimed and Wounded, those
like
Ralph , who need a little more help. These dog's are taken care of
regardless, but this a way to Honor Ralph's memory. We'll provide
details
later in another post, and his story will be on the Web-Site.
*****Please for any member who has adopted a PMR dog, and finds that
they are
unable to cope, take the time or the dog doesn't work out for their
family,
PLEASE, PLEASE contact a TEAM MEMBER so we can have a chance to bring
the dog
back into Rescue. These dog's deserve this chance.******
This has GOT to be the lowest of the low! What a thoughtless,
heartless individual to do such a thing. I know that people are
sometimes (actually most times) anxious to find out about adoptions
after applications, but this just points out the need for extra care in
placing this babies. Perhaps this will enable the prospective
"moms and dads" to be a bit more patient. My prayers are
for Ralph!
---
Cindy E.- Farmington, NM
I actually remember reading that
post about Ralph finally getting home.
This woman seemed so happy to finally have him. As I sat here
reading what
she had done to him, I couldn't help but think "what makes a person
do
things like this?", and "did she actually think she had no
other choice than
to have him put down?". I am curious as to why her vet even
out Ralph down
(what with the mandate and everything). Is it possible that
charges can be
brought against her and her vet for doing this? If she signed a
contract
stating that she would not have him put down, I would think this is a
possible route for PMR to take. Who really cares if she is going
to leave
the list?! That won't bring Ralph back so he can at least have a
real
chance at life (like he was supposed to have with her).
It's people like her that make it harder for the
good-hearted people to
adopt. Because of her, these dogs, who are in desperate need for
new,
loving, forever homes, will now have to wait even longer. More
rigorous
screening must be done, and therefore, the wait will be longer.
I've seen
how hard the waiting is on the new mommies and daddies... imagine how
hard
it is on the rescues!!
Dana
When I adopted Dancer last year their is a
statement/agreement in the
adoption agreement that if for whatever reason you cannot keep the dog
you
are to get back to PMRescue. I thank that that would still be in
the
agreement. If so that means that she broke the agreement. I can't
see anyone
doing that to anything. I have took furbabys in so this would
happen to
them. I had a Boston terrier to live 7 years after the Vet said it
would be
best to but to sleep. She had Heart worms real bad. I had a
cat that lost
all her hair and stop eating. The Vet said sleep and I wouldn't
give up on
her so I force feed her and she came back and live a long life after
that.
The Vet could not believe his eyes when he look at her. So I say
try
everything you can to save them because you don't know what Love and
tinter
care can do for them. I love my babies and I can't see anyone
doing this to
one. I don't know what she was thanking about. She new what
Ralph was like
and the care he would take to care for him. I am sorry that this
happen you
everyone one the list I know that we do everything we can to help these
furbabys. I know that now to adopted will take a longer that
before. So
please be passion will them they want the best for you friends. I
know how
hard it is to wait you your baby. I have been their and it not
easy to do.
I keep Gail going with Email to fine everything I could on Dancer.
The wait
was worth it he is the love of my life. Right now he is on my desk with
me.
Dancer has to with me everywhere I am. I know that PMRescue does
their best
to fine the best home for the furbabys.
I can't tell you how sorry I am that Ralph wasn't given a chance to
live life to the fullest after what he had been through.
That "person"????? would probably put her children on the
street if
they didn't live up to her expectations. Our Coco, who has AKC
papers a mile long, looks a lot like Candy. We wouldn't trade her
for the world and have had her for 6 1/2 years and hope we will have
her many more. I spoke to Anita the other day for my interview and
can't see that anyone would have any problem with more and deeper
investigation. Anita by the way is a wonderful person and I
enjoyed
my talk with her. I am waiting to hear where Max will be going and
looking at some of the new yorkies. As they say on the Yorkie Fun
Board "All paws crossed here for Ralph".
Marilyn Flores, Chip, Coco & Copper
Kissimme, Fl
I was so upset when I read the post concerning
Ralph. I love all dogs, but
have a special place in my heart for yorkies. My first two yorkies were
far
from perfect, but they are beautiful to me.
How could someone do something so terrible? Every dog deserves a chance
no
matter how old. I hope in the future that I will be able to give a
senior
yorkie a home. Just to know that they will be treated well, if only for
awhile.
I'm sorry that Ralph couldn't offer the perfecton that this woman was
looking
for. I hope that PMR is able to find a way to prevent this from
happening
again. I know you all work so very hard to find good homes for these
dogs. By
adopting to people all over, you have to put a lot of faith in people,
since
it is difficult to actually tell about people without meeting them and
getting to know them.
Please keep up your wonderful work of finding these dogs a new home. I
know
that the members of the PMR team will find a way to prevent this from
happening again even if it means putting even more of their own personal
time
into it. If there is anything I could do to help her in my area, please
let
me know.
Kristan
Kayli, Cody, & Gabi
Well I think something should and must be done this
is not acceptable
behavior. Someone should lock her in a cage and made to see how Ralph
felt.
And made to feel like it was when he finally arrived home then only to
treat
as badly as the final result. Yes I'm angry very very much so, too the
point
that I can not see straight. My poor husband is beside himself seeing
how
angry I be. GRRRRRRRRRR spitting nails
Ruth M.Henthorn
Oh my goodness ....I just read the story about
Ralph. That
woman
has "issues". I got a chill reading it.....how very very
sad for
Ralph. How very sad for PMR. How very sad for us all.
~Beth
How terribly sad :((( The only consolation is that
Ralph probably received
more love and attention in the last week of his life than he had his
entire
life, and at least he is no longer suffering under the hands of the
miller.
It's such a shame that Linda felt she had to lie about all this--He's
better
off out of her hands too!!!!
Heidi
This makes me very sad, for both my little guys are
old puppy mill refugees.
Poor Ralph deserved so much more. I know that it will make
everything
more complicated and will make the adoption process take longer, but I
don't see what else you can do. I just hope that it doesn't happen
again,
and that the one-day mom is disgusted with herself.
Linda Lirette, Sam & Buster
Subject: [PMRescue] A Story That Needs To Be Told- *** Hankie Warning***
Kathy, you took the words right out of my mouth. We should be twins - we
give
our all to our furkids, and pray for those miracles. I am devistated
when it's
time to let go. They are then cremated and buried in my backyard pet
cemetary,
with a large engraved headstone. They deserve to be memorialized, as
they gave
me so much special love. I am appauled at the idea if this uncalled for
euthanasia, but beyond words at the thought of leaving his body. She
probably
didn't even tell him goodbye or hold hime. Ralph, you really had several
hundred
forever moms who loved you from this list!
Carol in Toledo
This just sickens me. Poor Ralph, he endured so much and
obviously had such hope for his final days, only to be destroyed. This
is as big a tear-jerker as the puppymills themselves are. What a
travesty of justice.
~Sara & Darcy in
MN~
http://www.puppymillrescue.com
Rescue one....until there are none.
It is a shame that she didn't contact PMR, I'm sure
someone could have been
there that day to pick him up, or even leave him at the vet's office for
one
of us to pick him up.
Linda Lirette, Sam & Buster
http://www.puppymillrescue.com
This just goes to show us all that you can NEVER
take too long in screening
for these babies. And even as careful as we are you can never even
imagine
how someone (a current pet owner) could do something as horrible as
this.
What I don't understand is why wasnt PMR notified? All of us have
read the
messages from people anxious for new pups, there were plenty of
prospective
parents awaiting adoptions who would have gladly taken Ralph. I
was one of
them. This just breaks my heart! As I'm sure it does everyones.
Please let
us all keep Ralph in mind when it seems to be taking awhile to get our
applications processed, our pups home, and answers to our questions on
specific pups from the rescuers. These pups ARE worth it!
And our
commitments to them should be NO LESS than the commitments we make to
our
families, in sickness and in health, they love us unconditionally, we
should
do the same. (Linda Bowman.... that's also a name I will always
remember.)
Cheryl, Dee, Sammie, Dandy & Melissa(Gidget)
One Dog At A Time....
http://www.puppymillrescue.com
A Big Hello To All The PMResuce Members,
I have actually been on this list of a while, but wasn't sure how to
introduce myself. But today when the post about Ralph
came I decided to say something. I originally applied for Bucky
the
Toy Fox Terrier. I was interviewed by both Rhonda Ross and Marilyn
Crook about him. I had several email exchanges with his foster
parent
Gail and determined that he would not be comfortable in my home. It
was a hard decision since I know Toy Fox Terriers very well, but in
the end I was more concerned for Bucky than my own feelings. When
I
read about Ralph, I didn't cry I just felt very sick to my stomach
and
then I got mad...really mad. How dare this woman think that a dog
living under unimaginable conditions for most of his life think that
she was getting a "beauty" of a dog. All of these dogs
come with
some
kind of problem. Is there any way possible when interviewing the vets
to find out if that person has ever had senior dogs/ones with long
term illnesses and how they managed these situations? If there is a
place in heaven for people who truly care for animals, then there
must
be a place in you-know-where for the woman who was given the
opporunity to give Ralph a better forever life. Hope she won't be
able to look herself in the mirror ever again without thinking about
him. Thanks all for letting me vent, it doesn't happen very often but
when it does--look out.
Kathy Stump
and the Toy Fox Terrier gang
Vicki, how tragic! How very discouraging!
All the dogs' stories are heartbreaking, but this is the worst of all.
Please, please bear in mind that every rescue has made a bad placement.
There are no guarantees in this life. Every once in a while a
candidate will look perfect on paper and sound great and have superior
housing. And still be a heartless idiot with the moral commitment
and brains of a flea.
You do the best you can. There are no foolproof systems.
As for the adopter, there are no words for my contempt and loathing for
this creature. My heart goes out to her family.
" YES, The PMR Contract does state all of this, I know we will be
re-working
the contract to state more specifically and spell everything out in
even
more detail."
Vicki,
What about adding a stiff financial penalty to the contract if the
applicant
fails to perform as stated in the contract? I know it won't help
in Ralph's
case because no amount of money will bring him back, but perhaps it
would
put more emphasis on the words. Maybe the applicants would really
understand how important it is to abide for all aspects of the contract,
and
maybe they would realize that we also stand behind the contract. Ready
to
enforce it! ??
Cheryl, Dee, Sammie & Dandy
One Dog At A Time....
http://www.puppymillrescue.com
I just read the sad story about Ralph and I am balling at my computer.
I had
to put my yorkie to sleep on May 5th. He was almost 16. It
was the hardest
thing I have ever done. I held him tight as he took his last
breaths. He is
buried in the back yard under a hydragena bush.
After all the heartache I went through, I am nauseous thinking that
someone
could so easily put a pup to sleep and leave it for the vet's disposal.
Ralph had a horrible life and she gave up on him without giving him a
chance.
And, with the resources that PMRescue provides I find it
unforgivable that
she didn't give you all a call.
My thoughts and prayers are with Ralph..... Andrea
I cannot believe
someone would go through what it takes to adopt a dog from PMR - knowing
PMR is trusting them with the saved dog already tourchured for years in
a mill - to be put to sleep one day after finally getting him.
This
women is a loser and possibily a miller herself. Maybe she bought
him thinking he still had some good sperm left??
I
am telling you...........the more I read the more I hate people. !!
How do these people sleep at night. Not even a phone call to PMR -
not even a decent buriel??!! She is the animal.
I
am sick with disguest.
Denise
from Carmel
I found myself wanting to reply to so many posts about Ralph
tonight, so I thought I'd just combine them into one.
As heartbreaking as this situation has been, I felt an
overwhelming gratefulness, reading all the sensitive &
caring posts about little Ralph tonight. He was a precious,
& innocent victim. It hurts to think of that poor little guy
& what he had to experience , but the comfort I take is
remembering all of you & how deeply you love & you give of
yourselves to these babies. I'm so thankful that we can all
share in this time of grief & hopefully of healing also.
If only we were able to heal precious Ralph. Well, he is a t
the bridge & I know of a particular person that will not be
crossing it!
Jeannine McCollum
Adoptme application processor
http://www.puppymillrescue.com
I remember the day that she posted the message about Ralph
medicalcondition and I know I prayed to help her and little Ralph for
aspeedy recovery. I thought to myself how lucky she was to be
grantedthe gift on having another dog in her life. I only wish we
could haveknown.Seeing Ralphs picture tore me up inside, I can only take
comfort inthe fact that Jean really provided his happiest days!!
He did get tofeel the ground, he did get to see the sunshine, he did get
to sleepin a warm bed and he did feel love!!Heather
I just don't understand what goes through peoples
heads?!! I have spent
many hours crying my eyes out over these little creatures, but now I'm
to
the point of always getting angry. I made the decision to
rescue/adopt my
Missy (yorkie) last July. She was almost 10 years old, very
malnourished,
flea infested, and had no love given to her. After getting her all
fixed up
(spayed, tested for everything, shots up to date, and a little love),
she
acts like she is the same age as my other 2 yorkies (3 years old).
She was
the ugliest little thing then, but with all the love I have given her,
she
has become such a beautiful little thing.
I know that when I am ready to adopt a PMR baby, I will be ready.
Right at
the moment I'm living in an apartment, but as soon as I get the
opportunity
to buy a home (with a huge yard), I want to start looking into
rescuing/fostering a little one. Right now all that I can offer is
my mouth
to spread the news of PMs and a little extra food. By the way, who
do I
send extra food to?
Karen@SAN ANTONIO
<< Is there a picture of Ralph somewhere so that we new members
could see
him? >>
I do not know if I got one of him while he was here or not. I will
definitely get all these rolls of film developed so that we know.
I am so
behind on getting film developed but will make sure to get it all caught
up
ASAP and if there is one of him in there, I will get it to the list.
He was
a sweet boy and it has broken not only my heart but my whole families,
as we
all played some part of tending to him and his no-so "huge"
wound. If I am
not mistaken his new mom was a nurse, she should have known this boo-boo
would heal in time with a LITTLE bit of TLC. I am so sick over
this, I
helped get him to her. There was NO WAY anyone could have known
she would do
this. She called me several times just to check on how his
transport was
going and exactly when he would be here and then home to her. What
a CON!
Ok, off my soapbox, I can feel my blood pressure rising!
Amy Davis
Chattanooga, TN
Moderator and Transport Coordinator
I'm so sorry that this happened. Sometimes people
fall through the cracks
when screening. It's impossible to be airtight. I know you have an
intense
screening process from what I see on the site. I think that the only
thing
left to do would be require rescue have the vet's signature on the
contract
that they acknowledge the animal can not be euthanized unless it is
first
discussed with the rescue. I know people can always go to another vet
and
change pet names, but it might help. You've probably already been on
this
train of thought, but you know I always have two cents waiting.
Take care,
Eilleen
When I got home this evening, I had 258 emails in
my box, which has
taken me 2 hours to read. By the time I had read the majority ( I
started with the most recent), I already knew what happened to Ralph.
I had made up my mind that I could not read the actual story itself.
But when it came up, I felt I owed it poor Ralphie to read it. Now I
am crying so hard that my heart is broken. I'll not be able to sleep
tonight, as I can see this poor aching face, looking at the vet who
put him to sleep with eyes that must have begged for one more chance
to love somebody, anybody. Just one more chance. I personally hold
this vet as responsible as this woman who promised to love and care
for him forever. He must have had a clue that this baby would have
been loved by someone else! Even one of his vet techs or customers, or
even his home until someone could be contacted.
I know that he probably has many animals that are in need, but what
does 1 phone call take? Once she left Ralphie with him, he was his
owner, she gave up that right. Yet he chose to go thru with the
euthanasia. I pray that not all vets are like this one. He had a
choice, and in my book, he made the wrong one.
God speed Ralphie. We'll all meet you at the bridge someday, be ready
for hugs and kisses that you never got her on earth.
Nan (Alias Ms. Magoo)
Please Support Macular Degeneration
And Other Vision Loss Research
www.puppymillrescue.com
I am very saddened about Ralph. He basically had no time. I had been
wishing
to adopt him myself, but his adoption was already in the process when I
came
on the scene. Poor little guy.
Nellie
Christ, my all <><
I was sadden to hear about Ralph. Linda made
a bad mistake and she will have to live with it. The problem wasn't
Ralph was old. He was sick, tired from the trip. He need time to
adjust in a quiet place, sleep, some strained meat baby food, plenty of
water would have helped. She should have never taken him if she
wasn't ready for the commitment. The messages tell it all. There are no
surprises. Health, fear and strangeness can try these dogs. You
have to give them space, time and love - from a distance if necessary.
We all hope that anyone who pushes that button understands that.
It won't be easy but it can be done and Boy! the rewards are well worth
it. PLEASE. If you take one of these babies, do as
Cindy did for HB when she found that it couldn't work and contact PMR
and return the dog. It's not that you or the dog are bad, it's
just the combination doesn't work. Maybe by taking and returning
the dog you have helped by adding new information about that dog and
thus help to get him into the more perfect home. This
relates to puppies as well as seniors. When an animal has lived
under bad conditions. Things take time. Joyce &
the Seniors (I won't be without them.)
Vicki: I am sitting here shocked, and
disgusted, not to mention
very sad after reading the message about Ralph/Alex. I remember
her
posting the message about him being a very sick dog, and I did not
like the sound of her message at that time. What a awful thing to
do, I just can't believe it, it is beyond my comprehension to think
someone would do this, but I also know there are those that do just
this sort of thing. I don't blame you a bit for having to make
changes to the adoption process. Again I am outraged!!!. Is there
anything that can be done about what she did to poor Ralph? I
thought there was a written agreement when adopting referencing not
giving away or disposing of Etc. I am so very sorry this has happened
here at PMR, I thought everyone was one the same page, and never
dreamed anyone would do this sort of thing here with one of these
poor babies. Poor little Ralph, he was set free just to be sent to
his final demise....God it makes me sad. I won't forget this one
ever.
Vera Milton
Carmin, Ginger and Tara
I have been heartbroken for the last Two weeks, since I discovered the
awful
unthinkable truth about our Ralph, and I do mean OUR Ralph.
This tiny dog belonged to everyone here on PMR list, since the day
his
picture went up on our website, it has been the most difficult time for
me
loosing our baby.
I thank all of you who have responded to his story, your words will be a
memorial to him, this cute little dog who deserved so much more.
Ralph we all loved you, and we would have done anything anything to save
you
if ONLY we had known.
I am so sorry Ralph.
Jean Jones
I don't think you have any reason at all to feel bad.
I agree with
Mary, Tom & Liz, and everyone else. At least you know enough
that you still
have PMR to help you. I remember reading your posts about how
anxious you
were to her her, and how happy you were once you got her. All of
us on the
list know how much you love her, and we know you only want what's best
for
her as well as your family. I'm sure I can speak for all of us on
here when
I say "thank God you didn't pull a Linda Bowman!". You
have enough love in
your heart, and enough brains in your head to know that you have other
options open to you (and to Honey Bear).
With the option you've chosen, you can look at this
in a way that Linda
Bowman never can... if it comes to Honey Bear being placed in a new
forever
home, at least you'll still be able to see her and pet her, and bring
her
presents. Linda, on the other hand, has to deal with the guilt of
her
reprehensible actions (IF she is even capable of feeling at all), and
from
what I've read, she will be loathed by everyone on this list. She
has done
exactly what we are all trying to prevent, and did it while stabbing us
all
in the back. You have not. You're doing the right thing.
Dana & Abby
> it was obvious this woman had a hidden
agenda, or maybe agenda isn't the
> word, but she was probably more into looks than personality.
I'm just wondering if she was all there. It seems very strange that she
speaks of her anguish for several sleepless nights when she had him less
than
a full day it seems. I, too, wondered at her posting of the supposed bad
condition he arrived in. It just didn't seem logical that he traveled
like
that without someone noticing something before. I feel angry and cheated
of
what should have been a better time for him and that such a person
treated
him so crudely.
Nellie
Christ, my all <><
In a message dated 6/14/00 7:09:48 AM Eastern
Daylight Time, binsmom1@aol.com
writes:
<< I, too, wondered at her posting of the supposed bad
condition he arrived in. It just didn't seem logical that he
traveled like
that without someone noticing something before. >>
Nellie, that is one good point, since Ralph was seen by several people
on
this Transport, and even was with several list members along the way and
not
one time did anyone see a real danger for him. Yes all of PMR was
cheated,
but most especially the other's who had applied for him .
I can't even imagine someone doing this...he never
even had a chance...some
people have no heart....it would be nice if she could be held liable???
Donna Bentley
I am dealing
with this right now on my own. I do any/all breed rescue here in
WI. A shelter I have a great working relationship with called me
last Thursday. A pup was adopted from there about 6 months ago.
"Copper" was fully vetted, but a car accident claimed the life
of his beloved mommy, and his dad could not deal with the care of Copper
AND the 3 other dogs (all seniors). Copper was brought back to the
shelter, as Dad felt he was most adoptable. I helped Dad place 2
of the others safely into breed rescue, and the 13 y/o Doxie/Yorkie
stayed with him. I have been paying 50% of "Nickers"
insulin for his diabetes, because we agreed he was pretty unadoptable
with his health issues.
ANYway....
Copper was adopted out again from the shelter to people who should not
be allowed to breed, much less have a pet, IMO. Well, Copper was
"being obnoxious" and they were drinking... they let him out
of their trailer (NO SUPERVISION, NO FENCED YARD), and he got hit by a
car... the owners were passed out. Copper was taken back to the
shelter the next morning. His pelvis has 4 fractures, and a hernia
that was severe enough that he could have had strangled intestines at
any moment if he moved wrong. The shelter staff could not come up
with the funds to "fix" him up, but they knew someone would
want this sweetie. This is where I got my call.
Copper
is now a member of my rescue. He had surgery this morning.
After speaking with the vet yesterday, I could have had him put down....
it was bad. I asked the vet specifically "Does Copper stand a
chance of living a healthy, close to normal life?" His answer
was, "with the hernia surgery and rest and love, he will be just
fine. Not "perfect", but a great dog for a family."
I got some flack, as he is a mutt. Who cares.... he is a
sweetheart. He deserved a chance.
Mill
dogs are in a similar condition... they have been through hell, and they
wear their battle scars not only on the outside, but inside as well.
When someone applies to adopt, they are told UP FRONT what
ailments/quirks/deficiencies a PMR dog has. If they choose to
follow through with the adoption, they are accepting that.
It
just boils my blood when someone pulls the stunt that was pulled on poor
Ralph. As a new mommy about the same time, I knew PRETTY MUCH what
Mavis was like.... I just left my mind open to the fact that my
preconcieved ideas might not be what the actual were. I was
right... she was taller than I thought, and more springy than I
thought.... but she is still here. We deal with it.... and she is
calming down..... she is not going to go anywhere. I was told she
was "bouncy". If one were to adopt a child, and that
child had something wrong with it, would they send it back or have it
killed? I somehow doubt that.
**This
house is protected by killer dust bunnies.
Being the Mom to 8 mill rescues(all mini schanzuers),
I can't IMAGINE not
accepting each and everyone of them with their little quirks, issues
etc...We
never know upfront what baggage these animals carry, but once we have
agree
to open our hearts and home to them, I could never forsee
"throwing in the
towel" at any point let alone after 24 hrs. These guys/girls that I
hae kept,
have been the severe cases..major medical issues, temperment etc, and
they
were deemed "unadoptable" by the average group...and so they
came here to be
our beloved children..II have been bitten repeatdly by mill dogs who
can't
trust, had floors ruined because they had difficulty housbreaking
etc...Barnaby our "oldest senior" is 15 yrs and diagnosed 4
wks ago with
kidney failure.. My own vet looked me in the eye and said, this can be
expensive..My reponse was..How much time (and quality of ) life can we
get
him...The vet responded with perhaps 6mth..perhaps 5 more yrs..Then
treat
him..I would sell my very soul to the devil to save one of them...
I have been a "lurker" listening and learning from everyone
here...I can
attest to the fact that I am sure this adopter was told of Ralph's
problems
ahead of time..She filled out the paperwork...SHE paid the adoption
fee...SHE
swore she wanted him...and then she "threw him away" like a
dirty pair of
socks...My sympathies go out to each and everyone of you whose lives
were
touched by Ralph..For no matter how short their time is with us, they
always
take a little piece of our hearts....
Dear Friends of PMRescue, I am brand new to
the group and do not know what
horrible circumstances surround the tragedy of Ralphie, but my heart
breaks
for him and all of you who cared for him. Sincerely and sadly,
Cathie Heird
Thank you for wake up call to any prospective adopter(s) to the serious
nature of adopting an animal. Please take this horror stories very
seriously. I can't image why anyone would be so negligent. Please
evaluate why you want to adopt a pet. Then do reach on the breed that
you are interested in, and consider whether this breed matches your life
style. Because, if your only reason for adopting is the look of a pretty
face, then you seriously question your motives for adopting. I am not
saying this to dissuade anyone, but to make you aware that precious
lives are at stake. Wanting to adopt an animal in need is
wonderful thing and we need more people willing to adopt. Let all be
responsible adopter after all, we are vowing to save a life.
Lisa and Glory-(Maltese angel)
--- In PMRescue@egroups.com,
doggiehaven@a... wrote:
> I have never had this happen(thank God) in the 12 yrs that I have
run
> rescue..My heartbreaks for little Ralphie and ALL the members of Pm
rescue
> who fight on a daily basis to rescue these little babies. It is
hard enough
> to lose one, let alone a death that may have been preventable. this
woman
> does not deserve an animal for IMO, she sees these creatures as a
disposable
> commodity to "rid herself" of at will when they do not
confirm to
her
> expectations. An idea here that perhaps can prevent something like
this in
> the future..We all screen adopters as well as we can, but nothing
is
> infallible...perhaps there would be enough of us willing to have
a "follow
> up" network..Volunteers from differnet states that are willing
to
call vets,
> do home visits etc within their local area...and in case of
emergency be
> willing to go and get the baby and provdie temporary sanctuary
until the
> board of PRRscue has time to act.Here at Doggiehaven, we do
unannouced follow
> ups at the adopters home to see the animals, call after 24 hrs to
see how
> he/she is, and if there is a problem that we are notified of, we
call the vet
> and issue a strict No euthanise mandate(that is in our contract)..
We here at
> Doggiehaven would be more than willing to be a follow up/contact
person for
> Upstate NY...Let us know!
>
>
> melissa ferraro
> founder-Doggiehaven
I am so sorry to here about this poor creature.
Ralph deserved more from his forever Mother. I just adopted a dog from
another rescue organization. I have had her for a month and already I
can't image living without her. I can't believe that this woman had so
little disregard for life. I think the vet should have advise here on
how to care for this animal or offered to give the animal up to another
locate rescue organization. My Glory didn't come home perfectly groomed
and smelling of roses. I had to take time with her. She had a infection
from surgery just days after I got her. I knew she would not be ill
forever. I advise anyone who is seriously considering adopting a dog to
really think, before making the committment. These animal are not always
in perfect condition, but if you are willing to that the time to
properly care for them, you will have a friend for life. This type of
beliten disregard and lack of patience should not be the norm. These
animals need TLC and should be treated in life the way we would like;
with love, respect and kindness. I hope Ralph find his eternal life to
be everything is mortal life was not. My God carry this angel on heavens
wings.
Lisa and Glory (Maltese angel)
I have not been able to stop thinking about poor
Ralph. What would this
person(?) have done with children or parents if they were not perfect or
got old - just have them disposed of, cast them off. I really hope she
is a perfect (ha, ha) human and will not age. I hope she gets just
what
she deserves. I know this is not very nice but she was not very nice.
Ralph certainly deserved much better than he got from her. I know people
are screened and it is no one at PM's fault - as in anything
people
fall through the cracks. She was obviously a good actress - just a
rotten person. Ralph is now in much better hands than hers.
Marie
I have been more of an
appreciative listener than a talker on this list, but I have to add my
voice this time to the others expressing their grief/outrage over poor
little Ralph! Some
time ago, I was working as a receptionist at my vet's office when a
woman brought an 18 year old Siamese cat in to be euthanized because she
was "old". The vet couldn't bring himself to do it, and Mish
Mish came home with me. With our love and care she had 6 additional
wonderful years of life! Finally at the age of 24 her kidneys began to
fail, and the vet gently advised us that the time had come to make a
decision. We decided to spend
one last weekend with her and send her to the Bridge on Monday. It's as
if Mish Mish sensed the agony we were going through over this decision,
and passed peacefully on her own Sunday night. She lies buried
underneath an oak tree in
the shadow of a St. Francis statue we bought for her. I cry everytime I think of her, and now I cry for Ralph who
had to spend his last moments in the hands of such hateful, insensitive
people-and didn't even receive a decent, loving burial!
I'm sorry to be a little long-winded-I just had to say my piece. Bless
you, poor little Ralph.
Nancy in Ivanhoe, NC
Along with 3 pups&5 kitties, my babies for life!!
Hi the photo of Ralphie never came through.
But its ok I think it would
only make me feel even worse...I am begining to think that this
list is
getting too sad -- I hate to ignore too many letters but so many are
heartbreaking. Reminds me of when I eas a little girl and dogs
were put to
sleep all the time - if they curled up their lip at some ones kid
-- just
"destroy" them...if they get sick -- just destroy them,
no sense in getting
a lot of vetbills. I thought things had changed but obviously I
was wrong
same as I had no idea there were such horrid places as these terrible
PM.
Wow I sometimes can't figure it out.
My son gets upset when Jackson has to have his heartworm checkup and
thinks
Jackson should be sedated so as he does not get worried about himself.
I
won't even tell him about Ralph.
June
Hello everyone.
Niles mom here. Like the rest of you I just had to express my
feelings about the tragedy that happened to little Ralph. It makes
me sick inside. I just want to know why, why, why she did not call
PMR and let them take Ralph back???? I want to say alot more...but
I had better hold my tongue. Ralph, we love you. I am going
to save his picture so I can always remember him. My husband
looked at his picture and said, "Poor little guy." Pat
Hi, the story I read about the cat was so sad. I
wonder if the owner would
have put her mother down!!!! This is why I have ALWAYS said, ''that my
doggies would have to ''tell me'' it's time''. Sorry, not even a vet.
Great
the Siamese had another few years left in her and you there for her
mommie.
Take Care.
Tom, Liz, Corky & Moose.
Save Their Souls
I am late in getting this down but....
Ralph-My heart cries for you. I am sooo sorry that this person
felt the need
to be so decietful to you and to everyone at PMR and on the list.
I am angry
that *** felt that you were to be disregarded and discarded, like your
life
meant nothing at all! I cannot find the words to express my
sadness at what
you have had to go through your whole life, and to have it ended this
way! I
only hope and pray that you know that you were loved by many and that we
sincerely tried to offer you a better life than the only one that you
had
ever known. I can only take comfort in the fact that you are now
running
FREE and that no one will ever hurt you, abuse you, starve you, neglect
you,
or disregard you ever again! Rest in peace, sweet baby!
What a nice-looking little guy, how sad that he is
not
with us anymore. I know many people here would
have taken him in a minute.
Linda Lirette, Sam & Buster
http://www.puppymillrescue.com
You know I was very mad and upset when I got the
email first talking about
Ralphs story... I hadn't seen his picture and I had wanted my Navy Seal
Hubby
to go hunt her down... Now that I have seen this beautiful little guy...Im
asking myself... How this woman is still alive.. I have always thought
that
meanness will eat you alive.. and this woman must be FULL of it....There
is
nothing I can do to make her suffer, but I feel wonderful in knowing
that her
Little cage is waiting in H*ll for her!!
I'll second that! PMR goes out of their way
to find loving homes. It's hard
for any person to see through a mask. If she wanted to make it
look very good
she could have. But one day, not even that, for Ralph. That
upsets me very
much. I know that right now as much as would like to take all of
the babies
home with me I'm not in a position to do that, money or property.
I want to
be able to provide for the worst of ailments if I get one, not to be put
in a
position where I am stuck between food or my babies. It's very
disturbing to
see that some one else does not feel the same. I kind of
considered putting
down to go under the need to get rid of line but apparently she didn't!
Amy Poulson
We will all miss you Ralph.... :`(
All
I can say is thank you for taking care of that little guy.
It
is scary that those jerks got to adopt him. I guess with
so
many animals being adopted, just as in anything else,
there
will be mistakes. At least you were there this time to
help
"pick up the pieces". You are right about everyone
knowing
up front about the challenges they will face.
It
is made very clear when you first subscribe to PMR.
It
is comforting that so many people here feel personally hurt
by
this, it only shows how many caring people there really
are
here and why it is such a great group.
Linda Lirette, Sam & Buster
http://www.puppymillrescue.com
I was telling my hubbie this morning (before he
went to work) about
wee Ralph. He couldn't believe someone could do that. He was real
ANGRY,INFURIATED infact. He left the so called NURSE without a name.
My hubbie is the shy type and doesn't say much, but this disgusted
him to no end. Yes our hubbies care too.
Tom, Liz, Corky & Moose
I have read so much about Ralph, and felt so sad
about him, then I thought
today about something that brings much peace to my heart. My dad
died just a
few weeks ago and his nickname, since he was a kid, was
"Rainbow." If ever
there was a man waiting with the animals at Rainbow Bridge, it is my
dad. He
so loved every living creature and they in turn loved him. So
Ralph has a
buddy already, and together he and my dad are waiting at the Rainbow
Bridge,
watching all our sadness but sending us a message to let us know there
is no
pain for them now. What message, you ask? From now on, look
for the
Rainbows in life. When you see one, think of Ralph and be thankful
that he
had at least a brief moment of freedom. Just a thought to help the
healing!
I look for the Rainbows every day! Kay
When I read the story on poor Ralph, I could not
believe how callous this
person was. Unfortunately, sometimes shallow people like this get
through
even the best screening processes.
I told Anita this story on the phone the other night, so I think it
would
be fitting here. I have a dog named Charlie. I will never
forget the day
that I saw the little bugger (actually, my husband saw him and dragged
me
back to the pound) and decided that he would come home with me. I
already
had 2 dogs and thought I was "done" until that day.
Charlie was this little scrawny puppy. He was very withdrawn and
hiding
in the back of his cage, and I could not believe all the fleas on him
(with a horrible case of tapeworm to follow)! It turns out that he was
picked up as a stray from Robert Taylor homes. For anyone familiar
with
Chicago, these are absolutely the worst public housing projects in the
city. His ears were black and infected, and did they ever stink!
He
had a benign tumor on his flank, and the usual garden variety of
intestinal worms. He also had kennel cough and would spew mucous
much
like the girl on the Exorcist did pea soup.
So, we brought Charlie home under the premise that he was a shepherd
mix,
much like our other 2 dogs. WRONG. He grew up to be a
"grizzly" 45 pound
terrier mix. From the start, he exhibited a few very bad
behavioral
problems. He had terrible separation anxiety, and would scream for
hours
in his crate even though he was in the same room with us while we were
trying to sleep. He would then sleep all day. His separation
anxiety has
mostly been attributed to early separation from his mom and pack.
Looking
back through shelter records, it turns out that he was found at 5 weeks
by
himself, obviously abandoned way too early.
His most serious problem regarded bathroom habits. We had easily
potty-trained 2 dogs before him, but Charlie just did not catch on.
He
would eliminate anywhere and everywhere, even in his crate. If we
gave
him a towel to lay on, he would just pee in it and ball it up.
While
napping in the kitchen chair, he would just pee there and lay in it.
Physiologically, there was absolutely nothing wrong with him- he was
checked for an infection or anything else that might make him behave
this
way. After dealing with 8 months of a 45 pound dog eliminating in
the
house, we were at our wits' end. We didn't know how much more of
this we
could take. When we asked for advice at the shelter and consulted
with
their vets, we were told that he would probably never be housebroken and
that if we couldn't deal with that, we should put him down.
Well, I was not going to give up on this bugger. Miraculously,
about 1
month after that, Charlie one day just "got it," as if I light
bulb turned
on in his head that pee and poo go outside. He has not had a
problem ever
since (which was 1997). As for the separation anxiety, I worked
these
issues through with a behaviorist. He has free roam of the house
when we
are gone with the other two big dogs.
I could have given up on my "Chuckles." Even the vets
seemed to support
that. My life would have never been the same without him, and to
this
day, all I can think of is how lucky I am that I brought this scruffy
little underdog home.
Tatiana
Thank you to every body for sending me pics of Ralphie---
now I remember seeing him on the puppymill rescue page --
its such a terrible shame, so many of us are waiting and then some one
gets
a new pal and goes and just kills a beautiful little guy like that all
he
would have needed was a few more days and he would have been eating and
sniffing around real curious. I feel so sad, there is just nothing
anyone
can do now.
Its so awful.
June" That's what I meant. It would just let them know so
they might mention
it to another Linda B. Then they might notify PMR instead of
really taking
that final step. Though with the $500 penalty in the
contract I don't
think there will be a repeat."
I think that would be a great idea if the vets were notified; however,
how
would we know if they change vets? It is just a shame that ALL
vets just
don't have common sense when a client brings in a puppymillrescue animal
and
realize that if PMR is going to take the time to rescue these animals,
they
would not want them put down. Of course, maybe some people don't
advise
their vets that they have a rescue animal. The more I think of
this, the
more confused I get at how Bowman or the vet could have done this. P.S.
I
think the fine should be higher.
Cheryl, Dee, Sammie, Dandy & Melissa(Gidget) all PMRs
One Dog At A Time.... << Of course, maybe some people don't advise
their vets that they have a rescue animal. >>
That right there is so true. I know myself I'm very proud to announce to
my
Vet , that my babies are Rescues and where they came from. Also in my
file
I it stated that anyone who calls and wants to know info on me and my
pet's
give them anything they want to know.
Maybe
the next Tee Shirt should be with Ralph on it - God rest his little
doggie soul.
I have held off writing my comments in regards to
Ralph because my anger and
emotion has been overbearing and my comments for Linda would be highly
inappropriate for others to read. I am OUTRAGED!!. As far as
I'm concerned
Linda is nothing more than a cruel heartless %!@#$ and that's putting in
mildly. So much hard work has been put into finding homes for
these babies,
who have only endured misery all their lives. Linda not only
betrayed Ralph,
but she betrayed all of us and everything that we stand for. She
is a
parasite that crawled into our wonderful, good hearted community and
slithered her way to create a tragedy. She's the one that has to
live with
herself and if her conscience doesn't bother her then it will sure
bother her
when she finally crosses over into burning flames. My heart goes
out to
Ralph and all those who cared and loved him. He is now in a place
where he
can run, play and no longer feel the disappointment of those who have
betrayed him.
I apologize if my post is too harsh, but it is truly a mild version of
how I
feel.
Dorothy and Butter
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