Endless hope... not a hopeless end

Happy Tails

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Extra-special success stories

All of our adoptions are special, but some stories have drawn massive attention to an animal's plight, and subsequent relief. Find background on these stories by following the links alongside.

LUCY, the amazing 5-footed dog
EMMA, our survivor
MAX, an awesome recovery
Miss Lucy Brown

Awesome Adoptions (2005 to date)

The welcoming Committee at FORA taking a well deserved lunch break and enjoying a spot of sun, in preparation for the next visitor.

Who knows, today could be their lucky day, they have all been waiting a long time for that forever home.

THE CINDERELLA STORY OF PRINCESS

PRINCESS was surrendered to FORA as "unwanted" and wasn't that just the luckiest day in her life?? In her wildest dreams she could not have known the home that was waiting for her with the Mahabeer family. A true Cindarella story. Thanks Anneke for keeping in touch and showering Princess with so much love.

Message from Anneke:

Here are photos of my lovely Princess, the Love of our lives.

I don’t consider this little bundle of joy as a pet, I see her as my baby. She is so spoiled, she refuses to walk when I am at home. She gets carried wherever she goes. In words I cannot explain how much we love our little baby girl. She has crawled so deep into our hearts, I don’t even want to think of the day she may get too old. She is always so happy to see us and gives me so much love.

Big thanks to FOR A for this beautiful gift!!

JESSIE GETS A FOREVER HOME

If ever you wanted confirmation that adult shelter dogs are homeable - this pic of Daniel and Jessie is all you need. Who would believe that this photo was take after spending only two weeks with the Vercuil family? All animals need time, love and patience and if they are part of the family, they will get to know the routine, whether they are adults or puppies. Every boy should have a Jessie, and every Jessie deserves a second chance - Thanks to the Vercuil family for giving Jessie just that.

Message from the Vercuil's:
Thanks a mil for all you guys are doing. please find attached a photo of my son and "Jessie". He is truly a great friend to Daniel and the rest of our family.

Once again, thanks.

David and the Vercueil family.

FOOTLOOSE IS FANCY-FREE AND HOME WITH TYSON

Footloose was born with a missing back paw, but whew! what a bundle of energy and mischief. He was voted the busiest and naughtiest doggie at the shelter - always in trouble, along with his friend Lloyd. Both of them had been waiting for months for adoption. When Vivienne Pio visited the shelter she adopted sweetie pie TYSON, but promised she'd be back for FOOTLOOSE within a few weeks. In an amazing coincidence, Lloyd was adopted to another family in the same week and we were left feeling quite bereft and with a very quiet office.

Thanks Vivienne, they all look so happy - FOOTLOOSE always on the lookout for any action he might be missing. Hope they bring you many years of happiness.

Message from Vivienne Pio:

Hi to all at FORA

I just wanted to send some happy pics of my babies. We have just moved into our new house, so they now have a huge garden to play in, which they are loving! They get on so well with each other, it’s great!

Footloose doesn’t like the cats, but we keep them out of each other’s way. Thank you for allowing me to get to know what wonderful animals you have there!!

MISS LUCY BROWN WALKS THE TALK

Here are some photo's of Lucy after completing the 8km 702 Walk the Talk. She did very well, and I am VERY pleased to say that all the doggies were exhausted and slept most of the rest of the day away. But then again, so did the humans....

The dogs got certificates, rosettes, and all kinds of little gifts. Was a fun day for us and them.

AT HOME WITH EDDIE AND FAMILY

Eddie was surrendered to FORA when his owners moved to a non-pet friendly complex. A senior Maltese cross Scottie, we estimate that Eddie is at least 13 yrs old. In an adoption campaign for our senior residents run by Michelle Soekoe, the Featherstone family responded and offered Eddie a retirement home. Many thanks to all concerned for homing our old boy - and remember you CAN teach and old dog new tricks. Eddie you look beautiful, enjoy your wonderful new family -we miss your little face peeping out of the kennel.

A new message from Eddie's new owners:

Just an update on Eddie. We love him so much and he has settled in so well.

He now knows that he belongs to us and he also joins my other two dogs at the gate when I come home. He is the sweetest, gentlest dog and loves a cuddle and if we pat him and scratch him and rough him up, he bounces all over the house and then comes back for more. As we don't know too much about his background, we have discovered that he is petrified of a broom so we have to sweep when he is outside or asleep.

Once again, thanks for Eddie and I will keep you all updated at FORA.

Regards, Pam
...........
An update on Eddie

Just to give you an update on Eddie. He is a sweet dog and asks for
nothing but a little love every so often. He has settled in well and wags his tail a lot.. He even has a bit of energy when playing with my smallest little dog. We discovered that he is a little deaf and cannot hear normal human voices so we have to pat him on then head to attract his attention but he can hear noises like clapping. Whatever his little old age problems are, we love him to bits and he is starting to love us as well. He had a nice bath on the Saturday and was transformed from a beige dog to a white one. I think he missed all his friends for a day or so as he was very quiet but is quite at home now pottering around the house and garden. He sleeps in his own basket at night and is perfectly house trained.
Please pass this info' onto Betty as she was quite sad to see him go and gave him a big long hug before she put him into my car.

Thanks to all of you and I will keep you undated every so often.

Love Pam, my daughter Kaylee, Eddie, Mikki and Little Dog.

PHOTOGENIC BEAUTY, TESS

This kitty was rescued from the Westgate Shopping centre parking lot and came in to FORA thin, hungry and very dirty.

She was fostered by Leigh and then adopted by Della and is now just gorgeous ... take a look at the photos!

Message from Della:

We have called her Tess!

Pics attached - isnt she beautiful. The one on the bed is her recovering from her little op (she is a spoilt brat) - races all over the house - smacks me in the face in the morning, with her paw, if I dont wake up in time to feed her and loves to play in the bath - of which one time she fell in whilst I was in it and almost took my leg off whilst she tried to get out!!

She gets on really well with my other kitty and terrorises her daily - we are very very happy with her! I know, everyone comments on how beautiful she is, she really is lovely and very loving (when she isn’t attacking you, cause then you are lucky to have skin left, she can be a bit wild as well) but we have had plenty of laughs and loads of love out of her with many more years to come!

I’m glad you found her and I‘m glad I got her!

FOUR KITTIES FIND A HOME

Hre are photo's of four cats that were adopted from FORA and went to live in Bloemfontein lin March 2007.

Madsali, Saartjie (the two sisters), Emma, the WILD ONE and Sam the only boy.

They are having a roaring time, alternating being my sister's bed and my mom's bed at night.

MEET DOMINO

He is one of six Fox Terrier puppies left at FORA's gate when only
two days old. Ruth Kloppers became the litters' foster mommy and
did a great job. They grew up healthy and full of confidence, and
all found loving homes, but DOMINO's energy proved to much for
his owner and was returned to FORA. Fortunately Mark Friedburg fell in love with DOMINO's long tail and inquisitive disposition and we thank them for offering him a second chance, and embracing his lively spirit!

A TEAM SAVES YOUNG JESSIE BELLE

This little German Shepherd cross pup was brought into FORA with
horrendous injuries to her front paws. It would seem that they had
been trapped under an electric gate and all the flesh had been torn
off, exposing the bones and tendons. Worst of all, she had been left unattended and without veterinary care and by the time she came to FORA, the chances of saving her paws was very slim.
To Dr Sheila Hahn, our thanks for the great job you did on Jessie Belle and to Jenny Janse van Rensburg who adopted her and gave her the extra loving care she needed for rehabilitation, we send our special thanks.

Just look at Jessie Belle in her new home, a slight deformity of the paw is the only reminder of her past life of neglect. She is fully recovered and socialised and doing the puppy things she should do!
A great success story made possible by a team of caring people.

A 'NOT-SO-LITTLE' BOY MAKES HIMSELF AT HOME

OSCAR was one of 12 almost identical Staffie cross (so we thought) pups surrendered to FORA. Cute as buttons, and all very confident, they found homes very quickly. They have all outgrown their Staffie status and certainly look like Mastiffcrosses now.

Thanks Maxine for the lovely pics and feedback - your animals are all very lucky to be in the Crossman home.

Message from Maxine:

Here are 2 photos. The first one is the day we got Oscar. Luckily Layla didn't live up to her Bull Terrier reputation and they are as thick as thieves!

Second photo is a VERY ashamed Oscar... after he had been playing in the mud and rain. He was FILTHY but as he loves baths I think it was his way of making sure he got a special one! hee hee

He still chases the cats, but out of pure joy - not that they appreciate it. Lucky my main cat is a real fighter and sorts him out quickly!

Unfortunately, because of his size, sleeping on the bed is not an option, but he does have his own couch at the end of the bed - so is really spoilt!

Thanks so much for all the work you guys do.
Regards
Max

IT FINALLY HAPPENS FOR GOODBOY AND BLAIR

A true love story...

Goodboy and Blair were surrendered to FORA 2 years ago. GOODBOY a tough old battle scarred Rotti cross male and BLAIRE, his pretty Shepherd cross damsel.

Nobody was going to hurt Blaire while her shining knight was around, he loved her with his very being. And so began our search for a home together. Many offers for Blair and Security companies were really keen on Goodboy. Finally a family home was found
after one year, but the 2-metre wall was no obstacle to Goodboy when he needed to protect Blair.

Back at FORA they settled down to shelter life together and then one day in May this year, in walked Mark Cumming looking for two, large well socialised older dogs to move with him onto his new farm. Could this be their day??? It was indeed!

Together forever, with space to run, no walls to jump, no threat of losing the love of one's life.

A story of perseverence, devotion, eternal optimism and certainly one of "Endless Hope, not a Hopeless End". Go well - we miss you - and thank you, Mark, for this happy ending

BELLA FINDS A FOREVER HOME WITH THE SINGH FAMILY

Sandy paid FORA a visit as part of ABSA's Community Service Project, and fell in love with a scawny little Boerbull cross pup who had just been surrendered.

As it is always difficult with pups, the Singh family were asked to wait for a week so that we could monitor the pup. Finally, the day arrived and a still skinny, but happier pup went to her new home and was named BELLA SINGH!

These lovely pics are testimony to their loving care. Bella is one fat, spoilt and confident little girl today. Thanks for putting the wag back in her tail

Message from Sandy Singh:

We cannot believe that this is the same puppy we got from you. She is so heavy now, I cannot carry her anymore.

Finally all 3 dogs (our Lab: Xena, our Boerbull / Alsation / Staffie: Miskey & Bella) are outside together, but come evening, she comes inside and goes to her bed for the night. It is a bit too cold at night for her to be outside. She is extremely confident to the extent that she challenges the bigger dogs sometimes.

A little naughty now, coz she has been very spoilt by her Granny and Aunt. (that's my Mum and Sister)., but we wouldn't trade her for anything.!

She loves chewing on wood!

Thank you guys for trusting us enough to let us have her.

Kindest regards
Sandy Singh

SPIKE AND CHLOE

This exceptionally pretty 10-month-old pair waited for a few months for their adoption day. May offers of homes individually, but we did not want to split them as they were very attached to each other. SPIKE and CHLOE, you look so happy - we are really glad we held out for a home together - be good now and enjoy your new freedom. Many thanks to the Kesting family.

Message from the Kesting Family:

Here is a picture of the german shepard/collies we adopted. Just thought we would let you know they seem happy and are settling in well.

SABRINA AND SNUGGLES

SABRINA was a much-loved Daxie brought in to FORA as her owner
had lost his home, and asked that we keep her till he had found a place to stay. When Tracy fell in love with Sabrina, we called her owner and he gave permission to rehome her. What a lucky day for Sabrina.

Snuggles was adopted as a companion when Tracy sadly lost her existing doggie. Tracy we hope that these two little ones have filled the hole in your heart to overflowing. Thanks for updating us and for the loving home you have provided.

Message from Tracy Forbes:

I adopted Sabrina first last year in September then Snuggles in November, thought I would drop you a note and tell you that they are doing fine and are getting spoilt rotten.

They are both the cutest doggies and they give me lots of loves. I have attached some photo’s of them for you guys to see how they are doing. On the one photo you can see Sabrina playing nicely with her toy she got for Xmas, she really loves her toys. In another photo you can see that I don’t need to buy any flowers as Snuggles sits in the pot so he is the flowers. Snuggles did not have a name when I got him from you, he loves to snuggle so I decided to call him Snuggles. Hope lots of dogs are finding a nice home to go to.

DUSTY'S LOVING HIS NEW LIFE

This lucky little GSD x Chow was adopted as a puppy in November by the O'Neill family. She has become the centre of attention and is a happy, well adjusted little dog. Thanks to Lisa and family for the wonderful home you have provided for DUSTY and for these great pics.

We would love to use them for our Xmas cards and 2009 Calendar.

JENNY & JASPER FIND LOVE AFTER TRAGEDY

Pure breed Spaniels, Jenny & Jasper, were surrendered to FORA after their owners were killed in a car accident and family members had kept them hidden in a garage for 2 months as animals were not permitted in their complex.
We were really keen to home them together, but when Yana decided she only wanted Jasper, we sadly decided to give him his chance. In follow up phone calls, Yana learnt of the tragedy and immediately made the decision to fetch Mommy Jenny. Thank you to the Augers for reuniting this pair and for the time and trouble you have gone to in ensuring their happiness.

Message from Yana Auger:
Thank you very much for our dogs. They are lovely. They are doing well in their new home, enjoying home-made food, learning new things.
We are first-time dog owners and like so many people we were about to make many mistakes in looking after dogs. Anyhow, seeing that we're lacking in knowledge, I started to surf the net trying to find some advice on training our dogs.
Then I came across a very informative book called "SitStayFetch"
www.kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/. I found it very helpful indeed. Now I know what needs to be done to get rid of a couple of bad habits Jasper and Jenny have, I know that something CAN be done.
I think, if all the dog owners and, particularly, prospective dog owners would read this book it would help them understand what to expect from a new life as dog-owners, how to care for a dog and train it, what the dogs are about, why problems occur and how to deal with them.
So, I thought, I would share with you this information. Maybe you could put a banner on your website or recommend the "SitStayFetch" book to your clients or maybe even sign up every adopting "parent" to their FREE SitStayFetch 6 Day Course newsletter. I believe, it could help reduce the number of abandoned and second-time abandoned dogs.

HAPPY POPPY

Poppy the little MinPin was surrendered in 2007 to FORA as unwanted. She was nervous and shaky but always a busy body, and when Liz Hulsbosch visited looking for a "constant companion", POPPY was the one who stole her heart. She has been with the Hulsbosch family for a year now and, from Liz's letter, has gained all her confidence and more in her loving, new environment. Happy days Poppy, you're a lucky little girl!

An update on Liz's little girl: She is the love of our life. She is sharing the house now with two other rescue dogs. A Daxie and a Ridgeback. And my old cat. She is the smallest but she is in charge! She is the most loyal and protective dog. No stranger is allowed too close to me. The other dogs join in. I feel very safe. She killed a rat the other day. My husband was sooooo proud of her. She manages to impress everybody. Sometimes she steals food, but bad habits die hard. She only wants to be a good girl, and she is.

Regards, Liz XXX

SCOT FINDS A FOREVER HOME

Hello All
Firstly I think everyone at FORA is doing a much needed, awesome job. Secondly, we recently had the opportunity to adopt and I've attached some pics of our baby SCOT.
He is such a sweetie and has made such a great addition to our little family. Thanks soooo much

With much love, Celeste Palmer

Message from FORA:
SCOT was one of a litter of German Shepherd cross Maltese (honestly) puppies brought into FORA. All his siblings were quickly adopted, but SCOT held out for a few months, until his forever family arrived in the form of the Palmers, and he just out-cuted everyone and stole their hearts. Who wouldn't love that face?

CLEO AND ISIS FIND A DREAM HOME AND EACH OTHER

We adopted 2 dogs on Monday 21 January. A GSD young female that was being attacked by other little dogs. She had just came in and was spayed on Monday. A very jittery dog. Seems like she was beaten, as every time we use an electronic product with an extension cord, she growls and gets scared. So we have hidden all the cords for awhile. The other was a young puppy. We think boxer/great dane but not sure what it is. It had severe malnutrition, enteritis and worms according to the Vet, and FORA did not take the money for her, as they were not sure she would make it. Her brother had recently died.

She had not eaten for the first 2 days and we were panicking. But suddenly, she got her appetite back and is eating everything in sight! Her ribs are not so prominent and she does not cry anymore. She is an absolute delight!

The relationship between the 2 has improved so much in 2 days. They love each other to death, and spend all day nuzzling and biting each other. The best thing that could ever happened to us! Enclosed are before and after pics.

Thanks FORA. We shall be visiting soon!
Dawn and Dominic Naidoo

Message from FORA:
Dawn and Dominic contacted us wanting to adopt 2 large dogs, but their minds were quickly changed on arrival at the shelter. They immediately fell in love with the little GSD female who had been surrendered to us, abused, nervous and unwanted. In looking for a companion for CLEO they saw the little Boerbull cross puppy who had been dumped in a box at FORA the day before.

Very sick and neglected, her siblings did not make it through the night. Dominic was insistent that they would give her a chance and so it was that ISIS made her way home with CLEO to Edenvale. These beautiful pics just say it all, and we know that their love is what pulled this puppy through and made such a difference in
CLEO's life. Thank you and may you enjoy many years of devotion and love that has no equal.

MISTY THE PERFORMER - MARCH 2008

Some Heart warming Fuzzy news from Teresa and the Rand Show!

Fora's motto - ENDLESS HOPE, NOT A HOPELESS END certainly came true for one very lucky pooch. I can get very mushy eyed when dealing with the animals and this certainly was the case when we had the privilege of being visited on the stand at the Rand Show by one of Fora's past occupants. Dot Harwell who adopted Misty 3 years ago this month, was beaming and I had tears of joy to know that past Fora's gates, there is a wonderful life that can be achieved, when dog and owner meet each other and work together. As can be seen in the photos, Misty is beautiful (and clean). She was placed 5th in the medium size, SA Champs 2007 - Agility.

Misty must have been one of Marlene's last adoptions she did before passing away, so this makes it all the more special to see the achievement that can come from such a humble place as the Fora shelter.

Thank you Dot for visiting us and we wish you all the best for the future. Please give Misty a huge FORA huge from all the friends still there. PS - please give us some of your agility energy, it seems like the show is going on forever!

DJ THE DAXIE - AN UPDATE ON HIS PROGRESS

"I am sure you get so many of these emails, but I am so proud of my boy that I wanted to share his recovery with you.

"In January last year I visited FORA with one of my friends. While there, a tiny little daxie-cross was brought in with a popped out eye, riddled with worms and very, very sick. I could not leave him behind and took him with me. We went through two very long weeks of touch and go, prayers from so many people and finally he was on the road to recovery.

"I have included pictures of DJ’s journey for you.

"Thank you so much for the wonderful work you do and for bringing DJ into my life."

Message from FORA:

DJ, was 6 weeks old when he was brought to FORA's gate. He had suffered massive head trauma, a suspected fractured skull, his eye had popped out and he was close to death. One look at DJ and Kevin knew he could not leave this baby behind.

Major surgery, and two weeks of prayers and lumps in throats, where DJ suffered severe setbacks, followed. This is DJ today - a beautiful, happy dog, who was given "Endless Hope, not a Hopeless End" by Kevin.

Kevin we thank you most sincerely for your compassion and kindness and pay tribute to the wonderful life you have offered to a special little dog. Rescuing one dog will not change the world, but it will make a world of change to one dog!"

From top to bottom:

DJ before his operation to remove his eye. He was in such agony.
After the operation... very thin and still a week-long battle for his life ahead.
Getting better and learning to climb stairs.
Just a regular, one-eyed puppy!
Almost grown up with my brothers and sisters.
All grown up a year later.

EMMA'S MAX IS LOVING LIFE! - January 2008

As promised, I attach a photo of Max, one of Emma's babies. I'm sorry it has taken me so long to send this to you. Max is a lovely boy, has a great character and is always friendly and happy. He loves going for walks and runs with dad in the mornings (apparently Max takes dad for a run and not the other way around!) He also enjoys puppy training on Saturday mornings, especially "time out" when he can play with his classmates. Unfortunately his sister (a nine year old German Shepherd) is not too keen on having him around and they have to stay in separate parts of the garden, so he doesn't have the company (and nor does she) that I had hoped for. Other than that, we love having him and can't remember what life was like before he came along.
I'm so pleased that Breggie Storbeck convinced me to visit FORA to meet Emma and her puppies and I immediately fell in love with "the fat one with the prominent ridge". I have sent you another photo where you can see his beautiful ridge.
Thanks for contacting me to follow up on Max's progress.
Kind regards, Paula

Comment from FORA:
To the uninitiated, Emma is our now famous doggie who was rescued by FORA in the veld after having chewed of her own paw to free herself from the wire snare in which she was entrapped. Click on EMMA to read more. She had 8 healthy babies, and this is a follow up on just one of them. MAX, a dead ringer for his Mom.

THE BLISSFUL LIFE OF INDI THE STAFFIE - December 2007

Stunning black and white Staffie, Indi was adopted from FORA as a six-week old puppy (the name she was given at FORA at the time was Molly) and she was returned to us (thankfully) after eight months because she was "naughty and hyperactive". She was returned together with a very old Staffie.

As fortune would have it, Ryan Boswarva was visiting from Durban and in an immediate bonding, Indi had found her human.

Aren't these the happiest pics ever? What a lucky girl she is and we thank Ryan for this wonderful life she has been given.

PS: The old girl who came in with Indi was offered a wonderful retirement home just this week - so two happy tails to report!

Here is a message from Indi's new owner:

Hello there,

So sorry for taking so long to send these pics.

Indi is having fun in Durbs, she has become such a little beach bum. When I put on my board shorts to go surfing she knows I'm going to the beach and starts running around looking for her leash, too clever.

Everyone loves her and many people have threatened to steal her from me, they got no chance!! When I go surfing and she can see me on the beach she screams until I return to shore, she's a beaut and I love her. Thanks for what you guys are doing up there, it's hardcore.

Grace and peace.
Ryan Boswarva

A BIG NEW FAMILY FOR LADY - November 2007

Stunning Collie cross GSD, LADY, who was heartbroken when she was returned to FORA, found a special home with the Hannibals and now has 6 children all competing for her attention, which she is loving. LADY was originally adopted as a puppy by the Swart family whose intention it was for her to sleep with the children and accompany them in the car. Unfortunately, LADY outgrew the beds, the car and the garden - in fact, as a 10-month old pup, she is still growing. The Swart's sadly surrendered her and adopted a small, but fully grown Pommie cross and sent this message:
Thanks for letting us know about Lady, Jessie was overjoyed to hear the news. Hope Lady will be happy there. Trixi & Wurm are getting along great and the boys just love her to bits. She loves to drive with when I fetch them from school - she even gets along with
the cats (from FORA) and it is definitely working much better. Blessings from Tricia Swarts.

BEAUTY GETS HER BREAK - November 2007

After coming in to FORA hairless, with a large litter of pups, Labrador-cross Beauty was adopted by the Hall family of Krugersdorp. She couldn't quite believe her luck they day they came to fetch her, amidst the rain and activities of the FORA Summer Festival.

HAPPY DAYS FROM NOW ON FOR SNOWBALL

This tiny little boy was surrendered to FORA suffering from billiary. After veterinary care and a speedy recovery he was adopted in November by Sandy Henning. We received this pretty pic of SNOWBALL on his first night in his new home with this message: "Kyk net, klaar tuis!"

We hope he spends many happy years is his new forever home.

10 January 2008
Latest update of SNOWBALL (pictured right, with Megan) in his new home.

"Kyk tog net hoe word ek bederf".
He certainly is a lucky little guy.

MISTY, THE NEW CAPETONIAN

This is MISTY in her favourite spot - on Granny's lap. MISTY was found by the Hudson family, running on a busy main road. They took her in and all attempts at finding her owner, failed. Granny, visiting from the Cape, fell in love with Misty, but still convinced her owner was out there looking for this special dog, they brought her in to FORA in the hope that we would reunite MISTY with her owner. Granny returned to the Cape and 2 weeks later called to say she was missing MISTY terribly and so it was, MISTY was driven
to the airport and flown off to her new home with Granny in the Cape. She is now a pampered, much loved little girl, who no longer needs to roam around looking for attention.

THE HAPPILY-EVER-AFTER TALE OF ROXIE, GUNNER & MARSHALL - November 2007

In November 2007, the beautiful Springer Spaniel called Marshall was adopted and new owner, Dorothy Ackerman promised to return to adopt Marchall's lifetime pal, Gunner. True to her word, Dorothy returned to FORA to adopt Gunner, who had been distraught since saying goodbye to his companion. They are both adjusting to their new home, with Marshall unperturbed and taking over, and Gunner still a nervous dog, having being abused before finding refuge at FORA.

We are sure he appreciates the little den that Dorothy has created under the dining room table for Gunner to hide in during the summer storms.

Pictured alongside are Marshall with previous FORA adoptee, Roxie, keeping guard in their new surroundings, the two pals taking over on the couch and sweet Gunner settling in.

OUR NOBLE DUKE - October 2007

Duke was surrendered to FORA after he had killed a parrot and it was soon apparent that he had a dislike for small animals. He was well trained, obedient and loveable, but we decided that he should be adopted as an "only dog".

The Smiedt family fell in love with Duke and with no existing pets, were a "made to order" family for him, and we thank them for giving him the opportunity to love and be loved.

Here is some feedback from his adoptive family:

All is well on our side. Duke has really fitted in and seems to ‘play’ really well with my daughter. He is truly a wonderful dog with an amazing nature.

I have attached recent pictures of him for you guys to see.

The Smiedts and Duke

ABOUT JESS - A story to warm your heart

JESS the German Shepherd cross Collie was brought into our shelter, very thin and nervous but always gentle and affectionate. The Van der Merwe family paid a visit to find a companion for their Collie cross male, LEEU. After spending several hours walking through the runs, they came upon JESS, and instantly knew she was the one for them. What makes this story special is that gentle JESS spent over one year with us waiting for her home. She certainly looks happy with Leeu and Cheandre.

CHEEKY THE MALTESE - October 2007

After losing her very old male and female malteses in quick succession, a heartbroken Kim Lugli called FORA to enquire if we had a female Maltese who could become a companion to her remaining, rather frail male Nicky. We had only one female, Snookie, but when Kim came through to visit, it was little male Cheeky who stole her heart.

Not sure how the dynamic would pan out, Cheeky went home with Kim, and these pics just say it all.

Doesn't Cheeky Boy look just grand. With all the red sand at the shelter, we remember him a rather more pinky colour - he certainly looks whiter than white now!

Thanks to Kim, Nicky, Lucky, Teddy and Haley the cat for welcoming Cheeky into your home.

JESSIE THE DALMATION - September 2007

This gorgeous brown-spotted Dalmation was not at FORA very long before she was adopted by Taryn in September. We know you will enjoy her lovely temperament and her silly smile.
In looking for a companion for Jessie, the Jones family adopted a beautiful Male Whippet who had spent just three hours at the shelter. Family friend Cathy Street, fell in love with a little cross breed puppy, and so with not much space in the car, three FORA doggies made their way to their new homes.

"FIELIES" DU PLESSIS - September 2007

This beautiful boy, who had come in to FORA as a tiny baby with 12 other puppies and a mommy-dog, found a home with the du Plessis family on the Heritage Day long weekend.

TAMMY THE TOY POM - September 2007

This beautiful little Toy Pom was rescued on a school playground on a very hot day. She was shivering uncontrollably and on lifting her long fur was found to have an open wound the size of a R10 note. She was diagnosed with gangrene with not much hope of recovery and her life hung in the balance for two weeks.
We all, however, underestimated her will to live and when
Dr Koekemoer advised that she could go home, he requested that she be placed in a home environment. Pommie lover, Eddie
Verwey was asked to foster this little girl until a home could be found and of course, his already soft heart melted at the thought
of giving her up.
Thank you Eddie for adopting Tammy and offering her a wonderful home. FORA

Message from Eddie Verwey:
We decided on the name Tammy. It is the only name she reacts to.
Guess what? We decided to adopt her. As you can see she is already part of the family. The other two have welcomed her into their home. They play together, sleep together, and eat together, really getting along well.

Little Tammy (centre) has found her place in the sun with the Verwey family

ROXY AND RUFUS - July 2007

This brother and sister were township rescues who were adopted by Michelle at the beginning of July 2007. They recently returned for their latest inoculations and were a little nervous to be back at FORA. When they saw Breggie, however, they were all smiles and kisses, and happily received their injections.
New mom reports they are happy, healthy and full of love. They both love water, especially Rufus and they have a great fun-filled life ahead of them.

Rufus, left and Roxy

OUNOOI AND SEUNA - July 2007

These two beautiful Boerbulls were found locked up in a tiny alley, clearly starving and covered in sarcoptic mange. The male was showing signs of aggression and the little female had given up on life. Ilse Venter and her family fell instantly in love and we are so grateful to them for the love they have showered on Ounooi and Seuna and for giving them the chance they deserved to become the very best they could be.

A letter from their new owners:

Hi alle honde liefhebbers

Hier is foto's van my twee pragtige honde wat ek laas jaar Desember aangeneem het by FORA, Hulle is nou spek vet en gesond jy sal nie se dit is dieselfde honde nie. Seuna sukkel net nog om te blaf maar ek is seker daarvan tyd sal genees. Hulle was ook gevind as mishandelde honde deur Patti, sy was baie bang dat hulle in gevaarlike honde gaan verander.

Ek het 3 kinders, die jongste is nou 3jaar oud (foto is ingesluit waar sy met Ounooi staan), hulle is liefdevolle honde, Ounooi het vir maande lank weg gehardloop as jy aan haar wou vat, nou hardloop sy jou letterlik uit die grond uit om aandag te kry, hulle is veral lief daarvoor as jy hulle mage streel, hulle kry net nie genoeg daarvan nie, en Seuna kan met altwee pote groet. Hulle het baie gou aangepas tot die kat kan dit tussen hulle waag.

Ek will net vir Breggue & Patti baie dankie se vir alles, en dat hulle ons die kans gegun het om die twee stouterts huis toe te vat. My kinders Remy (15 Jaar oud) & Jesse-lee 12 Jaar oud) het nou al 'n paar keer by FORA gaan uithelp om met die diere te help, en hulle geniet elke oomblik daarvan. Baie dankie dat julle my kinder die kans gun om uit te help. dit maak net beter mense van hulle.
As julle enige hulp nodig het met kyk na diere tot en met hulle aangeneem moet word, my deur staan altyd oop vir julle,

Baie dankie weereens
Ilse.

Top: Ounooi and Seuna as pups
2nd from top: Ounooi and Meegan
2nd from bottom: Ounooi and Seuna's new family
Bottom: Ounooi all grown up

CHARLIE AND BEN - March 2007

Charlie, a 4 month old Spaniel Pup, was surrendered because he
was way to active for the elderly couple who received him as a gift.
Luckily Anne van Vliet had been waiting for some time for a spaniel
puppy, so Charlie didn't have to wait long for his new home. He is
so energetic and full of life, embrace all the love he has to give.

Annes story: The days seem so hectic especially since Charlie (that's what we renamed him) came into our lives and now Ben has joined the family (Ben is 10 weeks old, a golden labbie, with a little damaged tail). They get on so well together (as you can see from the pic.) and I just hope it lasts when they get older. He is sooooo affectionate, but my only problem with him now is he still chases my cats and chickens - he's going to puppy training to try and break the habit.

Regards
Anne

MISS LUCY BROWN - FEBRUARY 2007

Dear Breggie/ Patti
I took my girl to the ‘beauty salon’ this morning, when I picked her up I couldn’t believe how gorgeous she is! I’m going to rename her ‘Pretty Girl’. She must be a thoroughbred something, I’m sure of it, she’s just too gorgeous to be a ‘liquorice allsorts’.
And an update on Miss Lucy Brown:
She just loves our new house, and having Dexter and Kenny around. Kenny belongs to my friend Charisse (who visited FORA with me that first day and helped me choose Lucy) and Charisse and Kenny now live with us. Lucy has taken to Charisse so well that she will actually sometimes sit on her lap rather than mine when I am in the same room!
The dogs tear around the house chasing each other constantly, up and down the stairs, behind the unpacked boxes, around the garden…it’s a non-stop puppy fun-fest. Then they’ll stop for a 15 minute nap, and start all over again! In the mornings, they all get up early to start playing, and then Lucy will jump back on the bed every now and again to give me good-morning kisses all over my face.
Lucy graduated from Puppy Socialisation School on Saturday. It did her the world of good, her confidence has increased in leaps and bounds. She is comfortable with other people now, letting them pet her and give her love. Although she does still get a bit nervous when you try to touch her while standing, so I often have to sit on the floor before she’s comfortable coming up to me. But when I’m on the couch/ bed she’s quite happy to take a flying leap onto my lap! I can’t believe how that girl can jump! We had quite a few people over for a housewarming last week, and she was very comfortable, sitting with other people and letting them love her. Dexter was the one who was nervous, poor puppy.
Lucy still loves the car, I take her for drives every now and again, she runs from window to window trying to see everything at once. She also loves her walks, biting on the leash till we get outside, as if to say “hurry up there, Slowcoach, we’ve got places to go and things to see!”. Then when we walk past a house with dogs (especially the big, vicious looking ones) the Rottweiler in her comes out and she barks at them while I have to try hold her back. Good thing I’ve got her there to protect me from them.

Hope all is well at the shelter. We will visit again soon.

Love Kieren, Lucy and Dexter

CAPTAIN

Hallo FORA
I have attached some pics of Captain I took this morning. He is really looking great, and seems to be settling in very well. We have our second training lesson today! His teacher says he is a good dog, and is extremely willing to learn. The training is harder for me than for him, it is ages since I have had instructions to follow!! We are having fun. Kite seems to be getting used to him too.

Thanks for all the news and updates, keep them coming!
Best wishes,
Heather

LUCKY LU

This is Lucky Lu adopted from FORA in Dec 2005.

Lucky Lu was brought into CLAW at the Spayathon in Oct 2005 as her owners could no longer afford to feed her.

Lucky Lu attends Dog Training with The DOG CLUB under the supervision of Julie Bezuidenhout an accredited animal behaviourist.

She has come along in leaps and bounds in her training.

She is number 11 in my Dog Family.

Lucky Lu

BUNNS PUPPIES

The Bunns were delighted with their little bundles, having waited for them for four weeks.

RUSTY THE JACK RUSSELL

Hi FORA,
Thought I would send you an update of Rusty.
Rusty showing little respect for my big vicious Rottweiler!
Kind regards,
Wendy Whitehorn

FOKSIE

Hierdie gelukkige foksie is aangeneem deur die Van der Horst familie in Krugersdorp. Haar naam is Juffie en sy maak sommer 'n lekker vulsel vir hierdie toebroodjie.

TEDDY

Hi FORA
What a lovely surprise to hear from you again! Teddy is doing fabulous - she's part of the family! Don't think she has a drop of Chihuahua blood in her though ..... see how big she is compared to my miniature Doberman ...

I have included some photos for you, as a puppy with her favourite toy lion, and some more recent pics... she has this thing about sleeping with her head hanging over the edge!
Regards
Colette

SONJA'S GIRL

I promised some pics of my little girl I got at FORA. She's VERY happy and fits in like a glove. She also has 4 hectares to run every day, and some weekends at our farm. Needs bit of house training though, but all in good time. She's the perfect companion for my male, Rommel (who lost his mommy recently) We'll chat again soon
Regards
Sonja

CINDY THE SAINT BERNARD

Cindy the beautiful St Bernard puppy of nine months who was adopted by Sandra and Malcolm Kent looking really happy in her wonderful new home along with new friend Jan the GSD, who ran for her life on meeting Cindy for the first time.

Cindy has turned out to be a real character as well as an exceptional guard dog.

A QUARTET OF KITTENS

Carmen and Kevin Aston adopted five kittens from FORA late in 2006.

A letter from Carmen:

To all the staff & volunteers at FORA,
About 2 months ago Kevin and I arrived at FORA to choose 3 kittens. I had previously spoken to Vivien over the phone who told me that although she did have kittens, they were still too young to be taken away from the mother, but if I wanted to I could come and “book” the kittens.
I was very excited as I had been searching every pet store for two months when a friend suggested I try FORA.
That day was definitely my lucky day! When I arrived there was one ginger kitten left that had just been brought in that morning, and once I had the kitten in my arms, there was no way I was going
to part with it. I was then left with choosing two more kittens which I could fetch when they were older, and Vivien took us through to where the mother was busy feeding her four kittens. I will never
forget what she looked like lying in her cage which was her new home. Kevin took one look at her and asked if we could take the mother with her four kittens home, and return the one kitten that had been “booked” by someone else when it was old enough. I was ecstatic when Vivienne agreed and after filling in the paper work, etc. Kevin and I left to go and shop for our new family.
Two hours later Kevin and I returned to fetch our “babies” and they have kept us entertained since the first day they arrived at their new home. Although they have a huge yard to explore, they are much
happier to stay indoors and have just about taken over the house. It is wonderful to see how the condition of the mother has improved, and now that the kittens are older, it is incredible to watch them each develop their own personalities.
Kevin grew very attached to the kitten that had to be returned, and I was dreading the day that I had to take her back. One of the best phone calls I received was from Vivien saying that the person who had booked the kitten no longer could take her. I’m not sure what Vivien was going to suggest after that but I definitely didn’t give her a chance to get a word in. The only thing that mattered was that we didn’t need to lose our “fluffy” kitten, who has since been named Snowbell.
I would like to thank Vivien for all the phone calls to find out how our cat family was settling in, but especially for giving us our “babies”. My life has improved so much since they arrived, and Kevin and I don’t want to imagine what the house would be like without them!
Once again, thank you to everyone at FORA for the wonderful work they are doing for the animals!

Kind regards,
Carmen, Kevin and the cat family!

FOXXY GIRL

Letter from Brendan and Lucy Smith

We adopted a little foxie - she is about 18 months old, her name is FOXXY, and she is Brendon's little girl.

Rocco is having the time of his life with his sister / girlfriend and he is so "uit-ge-put" at night, I sometimes assume he can't wait for bedtime.

Foxxy is still a little bit skittish but has settled well and thinks she owns the place. I have enclosed pick's - it's a bit difficult to catch her on camera as she is permanently on the move.

Spoke to Debbie last week as well, please tell her we have Foxxy, she is one of the two sisters that were abandoned at the gate at FORA about a year ago.

BLISSFUL LIFE FOR TWO BASSETS

Die twee Bassets is aangeneem deur Rene Testa na net twee dae by FORA. Hulle lyk baie gelukkig in hul nuwe huis en kyk net hoe behulpsaam hulle is in die kruietuin. (bo)

Lekker lui in die tuin - ag die lewe is maar moeilik. Dankie Rene, ons wens julle baie gelukkige jare saam. (onder)

GINA THE JACK RUSSEL

Gina the "Jack Russell" who was adopted by volunteer Gaynor Lawrence. What a lucky pup she is and so far removed from one of the litter of mangy pups brought in from the squatter camp a few months ago. Could her daddy have been a pointer perhaps?

Letter from Gaynor:

So far so good - the little puppy seems to be accepted by Mitch the Labby & Lucy the GSD cross - her name is Gina - Cameron's choice - she is very spolit & hates to be outside - prefers to sleep on the couch.

BIG JACK

A message from his new owner:

Hi this is JACK's life of bliss!

Love Andy and Paula.

GEORGIE THE CARAMEL CUTIE

Hi FORA, Georgie has had her second puppy training and is doing very well, she has grown tall and beautiful. She has really brought joy in our home. She is still chasing the 5 cats, I am sure they will eventually put her in her place.

She is doing very well. Thanks Adele

CINDY AND ZARA

Hi Patti and Breggie,
Here is a photo of Cindy (the mommy) and Zara who have come to join our family. Thank you for your helpfulness in finding dogs to suit us.
Kind regards, Priscilla Jonnes.

Note from FORA: Is this not an amazing picture, when one considers that these two little girls were surrendered from the squatter camp and spent a year at FORA waiting for the Jonnes family.

SWEET LITTLE STITCH

This is "Stitch" who was adopted, as a seven-week old puppy, by the Gregsons early in 2006.

They report that she is a real love and the favourite of the entire family. What a wonderful life and so heartening for us all at FORA.

Thank you to the Gregsons.

A BETTER LIFE FOR LUCY

Here are some photo’s of my little Lucy. I have now had her for 5 and half weeks, and her hair has completely grown back (she’s become my ‘beautiful swan!). I took her to the doggie parlour on Saturday to try to have it evened out a bit. She’s not shy or nervous anymore (except when I took her to the dog parlour, but she survived that). She is such a puppy, playing and running around.
It’s a shame I don’t have any pics of what she looked like when I first saw her, but I’m sure you all remember.
Look at those ears in the last pic – I could’ve named her Batgirl!
Kieren

Note from FORA: Lucy was one of 15 doggies owned by a squatter in Tarlton. We managed to get him to surrender 5 of them to us. Mange had rendered them all almost hairless. We are sure that life is now a distant memory to Lucy. Thank you Kieren - you are a special lady!

THIN TIN LIZZIE

Thought you would like to see pictures of Khazakstani Racing Dog.
She is still not 100% health wise and Dr is keeping his eye on her , but must be improving as she chewed my best and favourite Clarks shoes, stole a loaf of bread and tried to eat a pigeon all today. Her choice of food is odd, dry bread, meat and pasta, we are pushing her to dog biscuits, meat and pills in chicken polony. She is interested in cats but so far so good. Fagan our Dalmatian paid her lobolo today and lady at kennels put ID chip in.
Please come and have a cool drink-tea with us while we still have furniture and before she really makes herself at home, (still a puppy.)

Best wishes James & Marilyn

UPDATE: Hi, just a quick hello to let you know that Lizzie is doing well, she has the nickname The Terminator, all new beds are chewed, lawn being made to look like shell holes, and things lying around taken outside. It is so strange to have a big dog that you never had as a baby but still only a puppy, if you get my drift, anyway she is loved by all well almost!!!! some cats need more proof.
Thanks for the news letters.

Regards Marilyn & James

Note from FORA: Bella our most unusual Dalmation X Whippet X Spaniel with one blue eye who was adopted by James and Marilyn Kendrick on condition that she did not disturb their comfortable feral cat colony.
So far she has disturbed everything but the cats and we thank the Kendricks for this wonderful adoption.
She is now known as Thin Tin Lizzie.

SUMESH and VERUSHA'S KITTIES

Say hello to our new Kitties who we adopted from FORA on Sunday. They are still nameless at the moment, and seem to be catching up on sleep as you can see....unlike their parents who were kept up most of the night for their entertainment. The girls look all grown up in the pic, but they are about 10 - 12 weeks old.

Sumesh and Verusha

A HAPPY FORA TRIO

Here's a picture of our three FORA doggies making use of the new ceiling fan. The two brown sisters are Daisy and Jenny (adopted in July 2006) and the little boy is Bertie (adopted in April 2006).

Hantie Jansen van Vuuren

CINDY AND MAX

When we took Cindy, we already had a GSD puppy on order and we got him (Max ll) in January.
Cindy has adopted him and is very tolerant of him (see pic). Cindy is doing well at school and got a top of class certificate last week for her 'sit/stay'!
We've just about cured her of her jumping up and (friendly) biting, and now she is a joy to own and we are very proud of her. This week, we adopted 2 x 7 yr old Shepherds whose owners were moving from a small holding to a cluster.
They are brother and sister and couldn't bear to see them split up so took them both.

Best wishes and keep up the good work.

Malcolm Kent

JED AND ZOE - A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN

Finally I have some pix to send to update Breggie and all at FORA on Zoe’s progress. Some background quickly, those who receive mail from Karin van Staden will remember the emails about Jed from round about July last year. I adopted him on 20 October – we drove home in one of those huge thunderstorms and my great big gentle boy just sat quietly behind me in my Uno the whole way, nuzzling my ear every now and again. Jed had been fostered by Mike and Marguerite for a few months before I decided (he decided??) to adopt him/me! He had been abused and was still pretty nervous and scared, particularly around all men and black women.
I decided I would give him some time to settle and would then get a young puppy for company so that Jed would learn to trust completely again, learn that playing is okay and allowed, and hopefully instill some of his absolutely beautiful gentle nature into the puppy. Enter Zoe on 27 Jan. I’d gone to FORA as first option to look for a pup. Being a big dog person the only small pups at that point were Emma’s and I wasn’t convinced that they were going to grow to the kind of size I’d personally prefer a dog to be. So somewhat heart-sore I was on my way out with Breggie when she got called aside by Viv J I think it was. Very fortuitously I think! Because sleeping in the kennel right next to where I stopped was either a large puppy or a small dog. Turned out to be a large puppy and off we went home.
Well, the meeting between Jed and Zoe as she was to become, when I got home was too lovely for words. Because my driveway is onto the street and the dogs have access to the driveway, the training I have always done includes the dogs driving in and out of the driveway with me and then going back into the garden with me when the road is clear. Jed leapt into the car as usual, and stopped dead, sniffing frantically, tail going ten to the dozen. Zoe was in the well in front of the passenger seat so Jed couldn’t see her at that point. Once in, I opened the door and Zoe’s little tail started wagging like mad, who was this very handsome guy looking at her with excitement and coming closer to sniff and lick?? Well it was love at first sight/sniff/lick for both of them!
Love and God bless all, Mandy
[letter has been shortened]

Note from FORA: Mandy, thank you for opening your home to Zoe, a scrawny little pup who has grown into such a beauty and certainly not lacking in confidence. We hope she spends many happy years with you and Jed and we look forward to your visit to the shelter

ANGELIC ANGIE

Hi All, my name is Angie, I want to thank you for taking care of me when we were left in a box at the gate.

Thank you also for allowing Ronell and Gerde to adopt me, I’m very happy and they spoil me, I have a big uncle called Monster that looks out for me and allows me to share his blankie (I like his more than my own).

The Doctor (mommy says he is a vet) said I’m healthy and will be a big girl soon and gave me sweeties after he gave me an injection. I asked mommy to send you some pictures.

PRETTY PATCHES MAKES HIMSELF AT HOME

LATEST UPDATE - 18 September 2008

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