Dana's Story
Hello,
My name is Dana Liebert. I lived in St.Bernard Parish, Louisiana for the past 35 years until 08-29-05 the day my life changed forever. That Sunday, the day before Katrina hit us, I was staying home I figured I would ride the storm out. I put everything up on my comp. desk thinking if I get water, it would never go 4 feet.
My mom came over that sunday morning and insisted I go stay by her house with her. She lived 10 blks up from me. My home was two blks from lake Bourne canal. Barely my potbelly pig was 180 lbs. I tied open his gate for he stays inside the shed but has a trap door that goes in and out. I figured if water comes in the shed he would at least get out. Gina my cat I left her inside the front bedroom and open the closet door.
I packed an overnight bag and took Tobias my dog with me and left with my mom to go around the corner. mom, dad & I stayed for katrina and thought we would ride it out. Little did I know that night My whole world would
fall apart and be gone in just a moment.
SEE DANA'S STORY CONTINUED IN COMMENTS
posted by EricsDogBlog.com @ Friday, January 27, 2006
65 comments
65 Comments:
The Rest of Dana's Story.
Early monday morning the wind starting blowing hard from the hurricane coming thru the kitchen window starting licking water and I help put towels there to sap it up. An hour later the den window blew out.
I just begin to start take the two doors off the hinges in the hallway to put up against the blown window to control the water blowing inside the house.
My dad like a fool stood holding the door up against the window and he was rocking back and fourth. He was trying to prevent the water blowing inside the house. I kept checking the streets. It was up to the curve on the street. A little while latter, it was to the mail box post on the street. Then I look out the back outside where the window blown and the water in just 5 mns later was above the bottom of the french doors. The blown window, water then begin to start pouring inside and my dad just left it go. No control. then the two french doors which was boarded up on the outside busted open like when the red sea was departed. It poured into the house in waves. we had a two story.
I was video taping how the water arose but when it busted open this lake of waves of water exploded into our house. We hauled up the stairs with it following us behind our butts. We climbed up the latter to get into the attic. We prayed for the water to stop rising. and it did stopped right below the office chair in my dads office.
Me, mom, my dad, Tobias and Zoe were in the attic for about 10 hours. We waved a pom pom from when I was in school out the port hole window for help.
Our neighbors stayed and seen momma shaking the pom pom and rescued us out. We had to go back down into the water bust out the 2nd story window, slide down the roof and they got each one of us onto the boat. Our parish was gone. About 8 of us on the boat. ducking under power lines, and riding on top cars and buses all over the place. for when we were in the attic I watched my moms car float out of her driveway and down the street.
I was in shock and scared to death.
They brought us to chalmette high school gym. We got out one at a time.
Slid down the roof of a flooded car and someone helped us out and into the school with our rescuees, soak and wet and freezing.
Tobias and Zoe still with us. we sat inside Chalmette high school for three days to where no one came to get us. People were dying inside of there. people were slipping and falling down the stairs.
Men in boxer shorts and ladies in pj's and people barefooted. It was sad. no bathrooms, no showers, no water or food, no electricity, no communication with the outside world.
On Tues, firemen and cops started bringing us water, softdrinks, chips, honeybuns they got from the grocery for we all needed to survive. We got nursing supplies for all the sick and bleeding people. We sat on bleechers and laid on concrete for three days. Dogs relieving themeselves on the ground floors of the school.
A lady let her 3 year old boy pull his thing out and pee right there and below him was a man's sleeping quarters. We had set up a 50 gallon drum and made a bathroom inside of a room where the janitors keep all there things. it was hard and my back was killing me. I have scholosis disease, a steel herrington rod in my back, a fractured pelvis. We didnt sleep. We were promised for two days someone was coming to get us but no one came.
On wednesday, the cops told us if you can walk it out then to do so for they didnt know when help would come for us.
Me, my mom and dad who are 60, mr. joe who is about 70, mr kent about 70., all stuck together and had to walk out. mr. joe had no shoes but my dad went around and found him 2 left footed shoes for we had to walk back into the water, mr. kent though was still barefoot. He had diabetes and was sick and fell about three times onto the gym floor. We were told that once we hit the levees you could not bring your pets onto the boats. I couldnt carry Tobias for 5 miles in water for he weighed 24 lbs. and we thought if we couldnt take them with us onto the boats that it was safer to leave them inside a dry place on the very top of the bleachers on the left hand side then to leave them loose on a levee.
It was the hardest thing I ever had to do as to walk out leaving my baby there. Everyday, each morning, before I go to bed that picture of my dog Tobias and Zoe waiting there for us to come back kills me, but they wouldn’t let you take your dog. I had to worry about the humans lives that were with me.
They were all up in age.
You dont know what your stepping on and tripping over walking in water up to my chest. Once we hit st.bernard highway the road was dry, but the walk was hard, hot and exhausting.
I collapsed on the way there and told my mom to go ahead I cannot make it, but she made me continue on.
I envisioned in my mind how Jesus Christ did it walking all the ways he had to walk carrying his cross on his back and collapsing like he did. That is what I thought as I walked to safety, rescue, and help. Everyone was walking.
It was horrible and something you see in movies never believing you will go thru it yourself.
We made it to the ferry. The coast guard took us to arabi at the chalmette slips. Conditions were a little better. We each got our own plywood sheet to sleep on. Still no water or food or bathrooms there yet.
The same clothes I had on were so wet and digusting. It was a smell i will never forgot as long as i still breathe. for I sat in my own urine for three days and it poured into my tennis shoes. My feet were burning and getting sores on them. Well the lord blessed me for our new neighbors on the next plywood over helped us so much.
They were my heroes, along with the policemen, the firemen and the cititzens of st.bernard parish, for they were the ones going thru the pain with us and rescusing people off of roofs and out of attics.
The citizens of our parish pulled together and saved us. The guys on the next plywood, gave me a size 10 pair of tennis shoes, a tee shirt and shorts. It felt so much better to take all the urine saturated clothes and shoes off my body. I wear a size 7 1/2 shoe so my feet looked like clown feet(lol).
We stayed in the slips until fri.or sat. I really dont remember, although we felt forgotten for the old cranker radio we used the media only focused on new orleans. Nothing about st.bernard parish. I thought no one would come get us out of there.
One guy was shooting up heroine right next too me at night. When the police caught him and thru the spoon, needle and lighter onto the ground. katrina brought the worst out in people or the best out in people. Anyway they took him and locked him up. Its sad because they had about 7 people they arrested and put inside a holding cell they made out of some fence.
They had a 3 mnth old baby and a 7 mnth old baby in there and they had nothing. Baby misty her formula bottle was empty and she was beautiful. The guys next to us when into the stores and got us survival supplies and diapers, baby wipes, water, food, drinks, batteries, flashlights, baby food...I felt like a hero just filling her bottle up with baby formula. She had a huge smile. That made me feel good too help someone else even though my back was in so much pain i could hardly walk.
We starting getting MRE’s from the military, and water, and port o lets. It was a blessing. We had toilet paper and a bathroom. Yhe little things in life you take for granted how much you appreciate it when you dont have to not wipe or wipe with cardboard anymore. How blessed that felt. We knew then when supplies came they knew we were in there.
It was a long week of hell, but we found laughter in there and prayed and ministered to drug addicts, ex convicts and people who were lost and only knew drugs as a way to fix what was missing in their lives.
We held hands and prayed and they prayed for me for I was fading into dehydration and spasms inside my back and pelvis. On that day we were rescued from the slips by the military for now we were under marshall law.
It felt good walking onto the ferry, but as we rode down the mississippi river,it was a war zone of fear and terror and sadness.
Everything burning by looters and helicopters flying in the air shooting down at these looters. between poland ave. and franklin ave. My dad's business was in that 9th ward section. We thought it was gone.
My dad sat down and cryed and said 34 years I spent building my business and its gone in a day, but my mom said, there is the church and its not on fire and the business is two blks behind the church.
Downtown new orleans were buildings on fire and the windows glass blown out. I couldnt beleive all that I seen. It felt like a world war. Once the military took us over to the west bank navy base. we got off there and stood in line to get on public school buses. Looters were two blks away shooting and looting houses. We were petrified to death. We had to turn our heads to the right and close our eyes for the helicopters were taking off left and right because of all the problems.
We loaded onto the buses and the bus driver showed us how to pull up the windows if the looters start shooting at us. I was terrified to death, for none of the buses could travel forward onto the route prepared we had to ride backing up slowly and silently for a few blks. I looked at my window and saw a looter walking down the street with a t.v. in his hands. We couldnt cross the greater n.o. bridge for it was guarded by military so they drove us the backroads to the new orleans airport. From there we sat in hot buses and I felt like the jews of what they went thru with the germans, war going on and we sat there and were only a number.
I begged the military guy in control of our bus to please let me out for air. Eventually he did and we got to breathe and I poured water on top my head to cool off. Being under marshall law now we had to wait to see from their higher commander where to send us. The airport had no room, they brought us to Baton Rouge and then we got onto another bus. From there we were being driven to Dallas, Tx.
Once we got to Dallas my body gave out. I begin going into a seizure, vomiting, my veins collapsed and I went into a diabetic coma. Amubulance got me off the buses and brought me to hospital. From there my mom was able to call my family and let them were alive and not dead.
My body was dehydrated and they pumped fluids into my body. Once out of the hospital we were out of the shelter situation. From there my brother came and picked us up and we went to Arkansas.
From there after a day to Tennessee. From there after a day to Birmingham, Al. A friend of ours took us in since then. Put us up in his home. From there, I begin to start searching for my pets-Barely, Gina, Tobias & Zoe. People from all over have blessed me by helping me look for them. In oct. A man was able to get into my home he said no animals were in there unless they were under the debris. I thought My babies made it out alive.
When I was able to go back and see the devastation of my home town, I found my Barely dead under the debris and My gina on the highest shelf in my home. They both drowned to death. The water was over my roof over my once beautiful home I treasured and loved. Everything wiped out and gone. Mud was up to my knees in my home.
Nothing to salvage. My automobile gone. My animals gone. The things inside my home I treasured from loved ones gone. My parish gone. I never ever would have dreamed I would be going thru something like this. This is what you see in the movies. But to live thru this and still here is amazing. I found Zoe alive for my mom, and my precious precious Tobias I have been searching for 4 mnths now and I cant find my baby anywhere.
They have sent all our precious pets from hurricane katrina all over the states. I want him back more then anything in the world. I’m staying with my mom and dad in new orleans. A friend of ours is letting us stay in her apt free of charge. The business got 18 inches of water and wind damage and my dads rental property has gotten damaged from katrina on all the roofs.
My dad is fixing up the apt above his business so him and my mom have a place to live. I applied for a fema trailor and waiting for it to arrive. My cousin lives in Slidell La and is allowing me to put a fema trailor behind his house.
I’m seeing a doctor for my mental state of mind for all this is too much for anyone person to endure all at once. I’m healing a day at a time but its hard. I’m very depressed and cry all the time, for I want to go home but there is no home to go to, and I miss my animals and want so much to find my Tobias.
But I know that the lord will supply all my needs and hopefully one day in this 2nd life of which I live in now will be a little bit better. For everything in my first life is gone. I even tried to see if I can save anything out my attic and the water was above my attic.
Its heartbreaking and painful, for I just bought my home 6 years ago and took such pride in it. mud and water was in sealed containers even inside of them in my attic. I buried my pig and my cat a month ago. I buried them underneath his favorite tree, and my precious, precious Tobias, its hard for you never have closure on something you don’t know where he may be or if he is dead or alive. I gutted my home out and they took about over 50 wheel barrells of mud just out my home alone. All that’s left is a shell of a house with bricks and studs. Its sad and hurtful. It is painful to look at the before and after pic of my home now and to watch the video of that painful day of katrina taking over .
dana liebert
Eric, how did you get this story? How old is this woman, It sounds like she had a disability? Even though it reads as if these people are uneducated and poor, they own properties and have a business. curious. Does she have a picture of the dog, or description? I guess I am just frustrated with this whole situation. My heart goes out to all of these people, but they need to quit being victims. They are alive and have a future. Together they need to stand up and kick the governments butt and be heard. They also can take responsibility for animals in their areas. Go put out food once a week, help the 'out of state' rescuers. I volunteer at a shelter that rescued and took in a lot of Katrina pets on the west coast. They find the owners, the owners don't want the pets back because they have been altered or its easier to get a new puppy. (and boy, take your pick, there are tons of them now). It's truly a frustrating and heartbreaking situation.
Anonymous poster# 1,
If you are looking for a photograph of Dana's dog, visit
www.lostkatrinapets.com/tobias/
As for the rest of your comments, well, it's not clear what you intend to accomplish saying such things. Several comments aren't very helpful and whether you intend it or not, lend to some damaging stereotyping.
Each situation is unique. There are plenty of people who would give up everything they own if only they could get their animal back.
Dana I am sending you a very big hug.
Such a sweet baby. I hope that Dana can find him.
I agree that some of those comments promote stereotyping. Everyone is unique, everyone's story is different. Sounds to me like Dana and her family are not playing the victims, they are people trying hard to get back to some semblance of normalcy, whatever that may be after the devastation. She is someone who is trying to find a lost member of her family. I hope she finds him..
More From The Times-Picayune | Subscribe To The Times-Picayune
Every dog has its day . . . and its Kenner owner does, too
Friday, January 27, 2006
By Mary Swerczek
Kenner bureau
Hurricane Katrina couldn't permanently separate Chopper the Great Dane from owner Annabelle Arguello of Kenner. And neither could a New Jersey couple, who battled in court Thursday for permanent custody of the big, friendly dog.
Chopper was reunited with Arguello and will return home on Saturday, nearly five months after the hurricane.
"I tell you, I'm so excited," Arguello said, speaking on her cell phone from New Jersey after Thursday's court hearing. Arguello, 52, said the expense of flying to New Jersey and going to court was worth it because Chopper will be flying back home with her.
"I feel great," she said. "I'm bringing him home."
Like so many hurricane stories, the tale of Chopper has plenty of twists and turns: First, he survived Katrina in Arguello's damaged south Kenner home, along with two beagles; then spent some time at the huge animal rescue site set up at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales; and finally ended up in New Jersey thanks to a Garden State animal rescue group.
As Katrina approached, Arguello evacuated to her sister's home in Houston, in an SUV filled with her sister and four other family members who had been visiting, along with all of their luggage. There was no room for Chopper and her two beagles.
"The van was full with stuff and people," she said.
So a reluctant Arguello set out five buckets of food and five buckets of water and left her pets in God's hands.
"I prayed all the time that they would be OK," Arguello said. "And they were."
Her south Kenner home received roof damage and several inches of water. She returned Sept. 7 to check on her dogs and immediately took them to the temporary animal shelter in Gonzales.
Arguello said that although some people tried to make it look like she had abandoned her pets, she had no other choice -- not when she evacuated for Katrina, nor when she dropped the animals off in Gonzales.
"My sister's house is not fixed for a dog," she said. Plus, there was no room, with two evacuated families already sharing the Houston home. "She had a full house. People were sleeping on the couches and on the floor."
When she returned to Lamar-Dixon to pick up her dogs during the last week in September, they were gone. She found the two beagles in Gonzales with help from the Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, but two months of Internet searches and phone calls couldn't locate Chopper.
In November, she turned to the Humane Society of the United States, which tracked the Great Dane to Flemington, N.J., where he had been adopted by Pam Behmke and renamed Pluto.
Like many animal groups throughout the country, People for Animals in Hillside, N.J. had offered to shelter some of the animals at Lamar-Dixon. The group brought Chopper to New Jersey; Behmke adopted him on Oct. 23. When Arguello finally tracked down Chopper, Behmke refused to part with the dog.
Behmke, who couldn't be reached for comment Thursday and did not attend the court hearing, argued that Arguello abandoned Chopper and that he had been rightfully adopted. According to accounts published in the Newark Star-Ledger, Chopper was treated well by the Behmkes and got along well with another dog they owned.
Arguello's attorney, Alexis van der Sterre from Newark, said the case has attracted attention throughout the state.
"A lot of people have expressed interest in it up here," she said, adding that Chopper attended Thursday's hearing and was well-behaved. "He's a fabulous dog, a really handsome, funny, goofy dog. It was definitely a happy ending."
She said she doesn't know whether Behmke will appeal. Behmke's attorney could not be reached Thursday.
In her decision, Somerset County Judge Rosemarie Williams acknowledged the pain of both Arguello and Behmke: "It is a bittersweet decision the court makes today," she said.
But she decided Chopper belongs in Kenner.
"The court believes it rightfully reunites a woman who has been through a terrible tragedy, the likes of which few other Americans have had the misfortune to experience," she wrote. "Perhaps this court's decision will play a part in helping to rebuild her life."
. . . . . . .
Dana - You are not alone and Tobias is not forgotten. I am a stealth volunteer worker, we have about 700 people in our group and although we, (as a group), are trying to reunite pets with people rather than the reverse - we have had many members finding pictures during their searches and asking "Could this be Tobias?". I hope and pray that we can help you be reunited with your pet. I thank you for sharing your story - it shows how even a kind, caring, and responsible pet owner can be separated from their animals through NO FAULT OF THEIR OWN. Thanks for kicking a hole in the "they dont deserve their pets back because they abandoned them" BS that so many idiots are spewing. Please dont ever let them get under your skin - they are wrong - dead wrong.
HERE IS WHY PEOPLE DON'T HAVE THEIR PETS, BECAUSE ASSHOLES LIKE THIS WERE ALLOWED TO TAKE THEM FROM LAMAR DIXON. Wanna meet a jerk who is full of himself? read on. I have deleted some nonessential paragraphs. This many claims to know something about animal rescue, he portrays himlsef as an expert. He is nothing more than a DOG THIEF AND hsus SHOULD BE LOOKING INTO THE DOZENS OF DOGS HE CLAIMS TO HAVE GOTTEN AT tylertown and Lamar Dixon. Eric
From: Dave Gourley <@yahoo.com>
To: ericrice3@comcast.net
Subject: Fwd: MY OPINION
Date: Wed, 25 Jan 2006 17:37:22 +0000
Date: Tue, 24 Jan 2006 19:06:35 -0800 (PST)
From: Dave Gourley @yahoo.com>
Subject: MY OPINION
To: @att.net
When I finally reached Lamar-Dixon, there was a power
strugle going on between HSUS & SPCA - The night
before I got there, thugs broke into the facilities
abd stole 60 pit bulls....BTW (By the Way) did I fail
to mention that it is still LEGAL TO FIGHT DOGS
IN LA.
Rottweiler Rescue was organized and running - They had
seperated
Rotties as they came into the various barns and
brought them into a SECURE area, They were bathed and
cleaned, medicated and fed,
and those were the ones in crates, that is not
counting the dogs that were running free...
The locals - the people that the Military had brought
in were stealing anything that was not secured or had
armed MP's guarding
animals or medications...
I went to the local mess hall for some food, the
stench was over powering...while awaiting food - there
was a call over the loudspeaker system for volunteers
to help clean the bathrooms - NOT one of the those
people got up of their butts to clean up their own
mess.
You are right I should forget & forgive.
TH authorities wanted to prevent rescue groups from
taking out any dogs...they were under the impression
that we were there to breed the dogs - that we were
authorized by the feds to take dogs for breeding...The
American Rottweiler Rescue group were & are a spay &
neuter organization.
The dogs I was given were from Tylertown, MS.
- THERE WERE NO RECORDS - of owners to reunite with.
Rotties were being bred with pit bulls to make a
stronger fighting dog - how dumb is this...or they
were muzzled so they couldn't defend themselves an
offered as bait to the pits...
MY HUMBLE OPINION:
Those dogs who where eventually released by
Lamar-Dixon where all done so with microchips and as
much paperwork as possible and then were shipped to
waiting rescue units across the US. They were all sick
- full of parasites - most were dehydrated, tick
infested - with more diseases than the normal dog
should have.
All the dogs that managed to be rescued from La, MS &
Alabama
DESERVE to live better lives than they were.
Dogs who have been willingly left by their owners to
fend for themselves because thety were taking up too
much room in the car or truck - deserve to go to
better homes.
MORE FROM THE DOG THIEF. WHAT AN ARROGANT ASSHOLE. AND HE ADMITS HE WAS GIVEN ANIMALS FROM LAMAR DIXON.
DOES ANYONE THINK HE FOUND AN OWNER? this guy IS THE PROBLEM. DOES ANYONE WANT HIM COMING TO THE DISASTER IN YOUR HOMETOWN? arrogant jerk with no regard for what some of these people went through. To make a blanket statement that no owner should get their pet back is criminal. This man and his "group" should be looked into.
From: Dave Gourley @yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 23 Jan 2006 18:58:14 -0800 (PST)
To: @aol.com
I have not been able to read the orginial thread -
however regarding the dogs of Katrina -
We were instrumental in helping with the rescue of
over 100 Rotts from Lamar-Dixon, in Gonzales, La.
I managed to rescue 3 rotts and assisted with the
rescue of one Bullmastiff...The American Rottweiler
Club mobilized & got out over 100 dogs themselves.
I have never in the 30 + years of being in the dog
world ever seen dogs of all breeds go thru the TRAUMA
that these dogs have.
Personal opinion -
NO DOG SHOULD BE RE-UNITED WITH PAST FAMILY
MEMEBERS!!!
Now this is a brash statement - why would I make
it...these people left their dogs...dogs were left on
the side of the road - in crates - covered with
clothing or blankets in 100 + degree heat.
They were abandoned by their owners an put through
tremendous fear of the unknown, rescued by strangers,
given a fresh look at like through the eyes of fear.
If the people who are yelling at this dog are trying
to make the dog forget - IT WILL NOT HAPPEN - they are
only reinforcing the fear and growing mistrust that
the dog is going through.
This dog needs to totally resocialized from the get go
and that means a NEW FAMILY - foster care - whatever -
but should not be returned to it's owners -
Of the dogs that I rescued - the foster/permamnet
families - started from the begining - I understand
that Rottweilers are not Poodles - I am beginning to
beleive that Poodles maybe more intelligent - but they
still have memories - Rotties are less likely to
accept immediate change...they are more suspect, but
they also realize and accept HONEST caring and sense
that the people who are working to rehab these dogs in
questions are real in their efforts.
Poodles are a hearty breed - but are they as hearty as
rotts - I do not know - But what I do know is the dogs
who were abandoned
and had to fend for themselves - regardless of breed -
they are still somewhat distrustfull of their new
areas
Once a dog has been rescued and re-introduced to
society they should NOT be re-traumitized - they
should not be returned to those that abandoned them in
the their time of need!
Dave Gourley
Sandragon Kennels
Home of 1 Bullmastiff,1 Standard Poodle,2
Rottweilers,1 Chinese Crested & 5 Border Terriers
Unfortunately this type of attitude by Dave Gourley and others individual and groups like him will have a lasting impact in future disasters. They will never admit or realize that their actions caused more harm than good.
The immediate consequence will be people that are not accredited will not be allowed into the next disaster zone. Or if they do get in they will be subject to possible arrest.
I just attended the American Humane's National Emergency Management Summit. Participants on the National level included FEMA and the Homeland Security.
As we speak a plan is being put in place that would preclude others not accredited from helping out. Currently the large organizations such as HSUS and the SPCA among others are working with Both State and Federal agencies to work within the command structure of the next disaster. We can expect that certain agencies will not look the other way for those are just trying to help.
As anyone that was down there knows, this in itself can be disastrous as there was never enough personal on the ground to get the job done.
Currently I am working on finding and gathering all necessary information so anyone that wishes to gain accreditation can do so. This will allow those for those that do not want to be part of the large organizations to get accredited on there own. However, that said, there will be a command structure; those that participate in any Emergency will be expected to be part of and take direction of those that are in command.
I hope to have all the pertinent information up within ten days. Once that is up I will invite others for suggestions on how as a community we can not only provide timely and effective help for the animals, but also for their owners.
Michael Lohr
Even after reading Dana's story, I don't think anonymous realizes the extent of what these people have been through. I made three trips to NOLA to help with pet rescue. Just being there for short periods of time have taken an emotional toll on me. Witnessing the devastation and speaking with some of the survivors has made me realize how heroic each of them are for just being able to go on!
Less than two weeks ago I was able to reunite one of my rescued Katrina dogs with his family, who are now in Houston. They are so thrilled and so thankful to have him back. They lost absolutely everything to Katrina, and getting one of their pets back meant the world to them. They are starting over with absolutely nothing. Just take a moment and really think about that. Everything they have ever owned in their entire lifetime is gone and can never be recovered. They not only have to accept that, they have to start over in a new state, removed from everything and everyone that was familiar to them. In spite of this, these people are thankful for every kindness and any small material offering. They are living one day at a time and thanking God for it. I'm not at all sure that I could handle it with the grace that I've seen in the brave survivors of Katrina.
It sounded to me like the Rotties in question were fighting dogs --in which case, they are better off. And, as Eric once said here, their owners are not looking for them, since only good owners go to all the bother to try and find their pets.
So HSUS and ASPCA are looking for the big fat FEMA $$$ after taking off with the Katrina donation dollar, eh?
Does anyone know if HSUS and/or ASPCA got FEMA $$ in connection with their work under FEMA post-Katrina?
The first dog and the dog before the last dog to appear in this Peta's video look like Tobias. can anyone capture these pictures?
http://www.helpinganimals.com/f-katrina-videos.asp
Rotties - I will send you the pictures of the one we returned to 3 kids who climbed all over him and cried for 45 minutes when we pulled up.
TO SAY ALL ROTTIES ARE FIGHTING DOGS IS RIDICULOUS. THIS MAN COULD HAVE JUDGED AS HE FOUND THE OWNERS.
ALL ROTTIES AT LAMAR WERE NOT FIGHTING DOGS.
sURE IT COULD HAVE BEEN A VERY HIGH PERCENTAGE BUT I RESCUED DOZENS OF ROTTIES THAT WERE NOT AND ONES I AM SURE THE OWNERS MISSED.
eRIC
I said the "Rotties in question." I never said ALL Rotties.
I understand, but these dogs didn't just come from one person or place, they were animals rescued all over the city...a random sample...just like the owners would be a random sample.
Most of the dogs looked horrible after what they had been through. That doesn't mean that some owner was not forced to leave them at gunpoint or all the other horrible stories we know about.
The stuff he mentions is what ALL or MOST dogs looked like, not just Rotties. If we had follwed his thinking the Rottie we returned to the kids/family would have been shipped to a knew home without a care in the world. It was not in good shape when picked up.
This guy didn't get assigned all the "fighting" dogs at Lamar. And HE SAY NO DOGS SHOULD GO TO OWNERS, NOT JUST THESE ROTTIES.
There was a better way to handle it than just deciding all of these dogs were from BAD people. I bet you NOT a single one was given a chance to be put on PF.
No person should make broad sweeping statements about these people. He should have talked to each owner he could find individually and decide. We did and it was an eye opening experience to find out many of these people were good hearted people loved the animals as much as anyone else -- not abusers, not
They didn't have control of the conditions of the animal as it was turned over the Lamar after many days on the streets or in a house.
"I volunteer at a shelter that rescued and took in a lot of Katrina pets on the west coast. They find the owners, the owners don't want the pets back because they have been altered or its easier to get a new puppy."
What shelter? Are the animals listed on Petfinder? Do you have any Shih Tzus or Chihuahuas? I'm also looking for a Basset Hound. It's been my experience that people want their pets back. Thats why we are still looking for them, even now.
By the way, Dana recently adopted a Katrina dog from a Calif shelter. He was a dog that some people thought could be Tobias. She continues to search for Tobias too.
People like David Gourley are why nice people like Glenda Smith don't have their pets back even though we KNOW and HAVE PICTURES OF THEM AT LAMAR DIXON. tHINK OF THIS "PICTURES AT LAMAR," THEN dAVE gOURLEY COMES ALONG AND THE STATE and HSUS TRUSTS HIM NOT TO PLAY GOD. So known rescued Lamar DIxon dogs go out to jerks like him never to be seen again. Glenda's dogs were well cared for and loved. He should be arrested. He was entrusted to help PEOPLE regain one little piece of their lives, which he has decided to steal. If he thinks an animal was abused he can report that to the LASPCA the legal authority for New Oreans.
Agreed and HSUS is looking into him and groups he is assocaited with as well as the STB DA and the States Attorney General.
Any group he is with should NEVER pull from a disaster. Nobody can trust him or his group.!!!
Given that, in the eyes of the law, pets are "property". What is the difference between looting and keeping pets from their owners? It is understandable that someone actively involved in animal rescue might have a jaded perspective. Seeing cruelty causes you to become jaded, suspicious and possibly how hoarders get started - no homes are good enough so I better keep them all.
But homestly, does Mr Gurley truly believe that he has the ability to accurately assess 100,000 + people?
To Anonymous Poster #1 living on the West Coast:
Your remarks were horribly insensitive and callous. You said Dana and others should stop being victims and should kick the government's butts. Big, big talk from someone who has not lost their home or survived a flood or lost their beloved pets. You're all nice and cozy in another location but maybe someday you will know what it's like to lose everything in an earthquake or your home will be in a mudslide. You even suggested they were uneducated or poor in your superior tone. So what? Lots of people are uneducated and poor but that does not mean they have not been victims and have not suffered. You even stated you did volunteer work at a shelter on the West Coast that took in some Katrina animals and the owners didn't want them back. Maybe some of them didn't but thousands are still searching for their pets and Dana is one of them. Why don't you get up off your butt and stop criticizing people who are in a lot worse situation you are!
In reference to Dave Gourley:
I can only assume that Dave Gourley who has posted on this blog is some wierdo from another planet or else he would display more intelligence. He apparently thinks he knows all there is to know. Well, let me tell you something, Dave, when you typed in capital letters that "It is still legal to fight dogs in Louisiana", you showed your ignorance. Dogfighting is not legal in Louisiana and has not been for many, many years. You must be high on drugs or smoking those funny cigarettes if you believe your own words. By the way, did anyone notice that in Dave's signature, he lists the dogs he has - all purebreds, not a mixed breed in the bunch. Guess a regular ole dog wouldn't be good enough for a guy who thinks he's a rocket scientist.
Dave Gourley uses the name "Sandragon Kennels" in his signature.
I just conducted a Google search on Sandragon Kennels and, sure enough, he and wife Sandra are listed as the owners of this place located in Pottstown, PA. They list as their profession as:
"Breeders, vendors and suppliers of Bullmastiffs, Border Terriers, Standard and Miniature Poodles." Well, whattayouknow, a puppymiller!
Pennsylvania is second only to Missouri in puppy mills so I guess he fits right in. And, to think that he got his hands on some Katrina animals (all purebred, of course).
Actually,I think the poster from the West Coast had a good general point that got lost:
Last week ARNO only had five people to man the feeding stations... So why are not the Gulf Coast people who stayed and who are able, esp. those who are being helped by the Stealth group, not helping more to feed and care for all the homeless dogs and other animals on the loose???
My only opinion after reading many of the replies and judgements of both sides,is this. This would not have happened at such an astronomical scale, if for one thing, that this society and government did not allow for people to take their pets to evacuate, before the storm and the aftermath. We must not judge so much the pet owners, but our society as a whole who undervalues life at many levels; animals, poverty, and race. I feel the biggest thing that we can do is to push our society and government to prevent this from happening again at any level, by allowing animals to be brought along during an evacuation and or rescue, period.
To the poster who wrote the following:
"So why are not the Gulf Coast people who stayed and who are able, esp. those who are being helped by the Stealth group, not helping more to feed and care for all the homeless dogs and other animals on the loose???"
FYI, many locals ARE helping, I am one of them! The majority of evacuees searching for their pets are still searching while located in another state. They have been unable to return for various reasons. Most of those who have returned are trying to restore their homes and have no cars in order to travel. Many are STILL waiting for FEMA trailers as temporary roofs over their heads. The locals who have been able to help with the rescue efforts are doing the best they can but there's always some killjoy sitting safely in another state spouting off criticisms. Until you have walked in another's shoes, do not judge them.
"FYI, many locals ARE helping."
But yet again, only five people, (most of whom were from out of town)were manning the ARNO feeding stations last week. More than that are in a position to help those poor animals, if they wanted to do so. That gap needs to be addressed and bridged, not shouted down.
NOLA ANIMALS: THEIR FUTURE IS YOU!
If you do one thing for animals this year—please come to this meeting.
Homeless pets and strays have no one but you to help them.
WHAT: Please attend a critical meeting to brainstorm ideas for the future of
animal rescue in New Orleans. Meet ARNO co-founders Jane Garrison, David
Meyer and Pia Salk. Hear amazing rescue and reunion stories. Most
importantly, discover your role in the ongoing rescue effort.
DATE: Wednesday, February 1, 2006
TIME: 7:00 p.m.
PLACE: Bourbon Orleans Hotel
717 Orleans Street
*Valet parking available for $10
Refreshments will be served!!
Visit: http://www.AnimalRescueNewOrleans.com
...Best Friends will close Celebration Station at the end of February (thank you Best Friends for hanging in there so long!) and most other groups left
New Orleans months ago. The ONLY hope for the animals in New Orleans is YOU!
Please attend this pivotal meeting to discuss the future of animal rescue in
New Orleans. Sign up to volunteer and learn about the gift we’ll leave the
hurricane’s most innocent survivors.
We are committed to helping you help the animals. Come hear our plans and
find out how you can volunteer!
For the animals,
Jane Garrison (along with David Meyer and Pia Salk)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Jane Garrison: 843-343-8887, JaneGarrison@comcast.net
HAD TIGER SURVIVED DAVID GOURLEY WOULD HAVE NOT GIVEN HIM BACK. sicko!
TIGER – The Final Chapter (01-26-06)
It all started with two Lovebirds that I brought home to Jacksonville, Fl,
from my second of three volunteer trips to New Orleans.
I have heard people criticize rescuers for taking animal’s home with them.
Logically, I understand this…. but you would have had to been there,… amidst
the death, destruction, starvation and sadness, to see why it was necessary
for some of us to hold a life in our hands and not let go.
I listed the little lovebirds on Petfinder.com, knowing it was the right thing to do and
on the personally selfish side, I so desperately needed a “happy ending” to
this horrific ordeal. I left out one thing in the description, so that I could be absolutely sure that the correct owners would be able to find their birds. One bird was missing an eye. Within 2 weeks of listing them, I received an email, from one of the wonderful Stealth Volunteers, looking for 2 lovebirds and 3 cockatiels. After a couple of emails, I saw the phrase “one was missing an eye”. My first thought was, “BINGO…. We have a winner!!” I cannot tell you how much joy I felt at that moment. Maybe there could be a little “happily ever after” ending to part of my
New Orleans story. The Stealther, gave me the owners phone number, so that I could have the pleasure of delivering the wonderful news to them. I knew where the three cockatiels had gone, and made a phone call to confirm that they were still there, and alive. Then I made my phone call.
The owners are two wonderful men, both retired policemen (one federal) who
had been lifelong New Orleans residents. Both have severe heart problems. Like countless others, they lost everything when the levees broke, and flooded their East New Orleans home. Their description of “what happened” is not unlike countless stories I heard in the 7 ½ weeks that I spent in New Orleans. The hurricane had passed.. the sun was out, and they heard an explosion that shook their home. Within 3 minutes they were standing in their home, in chest high water. They escaped with only their lives, nothing else.
Rosario, answered the phone with his distinctive New Orleans accent. I told him who
I was and that I had his birds. He yelled out to his brother, Glenn to pick up the phone.
Then asked me to repeat what I had just said. They sounded SO happy….
then in a brief second, I heard Glenn say “What about Tiger…. Did you find Tiger???”
I stuttered..”Who is Tiger?” Over the next hour, Glenn told me all about Tiger, his
16 year old, Sheltie/Border Collie Mix, who was the love of his life. He described
how the only thing in this world that mattered to him was this dog. Even describing
his sleepless and tearful nights and even having a nervous breakdown… all because of
Tiger. He knew, if he could find Tiger, he would be alright. We all cried about Tiger.
I told them both, that I would do everything in my power to find him.
For the past month, I have done nothing but think about Tiger. I have written endless
letters to everyone that I could think of, looked at thousand of pictures of dogs,
and received enthusiastic help from COUNTLESS Stealth Volunteers & rescuers across this
country. Everyone rallied to help find Tiger. Every few days, I would receive tearful calls
from the brothers, just checking in to see if I had heard anything yet. I have grown very
close to these brothers, and cannot describe in words, just how important this was to
me, to find Tiger.
Yesterday, I received a call from Rosario, with Glenn in the background. They told me
that they had made a trip to New Orleans, the past weekend, to look through their flooded
house for important paperwork that they were missing. This trip home was very emotional
to both of them. We talked for about an hour, and I told Rosario that I was still doing
everything that I could to try to find Tiger. Then Rosario whispered to me (so Glenn could not hear), “I think he is dead” I said… “Who Tiger?.... Why do you think that?”
He told me when they were at the house, he “thinks” that he saw the skull of a dog, behind Glenn’s bed.
As much as I don’t want to believe that this is Tiger, everything points in the direction, that it is.
Tiger always slept on Glenn’s bed and loved to watch TV. He had even learned how to hit
the play button on the remote of the DVD player. Come to find out, Tiger liked watching
“naughty” movies!
Rosario, told me to keep looking for him. However, I think it is his attempt to keep this horrible information from his brother. He is so afraid that Glenn will loose the will to live. He just wants
to give Glenn hope…
I had planned on waiting to deliver the birds to them, until I could take Tiger home.
Unfortunately, this is never going to happen. So I must take their bird’s home. I don’t know if I will be able to look at Glenn with a straight face… and without tears, when he asks me about Tiger. I think that Glenn could live with the thought that maybe Tiger is somewhere in a new home, with people loving him. I cannot take this away from him.
To all of you, who have helped so much, in trying to Find Tiger, I cannot thank you enough.
My love to each and every one of you.
Tearfully,
Nancy Clifford
Jacksonville Florida
PS. (01-26-06 8pm) I just got off the phone with the brothers, They both know the truth, now.
It was heartwrenching. The one brother told the other while I was on the phone...
I could hear him scream... and burst into tears.
Maybe they can begin to heal now....
This has been a day of tears...
How horribly sad! I'm still crying. And this is only one of so many other stories. Thank you Nancy for sharing it. I hope all of us, that care, will put to light our society's conscience to never force a person to leave their pet behind.
This is for Anonymous 1 about the
uneducated and poor by what is written in the story. Well, Sir as for me and my family, we are not uneducated neither poor. Yes we are victims but also survivors. We are resilent. Maybe my lack of spelling errors and my sentences are poorly put, but its my story unedited. This isnt a spelling or writing contest. Its a story about
exactly what happend that week of Katrina. Yes, my father has a business since 1974. Curious are you? Well always think before you write and judge another. For you shall never know what lies around the corner waiting for you and to
one day have your life changed forever. Then perhaps, your ugly,
judgemental attitude will change.
Victims lie in there pity but survivors get up on their feet and move forward like I have done and so has my family done also. In a blink of an eye, the Lord can wipe out everything you have so count your blessings as we have counted ours. Good friends, breath, food,
toilet paper, my new fema trailor which arrived friday, all the people who made it out alive. And yes I do have disabilites but you cant tell by looking at me. I dont carry it around on my shoulder and you cant see it physically. You should really take a step back and watch what you say. We are people with feelings and hearts. We are living in New Orleans, La right now. my age is 35 and I graduated from high school and attended college. I am not a snob as you appear to be. Im compassionate and understanding. I have my dog's picture all over the internet and yes his description also. Take the time and investigate that. As for the governement, Well we dont need to kick his butt but it took me from 10/3/05 of ordering a fema trailor and it arrived on 1/27/06.
Now I just need to wait for them to
set up the electricity.I have always been an independent person and too me, just getting this fema
trailor is a first step of normalcy back in my life. Iam so looking forward to having a bed to sleep on and not a sofa. Iam really happy about it. Its the first sign of normalcy since 8/29/05. Everyone has their opions and those opions are like assholes and everyone has them. Dont piety me at all for God has not brought me and my family this far too leave us. He has a plan and hopefully one day I will find out what that is. God bless you, sir.
Dana Liebert
"Judge not, lest ye be judged."
One of my favorite quotes and I'm not even Christian.
Or how about this one: "Before you accuse, criticise, and abuse, walk a mile in my shoes."
Dana thank you for sharing your story.
"Doggy Dictionary" (from dogs View)
LEASH: A strap which attaches to your collar, enabling you to lead your person where you want him/her to go.
DOG BED: any soft, clean surface, such as the white bedspread in the guest room or the newly upholstered couch in the living room.
DROOL: Is what you do when your persons have food and you don’t. To do this properly you must sit as close as you can and look sad and let the drool fall to the floor, or better yet, on their laps.
SNIFF: A social custom to use when you greet other dogs. Place your nose as close as you can to the other dog’s rear end and inhale deeply, repeat several times, or until your person makes you stop.
GARBAGE CAN: A container which your neighbors put out once a week to test your ingenuity. You must stand on your hind legs and try to push the lid off with your nose. If you do it right you are rewarded with margarine wrappers to shred, beef bones to consume and moldy crusts of bread.
BICYCLES: Two-wheeled exercise machines, invented for dogs to control body fat. To get maximum aerobic benefit, you must hide behind a bush and dash out, bark loudly and run alongside for a few yards; the person then swerves and falls into the bushes, and you prance away.
DEAFNESS: This is a malady which affects dogs when their person want them in and they want to stay out. Symptoms include staring blankly at the person, then running in the opposite direction, or lying down.
THUNDER: This is a signal that the world is coming to an end. Humans remain amazingly calm during thunderstorms, so it is necessary to warn them of the danger by trembling uncontrollably, panting, rolling your eyes wildly, and following at their heels.
WASTEBASKET: This is a dog toy filled with paper, envelopes, and old candy wrapper. When you get bored, turn over the basket and strew the papers all over the house until your person comes home
SOFAS: Are to dogs like napkins are to people. After eating it is polite to run up and down the front of the sofa and wipe your whiskers clean.
BATH: This is a process by which the humans drench the floor, walls and themselves. You can help by shaking vigorously and frequently.
LEAN: Every good dog’s response to the command “sit!” especially if your person is dressed for an evening out. Incredibly effective before black-tie events.
BUMP: The best way to get your human’s attention when they are drinking a fresh cup of coffee or tea.
GOOSE BUMP: A maneuver to use as a last resort when the Regular Bump doesn’t get the attention you require.....especially effective when combined with The Sniff. See above.
LOVE: Is a feeling of intense affection, given freely and without restriction. The best way you can show your love is to wag your tail. If you’re lucky, a human will love you in return.
"PRAYER OF A STRAY"
Dear God please send me somebody who'll care!
I'm tired of running, I'm sick with despair.
My body is aching, it's so racked with pain.
And Dear God I pray as I run in the rain,
That someone will love me and give me a home.
A warm cozy bed I can call my own
My last owner neglected me and chased me away
To rummage in garbage and live as a stray.
But now God I'm tired and hungry and cold.
And I'm afraid that I'll never grow old.
They've chased me with sticks and hit me with stones
While I run in the streets just looking for bones!
I'm not really bad God, please help if you can.
For I have become just a "VICTIM OF MAN!"
I'm wormy Dear God and I'm ridden with fleas
and All that I want is an owner to please!
If you find one for me God, I'll try to be good
I won't run away and I'll do as I should.
I don't think I'll make it too long on my own,
Cause I'm getting so weak and I'm so all alone.
Each night as I sleep in the bushes I cry,
Cause I'm so afraid God, that I'm gonna die!
And I've got so much love and devotion to give,
That I should be given a new chance to live.
So Dear God PLEASE, PLEASE answer my prayer
And send me somebody who WILL really care...
This is in response to the first post. I am that poster. I owe an apology to Dana, and only Dana, for any percieved mean spiritedness or not taking your situation seriously. That's not what my intent was. I was asking questions. They were fueled by the fact that I was scammed from this site by a person who used very similar syntax/story in their communications. Thanks to the poster who sent the site of Tobias I got some answers. I also said how my heart went out to all involved. This is frustrating on so many levels.(Katrina) Also I keep seeing pleas for help in NOLA for food monitoring. I know that there are residents helping, but when I heard 500+- showed up at the weekend to find pets, I wondered why some aren't helping ARNO. (even 100 could make a difference) I hope and pray residents show up at Jane Garrisons meeting. To the person who wondered if the shelter I volunteer at had any similar dogs to Tobias, no. We got the ones no one wants, pits, mixes, not the cute or cuddley ones. How about North Shore Rescue. And I am not a snob. I am self employed, 7 days a week and on Mondays I wake up at 6 and drive 2 hours to the shelter and spend the day cleaning barns, sheds, dog runs, you know the yukky stuff, so the rescuers can do their job.
And another thing. Two months ago I brought home to my family one of our rescues that got lost in the rush to take care of Katrina pets. A 10 year old setter that had been starved/abused/neglected and lived outside for most of that time. You all know the drill, no sleep, vet bills, great satisfaction when they finally wag their tail. But it made me realize that there are thousands of small disasters (like this dog) out there every day. If there was anything good to come out of Katrina it was that it brought the plight of all animals front and center. IF we are to do any good for them we need the ability to ask questions and have differing opinions. Again I am sorry if people misunderstood me. By the way, I'm not a sir, I'm a late 50's woman.
I find this on Craiglist...
Reply to:stargzr714@aol.com Date: 2005-12-01, 8:26AM CST
Prior to Katrina I had to go to Florida, so I boarded my dog at his vets. Katrina hit where I was in Florida and my flight back to New Orleans was cancelled. I contacted the vet to make sure my baby was ok and he assured me that the building was secure and nietzsche would be fine. I tried to drive back, but was turned away. The hurricane devastated most of new orleans, but not anywhere near where my baby was boarded (in the french quarter on rampart at Dr. Mike's Animal House). I contacted every rescue organization known to man and was told that as soon as they could they would go rescue him....i get an email from the vets sister (she saw my postings online) and a friend of the vets (also found my posting online) assuring me everything is fine and my baby was ok - the sister even left me a phone number so I could speak with her - when I called she said the vet was considering letting the animals go or putting them to sleep - i told her absolutely not, that he did not have my permission - that i had rescue organizations on their way....days go by and she said she hadn't spoken to her brother ... i started heading towards Lamar Dixon, hoping to find nietzsche and i get a call from the vet that he was ok, but "unfortunately had to euthanize my dog"...no reason...when i finally got back home i went and spoke to the vet - his response is that all i said was that i would pay any expenses (but conveniently left out the rest of the conversation of "don't let him loose....don't put him to sleep, rescue organizations are coming."...he also said that nietzsche was "too big" - he was 50 lbs...his next excuse was that he couldn't just throw him in the car with all the people and animals he evacuated with - he had a pickup and hasn't he ever heard of a muzzle? he also responded he was "not just a vet, but also a citizen of new orleans and had no idea that rescue organizations would come into the city"...i do not think any of his excuses justify putting my baby of 10 years to sleep...i am heartbroken and do not know what my rights are....my soul has been taken and i want it back
sorry for the long description, but i wanted to give an idea of what happened. what i do not understand is how every other person in this city seemed to know rescue organizations were coming in....everywhere you go you see LSPCA, HSUS, Noah's Wish's marks of rescue....but Dr. Mike decided nietzsche would be better off dead....there is no damage to his clinic...he is up and running like nothing happened....is there any legal right i might have against him? can he be sued for breaching his duty? pain and suffering? anything? what right do i have, if any? someone please help.
thank you for listening. this is in or around New Orleans
To Nietzsche's guardian:
I am so sorry for the death of your beloved pet, it was inhumane and senseless on the part of the veterinarian. When you left your dog with the vet, you entrusted him with the care of Nietzsche with an oral agreement, which is legal and binding. In Louisiana, pets have no legal value as anything other than "property" (as with most states), however, the vet destroyed your "property" without your permission. If you can afford an attorney, gather up all the emails exchanged between you and the vet - along with records of phone calls you made to him - and see if you can find an attorney who would want to take on a case like this. You might also want to file a complaint against the vet with the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association, however, they are pretty clannish and cover for each other....but at least you would have a complaint on record. Be sure to tell everyone you know what happened without actually slandering or libeling the vet. I'm sure others would be horrified and certainly not give this guy any of their business.
David Gourley has his head so far up his @$$ I'm surprised he can breathe. As a NON LOCAL living and working in St. Bernard Parish (animal rescue) I can tell you that these folks DO love their pets. (WITH ALL THEIR HEARTS!)
They are grieving, and they don't deserve the holier than thou attitudes put forth here. You haven't lived among these people, and you have NO idea what you're talking about. Grow up.
Chin up Dana, you and others like you in this Parish give me the energy I need to go on. You[re full of heart, you are brave, resilient, and you've lived through something I don't know I'd be strong enough to live through.
There is something to be said for only organized, acredited rescuers. But, I think that might have a crippleing effect on an immediate rescue job. In New Orleans the big groups came in, got tons of money, prevented a lot of good people from doing a thankless job, and then they left with the cute animals and all the donations, fast. The thing with disasters is you never know when they will happen, so often its up to plain people to do the job. Does that mean a group of us couldn't (on my own dime) show up to help? I remember reading that vets and small rescue groups were held up with paper work or getting somebodies okay and that caused a lot of animals to die. And I am so suspect now because of the 50+million dollars in donations that went out to mainly the bigger groups, that I wonder if some of the control is about that. Can you imagine HSUS wanting to give up millions of dollars. Don't get me wrong, the planning and meetings are a good thing especially if you can get the government there. And I still kinda believe in a few of the larger groups. But I just think what Jane, Best friends, Eric etc etc could have done with 5 million dollars.
Here's a thought about Tobias and the bassett and others like them. Peta and North Shore Animal Rescue League came in and then left fast, with a lot of cute, photo op type dogs. I remember seeing their web site videos in Oct? I don't recall these particular animals on petfinder or anywhere else. They always have bigger dogs on there Katrina link ups. If someone could find these groups promotional feeds from october and compare with what was listed. I have a feeling some of the "better" pets (and please thats loosely said, I own a mutt) just disappeared into thin air into new homes. If ever there was a case for pets to go back to their owners, take a look at Pasados site about Butter the pit bull. It was said that he was one of the nasty/scared rescues. Even bit someone in fear. Who would guess he was cute and someones lap dog. Dig that Dave Gourley.
Dana -
Please do not let Poster #1's comments upset you. I fully agree that her post was offensive, but who cares if your spelling was not perfect? I know people who hold Ph.D's and can't spell worth spit. The point is that you related your heartbreak and misfortunes beautifully so that most of us could empathize with your situation. The very fact that you have lost your potbellied pig and your beloved Tobias would cause you to be justifiably griefstricken. Hopefully, Tobias will be found soon and you can let us all know. We are with you in spirit and I admire the efforts you have expended in searching for your little dog.
I believe poster #1 apologized to Dana. And I'm not so good at the web, where or how do you get information on that Dave Gourley guy. The site I found on Sandragon Kennels is about someone else and in Florida. I must be looking in the wrong place.
I really need some help and don't know where to go beyond this photo....I don't think spiritsmom, who made this site, knows much more than just putting these photos together. Please help us find the dog in this photo.
ERIC- Can you put the photo here?
And one of Tobias?
Here is an email I received from Dana, Tobias's owner:
To: Parrothead
Anita,
Thank you so much for helping me out.
I appreciate it alot and dont mind at all
you sending my story to eric. You and everyone
that has helped me over the past 5 mnths are
guardian angels sent from above to help me.
For i only have a comp at work for now. I just
received my fema trailor frid.and now waiting for
them to put in a temp pole for electric. i cant
wait. this will be the first step of normalacy in my life
since 8/29/05. write or call anytime. i love people and
making such great friends like you. this fellow resembles
my tobias but i dont know how to contact person or
where he is. all your help helps me out. at night i have no
comp. just here at work. but get in trouble if caught using it.
maybe in a few weeks i can begin searching thru all those flick
pic. see what you can find out
thank you
dana
-----Original Message-----
From: Parrot Head
To: dana
Sent: Mon, 30 Jan 2006 18:02:08 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Please tell me "yes"
I posted this on PF but no one responded and I could swear this is the closest I've seen to Tobias. What do you think?
http://www.flickr.com/photos/spiritsmom/81309560/in/set-1734394/
The second email:
To: Parrothead
I think it looks alot like tobias too.
where do i go from here with this.
i m not great with the comp like all you
guys. help?
dana
This email was forwarded to me today:
Photos are eliminated for space
PLEASE CROSS POST THIS WHOLE MESSAGE....
Hi,
Each week Lisa sends out the cries and pleas for help for many and sometimes it falls on silent eyes or ears. It only takes a minute to send this on. Here it is now Valentines and These Little babies are hoping Someone Will HAVE A HEART AND ADOPT or RESCUE A GIFT OF LOVE that keeps on giving.
We each know the sorrow and joy of holding puppies, but have you ever thought how it feels to the little puppy licking your hand and it is the only way they can say Thank You! Then suddenly you have to walk that last mile. I have had to do this volunteering and I know the pain. I am sure many of you have had to do the same thing. We can help Lisa by at least trying to contact others, as so many of you have done for us. She also has one named Sadie who has lost its home because of Chemo!
I realize many of you are special rescue, but if you can cross post this Highly Important Plea for these puppies it will be appreciated. Please do not open it unless you want to cry. So many at this shelter are killed daily and are in need of love and compassion. All I am asking is to just cross post it so they can at least have an opportunity for someone to find them and give each one the chance at life they so richly deserve. If you have received this and do not want to receive anything else like it then just block my email. Because as long as there is Life there is a Will and where there is a will there is a Way. As long as I can help I will find a way to at least TRY to HELP ANIMALS HAVE A SECOND CHANCE AT LIFE....this is the motto for our volunteer group and has been used many times but it says it all.
God made the animals first and then made groups such as yours to help where man has failed. Thank You for caring and ALL EACH OF YOU ARE DOING. DO Not contact me as I am just a messenger and trying to send out information for these previous little ones that have no voice, but little tongues of love and kisses ready to give instead of seeing Rainbow Heaven to early in life. Contact the shelter or Lisa Hester.
God Bless You with Riches Beyond Compare for All your CARE and COMPASSION within each of you.
Jan
As Prayers Go Up Blessings Come Down
(Jan is from the little shelter that saved the little Blind Rottie Baby about a month ago.)
----- Original Message -----
From: Lisa Hester
To: Lisa Hester
Sent: Tuesday, January 31, 2006 9:31 PM
Subject: URGENT!! Puppies to die Mon, Feb. 6 if not rescued in GA!!
These great puppies are in a high-kill shelter in Chatsworth, GA (just NW of Atlanta and 45 min from Chattanooga). They will be destroyed this Monday (2/6) if not rescued!! PLEASE HELP them live!!
NOTE: The puppies must have a rescue lined up ASAP, but they can stay at the shelter a couple days longer if needed. Also, transport to Atlanta can be provided.
001 & 002- Puppies....These three puppies are just 6 weeks old. They are cute and cuddly! (Sorry, not great photos of these cuties!)
006,012,014 - Puppies.... This litter of cuddly border collie/lab mix puppies are just 10 weeks old. Already smart and learning fast.
1310602 024, 023, 022 - Puppies...These sweet puppies are just 6 weeks old. There are eight total. They are in need of rescue ASAP.
This gorgeous baby came from a house that didn't spay/ neuter, allowing their dogs to have 20 offspring....until now! What's worse is while these pups grew up inside a fenced yard they were never petted. Some had to be euth., while some very kind people took the others in hopes of rescuing them. However, this guy decided he likes to be loved and is doing well w/ people and other dogs. Please give this sweet guy a chance to live life the way it should be lived.
PLEASE CALL AND SAY YOU WILL HELP!!! Contact us quickly as they have only until end of day this Monday (2/6)!!
Lisa Pauline
770-441-0329 Murray County Shelter
706-695-8003
http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/GA155.html
I do hope the puppies get adopted by loving families. I also hope that Sadie finds a family. They deserve to live and to be happy.
About Sadie's person, if anyone can pass this on, tell her to check on http://www.cancer-info.com, and then click on the first column, under "Essiac". Believe me, anyone with cancer should give Essiac tea a try. Anyone who needs to cleanse his/her system, should give it a try. It is important to do some research in internet regarding this tea so that anyone interested may find out how to prepare it from scratch, or where to buy the "real stuff" already prepared, or what symptoms you may feel while taking it, etc. I know of people who have cancer or other ailments and are using this tea, with good results. Of course, it has to be used for a few months, but I understand the benefits are felt very soon, actually, in a few days.
I hope this helps Sadie's person, and some other people and animals too.
I am sure Sadie is also hoping for something that helps her person. Dogs are like that, loving and lovable.
Eric, congratulations on your blog. I am also an animal rescuer and I am very happy to "see" so many people who feel as I do and who will act accordingly.
MP
Hi LeeAnne,
I hope you will not take this the wrong way but I pulled close to 50 dogs from Roicy in a six month period just last year. You almost make them sound like just a typical shelter. I have never been to or pulled animals from Sulpher Animal Control or the Calcasieu Parish Animal services. So I can't compare them but I know Roicy. Several of the comments you made or just not true.
First for the record if one more person defends the fact that they kill so many animals because they only have 12 holding places I'm going to throw up. Their holing pen in the back is hugh. Rescue has been begging them to use that area to show off the animals. In other words reverse the way they are keeping the animals. Then the dogs and cats would have a better chance of getting out.
You mentioned the shelter lets Debbie take the pictures of not only adoptable animals but all animals. I have no idea where you got that idea but it is totally false. Onle one or two people that I know have ever been allowed in the back. This is a very private area where tons of dogs and cats are deemed unadoptable and gassed quickly. The rest are placed up for adoption. If you want to know what deems them unaboptable---not sute of all reasons but if they are 5 or 6 years old--they are unadoptable and killed never being placed for adoption. If an animal doesn't eat, maybe he's depresses he is deemed sick and killed. It is a hell hole. Debbie who I know personally is not allowed in the back to take pictures of these dogs they are killed as if they never lived.
Last year I pulled out dogs with chemical burns on their testicles and paws. The dogs were so sick, it was unbelievable. I have vet bill to prove it. The puppies were cleaned with them in the cages. They were in the cages wet and then had fans blowing on them. You can imagine how sick they got. I saw my lab get yanked several times by the neck by the idiot who enjoys killing the animals. The only reason I did not punch him out is because I knew he would kill the rest of the dogs I was going to pull. Rescuers have seen dogs heads help down by the feet of idiots who work there. One rescuer pulled out a puppy only to have it die the next morn at the vets. I am not going to discuss how the vet believes the puppy got poisined because it has to do with the shelter. There were someother thing going on that I am not able to discuss because I have been trying to get this place investigated since last year.
Believe me this is a hell hole that needs to close down. Best Friends offered them their help but Virginia Lee rejected it. This place is not an adoption shelter it is a gassing kill shelter. They want to kill as many animals as they can as quickly and quietly as they can.
I do believe that not one penny of our tax dollars should go to fund this type of place. I also belive that people who turn in their pets to places like this because they are too big or too old should never be able to adopt again. This of course is only my opinion.
I am an Animal Rescuer
>
> My job is to assist God's creatures
> I was born with the drive to fulfill their needs
> I take in helpless, unwanted, homeless creatures without planning or
> selection
> I have bought dog food with my last dime
> I have patted a mangy head with a bare hand
> I have hugged someone vicious and afraid
> I have fallen in love a thousand times
> And I have cried into the fur of a lifeless body too many times to count
> I have animal friends and friends who have animal friends
> I don't often use the word "pet"
> I notice those lost at the road side
> And my heart aches
> I will hand raise a field mouse
> And make friends with a vulture
> I know of no creature unworthy of my time
> I want to live forever if there aren't animals in Heaven
> But I believe there are
> Why would God make something so perfect and leave it behind
> Some may think we are master of the animals
> But the animals have mastered themselves
> Something people still haven't learned
> War and abuse make me hurt for the world
> But a rescue that makes the news gives me hope for mankind
> We are a quiet but determined army
> And we are making a difference every day
> There is nothing more necessary than warming an orphan
> Nothing more rewarding than saving a life
> No higher recognition than watching them thrive
> There is no greater joy than seeing a baby play
> who only days ago, was too weak to eat
> By the love of those who I've been privileged to rescue
> I have been rescued
> I know what true unconditional love really is
> for I've seen it shining in the eyes of so many
> Grateful for so little
> I am an Animal Rescuer
> My work is never done
> My home is never quiet
> My wallet is always empty
> But my heart is always full
>
> Author Unknown
>
Might anyone know of someone who is still looking for their Akita rescued from Katrina? There are still 5 Katrina dogs looking for homes at the Santa Cruz, (CA) SPCA and one of them was profiled in a newspaper article - it's an Akita. If you know anyone looking for their Akita, please have them read the news article below. Thanks.
Source: Santa Cruz Sentinel
February 6, 2006
A few four-legged Katrina survivors still need homes
By Nancy Pasternack
sentinel staff writer
Most of their kennel-mates are gone now — nearly 100 bedraggled dogs and cats brought to the Santa Cruz SPCA from Louisiana after surviving Katrina have been adopted. Even a pit bull with no eyes found a loving home last week.
The shelter on Seventh Avenue is down to its last five Katrina dogs and 10 Katrina cats.
Jeff Singson already owns one Akita, who accompanies him to work each day at Arrow Surf Shop. He's not sure his landlord would even allow him to have another. But he visited the SPCA Saturday, he said, because "I have a special place in my heart for Akitas, and I was told I should meet Magic."
Magic was the only dog brought in after Katrina that had already been neutered and partially trained, said Randy Bennett, SPCA's dog trainer.
"He just needs somebody that understands these kinds of dogs," Bennett said.
Singson and Magic liked each other instantly, and hung out together for about an hour.
His own Akita, waiting in his truck for him, can follow both voice and hand commands — a product of Singson's training skill.
They rode off together, and Magic was taken back to his kennel, at least for the time being.
Kathryn, 11, and Davey Gonzales, 12, of Boulder Creek, came in with their parents to meet some dogs, including Twiggy, another of the Katrina rescuees. Twiggy got a late start on the adoption circuit, which includes regular adopt-a-thons at Cali Feed and Pet Supply and the Cabrillo College farmer's market, because she arrived with ringworm and was sick for 45 days.
The SPCA teamed with the Doris Day Animal Foundation, headquartered in Washington, D.C., to transport about 100 rescued animals to Santa Cruz County in October. Some of those animals were then taken to shelters in neighboring counties. Most have since been adopted.
The Gonzales family's 16-year-old dog died recently, and they're considering a new companion for their 8-year-old vizsla.
The kids spoke in soft voices, and petted Twiggy in slow, careful motions. One quick romp in an outdoor playground with the kids and their dog, and Twiggy began to prance and wave her tail.
But there are other dogs the Gonzaleses want to consider, including those at the Santa Cruz Animal Services shelter in Scotts Valley. Bringing home a new animal, they said, is not a decision to rush into.
Contact Nancy Pasternack at npasternack@santacruzsentinel.com.
Information
Call the Santa Cruz SPCA at 465-5000, or visit www.santacruzspca.org. The SPCA is at 2260 7th Ave., and is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
To Anonymous Poster #1 from Anonymous Poster#2 thanks for your reply. Clarifies where you are coming from and makes me feel better.
As for the lack of local people purportedly not out helping with the animals in NOLA well a) I know of quite a few who are quietly feeding animals from their own property/trailer/driveway. b) the ones who aren't are either i) still in shock/in a daze/trying to figure out how to get their own body and soul back together with no small measure of difficulty or, ii) not even living permanently in NOLA at this time but travelled to NOLA just for the BFE with the special wish of finding their own beloved pet and then had to leave again.
Please, all, fer freakin' cryin' out loud, *judge not* unless you know the ENTIRE story.
The residents of New Orleans are survivors, they have gone thru the worst, and they are still with us.
We can all learn lessons from them. And there are alot of animals lovers out there, right now, searching for the lost pets of Katrina.
Never give up...........
To God From The Dog
February 15 2006 at 7:06 PM
No score for this post Parrothead (Premier Login Parrot-head)
Forum Owner
from IP address 65.11.203.60
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TO: GOD
FROM: THE DOG
Dear God: Why do humans smell the flowers, but seldom, if ever, smell one another?
Dear God: When we get to heaven, can we sit on your couch? Or is it still the same old story?
Dear God: Why are there cars named after the jaguar, the cougar, the mustang, the colt, the stingray, and the rabbit, but not ONE named for a dog? How often do you see a cougar riding around? We do love a nice ride! Would it be so hard to rename the "Chrysler Eagle" the " Chrysler Beagle"?
Dear God: If a dog barks his head off in the forest and no human hears him, is he still a bad dog?
Dear God: We dogs can understand human verbal instructions, hand signals, whistles, horns, clickers, beeper s, scent ID's, electromagnetic energy fields, and Frisbee flight paths. What do humans understand?
Dear God: More meatballs, less spaghetti, please.
Dear God: Are there mailmen in Heaven? If there are, will I have to apologize?
Dear God: Let me give you a list of just some of the things I must remember to be a good dog.
1. I will not eat the cats' food before they eat it or after they throw it up.
2. I will not roll on dead seagulls, fish, crabs, etc., just because I like the way they smell.
3. I will not munch on "leftovers" in the kitty litter box, although they are tasty.
4. The diaper pail is not a cookie jar.
5. The sofa is not a 'face towel'. Neither are Mom and Dad's laps.
6. The garbage collector is not stealing our stuff.
7. My head does not belong in the refrigerator.
8. I will not bite the officer' s hand when he reaches in for Mom's driver's license and registration.
9. I will not play tug-of-war with Dad's underwear when he's on the toilet.
10. Sticking my nose into someone's crotch is an unacceptable way of saying "hello".
11. I don't need to suddenly stand straight up when I'm under the coffee table.
12. I must shake the rainwater out of my fur before entering the house - not after.
13. I will not throw up in the car.
14. I will not come in from outside and immediately drag my butt.
15. I will not sit in the middle of the living room and lick my crotch when we have company.
16. The cat is not a 'squeaky toy' so when I play with him and he makes that noise, it's usually not a good thing.
And, finally, my last two questions . . .
Dear God: Why do humans only have 10 Commandments and dogs have 16?
P.S. Dear God: When I get to Heaven may I have my testicles back?
^^Re: To God from the Dog^^
Thanks for sharing.
Sometimes we all need to stop and enjoy a good laugh:)
With a priceless menagerie of a big ole goofy moose, two prissy cats, and one "Ewww... Mom, the dog just slimed me again" kitty, I can certainly relate.
Yes, pretty hard to feign innocence when one has kitty litter still stuck to his big fat nose LOL...
Good thing we love them like we do!
suzysmom:)
ps To Dana, those of us who can relate to the unrelenting love of a faithful and loyal companion, are all still hoping and praying that you will find your Tobias.
Until we all walk a mile in someone else's shoes, we should not sit in judgment of others:( Most of us who comfortably sit here on our home computers with "unlimited hours internet" have absolutely no idea the circumstances or situations which the victims of Hurricane Katrina experienced, and the continuing hardships which they still have to contend with...
I just read something about animals in boarded up project building in New orleans. Did they close them up before searching. This is not good. They are going to do a sweep of the buildings on Mon day Feb. 20. Then the buildings will be sealed for good. This is from the petfinder blog site. Also www.arneworleans.com?
So sorry, I got the address wrong;
neworleans.craiglist.org/pet/134836169.html
this has the info, also on the petfinder site.
In resonse to Dave Gurley; Dog fighting is NOT NOT legal in Louisiana.
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I saw your blog on one of my many lists, probably Kinship Circle, and wanted to say to Dana what a courageous woman she is. As a first responder in the Katrina animal rescue efforts,I can tell you I have witnessed all that Dana's video shows. Heartbreak,sadness,depression. I am sorry for the loss of your babies. They are family. I undestand that in every sense of the word. I have cried a river of tears since that day last August, almost a year ago,and I continue to cry. I cry for the human lives lost because they would not leave their pets. I cry for the pets I could not save because I got there too late.I cry for those who are still looking for their pets. I do not hold judgement on those who had to evacuate without their pets. If you were not THERE,do not pass judgement yourself. Many were forced to leave and many were made false promises that their pets would be rescued immediately. We all know now that these were promises that were not kept.....some promise, huh? I have been in N.O. East, 9th Ward,Chalmette & Arabi....Total devastation and still is, in some areas. A YEAR later.
We continue to feed those left behind, who wander the streets looking for a morsel of food.Dogs & cats who were once someones beloved companion, loved and cared for as their own children. They are confused and afraid and many now have puppies and kittens of their own, trying to survive to keep their litters alive.We continue to try and save them. The volunteer base is at a minimum now and we still need your help.
Dana, my prayers are with you and your family. You have been thru a living hell. I pray that we never have to witness such destruction again...at least not in my lifetime. But if we do, I am ready,standing by,ready to be a first responder and once again do whatever it takes to rescue those left behind.
doG Bless You All!
Lisa Roussel
Baton Rouge, LA
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