UPDATE 5/28/09: Gianna, aka GiGi, is still waiting for that special someone she can call her own. Please don't let the insulin injections keep you from considering her for adoption. She doesn't mind getting them and it's super easy giving them. She is an adorable little girl with tons of personality and lots of love for her human friends. She's not really comfortable with other dogs so she'd do best in a home with no other pets. She's quite a little lady with great manners. She walks great on a leash and is even better as a passenger in a car. She's great at getting her shots and even tolerates being dressed up for the holidays. She will make an incredible companion for someone, and deserves a home she can call her own. Please consider adopting this little girl who has been patiently waiting for her turn to go to her forever home.

UPDATE 3/27/09: Most of the time I talk about foster mom because she's the one I spend most of my time with. But the other day foster dad paid me a compliment. He said I was a 'cool' dog! And he said if he didn't already have three dogs of his own he'd love to keep me forever. Unfortunately that's not going to happen, so I'm still looking for that special family that I can call my own, preferably a family that doesn't have any other pets. I kind of like being the center of attention. I'm not too pushy about it. I just flop over on my back when I feel like it's time for a belly rub. Foster dad says I look silly with all four legs sticking straight up in the air like I have rigor mortis or something. It's just one of the goofy things I like to do. I have lots of quirky things I like to do that make my foster parents giggle. Like foster dad says -I'm a 'cool' dog!

UPDATE 2/12/09: I wanted to tell everyone that I'm really getting the hang of living with my four-legged housemates. I've learned to stay calm around them when there's a lot of commotion, and then foster mom tells me what a good girl I've been. That makes me so proud of myself I just smile and hold my head up high, and prance around with my tail wagging. Sometimes I have to agree with her verbally, but she thinks it's cute when I do that. I'm always so excited when foster mom comes home from work. I grab one of my fuzzy toys and I run around the kitchen, skidding on the linoleum tile shaking it to death. Then we all run outside for a potty break, and then I make sure that my fuzzy toy is good and dead before we go back into the house. I'm real good at begging for treats too. You should see me when I'm at the vets office. All the other people giggle and say how cute I am when I sit up and beg for foster mom. I know I'm too cute to resist 'cause foster mom tells me that all the time. I can be just as cute for my forever family too. I just need you to fill out the adoption application so you can see for yourself. I'll be waiting.

UPDATE 1/14/09: Well, it seems as though my holiday wishes didn't come true, but I'm not giving up. I know that special person is out there. That special person who is looking for a four legged partner. A partner that gives unconditional love, and is always there for them. That's me. I'm a very loyal and dedicated Cairn terrier. All I want is to please everyone and have them like me. Give me a few belly rubs and I'll give you a lot of love back. In the form of kisses of course. That's my specialty. Oh, and I'm really good at making people laugh. I'm not sure why, but I guess some of the goofy things I do are funny. So if you're looking for a goofy, fun-loving loyal partner, I'm your girl. I'll be waiting to hear from you.

UPDATE 12/13/08: Happy Holidays everyone! Well, I couldn't decide if I looked better in my reindeer hat or my elf hat so I decided to have my picture taken in both. Maybe you can decide which one looks cuter on me. I'm hoping that Santa will be able to fulfill my Christmas wish. I'm hoping he can find me that forever home I've so patiently been waiting for. I know they're out there, they just haven't found me yet. Wish me luck! Don't forget, special needs dogs aren't any different than other dogs. We have so much love to give to our very own forever family! All we need is love and a warm bed in return! Please consider taking me home for the holidays. I’m waiting just for you.

UPDATE 11/09: Okay, here 's the scoop. Foster Mom has been writing these nice updates about how wonderful I am (well, most of the time), and I still haven't found my forever home yet. I wonder if it's because I don't look like a typical Cairn, even though I certainly act like one. Is it because I'm a bit on the older side? I still act like a youngster, though. Ask my housemates. I'm always the dog in the lead on our walks, with the younger kids tagging along behind me. Is it because I have diabetes? That's not a problem for me. Just two quickie injections a day and I'm good to go. Is it because I'm uncomfortable with other dogs? I can work on that issue. I've certainly learned to get along with my three four-legged housemates, and two of them are Cairns!
But seriously, I am a very sweet girl and I just adore people. Not one person who has met me hasn't fallen in love with me. I'm good at wrapping humans around my finger - I mean paw. I'll do anything you ask for a treat. I'm most certainly a lady in the house and never have accidents. I love to hang around with my human friends and let them rub my belly. And if they want to lay on the floor, I'm happy to clean their ears for them, if they like. There's a lot of give and take in my relationships. I have a lot of love to give if you would take a moment to meet me. Please give me a chance to prove myself. You won't regret it. It's really easy to fill out that paperwork and give me my forever home. I'll be waiting.

UPDATE 10/03: GiGi's mothering instincts are appearing lately. She loves to clean the ears and face of one of her housemates - a small male Dachshund. He doesn't seem to mind the attention at all. She's very relaxed with her housemates, but she still loves to steal their toys from them when we're all playing together.

She just loves going for short walks and manages to keep up a brisk pace. She's very light on her feet, almost like a ballerina - so cute to watch! She's still doing well with her insulin injections. As long as there's food in the picture, nothing else matters to her. She's a very special little girl and would love to find her own 'someone special'. She's very loving and licks foster mom's ears and face whenever she gets a chance. Gigi is always smiling and is very eager to please us. She loves when company comes to visit and is always a big hit with everyone and receives compliments on her lovely coloring. She is a pretty dog with a very sweet face. She is a bit camera shy so it's hard to get a good picture of her precious face. But we've gotten a few, so click on the link to see what a darling girl Miss GiGi is!: tinyurl.com/3u5o5m . Please don't let her diabetes keep you from considering Gianna. She doesn't think of herself as a dog with special needs and neither should you. Please find it in your heart to fill out that adoption application and take GiGi home to love!

UPDATE 9/1: GiGi is still patiently awaiting that special family who wants to make her a part of their forever home. She has been especially well behaved with her house mates. It's amazing how much more relaxed she is around them. It seems to have something to do with her diabetic condition. Now that her diabetes is under control, and she's feeling good, she is such a happy, relaxed girl. She smiles from ear to ear and has a positive energy about her. She's a dog with a lot of personality, and is so cute and funny to be around. Maintaining a healthy diet and her twice daily insulin shots are such a small price to pay for all her charms! We really wish that someone out there could find a place in their heart and their home for her. She truly is deserving of a family to call her very own. Could that special someone be you? GiGi is ready for those adoption papers - so fill them out and send them in!

UPDATE 7/30: Well GiGi was the hit of the party. We had house guests for 7 days, and they all absolutely fell in love with her. She bonded with my Dad immediately, and was always lying at his feet or with her head on his lap so he could give her lots of belly rubs. She was great with my niece, who is 12, and my nephew, who is 16. They thought she was the cutest, funniest dog, and loved giving her lots of affection. Everyone felt that if people could see GiGi in person they would fall in love with her and she'd finally get that forever home she so deserves. My Dad was surprised at how quick and easy her injections are. He couldn't believe it took no more than 3 seconds and she didn't mind in the least. She really is a good girl and very well behaved. Very loving, and just wants to please everyone she meets. She loves it when company comes over and is very sweet to everyone. She also had the opportunity to come to a friend's house with me, who doesn't own any pets, and she was just so charming and well behaved. She laid at our feet while we chatted and had lunch. She really impressed my friend who isn't really a dog lover. We're still waiting for that special someone to fall in love with our special little girl, the same way we have. GiGi is patiently waiting for a phone call saying there's a special someone who wants to take her home and make her a part of their family.

UPDATE 6/23: GiGi is still patiently waiting for her forever family to find her. She told me she'd like someone who can spend more one-on-one time with her (she doesn't like sharing foster mom with her house mates; someone who likes to go for walks in the sunshine; someone who will take her for rides in the car; and someone who gives good belly rubs and doesn't mind sloppy kisses once in a while. She loves to lay at her companion's feet when they're watching TV, and likes to guard the bathroom while they're taking a shower. She's a good watch dog, but adores when company comes to visit (as long as they leave their four legged kids at home). She's a very happy dog with a great personality. She's very sweet, but very spunky as well. She's a great companion and just needs someone who will take a few minutes to make sure she eats a healthy diet to regulate her diabetes, and give her two insulin injections a day (which are really easy to do). Please make GiGi even happier by filling out an adoption application to be that forever family she's so patiently waiting for.

UPDATE 5/28: GiGi doesn't know how proud her foster mom is, of the way she's overcome obstacles since she came into foster care. Foster mom would like to share some of them with you. GiGi has learned to be tolerant of her house mates and actually enjoy their company; she recently accepted another foster into our home with very little resistance. She has accepted her daily insulin injections for her diabetes with no complaints. She developed cataracts due to her diabetes which over time affected her ability to see. Being the trooper that she is, she still managed to go potty outside even when she couldn't see. She went through cataract surgery which thankfully, has restored her vision. She accepts her post-op eye drops several times a day, without any trouble at all. She has been through a hurricane which made her fearful of thunderstorms and rain. But we can proudly say is no longer afraid to go out in the rain to potty, and doesn't appear to be bothered by the sound of thunder any longer. She really is a determined little girl with a lot of courage and love for life. She deserves someone special who can appreciate all that she has to offer. She's a wonderful companion and has so much love to give. Isn't there someone out there that who has a big enough heart to adopt our little girl and love her unconditionally, as we do?

UPDATE 4/29: Hey y'all! Guess where I was? I went to a Cairn Rescue Annual Party and met about 30 other Cairn dogs just like me! It was awesome, and I handled it like a pro.

I'm still waiting for that special someone to find and adopt me! I know I have some special needs, but if you can feed me breakfast and dinner at the same time every day, all you need to do is give me one little injection along with my meals and I'm ready to go, and I don't mind my shots at all. So if there's someone out there that has a soft heart for a sweetie like me, I'm ready to go home with you. I promise, I'll be on my best behavior, and you will see for yourself - I'm quite a special little girl.

UPDATE 3/12/08: I've had my cataract surgery and now I can see! It's amazing how much younger I feel now that I have my vision back. The doctor says I'm doing a great job recuperating. I have a little blurriness with my up close vision, but my distance is just great. I feel more at ease with my four legged house mates now and don't feel the need to try intimidating them anymore.

UPDATE 02/05: GiGi came to us with cataracts and they have progressed to the point where she is considered legally blind. GiGi had a visit with an eye specialist who was very optimistic about how well she would respond to cataract surgery. None of this gets her down though. Her spirit is all Cairn.

UPDATE 01/23/2008: I love walks, riding in the car, playing with squeaky toys, and lots and lots of belly rubs. I love people and get very excited when company stops by.

Foster Mom: Gianna definitely looks leaner than when she first came to our home. I like all the red that's showing up in her fur as it grows in and she just loves it when I brush her. She doesn't mind getting bathed.

UPDATE 10/16/2007: Well, it's been almost two months since I came to live with my foster family, and I'm really settling in and feeling like a part of the "pack." I know I told y'all I was from the South, but did I mention I was rescued from a hurricane? It's made me a little apprehensive of thunderstorms.

I've lost some weight over the past few weeks and look just fabulous. My insulin dosage has finally been regulated and I feel great! I'm always the leader of the pack when foster Mom takes me and my two house mates for a walk. I'm still not very comfortable when we meet unfamiliar dogs, though. I just get kind of anxious and need to tell them to stay away.

UPDATE 09/18: Hey! Guess what?! I've been playing with toys! Foster Mom throws a ball; I always catch it and then I give that darn thing a good chew. Sometimes I'm so quiet she has to check to make sure I'm in the room. They love me at the vet's office because I'm so easygoing and cooperative. Everyone always tells me how cute I am.

Foster Mom: Every day we have these little chats, and Gianna makes the cutest gestures when we're having them. She makes great eye contact and shows a lot of self-confidence. She'd do best in a home without small children, and she does appear to be more comfortable as an only dog.

09/04/2007: My name is Gianna and I'm a sweet Southern girl. My former owner couldn't keep me anymore, so they brought me to Col. Potter to find a new forever home. I'm spayed, heartworm negative, and up-to-date on all my vaccinations. I'm housebroken, very well-mannered, and basically a quiet, indoor kind of girl. Foster Mom says I'm very ladylike. At first, I wasn't sure if I would like sharing my foster home with other four-legged house mates, but I've decided I like having step-brothers to wrestle with - 'cause I always win!
I also adore going for walks and I'm an excellent traveler.

I was recently diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus. Foster Mom started me on insulin injections twice a day, and along with a healthy diet, I'm feeling better already.

04/26/2009: Saiorse is a very quiet and loving little girl. She puts one paw gingerly on my leg, and then the other, looks up at me with such love, and wags the cutest little tail! She is learning to trust and has discovered that face and ear rubs are definitely her thing! My going anywhere in the house alone (including the bathroom) is a thing of the past! She sleeps in her kennel but takes naps on the bed with me. She is learning to play and it is truly a joy to watch. Saiorse has been with us for 8 days and has not had even one accident in the house (very impressive)! What a love!

UPDATE 5/3/09: Well, Spring is finally coming to the mountains of Colorado! I get to roll in the new grass and smell the funny little flowers. I am glad my nose works well because I have little "old man eyes" as foster mom calls them - I don't see too well anymore - but that doesn't matter. I get along well with the other dogs when we are outside, and I can go for walks just like they do. I enjoy laying in the sun on the deck upside down sunning my tummy. I am just waiting around till my real family finds me. Anybody out there looking for a goofy guy with a great sense of humor? I make foster mom laugh at me and call me "goober!" Look me up and put your application in for me, cause I'm totally worth it!

01/22/2009: "Sweet older gentleman seeks permanent companion for long walks, movie nights, snuggles on the couch, light games of fetch and regular meals followed by snacks. His perfect companion would be devoted to a quiet life of love and leisure."

At 9 yrs this boy is just looking for the easy life. He's a nice 15 lbs of wheaten red head, had all his shots and he's heartworm negative. If this sounds good then Crete is your guy.

UPDATE 5/3/09: "Guess what, everybody! Foster mom says I am ready to go to a forever home. I have worked hard at learning to trust and am ready to continue my education with my forever home." Oswego is a very active 3-yr-old big boy Cairn. After much work on his part, (and a lot of long runs with his 2-legged sister) he is learning that not everyone will hurt him and he can be picked up and moved around without being hurt. Note: Oswego is very good running alongside his person on roller blades. He is a goofball with a low attention span because he is so excited over everything he encounters. Oswego is up to date on everything and ready to go. If you are up for a very active boy this is your guy. Get your application in!

01/23/2009: Oswego is a big wheaten boy. A strong, sturdy 3 year old who is neutered and up to date on all of his shots. He is heartworm negative and working on being ready for his forever home. Oswego walks well on his leash, is crate trained and working on housetraining (we have an occasional marking booboo) but overall is learning some manners. He has a few more things to work out and then will be available. Keep an eye out for this big, playful fellow. He will be worth the wait!

UPDATE 5/26/09: Hi again! I'm just checking in to tell you how things are going. I think you'll be proud of the new me! I am wagging my tail non-stop, enjoying toys (who knew what they were!) and my Foster Mom is teaching me that doggie massages are really cool! Today I was a good girl in the bath and I like curling up w/ Mom to get my new blonde coat brushed. I'm working on that outdoors thing, but Foster Mom says I'm a fledgling getting ready to leave the nest, then she cries a little. If you wanna teach me to fly, just let Colonel Potter know, and send in your application!

05/03/2009: Hi everyone. My foster Mom says it's finally time to introduce myself! My new name is Cheryl (tho' Mom calls me Little Miss Plum). Even though I just turned 4 last week, I don't know much about the world so am having to catch up. At first, I was so shy and scared of every little noise I didn't even want to come out of my crate, but I'm getting braver every day! And every day, things are changing for the better in my life - my blonde fur is growing in and I now have curves! I am learning about balls and toys, belly rubs, good food, and will even go to the door with my brothers and sisters to greet Mom or bark at the cat. Mom says I'm a "work in progress", and my biggest fear is being outdoors and going through doorways. I'm trying very, very hard to be brave though. Foster Mom says Colonel Potter is going to look everywhere for a very, very special Forever Mom or Dad who will take time with me, love me and help me be the Cairn Princess I deserve to be!

UPDATE 6/15/09: Colbert is just the sweetest little boy. He loves human contact and will fall asleep by your side if you massage him around his shoulders. If you looked up the characteristics of a Cairn terrier it would describe Colbert to a "T". I ADORE this little guy! I took Colbert with me on a trip to North Carolina and everyone just fell in love with him. His good looks get your attention but it is his personality that really wins you over. When I take him out on walks he always has to stop and watch people that are walking around a track. One time his watching earned him some petting; a young man could not resist Colbert watching him, and felt that he just needed some petting. Colbert was ecstatic about the attention.

Colbert is very alert to things going on around him and will want to explore. He always has to check out all drainage ditches or big holes. He'll go up to the edge, lean over and check out what's in the hole. He has gotten better on the leash when he sees other dogs, but still not perfect as he wants to pull, and on rarer occasions he will bark. He did have two good meetings with other male dogs while on a walk. One encounter was with a fellow neighborhood dog walker and her bigger male dog. Colbert and the dog greeted by sniffing noses and the bigger male showed signs of play. Colbert did not pick up on that but he did stay in a "friendly" posture and the visit was a bit longer than most he has. He got big praise from me!

Colbert is a young dog that is ready for training, and he has done very well with the training he gets from me. He'll need regular exercise. Do not miss out on this little guy - he will steal your heart. Put in your application for his adoption now!

UPDATE 4/28/09: I’m just going to come right out and tell you about Colbert; but be ready, I may use a four-letter word! I absolutely LOVE this dog. Really, I adore this little guy. He may not understand another dog’s body language or communication all the time but he has every bit of the terrier instinct in him. He is a joy to watch in action when he has discovered something of interest. I have to wonder if he is showing off his hunting pose or preparing for Crufts. He is still a young, rambunctious dog that requires exercise but he also has his calm times where he loves getting little rubdowns and falling asleep right next to you. He is a well-behaved guy when in the presence of people after initial wiggly-squiggly greetings. When in isolation he gets bored and that is when he will search and destroy anything of interest in his reach. I can now let him out with my female, but it did take corrective action from me to let him know not to push his boundary with her. He just didn’t understand what my female was telling him. He must be separated from my male; Colbert is just an agitator in the house around my male. Interested in Colbert? He will need to be walked to get stimulation; same backyard smells everyday will get boring. He has proven to me he is very trainable. I strongly recommend he attend leash/obedience training so he does not overreact when he sees other dogs on a walk. He is good on the leash but when other dogs are present he forgets about the handler and wants to do his own thing. As I stated already he is every bit the terrier so I believe he will enjoy any outdoor adventures; but always on a leash. I believe he could be a man’s dog or momma’s boy. Colbert thrives on human interaction; he will want to be included in family functions. At this age, he is not a couch dog. The most important thing to know about Colbert is that he wants your love. He is a wonderful dog looking for his forever home where he can give his love. Oh yeah – he is incredibly cute, too!

UPDATE 04/19/09: Colbert is very people friendly and will happily show his belly for you to rub. He is confident, curious, fearless and full of energy. Sounds just like a Cairn! He loves meeting people and tends to get a bit exuberant at first meeting by trying to get in quite a few kisses. He still is a bit mouthy, (little nips of excitement), and I am working with him to understand no teeth on people.

He has proven without a doubt that he does not particularly care for other male dogs around his things. I have to separate him from my male dog and he gets limited free time around my female dog. From my observations of Colbert; he seems to not understand other dog's signals. When he receives a corrective signal from my female he tends to go directly to an offensive posture. He obviously never had an opportunity to learn "dog language" as a puppy. Although Colbert is good on the leash he now wants to be the "tough guy" when he sees other dogs on a walk. I'll be working on desensitizing him when other dogs are near. He has done well so far on his training. We've been working on sit, wait, look and just started work on stay. He is a smart little fella and is fully capable of learning.

This little 14 pound King Kong is ready to be adopted. Colbert will be best in a home where he will be the only dog. Right now he is not mature enough to understand how to share his home. He requires ample exercise to use up all his extra energy. If left alone for long periods of time he will find something of cardboard, paper or wood to destroy. However, when with the family he has not wandered off to find something to chew. He loves hanging around people and playing with the toys that are offered.

04/05/2009: Please welcome Colbert, an owner surrender. He is up to date on all his vaccinations and is heartworm negative. He arrived at his foster home on April 4th, and so far he has been a typical 15 month old Cairn; curious, playful and a bit out of control. We will be working on his 'out of control' and get some order back in his life, so he can feel more at ease and secure. Check back in two weeks and I will give you a full report on his progress. I have a feeling he is going to get some good remarks!

06/09/2009: Menolly was found as a stray and brought to a shelter, then released to Col. Potter. She has been a wonderful little girl that constantly makes you smile, is always so happy, and is always on the go. Menolly loves her toys and doesn't mind sharing them with the other dogs. She sleeps quietly in her crate, is also house trained, walks well on a leash, and comes when called. What more could anyone want? Menolly is a wonderful dog and deserves a forever home where she can make you as happy as she is!

UPDATE 06/22/09: Hi everyone, this is Nitro's Foster Mom just checking in with you all. I just want to stress one more time how loving Nitro is. We truly believe that most of his issues can be resolved by having a stable home and laid back type of lifestyle. He is good with children but would do best in a home where there is not a great deal of excess energy and excitement on a continuous basis. I think he lacks self-confidence from being moved around so much in his lifetime.

Nitro does the sweetest things and only wants to cuddle or play fetch most of the time. When I don't pay attention to him for a long period of time he comes and sits on my feet to let me know he is there! He also enjoys playing with other dogs. He would do great with a female friend but gets along fine with my male too. He had an issue at the beginning which they resolved among themselves after a couple of weeks.

Nitro is very physically fit for a guy his age. He loves to go for walks and behaves excellent. Overall he loves other dogs and likes to play with them. He does tend to be a bit over protective when someone rings the doorbell. We are still working on this but he is slowly getting better. Overall, he just needs someone who is willing to give him a calm stable home, lots of love, daily exercise and the willingness to continue to work with him on his issues. Nitro has the kind of personality that makes you fall in love with him! He also gives quite a few daily laughs as well. Please give this guy a chance to show you just how special he really is!

UPDATE 6/5/09: Hello, anyone out there? It's Nitro here! Why haven't you called or e-mailed me? Maybe I forgot to tell you I am looking for a friend who needs a good buddy like me. Yes, I'm talking about a long term relationship here. None of those one night stands for me! I am settling down some now and am ready for you to take me home. I really just want a permanent home to call mine for the rest of my days, and I'm not planning on leaving this world any time soon so why not take me home with you?

I'm low maintenance and don't require any of that expensive fine dining, just some healthy kibbles a couple times a day. No siree, no cooking required here! I would do well with a fenced yard to play in. I like to chase those little chameleons here in Florida but they climb that darned fence so fast they just leave me in the dust. Anyway, Foster Mom says I'm so funny to watch play. I also love to play fetch with my toy Mr. Frogger. He only has three legs now but I swear I didn't do it! It was that foster dog before me. When my foster parents get tired of throwing it for me - I throw it for myself. Up in the air, across the room, whereever it lands. Then all over again! A guy's gotta do, what a guy's gotta do to entertain himself! And I don't require much attention either. I am just as happy sitting with you and doing nothing. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy a nice long walk a couple times a day. And I'm not a bad looking guy either. Foster Mom says I am one of the most beautiful Cairns she has ever seen! I have thick, beautiful fur and the most gorgeous deep brown eyes. I'm not fat mind you, I'm just a big guy. She says I have a big heart too. I'm the most faithful friend she's ever had! I can be yours just for the asking! So don't forget to e-mail me or pick up the phone 'cause I would hate for you to lose out! Love ya, mean it! Later.

UPDATE 4/26/09: Hi sports fans! Well, I have made it through Spring Break and am gearing up for boating weather. Foster Mom says it's time to take me fishing! Maybe she will get some snapshots of me on the boat! We will be fishing the flats here in Florida and she said Foster Dad will pull up to the riverbank to anchor, then me and my Foster Cousin can swim. Oh, how I love summer! Now, as for my progress: What I need is a person(s) who is stronger willed than myself. I have some anxiety that I need to work through when I am out on walks and pass other dogs that bark at me. I tend to go a little crazy. Sometimes I do this when cars pass but not as much as I used to. I love other dogs, just not when they bark and growl at me. I am happy to report my food aggression is non-existent now. Foster Mom has won the battle and I now wait until I am told to eat. I still have an issue with people coming to the door. Foster Mom is working with me on that so I'll let you know how I progress. I still bark at too many sounds but I am getting better with that also. One thing at a time people! She says I need a really terrier knowledgeable person who is not afraid to keep me in line. I am still a work in progress but please don't forget that I have so many good qualities. I am a 'people-dog' and love everyone who comes through our door. Just letting them through the door is the hard part for me. I have a nice energy level and don't require a lot of attention. I love to be a sofa-buddy and really like watching The Dog Whisperer. Foster Mom says my head cocks back and forth to the side when I hear the dogs on this show. I love walking and am doing great jogging alongside the bicycle with her. I am a mellow guy for the most part. It's just that when I get worked up I can be loud with my barking. I am not a good candidate for a family with children because I tend to get aggressive if I am accidentally stepped on or hurt in any way. I am a good dog and would love to be your life long companion. If you will just give me a chance, I think we can make each other very happy together. I just want a home with someone who will be dedicated to helping me work through my issues. I need someone who is not a quitter. I promise in return to be your faithful and loving friend for all my remaining days with you! Foster Mom says I am incredibly smart and, yes - this middle aged guy CAN learn new tricks!

UPDATE 3/15/09: Hi sports fans! Even though I didn't win the Daytona 500 a few weeks ago I made it through Daytona Bike Week like a breeze. Foster Dad couldn't figure out a way to take me on the Harley but we did see a biker towing his dog, doghouse and all, behind his Harley. Not sure I'm ready for that but it sure was fun to see. Now I'm getting geared up for spring break. Foster Mom plans to take me to Doggie Beach to hang with the other doggie spring breakers. I love water so I can't wait to get in there and get my paws wet. Maybe I could even learn to hang 16? Well maybe not, but I will send you a picture of me on the beach playing in the waves real soon. Foster Mom says I'm a lot of fun for a middle aged guy. She thinks I'm one cool dude and that I've still got my groove on. I'm no longer food aggressive and have learned to wait until I'm told to eat. I've learned to run alongside the bike better than ever and am getting better about not barking at cars when they pass. And I rarely bark at the other dogs in the 'hood anymore. Foster Mom says I am progressing nicely. I still have my quirks and would probably be better off in a family who has time to continue working with me and has no young children. She says I just need someone who is consistent in reminding me that I am not the one in charge. I do have an issue with people coming to the door. Foster Mom thinks I am trying too hard to protect her Dad but they are working on that issue. She'll give you an update on my progress in the next report. She says I'm not barking at stuff as much as I used to so that has made us all happier. She thinks I am gaining more self-confidence. I think so too! Well, gotta run - can't let the golf cart leave without me!

UPDATE 2/16/09: Hi Race Fans! It's Nitro again. I just wanted to bring you up to speed on my progress since my last update. I made it through the Daytona 500 this weekend and still have energy to burn. My foster parents have been working with me on my behavior issues since I arrived. Foster mom says I have improved a lot on my food aggression. I just had to learn who's the boss here. I thought everything should be on my terms when I first came here, but now I know that I have to wait to eat until I have permission. And foster mom says she's so happy with my progress! She knows I don't mean any harm, that I'm a just a big guy and I'm impatient to eat because I get so hungry! I do still have to wear a belly band when foster mom is gone because I try to mark in the house. It doesn't help that I have competition in the form of another guy just like me. I have learned to run beside my foster mom when she rides her bike. I love to go around the neighborhood with her. Sometimes I go a little crazy when a car passes us but she says I'm getting better about that, too. I like to bark at all the other dogs on our walks but I get along pretty good with them once we meet. Anyway, she wants you to know I'm still a work in progress but I'm getting better every day. I need someone who will love me enough to work with me. I really want to do the right things, I just need to be taught what the right things are. Foster mom and dad say I am the sweetest dog they have ever been around and will make someone a very special friend. I have just the right amount of energy to be active with you or just cuddle with you, so please put me on your short list!

01/29/2009: Hi everyone! My name is Nitro because my foster mom says I'm dynamite! I arrived just in time for the Daytona 500. I'm a not-so-young guy, maybe about Mark Martin's age, that would be 9 years old in doggie years, but, like Mark, I'm not ready to retire just yet. I'm still full of p*** ‘n vinegar. Foster Mom says I still 'got what it takes to git 'r done. She says I run around the back yard track more like Jeff Gordon than a 9 year old Cairn. When I'm finished I like to head for the pits and that's where I take a break and sit with my dad and watch TV. I'll sit there as long as he lets me - I love to snuggle. I don't mind watching the race from the grandstands anyway 'cause the view is great from up here! Foster Mom says to look for my new picture coming soon. It's me on my Jeff Gordon golf cart. You don't want to miss it!

Hi race fans! Foster Mom here - just wanted to let you know that Nitro has some wonderful qualities but is still a work in progress. Most of his traits are good but he does have some issues we are working on. He barks way too much at way too many things and he's also too impatient for his food. He can get too cranky if not given it on his terms. We are working on these issues and will keep you posted. On the upside, he is the sweetest, most lovable dog I have ever had the opportunity to care for and will make a wonderful pet and companion. We'll keep you posted on his progress!

07/01/2009: Hello World! A very nice person donated my name: Schmaltz, but my foster Mom calls me "Binky-Binky-Boo", because I bounce around a lot. Like many others, I spent my childhood and then some more years in a breeding facility, so I don't know much about the real world. But I'm learning more every day, and now I'm downright brave about things like human voices coming out of that TV box, lawn mowers, planes, and strangers; but the outdoors is still my nemesis! Foster Mom says I'm about the most beautiful girl she's ever laid eyes on. I'm petite, my coat is a very fine cream color and I have HUGE brown eyes. Foster Mom says I may not be quite ready for a forever home, but if a special person came along who would understand that I needed some special TLC well, world, bring it on!

06/13/2009: Charleigh O'Doyle is a healthy, happy and beautiful little lepreCairn who came into rescue through no fault of his own. He once had a family who loved him very much, but sadly lost his home as a result of the poor economy. He is a friendly little guy who even knows a few tricks - just ask him to roll over. He enjoys taking long walks with foster dad every morning and has a brisk and purposeful stride. He is playful and energetic with the resident dogs, and adores the little human grandchild. He has good manners, is perfectly potty trained, and sleeps quietly on his own little pillow at night. The only thing he lacks is a home of his own. Get your application in quickly because he won't last long. Make Charleigh the pot-o-gold at the end of your rainbow!

05/28/2009: Please welcome Winston Churchill. A young, sweet, playful boy who needs a home with at least one canine playmate. Winston turns one year-old next week and is up to date on all of his vaccinations! He is a fun guy who LOVES to run and play with his canine friends. He isn’t your typical puppy though - he never gets in trouble! He is mature enough to play by himself and loves to curl up on his bed with a good chew toy. As soon as he is done resting, he is ready to run! Winston likes to play outside and often thinks he is a pointer dog. He’ll sit and stare in the direction of a busy squirrel, patiently waiting with his head held high. He is doing well on the leash but he will startle at a loud noise. He's not a huge fan of riding in the car; he attempts to escape the car when a door is open - whether he is being placed in the car or has arrived at the destination. Besides his attempts to exit the car at any 'open door' opportunity, he really rides well, quiet and still for the most part. Winston is still working on housebreaking. He knows where he is supposed to go, but occasionally has accidents, especially in new environments.

This is a very loving boy and if he has had his fill of exercise, he will sprawl out across your lap and take in a TV show or a good book. If he hasn’t had his fill of playtime, he is too distracted and energized and can take a little while to relax. Winston loves to scratch his back on the carpet or grass and will wiggle a few feet, flopping from side to side. He loves belly rubs and freely gives kisses. He is a quiet fellow and has to be playing pretty hard before you’ll hear him bark or do his little “howl” noise. He lays nicely in his crate for naps, bedtime, and car rides. Winston loves a good toy but has a lot more fun if he has a buddy to share it with. He has been lucky in his foster home to have lots of friends around and seemed quite depressed the one day that he had to hang out by himself without his buddies, so another doggie companion would be best for him. Overall, he is a happy guy who is gentle and loving. Could you be his forever family? Watch a video of Winston Churchill and friends: http://tinyurl.com/mvk2tc

UPDATE 6/10/09: Clare just doesn't have a mean bone in her body - she is the sweetest girl! She puts up with her pesty foster brother Casey with ease. We noticed that she seems more playful with the larger dogs we meet on our travels and she is much more friendly to people, too. Clare is a very smart one, learning from the Queen (my Maggie), that when the lid of the treat jar sounds you better come running or you might miss out! She can also give you a "high five" and has mastered the dog door with no problems If you are looking for a great little companion, loyal and true, Clare is certainly the Cairn for you!

05/18/2009: Clare has settled in nicely in her foster home, and she is a very easy-going gal. In her previous life, she lived in a commercial breeding facility and now she is ready to be a pampered princess. Clare loves to be loved and she comes up to you with her front paw raised which signals that she wants to be petted. It is very endearing! Clare really looks forward to going for her daily walks and she is friendly with everyone we see. She has a beautiful blond coat and soulful eyes. Now she is just waiting for her forever home - to find her happily ever after!

05/26/2009: Please meet Jojo, a 14-month-old high energy male Cairn puppy. He is full of spunk and ready to have his own family. He loves toys, running in the back yard, and barking at everything that moves. Jojo is learning the things that Cairns need to know - he will sit for a treat and lick your face off. This little one is looking for a home with a fenced yard and someone who likes to take walks.

UPDATE 6/9/09: Pinta has adjusted very well to his new life. He enjoys going for walks and meeting other dogs and people. Now that the weather is nice it takes him a little longer to come in from the yard because he enjoys being outdoors so much. His tear production is very high as long as he gets his drops in the morning and evening. Pinta still needs to wear a belly band since he's still in competition with my other male, but he gets along with every dog here - both male and female. He has no aggression toward any of them, and is fed in the kitchen with everyone else. He's a little gentleman just waiting for his forever home!

UPDATE 5/5/09: Pinta is enjoying the warm weather and grazing on the grass. He is doing very well walking on a leash especially when I bring along another Cairn. His housebreaking is excellent. I walk him by the river and he gets a puzzled look on his face when he sees the geese. As if he is trying to figure out what sort of animal they are. This is a quiet boy who really enjoys taking naps on his cushion. He sleeps quietly in his crate all night and keeps it dry. Toys don't really interest him. He'd rather be wrestling with one of my female Cairns. If anyone is looking for a quiet non-aggressive little guy then Pinta's the one for you.

UPDATE 3/31/09: Pinta is a very happy boy even though he is still waiting for his forever home. He eats with 4 other members of my pack and has learned to wait for his bowl instead of sticking his nose in someone else's. He's adapted very well to the sound of children playing next door - no fear or barking. I brought him to Pet Pals and he always seems amazed at the size of the owner's black Lab, and if the Lab is laying down Pinta always gives him a hello sniff. His house breaking is coming along very well. This little boy is ready for his permanent home!

UPDATE 2/19/09: Animal Eye Consultants told me they can't believe Pinta is the same dog, and stated, "There is a marked clearing of the corneas". His tear production is normal when given his eye drops, and this takes only 5-10 seconds. It's a pleasure for me since this has helped him so much. I have never noticed a problem with his vision though. If a piece of food hits the floor, he grabs it! He's put on 3 pounds so his weight is about where it should be, and his coat is looking better all the time with a good diet. His housebreaking is excellent. If I can get him to sit still for a minute, then I'll be posting some new pictures. Pinta has always followed me from room to room, but lately he has started sitting next to me a lot, waiting to be petted. He's not demanding at all, and just a pleasure to have around. This little boy would be a great addition to anyone's pack!

UPDATE 1/13/09: Every morning, when it's time to get up, I know Pinta's tail is wagging because I hear it hitting the side of his crate. When I let him out, he does a little prance with his tail wagging, then everyone goes out to potty. He comes back in the house when I call him, but it might take 3 or 4 times because this life of freedom is still new and exciting. When we go to Petco he gets lots of smiles, and people comment on how happy he is. I can leave him loose in the house and go shopping without any fear of him making a mess. He brings a smile to my face all the time when I see how happy he is. It will be hard to let this little boy go, but after the years he spent in a breeding facility he is looking forward to a forever home where he can spread his happiness to others.

UPDATE 12/16/08: Pinta has all the best spots in the house figured out, the couch, the bed or laying on a cushion with my other Cairns. He has started to wrestle with my other Cairns also. Pinta is a pro going up and down stairs, all seven of them. When I call my pack into the house he follows right along. Sudden moves still startle him but he gets over it immediately. Housebreaking is going very well. I've seen just one accident in the last week. He still wears a belly band but is beginning to mark less. He is quiet in his crate and keeps it clean and dry. He enjoys moving toys to another room then one of my females brings them back to the couch. When I’m gone for awhile he is there with the rest of the pack barking a greeting when I return. Pinta is learning to live in a real home. He is a good little fellow who will make a great addition to your home. He is looking forward to having his very own forever home. Fill in that application quickly!

11/11/2008: Pinta is a sweet boy who spent his life in a breeding facility. He's been to the vet for his shots and was also neutered. He is currently receiving drops for dry eyes, and since he went a very long time without treatment the vet said it's like Pinta is looking through dark sunglasses. He is a little underweight and needs to gain a few pounds. He sleeps quietly in his crate, and I am working on house breaking. Pinta will walk on a leash but wants to go in his own direction, probably because everything is so new to him and he is curious, although he is afraid of some noises. He gets along well with my resident male and three resident females. All in all Pinta is a nice Cairn that is still getting used to his freedom. He will be a wonderful addition to someone's home. Will you be the one to help him explore his exciting new world?

UPDATE 5/10/09: Dublin is very happy to see the change in the weather. No ice and no snow means long walks checking out the scenery and looking for birds! Yep, Dublin is a bird dog. Other dogs may occupy their time with squirrels, Dublin is a bird watcher and someday hopes to catch one in flight. This boy is a very smart Cairn who knows lots of tricks - sit, shake, up, come, down, stay; he's at his best when he is performing. He will do a sit/stay in the backyard, holding that position while you walk away. I have been as far away as 30 feet and Dublin will still be watching for the command to come. He's a great dog who needs someone who appreciates the true terrier spirit and likes walking. Dublin also enjoys quiet nights of television and lounging. He's a very special Cairn who enjoys food and treats too!

UPDATE 2/22/09: Dublin has enjoyed the winter very much-plowing full speed ahead in the snow. And he's looking forward to warmer weather so he can go walking and exploring! He's learned a few new tricks which he loves to show off. Dublin is a very smart boy who needs something to do and learn new things to keep him busy. He does enjoy watching late night tv snuggled up with his foster mom. Dublin had calcium oxalate bladder stones which will require his diet to be watched but it's easy to do! He enjoys exercise, walking and riding in the car. Dublin is looking for a home that has terrier experience and good leadership skills. He really enjoys being with people and doing things together. You have to watch out for this guy, he will sneak up on you and shower you with kisses!

10/06/2008: My name is Dublin. I'm a very smart, take charge kind of guy. Although if you are a good leader, I'll gladly let you take charge of everything. I love it when I'm waited on, get belly rubs and I really, really enjoy long walks! My foster mom calls me a walking fool. I know the walking rules too – stop and sit at each corner before crossing the street, never pull on the leash and always politely greet everyone I meet. I'm not quite ready for adoption. I had bladder stone surgery earlier this year (OUCH)! I have one more test to take at the vet's office and hope to get the 'all clear' signal, then I'm ready to go! Foster mom wants me to have a clean bill of health so I feel as great as I look. Oh yeah - I'm a bit conceited too - it's hard being intelligent and handsome!

UPDATE 6/15/09: Elsie here: It's my turn to talk. I'm doing just fine - no matter what that man says. I'm putting on a wonderful long coat and I tore up my new toy yesterday. My point is simple: I'm a good looking girl and don't buy cheap toys! I was very busy with that toy so I couldn't finish the job on that man's slippers. I did take one out in the rain, however. He can't make up his mind. Sometimes he laughs about my "tricks", and other times he seems a bit excited. I'm going to have to get a new harness – I'm putting on some weight and this one is getting too snug to suit me. This place was pretty easy to take over, but I'd like a place of my own. Call me.

UPDATE 6/6/09: Ms Elsie is outside today. She has gotten very fond of grass after overcoming some early suspicion. One of her favorite places is head and shoulders "in" the dog door. I tried to explain to her that leaving her other end outside leaves it somewhat vulnerable, but so far none of the resident dogs has trampled her. She still doesn't bark as much as my dogs, but her voice is readily identifiable when she greets me. I'm not nearly as scary to her and get lots of sniffs, licks and touches with her cold nose. Elsie readily takes treats from my hand. I don't push cuddling or lap time on frightened dogs until they seem ready, and feel that she is progressing normally toward cuddles. She does lie touching other dogs. As much as I enjoy watching her relax and loosen up, I know she would appreciate a home of her very own.

UPDATE 5/28/09 : Well, I looked at myself in the mirror and I'm getting redder every day. I also seem to have put on a little weight. It's a good thing I feel inclined to run around and play, or I would get chubby. I started to bark a little this week. I think I have a scary bark - I hope.

Foster Dad: Today I was licked on my outstretched hand, albeit briefly. Good sign though. Part of her reluctance is fear, which is very common for the first few months with dogs released from life in a commercial breeding facility. She's loving the freedom though. It's a major concession for her to slow down. Elsie loves to run alone and also chase the other dogs. She is curious, funny and friendly toward the resident dogs. She's still not too clear about why squirrels and birds are desirable but more than happy to go along for the run. She also has an "off button" and puts herself to bed when she needs it. Elsie's evaluation period is over, so she's ready to be considered for adoption!

05/27/2009: My new name is Elsie. I'm a 4 year old, red wheaten girl – a little skinny, but in good health. I'm not sure about people yet, but my foster brothers and sisters are friendly to me. I had a beauty appointment but my foster dad said they cut my hair too short. The good news is he says good food will help it grow - and more important, he's giving me a bunch of good food. I also get to use all the dog toys here.

Foster Dad: This girl was terrified when she arrived. She's been learning about dog doors, grass, and outside pottying. There has been no conflict with the resident dogs. So far, I'm not too popular, but cheese is almost enough to cure that. In just the short time she's been here, she has demonstrated understanding of commands and wants to please. She loves to play with the other dogs or with toys by herself. Her tail is always going and so far she has been pretty quiet. She's increasingly curious and has had a couple of instances of thinking that my things apparently looked like her things – so she took them! Don't wait to apply for Elsie. She will likely be growing more Cairn attitude for a long time and there is no reason she can't do that at your house.

UPDATE 4/27/09: Hi there! Jessica here, and I'm really enjoying green grass and spring. I have a new job at my foster home. I'm in charge of mole patrol. I sniff them out and dig trenches following them in hopes of catching one. I stick my face in the hole trying to see the little critters but, alas, I have not caught any! And if foster mom says, "TREAT!" then I forget about mole chasing; I go for the sure thing. Foster mom wants you to know that I am perfectly housetrained - never an accident. I can tell time too. I will let you know when it's time for my meals AND I will let you know when it's time for my thyroid pill too. I like it placed on a small treat with just a tad of peanut butter to hold the pill. I will get in my kennel on command - just tell me, "Go to your room", and away I go! I'm all healed from that tail thing and ready to go to my very own forever home! Please! Foster mom put a new picture of me on the website with dirt on my nose from mole patrol! How embarrassing. I need a home with no cameras, although that can be negotiable. I hope my new home sees my new picture and fills out the application for JESSICA!

UPDATE 1/22/09: Jessica has come a long way and I'm happy to announce that she is ready for her very own forever home! Her little tail is completely healed from the amputation and she's feeling great. She no longer chases her tail but will look at it now and then to make sure it's really true - the pain and infection are gone for good! Jessica recently had a complete CBC and thyroid test done. She received the best news ever from the vet - her tests came back great! She also flirted with the vet to get lots of treats. Jessica will initiate play with people. She loves to chase you if you will chase her. She plays ball with you and will give directions to you if you don't know how to play the game. Jessica loves to have her neck and ears rubbed. She will also show you how to do this just right. This little lady is completely housebroken and will obey commands promptly. She's a special girl and ready to find a home of her own.

11/22/2008: As you may recall, U.S. soldier Jessica Lynch was rescued from Iraq after her humvee came under attack. Broken and battered, she endured months of rehabilitation for physical and emotional trauma, overcoming the adversities that were not of her making. Col. Potter recently welcomed her namesake, Jessica, a 9-year-old reddish-wheaten girl, who is also working to overcome her own adversities. Five years ago Jessica's tail was nicked by a groomer - a small nick. It healed, but Jessica kept digging at her tail, which then became a major source of pain and discomfort. After various treatments at four clinics failed, Jessica kept chewing and eventually severed her own tail. She was turned in to Col. Potter where her tail was tended with surgery to close the tip properly. Jessica came to my home after her surgery and we now have the challenge of healing the emotional problems. She has spells of ferociously trying to reach her stump, and went from the Elizabethan collar to a "donut", with which she seems more comfortable. She's coolly polite with my other dogs and they seem reserved with her as well, but she is falling into pack routines quite well. She loves skritches on the head, has not objected to my touching fairly close to her tail, and also sleeps on my lap for hours. We're trying to bring her weight up a bit and she enthusiastically supports that goal. Jessica loves her wire crate although she has explored the entire house as well. She seems to be fully potty trained, but likes to have a human outside with her if she's outside for very long. She walks at a good speed and definitely likes to lead. Jessica is truly special, and this little girl needs a patient hero to help her focus on recovering.

UPDATE 5/11/09: Happy Mother's Day to little Miss Kestrel. She is celebrating her first Mother's Day in a home environment since her release from the confines of a commercial breeding life; the only home she ever knew before coming into Col. Potter. She has come such a long way. Though it isn't too evident from her latest photos, Kestrel is now letting me begin to groom her. This is a huge step for a little girl who was afraid of every human touch. Now that the weather is nice, Kestrel enjoys being outside with her foster siblings just soaking up the sun or dashing madly after her ball, which she shakes wildly when she catches it. Yes, I think this dainty little girl has some serious prey drive in her.

UPDATE 4/5/09: Just as spring has arrived, Miss Kestrel is springing into new life as well. The fears and demons of her past are slowly melting away, fading as she begins to feel the warmth of love in her new surroundings. A predictable schedule, a routine she knows, is so important to her sense of safety. She thrives on our breakfast routine. It's her happiest time of the day. As soon as breakfast is over, she marches outside with all the other dogs as they do their jobs. She wastes no time! She then explores the yard to make sure all is well. Recently, she has discovered the joy of chasing a ball. Since she doesn't want to give up her treasure after she fetches it, we use two balls. She has to constantly drop one ball to fetch the other. This vigorous exercise is good to help Kestrel get rid of some of the nervousness and tension she still exhibits. This is really the first type of play that Kestrel has known and it is so much fun to see her running at full speed and to actually enjoy herself! This is such a huge step for little Kestrel!

UPDATE 1/29/09: Miss Kestrel continues to progress in her new life outside the commercial breeding facility where she once lived. Because that's the only life she's ever known, she was never exposed to much human interaction, and she is learning how to trust for the very first time. Her intelligence and Cairn spirit kept her going in her previous life and those characteristics are still shining through. But now she is well fed, warm, healthy and watched over by foster mom who calls her Kessie Lou. Kessie is still quite wary of people, but of men in particular. She doesn't yet have the courage to come when her name is called, but watches with curiosity to determine why she is being summoned. She watches her foster brothers and sister play, but hasn't joined in yet. She has a very healthy appetite and has gained three pounds since her arrival. Breakfast is her absolute favorite meal of the day and she wiggles all over when it is time to fill her bowl. This morning was the first time she has ever offered a full belly-up position, so that I could rub her tummy.

UPDATE 11/19: Hi, there. Miss Kestrel here checking in from Indiana. I want to tell you what I've learned since I came here. First of all, I know now that it isn't so bad living in a nice warm house with people who give me plenty of goodies to eat and lots of nice skritches, too. I've learned that I don't have to hide from absolutely everything and everybody. Plus, I've found out about things called "toys" that are made just to be chewed on. Best of all, guess what, I’ve even found my bark! Foster Daddy says I sound like a little toy horn.

Foster Mom: Kestrel, Kessie as we call her, has come a long way since she first arrived here. She now shows more of her natural inquisitive nature. She also seems happier instead of just being fearful all of the time. Even though Kestrel holds her tail high and wags it frequently now, she will still retreat quickly to her "safe place" if your movements are too fast around her. Kessie's next big hurdles are learning to play with her foster brothers and sister and learning how to go for walks. Stay tuned for Miss Kestrel's progress.

10/06/2008: Hi, my name is Kestrel. My foster Mom says I'm as cute as a bug and almost as little. I'm a tiny girl as I weigh in at only 10 lbs. But truth is, Cairns are known for being "big dogs in little bodies."

Foster Mom: Kestrel is tiny and she has a beautiful black brindle coat to go with her petite size. It has been recently shaved down (when she was removed from her commercial breeding facility), but will be gorgeous when it grows out. She is three years old, spayed and heartworm negative. She is up-to-date on all her vaccinations and is now on heartworm preventive.

Kestrel hasn't been able to be fully evaluated yet because she's still fearful of all the changes in her life, so she's not yet ready for adoption. Though she's not ready to go to a forever home quite yet, I have seen a few tiny sparks of Cairnitude in this little lady, so stay tuned for further updates on Kestrel's progress.

06/28/2009: 6/28/09: Missy came into Col. Potter due to the economic situation faced by many families today. She was a beloved companion for many years. Missy is a sweet, gentle soul who is a delight to have around. She's not a demanding girl, or much of a barker. Toys, a soft bed, TV time, and exploring the back yard are some of her favorite things. No housebreaking or crate training needed; she's perfect in those departments. Missy is a mellow Cairn who enjoys a good chase around the living room. She's fond of squeaky toys and has her special toy that she's had for years - she is not a toy destroyer! Missy is a very easygoing, endearing girl waiting for that special forever home who is looking for a special lady like her.

07/02/2009: Meet O'Hare, one of the sweetest little guys I've ever met. He's had kind of a tough row to hoe, with an intestinal problem taking away what little nutrition he got in the breeding facility and leaving his body mostly skin, bones and fur. As you can see he's terribly skinny, although long, red fur makes it hard to tell. He has at least a couple of weeks to go before he is rechecked by the vet and then he might be strong enough to look for a new mommy or daddy to take care of him. He's finished his meds and now just needs extra meals and some exercise. He's sure not a complainer though. Oh, he talks all right (and quits talking when I ask him nicely), but he never complains or gets upset, even when he falls down trying to climb the stairs. His back legs just don't have the strength yet to jump up that step, but he really works at it. We took a little walk yesterday and had a grand time. You'd think he's walked on a leash all his life the way he trotted sedately beside me. He's not housebroken yet, but he's willing and eager to go potty outside when I ask him to. He won't take long to figure out that inside is never yes and outside always is. Check back on O'Hare soon!

UPDATE 5/26/09 : Alpine is super sweet, with big puppy eyes that are looking for love. She responds to my voice and comes running to greet me when I go to the puppy crate. She loves to cuddle - and gives kisses already! The puppies are all teething, so we are telling her 'no bite' and then we give her a toy to chew on. Tonight she was entertaining herself with a little toy and was shaking it to pieces! She's a Cairn! She also enjoys some wrestling with her siblings. She is learning to come out of the puppy crate to go potty on the newspapers and will go outside to potty also. She will make some lucky family a very special addition. She is being wormed and will have all her puppy shots. Before you know it, she will be ready for her forever home. Hurry, this sweetie is not going to be here for very long once she is available.

UPDATE 5/9/09: Little Alpine has caught up to her sister in the weight category as she is a very eager little eater. One eye is open, and the other is soon to be. She is just the cutest thing ever! So quickly she is changing and growing. Before I know it she will be ready for her forever home, but not yet! I still get to enjoy her for a few more precious weeks.

04/30/2009: Alpine is the "baby" of the American Car Family – she was born last. She also went to visit the vet this week with her siblings to have her dew claws removed. She didn't like it any better than her brother or sister did! She is eating, sleeping and gaining weight nicely. She did well with her nail trimming and slept right through it! She is just adorable with her little puppy noises! She will not be ready for adoption until she is eight weeks old, but I will be sure to keep you all updated with new information and photos so you can watch her grow.

UPDATE 5/26/09: Champ is still the champion on size. He is a little brewster! We just love him. He craves attention and will sit by your feet and cry to be picked up and cuddled. He does enjoy a good wrestling match with his sisters too and is very interested in the toys. His baby teeth are coming in, so he likes to chew so we are teaching him to 'no bite'. He is easily distracted with a toy! He is very social and comes running to see me when I call for the puppies! He also leaves the puppy sleeping crate to potty on the newspapers and will go potty outside when I take him out. He has started his worming medicine and will have all his puppy shots before it is time for him to go to his forever home. He has lots of love to share, and will make someone's home a very happy one!

UPDATE 5/8/09: Champ is such a cutie pie. He is getting so big, so fast! He is healthy and vibrant and has both eyes open. He is such a doll! He is now two weeks old and has changed so much already. Can't wait to see what the next two weeks will be like.

04/30/2009: Here is our little Champ. He was a little stinker trying to put off being born, but his mama got the job done. Since his arrival he has been Mr. Porky Pig! He is super sweet and loves to snuggle with his sisters. Now don't you go feeling sorry because he's the only boy! He is adored by everyone who lays eyes on him - and I think he might know it already. Champ also had quite the week, with a visit to the vet to have his dew claws removed. He did not really appreciate that, but I told him he would in the future. He did super with his nail trimming for me. He will not be ready for adoption until he is eight weeks old, but he will have a biweekly update and new photos so you can watch him grow!

05/19/2009: Miss Krissy arrived in fine fashion. She is pretty naked as the vet techs shaved her closely. She seems to have a hot spot of some kind on one side, though it doesn't seem to bother her. Her ears are in pretty rough shape and she is taking medication for both, but I don't think one of her ears will ever stand again. That's ok - it adds to her charm. So far she has gotten along great with the resident pack; cats, dogs, kids, and goat - it's all good. She keeps her crate clean and dry all night, and we have started working on house training. She hasn't quite figured out walking on a leash yet, but she enjoys going new places. Krissy is a very happy girl and seems to enjoy life!

UPDATE 5/16/09: Rambler is doing just fine. He is friendly, and playful, and a thief! Rambler has a cave, it is behind a chair next to the desk in the office and he hides all his loot there. So when foster mom is walking around with one slipper on, and one foot with frozen toes - I know right where to look! Rambler gets on very well with his foster brother and sisters. He has learned that taking turns is far less work than trying to get someone else's treat, and if he just waits a minute – his turn will come. He has a very gentle mouth and takes treats very nicely indeed. Rambler is not a jumper. So far he has not even attempted to jump up onto anything. Up until last night he has slept well in his crate. We moved him to a bigger crate at bedtime last night and he barked for quite some time. So tonight I will put him back in his own crate and see how that works.

All Rambler really is lacking is a forever home. The young man may be 11 but no one has told him that. Won't you give him the love he has been missing all these years?

UPDATE 5/7/09: Although the vet thinks Rambler is about 11 years old, he thinks he is still a youngster. He is inquisitive, active, a lover and a player. He loves to play with toys, socks, envelopes and his favorite slippers! Unless we keep our slippers in the desk drawer or on top of the dresser, when they are not on our feet, they seem to run around the house on their own! Rambler is very smart and learned quickly that he gets dinner in his x-pen every evening, and as soon as Kenneth gets the bowls out Rambler high tail's it to his x-pen and sits patiently waiting for dinner to be served.

His belly bands are dry most of the time and he does not seem to mind wearing them. He does not like the flash on the camera and runs and hides when he sees it, so it is difficult to get his picture. We have had a lot of thunder storms in the last few days and he is not bothered by the noise at all.

I can't tell you about cats as we don't have one, but he gets along great with the other dogs, and he is great with my grandchildren that are age 3 and 4. So, all in all, Rambler is a great little man and he is just waiting for his own forever home! Could he be your guy?

UPDATE 5/3/09 : Rambler has been in his foster home just a little over two weeks. This little man is a dynamo! He runs, plays, and investigates everything. We have these round files that sit on the floor next to our desks and we keep all kinds of interesting stuff in them. Rambler reads the mail, inspects the envelopes and yesterday found an empty yogurt cup in one of these treasure chests. Today the wastebaskets are up on the desk!

Rambler is doing very well with his house training. He started out with a belly band that is quite big on him but does the trick. His own bands arrived yesterday and he is keeping them dry. Woo hoo! Rambler is a very social little man and enjoys the other dogs. He likes toys, food, cheese and as much lovins' as we'll give him. He does not care for the flashy thing I keep pointing at him. I tell him his forever home needs pictures though, so he'll just have to deal with the camera occasionally. Some lucky person is going to have a wonderful little man in his or her arms very soon. I just don't see how Rambler will be available very long. He is WAY too cute.

04/27/2009: Rambler got his very own blankie yesterday, and he has already tried it out. The other dogs didn't even try to take it away. After 11 years in a puppy mill, he certainly is due some good times. Rambler has to take half a pill every evening, and it is hidden in a tiny piece of cheese. Well, he gets so excited you would think I was passing out hundred dollar bills. I swear that he can smell the cheese as soon as I open the package in the kitchen. This dog loves his cheese! Of course it is not possible to hand out pieces of cheese just to him so we have a veritable feeding frenzy as all five Cairns in the house get a tiny taste. My crew all know that if they wait their turn everyone will get some, but Rambler has not yet learned this and he is convinced that if he bounces around enough he will get MORE CHEESE. So, to whichever one of you lucky folk is already thinking that you need a tiny little old black dog in your heart - if he needs any medicine you just have to remember one word - CHEESE!

Update 6/26/09: Sebring is now officially free; no more babies for her! She had her spay surgery last week and got her teeth all polished and cleaned. She did great. The vet clipped and filed her toenails and she had all of her shots brought up to date. Her left eye is permanently scarred so it does have a white overcast to it, but that doesn't slow her down in the least. She is such a cutie – and so very playful! She is a tiny little thing and is so easy to handle - a low maintenance Cairn girl! She loves to be around people and comes to me for scratches and lays by my feet when I am working on the computer. She really enjoys destuffing toys and then taking the squeaker out! She has done very well here and has overcome many of her fears. Sebring is a super nice girl who will bring many smiles to the special family who decides to make her their own.

UPDATE 6/10/09: Sebring continues to be playful as ever, and happy to be weaning the puppies. Here she is enjoying herself with a toy:tinyurl.com/nc5fgr

UPDATE 5/26/09: Listen up everyone! Sebring's puppies will soon be old enough to be adopted and that means Sebring will be available very soon too! She is around two and a half years of age and really acts like a puppy herself. She is doing great with potty training and will not go in the x-pen at all since the puppies have been born. She does great on a schedule and is starting to learn that treats are yummy. She is super sweet and is self-entertaining with toys. It is just hilarious to watch her play! She hops and pounces and throws the toy and then chases after it. When Sebring arrived to my home, her left eye was very cloudy. We don't know how long it had been like that, but we could safely assume that she was not able to see very well, if at all with that eye. My vet did some testing that showed that she has a healed corneal ulcer and that there is scar tissue built up on her eye now. So, I have been putting medication in her eye, which she tolerates very well, three times per day and I have to say that it is looking so much better! I am so happy for her. This week Sebring got a bath-she didn't really appreciate the bath part! - then got all that dead hair removed and then brushed and prettied up. She even got her nails done. She looks and feels great! See her new pictures! She will soon be spayed, have her teeth polished, and be up to date on all her shots. Don't wait to get your application in because this one is going to break a lot of hearts!

UPDATE 5/7/09: Sebring is adjusting to motherhood and attends to her babies' needs. She really loves people's attention. She loves toys too and pounces on them like a kitten! She is a very sweet little girl who is trying to make up for lost time! Yesterday Sebring went down the steps for the first time! We cheered her all the way down. She is doing great with potty training and will not go in the area where her babies are. She is not ready for adoption yet since the puppies are only two weeks old. Check back for updates on how she is doing!

UPDATE 4/26/09 : YAY! Sebring had her puppies! She had two girls and one boy and they are BEAUTIFUL! Click on this link to see them at 2 days old: http://tinyurl.com/csqahu

04/19/2009: Sebring is going to have puppies! We all want to know WHEN, but she won't tell me! Can you believe that?! She wants it to be a surprise and I hate surprises! Sebring is such a sweetheart. She is very lovable and craves my attention. She loves ear and back scratches and has even tried to show me her belly but those puppies are in the way! She is playful and thinks toys are a lot of fun. It's so cute to watch her pounce on one and then shake it like crazy. She is learning that a leash is not something to be afraid of and that going outside is not as scary as she first thought. Not only did she come to Colonel Potter pregnant, but she also came with a sore on her left eye. We are hoping that with medication we can get it to resolve quickly. Check back soon to see if those puppies have arrived since Sebring is due any day now! Right, Sebring?!?

06/08/2009: If you have been waiting for that perfect Cairn to come along for your household, your wait is over. Little Miss Babs is here to fulfill all your Cairn wishes! She is a well-mannered owner surrender, already house broken and leash trained. She is calm and loves her couch time but still has those Cairn moments of zooming joyfully around the house and "killing" the toys. She was raised as an "only child" but has adjusted well to her two foster sisters and to being at the bottom of our household pack. She knows to sit to be fed or get treats and to wait her turn. She would probably benefit from a Cairn or terrier playmate.

She is crate trained but prefers to sleep on the bed or beside it. When she needs to go out (or when she thinks it is time for us to get up) she gently pats me with her paw. If I am not facing her, she just crawls right up on my chest for some face-to-face time, all wiggles, kisses and good cheer.

She is in good health and while I am watching her closely for any "flaws" in her behavior or manners - I haven't found any. She is a happy, very well adjusted little dog. I think she has been loved and treated well all of her life and needs a home where that will continue.

UPDATE 6/26/09: This little girl has made a tremendous amount of progress in the last week. She has mastered the doggie door and is making serious progress on her potty habits. She is a great student of my "teacher dogs" - chases squirrels, barks at birds, protects the yard, and has learned what is expected of her in the pack here. She has alpha tendencies, but does not push at all. She had a visit with my vet for an overall update and check, and was found to be in excellent health. The vet could not believe that she was raised in a breeding facility, as she was so outgoing and friendly with everyone in the office. She sleeps in her crate well at night after a little protest, but she would rather not sleep there at all. We are working on her leash training, which is also progressing. Enchirito is waiting to meet her new family. She would so love to have a family of her own!

06/18/2009: Enchirito is a beautiful, sweet little Cairn girl who was released from a breeding facility recently. She does not display the fears or shyness normally associated with breeding dogs. She loves people, and readily comes for attention and lap time. She is approximately 3-4 yrs. The vet said that her teeth were in very good condition, so probably closer to three years old. Although she climbed over an x-pen during the intake period, she plays in our yard without showing any intent to dig or jump to escape. Despite the fact that she sleeps well in her crate all night, she does not like to be confined. She has had enough of that in her life before Col. Potter. Enchirito does fine with our dogs, has started to guard the yard, and is comfortable with both men and women. She had a "spa" visit today and was groomed by a male groomer, giving him kisses. Since she seems so well socialized, I think that she would do fine with other dogs in the home or as an only dog. It would be better if she could be welcomed into a home where there was some degree of split work schedules or a retired family. She enjoys people so much and does not like to be alone for any length of time. She has already done pretty well on the leash, although we are just getting started. I think Enchirito would be happy anywhere - as long as she is loved and cared for like a part of the family.

UPDATE 5/31/09: Dear Forever Family - My foster mom said that it was time for me to write you to tell you all my good qualities. I am not one to brag, but I am a pretty cool dude! I have been a really good dog in almost every way. I love to eat and will dance and sing for my food. I love to play with my squeaky ball but will share it with my foster brother when he gets it on the first bounce. He also shares with me so it is fair! I wag my tail real big whenever my foster mom comes into the room. Sometimes I even ask her to pick me up. She says to tell you that I am the cuddliest, cutest dog she has ever held. Boy, isn't that great! I can still get scared when my foster dad comes into the room, but I also love to cuddle with him in bed in the morning because he gives me special treats that none of my foster brothers get. I feel REALLY special then.

My foster mom told me that I am getting better in the potty training department. She and I continue to have discussions about that one. You see, for four years I just went in my crate. None of this, "wait until you go outside" business. Foster mom says that isn't civilized. But it is hard to remember it all. So I can be real good one day and then forget the next. But I promise you, forever family, that I am working on this very hard! I am pretty adaptable. I like my brothers and sister but would also be okay with just one person who will love me. That is really all I need, I promise. I still have a lot of exploring and learning to do. So I hope you have time to show me how to be good, to teach me about taking walks, riding in cars, and all the good stuff that I know I can do if you just give me a chance. So please fill out that application right now, okay?

Your best friend, JakeE

UPDATE 4/19/09: This sweet, loving boy is making slow progress in all areas. Jake will put his paws up on my knee and ask to come up on a lap for loves and tickles. And he finally understands that pottying outside earns great treats and pets. Jake is still quite timid. He hesitates to explore the house, instead waiting for his foster mother to take him from room to room. At this point, he prefers to sit right next to his foster mother although he will take treats from his foster dad.

In the morning when I make my slice of peanut butter toast I sing to the dogs: "Peanut butter time, peanut butter time, all good dogs love peanut butter time" and they all come running, line up and wait patiently until it is their time to get a lick of peanut butter from my finger. It is a ritual in this foster home. This is the one time that Jake will come and get in line with the rest of my 3 resident Cairns. This and the fact that he loves to play ball with his foster brother, encourage me to think he'll gather more courage in the weeks to come as he sees his life getting better and better. He is waiting for someone to help him learn that the world outside his crate is safe. Do you have room in your heart for a sweet, shy guy?

UPDATE 3/16/09: When JakeE first came we called him "Shakee-JakeE". Now, after three weeks, he has become more bold and has found his Cairn voice! His foster brother recently taught him to play with balls - see the video clip link below. JakeE had his first trip to our local dog park today. For the first time in his life he was able to run with the other dogs. He even came up to say hello to some of the people! This little guy is going to be a great buddy to other dogs. Click this link to watch a video of JakeE playing with his ball: http://tinyurl.com/d3k2qa

03/10/2009: Please welcome our newest foster, JakeE, a young male who spent his first four years at a commercial breeding facility. There are many lessons to learn about this new life. JakeE quickly decided that soft blankees, toys and Cairn siblings are great. He is not too keen about his belly band but he still is learning how to keep his home clean and dry! JakeE has been neutered and is up to date on all vaccinations. Would you like a sweet Cairn boy who will sit on your lap, give kisses, and appreciate your love? If so, JakeE is the boy for you!

UPDATE 6/8/09: Bubbles got to experience a family party today and she did fine - quietly watching everything, knowing where every human was at any point in time. She did get picked up once or twice but that was not the high point of her day. I cannot express how Bubbles is no trouble at all, and how your heart warms when she woo-woos for breakfast or snacks. She is just the most adorable girl and it is so heartwarming seeing her open up to life.

UPDATE 5/26/09: The best way to see an animated Bubbles is to pick up the cookie jar. You will be "Woo-Woo'd" until you treat her. She also loves to play with the other dogs. The rest of the time, Bubbles is the next best thing to a stuffed dog. She loves to watch the world go by, no barking, no fussing - just a little bit of digging. Bubbles was in a commercial breeding facility for most of her life - she is still fearful of people - except at mealtime - and of the outdoors. Her mammary lumps were benign, so she is cancer free, but like anyone with a history of mammary lumps, she will need regular checks for lumps (check your own first - then check hers)! She is a sweet soul who needs a warm place to grow old, preferably with a younger dog - to keep her young and bring her out of her shell.

UPDATE 5/9/09: Do you have a little hellion? Need some help? Bubbles is the perfect nanny to come in and teach your little whippersnapper some manners. Bubbles is still shy of people, but she adores other dogs, and does her best to teach the younger dogs to behave. She mostly watches people, but come dinner time or treat time, she will anxiously tell you to hurry up and feed her! She is on a regular schedule for potty times. Although she won't tell you she needs to go out, if you put her out regularly she will potty outside very nicely.

UPDATE 3/17/09: Miss Bubbles has gained enough confidence to complain about the chow coming too slow! Not with your ordinary dog barks, but with Woo-Woo sounds that would put her in good standing with the Three Stooges. She peeks around the corner and tells you off if you are slow. Of course, collapsing into laughter doesn't speed anything up, so her chiding can go on for a bit. Bubbles is such a sweetheart you want to grab her and cuddle her - but she isn't really comfortable yet with that. She is still nervous around people - but every day she improves a little and I have great hopes that she will one day enjoy the cuddles and hugs. What she does enjoy is playing with the other dogs - it varies from gentle play to out and out roughhousing but when you sit quietly, she'll come out of her corner and initiate play with the other dogs. Do you have a gentle dog for Bubbles to nurture?

UPDATE 1/30/09: Bubbles had pulled a stitch, but the vet fixed it and she is now doing fine. The vet explained that one side was very discreet lumps, but the other side was more of a fatty tumor interwoven with muscle. Thankfully, biopsies of both tissues came out negative. Foster mom is teasing Bubbles that she had 'Liposuction'. Bubbles still loves playing with the other Cairns at her foster home, but continues to spend most of her time watching people. She would be a wonderful gal to have with a younger puppy. She plays gently and teaches manners to rowdy little ones, and I think she's remembering her time with her pups. She does like to chew paper and plastic, so care has to be taken to keep her safe from herself. Animal crackers are a huge favorite for her. She is also trying to train her foster mom, and she has the funniest "Woo Woo Woo" chiding bark if breakfast is EVER late. It's all foster mom can do to keep from laughing out loud at her every morning. Other than telling foster mom off for being slow, Bubbles is a very quiet girl. Thanks to all who have become her Guardian Angels - you surely picked an Angel to help.

UPDATE 12/17: Bubbles is not a happy camper today - I think the pain meds wore off - she's not making noise but she looks like she hurts. I decided to hold her (she's not a big fan of people just yet) and I took her to my chair and rolled her over. When I turned her over to inspect her dressing, it was pink tinged - but mostly dried. I laid my hand on her belly below the dressing, and when I picked it up, there was a small (about the size of my thumbnail) drop of blood on her belly. This did not reoccur when I put my hand back, but there is a spot of fresh blood on her dressing. I called my vet and Bubbles is going back in today to check that nothing serious is happening, and hopefully for a clean dressing. Just back from the vet - she got some extra wrapping and a vitamin K shot and will be checked again Friday.

The good news is that Bubbles did eat some dinner last night and breakfast today. And she walked around a bit this morning - slow and a bit unsteady. She is very sweet. She's been expensive. To date, CP has spent over $900 on her - and she will need a second x-ray in a few weeks to ensure there are no new lumps. If you've been considering donating to a Guardian Angel dog, please consider Bubbles.

UPDATE 12/11: Bubbles has several large lumps on her lower breasts and needs to have them removed. She had an x-ray to verify the cancer had not spread to her lungs, but that same x-ray showed 'something' different near her heart. Bubbles then had a sonogram done to verify there was no damage to her heart. The good news is that her heart has some thickening on one wall, which would be 'normal' for a dog that has been in a high ammonia environment found in a commercial kennel but her heart is functioning very well and she would be fine to have her surgery. She does not need any cardiac medications, she can continue all normal diet and activities. She's now scheduled for surgery on Tuesday to have her lumps removed. They are HUGE so I'm glad that everything else looks so good.

UPDATE 12/10: Bubbles is still the sweet soul she was when she first came to us. She loves to interact with my dogs and they love her. She is nervous about people so she prefers to just watch us. Just recently it was discovered that Bubbles has some lumps on two of her breasts. She is going to be x-rayed soon to see if they are suitable for surgery. Until the x-rays are complete we will not know what challenges she faces. Let’s all pray this sweetie can be helped. If you are able to make a donation to help with the medical expenses for Bubbles, please click on the Guardian Angel link at the top.

10/03/2008: Bubbles must be the Mae West of doggiedom. Both male Cairns in her foster home are DELIGHTED she is here - prancing, dancing and showing off. At 26 pounds she waddles with magnificent composure between her adoring fans. Even my most distracted boy is eager to play and romp with her! I have taken her into the yard for some leash work. She was NOT thrilled. With her voluptuous proportions she can be quite an anchor! We worked it out and she got better as the day went on. She is still afraid of the leash when I am holding it though. When I let her run loose in the yard a bit, she went off on trails of discovery, and managed to fall down the 4 concrete basement steps. I've had dogs who didn't know how to traverse steps before, but they just stopped when confronted by them. Bubbles kept right on walking! Needless to say, there is now a gate across those steps. I have a ramp down from the deck and she really appreciates that. Bubbles is a sweet, very overweight girl, who may never be called 'Tiny Bubbles' - at least not ‘til she loses a good bit of weight. Her muscle tone is not good yet - possibly due to confinement in a crate for long periods of time. She's very playful with all the dogs here - boy and girl, but gets tired quickly. This will improve as she loses weight and plays more with her foster siblings. She seems oblivious to toys so far. Bubbles has a mournful howl that only shows up when she is lonely. It’s cute, not jarring, and gives me a chuckle. It’s very effective at getting the boy dogs to go to her. She is a fairly quiet girl other than the one or two howls for attention.

UPDATE 6/24/09: Well, the attempts to easily improve Darra's skin issues have not been enough to give her comfort. While she is still a bit better than when she arrived in foster care, this little girl needs ongoing relief. She has been on a limited diet, antibiotics and anti-itch medicine, but she still scratches almost constantly (including sometimes in her sleep).
Darra lives in onesies now; the kind not snapped at the back. These help keep the scratching from completely ripping her skin up, as well as protecting her bare skin from the sun when she is outside. Virtually all of the skin on her back under the onesie is hairless or has a rash on it, as does her chest and feet. Some of that area is also 'elephant skin' - hardened skin from scratching.

She wants to be a sweet loving dog, but gets a bit growly when you touch something that hurts. She is learning that her foster family does not mean to hurt her, but will muzzle her to perform grooming and skin cleaning as needed. She still loves her showers because they are such a relief from the pain. Darra loves men, and jumps into their laps for kisses.

Col. Potter is sending her to a specialty vet to determine what is going on - and dermatology vets aren't cheap! Depending on necessary testing, it could potentially cost up to $800 dollars for treatment. Poor Darra is about 9 years old and according to vet records, has been suffering with this on and off since 2002. She is way past due for the chance to learn what it means to be pain-free. You can help with a donation of any size by clicking the Guardian Angel link at the top - Darra thanks you too!

UPDATE 6/8/09: Darra's vet visit got her some antibiotics and anti-itch medicine, and the results have been good so far. Her back is much cooler to the touch but it is still warm. We are really hoping the antibiotics will knock this out, but if not we may need to take her to a specialist. Please keep Darra in your prayers to help her feel better. She is very loving, especially to men, when she gets a chance. She loves when they give her soft scratches and let her kiss them!

UPDATE 5/26/09: Sadly, Darra's skin issues have erupted again. While they aren't as bad as when she first came to Col. Potter, she is certainly uncomfortable and her back is bald. Darra is currently on a wheat/corn free diet, gets weekly baths with Maleseb shampoo, and gets regular doses of Benadryl to help the itching. She will be going back to the vet to see if there is more we can do for her. When she is in this physical state, she gets quite grumpy and snappy. She requires a muzzle for working on her skin and feet.

UPDATE 5/9/09: Darra is still very headstrong and needs to be muzzled for working on her tummy or feet. But once muzzled, she usually lays quietly unless something being done is painful. Her skin is certainly acting up with the spring weather. She has a rash from her collar to the top of her hips. She is being treated, but for now it is not improving. Socially, Darra is improving immensely. She can be in the room with all of the fosters and get along well. And she LOVES to sit with Foster Dad for kisses and skritches!

UPDATE 3/18/09: Sad to say, Darra's skin issues have begun to crop up again. Her meds are gone, and her foster family also had some lapses in her feeding. She is no where nearly the state she was when she arrived - but she is starting to itch and scab up again. We are going back to a strict diet of Wellness Ocean and Wellness biscuits (no more animal crackers) and hoping her skin improves again. Even with her skin issues, Darra is a joy to bathe. She seems to know the maleseb shampoo will help heal her, and she adores the hand held shower massage! She leans into it and almost has a smile on her face as the water gently scratches her back. Darra has learned her "place" in her foster home - it's at foster dad's feet. He will skritch her with little provocation, and laughs at her cute dances for attention. She'll jump into his lap and kiss him until he makes her stop. Darra gets along well with most of the foster dogs but won't miss them when she leaves. After all, a Princess does not need minions. Just a daddy who will love her!

UPDATE 1/30/09: Darra is finally off the meds for her skin issues and so far, they do not seem to be coming back. The skin on her tummy is still a bit dark, but it is no longer the thickened 'elephant skin' it was when she arrived. The oiliness of her skin has improved tremendously. Other than the medications to help the itching and yeast infections, she has been on a strict diet of Wellness Ocean food and an occasional animal cracker. She also is not in contact with any wool - since wheat, corn and wool are common allergies for Cairns. Her improvement has been remarkable.

When Darra arrived she was very short tempered and not the most pleasant dog. Considering the condition of her skin - it was not surprising. As her skin improved, so has her temperament. She is a sweet loving dog who really prefers the attention of people. She does like to mouth hands and is still very stubborn, so she should be adopted by a very terrier experienced home. While she does play a bit with the other dogs at her foster home, she could easily be an only dog for a knowledgeable owner. Darra is very nicely housetrained - she will bark to alert you to her needs - both to go out and when it is time to come in.

12/10/2008: Darra is a sweet girl with a serious skin problem. She came to Col. Potter with a yeast infection on large areas of her body as well as an ear infection. We are working with her to try to heal her skin and overcome the infections. Grooming, with her skin issues, is somewhat painful but is really important for her health. It's no surprise that she doesn't welcome the grooming sessions. Aside from this, Darra is a very loving and well-trained little girl. She lets you know in no uncertain terms when she has to go outside to do her business, but is otherwise quiet around the house. She gets along with the other dogs in her foster home, but she will probably not miss them when she goes to her forever home because she is very people oriented. Nothing is better than a cuddle with a human! Darra is very strong willed and needs a home with terrier experience, so that she knows who is in charge.

06/14/2009: Please welcome Hubbard to the Colonel Potter family! She has been in her foster home for four weeks, after being retired from a commercial breeding facility. This has taken a toll on her, as she is very shy and unsure of human interaction. But we have made some progress with this sweet, beautiful girl. She knows the safety of her crate, where she spends almost all of her time. When it’s time to go outside, I call her and she darts from her crate and waits, cowering a bit, until I pick her up. She knows we are only going outside for some fresh air and potty, but her trust factor is not quite there. Once outside, she shakes her little tail and follows me around the yard, sniffing along as we walk. She no longer needs to drag a leash in case she doesn't want to come to me. She knows inside is safe. Normally she does her business quickly and will come up on the deck by herself. Getting her back inside takes a few moments. She really wants to go inside, but doesn’t want me to pick her up. I gently tell her “up” and catch her by her harness as she paces by me. Once I have her in my arms, she is fine.

Hubbard has yet to really explore the house, but she no longer bolts up to her room. She shows no interest in the resident Cairns, though they get along well, giving her space and occasional sniffs - which are reciprocated. She has shown no interest in toys, though today she chewed on a pig stick! She sleeps quietly at night and keeps her crate clean and dry. Hubbard will need more time to learn trust, so she is not ready for adoption just yet. Check back for updates, when she has made some more progress!

UPDATE 6/30/09: Glamour has decided spring and summer are ever so much nicer than winter snow and sleet. There are birds and butterflies to watch, grass to sniff occasionally, or she likes to just sit and soak up some rays. Glamour seems to be at peace with her new lot in life now. It seems to be enough for her to have good food, many comfy beds and a male buddy with whom to share her space. She wants no toys to play with, no cuddles or kisses from foster mom, not even a special treat now and then. And Ms. Cat, please keep your distance or you will get a growl for your invitation to play. Glamour is a very quiet little girl who only barks when it's wake-up time; time to hurry outside for potty first thing in the morning. Otherwise she is silent. Early morning is the time of day when she shows great joy with life - she wags her tail furiously, does cute little "woo woos" at mom to get up, and runs in little circles with play bow invitations to foster brother. If only she could let herself do this the rest of the day, life would be even better.

UPDATE 4/29/09: Glamour continues to slowly come out of her shell. She will now explore all the new Spring growth around the yard if she has her foster brother to the lead the way; she is still not quite brave enough to do this on her own. When foster mom is outdoors with her she still prefers the cement back porch to soft new grass and will lay by the back door to the house. Glamour is still very wary of humans although she loves them from a distance. She expresses lots of happy loud "aroos", butt wiggles and dancing at morning wake ups, for foster mom, and loves to have her back skritched as long as foster mom stays on the other side of the baby gate. Glamour will lay in mom's lap if picked up but she is still showing signs of tension and would rather be on her blankie. Glamour needs a family with lots of patience and time, and another male dog. There is a wonderful little girl in there - foster mom has seen it many times. It is just a very slow process for some of the commercial breeding dogs, but very worth the patience and wait!

UPDATE 3/20/09: Glamour is slowly but surely abandoning the security of her crate. She runs around the backyard and tries to get the resident dogs to play with her, with many "play bows" and tail wags. She will even wag at foster mom with the joy of running outdoors, loose – and in freedom. She is still is a little fearful of all the scary noises outside and would rather be indoors where it is safe, but the snow has melted which exposed many more interesting things to explore. Foster mom has gardening to start, so Glamour will be outdoors much more - far from the security of her crate. She is slowly deciding that sleeping on a lap might may be a very nice thing indeed. She still is quite hand shy but it will just take time and someone who won't rush her. Love may not erase - or make her forget her past, but hopefully love will bring her farther and farther into the present where she no longer has to live in fear, and only learns acceptance and love. Click on the link for a slideshow of Glamour photos: tinyurl.com/ ctyglf.

UPDATE 1/28/09: Glamour, who we've nicknamed Cammie, has moved to a new foster home to see if being around male dogs only, will make her adjustment to a life of freedom a little easier. When one of these little dogs has spent a life as a breeder and had no other life, it takes a little longer to trust and believe that a life of freedom truly has arrived. The old life of confinement can become a thing of the distant past. She has the true Cairn spirit - foster moms know how to recognize it. A tail wag once or twice, a bark from a usually silent throat, even a 'double pawed high-five' once! Baby steps are what she needs and the process cannot be hurried. If the foundation is wobbly – the confidence building is wasted effort.

Glamour will probably always do best in a very quiet home with a predictable routine. She does not yet trust that hands can offer ear rubs and skritches and offer wonderful treats, or that an open crate can be a respite - not a prison, that toys are not scary monsters, and that food will be tasty, nutritious and an adequate amount will be offered on a regular basis. Please be patient with her - the wait will be worth it!

10/26/2008: For the last several weeks, Michigan has been a safe haven for a dark-eyed wheaten beauty named Glamour. She is a little girl, weighing about 13 pounds, and looks much younger than her years. Glamour is a sweet-tempered girl, but she is also very timid. Perhaps she is a little overwhelmed by her new freedom and is still getting used to it. Glamour did catch on very fast what time meals are served in her foster home. She realizes that the DING of the microwave timer means something yummy is about to appear before her very eyes. At present Glamour keeps to herself sleeping on a doggie day bed in the dining room in a "safe" corner. She seems to enjoy squeeky toys and likes to gather them around her when she naps. So far Glamour ignores the three resident Cairns. However, when Foster Mom arrives home from work, Glamour will join the pack at the door; waiting for it to open. Being shy, Glamour always runs away when Foster Mom actually opens the door. When outside and invited to play by the smallest resident Cairn, Glamour will join in wagging her short tail enthusiastically. But then, as if she suddenly remembers she is "supposed" to be afraid, she stops play and runs into the house to the security of her bed. Glamour is in good health. She is heartworm negative and up to date on all her vaccinations. She was recently spayed and has had her teeth cleaned. Because of her shyness, Glamour is not at present ready for her forever home. However, she has shown marked progress and with a bit more socialization, her REAL outgoing Cairn personality will emerge and she will be ready.

05/27/2009: Kelso is a good little boy - a little over 1 year old, and at 11 pounds he's a little underweight. We're working to correct that with plenty of good food. Kelso is housebroken, and does very well with scheduled potty breaks. He's also very good on leash, and has shown no aggression over his food or toys. He loves to play with all the doggie toys here in his foster home. Sometimes when Kelso sits and looks at me, his tongue sticks out of his mouth almost as though his tongue is too big for his mouth. He looks so cute, it just makes my heart swell with affection. Kelso is a very loving little boy, and feels it's his duty to hand out lots of kisses.

UPDATE 6/22/09: Rustyn visited the vet for a recheck and the vet feels he has chronic dry eyes and will need medications continually. He accepts his meds with no problem. He will probably need his maintence drops twice a day and also possibly steriods. He is such an affectionate boy and continues wrestling with my Cairn. Today when the frog jumped in the pond, so did Rustyn, silly boy. He is such a joy and I feel he would make a great addition to any family.

UPDATE 6/8/09: Rustyn continues to be a happy boy. He plays nicely with my Cairn, and has seen my cat many times but leaves her alone, so now he has the run of the house. Rustyn had a recheck at the vet today and his medication is not working, so he has been put on new meds. Hopefully the new meds will correct his eye infection and help his dry eye, and he will be checked again in another two weeks. Dry eye will probably be a chronic condition, so we are working to control this and give Rustyn some relief. At this time, he is not available, but keep checking back!

05/28/2009: Rustyn came to Col. Potter because his family could no longer afford to care for him. He was raised with children. He is a playful, affectionate, happy boy. He loves to have his belly rubbed and loves to sit on my lap! He enjoys playing with my resident Cairn and keeps amused with his ball and Nyla Bone. He has met my cat briefly and I don't think that will be a problem. He sleeps quietly in his crate and keeps it dry all night The plus is, he's totally housebroken! He currently is being treated for dry eye. He has a recheck on Monday and hopefully will be given a clean bill of health. He is up to date on all his shots and is currently on heartworm and flea protection. He is truly a wonderful dog with no issues. Hopefully, he will be available in another week after his mandatory evaluation is finished. So get your application in today, and ask for Rustyn, cause this little guy will be scooped up fast!

UPDATE 6/30/09: Hello Everyone! I thought it was time I told you about myself instead of foster Mom doing it. My name is Catera, and I am a beautiful black brindle girl. When I first got here I was jet black; the breeder had dyed my hair! But now my true colors are starting to show. I am very friendly, yet shy. I am so happy to see everyone when I come out of my crate but I can't quite come close to let them pet me. Treats on the other hand, are really good and I am happy to take them - then run away. I really like salmon, lamb and corned beef. Also if you have an ice maker I LOVE ice cubes and will come running from anywhere when I hear the ice machine. Not only do I play with the ice cube, I eat it so it won't melt all over your floor! When I get picked up I am not too happy but if you put me on the couch next to you I will sit with you for hours. I love to be petted, or even groomed while watching TV. Check out my photo album: http://tinyurl.com/ l2j26s.
Talk to you later! Catera.

UPDATE 6/5/09: Catera is starting to settle in here quite nicely. She has learned that treats are given when we come in and is now waiting in line for her turn. She is quite excited during meal time, following me to get the food and running over to her spot when it is her turn. She is starting to wag her tail and bark at us in the morning or when we come home. Catera is still skittish. We have to move slowly when we walk by her or pick her up. She has learned that sitting on the couch is lots of fun and she really enjoys getting rubbed all over. Just don't stare at her because she is still fearful of prolonged eye contact. Her housebreaking is coming along but there are still accidents. She prefers to take herself out through the doggy door. This little girl won't last long, so get your application in quickly.

05/17/2009: I would like to introduce you to my new foster Catera. She has the most beautiful black coat; unfortunately her colors could change drastically. Catera loves to play with my other fur kids. In fact many times she initiates the play. We've also had other furkids visiting, and she loved playing with them also, but Catera is still very shy around humans. She will either run in her crate or go out the doggy door. She is starting to trust us for giving her treats, but as soon as she takes it she retreats to a safe distance. If you have the patience to help this little girl blossom, she will steal your heart quickly.

UPDATE 5/19/09 : Courtois has done a “complete one-eighty” since he’s been here. Gone is that shy boy that hid from the world – he is now a happy–go-lucky boy ready for adventure! He has a wonderful sense of humor, teasing the other dogs with a toy and then prancing away in glee. His favorite toy is a rubber stick we keep outside that was his foster buddy Huzzah’s prized possession, and now he’s claimed it. He’ll go find the stick and zoom by, shaking his head with it in his mouth and growling, wanting to be chased. He can be a bit bossy with the other furkids but minds when I correct him. He’s also decided the wading pool is great, and he loves to fetch a ball out of the water, sticking his face underwater to retrieve it. In the house, Courtois has a favorite bed he naps in, and he loves lap time, grunting all the while you give him skritches. He also has the cutest little ARROOOOOOO! Check out his video at: tinyurl.com/rbjkay

UPDATE 4/2/09: Courtois is finding more of his hidden inner Cairnitude each day! He loves emptying the toy box, carrying the toys to one location and ending up with most of the contents scattered around him. He is feeling more confident outside. When he first came he preferred to hide under the BBQ grill instead of taking care of business. Well, he hides no more! He’s now out running and playing with the other Cairns here, and his housetraining has improved immensely since he’s no longer afraid of the big outdoors. Courtois is a talker, arroooing at you when he thinks it’s mealtime, barking a warning at squirrels that look as though they might try to invade the yard, and grumbling at the other furkids when he thinks it’s his turn to run the show. His social skills still need some work as he’s a bit bossy with the other furkids, so a home with previous Cairn experience would be a plus. He looks forward to his lap time in the evenings, draping his body over yours, in total confidence that he’s found the good life. Are you looking for a sweet boy to join your family? Courtois may be just the boy for you!

UPDATE 3/15/09: Courtois (pronounced code-a-way) recently had a change in foster homes. He’s a beautiful boy, unique in his coloring, having a liver colored nose and hazel eyes. He comes when he’s called, loves to get skritches, and he’s especially happy to see there’s other young Cairn boys here to play with. He’s adjusting to his new surroundings and to our pack here. Please check on him again in a few weeks for a new update once we’ve had time to evaluate him.

UPDATE 2/15/09: Courtois is settling in very well. He has a new best friend-one of the other dogs in his foster home. They are about the same age and size, and they LOVE to play together. Courtois is still working hard on house training and continues to make great progress. Courtois does show a bit of food aggression sometimes, but his food is just so delicious! He does need a firm alpha owner with terrier experience, and would benefit from obedience training. Look for another update on this cutie soon!

01/31/2009: Courtois, who we've nicknamed Reid, is one of the "Missouri River Kids" rescued recently from a breeding facility in Missouri. He is 1 1/2 yrs old and has been neutered. This is a very sweet and social little boy. He was shy at first, but is warming up very quickly. He is an active dog who loves to play with the other dogs in his foster home. He’s finally getting to be the puppy he never got to be before! He's learning what toys are, and he loves to chew on a chew toy. He is crate-trained, and has not had any accidents in his crate. He is doing very well with housebreaking. Foster mom keeps him on a regular schedule which helps out a lot. Courtois gets along well with the other dogs and the cat in his foster home. He is a bit on the dominant side. Courtois has only been in foster care for a couple of weeks, but he blossoms more each day as he realizes what a dog's life is supposed to be like. If you are looking for a happy, healthy little Cairn to play with, then Courtois is the dog for you. What are you waiting for? Fill out that application now!

UPDATE 6/3/09: Magic has gone from a little Cairn struggling to hang on to life, to a boy who is now grabbing life with all three remaining paws! The mangled and crushed leg has been amputated and his shattered pelvis has been repaired. The troubling liver values are finally perfect. The damaged liver, intestines, stomach and all the other internal organs that suffered such severe trauma are healing. The road burned skin is showing signs of improving. And the attitude and will to live in this little Cairn has remained unwavering -- truly Magic! Of course, that adorable little face doesn't hurt anything either.

He has touched and amazed everyone he has come in contact with including the seasoned and experienced surgical team and staff at the vet. They couldn't believe some of the things he was doing despite the injuries and pain and how quickly and well he is recovering. This boy had quite a few tricks up his sleeve (or should I say his paw) to show them!

Magic is now up and walking around following surgery, although he seems to prefer walking on his front two legs and ignoring the rear one for now. With therapy and exercise, he should once again find use for that rear leg especially when chasing critters - but only from the safety of a fenced yard of course!

UPDATE 6/1/09; Magic is out of surgery to repair his pelvis - and he did just GREAT!

The surgeon didn't find anything more than what the x-rays had led him to expect. Magic now has a plate pinned to his pelvis to support and brace the pelvis so the four fractures can heal. He will be monitored very closely tonight to keep him off that leg and allow his body to catch up even further from the trauma of this second surgery. Tomorrow will be a day of rest and healing for him.

Then the rehabilitation and therapy will begin. Slowly at first, just allowing Magic to stand on his repaired pelvis and leg for the first week and then gradually increasing movement after that. It's been two weeks since the accident, he literally hasn't used any of his legs for that length of time. Even the front legs that weren't injured will also need to slowly regain their strength from muscles that have atrophied. He has certainly lived up to his name and continues to amaze all that he touches.

Please remember that Magic continues to need your support. Without this CP program, there would have been no one to help him get the medical and surgical care he needed and his story today would be far different. You can become a Guardian Angel for Magic by clicking on the link right above this update.

UPDATE 5/27/09: Magic came through the amputation surgery with flying colors! He is awake, alert and resting comfortably following surgery.

The surgeon reported that the decision to amputate rather than try and repair Magic's right rear leg was the right one. During the amputation he was able to determine that absolutely none of the arteries in Magic's leg were still capable of carrying any blood. The only blood the leg was receiving was through the cappilleries. Magic's body was working hard to sustain and heal that leg when there was absolutely no chance of that ever happening. The hope is now all that healing energy will be transferred to other parts of his body. The longer that damaged leg remained the greater the chance of infection or gangreen setting in. He's at a much better place in his overall recovery process now due to the amputation.

Magic will be monitored closely tomorrow and his liver function values will once again be tested. If all looks good, the hope is the repair of the pelvis can take place on Friday. That surgery will take much longer than the amputation today and will be more involved, so it is important that Magic be as healthy and strong as possible.

05/25/2009: It happened in an instant - he ran across the street and was hit by a car. The car never stopped. He has no collar, no identification, no microchip - and no one has come looking for him. Luckily for him, someone saw him get hit and called the local animal warden. The warden called a local rescue group who came and picked up the little Cairn and immediately took him to the vet to be treated for shock and pain.

The x-rays show his right leg that was shattered and fractured in multiple places and has severe nerve damage that will need to be amputated. His pelvis on the left side has 4 fractures and will need to be plated and pinned. He's estimated to be 3-4 years old.

If you can help Col. Potter find the financial resources, in these tough economic times, to pull off another miracle for this young Cairn who finds himself in dire straits please click on the Guardian Angel Link above.

05/24/2009: Landon is a shy, but sweet boy who wags his tail every time you talk to him. Living with Rottweilers proves to be no problem for him and indeed, he enjoys them. Slowly but surely he's becoming confident enough to even begin playing with them! Landon is housebroken and he is fine with children. Because of his time in a commercial breeding facility, Landon is most comfortable in his crate, though he can be coaxed out with little problem. He loves to eat and has a good disposition with other dogs and people while eating. Landon is looking for a home who will continue to coax him out of his shell, and provide the love that he has been waiting for!

UPDATE 5/31/09: Warm weather is here and I love to be outside. I bark just for joy sometimes. Life is good. Foster Mom has a super big squirt bottle now, and I know that too many barks and I get wet! I try to contain myself, and she says I am doing much better. I have discovered digging and smile the whole time! Foster Sister loves it when I stalk her and then pounce on her head! Really, she is so happy when that happens. She barks at me then chases me back and forth across the yard. I don't like the pool Foster Mom sets out - but I will take a drink from it. My least favorite thing in the spring are bugs! I chase and chomp and bark at them! No bees allowed in my yard. And I have a new friend - an elderly black lab. She is sweet. I used to bark like crazy at her when I would see her outside my yard, but I met her nose to nose, and I showed her I liked her by wagging my little stubby tail. She was smitten with my charm. I play bowed a bunch of times, and she bowed back! It was fun. I need my own forever family though, that would really put a big smile on my face!

UPDATE 4/21/09: A hunting we will go, a hunting we will go, heigh ho, the dairy-o, a hunting we will go! A hunting we will go, a hunting we will go, we'll catch a mouse and get him outta the house, and then we'll let him go! There's a mouse in my house, and I am watching and waiting, waiting and watching. I will get that mouse. I can't understand how a mouse would dare come in here with three terriers! But he dares. I am on alert; it seems all by myself! Foster brother hunts with me for about ten minutes, and then goes back to his bed (that's what happens when you are old). Foster sister doesn't want to get her princess paws dirty, so she pretends there isn't a mouse here. Me, I am determined. I WILL get him.

Foster Mom here: Jamison has a very high prey drive, as you can see! He is determined no bird or four legged creature will be in his territory. Understanding and respect for his fears will always be a part of living with Jamison. But he continues to make progress in his foster home, slow baby steps that show signs he is learning that he is safe and will not be hurt.

UPDATE 3/19/09: Spring is here, and I am loving it! Birds and squirrels are back, and I am letting them know that they do not belong in my yard. What fun it is to run and chase them! One day I will catch one, that's a promise. I've been busy over the past few weeks. I had a mission: teach that crotchety old foster brother how to PLAY. And guess what - my work paid off! He will play with me now. Foster Mom and Dad can hardly believe their eyes, he never plays. Now I have two buddies to play with, and what fun we have! I continue to steal things so that I can TRADE for Cheerios, but I suspect they are on to my antics. I am finding less and less to steal! Sometimes I give up the stolen socks, even if they don't give me treats, just because they ask, and I am such a good boy. I make them proud with how far I have come in my time here. They tell me they've never met such a smart boy before me. I think they are right!

UPDATE 2/15/09: Are you looking for a loyal boy who is respectful, funny, well mannered, and smarter than most? Then I am your guy! I am devoted to my foster family, but I need my very own forever family, so I can shower them with loyalty and affection.

Remember my last update when I told you that I learned about "Trade"? Well, I am SO smart, that I now go looking for stuff to trade! I find goodies, and run right to Mom, and sit in front of her - "Um, Mom, Trade?" It's FUN! Do you have Cheerios at your house? Wanna Trade with me?

UPDATE 1/29/09: Jamison here: This foster family is great! They talk to me to let me know what I need to do - or not do! And I listen, better than the resident Cairns- which amuses foster Mom. My foster family understands that I get scared if I'm touched when I am sleepy, and they respect that by calling my name to wake me and get my attention. 'Cause a boy just doesn't like to be startled awake! I love to steal socks. Yum, they are tasty. But now, instead of running and hiding with them, I bring them right to foster Mom. Wanna know why? Cause I get Cheerios! TRADE! I can play that game. I don't have to growl or snarl to keep those socks, I can get better stuff by trading.

11/24/2008: Jamison has been in his foster home for three weeks. During that time, he has been a perfect gentleman. He is fully house trained, crate trained, and well mannered. He sits patiently for his treats, and his turn to be leashed for walks. We walk about 2 miles each day, as Jamison needs the exercise and mental stimulation a walk provides. He is wonderful on lead, not pulling unless he sees squirrels. Jamison is trying his best to get the resident Cairns to play with him, and he is patient when they ignore him. He can be barky, often running and barking in the yard just for the sheer joy of it! He is a great 'watch' dog, alerting us to noises he hears that are unusual, but quiets down fairly quickly when asked. Jamison suffered some abuse in his original home, and does show signs of fear from that time. With careful handling, and being aware of his triggers, he does very well. He responds quickly to voice commands, which makes correction very easy and also allows him to feel safe and not threatened by physical handling. Jamison entertains himself with toys, talking to them, throwing them up in the air, and stalking them. He loves a good game of tug! Jamison is very smart, eager to please, and a joy to have here.

06/26/2009: Reef was turned into a shelter by an owner who probably didn't understand the breed enough to know a cute little Cairn terrier puppy needs guidance and training just like any other dog. He appears to be perfectly housetrained, but he wanted to run the show when he first arrived. Foster Dad is making sure he understands who is the alpha figure in his foster home, and in only 5 days he's shown substantial improvement. Keenly observant, he watches our every action and he puts together the time frame and events that lead up to leaving the house - or getting ready for bed. He really tested the rules the first 4 days, but he's relaxed with guidelines and limits, and follows directions more willingly. He's still a challenge outside though. He weighs the value of the treat being offered (positive reinforcement) with what is being asked of him. He seems to enjoy his time in the backyard and long walks provide the exercise he needs, and make him calm and more obedient. Because he enjoys it outdoors so much, it takes a truly special treat to convince him to come toward the house so we can bring him indoors. I'm seeing improvement each day but there is still a ways to go when outside. Buddy will require an owner who is not afraid to take charge and remain consistent, firm and continue positive training, which he may never have had. He would do best in a calm home with an owner who is willing to take long walks and will continue his guidance and training. Reef isn't quite ready for adoption, but check back often. We think this boy will make good progress in the weeks to come.

UPDATE 6/3/09: I am such a happy boy! Foster mom was reading an e-mail to me from my forever mom! I cannot wait to meet her. She sounds just perfect for me. I love to cuddle and lay by my foster mom's feet. Of course I also like to put my head between her ankles when she is sewing. This has caused a few scary moments for foster mom when she has almost tripped on me! But gee, I just have to keep her protected! And it sounds like my forever mom is looking for a guy like me to help her with all of this. She needs a brave boy who is manly enough to cuddle, but still likes to make sure she is all right when we are not cuddling! That's me! Thank you again Colonel Potter! I am so ready for my forever home!

UPDATE 5/16/09: Oh dear, foster mom has this look in her eyes that can only mean one thing. She has the grooming table out on the back porch. Now mind you, I am very good and very patient with her, but I would much rather be soaking up rays, not getting groomed or getting my nails clipped! And gee, I just started getting good at rubbing the dirt all over myself and she thinks she has to keep me clean. Just the other day, foster mom was on the phone with a lady who had a very nice voice, and I think I am gonna meet her soon. I am very excited about this! I think I have a forever home of my very own! Thank you Col. Potter!

Foster mom here: Colonel has done so much blossoming in the last month. It's so hard to believe he is the same little boy that came to me in September. He is such a gentleman – and with the most charming personality. I am excited that he will be soon going to his forever home! He'll have his forever mom wrapped around his little paws in no time!

UPDATE 5/3/09: Hello, I am getting braver every day! I am also becoming very curious about what is going on around me. Foster mom thinks I am silly cause I like to try and roll around in the dirt. I also love to lay in the warm sunshine and gee, foster mom has some pretty good tasting grass here! I have been eating a bite or two of it and mmm mmmm mmmmmmm, it tastes really good! I also love to run really fast first thing in the morning when I go outside! That is because I am so happy! I love the morning time!

Colonel is really beginning to bloom. And he is getting better about keeping his bellyband dry. He will go 3 and sometimes 4 hours with a dry band. He does lots better when I am home with him, but a girls gotta work! Colonel is so ready for a forever home. And he loves girl dogs! He does very well with my grandchildren and as long as kids are gentle with him, he is their slave! Are you looking for a cute little boy with one perky ear? Then Colonel's your boy!

UPDATE 4/18/09: Colonel seems to get more and more sure of himself every day! The weather has been so nice. He was watching my little Bailey rolling in a dirt patch. And what do you know, he decided to try this! He cannot roll all the way over but boy, he sure had himself a blast rubbing all over in the dirt! And he is getting a lot braver when he wants attention. He will nudge my hands off the keyboard as if to say "Gee foster mom, give me some scritches"! He has come a long, long way from his beginnings. I get so excited every time he does something new. He really wants someone he can love and trust. Are you that person? Then Colonel is looking for you!

UPDATE 3/26/09: Colonel has come a long way since his first days here. He can walk and run his funny lope in the yard now. He is on Syn Flex for joints and muscles due to his long days being crated in the commercial breeding facility. When Colonel first came to me, he was afraid of his own shadow. Not any more! Yes, he is afraid of new people until he gets to know them, but once he does he is okay. He is a very shy, quiet little boy who just wants to be reassured that he is loved. He likes to be by his person. Colonel loves to lay in the sun and he loves my female dogs. He does not do so well with other males. I believe he feels threatened by them. Colonel is not one to play with toys. But he does enjoy knowing they are around! This boy had such a terrible beginning to his life. He is now looking for a family who will be there for him and show him how love and kindness will be his for forever! If you are that home, he is waiting for YOU!

UPDATE: 3/8/09: Colonel here! It's been so nice and warm here at foster Mom's! I love to be outside laying in the green grass and soaking up the rays. I never got to do that till I came here! My foster sister loves to try to get me to roll around in the dirt with her. Now, I am just too dignified for that - unless foster Mom is in the house! Then I will take a little roll just for fun.

Colonel loves to be outside. Actually, he really likes to be wherever his people are, or with my female Cairn, Bailey. He is not one to play with toys, but he loves to put his paws ever so gently on my lap, so I can skritch his belly. Colonel is a sweet and gentle soul who just wants to enjoy the simple things in life. Sunshine, good food, and love from his people. If that fits your family, put in your application for this special man.

UPDATE 2/18/09: Hi, in case you do not know it, I am still available for a forever home. I am a bit shy, but that does not mean I don't want you to fill out that application for me. I just love skritches, and lying next to you on the couch. I also love to have a good romp in the yard and really love soaking up the warm sunshine. I don't really play with toys, but love to be involved in whatever you might be doing. It takes me a while to get used to new folks, but if you give me a bit of time, I am a real love bug!

UPDATE 1/31/09: Colonel is becoming more settled, and he is clearly more comfortable around other people, especially women. He also is in love with my little female Cairn, Bailey. Colonel does not like any of the males that reside here (competition?) but he loves the girls! A home without other male dogs would probably also curtail the marking. He is really looking for someone who is willing to help him overcome the rest of his fears. He is very shy and although this little boy is beginning to bloom, he truly wants a forever home where he can blossom into the Cairn he is supposed to be. Are you looking for a forever Valentine? Colonel would love to be yours!

UPDATE 1/18/09 : I have to write fast as fosser mom seems to be in a real hurry today! I'm doing really good! I'm doing more of my duties outside, but I still likes to make sure everyone knows I live here, and so I still mark on the furniture when fosser mom doesn't see!

My daughter came over yesterday to spend the day. Colonel went right up to her for attention. That is a first for him. He is not as shy around new people as he used to be. Colonel is also making progress on his potty training, but he is right! We still have some marking issues. He doesn't like wearing a belly band so the marking is getting better, but not completely stopped. A home without other male dogs would be best for him. This little guy has more spring in his step and he is so ready for someone to take him in and teach him about love and safety. If you would like to be the one to watch him flower into a true sweet Cairn boy, fill out your application for him.

UPDATE 1/3/08: I made a song so I would get a forever family for Christmas. It didn't happen, but Santee Paws says good things happen if'n I just wait awhile! I am learning to let fosser mom rub my belly! An I like to put my paws on her leg while she is writing on the computer! And I just love to lay in the sunshine an soak up the rays! I sit out in the yard with my fosser sisser, or sometimes we just lay down in the yard in the sun!

Foster Mom here: My heart feels so full when he does something new! He is still afraid of strangers and has to really get to know someone before he will not hide in fear. But he is doing better every day. He's just waiting for a forever home now and hoping one will find him soon. He does love his foster sister and would do well with a girl doggy or as an only boy. If you have room in your heart to watch this little man keep blooming, please fill out an application for Colonel!

UPDATE 12/18: I'z dreamin' of a Whiiiite Christmas, with lots of snow out in the yard!
An a girl-dog to play with, an a mom an dad to stay with! I'z lookin' very hard.
I'z dreamin' of a new famblee, and a home that is my very own!
So if you reed this, an you can du this, then pleaze 'dopt me for yer own! - Merry Christmas everyone!

Colonel is making such great strides every week! He now puts his paws up on my leg so he can ask for scritches. And he wags his tail and does a happy dance when I walk in the door. He is curled up at my feet as I am writing this. Now, he is not completely housebroken, but he sure is working hard to become that way. He is barking now when he wants to go outside and that is wonderful. This boy just wants lots of love and affection. He has found that these are the most important things in the world. Well, other than his kibble!

UPDATE 12/05: I am still here with my fosser mom, and I really like her and all, but isn't there someone out there who wants a shy little boy to love? I needs someone to help me with my fears. I'm afraid of people I don't know, and it takes me a while to warm up to them, but once I do, I give ALL my loving!

Foster mom here: Colonel is very shy, but he now trusts me, wags his tail and gets so excited when I walk in the door. This poor little guy has never had love and he is a work in progress. He still has fears to overcome, but if you have patience, time, and terrier tenacity, the payoff will be priceless!

UPDATE 11/16: It's me, the Colonel. I'm being a very good boy. I love good food - an fosser mom dishes out plenty of that here! I'm also learning to go outside because that's where the bathroom for dogs is at this house! And I love to zoom with my fosser sisser in the back yard.

Foster mom here: Colonel comes out of his shell a little bit more every day. He did a small tail wag just the other day. It was a first - and it had me crying. This boy has been without love and kindness for so long, he is not sure if he should accept it or not. He does love to zoom all over the yard with his foster sister and that is a source of joy for him. He needs a family that has lots of experience and tons of extra love to help him learn that we are here to help him enjoy his freedom.

UPDATE 11/2: Colonel is doing better and better. He still shies away from strangers, but he is getting very comfortable with me. I am doing Tellington Touch with him every day for 10 to 20 minutes a day. It really seems to be helping with his trust issues. Colonel is looking for someone who will take the time to bring out his gentle personality.

UPDATE 10/18: I have a problem. Fosser mom is giving some of my food to this new kid an I'm afraid that I could starve to death! Now fosser mom says she is not doing this. I sure hope my foreber fambly is reading this and can get me out of here before my fosser mom runs out of food!

Colonel is such a silly boy! We will not run out of food here. He is starting to explore more and is coming to me more for pats and skritches. He is not comfortable sitting on a lap, but has decided it's nice to be on the couch. I see more and more trust in him every single day. Colonel wants love so badly, but just isn't sure whether or not it is safe to accept it. He needs a forever family who will have the patience and understanding to help him realize that not all humans are bad. If you are that family, Colonel desperately wants to be yours!

UPDATE 10/03: Shhhhhh, its me. Fosser mom doesn't know I'm on her computer. I'm really beginning to like it here! I get good food an there's lots of gurls to play with! I gets to have mackerel and salmon an sweet taters, and all kinds of good treats!

Colonel is doing a lot better! He is walking well and running with the pack! His housebreaking is going a little bit slow but it is steady. We are having less accidents. Colonel is also becoming more trusting. He will come up to me to get scritches and will also come lay by my feet! Colonel loves my little girl Cairn and would really do fantastic with his very own sister! If you want a gentle boy with the sweetest, most soulful brown eyes, look at Colonel's pictures or his video and let him melt your heart!

UPDATE 9/20: I'm beginning to like my new home. These humans sure are weird though! They keep tryin' to pet me an love on me. I'm not sure about that. But sometimes I will go up to that human an sniff her ankle or her hand. She says she is my foster mom. I just don't understand all this, but I 'spect these changes are good.

Colonel is very shy and still a bit fearful. He will come up to me if I am doing something and not paying attention to him. I can even pet him at those times. This boy is continuing to make baby steps in the trust department. I cannot wait to see him bloom. He is walking a lot better now. The joint supplements are starting to help him. He is not ready for adoption yet, but keep watching.

09/04/2008: Hello, I have just found out what freedom is. I am very afraid of my foster Mom right now, even though she is very good to me. I do like the great food I am getting every morning and evening. I am not used to that! I am learning how to walk around and do enjoy my foster brothers and sisters.

Foster Mom: Colonel arrived about two weeks ago. He is very shy and startles easily. We are working on building up his muscles so that he can take longer walks. He cannot run very well and gets tired quite easily. Good food, lots of love and patience, and a gentle and gradually increasing exercise routine will help this man become the Cairn he was meant to be. He is not ready for adoption yet, but give him some time and someone will be very lucky to get this gentle soul for their very own! Click here for a slideshow of Colonel: tinyurl.com/5sowrd

UPDATE 6/29/09: Birdy is doing just fabulous! She recently mastered going up and down the stairs. At first she was a chicken about it but now she's eager to show off her new skill. We're also working on 'Sit'. She loves to learn, and of course treats and lots of praise helps with this endeavor. When Foster Mom and Dad walk in the door Birdy gets SO excited. She has a little toy bear that she holds in her mouth and paces around with her tail wagging so that her entire body wiggles. It is so sweet to see her happy. She has a great temperament and just wants to be near people. Our neighbors think she is great little dog and everyone coos over how adorable she is. She is getting spayed today and will be on the mend for a short time, but Birdy will be ready for adoption very soon!

06/15/2009: Hello there! My name is Birdy. I love the front of my front legs scratched. I will pin your hand exactly where I want it when you get to the good spot. Scratches are the best! I love to fetch my ball and I'll drop it for you - over and over again. Foster Mom says it looks like I'm playing soccer the way I 'kick' the ball around. I love to go for walks and I'm fully leash trained. I'm also potty trained and crate trained too! I love people! When you first pick me up it takes a second for me to relax - then I melt into your arms. I like laps. I am also a very pretty color. You should see me show off when I get out of my bath. I know I look good!

Foster Mom thinks I should be in a home where I'm the only pet. I have not been spayed yet but we'll get that taken care of soon. I'm super happy and sweet 99% of the time but sometimes when my foster brother gets excited I go after him. When I get fixed Foster Mom hopes it will be much better, but she says I definitely need someone who understands terriers and only wants one dog. Other than that, I'm really just a good little girl. I'm almost ready to go to my forever home so keep checking back. Woof, Birdy

UPDATE 5/30/09: Miss Cokie is still learning her way around this very big world. She was very brave when she attended a rally today called "The Bark Heard Around the World". She spent most of the day in the arms of Col. Potter members who are not her foster mommy. She did very well and was even spotted relaxing after a while, which is amazing given how busy and loud everything was. Cokie has learned to zoom in the back yard as long as I'm not looking at her, and she is still quite shy about coming into the house and flattens to the ground when I approach. On the other hand, she is eating much better and has learned to appreciate cookies, though not directly from my hands. Cokie is quite a cuddler and will fall asleep in my arms. She has proven to be 99% housebroken, but we're not working on walking on a leash yet. She is one stunning girl and truly a sweetheart who would love to be the beloved girl for anyone willing to show her the persistent patience she needs.

05/11/2009: Cokie is named after the aunt of a beloved Col. Potter member. I hope she was a sweet, smart and feisty woman, because that's what her namesake is! Don't believe that she's the sweet innocent she'd like you to believe. Cokie came from a life in a commercial breeding facility, and is so glad to be free. She is a healthy girl now that she's been spayed and an infection is gone, HW negative and up to date on all vaccinations. She currently weighs 18 lbs, but is underweight. Cokie is a tall, lanky Cairn girlie with an amazing colored coat. The ideal home for her would be an only dog, or with another laid back boy dog, because she's clearly used to being the queen bee. Cokie needs some time and additional consistent expectations to build her confidence without letting her become overly spoiled. She is super attentive to her person, so she would be highly trainable and is an excellent candidate for any number of dog activities. Hurry and get your application in for this little tyke because she's going to be scooped up fast!

UPDATE 6/20/09: Well, Countess has been in her foster home for 2 weeks and is doing great! She loves her 2 foster sisters. She has really come out of her shell and is seeking attention by coming over and giving me that look as if to say, "Oh, please pet me; you know you want to". She is so cute when she walks because she sort of looks like she is tiptoeing. Countess listens very well when told "no". She got her very own blankie from Auntie Lynne but still prefers to go and steal her sisters' and carry them through the house until she finds the perfect spot to put them - she is such a silly dog. She was caught running through the house with my son's boxers the other day, and oh, she was having great fun. You better hurry up and fill out an application on this little girl because I am sure she will find her forever home soon. Just make sure and hide your boxers! Countess here: I did like my foster mom until she told everyone about the boxer incident. Geesh, how embarrassing is that? Foster mom says I am beautiful and a good girl all the time. I love my 2 foster sisters and their blankies too. Oh, and I LOVE food and treats. Foster mom says I walk on my tiptoes, which is so not true; I walk like a princess! Geesh, she needs to start getting things straight. All I know is I would REALLY love to find my forever home so I can get spoiled because I so deserve it.

06/14/2009: This beautiful girl Countess, came to us by way of a commercial breeding facility. She has never known what love is and had to give birth to multiple litters of puppies. Well now, thanks to Col. Potter this little girl doesn't have to worry about that any more. She has been vetted and spayed and loves her freedom. She is not hyper at all but likes to zoom around, then she will take a little nap. She is learning what toys are too. She will go potty outside every time when taken out every 3 hours, yet still has some training to do on the leash. She sleeps in her crate quietly and is excited when morning comes so she can go explore outside. Countess is gorgeous, with a coat of black and silver, and a bronze undercoat. She has the most beautiful, huge eyes. She overcomes her fears quickly, as long as you show her that she won't be hurt by what scares her. So, if you think you can help this little girl turn into the Cairn princess she longs to be, you better hurry and fill out an application because I know she will find her castle soon!

Countess here: Boy, this is all new to me. I get food and water anytime I like and people pet me and tell me I am beautiful. I didn't believe it until foster mommy showed me my eyes in this mirror thing. I have to admit that I am one good-looking girl. I want a family of my own though. I promise I will love you forever, as long as you treat me like a princess!

UPDATE 6/4/09: Hello everyone! Muffet here with a quick update for you. Foster mom tells me every day how proud she is of me because of all that I have learned in such a short time. I can now go down stairs - well, maybe not as gracefully as my foster sister but I can jump the last couple onto the ground. I am doing very well in the potty training department since foster mom and dad take me out regularly. What do I love? Just about everything - my meals, treats, napping in my doggie bed, stuffie toys, Nylabones, rope toys, foster mom and dad and playing, wrestling and zooming with my foster siblings! I also enjoy a good cuddle at night and fall asleep in foster mom or dad's arms. According to foster mom, I am still a "work in progress" with leash walking but at least I'm not afraid of the leash. I do get nervous at times but for the most part, I've become a very happy, loving - and lovable - Cairn princess.

05/25/2009: Our foster girl Muffet
Lays on her tuffet (aka her doggie bed)
Napping or eating her treats.
She's such a real cutie
A wheaten haired beauty
From her head right on down to her feets!

While not exactly the original Mother Goose rhyme, this one is more fitting for our newest foster girl. Muffet is a very sweet, but shy, young girl who came to us from a breeding facility. She is ready to leave a life of having puppies behind her, and with the help of her foster siblings, is off to a very good start! Muffet is at her happiest when out in the yard running with the resident dogs - she loves to engage them in play. After only a couple of days, Muffet learned how to go up the stairs from the back yard into the house; next she needs to learn how to go down them. She is getting braver as each day goes by and will now wander throughout the entire first floor of our home, checking out all the new sights. Muffet has begun to carry stuffed toys around in her mouth and will then lay down with them, trying to de-stuff them. She enjoys a good cuddle at night when we watch TV and loves to have her head rubbed behind her ears. Muffet stays quietly in her exercise pen when we go out, and she sleeps quietly in her crate all night. We are working with Muffet on her potty training and leash walking. She is up to date with her shots, has been spayed and has had her teeth cleaned. Muffet is not quite ready for adoption since she's only been with us for a week but check back soon for more updates.

06/06/2009: Kelci is a very sweet and affectionate, though somewhat skittish, one-year-old gray brindle. She was brought to a high-kill shelter by her owner with the reason being a neighbor’s dog was marking her through the fence! That shelter only keeps dogs for 72 hours and then they are gassed, which occurs three times a day at this shelter.

But Kelci was blessed with a rescue angel; a woman who does all-breed rescue saw Kelci at the shelter and got in touch with Col. Potter (CP). She pulled Kelci from the shelter for CP, gave her a much-needed bath, and then turned her over to a CP volunteer. Kelci has been introduced to an eight-month-old puppy in the foster home and the two of them are having a ball together. They wrestle and zoom, zoom, zoom around the backyard. She loves to fetch the tennis ball, but hasn’t yet grasped the concept of bringing it back. When she is in the exercise pen indoors, she is able to entertain herself. She will take a toy, toss it in the air, and attack it when it lands. She does the same with the tennis ball and has actually thrown it out of the x-pen a couple of times. Initially, Kelci fought going into her crate, but in only a week she has already gotten much better (thanks to treats). Kelci is not totally housebroken, but is doing very well. No accidents the last couple of days. She is ready to be adopted and would do well in a home with another young dog to play with. I don’t think she will be with us very long, so if you are interested, put your application in now!

UPDATE 6/24/09: We're still working to bring out Moreau's "inner Cairn" and she IS making progress. She will now put her paws up on my chair and ask to be picked up occasionally. She likes to cuddle in my lap and will relax and snooze as long as I am willing to stay seated. She really likes our male Cairn, Gilly, and is now accepting of our female Cairn, Janna. She thinks Gilly is her boyfriend and they do some nuzzling and some play biting with happily wagging tails. Other than this play with Gilly her tail still stays down. Play with toys is still very limited and she's still fearful of foster dad. She is enjoying walks in our park as long as there aren't too many people around. She's not happy at all when there are ball games and lots of noisy crowds yelling. Her new photos show that she is beginning to be a nice shaggy little girl.

UPDATE 5/14/09: Moreau is showing more baby steps of progress toward becoming a great little Cairn girl. She is still not able to walk to the door to go outside or to the kitchen to get her meals. But she is able to come in the house from outside. She is also managing to walk from the kitchen to her safe spot in the living room rather than running. That is, unless foster papa is around and then she may run to get past him quickly. We had a big step forward this morning when Morrie was able to eat her breakfast (foster mom sitting on the floor holding her bowl) with foster papa in the kitchen. She had been too nervous to eat with him in the kitchen even though he's very gentle and kind to her. She is very happy that there are no new photos as foster mom broke the camera. I hope to have it repaired soon so we can get new photos of this little beauty.

UPDATE 4/16/09: Miss Moreau has had all her long, less than healthy hair stripped off so she's a shorthaired little girl right now. She will grow a fresh, healthy coat now that she's eating high quality foods. She's making a little progress at learning to live in a house, and now comes out of her crate on her own. I carry her outside and then she is able to go off the patio and into the dog run to go potty. I'm working with her to help her walk back into the house by herself. Moreau is still nervous out of her crate so I put her in for a rest several times a day. She gives toys a couple of minutes' attention when I put them out but then never goes back to them. She seems to enjoy short walks around our yard to explore, although rainy days have made those opportunities few in number. Moreau is beginning to bloom like the fragile spring flowers and I expect her to continue to make progress towards becoming a beautiful flower one day.

04/02/2009: Hello, My name is Moreau, I'm not quite 2 ½ years old, and I'm one of the Missouri River Kids. I am not yet ready for adoption as I haven't been in my foster home long enough. Foster Mom says it may be a while longer as I'm still pretty scared, and I need to put on a little weight. I *am* making progress though, at becoming a real Cairn with Cairnitude. It only took me two days after arrival to learn to do my potty stuff outside like the other kids here. Foster Mom is very impressed! I spent some time with a vet and am spayed, up to date on all my vaccinations, and on heartworm medicine. Foster Mom says I am a beautiful and very sweet little girl. She says my red gold coat will wow the world but I just want to wow the person or family who wants to love me forever. Watch this space for updates, but if you look at my picture and think you want me to come live with you – better get that application in now! Foster Mom has nicknamed me Morrie, but you need to put Moreau on that application. Well, back to rolling around in my crate until my forever family finds me!

06/21/2009: This busy little boy is a GREAT little furkid. He goes up and down stairs, in and out doors, loves to go for walks, ride in the car and loves to play or cuddle with you. He has big soulful eyes that just grab you. His potty skills need some work, but I think he will have it down pretty quickly. He thinks everything is a toy if it is within his reach. We are working on teaching "his toys/not his toys" game. He made himself at home immediately and thinks this new world he has been thrown into is terrific. If you are looking for a wonderful companion, stop here - this is the one!

UPDATE 6/5/09: We have had a great week! Our little Brandau is making wonderful progress. She is starting to wee-wee on the dirt. But she still will poo on the concrete. With more time I think she'll learn to go in the grass. She's getting closer to it! We are learning to go down the stairs. She is on the 6th step from the bottom, and she is comfortable with that. We'll increase a step every 3-4 days or so. The top is still a long way up. But we're gonna get to the bottom by ourselves one of these days. I don't think she's ever been on steps. She didn't seem to know how to step down. She's learning she can.

She has been silly this week. When we play outside, she'll be running around. She'll prance on the ball, crouch down then spring forward. She drags the toys around outside and runs with them. It's hilarious watching her. She's like a puppy, enjoying the carefree lifestyle she never had. I was in the pool splashing Lil' Girl (a resident Cairn) and Brandau wanted to get in on the action. She went running into the house via the doggy door (she mastered that quickly), but my husband came out and asked if she had been swimming because she went in and ran around like crazy - like they do after a bath - and ran right into his legs! "She's not very coordinated is she?" he asked. I replied, "She's never had the chance to really run around before." Sad but true. She's getting her coordination just fine. He probably bumped into her :) Brandau is WONDERFUL. And someday she's going to make a SUPER pet for just the right home. Probably sooner than foster Mom wants. Sigh.

05/30/2009: EXTRA, EXTRA, READ ALL ABOUT HER - Brandau that is. A happy-go-lucky li'l girl considering the fact she is retired at the tender age of 6 from a breeding facility. You would never know it when you meet her. She is spayed and current on all her vaccinations. I have had her in my home for 7 days now. Let me tell you that I am the lucky one. She is an absolute sweetheart! She is still a little shy. Wouldn't we all be if we had her past? She amazes me every day as she blossoms and overcomes her fears. I took her to the vet on Tuesday to have her stitches removed, and she was so well mannered, staying right by my side, her tail wagging the whole time. She walks well in her harness with gentle coaxing, but she does not care for the leash to be attached to her collar. Brandau is crate trained and we're working on potty training. She isn't used to grass under her feet and does not know that is where to do her 'business'. She has always been on concrete so doesn't know any other place to go potty, so we're working on that. I showed her our toy box the 2nd day she was here. And by gosh, about 15 seconds later when I had my back turned, if she didn't get out one of the toys and start playing with it, shaking it like Cairns do! She has learned how to go up the stairs but won't come down them yet. I gave her a much needed bath. I thought, "Oh Boy, here we go; this oughta be fun". She didn't put up a struggle or even try to get out of the tub. She just stood there while I bathed her. Her hair is cut really short so I didn't have to use the blow dryer on her. I'm looking forward to it growing out so I can teach her that grooming can be a relaxing experience. She gets along well with my 2 resident Cairns and my 2 other foster Cairns. They haven't really played together yet, but she'll play by herself with a toy. She loves to have her belly rubbed and in return gives me countless kisses. I'm just amazed at how sweet spirited and joyful she is. Brandau is absolutely a little doll!

UPDATE 6/10/09 : Lord Randall Taylor continues to be a great houseguest. I must say that I wish my own dogs would take some lessons in manners from him! What a pleasure it is when they start barking up a storm and Lord Randall Taylor just looks up to me as if to say, “Pardon me, but I think there may be someone at the door.” He loves to cuddle and stay close to me but he is now brave enough to explore the backyard on his own. He is still a little shy when he first meets someone new, but if they are gentle and give him some space, he quickly comes around. He still loves to play Fetch and happily keeps himself entertained with his toys when he is feeling playful. And Lord Randall Taylor is so easy to take care of - especially now that he no longer needs to wear his belly band! With all these wonderful qualities, maybe this handsome gentleman will make just the right companion for you?

UPDATE 5/17/09: Hi everyone, Lord Randall Taylor here: I like my foster mom and everything, BUT she just doesn’t spend enough time with me! She thinks those other two dogs deserve attention, and even that cat of hers! I don’t ask for much. Just someone to be near me and play with me is all I’ll ask. Oh yeah - and a little lovin’ on me wouldn’t hurt either! Foster mom here: Lord Randall Taylor will make someone a wonderful friend. He is great company and quietly follows me wherever I go. What a smart guy he is, too! Going up and down stairs is no longer a problem for him and he even figured out how to use the dog door. His housetraining is going well as long as he is limited to just a couple of rooms, rather than having the run of the whole house. So if you want a calm, quiet dog that also likes to play, Lord Randall Taylor may be the dog for you!

UPDATE 5/4/09: Lord Randall Taylor is getting braver every day. He is a great guy who is so close to leaving his fears behind. He loves going on walks and will stop to look and listen when we come across a new sound or situation. Once he sees that there is nothing to fear, he is happy to continue along our way. We have met lots of people and dogs on our walks and he has not been aggressive at all. Lord Randall Taylor is undemanding and eager to bond with someone he can trust. He has given me kisses and his favorite spots are by my feet when I’m working at my desk or next to me on the couch. Although Lord Randall Taylor is a quiet and laid-back Cairn, he absolutely LOVES to play fetch and brings the ball back to us over and over. He is more interested in doing this than playing with my other Cairn. They do play together sometimes but it seems more like he is just playing with her because SHE wants to. He is such a good natured boy and would be happy in a house with or without other pets. The most important thing for Lord Randall Taylor is to have someone who he can love and be loved by. Are you the loving, patient, and understanding person who will help Lord Randall Taylor continue to grow in confidence? If so, you will be richly rewarded with lots of kisses and affection from this sweet, adoring boy. Fill out an application today as he is now ready to be adopted!

04/25/2009: Our new foster, Lord Randall Taylor, came to us from a commercial breeding facility one week ago. Although he has a fancy name, we have shortened it to "Taylor", this sweet boy loves being around us common folk. When Lord Randall Taylor first arrived, he was somewhat afraid and was a bit scared to come near me. But he wagged his tail a little to show me there was the spirit of a true Cairn in there longing to come out! By the next day, he would come closer to me but would skitter away before I could touch him, but Lord Randall Taylor has been getting braver every day. He has started following me around and loves to lie next to me on the couch. He has also learned to go up stairs and his house breaking is coming along great! Lord Randall Taylor is a rather quiet dog. He has only barked a couple of times and it sounds like he may have been debarked at the breeding facility. His bark is not very loud, and is low and hoarse sounding.

Although he is still a bit timid, the real Lord Randall Taylor has been coming out more and more. This guy loves to play! He has a favorite ball that he actually plays “Fetch” with. That’s right! He is now used to me enough that he brings the ball back to me and either drops it for me or lets me take it from him. He has played with my other Cairn and doesn’t mind our cat at all. And even though it seemed at first that Lord Randall Taylor had never been on a leash before, he is already a great walking partner who doesn’t even pull! What is this guy’s downside, you ask? I keep asking myself that same question! He has made huge strides since he arrived just one week ago so it won’t be long before Lord Randall Taylor is ready to be someone’s fun-loving and loyal companion.

He is a very handsome boy, and just the right weight for him at just under 19 pounds. He is a beautiful black brindle with a lovely brown undercoat. He recently had his teeth cleaned, was neutered, checked for heart worm, and had all his shots and medical issues taken care of, thanks to Colonel Potter! So keep your eye on Lord Randall Taylor - he will be ready for adoption soon!

UPDATE 6/17/09: What do you say to a little senior lady who does not realize they are a senior? SLOWDOWN! This lady is gonna be around for a long time if she has her way. Aggie loves to walk, play, and tumble with her toys. She literally picks up stuffed animals and throws them around. She is quite vocal but stays completely quiet when in her crate for the night. Her potty habits are flawless and she always comes to us when we call her. She would make a perfect "daily stroll" companion as she is very good on the leash. It would not take Aggie long at all to settle into a Forever Home - she loves people!

UPDATE 5/10/09: Aggie definitely does not act her age. She loves to play with her toys, romping around the kitchen tirelessly. She also loves to go for walks and is excellent on the leash. Aggie would fit best into a mature, "Aggie only" home. She is quite pretty and listens intently to all commands, turning her head from side to side when you speak to her. I have never met a more vocal Cairn; she even talks to herself sometimes! Please consider her for your very own as she still has a lot to offer the right home.

UPDATE 4/17/09: Aggie has now settled in PA and seems to be doing well. She loves the toy box and long walks down our country road. Her playfulness certainly belies her age. Aggie is the most vocal Cairn I have ever met. She talks when you take her out of her crate in the morning and when she knows you are leashing her for a walk. Aggie does not like our resident cat however, and will bark at our neighbor's dog. Housebreaking is no issue and she has perfect manners during mealtime. She does like to give a little growl when things don't go her way but she's improving with this behavior. She would do best as a Senior Princess for someone who will give her 100% of their attention. If you are looking for someone to get you outside and take lovely strolls, then Aggie is right for you!

UPDATE 3/2/09: Aggie Mae has grudgingly learned to co-exist with the resident Cairns, but would really prefer to have her own personal servants. She is so perfectly housebroken that she may be left uncrated at night to sleep in her favorite chair, but we have been crating her anyway. She gives a growl of displeasure when we pick her up to tuck her in, but once in her crate Aggie Mae is quiet all night.

02/12/2009: Aggie Mae is a Cairn princess who must find a new kingdom to rule. A new baby entered her previous abode and she was unable to learn to co-exist peaceably. She is one smart (if somewhat opinionated) Cairn. She knows many commands and some hand signals to go with them. Her potty manners are impeccable as soon as she learns the proper door to use and her interest in toys belies her senior status. Walks and ball playing are a joy to her. A terrier savvy adult home that understands the strong will and feisty nature of these dogs will be the perfect match for this darling little lady.

05/26/2009: We are very honored to introduce Twister. He is a young 8-year old neutered Cairn who is currently updated on all his shots. This little guy LOVES to play fetch/ball. He’s a very smart Cairn. He will drop the ball right at your feet or will roll it with his nose until the ball touches your feet. He then sits patiently waiting for you to throw it. He runs so fast to chase the ball that a lot of the time he will catch it in his mouth!

We have had no potty accidents with Twister. He will even whine when he wants to go outside. When you scratch his back (which he thoroughly enjoys), he will moan and show how appreciative he is to receive such love. Twister gets along with our resident dogs and shows no aggression with them (even when they try to steal his favorite toy – his ball). The resident dogs are all his size or smaller. He has even learned to accept our female Cairn as the pack leader. Twister loves to go for car rides and on walks around the neighborhood. However, we noticed that he does bark at larger dogs when walking past them. We are practicing the "watch me" command when we walk past these dogs and give him treats as he watches us.

Twister has a lot of love to give – wouldn’t you like to be the one to receive his wonderful Cairn love?

06/24/2009: Our sweet Baroness has been here for two weeks! We've nicknamed her Nessa Rose! When she first arrived, she was so pitiful. She didn't know how to run, or jump, or play. In the past two weeks she has learned not only to run and play, but to jump up onto the nearest lap for a little love! I have to say, she is the sweetest dog we have fostered. She gets along with everyone and she has learned how to play with the pack. She shows no aggression whatsoever - not even with her food. Her potty training is also going incredibly well. She doesn't like to go outside, but when we take her outside, she will go potty promptly. She would do well in a home with older children or other pets. Whoever decides to adopt her is going to be one lucky family!

Matchmaker Matchmaker, make me a match.
Find me a find, catch me a catch! (One very special loving family for Baroness please!)

UPDATE 9/15: Champlain has come a long way since his big move from Vermont to South Carolina . He loves attention and loves to play. Foster mom has a 4 month old female puppy who Champlain plays with quite a bit, and he relishes his role as big brother. He is also a very good boy when he meets people outside his home. The groomer and vet say he is very well behaved for them too! 'Good as gold' was the phrase used for his last visit to the groomer. Champlain is neutered, heartworm negative and up to date on his shots. All this boy needs is a place to call 'Home Sweet Home'.

UPDATE 6/25: Champlain has settled in very nicely. While he is still a one person dog, we are working on getting him to be more social and accept other people into "his" house. He loves playing in the yard and he will play chase with one or two of the other dogs on a regular basis, here in his new foster home. He is a very sweet boy, and always happy to see me.

UPDATE 5/15: Champlain's original foster Mom needed some surgery, so he has moved to South Carolina from Vermont. He's interacting with new foster dogs and enjoying a very different climate.
Check back for updates on this little transplant.

UPDATE 4/27: Spring is in full bloom, and Champlain is enjoying the grass again. He loves to put his head down and ZOOM around the yard, with his foster brothers and sisters in hot pursuit! Sammy is clearly grateful Col. Potter could rescue him and give him the chance to be free, safe and loved.

UPDATE 3/18: Champlain doesn't mind any kind of weather. Just yesterday he found a frozen toy and ripped it up out of the ice (not an easy task, by itself) and started playing with it. CLUNK, as the ice-covered toy hit the ice-covered ground. CLUNK, CLUNK, CLUNK - what fun! And then he started pushing it around with his nose. It slid over the ice and gave him a grand playtime. Unfortunately, Foster Mom got cold and made him come in.

UPDATE 12/15: Champlain, a.k.a "Sammy Boo" or "Clown Boy", is settling in very nicely and slowly learning to live in a "real" world with new people, cars, bicycles, and other large things that move. It can all be very frightening to a dog who's never had any socialization during his early years, but the more he experiences the world outside his foster home - the better he does. Not a day goes by when he doesn't make Foster Mom laugh - whether it's his prancing walk over to see what the cat is doing (and maybe a chance to bark at her!), or pushing his rubber chicken around the snow-covered lawn.

He is doing great on his house-training, rarely having accidents if he's let outside regularly. He is learning to be more polite in the company of the other dogs and actually loves playing Cairn wrestling games with his foster brother, Snickerdoodle.

UPDATE 8/12: Sammy has responded well to beginning clicker training with a behaviorist/trainer. And it's apparent he loves his foster Mom - and toys! He has an endearing little "clop" noise he makes with his teeth when he is excited and/or happy. He jumps for joy and frolics - and I mean REALLY frolics, as in dancing and prancing around, with any stuffie toy he finds. He tosses them to and fro and continues to enjoy "zooms" around the fenced in yard.

03/18/2007: Champlain was an owner/breeder surrender to a shelter in upstate New York on- you guessed it - Lake CHAMPLAIN! He's been in foster care for almost a year and a half, and although his foster mom loves him dearly, he needs a home with a dog savvy person who has the time to devote some training time each day to build his confidence, and diminish his fears.

UPDATE 9/16/08 : Pumuckl has been making progress! Baby steps, but he IS coming around. He is slowly learning how to trust people. He is still a nervous boy, but he's getting better. If he's crated or in an exercise-pen he barks at any stranger that walks up to him. But once the door opens, he just sits down quietly, as if to say “Couldn’t scare you off, eh?”

Pumuckl will require a home with someone who has the time and patience to continue to work with him. He is neutered, heartworm negative and up to date on his shots. All he wants is a calm, patient human to call his own.

11/11/2007: Because this little guy is a little imp and always up to some new tricks, he was named after a cartoon character on a TV series that plays in Munich, Germany. (See http://tinyurl.com/2n8kem ) Pumuckl is a sweet boy, but shy. He will bark to try and chase strangers away so he doesn't have to meet them. Once he meets them, he is fine as long foster Mom has him on leash. He thinks his leash is his security blanket and if somebody is holding on to the other end, he is fully protected. Pumuckl is up-to-date on his shots and neutered. He is mostly housetrained and is a very special little boy.

UPDATE 7/3/09: Ever wonder what a foster dog does all day? Here's Zander's day:tinyurl/nzh3.

UPDATE 6/22/09: Zander is feeling better and better all the time. He's far more interested in going outdoors to see what's going on in his wonderful new world. Take a look: tinyurl.com/ngm8e7.

UPDATE 6/18/09: Zander just got medical clearance today and he is READY for adoption! He was a sick boy when he arrived here in early May, and has taken 4 types of antibiotics to help clear a skin infection and some chest congestion. The vet believes that he aspirated some bacteria when he had his dental done. He had a nagging, severe cough for several weeks but now he only coughs occasionally and his x-ray showed only a slight residual shadow on one side with no sign of collapsing trachea or other serious reasons for the cough.

He is active, sleeps well, runs up and down stairs and keeps up with the resident dogs. He has some allergies and eats corn free/wheat free food. He is a sweet guy who continues to follow foster Mom around, plays with toys,loves to play with his foster sisters and has learned to come, sit, stay and stop at curbs. He had a face and nail trim at the groomer today and did very well face to face with the male groomer on the grooming table. He rode with our female vet to get his x-ray and she said he charmed everyone! His fur is sprouting everywhere and he is going to be a great looking red wheaten - his tail we're not so sure about! He is just yearning for his own forever home to love!

UPDATE 6/7/09: Here's a slideshow of Zander to show how much progress this little guy has made: tinyurl.com/klb38t

UPDATE 6/2/09: Zander is making very good progress with his comeback from poor condition and underweight. He was very weak and weighed just over 11 pounds when he came to us. He has been here for 4 weeks and has gained 5 pounds! We can still feel ribs AND see a waist. He is much stronger and figured out how to go up and down stairs by himself! Here is a video of him running around on our front porch: tinyurl.com/parxyp. He loves to play with toys and go on short walks with his foster sisters. His fur is coming in nicely and foster Mom gave him a little haircut to improve what foster Dad called his "Woodstock" look. He's taking medicine for a cough, but it is getting MUCH better and we hope he will be available for adoption soon.

05/19/2009: Zander was found as a stray. He has some hair loss from a skin infection. He was only 11 pounds when he came into Col. Potter but he has already gained nearly two pounds! Our vet estimates his age at approximately seven years old. He is a wheaten boy who has been neutered and is housebroken, and even knows to bark to go outside! He sleeps well in his crate, walks on a leash, and gets along well with his foster "sisters". Zander has been successfully "cat scanned" and is fine with our 3 indoor and 3 outdoor cats. He's also quite friendly to strangers. He has not met any young children yet, so we don't know how he responds to kids. Click here to see him at the dog park: tinyurl.com/pdumyd.

He loves to be petted and will come to foster Mom for attention. He likes to follow his foster Mom around the house and also enjoys going on walks with his "sisters" and playing with toys. He is a happy, friendly boy with a very sweet disposition. Zander is completing a course of antibiotics and medicated baths to help his coat come back in and he has a light fuzz and some fur sprouting everywhere! His "possum tail" makes him quite distinctive but as you can see, it is starting to fuzz up too. He is not yet available for adoption so please check back to follow his progress.

UPDATE 1/30/09: Marla is still making slow but steady progress on her weight issues. She is a very good girl who would love to find a forever home willing to work with her the rest of the way toward her weight goal. She has settled in nicely with my dogs and we have very few skirmishes. She is housebroken, sleeps quietly in her crate, and she is very lovable. Marla will make a wonderful addition to the right home!

12/10/2008: Marla has been with me for about a month now. She is a very loving girl. Marla has evidence of having some skin issues in the past, but she is healing and has had no new issues since being here. Poor Marla is extremely overweight. I have her on a strict diet, and she has adapted well despite obviously being used to eating whatever and whenever. Marla gets along fine with my herd (three Cairns , two bigger dogs). However, I feel that she would do best in a home with one or no other dogs. She craves attention and has contributed to a few skirmishes here. I don't mean to imply that she is aggressive or mean, but she is definitely not one to roll over and take anything. I am anxious to see what Marla is like once she gets the weight off. She will be so much more comfortable!

UPDATE 5/2/09: Hi everybody! Just checking in to let you know that I am still looking for my forever home. I have learned a bunch about being a real 'companion doggie'. I know I have more to learn and hope you will be the one to teach me. I am trying very hard and I watch everything my fur sisters do, then I try it. Wow, we do some pretty amazing things! Did you know I can snap a twig with my teeth? I didn't know that, but after watching I did it! Now, I am still scared of some things and I love it when foster mom holds me during thunder storms. Come to think of it, I just love it when foster mom holds me. But she has so many other dogs to hold that my turn does not come around often enough. Do you have a lap?

UPDATE 4/1/09: Please someone help me. My foster mom is crazy! She just keeps getting more and more foster dogs. I say ENOUGH! There are so many dogs here that I'm not getting the attention that a Cairn princess, such as my REGAL SELF, deserves. Now don't get me wrong, I like dogs and want a fur brother or sister of my very own - just not so many. Foster mom even said something about 'training'. I don't know what that is, but let me tell you that I am perfect just the way I am! Just ask me, I'll tell ya. I sleep all night by myself all quiet. I lay next to foster mom's feet all day while she types on this computer thingie and I even lay across her lap while she watches TV in the evening. I ask you, what more could she want? I do it all! So if you adopt me I promise I will learn to love you like I love foster mom - probably lots more! You just have to have a little patience. Remember all good things are worth waiting for. Click on the link and watch me play with my very first ball: tinyurl.com/cedgmk

UPDATE 2/4/09: Just a quick note to let everyone know that today I took a huge step towards trust. I think I surprised foster Mom and myself. I actually put my paws up on her to ask for attention - for the first time since leaving the breeding facility! I know it may not seem like much, but for me it is enormous and I had to share, please watch me do this amazing thing: http://tinyurl.com/bmo6hk

UPDATE 1/29/09: Mattie, as she is nicknamed in her foster home, is making tremendous strides in conquering her fears. She trusts us more and more each day. Mattie follows me around the house and loves to cuddle on the recliner at night. She has not had an accident in the house for two months now and has always kept her cage dry at night. Mattie enjoys play with one other resident dog here, but I think she would do well as an only dog also.

Think of her as a flower bud; a tightly closed but colorful bud. But our little girl is not going to blossom for just anyone. She will bloom for only the most patient and loving person. Are you that person? Here is a little video of your Matt: tinyurl.com/c5pdb2 Check back for further updates!

12/04/2008: Dear Mom, I'm sorry I have not written before now. I have been very, very busy - getting brave. You see I was hurt very badly in the past, and it has been hard building trust; but I am trying. I know I'm not pretty anymore because of my eye. But I still have one eye that works just fine. I will be able to see that you love me and will protect me. I am just a little bit of a girl, and I want to have someone to call my own. Are you the one? Please write back. Lubs, Fear (but they call me Mattie)

Foster Mom here: Our little girl Fear has had a difficult and long road. Her CP name is after a group that was given the name 'The Freedom Fighters', so she's (Freedom from) Fear but we've nicknamed her Mattie, after a relative who also lost an eye. This little girl has progressed so far that we think she is ready to move on to her forever home. She prefers women and would probably do well with another dog for companionship. She is up to date on her shots, spayed and just a little under weight. Watch this video of our little girl: http://tinyurl.com/5tm8wn. Her sweetness is apparent, and she's just waiting for one special person who's ready to love her forever.

05/31/2009: Alina was found on the streets and ended up in a shelter. Colonel Potter stepped in and saved this little girl, unfortunately not before she contracted heartworm. Alina is almost half way through her heartworm treatment so she is not quite ready for adoption. Alina loves everyone and can't wait to get out of her cage. She is a great little trooper staying quiet and calm all day and night. We think after her treatment there will be no stopping this beauty. You can see her memorizing every squirrel in the yard, mentally letting them know they are on short notice, for when she gets over her treatment they are dust! Be sure to check back often for updates and Alina's big day when she's ready for her forever home.

UPDATE 6/17/09: Foster mom: Mali is so ready to explore the world around her! She loves the rough and tumble play with other dogs. As she has opened up and shown us more of her personality, I can see that she also likes being the center of attention. She will snuggle up with us, and if we pay too much attention to the other dogs, she makes sure she can get in on the action! She is so inquisitive and REALLY fearless. Our little goat dog can even jump over a baby gate, so we are amazed every day at how athletic she is

Mali here: I can't believe how many different dogs there are in the world to play with! I like the ones my age that RUNRUNRUN and wrestle. Those that are older and won't play my games I mostly just bark at to try to motivate them. I've even tried to go off on my own through the door to find other dogs, but I know as soon as fosser mom calls me back I have to listen. I'm having a good time playing with toys and getting my head scratched. I can't wait to find out about my forever home!

UPDATE 5/19/09: Mali here! I am having a fantastic time playing with the other young pup here! I think that when I go to my forever home I would like to have one or more young brothers or sisters to play with. Foster Mom says I am HIGH ENERGY! I just know I love to run, jump, play, explore and occasionally cuddle.

Foster mom here: Mali is a lightening bolt surrounding an old soul and youthful heart. She can play hard enough to wear out all three of our dogs. We also have to watch her, as she wants to explore as much as possible. Watch her at open doors or fence openings! Luckily, she is not trying to escape, but just explore and comes RIGHT back when called. We say she is an old soul because she has such expression in her big brown eyes, and the small dark patch on her forehead makes her look deep in thought. She has truly stolen our hearts and those of every person she meets!

UPDATE 5/1/09: Mali here! Did you know my name is Thai for flower? Fosser dad spent time in Thailand and says it suits me. I open up like a flower with people and dogs. I am at a different foster home and this one has lots of dogs. One is a young guy and loves to run, play, run, play, run, play – then crash on the couch! I miss my other foster family and do enjoy this one, but I really want to find my forever home. When I was little, someone cut off my ears but I don't even remember it! I think it makes me look even cuter and lets me snuggle tighter with my foster parents. Everyone who meets me seems to fall in love so I'll just play until the right person finds me.

Foster mom here: Mali is such a joy! She is like a little mountain goat. I've never seen a Cairn that leaps and jumps while she's running, quite like she can. She plays constantly with our younger dog (also 2 years old) and became a quick member of our pack. If she has a home with a younger dog and kids, I think she would be in doggy heaven! You have to watch for her to sneak out if you open the door or if there are weak spots in your fence, but it is only to explore - not to run away! She is good about coming back when called and has never actively sought to escape. Despite the loss of her ears, she has no shyness about them and no distrust of people. She's a little snuggler and loves to have her belly scratched.

04/01/2009: Hello everybody! My name is Mali and I just arrived here in Arlington Texas. I like it! I have a yard, I have fur brothers and sisters, but most of all I have two humans that give me good food and treats. Don't get me wrong, even though I like it here I don't want to stay here. I am looking for a forever home that doesn't have such old, fuddy duddy furbutts. I am a young (2 yrs old) vibrant energetic gazelle. I can run like the wind and leap tall buildings. The local jackalopes could learn a thing or two from me. I like to play rough so if you have a large fur brother or sister for me - I say bring em on! Let's get this party started! And don't go feeling sorry for me cuz someone cut off my ears, I don't even remember it.

Foster mom here: Mali just arrived and has taken over as the official party dog. She is a bit taller than everyone else and runs circles around them. She would do well with a larger non-alpha fur sibling. Mali loves her humans, men and women. She sleeps all night in her crate and has learned to use the dog door. She knows what you want when you take her outside to potty, and will smile for you while she does her business. Somewhere in her past someone cut off her ears, but you would never know it by her actions, she holds no grudges and is a very happy go lucky girl. Here is a little video of this happy girl tinyurl.com/crdhxs

UPDATE 6/23/09: Phillips, aka "Ace", has become the Class Clown here in his foster home, constantly nibbling on the other two boy's ears and trying to play with the older female. The males - and one in particular, love to run and play chase with him - see the video below. Phillips mimics what the resident dogs do and has learned so much about being a regular dog. Nowadays he is playing, jumping and chasing squirrels!

He has become pretty fond of me, his foster mom. He gives little nibbles on my legs and pulls on the bottoms of my pants trying to initiate play, while we're outside. But he still runs and hides when foster dad enters the room or comes outside. Foster dad travels a great deal so it has been tough for Phillips to get to know him. We are still working on potty training. He keeps his crate dry all night and during the day if foster mom has to leave. He knows what he is expected to do when he goes outside. I think he just gets so excited while inside, trying to play with ALL the toys - sometimes all at the same time - that he forgets! Just in case, I keep a belly band on him while he's inside. Phillips is a sweet, loving dog who just needs a patient, loving family to continue to work with him. He gains more and more confidence EVERY day. He has come so far, but still needs a little work. Puppy school would probably be GREAT for him!

05/12/2009: Phillips was recently released from a commercial breeding facility. He's a small, sweet 1 1/2 year old boy - neutered and up to date on his shots. He approaches foster mom most of the time with his tail wagging, but he's still a little hesitant. Foster dad travels a lot so he hasn't been able to get used to him yet, but he has made SO much progress in the past 2 1/2 weeks in other areas. He LOVES the resident fur-buddies. I really think he would do best with another fur brother or sister. He mimics the resident three, has learned to chew/eat treats, chase squirrels, and bark at the lawn mower. He is a sweetheart! I have no doubt that he will overcome his fears in no time. Click on the link to see a Phillips at play:http://tinyurl.com/pbdxzd .

UPDATE 5/27/09: Sir Jeeves wants to say Hi to everyone - here are some recent photos of him: tinyurl.com/q7fjbm . The funniest thing he does is carry a toy in his mouth then stops at another toy, touches it with the one he has almost like he is trying to decide which he wants, HMMMMMMMM this one? Or that one? Then he usually moves on. A couple times he has tried to pick them BOTH up - now that was quite a scene. He does love his toys!

UPDATE 5/3/09: Sir Jeeves here - but you can call me Jeeves or Jeevie Weevie - just don't call me late to supper! I am spending a little time up in Vermont to test out the climate and bring a little Cairn love to my foster home. I have decided this place is nice - I have my own suite (but there's no candy, so why is it called a sweet?) where I stay while Foster Mom works and I'm very comfy there. At night I sleep quietly in my crate. When she comes home I grab a favorite toy and carry it all around, wagging my tail to show her how much I have missed her and can't wait to get scritches and rubs. I love to have my butt rubbed - call me crazy but it feels so gosh darn good! I am a good walker and need only some toys, food (and treats!) and someone to love me because I am ready to be someone's heart dog. I have lots and lots of love to give so mention my name - Sir Jeeves and I'll come be your best boy forever.

Foster Mom here: Jeeves is the sweetest little boy and he is such an easy dog to have around. He just had a check-up and has no health issues at all other than some tartar on his teeth. He could easily be an only dog although he gets along fine with his foster siblings. He entertains himself rolling a ball or tearing his toys apart and wants nothing more than to be right next to you every minute. He has the cutest habit of lifting his back legs up when you rub his butt - makes me laugh to see it. Look past his age and see a young soul and a heart that is just waiting to be a part of your heart, and consider yourself very fortunate if you were to adopt Sir Jeeves.

04/03/2009: Foster mom here: Sir Jeeves, who I call "Jeeves", is just the happiest boy! His tail wags almost constantly and he seems to be smiling all the time. He may be 9 years old but he certainly does not act like it! He likes to zoom in the yard or wrestle with his Cairn sisters and he loves to carry a ball or his de-stuffed parrot around. He sleeps quietly all night in his dog bed and seems to be housebroken. He's only had a few initial accidents in the house, which I feel was due to the change in his living situation, since he was an owner surrender. Sir Jeeves does seem skittish, he does not like loud noises or fast movements and he seems to prefer women, but I think he will do okay with men who are patient and let him warm up to them. One look at his sweet face will make you jump to fill out an application to adopt this stately gentleman!

UPDATE 6/16/09: I thought I’d let everyone know I’m doing just fine. Ya know, now that I know I what it is to be loved, you human people are really nice. I love to cuddle on a big person’s lap for hours at night, and try to remember to come when I hear my name called. Sometimes I forget, but I always remember to go to a spot I feel safe and sit. I never run from anyone anymore. Wonder why I ever did that in the first place? I’m learning what kisses are, and I love to give them right back when my foster family gives them to me. This potty training stuff is hard work, but as long as I’m taken outside every few hours, I’m catching onto it! The food my Foster mom feeds me tastes so good, I am growing up to be a strong and healthy girl. She tells everyone how my coat is getting longer now and my black points and rich red wheaten color stands out! I love my foster sisters! We play out in the yard. Don’t tell my foster sister Izzy, but I can run faster than her! Tug of war is my favorite game, but I also love to play with those squeaky hard rubber toys. Foster mom doesn’t even yell at me when I chew into one. She just says something about me being a typical Cairn puppy. I don’t know what that means, but I kinda think it’s a good thing. I do know I need a new family now, one with a yard so I can run, a doggie sibling to play with and loving humans to scratch my tummy. Please, won’t you pick me?

UPDATE 06/5/09: Our little Bo Peep is working hard learning to trust; that snuggles are a good thing and hands are for massages. She loves her cuddle time now, and even seeks it out from time to time. Bo Peep has found her toys and especially likes to play tug of war with her foster sisters. She considers all dogs her best friends, and follows her foster sisters around with great admiration, so a forever home with another furkid is a must. We are still working on house training, but Bo Peep is a smart little girl and I’m sure with some time and patience, she will be house trained soon. She has mastered the sit command, and still walks nicely on a leash. Bo Peep has found the great outdoors is a place she loves to be. She sniffs and explores on walks, and runs with the most adorable puppy attitude. At 14 months, Bo Peep is still a puppy at heart. She relaxes now and will sleep just about anywhere. Her coloring is exceptional, when Bo Peep’s fur grows to full length, she is going to be one beautiful Cairn with deep red wheaten fur and black points. Yesterday, I caught Bo Peep playing on her back, all four legs outstretched, it was the most endearing sight I have ever seen. Bo Peep only barks now when she thinks we need some protection. One correction, and she looks at you with her big beautiful brown eyes as if to say: "Sure foster mom, but I was doing it for you!" Bo Peep needs a forever home that understands love and patience, and is willing to travel along on her journey to total freedom. Are you that one special home?

05/26/2009: Little Bo Peep who lost her sheep eating her curds and whey. My little Bo Peep loves her curds and whey, and is gaining weight nicely. She came to Colonel Potter by way of a commercial breeding facility. She was very thin when she made her way to freedom and had been shaved down. Now that her coat is starting to grow back, Bo Peep has a thick red wheaten coat, and she is going to be one beautiful girl! Bo Peep would have never lost her sheep, as she is one smart little Cairn. In one week, she mastered the stairs, doorways, bridges and her leash training. As a matter of fact, Bo Peep is a pro on the leash, she walks nicely by your side, and is learning how to sniff all the wonderful smells in our great big world.

At 13 months, Bo Peep is still a puppy, and it really shows when she plays with my two Cairns. Bo Peep loves to be with other dogs, and will let you know she wants out of her x-pen to play. She runs the yard with her foster sisters, and will come into the house. Bo Peep doesn’t have a mean bone in her body, I have seen NO problem with her and my cats. Her favorite place to be is outside, she loves to play, with all animals. We are working on our potty training, but remember, the first 13 months of her life were spent in a cage, so this part of her training will take some time.

Bo Peep is coming along quickly, however, our little Bo Peep is still frightened of people. She has learned to sit nicely to let me put on her leashes, and is slowly learning to trust people. I’m sure with a few weeks of love and attention, she will realize humans are wonderful, hands are for petting, and as smart as she is, she will overcome her fear of people. Bo Peep is not quite ready for adoption, but check back with us for more updates!

UPDATE 6/22/09: Mister Salty has been working on his leash skills. When he first arrived he didn't want anything to do with going for walk or a leash. The first few walks were filled with frequent stops and feet dug into the pavement. I'm happy to report that on 21 June, Mister Salty wanted to go walking with the resident Cairns ! Mister Salty is a laid back, easy going fellow and he's not in a hurry about anything. He sashays when he goes for a walk, which is exaggerated by his long, lanky body. He definitely likes to stop and smell the roses. He met some of the neighborhood children this past weekend. When he saw them his tail started to wag, and as long as they approached him gently, he was happy to have his ears scratched and his back rubbed. Foster Mom did have to tell the young people not to put their hands in his face or move quickly as Mister Salty would flatten to the ground. He enjoyed the children and the attention. Mister Salty is about 75 percent potty trained. He wears a bellyband when he is in the house and it is removed when he goes outside. He occasionally will go to the back door and sit to be let out in the backyard, which is fenced in. And sometimes he will ring the bells on the handle of the backdoor to be let out. He will use the doggy door to come in the house, but will not use it to go outside. Currently, Mister Salty is very private about his potty activities. He doesn't want Foster Mom to watch him go potty. He waits until she moves away from the patio door to take care of business. Mister Salty does like to lie on the patio and sunbathe. He still isn't playing with toys or with the resident Cairns , but he loves their company. The resident male Cairn, continues to try to engage him in play, but Mister Salty isn't ready yet. Mister Salty will kiss your fingers. He is starting to enjoy belly rubs and massages and ear scratches. Sometimes he will still jump away when he is touched, but he is getting better about that each week. He follows his Foster Mom everywhere and then finds a nice spot to lie down be next to her. He still occasionally watches television and his favorite activity is lying down. He has discovered chewies and he likes to have a good chew once in a while. Mister Salty is still working on trust and confidence and he's not quite ready for adoption yet, but he's made substantial progress. Please keep checking back on this sweet boy.

05/25/2009: Mister Salty (nicknamed Salty or Salty Dawg here in his foster home) is approximately six years old and recently retired from a breeding facility. He’s a tall, lanky boy about 19 lbs, but could stand to gain a couple pounds. He has been in his foster home for three weeks and during that time he's been neutered and had his teeth cleaned. Mister Salty has lost some of his front bottom teeth, but that doesn’t interfere with his appetite, and he does like to eat! He’s particularly fond of cheese cubes, and other soft dogs treats, but is eager to sample new cuisine. Mister Salty is a gentle giant. He likes to be near his Foster Mom and will lie next to her leg, put his head on her knee and smile at her while thumping his tail. He’s eager for love and affection and wants to do everything correctly to gain praise. When he isn’t lying down, he follows his Foster Mom everywhere. He also likes to admire his reflection in mirrors, kitchen appliances, the patio door, or anything else where he can see himself. Mister Salty so far - is a couch potato. He loves to lounge and watch television at his Foster Mom’s house. He also likes to go outside on the patio and sunbathe. He’s very calm, friendly, and submissive. Mister Salty is quite content with food, a soft place to lie down, and having someone to provide love, attention and affection. He also gives finger kisses. He’s a very sweet boy and everyone that meets him falls in love with him. He’s so suave and charming.

The resident Cairns accepted him immediately. Our male Cairn is trying to engage Mister Salty in play, but so far Mister Salty has declined, so the resident male is content to lie next to him and be his buddy. Hopefully, after Mister Salty is more comfortable he will explore playtime. Mister Salty has paid suitable homage to our resident female empress Cairn - and they get along wonderfully too. She will also lie down next to Mister Salty for a nap. He is not potty trained yet, but he continues to improve. In the house he wears a bellyband until he gets the idea that it always belongs outside. Mister Salty is still working to overcome some of his fears. He is not accustomed to many household sounds and reacts by cowering, but he’s slowly adjusting. He is also skittish about being touched while he is learning to trust his Foster Mom, but will still pull back from quick motions. Mister Salty is learning to walk on a leash, but he’s not fully comfortable with that yet. He does like going out and about, so hopefully his Cairn curiosity will soon overcome his resistance to the leash. Mister Salty is not quite ready for adoption, but keep checking back. Also, visit Mister Salty’s photo album at: tinyurl.com/o97j8y

UPDATE 5/14/09: Phyllo is relaxed and feels really comfortable in his foster home; finally realizing this is where he needs to be now and that it's not so bad after all. He has FINALLY discovered that our doggie door works both ways and goes outside on his own, leaving fewer surprises inside for me when I arrive home from work. He looks forward to our daily walk around the block (even in the rain) and has such a relaxed and steady pace, you actually get to enjoy the walk along with him. Phyllo will find any and every bone, tissue, paper towel, or empty food container that may be in his path so he does require your attention during these walks. This gentleman has begun following me a great deal, knowing exactly what I'm going to do before I do it, and he leads the way each morning as I ready myself for work.

He seems to enjoy affection more and he often jumps into the chair with me to sit for just a few minutes, and will allow me to hug him and kiss his nose now (the kind of affection he used to run from). He has a soft loving side and I sense he really needs to be reminded that he is loved, but has taken a long time to open up and trust me enough to open his heart again. He never barks and only groans when he's hungry and you just aren't feeding him quickly enough. He takes meds well and is fairly good with grooming, but does have a "foot fettish" which means it usually takes 3 people to do his nails.

Phyllo is a great dog with character, knowledge and a very charming personality! He won't play with toys or other dogs, but has no problem getting along with most of them. He's no trouble at all and only requires letting him out 3 or 4 times a day to relieve himself, but again has recently begun going out the doggie door alone so this is now changing his routine. He is a creature of habit and seems to have a very accurate "body clock" for things he loves-like meals, walks, and treats. I can't say enough about how grand this guy is and we love him more each day. Phyllo is such a wonderful companion and looks into your face as though he is "talking to you" with his eyes and understands every word you say.

He is very healthy for his age and has had only a few health issues recently, always responding well to medications and treatments. He sleeps quietly in his bed each night and loves to lay on a blanket. Food remains his favorite thing and he still eats as though it's his last meal, always checking everyone else's bowls to make sure they are also cleaned. This is one senior who gives more than he takes and only wants to be loved, cared for, and have a best friend. He's always there, not demanding of attention, healthy and wise, just patiently waiting for that special friend and a home of his own to spend the rest of his golden years!

UPDATE 11/23/08: Phyllo adapted to living with many other Cairns after being an "only dog" for 13 years and having his life turned upside down at a very mature age. He is a proud and independent man - a very good example of a regal senior gentleman Cairn who doesn't want to be fussed over. His sadness has evolved into contentment, as he seems happy, grateful, still playful, and he is more willing to accept affection now. He follows me about the house more often and always keeping me in his sight. Phyllo becomes excited when I return home from work, allowing me to pick him up while he lays his head on my chest and looks affectionately into my face with those big eyes full of gratitude and love. He is not a lap dog, but often fills an empty spot next to me hoping for a little attention and a gentle touch now and then (but only one :-). He uses our doggie door to come inside, but not to go out. He does go to the door however, to let you know he needs to go outside, which occurs 3 to 4 times daily. His favorite thing to do is to eat, and each meal is eaten as if he expects someone to take it away from him; perhaps it's a "flashback" from when he was so hungry in his past years. He can be vocal if you delay feeing him and still makes me laugh with his "rocking" and fussing if it takes too long to prepare his meal. Phyllo likes to go for rides and enjoys short walks, so he needs someone who will keep him active but with moderation, as he likes being included in your activities. Phyllo is in very good health for his age with only some arthritis during cold weather or overexertion. He still jumps, loves to scratch his back on the floor and appreciates everything you do for him. Phyllo is a pleasure to have around and has enhanced our home with his presence. He deserves a wonderful home in his golden years with people who will love him without expecting anything back other than sharing their love. He is very devoted and a loyal friend, willing to take a chance on making one more major move in his life to someone who needs terribly to be loved.

UPDATE 9/7: Phyllo continues to become more affectionate as time goes by, allowing you to pet him more and placing himself near you to prompt these moments to occur. He's like a "grumpy old man" who just doesn't want to be known as a "softy", as if his image is important to him. Phyllo would still rather have a piece of toilet paper than a piece of steak and has a body clock as accurate as any I have ever seen. He moans and rocks from side to side, while trying to tell you it's time to work on his dinner (or breakfast) and is relentless at this ritual. He's very clear that it's time to eat and you are suppose to be feeding him. I find this charming, yet an annoying little oddity - BUT it always seem to make me smile (so how annoying could it really be?). He sleeps quietly beside our bed each night on a rug, and loves sleeping in front of a fan with his coat "blowing in the wind". Phyllo is very healthy for a 13 year old dog. He has a little arthritis and sometimes his knees slow him down, but nothing that doesn't quickly pass and allow him back to his active routine. He eats anything, will go to the door to go ask to go outside, and usually retires around 8:30. He goes to the bedroom alone after looking back as if saying "good night". You just have to love this old guy; he's charming, distinguished, and so full of spunk. He's always been an inside dog and has learned much from life's experiences. He pretty much knows what we all want from him and tries hard to please. We adore this gentleman and only hope the perfect home adopts him, giving him the best of his last years (and he could still have 3 or 4 more good ones). Phyllo has a very regal look about him and he's an honor to the Cairn breed.

UPDATE 7/7: Phyllo continues to fill our home with laughter and honor as he reigns "Senior" in our group of men. He has such a regal and distinguished aura about him. You just know he's smart when you meet him and I often wish he could talk, to tell me all he's experienced in his life and how it feels for him now. His wisdom has taught him all the manners he needs to be a good companion dog, so he waits knowing the right home for him will eventually come along. Phyllo is enjoying his life here with us and still entertains us with his "pre-meal" dance nightly. He knows well when we are putting him off and serving his dinner late. He's becoming a more affectionate gentleman also, assuming this is where he shall stay. He knows we have offered love, so I guess he's just decided it's fine to ask for it. He is very quiet and only makes his presence known when he's hungry, yet he seems to be aware of whatever is going on. Phyllo is healthy, active, and loves being outside. He has mastered coming in the doggie door, but still won't go out through it. We did notice a fear last night during a long thunder storm, he seemed nervous and looked for a place to hide his face. This was actually the first time we have noticed anxiety in him due to storms. He seemed comforted to sit by me and turn his head toward the pillows, appearing vulnerable for the first time, unlike the strong man he's always seemed to be. In his defense, it was a long and bad storm. It even had me rattled a bit. Phyllo is doing so well though, living among 6 other dogs and he has a routine that is totally reliable. He is loyal, loving, perceptive and starving for just one person to make his life complete and give him his final HOME. We are taking Phyllo to the vet next week, to update his shots and have his nails done. Phyllo likes going to the vet and enjoys the ride there as it makes him feel special to be "the chosen one" for the drive. We adore him and are happy to have him in our lives as long as he needs us.

UPDATE 5/26: Phyllo loves the Spring and Summer as he now goes out early in the mornings and just lays in the cool dark breeze, with his eyes begging me to leave him a while longer. Phyllo is such a gentle man who enjoys doing what he wants and being in control of how much attention he gets. He loves to sit near and be petted with your hand, but he's not up for a lot of hugging and kissing. He lays his head on my shoulder when I come home from work as he gets lost in the moment (giving me that hug) then looks around hoping no one noticed him being affectionate. Then he's ready to be put down and prances off - proudly showing he had a moment. He seems to feel Senior here (one other female his age) and it dignifies him, giving him a sense of authority and demanding respect. Phyllo is a wonderful companion and very accommodating. His "pre-meal" dances still make us laugh as his anger and impatience indicate that he's just "dying" from hunger. His two meals are his best moments of the day as this man is all about eating. He eats almost anything and still eats as though he only has seconds to consume that bowl, then goes outside immediately and relieves himself. Phyllo goes out about 3-4 times daily, and is for the most part housebroken as long as given a chance to go out. He's a smart guy and enjoys life, hoping for a home of his own eventually, but making the most of all the companionship and love we all have to offer him here. You can't be with Phyllo and not love him, with those eyes and that "plantation hair coloring" on his face - he makes me smile just to look at him, and he has wormed his way into our hearts.

UPDATE 4/6: Phyllo continues to be a charming member of our household, with manners and intelligence that only a senior could have. Phyllo is very routine with his activities (as most seniors are) thus making him very predictable and easy to care for. He blends in well with all 6 companion dogs here and pretty much does what he wants while staying out of everyone’s way. He mostly wants to be treated with the respect he has earned and the dignity he deserves as a gentle old guy. His favorite time of the day is meal time and he has a body clock that is within 10 minutes of being accurate each meal. If you hesitate preparing his meal, he sits and rocks from side to side while grumbling at you as if he's trying to tell you it's time to feed him. If you ignore him, he'll really let you have it rocking harder and getting louder. He is not a lap dog - he prefers to sit next to you on the sofa, getting a gentle rub now and then. He "has" a chair in our living room which has become his perch as he can see the front door, hall and TV from there and enjoys knowing what is going on around him. We adore this gentle man and appreciate all the good things that come with a senior dog. They already know about life and what is expected of them, and they have manners and loyalty for those willing to help them along the way. Phyllo would like a home with fewer dogs (or as an only dog) but mostly he just wants someone to be devoted to him. He's such a pleasure and makes us smile all the time - because he just knows we love him and care. He's happy with his life now, but wants to be that special someone in a loving person's life.

UPDATE 2/25: We are suddenly finding Phyllo sitting an arms distance away from us. He clearly wants affection but is still trying hard to keep that "unconcerned manly" attitude. He's very gentle and has mastered living peacefully with the other Cairns here. He knows his place and basically leaves the other dogs alone. Phyllo prefers people to other dogs, so he would not have a problem being an only dog again. He still won't use our doggie door, but scratches to go out and come back in. He loves lying on our deck enjoying the fresh air and basking in the sun. This gentleman has great manners. Life has taught him to be accommodating and he's accepted that his life is changed - whether he wanted it to or not. He's happy, loves to eat, and still watches for those pesky tissues or paper towels to destroy. He's not a barker or digger, but he gets quite excited when I come in from work each day, patiently waiting for his turn to be picked up and loved. And he seems so proud when it's his turn, holding his head high as I give him kisses and hugs. Then, it's the "put me down - I'm not supposed to be doing this" look.

His weight has stabilized at 16.5 pounds and he looks good and appears to feel good now. He was very thin when he arrived, put on a little too much weight at first, then settled at this weight. Phyllo sleeps quietly in his bed (which is in our bedroom) and he’ll go to bed on his own, when he decides the day is done. He's an independent soul - not a lap dog. But he does love personal contact and will come to us when he feels the need for attention - or senses the possibility of food. Phyllo gets very excited when you pick up his leash – he loves to go on walks and rides. This is a great little man with a wonderful personality gentle manner. He adds much pleasure to our home and we adore him. But he's patiently waiting for just the right person to take him to a HOME of his very own!

UPDATE 12/27: Phyllo has decided that his foster home is "not so bad" after all and has begun adjusting to the next chapter of his life. This 13 yo weighed a mere 15 lbs when he arrived and now feels and looks so much better at his normal weight of 23 lbs. He is very healthy for a 13 year old who is due a dental in the next couple of weeks, which should give him fresh breath and add a sparkle to his smile.

Phyllo is a stately gentleman who has experienced life and likes to live it to the fullest. He is not a lap dog, but prefers to sit next to you for his affection and loves being a part of all the activities in the home. Phyllo loves to go for walks and rides, and he also enjoys going outside to bask in the sun and feel the wind on his fur. He will go to the door when needed and scratches to come back in. Phyllo has always been an only dog, but gets along fine with the six other Cairns here and is very accommodating most of the time. I think he would prefer not being in such a large "pack" but he does well dealing with all the confusion and activity. His days revolve around mealtimes as his very favorite thing to do is to eat :-) He also loves to grab the end of the toilet paper roll and run with it and drinking from the toilet is a joyful habit of his so closing bathroom doors is a must. He considers trash cans are "mystery boxes" to explore and if you leave food on your table tell it good-by! This is a jolly old guy who just wants a family to love him again and to provide him with a home to live out his golden years, which could be many since he is quite spry. He quietly sleeps in his dog bed at night and anxiously waits for someone to wake up and feed him his breakfast. He's not crazy about toys but loves to chew on marrow bones. Phyllo has been a wonderful addition to our home and we'll miss him terribly when he leaves. He's a smart, well mannered gent with a lot of life and love left to give. He's not ready to "lay on the sidelines" yet, so he needs a home with companionship and pleanty of activity. I can't say enough about how great a dog this southern gentleman is he's won our hearts and filled our home with laughter.

10/16/2007: Phyllo is a wonderful 13 year-old Southern gentleman who recently found his way into the arms of Col. Potter Rescue as an owner surrender. He is still trying to decide why his life has so drastically changed, but seems to be adjusting well for his age. He's a big guy, but very underweight at this time, so we are busy feeding him 3 to 4 times daily to allow him to gain the needed weight and more strength.

Phyllo is a very curious Senior guy who loves to investigate and "conquer his world," while looking at you with that "Who ME?" look when he's caught escaping with a loaf of bread from the kitchen counter, or running down the hall with the end of the toilet paper. He's not ready for the rocking chair by any means, and he just loves to spend time outside while enjoying sunshine and fresh air.

Phyllo is very smart and knows how to be housebroken, as well as walk on a leash, since his age has taught him so much. What he needs is a new owner who will take care of him during the golden years of his life and make these the best times he has ever had. He's very accommodating and is trusting us more daily, patiently waiting for his time to be near us and for a few moments of affection (at his choosing, of course). We expect to see quite a few changes in the next few weeks, but for now, he's happy and comfortable, walking on our furniture and eating every chance he gets. He's a wonderfully intelligent guy who just needs a great home in which to spend the remainder of his life, and one that feeds him well. :-) We are so proud to have him in our home, knowing he exhibits the very essence of a Cairn, and is he just a wonderful companion.

UPDATE 5/11/09: Polly continues to thrive here and is trying so to be like the other Cairns. Joining them for their daily walk has suddenly become very important to her. She sees their excitement when I pick up their leashes and the excitement seems contagious to her causing her to whine and wag her tail, yet she won't come forward to be leashed as they do. I've found that picking her up to leash her and carrying her to the first corner, usually motivates her to join them during the remainder of the walk. She loves running into people along the way. Everyone adores her small size and playfulness as she jumps for joy, wags her tail, and beckons everyone to acknowledge her and give her scritches. She seems to love feeling the wind in her face and allows me to pick her up if she knows she gets to "go around the block" without having to walk.

Polly likes being outside and is going out more now that the weather is warm. She seems very sensitive to temperatures and doesn't like to be cold or wet at any time. I do believe the Probiotics Polly has recently begun taking have helped as her stools are of good consistency now and she wakes me less during the nights, to have them. Polly continues to be a sweetheart and loves affection, giving me such a feeling of being loved. She always wants to sit with me to receive tummy rubs and gentle touches. She continues to take many medications daily to maintain this state of "normalcy" but she gives back so much by showing how much she loves and appreciates all that is done for her. Polly will play with toys for a long time, usually entertaining herself for quite a while, just tossing the toy about, grabbing it and returning it to you, hoping you'll throw the toy for her. She is full of vigor and energy. She just needs an outlet to focus on, and since she is still so young - play time is very important to her. I can always count on Polly being close. No matter what I'm doing Polly is always just a few feet away. She's extremely sweet and needy, but wants terribly for someone to make her life "normal" and love her. Please support Polly as she patiently waits for the answers to her health problems and deals with the life she has been given. Polly appreciates all the donations and prayers knowing they are all that is keeping her going now. She truly wants to live the rest of her life like any other dog - without pain.

UPDATE 4/17/09: Polly lives an "almost" normal life now, getting and giving love and affection, and having moments of vigorous play. Other than her pain during bowel movements – she just blends into the group as a very "normal" Cairn girl. Polly screams whether I am here or not as I have arrived home from work to hear her screaming as I cross the yard and approach the door, only to find her having a BM when I enter. When I'm home, she immediately runs to me for assistance.

Her meals are very exact: 28-30 pieces of kibble per meal twice a day. The major portion her meals is boiled chicken breast, and she eats every bite! Any alteration of this combination could cause an onset of diarrhea which causes her much discomfort. Polly is given 2 doses of Tramadol 1/2 tab of 50 mg daily, 1/2 tablet of Metronidazole 250 mg daily, and 2 Clavamox (125 mg) every 12 hours, and has just begun to receive a probiotic, FortiFlora within the past week. Her stools are a bit smaller since this new addition, but otherwise it's causing no ill affects. I have also tried to add her to the daily walk with the other Cairns since the weather has warmed. Some days she won't walk so I carry her just to get her outdoors. Polly often has a couple of BM's during these walks which could contribute to her not wanting to go as eagerly as the other Cairns, yet she does feel much better after arriving home as she is "empty" and relieved, which makes her very playful and relaxed; she also sleeps better during the night.

Polly is very sensitive to cold weather temperatures, as well as human emotions in her environment. If it is cold outside, she won't walk and she trembles through the entire experience. If I get upset or stressed, she reacts to this also. She's amazingly tuned in to those around her. When she does go on walks, she becomes very upset if ANY human she encounters doesn't acknowledge her presence by her whining, barking, and wagging her tail for attention. Polly loves everyone! New things tend to scare her though. We have a neighborhood Siberian Husky who roams. The owners can't seem to keep her confined, and during one of our walks the Husky came forward to greet us (meaning no harm) and towered over Polly. She acted as though her life were about to end until I could pick her up to comfort her. She loves affection but does not like to be picked up or handled a great deal. Polly continues to need her rear washed and is quite tolerant. She knows I won't hurt her and am trying to help. Her rear is less black than it was originally and has no open sores. Polly is sprayed to cleanse and then sprayed with a Betadine solution which seems to work better for her than any other topical application we have tried. Her cries and screams still tear at my heart and I always tell her how sorry I am she must endure this. She's at a good place with general "maintenance" but I still hope that one day her pain will end with a solution to her problems. We adore this girl and the passion she has for life as well as the stamina to deal with what life has given her. Polly is a special girl whose needs are many, yet she knows we are helping her and tries very hard to be accommodating.

Polly continues to need financial and emotional support as she waits for a miracle. We hope one day she will have her own family who loves her as much as we do! Please support Polly as she struggles through each day hoping to be "like all the other Cairns". I've fostered many sick Cairns, but few as sweet as Polly. She's just a wonderful girl who continues to need our help to be happy, content, and live with as little pain as possible. In the meantime, I'm making sure she gets all the love she needs!

UPDATE 11/23: Polly continues to own a huge piece of my heart and can be so very sweet. Unlike the Polly we first met, she now respects me and the other Cairns she is living with. She is at a "plateau" with her colon problems and dermatitis while being maintained with 3 medications daily, and baths for her rear. Her rear continues to improve slowly and her stools are limited to 2 (possibly 3) daily. Polly continues to scream terribly and tremble with pain during these bowel movements (which tend to end with some blood), but reassuring her helps and they pass quickly, with her producing soft yet firm stools. Her diet is critical to the consistency of her stools (getting the balance of wet and dry correct) yet she knows when she's had enough and always leaves a little food for her buddy Phyllo to clean up. Polly is staying at a good weight at 12.5 lbs (she's very tiny) and seems to have plenty of energy. Emotionally, she's a completely different dog who loves, trusts, and appreciates that we tolerate her unpleasant moments with her. Polly loves affection and never misses an opportunity to be in my lap or beside me. She's very needy for reassurance that she's loved and doesn't like to share my attention. She is possession aggressive, so her treats are usually enjoyed in an X-pen. Polly has remained very vocal, especially when I leave for work each day, but quiets quickly as she's just trying to tear my heart out (and I know this). Polly lives an almost normal life now with affection and enthusiasm, especially desiring to play with Erica Kane who is about her size and seems to draw the playfulness out in Polly. She uses the doggie door and seems to make more trips outside, but still prefers to use a puppy pad inside.

Recently there has been some discussion of a new procedure; a novel sphincter-sparing surgical technique for the repair of Perianal Fistulas that has demonstrated a 58% success rate in an American patient population. This info was sent to 3 medical teams who have been interested in, or a part of, Polly's care, but it was determined that they do not have a definitive diagnosis on Polly and therefore it was hard to recommend this therapy. I continue to remain hopeful that one day soon the right help will be there for her. Polly has lived with pain all her life and she deserves not to have to live this way anymore. The time she has while not hurting is far too special to take away from her now. As always we ask for prayers for her continued improvements as she remains in need of medications and support to provide her with the good life she now has. This little lady is to be admired since she deals with her life and can still be happy and trusting. We adore her and know it is so worth providing for her needs.

UPDATE 9/7: Polly is living a life of leisure and enjoying almost every moment of it in her foster home. She still screams while having a bowel movement, but has a firm routine now of just three a day, and her uncomfortable time prior seems shorter. Otherwise, she's full of life, loves to play with the other Cairns here, and expects to be spoiled in many ways. She loves to sit in my lap or between my legs on the ottoman. Polly has a look of happiness on her face now and knows she is loved and can count on us to be there when she needs us. She is taking 3 meds a day to maintain her level of "normalcy" and help her body function with as little discomfort as possible. Polly bounces with happiness when we come home and loves to destroy everyone else's stuffed toys. She can be protective of her toys so she needs to be monitored while with other dogs, until you get a feeling for her willingness to share during play.

Polly is very small as well as smart and knows many key words, including BED. She takes little room on the foot of our bed (on her own special plastic blanket which she adores) and always situates it just to her liking before retiring. Polly is a creature of habit about getting her meds and meals at about the same time each day, and will follow you to the kitchen as soon a meal preparation begins. She plays a game with another foster Cairn, Phyllo, as she eats. She leaves her bowl to check his - and he does the same thing. They sort of wait for each other to make this quick bowl check, so I must be sure Polly ate all her meds before allowing the swap, but it's such fun to see them watching each other for the right time to exchange bowls :-). Polly has enhanced our home with love and laughter, allowing us to believe that one day, a cure for her colon disease will be found. We continue to ask for donations to maintain her medical bills monthly, and thank you all for allowing Polly to have a chance at life, with as little pain as possible. She's an adorable little lady who deserves to have a special home with someone who loves her, and a much more normal life than she's known.

UPDATE 7/7: Polly is doing wonderfully now as her daily medications are maintaining a good balance in her eating and stools, yet she continues to scream with each bowel movement (average 2-3 daily). We are so in love with the personality she now has - sweet, playful and spoiled rotten. We continue to pray that a cure can be found to heal her colon and eliminate her pain. Polly's rear is continuing to slowly improve. It's still black in color but no longer open and raw on the inside of her tail, or on her rear. She's less sensitive and no longer minds the cleanings she receives. We have seen such wonderful changes in this girl during her long stay, and can't help but believe some day she will be like a normal dog and have no pain in her life as a routine thing. Until that time, we continue to pump medicine into her, keep her clean, and enjoy the love and affection she shows us because she knows we love her and are trying to help her. Polly is without a doubt, a very special girl to be so sweet and trusting with all that she deals with daily. Overall, she has a great quality of life, just a few bad moments during the day and we make them as supportive and easy on her, as we can. Your continued prayers and support with donations, will assure Polly can continue to have this life and the hopes that one day, she will poop like any other dog.

UPDATE 5/18: Polly continues to have a wonderful attitude and remains playful and happy, although her bowel movements still prompt screaming and discomfort. We continue to "trial and error" her meds; first removing Tramadol, which we learned very quickly was a mistake. After a couple of days Polly's screams intensified and her stools became bloody and painful, so we put her back on this drug and she has returned to her prior status. We then removed the Sulfasalazine in fixed oil, and see no significant improvement so this may no longer be required as a part of her daily medication. Her severe dermatitis seems to be improving, with no more open sores and diminished swelling. We are rinsing her rear daily and spraying with Betadine solution, which seems to be helping her better than anything else. With her continued good spirits and playfulness, Polly is just a pleasure to have around. She is limited to 2 or 3 stools a day, which are still painful enough to prompt screaming, but there is rarely blood in the stools and the consistency is soft enough to be easy to pass, but firm enough to pick up. Polly is an exceptional dog who makes us laugh every day at her antics, and seems to know we are doing all we can for her. We don't know that she will ever be cured, but Polly is a wonderful dog just as she is now. Her health requires substantial attention, but the love she gives is sufficient reward. We shall truly rejoice if she ever has a stool without screaming, but there is improvement and we hope that continues. This little lady is truly a loving creature who wants nothing more than affection and to be a part of your life. We continue to pray for her in hopes that one day soon, she will be more normal and have a day without pain - like most dogs. We feel honored to be a part of her life, and are continuing to ask for support with her medical expenses and hope for a miracle that will turn her life around. She gets excited when I come home from work and squeals at me until I pay attention to her. She is a "regular routine" type of dog, and knows what you are going to do before you do it. She adores everyone and gets along fine with every dog she has met. Aside from her health issues, she's a perfect little girl! Click here for some sweet photos of Polly: http://tinyurl.com/64m2mc

UPDATE 3/23/08: Polly is feeling playful and comfortable most of the time now! She is taking Clavamox twice daily and the Atopica has been eliminated from her routine. Her treatment is still "trial and error" but now, with the assistance of Cornell University, we maintain faith that someone will find a cure for this girl, or at least a way to maintain her health so she has a good life. Polly is usually very accommodating, and loves to be pampered! She's now having pain ONLY, prior to and during, her bowel movements. Polly is an endearing little lady who loves affection, is spoiled rotten, and only asks for help during her stools. She's very predictable in her habits and loves to go outside often now. As you can imagine, we adore this girl and know a good life is ahead for her; she's too special for it NOT to be. Prayers always needed - and welcome.

UPDATE 12/26: Polly has turned into the sweetest little girl! She turns to us for support when needed, rather than seeing us as a threat, and she has more good days than bad. Her stools are still painful and usually end with bleeding, yet her disposition has improved 100%. Recently, more frequent communications between Dr. Wickman and NCSU, and they are working to find a course of treatment that will lessen her pain.

Polly goes outside from time to time and seems to enjoy the crisp air blowing in her face. She has gained 2 lbs. in the past 2 months, which is the first weight gain since her arrival. Miss Polly usually feels good, has a happy smile on her face, and races every dog in the house to my lap. She's learned to appreciate toys and had a blast with all the Christmas toys this year.

Polly is still seeing the vet monthly or more, and remains on a large amount of medication which costs Col. Potter about $90.00 a month. Any Guardian Angel donations to continue helping this girl are very much appreciated by Polly, because she’s enjoying life now and can deal with the painful stools until we find a way to help her. Her eyes have turned from scared and full of sadness to gentle, loving and full of hope.

UPDATE 12/06/07: Polly is doing just fine right now. Over the last 3-4 months, we have changed her food to a non allergenic Duck and Potato, no ill effect on her bowel movements. We've tried herbs, which upset her stomach and gave her diarrhea and more painful stools, and a digestion blend powder to help her absorb her food more effectively, but that also had an adverse effect. With each change we go back to square one to get her bowel movements back to as normal as possible.

I have noticed in the last week, a few bowel movements with minimal pain. Once she only yelped slightly and had, what we would describe as a ‘good’ bowel movement. We are encouraged, but everything improves slowly. If there are adverse changes, she has to go back to what we know works better and proceed from there. We have used some Penatene cream, some Tritop antibiotic which was sent with her in the beginning, and we've even tried some Kango juice in her food which is supposed to help out with IBS symptoms. None are fully relieving her symptoms. This is one of the most frustrating cases our vet, NCSU, and we have ever seen. Probably the best change for her has been the Duck and Potato kibble. We've tried two brands, Royal Canin and Natural Balance, and both have worked equally well. We tried Wellness Fish and Sweet Potato but that didn't agree with her at all.

She is generally a happy go lucky Cairn in-between her bowel movements and is very funny at times. She is jealous of Azelia, because she likes Max. So she gets upset when they play, pushing in between them, grumbling as if she's saying "you're new here, he's MY man". That makes Ann and I laugh and makes Max think he's more of a "stud" than he really is.

UPDATE 09/30: Polly is still under the care of her local vet who continues to consult with the doctors at NCSU about her treatments. Since her condition is rare, especially in the Cairn breed, much of this has been trial and error. She is taking numerous medications, both to reduce the inflammation in her colon and also to ease her pain when she has bowel movements. We are still bathing her daily and treating her rear and tail to clear up the severe dermatitis. We are seeing "baby step" improvements. Since it has taken her entire life to get into this condition she won't be healed overnight either. Polly's disposition is much improved, as she had more good days than bad, but Polly is still quite pitiful and runs to us as soon as her stools begin. We pray daily that these painful but inevitable occurrences diminish. She is so sweet and loving - following us around the house and ALWAYS waiting for one of us to sit so she can curl up beside us. Polly is spending more time outside now enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, often playing with a ball or stuffed toy. The painful life this little girl has had, is beyond anything I can imagine. She truly exhibits that strong "Cairn spirit" these dogs are known for.

UPDATE 09/03: Through all the testing by so many great vets, Polly has been diagnosed with something akin to Perianal Fistulas, not known in Cairns before, but also not something that be repaired by surgery. One wonderful development for Polly since her trip to NCSU: she no longer drips fluids all the time now, making her care much easier. There are many more days when Polly feels good and we see glimpses of a very sweet and girl who loves affection. When she gets excited, she runs around the house in circles and she enjoys a little time outside now. Our prayers now are that these treatments work to help her body rid itself of the infections. We ask for continued prayers for her. We've begun a small amount of training with her, knowing she has to master manners during her stay here. We have high hopes that one day Polly will be able to have a "forever home" of her own.

UPDATE 8/19: Polly is back on the old diet which is what the doctors said was best for her while we wait for her biopsies to return. She knows that we are trying to help her and let's us do what we need to. She's a very atypical case but one deserving of our attention and care as a group.

UPDATE 8/16: Polly doesn't have a stricture. The Endoscope of her colon was done and 2 senior clinicians did not find a stricture. What they did find were several ulcerated lesions. They took 8-10 biopsies which will be back in a week. Quite frankly they don't know what is the causing the problem and don't know where to start to fix it until the biopsies come back. They suspect anorectal mucosal disease. They stated this is seen in German Shepherds, but it is not normal for Cairns.

They want to try and clear up the severe dermatitis in the meantime, until her biopsies come back, and if her skin infection can be successfully treated, then it’s hoped her immune system can focus on her anorectal disease. We are dumbfounded, as are the Doctors at NCSU. I was hoping for some better news.

UPDATE 8/15: Polly went in to NCSU for testing today. She’s so tiny it was very, very hard to withhold all solid food to clear out her system, but she’s doing okay just on liquids, and I have heard from NCSU twice today. They said her bloodwork and urinalysis came back fine, which encourages us to think there is no underlying disease. Everyone has fallen in love with her and ALL the doctors at NCSU are very proud to be working with a rescue group compassionate enough to give this sweet girl a chance at a good life.

UPDATE 08/11: Polly went to NCSU this week for an assessment of her stricture, enlarged secum and infected skin on her rear. It was determined Polly was not a good candidate for the surgical removal of this stricture due to it's location, because it would most likely leave her incontinent. That would make it impossible to find a home for her.

She is returning to NCSU this Monday, August 13th, for blood work and a procedure to stretch the stricture and apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent the stricture from growing back together. Hopefully, this one treatment will solve her problem, but if not she will return in a week to have the procedure done one last time. Once the colon is open and she can drain properly, the other problems created by this condition should resolve on their own. It is unbelievable that this small girl has lived this way all her short life.

This little girl deserves to have a life free from this misery, and to spend time in the arms of someone who will return all the love she has to give. The soft desperate sounds she makes from the suffering she has to endure make us very, very anxious to see this end for her.

UPDATE 8/6/07: Polly continues to have good days and bad ones, yesterday being a fairly difficult one for her. Her stools always hurt. Sometimes, she just doesn't seem to feel well at all. She moans and whines a bit, and pants a lot as she just lays about and rests. She acts a little more needy, yet doesn’t want to be handled, and she's a bit more unpredictable, and "snippy". We know her moods now and can tell better when she's uncomfortable. She's more trusting of us so we don't worry about her biting, even though we sense she wants to. Her initial vet visit discovered a "swollen appendix" and that may be causing this discomfort but we don’t know for sure, and are hoping this is something that can be easily addressed by the doctors along with her intestinal stricture.

NCSU has passed her case from the Internal Medical group to the Surgical Team. They have moved her appointment up to this Thursday, Aug 9th when they will have all her medical records, X-rays, and the summary from Dr. Wickman. Then NCSU will be able to examine her themselves and give us a prognosis of her condition now and after the surgery, plus an estimate of her medical bill.

07/23/2007: Polly came into rescue at only 13 months old; an owner surrender whose family was unable to deal with her physical problems and was going to turn her in to a shelter to be euthanized. Fortunately, Polly had an "angel" who was trying to help the owners, and contacted Col. Potter when it was apparent her needs were very complicated. Col. Potter quickly stepped in and arranged an emergency transport to get her moved to her present foster home in Virginia.

She's just adorable and was dealt a very bad hand in life, so we're hoping she can be treated and given a chance at a long and happy life. She needs our prayers and donations now, to give her the chance that she so desperately deserves. Won’t you click on the Guardian Angel link above for Polly and join us in our effort to help this tiny girl?