Greetings!

We adopted two calico kittens on July 4, 2008 from the Lost Dog & Cat Rescue, during an adoption event at the Fair Lakes PETSMART. It's hard to believe that was just four months ago because it seems Kiwi and Ellie have been with us forever. It's been fun to watch them grow from sweet little kittens to mischievous, curious "cat toddlers" who want nothing more than a warm lap, good food and plenty of access to explore the house. Here's a quick update about the pair.

The two of them get along very well. It's so much fun to watch them together, whether they are cuddling up on the couch or play-fighting on the floor. For some reason, both of them are fascinated with water, so whenever someone turns on the water for a bath or shower, these two come running. They then sit next to the tub or on the toilet, refusing to leave even when sprinkled with water in an effort to shoo them away. (Privacy, please!) They are both very playful and affectionate, and are true members of the family.

Ellie, who I believe was the runt of her litter, remains the smaller of the two sisters. (She's got the white coat with the black and brown nose.) She's also the most affectionate - our cuddle bug. We like to say that while Kiwi thinks with her brain, Ellie thinks with her heart. She is the epitome of sweetness. She loves to follow us around the house, always keeping close. I am currently eight months pregnant, and she's become my little belly warmer. Whenever I wake up from a nap, I always find her wrapped up either next to the belly, or on top of it. She's also usually the first to greet us at the door whenever we get home. She loves to give kisses, too, and it's not uncommon to wake up feeling a rough, little tongue on our toes or hands. She is so accommodating, one of her most favorite things is when we lay her on her back and rub under her chin, chest, legs and stomach. It cracks us up to see her purr and curl her front paws up, seemingly thinking, "Oh, this is the life!"

Kiwi is the ring leader of the two - our curious troublemaker. Whenever we hear a crash, a thump or the scampering of little paws, we don't even go investigate anymore - we know it is Kiwi. She's always sniffing around, always investigating something, never sitting still unless she just finished a meal or its nap time. There isn't a corner of this house she hasn't explored, and she seems to prefer the darkest, most trickiest places to get to - under the bed, behind the computer table, in the back of the linen closet. She has figured out how to open doors, either jumping to turn the knobs or nudging it open with her head or paws. Now, all of our kitchen cabinets have child-safety locks on them because she learned how to open them and sneak inside, too. One time, I found her curled up in one of our giant cooking pots in there, having nudged away the lid. She can't seem to settle for the warm blankets and pillows we leave on our couches and beds for them ... nope ... she needs a little adventure to get to her preferred spot.

I'm including a recent photo of the two of them curled up amongst our clean laundry (another preferred location for nap time). We're so happy to have them, and we thank Janet Jacobs and the Lost Dog & Cat Rescue for taking such great care of them before they came to our home! :)

Dear Friends at Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation:

We wanted to take a moment to update you on an adoptee “Taz,” who we adopted in late January of this year. “Gizmo” or “Giz” as he is now known has made such amazing progress and his cooky, goofy little ways and sweet heart have really been a blessing. After seeing Giz on your website, it didn’t take long for me to send his foster mother an email inquiring about meeting him. As pug owners, we love the breed and were so excited to welcome another one of these wonderful little dogs into our home. After some email chatter, we were able to bring our pug Hayes to meet Gizmo at a PetSmart adoption event and, needless to say, he was curled up in our bed that night with the rest of his new family. When Giz first came to us, he had lost a lot of weight and had a case of the sniffles. After a vet trip and new weight-gaining gravy, he was up and about and he’s filled out quite nicely according to the vet. Giz has learned to sit, walk on a leash and speak – all since February! Pugs, as stubborn as they are, are smart little guys and eager to please. I’ve included just a few pictures of his latest outing at the Fetch Bakery old town dog Halloween gathering last weekend.

I could go on and on and on, but I know there are just as many happy stories as Giz’s out there thanks to your organization and the generosity and selflessness of your volunteers. From Giz and Hayes, my wife and myself, we say thank you!

(Note: Giz is in the yellow “swimmies” in all these pictures – he went as the rescued, and my other pug, Hayes, as the lifeguard).

Dear Lost Dog,

It's been about a month since I became a foster failure and adopted Zoey (subsequently renamed Zorro, since he's a boy). He has been unbelievably perfect. He is great with the cats (one of whom is LDCRF alum Myst, who is also doing well). He is friendly to all people and dogs. He is a fantastic companion on car rides and likes to go for walks.

His fur was shaved very short when I adopted him, due to pre-rescue matting. Now that his coat is coming in, it is soft and curly, like a little lamb. He is the cutest little dog ever, and that isn't just my opinion. His grandparents think so too!

He is all ready for Halloween. I couldn't figure out how to dress him as Zorro, since he's not great with a sword. So, he'll be a pumpkin this year.

Thank you for rescuing Zorro for me.

Hi,

It's hard to believe that it's only been one week since we brought Rosie (formerly Princess) home to live with us. She fit right in immediately, even with our 4 year old tabby cat, Lilly. Rosie was truly meant to be, as the weekend before we had put in an application on a puppy with another rescue organization. After interviews and home checks we were told that we were to pick the puppy up that Saturday. Two days before we were to pick her up, we received a call that there had been a mistake, she had been promised already to another family. We were devastated. Everyone told us the right dog is still out there for us.

Familiar with Lost Dog and the great work that you do, I went to your website and we found a dog we were interested in. We attended the adoption event, and it turned out that that dog was not the right fit for us. But nearby there was another dog being walked around by a volunteer named Susan. Susan was wonderful and convinced us to give Rosie a try. After a few hours of walking her around and getting to know Rosie, we decided she was the one. As I was writing the check for her adoption fee, Rosie came over and gave me a kiss on the hand. I was sold!

Rosie has really come to life just over the past week. We took her to the vet first thing on Monday and got her taken care of with the meds that she needed. She's making great progress. She's yet to bark, but she does snore like a freight train.

Thanks to you and your volunteers for all the work that you do and for saving our Rosie.

Hi LDCRF,

It's been almost 7 months since we've adopted Harold and we've loved every minute of it. He's staked out his claim on our chairs and our bed. He's the funniest and most energetic pup we know and is always smiling. He sports some fashionable bandanas and is fond of laying around on Sundays watching football. He LOVEs to sniff around and going to the dog park. His best friends are his toy bone and stuffed squirrel (ps - which he tore apart). He loves to meet other dogs - especially beagles.

He loves car rides and loves to put his head out the window and slobber all over the windows. He loves treats (especially Frosty Paws) and will sit and lay down for them. He's the perfect dog for us and is loved by so many! Eventually, he'll be getting a brother or sister!

Thank You!!

Hello everyone!

I am writing to you from my new home in Bealeton, Virginia. I was named Vivan when I was with you all, but I am now 'KiKi', which really fits my personality. My mommy and daddy adopted me from the Leesburg PetSmart in Jan. of 2007. I was a small pup at the time, and they debated between me, my brother (Vernon) and my sister (Valentina). I was calm and cuddly, so the choice to my mom was simple. :)

My parents had just moved to Leesburg from Spotsylvania when they adopted me. When they got home and looked through all my paperwork they realized that I was from Spotsylvania too, and I was even found on the road that my mommy's dad lives on. Small world huh? It's like I was made for them.

I was easily house trained and quickly became a daddy's girl. I am very sweet and love to cover my daddy with kisses. I like taking long cat naps during the day and I now have a little brother too, Cam. He is a mutt too (my parents think that mutts make the best dogs.). We both love to play in our fenced in yard as much as we can and we enjoy doggie ice cream during hot summer days. My family is trying to talk my dad into adopting another dog, so keep your fingers crossed for us.

Take care,

KiKi

Just sharing a very happy update about Bedford (adopted 9/13/08):

As you can see from the picture, Bedford immediately found a cozy spot in our home -- right on the couch! :-) He has absolutely taken over our life, and both of the kids (ages 7 and 4) are absolutely smitten! Bedford goes for walks each day in the morning, right after I get home from work, and after dinner, and the kids often accompany us on the walks -- even the one at 6:15 am! Bedford just loves going for walks as a "clan" -- his tail is wagging and his eyes are just filled with happiness.

Thank you, LDCF, for all your efforts and for bringing us Bedford! Please tell Martha, the volunteer at the Fair Lakes PetSmart that spent so much time with us and Bedford, that she helped make a wonderful match for our family. We truly could not be happier!

Karen, David, Natalie and Nicholas -- and, of course, BEDFORD! Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, copy, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.

We've had four years this week with our Lolly. She loves to hike and chase tennis balls, she goes on vacation with us, and she's "shadow dog" with us around the house--although she occasionally takes a break to get some sun on the deck. We have long walks every day, and she sometimes runs into her friends and admirers, who always stop and rub her belly for her. She doesn't bark--except in her sleep--and she adores people. And as you can see from the picture, Lolly has even been an artist's model; the painting hangs over our fireplace. She's made us so happy over the last four years!

Hi LDCRF,

It has not quite been a week since my new mom came and to scoop me up but I already L-O-V-E my new family! My first weekend at my new house was a busy one. We went to the pet store where I got to pick out my first toy -- I like things that are soft and squeaky so I picked out a soft football. Then mom dropped me off at the groomers where I got the spa treatment. Once I was done everyone who walked past me wanted to pet me and who could blame them?! Every night we go for a nice long run which is good because I sure do have a lot of energy! Then I come home and lay in my moms lap. She keeps telling me that I'm not a lap dog but I don't believe her. I'm looking forward to meeting the rest of my new family and many years of love and playtime!

Thanks LDCRF for helping me find someone who loves me more than anything!

Doggie Kisses and Tail Wags,

Opie (aka Gordo)

Dear LDCRF,My fiance and I adopted Yoshi (formerly Drisk) back in early May 2008, and he is doing so well!

Although he had to go through a settling-in period with us and his new home, we all came out of it OK, and now he is a very happy dog. He took an obedience class and passed with flying colors, after finally figuring out "down" two days before graduation. He even knows a few extra tricks he will happily perform.

Yoshi has really come out of his shell--at first, he wouldn't play with toys, and he didn't seem to know what to do at the dog park except sniff around the perimeters. But over time, he's become more confident and more comfortable with his surroundings, and now he plays with all of his toys, and the dog park is his favorite place to go. He plays with other dogs and gets them to chase him around (or he'll chase them--whatever works), and we've even gotten him familiar with going in the water, although he still won't swim. That's OK, though--means we don't have to worry about him getting soaked and rolling in the dirt!

True to his Japanese heritage, Yoshi has some ninja skills. One night, in near silence and under cover of darkness, he managed to tip over the trash can and dig out three pieces of pizza and eat them while we were asleep. We discovered our very round dog the next morning; luckily he was fine except for being bloated and slow for a couple days (we figured it was the equivalent of one of us eating a pizza and a half, so no wonder it took that long).

He is a wonderful and beautiful dog--we're always getting compliments on how good-looking and well-behaved he is, and we're glad to have him in our home!

My name is Janie and don't I look cute in my favorite green chair! I don't let anyone else sit there. When someone else is sitting in it I squeeze my way onto it until that person has to get up! But my human family doesn't seem to mind and they let me sit here most of the time.

Since I was adopted back in June 2007 by my family, I have found lots of favorite places in my new home. I love sitting in front of the refrigerator in case someone drops some yummy people food for me. The storage container for my food is nearby too, which makes it even better. Another favorite place is hanging out with my best friend Roxie - she was adopted by my family a couple of months after me and we play all day long together.

As you can see - her favorite place is on the floor in the kitchen where she patiently waits for her meals. But my favorite place of all is on the couch snuggling with my family. It doesn't get any better than this! Thank you for making this all possible! Janie

We are absolutely madly in love with Sam and his sister, Jules (we renamed her from Kitty). They are so much fun and such a delight to watch and cuddle with. We love to watch them play and listen to them "talk" to each other!

They love sleeping on top of my hubby's pillow at night and it cracks him up! We are so happy with them and it's so hard to believe that anyone could give those two up. I wouldn't trade them for anything!!!! I'm so happy that we were able to find them online and make a connection. We are like new parents and take pictures all the time of them! I will be happy to send some to you.

Thanks for checking on our new "babies"!!!

Remember me? I am Ceecee now Luna Biscuit a German shepherd Mix from the hoarder in WV, I was recued with my brother whom I haven't heard from him since I found my new home. I miss my foster mom Arlene but happy that my parents love and spoiled me as a baby. We moved here in Seattle, WA last month where I experienced my first plane ride, I was nervous at first but after 6 hours flight I saw my dad and mom in the Seattle airport patiently waiting for me. I know they are worried of me getting scared from the sound like thunder but I did great on the flight to make them happy.

I wanted to thank you all especially to my foster mom Arlene for finding me a new home. I made the family complete, I am being loved and pampered. I have my bone anytime I want, ohh am proud to say that I eat treats now and my favorite is the ABC from petco my parents are smart to find what I like and the rawhide stick oh so yummy! I can't wait to find a new dos spa salon and socialize with other dogs in the off leash park. We can't visit you anymore but the thoughts of Lost Dog and Cat rescue will forever be treasured.

Dear Lost Dog and Cat Rescue,

Hi, it's Lilly! Remember me? I was the rat terrier chihuahua mix that was always looking for a soft spot to land. Well I found one! My parents completely spoil me rotten. They keep telling me I'm the smartest, most well behaved dog every to set foot on the Seven Corners Pet Smart. I have them wrapped around my little paw.

You should see how confident I am now. My tail is flying high and I'm loving life. We go on long walks in a neighborhood full of spoiled dogs and squirrels and birds. I love sitting out on the patio with my folks waiting for the deer to show up in the back woods. I'm not afraid at all although you wouldn't know it because my entire body shakes with excitement.

I'm on some great chow and my coat is getting all soft and shiny. My folks tell me what a wonderful and confident dog I am becoming. I wanted to write and say thanks for saving me from that high kill shelter. I couldn't be happier with the entire adoption process and wanted to let you know what a great job all your staff and volunteers do. Especially in my case, you found me the most gullible humans I have ever met. Everything I do is adorable to them......there's a sucker born everyday I suppose but they sure are good to me. Here are a couple of shots of me in my new digs. I'm living large for a small dog. Thanks again for all your help.

Love,

Lilly

Hi,

We just wanted to give you a one year update on Quincy. I can't believe we adopted him a year ago! Quincy has continued to be (no surprise) a perfect dog. He has successfully gone on many trips, car, camping, canoeing and visiting his "grandparents" both our parents adore him as their "grand-dog." He even got to visit my classroom this past spring and meet my first graders. They had been exchanging "letters" with him in writing workshop, and read about him in my teacher books. Quincy has made himself at home with us and has brought so much joy to our lives. Thanks again for everything you all do at the LDR and best wishes!

Erin, Pete and Quinc

Hey Lost Dog, we wanted to let you know that Scout and Kodiak are healthy, happy, and enjoying life as "brothers," despite their personality differences.

Scout (formerly Chip, adopted Nov. '05) has come a long way, and we think he missed his calling as a police or search-and-rescue dog. He continues to amaze us with his energy and intelligence, he adores people (especially children), and enjoys exercise and learning new things. We think he was traumatized early on or weaned from his litter too soon, but he's making good progress on his confidence and savviness around other dogs.

Koda (formerly Beckley, adopted Sept. '06) is a floppy-eared-cuddlebug-charmer with a great sense of humor and need to please. He loves to play chase around the park with Scout, but is also a skilled couch potato and often falls asleep in the middle of a good ear scratch. He spends much of his time in front of the window, and despite his gentle and goofy demeanor has proven to be an alert watch dog and protector of his family.

They're sweet, fun-loving boys who have us totally charmed. We love them dearly and are working to be the best "pack leaders" we can. Thank you for letting us bring them home.

Here are a couple photos from a recent camping trip on 25+ acres of lush, muddy, natural terrain. In short, dog heaven. The Border Collie is Scout's new girlfriend.

Woof!

Hi everyone! My name is Chewy! Formerly Fluffy but I think I look more like chewbaca then a Fluffy. I have been living with my people for a little over a year now. After a few scares about my health and a few seizures later I have settled in nicely. I have a big sister my daddy adopted. She is a rotti, but she is my best friend! I am so spoiled... I have 10+ outfits and a flashy little collar. I have yet to gain much weight, as I have more energy than the energizer bunny itself. So I am 12 lbs now vs 9 lbs.

The story of my life has been interesting. I was owned my a little old lady who didn't want me and was taken to a shelter. My mom found out I was there and went there to visit me... but sadly I was gone... but I still wasn't home. A nice lady can to get me and took me to the rescue. My mom searched for countless hours to find the rescue. That next morning she drove from fredericksburg, Va to Maryland. She got to the adoption event 2hrs early and was the first person on the list. When I came out I ran to her and licked over and over...and its been great since. I got a birthday cake around December ( that's when I think my bday is) I have lots toys and sleep on my moms head every night. I have lots of doggie friends and am always told I have the best smile.

Thank you for helping me on my journey to my new loving home! I could not have asked for more.

-Chewy

Hi Lost Dog,

It's been a little over a year now that I've been with my family who adopted me just 4 days after they came back from their honeymoon. I had some problems at first with separation anxiety but they never gave up on me. Now I'm better and live in a new townhouse where there is a lot of space to play and I like to look out the window all day. My girlfriend, Lexi (formerly known as Hart) was also adopted from Lost Dog on the same day I was by one of my mom's close friends. We get to play together a lot and also with all our other friends we've made. My mom and dad like to take me jogging, hiking, long walks through our new neighborhood, to the dog park and road trips to visit my other doggie cousins. I get a lot of attention with my curly tail and handsome good looks!! I am so happy to be here, I am spoiled rotten and they love being around me all the time!!

Thanks Lost Dog for helping me find my way to the Wakefields! -Fritz

Bella is nearing her first birthday in September. It was near Christmas 2007 when our girl came to live with us. She has passed puppy kindergarten with flying colors!

We love her so :-) Her housemates Ruby and Nina have almost let her be the Boss!

Dear Lost Dog and Cat friends,

Here I am, Ozzie the beautful and now distinguished big dog. They tell me the white hairs are very distinguished. It's almost 5 years since you all let me come to live with my mom. 3 years ago she brought home my little sis, Lili, who [grrrrroannnnn] never left. I thought she just came for a visit but, anyway, she is kind of fun and very silly. Here's a picture of us lazing away the day lying out in the sun. Mom keeps telling us that big black dogs shouldn't lie in the sun, not sure what she means. We like it!

Well, our lives are still going through changes. Our real house isn't finished yet since the fire in 2007 and now we are living at one of my human brother's houses, which has 1/2 acre of fenced yard for us with lots of beautiful old trees and things to chase like squirrels, birds, butterflies and sometimes rabbits. I keep warning them to stay out but they keep coming back. Remember, I'm the big brave hunter so am sure to catch one ... some day.

The cute little boy lying of the deck is my human brother's baby, Bailey. He is 4 and so little. He stands underneath me to hide .. we love each other lots but have had an argument or two because we both love to be boss. You know what, it's good to be the big dog! Bailey is the best husky in the world even though he never grew so big. He can even go anywhere without a leash on because he listens so well. I wonder if I could trick Mom into doing that with me .. then run for it. Well, she would probably catch me anyway cause I just can't run that fast or that far.

Again, all my friends at Lost Dog and Cat Rescue, thank you for letting me live with my mom and whole big family. I think I am still big and beautiful, what do you think?

Scooter (formerly “Sig”) came into our lives on June 21, 2008 at the Falls Church PetSmart. We couldn’t be happier and can’t imagine our lives without this sweet, playful bundle of joy!

When Scooter first came to us, he was so overwhelmed from leaving his mom and sisters and brothers, and frightened of all the changes that were going on in his little life. He was only 3 months old and not very socialized, so everything made him jump and yelp with fear and anxiety. With some tender loving care, he has formed an impenetrable bond with his daddy and mommy. Slowly but consistently, he has been exposed to many different people, pets, places, car rides, sights, and smells, and each day he grows more and more confident.

We are blessed to live in a very dog-friendly neighborhood, and every night on our long walks we meet new dogs and new faces (as well as some familiar ones, now!), and he loves them all.

In addition to being incredibly playful and curious, he’s definitely an intelligent little guy, and tends to pick up commands quite easily. Everyone who meets him instantly falls in love with him- he’s quite the little charmer!

We can’t thank Lost Dog Rescue enough! Thank you for bringing such an adorable little guy into our lives!

Hi Harry,

How's life? We are doing well. Suzie is a great cat, who is ALWAYS craving attention. Rhett, he is a great cat too, well he has been renamed, Harry (in honor of you :)), Hunny, and now Tigger. He is a cuddly cat. They are both a great addition to our family. Tigger/Hunny/Harry/Rhett is trying to nurse from our older cats, and they are pretty tolerant of him.

Here is a picture of the two:

Take care and we will stop by soon, just to say, "hi"

Keep in touch.