Saturday, December 30, 2006

The first Blizzard






Finally, we have a real snow storm! It has been absolutely beautiful out here, the patterns left by drifting snow are simply natures art!

Well, we have some great pictures of our semi loaded with hay stuck in a four foot snow drift. It took about three days to dig that one out. Enjoy the pictures!

We worked really hard to get these animals through this blizzard, but we really need cash donations to get through these next couple of months, so if you haven't donated yet, please help to save the life of an animal and donate through our website at www.denkaisanctuary.org and click on the Network for good icon!

Thursday, December 28, 2006

Great Way to Start the New Year!

One of my best friends called the other day and told me about the gift that she was going to give to her dad for the holidays ~ a sponsored dog. Her dad already cares for six to seven dogs that were neglected and she knows that he couldn't manage to physically adopt another. She reached out to a local shelter in her native Washington and found a dog that she could sponsor in the name of her dad. The shelter or rescue organization, rather, will be able to provide for the dog for one year and will send pictures and a newsletter out to the father of my friend. Isn't this a great idea? Denkai also offers this service. If you know of someone who can't physically adopt or care for an animal, sponsoring one in their name is a great gift idea. We will provide you with a photograph of the animal and updates. If the person sponsoring the animal lives in the area, he or she is more than welcome to come out and visit with the sponsored animal at any time! I think that this is also a great opportunity for young people to learn about what it takes to care for both farm and domestic animals before taking on the responsibility of an actual adoption. Contact us for more information and we would be happy to help you out!

Friday, December 15, 2006

Winter Tips for Keeping Pets Safe and Warm

As winter approaches, it's important that we protect all of our animal companions. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when caring for your pet as cold weather approaches.

1. Be careful of antifreeze drips and spills. Domestic and wild animals are attracted to antifreeze and will often drink it, unaware that it is poisonous. Most animals will not recover if they accidentally consume antifreeze. Ensure that you wipe up any spills and tightly close all containers to protect your cat, dog, or a wild animal.

2. It is best to keep pets indoors during times of extreme cold. Cats and dogs can still experience frost bite on the tips of their ears, nose, and paws. If your animal must remain outdoors, use wood for creating a shelter and straw works best as a heat insulator. Blankets and towels will only freeze if left outdoors. Straw is fairly inexpensive, as well, and costs about $4 to $5 per bale. Always ensure that your animal has fresh water that is not frozen and extra food. Animals consume more food in the winter in order to keep warm. Remember, it's always best that the animal be inside, if possible, but follow the above tips for necessary outdoor shelters.

3. Watch for any changes to an animals appearance during the winter months. Some animals respond differently to cold than others. Paw pads may bleed or become cracked due to exposure to the cold, ice, and snow. Use natural ointments to soothe paw pads and always clean off any snow remnants.

4. If you see a stray or lost animal, do the right thing and pick it up. Give us a call and we will direct you as to how to best help the animal. Carry an emergency pack with you (extra blankets, treats, water jug, leashes, carriers, etc.), in case you may need to lure a frightened animal out of hiding in order to get it to safety.

These are just several animal tips to keep in mind when caring for your pet during throughout the cold winter months. Call or e-mail us if you have any questions. Remember, keep your animal companions safe and warm!

Tuesday, December 12, 2006

Help Needed in Socializing Cats

Fostering animals is one of the most important gifts that we can give to them. More importantly, taking the time to foster and socialize animals helps them to have a more successful chance at becoming a new member to an adoptive family. Many feral, semi-feral, and stray cats are living in our surrounding communities. Many need extra time in being socialized, as they have had to acclimate to living in a mode of constant survival. Sadly, many of these cats are euthanized daily, as foster homes and special programs are not made available to animals in need of long-term socialization. I am currently in need of individuals willing to foster and socialize some of these animals. While some of these cats will never be able to live indoors, many can live happy lives outdoors, in the right environments. Still, I am in need of persons willing to take the time to foster these cats while they are spayed and neutered and work with me in finding new placements for them, whether it be an indoor or outdoor environment. If anyone feels that they are willing to work on this issue and become a foster parent to these cats, please contact Shanon at volunteer@denkaisanctuary.org. Thank you for your compassion and willingness to help!

Monday, November 20, 2006

Account of our Louisiana Trip


Into the Bayou – Denkai Animal Sanctuary, Louisiana Trip 11/11/2006

A shelter cries out for help in Louisiana and nobody hears it. Not even during the hurricanes a year ago. Why? Though this shelter is a dropping point for six cities in Louisiana, it has no funding or resources for its animals. I have to admit, driving to Louisiana I had no idea what to expect or who to expect for that matter. The following is the story of the trip and why our Sanctuary has become involved.

Having managed to raise $1000.00 to rescue more Louisiana animals, we then contemplated the best way to go about getting them to Colorado. Flying was too expensive and would not stretch donor dollars far enough or save enough animals, getting a volunteer to drive had fallen through, so, as the Director and wanting to maximize numbers saved along with getting to know the staff of this Hammond Shelter, I decided to go. Contemplating carefully who should come with me, I went through several options and finally decided on asking Katy, our 17 year old volunteer to go. Thinking her parents would definitely object, I was figuring out a back up plan, when Joan, her mother phoned me saying absolutely! I thought, and they agreed, that this would be a great trip for her, she is home schooled and it would be a wonderful opportunity to learn why these animals and many others in shelters need our help.

Prior to leaving, I searched for foster homes and areas to place the dogs we were to bring back. Not having the kennel set up and being full at the Sanctuary, other locations were needed.

We rented a minivan and left on Tuesday. Arriving in Hammond on Wednesday night, Katy and I went directly to the shelter as we had been told that they were still having to euthanize animals even as we were on our way to help them. Not quite knowing what or who to expect, I have to admit, my guard was up. The first person we met at the shelter was Becca. Now Becca is the very tall, silent type, not a lot of hello out of her right away, I figured she was the one to watch out for, hmmmmm. Next, I met Kathy, yep, she was much friendlier and was so excited to see us. Finally, we had the pleasure of meeting Betsy, better known as Mamma. Betsy is amazing, she leads this group of workers silently and thoughtfully with strong mind and heart. I honestly think that she holds them together. I know she made us feel right at home.

Thursday, we met Maryann and Tracy. Thinking of Maryann still makes me laugh. She followed me warily around, very protective of the animals at this shelter, making sure that I was on the up and up. She is so sensitive and observant to those animals, it is amazing. Well, it didn’t take long for her to open up to us either and from that point on, she was all help and even toured Katy and me through their facility. Tracy, what a sweet heart. Tracy was born and raised in Louisiana, never has left the state. She gave us a ride to dinner the night before we left and then had to make a quick stop at the store to send home some down home Louisiana spicy food with us!

We started our day on Thursday helping to clean kennels and rotate dogs in and out, through yards and then helping to feed. I wanted to get a feel for the people working this shelter and find out what they are all about. And of course, I end up working with Becca, who I am sure is going to give me a good what for. Well, she didn’t, she is amazing, so quiet, yet works so hard and she has a huge heart! What I observed in these people and their interaction with the animals in this shelter was amazing. The animals are comfortable, they are happy and it is incredibly obvious that they feel completely safe even though they are in kennels as at any other shelter. They don’t bark constantly or slam against the kennel gates at you, they are observant. This is amazing, they are obviously worked with, cared for and they get outdoor time with real grassy yards.

Kathy met me in the walkway of the kennel on Thursday, she contemplates quitting, it is so hard to have to euthanize the animals that they can not find placements for, Betsy says she feels like a traitor, they care so well for these animals and then end up having to euthanize them because homes can not be found. Puppies under 4 months old are euthanized on the spot. 700 dogs per month are put to sleep by this team of three, very hard working women. As tears well up in her eyes, Betsy says “I would rather clean Kennels and be here all night than have to euthanize any of these wonderful animals.”

Now you know the character of these women and how hard they work. While we were in Hammond, Betsy asked us to Please visit an animal Sanctuary located near Hammond, she described conditions that only a germ could love, a bit skeptical, but curious, we went. Karen, our first contact with this shelter and an amazingly strong, giving and dedicated person, along with Katy and Myself arrived at this sanctuary Thursday night. Well, the first thing that caught our attention as we were searching for this Sanctuary was the stench. Plugging our noses and looking around, we spotted rows upon rows of dog kennels, well, this must be the place.

Upon stepping out of the car, trying not to gag because of the aroma filling the air, we were greeted by the person running this Sanctuary. He toured us through it as we had asked to see the dogs he had available. What we found is heartbreaking.

Believe me, I understand how hard it is to run and operate a Sanctuary along with dealing with outsider opinion, so wanted to give this person the best shot at explaining things as I could. We walked past a number of dogs tied out on cable runs and to porch posts. Yep, he tells us, I had a female dog tied to that one, came home one day and she had hung herself on that cable there, got rapped up in it or something” Ya think? A deep breath, and on to the next place. A barn, dark, dank and here comes the next “Ya think?” Two Female dogs with puppies on them, one each, the others had died. The pens never get cleaned and they are running in poop. Around the corner, in what used to be a horse stall with no window and only slats of wood that would allow light in, were more dogs. He stated that he doesn’t let them out, ever! He can’t catch them if he does, so they die in there whether it is of heartworm or lack of care or other factors. Around we go to the next barn. Four Catahoula puppies huddle in a corner together, immediately I can tell that they are sick and afraid of us. Taking pictures, Karen rambles on and on, distracting this person while Katy and I examine the pups. Gums are white, fleas everywhere and sorely underweight, yep they don’t have a chance.

Our little group follows this caretaker around the house, past several more dogs on chains, to the front porch. Two sets of female dogs with at least seven puppies each. Here it comes, “Yep, this one’s brother got her and that one two, so we have him over there in those pens” as he points towards the rows upon rows of barking dogs in kennels. All I can think is “Oh Boy”. Keeping my mouth shut, I silently point out what we are seeing to Katy, teaching her what we are looking at and why it is happening. Now we have the pleasure of walking towards the rows of dogs in kennels. The sky echoes with the sound of barking dogs.

The kennels measure approximately five feet wide and ten long, there are some that could have been ten by ten, sitting on poured concrete slabs. . There are three to five dogs per kennel and one dog house per kennel. It is obvious as we walk past the kennels that these dogs are highly under socialized, they are attacking each other as we walk past their kennels trying to get some attention from somebody, anybody! There is a beautiful black and white pit bull, sitting by himself in one of these kennels, highly aggressive through the fence, but it’s ok, the man says, that dog’s teeth are filed down, so he can’t actually hurt you if he bites you. This dog is a trained fighting dog. Continuing the tour, we see a kennel of three black lab mixes, all full of ringworm, no hair and severe conjunctivitis (eye infections). Since there is no solid barrier between kennels, this is spreading from one set of kennels to the next. It is obvious that no treatment is being given for this. In the center of the L shaped runs of kennels, sits a small, covered pen, divided in two for two small dogs with litters of puppies, some of the puppies old enough to reproduce and male. The dogs are breeding with each other through fencing because there is no solid barrier to separate them and they are not being spayed and neutered. Dogs that are new are thrown into a kennel with a group of others, there is a rescue in Canada that has one of these dogs, his leg was chewed off by the group already in the kennel. This one was lucky, he lived. Others have not. Cats run loose across the property, also reproducing at alarming rates, these cats are proclaimed rescues by this caretaker.

Having finished our tour and still wretching at the permeating stench coming from the property, we had the pleasure of meeting the “brains” behind this operation of 176 dogs that are cared for by one to two people on any given day. This woman looked at acted as though she had just walked out of that scene on the Never Ending Story with the old couple that just bickers with each other the whole time. She rambled on and on, yelling at her husband in between sentences, not paying attention to Karen’s faked asthma attack, which is what eventually saved us from this woman’s insanity. Karen had offered to help take some of the puppies off of their hands so that we could get them better. She was going to head out on Friday, after we had left with our transport. Strides are being taken to shut this place down.

Back to Hammond, we went and walked in to more pups having to be put down, no room left Betsy told us, tears welling up in her eyes. I looked at her, along with Kathy and everybody else and told them that what they are doing, with the limited to no resources they have and the care they are giving those animals was in itself, amazing. These animals feel safe and secure even though these ladies are having to put them down and that is huge. It is not the fault of these workers, there is no spay and neuter program in place for these animals. Educational programs need to be implemented, Tangapahoa Parish Animal Control needs help now!
Back to the drive, Friday Katy and I bathed and loaded dogs, we were able to fit approximately 40 dogs into our minivan, to do this, we left behind some items such as our cooler and some other minor items. Becca looked at me like are you crazy? Leaving the cooler? I told her the dogs were more important. She laughed. We left to generous hugs and unforgettable smiles from Becca and the rest of the staff,

Off we went, back to Colorado, 1,400 miles to go. Off and on, we would stop, unload the car and walk, water and feed along with clean crates, then load the dogs up and off we went again. We stopped Saturday morning outside of Vernon, TX at 2 am. Let’s just say that the hotel had seen better days. I found the bones of a deceased animal in the bathroom, blood on the comforter covers, somebody else’s smelly sock and stained pillows. The room reeked of stale cigarette smoke and to top it all off, there was no heat. Katy and I were both exhausted, so we looked at each other, went out to walk, water and feed dogs, then rooted around for a clean spot on our beds and tried to sleep. At 5 am, freezing our rear ends off, we loaded back into the van and drove a ways down the road to offload the dogs, do the routine and off we went towards Oklahoma. Our next stopping point, besides the one I had to take a nap at, was at a small picnic area in Oklahoma. When we pulled in, there was nobody there, well we started our normal routing of crate cleaning, offloading dogs and puppies, etc. Here come five semi trucks zooming past us. I’m thinking oh great, here we go. Yep, sure enough, here comes mister truck driver and his wife, who by the way was toting the most well-fed daschund I have ever seen. “Hey, what you got in there?” Whoa, look at all those puppies! Give me one will ya?” He says, my reply? “Uh no.” “Well why not? You have so many?” So I go on to explain that this is a rescue transport and these pups have to be vetted, spayed, neutered, etc. and then they can find homes. He still doesn’t get it. His wife gets it though. That’s all that mattered, she gets it, she’ll make him get it.

We arrived in Aurora, Colorado at the DIA (Dog Gone Incredible Adventure) Dog Club at about 6 pm on Saturday night. Sandy, the owner and Mike, her caretaker met us at the door with warm food and a cozy kennel for the dogs. She asked if we would like to eat first. Well, anybody that knows me, knows the answer to that. Nope, let’s unload the dogs and then we’ll eat. So, one by one, we unloaded dogs, washed and dried and set in kennels. Sandy’s groomer had also shown up to help. I am so amazed with these people. They have taken on 20 of our dogs to this wonderful, warm, clean and caring environment, have asked for nothing in return and are doing all of the work, feeding, cleaning, walking and caring for the dogs. 15 eight week old puppies went to their foster homes in other parts of Denver and four puppies and two older small dogs are in the Loveland/Fort Collins Area.

We focused on bringing back the dogs that had no chance in Louisiana, the ones that would definitely be put to sleep. The puppies, arriving daily as we were there, under four months old, the bull terrier with her broken leg that had no access to an orthopedic surgeon, the momma shepherd who so faithfully has nursed her six puppies, born in this shelter, the small dogs that are pregnant, one has an ulcer on her eye, the Llhasa Apso who was used as a football as a young puppy and is now very upset if his head, legs or tail is messed with, the miniature pincher found on the side of the road, as we were leaving town, we saw his buddy, dead on the side of that same road, the lab puppies that were most certainly going to end up in a fighting dog training ring, the list goes on and on. The dogs in Hammond have no way out there, they have no chance unless we continue to help this place along with others in resource-starved parts of the United States. We have the resources and the people to help here. While shelters all over the US are forced to euthanize their animals and are in need of help, the Louisiana area is still devastated by the hurricanes, FEMA is now pulling their trailer homes out of that area, creating more homeless people and dogs that are being dumped in this shelter. There are no resources available to the animals in this shelter. We want to help provide them with good dog and cat food, flea medications, wormer, vaccinations, and donations to help the animals that are in need.

An enormous thank you goes out to everybody involved in making this trip happen. To Bree and Darrin for holding down the fort while I was gone, to Kris of The Mutt Hutt in Windsor, for taking on Bucky, our pancreas dog, to Bridget, for your help in continuing our mobile Adoptions and taking care of Stevie Wonder, our blind Boston Terrier, expecting nothing in return, for working with our 1 year old Boston Terrier’s new family to ensure that his training needs are met and the new owners are educated, To Kristen with the Four Paws Pet Center of Colorado, Konnie of the Homeward Bound Foundation and all of her supporters, may your recovery from surgery go well, Sandy and Mike at the DIA Dog Club, Jane and Ariel for opening their home to the two sick puppies and donations of supplies for this trip and the crackers that helped us to get through it! To Major King of Channel 7 News, we hope that you will still consider running our story, thank you for keeping in close contact with us! This would not have been possible without your caring commitment and dedication to these animals. You are all truly amazing and wonderful people.

These dogs will all be up for adoption and looking forward to new homes in the next two weeks. Please visit our website at www.denkaisanctuary.org in the midweek for updates on the dogs, their surgeries and links to pictures and descriptions at petfinder.com and muttshack.com.

Saturday, October 21, 2006

Bucky Needs a Guardian Angel, ASAP!



Bucky loves to play fetch, is crate trained and loves everybody! What a happy, loveable guy! So why did he get dumped to starve to death?

Bucky was a stray dog, running the streets of Loveland, for how long, we are not sure. What we do know is that he has tested positive for EPI, Endocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency. This means that his pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes, therefore resulting in poor digestion and absorption of his food. You can see his condition from the pictures.

Bucky entered our Sanctuary today. We have picked up Violase-V, enzymes needed to help him begin digesting his food adequately. Your help is urgently needed to help us keep Bucky alive and healthy. He has a hard time controlling his bowel movements and most of the time does not make it outside in time. He tries so hard though!

Bucky is only 4 years old, he can live a long, happy and healthy life if you can just help by purchasing these needed enzymes for him. This is on a continual basis at this point. The Cost equals $127.35 and you can donate by calling Blue Sky Animal Clinic at (970) 663-6046 today and letting them know you would like to donate towards Bucky at Denkai Animal Sanctuary! Please don't wait, Bucky needs you!

Friday, October 20, 2006

New Arrivals, Sponsor Jewel and Sash, Sponsors Needed!






Jewel is a gorgeous Thoroubred, possibly warmblood cross Mare, This horse is so well trained and has obviously at one point in time had an amazing life. She was headed to Slaughter. Such a beautiful animal that somebody had put so much into, now nothing more than skin and bones with a gleam of hope in her eye that somebody will help her.

When I picked Jewel up, she immediately nudged me with her head in a gesture of thanks. She loaded like a pro into the horse trailer, not prompting whatsoever. When we arrived at the Sanctuary, Jewel slowly backed up out of the trailer and when her front feet were on the ground, she waited patiently for me to grab the lead rope and take her to her destination. Very well trained!

Please consider sponsoring Jewel today! A monthly sponsorship is only $30.00.






Sash is a beautiful Palamino Gelding, only about 14 hh. He also escaped Slaughter. He is very trusting, but not quite sure about everything. I was able to get a halter on him and lead him to the trailer. He was so trusting and followed me willingly. All that was running through my head was that somebody could have been leading this horse to his fate at a slaughter plant and he was willing to trust, not knowing what his fate was to be. Thank goodness it wasn't that. Sash will be worked with on training, but is very green from what we can tell. We think he is a Mustang.

Please consider sponsoring him, he has a very persistent cough and is being quarantined for the next month or more. Sponsorship is only $30.00!

Saturday, October 14, 2006

Loveland Adoption Days






















Check out some of our pictures from our adoption days at the Loveland Pet Smart! We will be holding mobile adoptions each Saturday at the Loveland store, from 10-4. Please come out and join us! If anyone is interested in volunteering with animal transportation (from the sanctuary to the store) or in helping out with mobile adoptions in any way, please e-mail volunteer@denkaisanctuary.org. All three animals above are currently available for adoption. Matt is pictured here with Penelope and has been wonderful in fostering her over the past month. She is currently looking for a permanent home. Please contact us if you are interested in adopting Penelope or the kitten or the cat, Boots, pictured above. We currently have other cats and kittens available, so please contact us for further information on our adoption process. We look forward to seeing you at the Loveland Pet Smart!

Tuesday, September 19, 2006

A Day in the life of Kenai..


Mr. Personality! Kenai is a very playful young donkey. He can be seen playing with toys, balls and his buddies in the pasture.

On this day however, he was exceptionally playful and decided he was finished with this here farrier. Sat right down and protested! We couldn't help but laugh!

Patience plays a huge role in working with any animal. Those coming into our Sanctuary have normally had very bad experiences with people, especially farriers, that they do not want to be handled and have a very hard time trusting people. Many of them have been beaten into submission with rasps or other objects by farriers that do not have patience, making them even more skittish and untrusting.

Our farrier, pictured here, has done an excellent job over the last 2.5 years helping the Sanctuary and our many animals to recover and live a pain and stress free life. Come visit Darrin Hill at his next workshop for the Sanctuary on September 30, 2006 from 11 am to 1 pm to learn more about farrier work and see live examples of what poor work can cause along with neglect and different diseases of the hoof. Contact us at info@denkaisanctuary.org for more information or visit www.denkaisanctuary.org.

Saturday, September 16, 2006

Teaching Our Children

Just as it is important to teach our children how to interact with other persons, it is just as imperative to instruct children how to treat animals. Model for children how to pet animals, feed them and supply them with water. Teaching a child how to care for an animal is an invaluable tool. By interacting with animals on a positive level, children can learn empathy. Learning how to be a friend to an animal is a great lesson that can transfer to how a child treats other human beings, as well. Children do not automatically know how to relate to an animal. As well, children raised in large cities are not familar with animals and will embrace the opportunity to know an animal. Consider volunteering at a local youth organization that embraces the notion that children should be given the opportunity to get to know and respect their fellow creatures. At Denkai, we welcome the opportunity to have you volunteer with your child. Call or e-mail us at volunteer@denkaisanctuary.org if you would like to schedule a volunteer day with your child or children.

Preparing for an Emergency

How prepared are you for an emergency? Just as we prepare our homes against flood, tornado, hurricane, or other natural disaster, we need to take the time to devise an emergency plan in case we need to evacuate with our familes, including companion animals. There are several critical factors to keep in mind when preparing for an emergency in which you would need to evacuate. Make sure that all of your vet records are available to take with you and that you have current photographs of companion animals. This is extremely critical in case you become separated. Have an emergency supply of any medication or herbal remedy that is needed for the animals. In turn, stockpiling a months supply of dry and soft food and water is critical. Have carriers, leashes and extra blankets in a safe location so that you will be ready to go if the time comes. The first step is to make a list of everything that is needed to care for your companion animals on a daily basis and set aside a supply that will last a month. It might seem extreme, but it is vital to prepare in case of emergency. If you use litter that comes in jugs or large plastic gallon totes, clean out and use for maintaining an emergency water supply.

Consider Adopting a Senior Animal

Many of the animals that arrive at shelters are often older and have a difficult time being adopted. It seems common for people to want to adopt kittens or puppies and disregard the older animals awaiting a second chance. While puppies and kittens needs homes, as well, consider adopting an animal that is older and who may or may not have special needs. Many older animals, as well, are better suited to living with young children. Often times, they are calmer and used to living with them. Just something to consider when adopting an animal! We have senior animals for adoption, as well! Check out our adoption link on the site. All of these animals are very loving, indeed, and will make great companions!

Monday, September 04, 2006

Helpful Hints

We can sometimes feel helpless when we pass a stray dog or cat {or other animal} and are unsure as to how to help. Try to keep extra collars, leashes, and perhaps a carrier or two in your vehicle so that you can assist an animal in distress. That is why keeping an emergency kit filled with a few water containers, extra food, blankets, rubber gloves, and towels can assist when transporting an animal in distress. Make sure, as well, that you have a list of phone numbers to local sanctuaries, shelters, and fellow advocates who would be willing to assist.

Advocating for Feral, Stray, and Semi-Feral Cats

There is truly an overabundance of cats and kittens that live in our cities and towns. Survivors of the street, many individuals pass them by and assume that he or she can care for themselves if left to roam. The average life of a cat living outdoors is diminished by the fact that it faces predators of both human and animal form, weather conditions, traffic, and much more. While it seems overwhelming to deal with, it is critical that we take the time to contact local officials and address policies concerning stray and feral cats. While some TNR policies have been enacted in certain areas, it is often to financially consuming for local governments to continue. Whatever county you may live in, it is critical to at least take the time to make a phone call to your local representative and find out if any laws exist that protect cats. Many advocate for TNR, while others take a different route. Whatever your beliefs, it is important that we let officials know that we need to establish laws in order to protect these felines. Spaying and neutering is vital, along with providing animals with proper vaccinations. Did you know that not all cats living outdoors are truly feral? Many can be classified as semi-feral or stray, having had to adjust to living on the streets due to abandonment or being lost at some point. It is important to know that many of these cats can be socialized, if given the time and the opportunity to bond with humans. While it is not always the case, it would be wonderful to establish a program in which these cats were given the proper amount of time in which to be socialized. Many are judged quickly and too often are euthanized. Whatever your thoughts on this matter, please speak out to officials by calling or writing to their office. Sending letters to the editors of local newspapers is also imperative. Let's get more people involved in advocating for these cats so that programs can be established and maintained county and nationwide!

The Importance of Our Volunteers


Truthfully, we could not exist without the support of volunteers. We would like to thank all those who have contributed at the sanctuary by feeding, socializing, and cleaning. The animals on-site have benefited greatly from interacting with all of you who have taken the time to meet and spend time with them. If you know anyone who is interested in volunteering at the site, please let them know that we currently conduct volunteer orientation sessions two times per month at the sanctuary. It is a great opportunity to contribute to the welfare of our animals. Again, thank you to all who have supported the sanctuary, on every level.

Sunday, August 27, 2006

Norman and Ferdy




Norman and Ferdy, seen here, are two recent temporary additions to the sanctuary flock. Norman, featured on the left, with Ferdy to the right, have enjoyed their time at the sanctuary and love to graze and nuzzle one another. Both will soon be living at another rescue site and we are glad to have the opportunity to work with other concerned rescue groups and sanctuaries in assisting all animals in need. It has been a great joy to spend time with Norman and Ferdy!

Sunday, August 20, 2006

CSU Freshmen Visit the Sanctuary

The Sanctuary had a great visit from CSU freshmen students on Saturday! They rolled into the drive in a retired greyhound bus, my what the neighbors must think! This was a very productive group of students. They had a good time hanging out with Jeb, the 26 year old mule, Adam and Dangles, the two pot bellied pigs, Brick and Keya, our 10 year old pups, and helping to build dog houses!

Saturday, August 19, 2006

Speaking Out Against Brutality

It is often difficult to imagine that humane policies towards animals are not enforced. I have recently viewed some of the horrific photographs of dogs in China being strangled, beaten, and mutiliated due to an outbreak of rabies in humans. Currently, there are no exisiting laws in China that dictate that individuals vaccinate companion animals. It is sorrowful to view these beautiful creatures being so cruelly tortured and I urge individuals to contact the Chinese Embassy and voice your concern for the way in which these dogs are being treated. While it sometimes feels that we do everything we can to make a difference in the lives of animals in our own country, we must speak out for those worldwide, as well. Leaving a polite and brief message at the Embassy can make a world of difference! The Chinese Embassy can be reached by calling {202} 328-2500, {202} 328-2501, or {202} 328-2502. Thank you for speaking out for these animals!

Saturday, August 12, 2006

"Settling In"






We would like to thank all of the many volunteers and individuals who have donated their time and efforts in order to make the transition to the new site a success! Check out the photographs of our sanctuary animals grazing, enjoying the landscape and settling in to their new home. Feel free to come out and visit the new site and spend time with some of our beloved animal friends!

Saturday, July 22, 2006

Bright Eyes Update!

Bright Eyes has found a wonderful home with a family that has another blind and deaf Dachshund. They are familiar with her issues and have a lot of experience dealing with it.

This has been amazing! It has been great to know that Bright Eyes will be in a wonderful, forever, and loving home!

Friday, July 14, 2006

Bright Eyes


Bright Eyes is a beautiful 9 week old Doxen puppy. She is both blind and deaf, but has a very outgoing personality, loves to play and has a great sense of smell! She will be looking for a new home here in a week or so, it will have to be a very special place!

Monday, July 03, 2006

Update on Neglected Horses from December






























It has been six months since four miniature horses entered the sanctuary due to owner neglect. Many of you donated money and time towards the care of these precious little beings.

Lena, a three year old mare, Annabelle, her 15 year old mother, Coal, approximately 5 years old and still a stallion and Shelby, a gray dapple gelding were all taken in by our sanctuary in December, they were the lucky ones. One little two year old mare was not so lucky, she did not make it, and was dead upon our arrival to rescue the others.

Thanks to a good diet, plenty of excercise and TLC from our very best supporters, these little minis have blossomed into beautiful beings! The mares are still having some problems shedding out, this is due to malnourishment, lack of protein and minerals before entering the sanctuary. Over the past six months, we have been working hard to get their weight back up, hooves trimmed and itchy, dry skin, moist again! Enjoy the pictures!

Saturday, June 17, 2006

A trip through Navajo country

On a recent trip into California, I travelled through Navajo Country. I remember growing up in this area, barren and desolate, water is scarce, life can be very hard.

I can't help but remince about my experiences on these reservations. I loved it, fit right in, it was never foreign to me to see these people and what little they had because I identified with them. They have a lot of family nearby always and they don't need what they don't have. We used to be able to play baseball with a Navajo family near Canyon De Chelly.

My first memory of meeting this Navajo man and his family is of the many dogs he had chained up around his house. They were thin as are most reservation dogs and I, being the animal lover I was started to run over to them to give them a pet, only to hear the blasted warning from my father " no! don't pet those dogs!". Back then I thought he was just plain mean for not wanting me to pet that poor creature.

Now I understand. They were full of fleas and ticks, could have had rabies and were practically starving. I grew up with this and so it became second nature to see. We used to help my dad guide tours into Canyon De Chelly. We watched many a tour bus and a few horses get caught in quick sand, the buses rarely made it out. I remember all of the horses making it though. I met an old lady who lives in the heart of that canyon, probably never has seen civilization as we know it. She still lived in a hogan and had a pretty nomadic way of life, herding her sheep and surviving off of the land.

On this last trip through this country, I encountered many starving horses staring at us as we drove by with a yearning look in their eye, not all of them, but many. The land has nothing to offer them, the drought has hit hard and water is scarce. They have no home and no one to care for them, though they may have at some point. The Navajo people that live on these reservations have nothing really for themselves let alone their animals. Where is the funding in place to care for these horses, dogs and other animals? What if there could be a way to come up with it?

There are many horse rescues caring for horses that go through the sale barns and would otherwise be on their way to slaughter had these people not rescued them, but what about these reservation horses, is it better for them to starve to death rather than encountering that slaughter truck? I ask myself these questions thinking that it is definitely the lesser of two evils. But I can't help but think, what if we could come up with a way to fund hay and veterinary services for these animals? Would the Navajo people be open to us helping?

Just food for thought.............................

Thank you!

Denkai Animal Sanctuary would like to thank all of those who have assisted in making the move to the new sanctuary site a success. It has been a busy time and we could not have made this move without the help of dedicated volunteers! For those who have donated items to the sanctuary and monetary funds, your compassion and dedication to our cause is also greatly appreciated. We have over twenty bags of Senior Grain awaiting pickup at J&T Country Feed and are so thankful for those who have donated! I don't believe that we can say "thank you" enough, but we truly are grateful for the support and dedication of all those involved. The animals are doing well at the new site and we hope to see all of you soon! Keep reading the blog...we will be posting photographs of the new site very soon!

For volunteer opportunities, e-mail your inquiries to volunteer@denkaisanctuary.org and again, thank you!!

Remember Emmie?





















Emmie continues to prosper in her new home. Can you believe that she was living on the streets a little less than four months ago? Emmie is comfortable in her surroundings and enjoys talking, eating, and lounging in bed.

Would you like to volunteer your time at our new sanctuary site helping to socialize the animals? We would love to work with individuals willing to spend time talking to, grooming, and walking the animals in our care. There are many horses, pigs, goats, and dogs on site that would benefit from positive human interactions. Consider sponsoring an animal and spending time building a wonderful relationship!

Emmie is a shining example of what socialization, patience, and love can do in order to help to rehabilitate animals once abandoned, abused, and or neglected. We hope that you will consider spending time with some of our animals! We welcome all those who would like to volunteer their time and will train you in techniques that will help in the socialization process of the animals. Hope to see you soon!

Friday, May 05, 2006

In Memory of Chex

Chex was a gorgeous black quarterhorse.

The first time I laid eyes on him, I thought he looked just like Black Beauty! The only difference was that Chex had EPM, a type of menengitis in horses. His days with us were to be limited, but we were determined to give it our all for him.

Chex became fast friends with Justin, another one of our old men here at the Sanctuary. They rarely left each other's side. Chex enjoyed his special priveledges here, like roaming through the pasture at will and having his daily snack of senior grain, not to mention the yummy apples and carrots that came with our dedicated volunteers.

I have never met an animal so full of life and one who has fought so hard to maintain it. His wasn't an easy one. At the age of 24 he shed off the outside of his hooves and lost a tremendous amount of weight due to neglect and EPM, usually this is where it would end for a horse in this position.

Chex was not ready, he fought this and won. This is where he enters our Sanctuary. He had regained his hoof wall and much of his weight. He was just a bit wobbly on his hind end and has had some days that just didn't feel well, but his will to live never faltered.

We all knew that he would eventually fall and not be able to get back up. This would be a hard day. We hoped it would never come. Today it did. While I write this, I can't help but have watery eyes. I found him laying down and called in reinforcements, our farrier, our veterinarian and we sat with him all day, feeding, watering, pain killers, trying everything. He could not get up, the day had come.

So with happiness that Chex had come to us and lived his life out with friends and beings who all loved him, we let him go, thankful he had not ended up on a truck headed for slaughter a year ago.

We love you Chex and will always think of you!

Chex's picture can be found on our website under sponsor animals

Donations are also needed to help with our veterinary bills for this, approximately $265.00

Bear Update

I stopped over yesterday to visit Bear at the Mutt Hutt. Wow! She has grown by leaps and bounds! She is at least double the size she was and still growing! Kristie has done a great job with her!

Her pins will come out of her leg in 2 weeks and her funnel will be off of her head finally! I'm sure she is looking very forward to that!

She is very, very sweet and will be looking for her new home very soon!

Thursday, May 04, 2006

It's Sam, again!















Sam just wanted to make sure that everyone knows how cute he is! These are two more pictures of Sam, who has found a new home with Jenna Mollman. As you can see, Sam enjoys playing, sleeping, and just being loved!

Sunday, April 30, 2006

A Truly Happy Ending!


Doesn't Sam look happy? Well, he is and it looks like he loves smiling at everyone! Sam has found happiness at his new home and Jenna Mollman reports that Sam is an "awesome dog" who loves lots and lots of attention! Jenna, thank you so much for opening your heart and home to Sam! We are glad to know that he is doing great!

Wednesday, April 26, 2006


With all of the many animals in need, veterinary bills are abundant. South Mesa Veterinary Hospital has been very generous in their services to us.

Recently we have had a number of emergency cases come through, raising our veterinary bills to approximately $1000.00. We need help with these. If you are willing or able to bake dog treats and bring them to South Mesa, we are able to pay some of the bill through donations given in exchange for these dog treats. Or if you would rather make a monetary donation, feel free to call South Mesa Directly at (970) 226-6526 and talk with Sarah Swanty or the receptionist.

Or, you can make a donation through our website and paypal by visitiing our homepage at www.denkaisanctuary.org

Cats and Kittens Rescued



Just yesterday we had yet another rescue of cats and kittens. This time, a mother cat, just six months old nursing three 4 day old kittens. Her littermate and Mother also arrived with them. The older mother had a litter of kittens of which none survived.

Of the three kittens nursing on the younger mother, one is having to be supplemented and we are worried about its chances of survival.

Sarah Swanty, a very valuable volunteer, has been helping to nurse this baby and assist momma cat. We need help caring for these and many other cats like them through donations of cat and kitten food, KMR (formula for kittens), cat litter, litter pans, dishes and veterinary services.

Tuesday, April 18, 2006

New Fort Collins Cattery!






Well we are officially in our new Cattery thanks to the help of the Scratchin Post, an upscale cat boarding facility here in Fort Collins.

We are housing our adoptable cats and kittens in this new location, so if you are looking for a new pet, swing on by and visit us in the afternoons from 3pm to 7pm or on Sundays from 12pm to 5pm

Location: 2321 E. Mulberry St. #2 Fort Collins, CO 80524
Phone: (970) 308-6275

A Great Recovery!



Lizzie was just a puppy when I was called in to rescue her. She is a Shar-pei/Pit Bull mix. She was found near railroad tracks and had been forced to eat straight corn in order to stay alive. This was the middle of winter. She had no fur left, only bloody lesions all over her body. Her eyes were infected to the point that she could hardly open them, let alone see.

The Sanctuary took her in, bathed her wounds and medicated her eyes. We began slowly introducing her to her new dog food. Her feces were straight corn, she had been living on only that. Lizzie was so trusting of us from the start and was incredibly friendly. She loved other dogs and liked to chase cats!

One fine day, Kristie Fischer of the Mutt Hutt, Inc. Came over for a visit and when told of Lizzie's plight, she had to see her. Kristie's eyes immediately filled with tears at the sight of this poor and neglected animal. Finding it so hard to believe that somebody could possibly do this!

Kristie, having the enormous heart that she has, took Lizzie in and after thousands of dollars in veterinary and other bills, Lizzie is now whole again! She is incredibly happy in her permanent home with Kristie and Scott Fischer and has her very own yard to play in! She and Krisitie's great dane, have a blast together running in circles and playing!

Thank youKristie, for your selfless acts and kindness towards all of these animals!

Foster a Dog and Become a Friend for Life!

Who can forget about Tyson? Tyson is just one example of the many sweet spirited dogs in need of sponsorship and new homes. Along with Tyson, there are other dogs at the sanctuary that are in need of a second chance. Are you the right person to sponsor or adopt one of our dogs? Please visit our website and view the animals that are available for adoption. Summer is a wonderful time to introduce a new pup to the family. Many of these dogs, like Tyson, Patty, and Penny, need a chance to hike in the mountains, run in the backyard, and play in the summer sun. Always ensure that your dog has enough water, shade, and or shelter from the heat. For those in need of vaccinations for their animals, please note that there is a low cost vaccination clinic this Saturday, April 22, 2006, from 10:00 a.m.-3:oo p.m. at J&T Country Feeds in Greeley!

Emmie, The Confident Kitty!



Emmie is doing just fine in her new home! She is feeling comfortable and confident, and, most importantly, happy. With kitten season already here, there are many kittens and adult cats, like Emmie, in need of adoption. Please feel free to come and visit us at our new cattery in Fort Collins. We would again like to express our gratitude to the Scratchin' Post. Emmie is living proof that a little patience goes a long way! Given time to explore and settle in to her new surroundings, Emmie is truly comfortable in her new home. As with all of our kittens and cats, we are always searching for both foster and permanent homes in which they can build a new life. If you have the time and capability to be a foster parent, please contact us. It is a very important job that takes dedication, reliability, and trust. We hope to see you soon and thank all of you for your support!

Monday, April 03, 2006

Hugs for Tyson


Tyson, a beautiful two year old Pointer mix, is seen here at mobile adoptions receiving a hug from one of our most devoted volunteers, Jane. We are happy to report that Tyson has found a foster home! Foster homes are critical to the animals of Denkai and all animals in need of adoption. It is a time for them to learn to build relationships with human beings and possibly other animals. Most importantly, it is a time for them to learn to trust, and sometimes to heal. Tyson is a gentle dog and loves to be with humans and animals, alike. We are sure that he will do well in his new foster home and thank those that are able to take the time to work with animals in need, such as Tyson.

Time Spent With Isabelle and Diesel

Isabelle and Diesel, two resident pups of Denkai Animal Sanctuary are currently available for adoption. Siblings, they were found on a doorstep, in Craig, Colorado and brought to the sanctuary. Isabelle and Diesel represent so many of the dogs and cats in our community, those that are neglected and in need of a fresh start. Isabelle and Diesel shown here, at PetSmart, are meeting and greeting potential new families. Mobile Adoption Weekends are truly emerging as great opportunites to give animals like Isabelle and Diesel a second chance. We know that they have lots of fun going for walks, playing with one another and meeting lots of new friends. They are playful and loving and we know that they will meet the family that will love them forever!

Friday, March 31, 2006

Bear Update!


Bear has been staying at the Mutt Hutt in Windsor, with owner Kristy Fischer. She is recovering very well and has been happy in her temporary home. She has to wear a funnel to keep from pulling her metal pins out of her leg and will be going in to South Mesa for her check ups soon! We will be needing another temp foster home for her soon while she heals.

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

A Second Chance



Emmie was rescued over a month ago on a volunteer basis. A tired road warrior, Emmie came in from the cold and is now living in my home . She is representative of the many stray and feral cats that are roaming our towns and cities. We can sometimes feel overwhelmed by the number of animals that are in need of a fresh start with a new family. In the case of Emmie, she needed a patient individual, willing to slowly help her to acclimate to her new surroundings. Socializing cats can sometimes be a lengthy and difficult process, as some have never been in the company of human beings. The "semi" feral cats, like Emmie, can usually be rehabilitated and go on to live with a human family. Most were at one point domestic and living with humans. They become fearful when living outdoors for extended periods of time. Denkai Animal Sanctuary currently has four cats that are in immediate need of foster homes. If anyone would like to volunteer as a foster parent to any of the four cats at the sanctuary, please call us as soon as possible. We will help you through the process. Mother cats are very resourceful and able to care independently for their offspring. We truly just need individuals willing to give these cats a safe environment in which to give birth and ween their litter. While Emmie represents success, we all have to remember to do our best to help these brave street survivors. If anyone needs any tips about what to do when coming in contact with stray & or feral cats, stray dogs, etc., please do not hesitate to call us. Emmie is sleeping on her green blanket now, purring and drifting off to sleep. She has found a home and is truly content. A Siamese/Himalayan mix, she likes to voice her opinion and let everyone know how she feels!! I will update everyone in the near future, about Emmie and her socialization process. Again, let us know if you're interested in fostering any of the four female cats at the sanctuary.

~Shanon Chalmers

Thursday, March 23, 2006

A Word from Bailey!


I am now two and a half weeks old and still growing! I'm even starting to drink water now like a real goat!! A couple days ago I had a new start to my day. I ate breakfast and pooped as usual. Then I decided to walk backwards into my poop and to make things even messier I used my poopy foot to scratch my head, leg, and pretty much the left side of my body. I didn't see what the problem was but Tiffany didn't seem to be too thrilled with my new look. Needless to say, I got my first bath. Although I wasn't too excited about getting bathed, I was a very good goat and I am now clean and fluffy.

I am making new friends as well. Tiffany's dog, Rico, has really warmed up to me and enjoys running around with me and sometimes kisses my nose. Soon I will make more friends at the sanctuary. I may even be going back as soon as tomorrow. I'm growing so big and I'm really starting to act like a real goat (well a goat who LOVES to get pet). Tiffany is sad to let me go but I know she will be visiting me quite frequently:)