Archie

Weeks before we got Archie, our beloved Cairn Joe died of cancer. This left an enormous hole in our hearts. We still have his brother who is twelve and diabetic. We were interested in bringing a new face into our home and knew we did not want to support the breeding facilities. My wife came across Colonel Potter Rescue, this seemed like the answer to our needs. It only took around 6 weeks to find our little Archie. Six weeks seems like a long time when your heart is aching but it was well worth the wait.

When Archie came he got along with Mike our oldest Cairn almost immediately. Mike showed him the ropes and helped teach him the rules and Archie caught on quickly. Archie loves Mike and just wishes Mike was younger and had more stamina and patience to match up with his two year old energy and zest for life.

Kitty (cat) on the other hand has still not gained Archie's respect. When they first met and for the first few weeks Archie was sure his job was to terrorize Kitty. They are coexisting nicely now and that may be as good as it gets, time will tell. Archie periodically just enjoys reminding Kitty who is boss.

So much for how he interacts with the other animals in the house how does he do with us? He is an absolute joy. His love and respect is not given but earned. Once you have it however you have a fast friend for life. He is happiest when he is with us and when he has the opportunity he is either in your lap, on your shoulder or just inches behind you as you walk along. He loves to fetch his kong and throw his duck toy, both of these came with him. He has tons of toys but these are his favorites. I suppose they symbolize for him when his life changed forever.

Archie now rules a large fenced backyard which he loves to patrol against pesky squirrels and birds that invade his turf.

We are very fortunate to have found Archie and I am pretty sure he feels the same. The only people he comes in contact with now are those who love and care for him. He has left the world of the breeding facility far behind and is pleased to enjoy the better things in life.

Teresa, myself, Mike, Kitty and Archie would like to thank Colonel Potter for bringing us together!

Blue Berry, now Kirby Blue

After moving to Houston, Texas, from Ohio, I decided it was time to grow my little household that had consisted of me and my 4-year-old tuxedo cat, Chloe. I had no clue where to start looking for a dog, but I knew I wanted a small one, and I knew I wanted a rescue. Several internet searches led me to Petfinder, which led me to the "Cairn terrier." What kind of dog was this? I'd never heard of such a dog. However, their pictures were so endearing, I just had to find out more. Again I went to the internet to look up anything I could find on cairns. It turns out; THIS was exactly the kind of dog I was looking for! After going through the application process, I began working with my matchmaker. I *thought* I knew which dog I wanted; however, it turns out this particular dog was very aggressive toward cats, so she wouldn't be a good match. I was beginning to panic that maybe the right dog for me just wasn't out there! I began looking through all the dog profiles again, and this time one little guy caught my eye--why hadn't I seen him before? There was sweet little Blue, right here in Houston! At 8 years old, he was older than what I had originally been looking for, but once I read his story, I knew I couldn't resist meeting this guy! After many years of being used to breed puppies and being neglected, he was more than ready to find a loving home and live the second half of his life in luxury. Right away I let my matchmaker know I was interested in Blue, and she put me in touch with his foster mom. Surprise! She was the lady who had done my home visit! All of a sudden, I remembered her parting words as she left the day she came to my apartment for the home visit: "Remember, if you don't get the dog you want, there are so many more good ones out there!" (HINT, HINT) The first time she brought Blue to meet me, I knew I had to adopt this boy. Turns out he was already used to cats, and he and Chloe actually showed interest in each other! Needless to say, I moved full speed ahead to adopt him. It was August 26th when he came home, just 3 days before my 29th birthday--the best present I've ever gotten. I've been told that when the adoption was finalized, a resounding cheer from Col. Potter-ites was audible across the nation, as this sweet boy had been patiently waiting for his forever home for over a year.

Since then, he has been renamed Kirby Blue, and we've had quite a few adventures together. We have flown on planes, we've gone to the dog park, we've taken road trips, we've dressed up for Halloween, and we've even gone on the road to promote Col. Potter. He loves coming to work with me at the nursing home and patiently waits for the little old ladies to reach their hands down from their wheelchairs to pet him. He and Chloe get along very well, and I've even caught them cuddling during naps. Not a place do we go where someone doesn't comment on what a gentleman my Kirby is, and how well he behaves (of course, I can't take the credit for that--his foster mom really did all that groundwork!). He loves getting attention and follows his mama EVERYWHERE! No one would ever believe this spunky, energetic ball of fur is 8 years old, because he's always up for a walk or any other kind of adventure that may be at hand. What a wonderful sound it is when we go to sleep at night and I hear his contented *sigh* before he falls asleep, knowing my boy knows he's safe, loved, and always will be. "There's no place like home!"

Bradlee

Our two boys had been asking for a dog for several years. They persisted in their desire for a dog as they reached ages 10 and 6, and learned more of what was involved in taking care of a dog. So, our family's search for a dog began.

We began keeping up with Bradlee's progress on the Cairn Terrier Rescue site in the summer. We were hoping to find a dog within a reasonable driving distance so we could see the dog and observe how he reacted with the kids before going any further with the adoption process. As we read more Bradlee updates, we were definitely interested. So we e-mailed his foster family (Wayne and Ann) about Bradlee.

When Bradlee showed up at our house to visit, our first impression was that he was soooo cute just walking in the door. He and the boys were instant friends. Bradlee and the boys played fetch off and on for over 2 hours. He was petted and played with and talked to and generally fawned over. And then he had to leave. We filled out the application that night.

Bradlee came to live with us just a couple weeks later; he is the perfect dog for our family. His transition has been completely uneventful thanks to his foster parents, Wayne and Ann, who gave him a home of trust and love. Once he came to us, all we had to do was continue their lead. He has seemed to adjust to us all wonderfully and fits the rhythm of our family so well. He doesn't seem to mind being sedate when we are all busy. But then, at the next moment, he is more than ready to play or be petted. We wondered if a nine-year-old dog would really be a good choice for children. But Bradlee has more than enough energy to keep up with all of us. We still marvel at how fast he is when he retrieves his tennis ball, one of his favorite games. We know how fortunate we are that Bradlee came to us with such wonderful habits already in place. He welcomes each of the boys as they come home from school, yet he doesn't try to run out the door when it opens. He was already trained to come and get you when he needs to go outside. He rarely barks except when he sees a squirrel or cat run across the backyard. He doesn't mind baths: actually seems to enjoy them. He isn't picky about what to eat and allows you to come near him when he's eating. He doesn't jump on the furniture. He doesn't jump up at all except when he's trying to get your attention to play and you don't respond fast enough. He's pretty good with "sit" and "stay" commands. He likes to play catch outside and likes to curl up with our youngest son and listen to a story at bedtime.

He has settled in so well and we have all come to love having him in our family. We prayed that God would lead us to the right dog for our family and He certainly did.

Brandy

I wanted to add my two cents worth about adopting a senior dog. I adopted Brandy, aged 9-1/2, almost two weeks ago. She is my second "senior" adoption. Brandy is an angel -- never chews on anything, doesn't pee in the house, needs just 3 walks a day. She is absolutely perfect for a working, single woman such as myself who would struggle to find the time to properly care for and train a puppy.

This contrast was really driven home when we spent several days at Christmas with various family members who have Cairns, including my parents who have a 5-month-old puppy. The puppy (Pico) is adorable, but NEVER stops moving, chewing, jumping, and in general, acting puppyish. Nothing wrong with that -- in fact, he's positively delicious -- but the contrast with my stately and sedate (not to mention low-maintenance) Brandy was eye-popping. After 5 days, my parents were so taken with Brandy (and exhausted by Pico!) that I thought they were going to force a trade on me, and I'd have to go home with Pico instead! (Fat chance!)

The moral of the story is simply this: I think a "senior" dog would be ideal for almost anyone (by the way, if Brandy had her way, I think she'd object to being called "senior" in the first place, since she probably has 7-8 years left, making her more middle-aged than senior!). Brandy is a ready-made, pre-trained companion -- who could ask for more? I hope we can all spread the word and try to find forever homes for the "mature" pooches in our foster homes. I promise, the adoptive families won't regret it!

Buddy

It is about a six hour drive from Medina, OH to Oscoda, MI. Buddy spent five and one half of those hours sitting on the fold-down arm rest, pressed against me as tightly as he could. The other 30 minutes were spent laying on the seat with his front paws and head resting on my right thigh. Looking back on it, how sad that any pet is made to feel so insecure and unwanted that they would feel the need to seek love from a total stranger this way. Actually, I wasn't a total stranger. I had arrived in Medina the previous evening and had the opportunity to visit Buddy at his foster home. He and the resident Cairn, Max, were doing their usual rough housing and tug-of-war things. At first, Buddy was apprehensive about a new face in the house, but he quickly adjusted and was up on the couch getting petted within a short time.

Buddy, obviously, is our adopted Cairn. He is more accurately a Cairn mix, but mostly Cairn. He came from a physically and verbally abusive home and was rescued by the CPCRN people. At about the same time Buddy was being rescued, our pet of 14 years, Misty, was saying good-bye. Her health problems were insurmountable. Probably it was coinsidence, but it would be nice to think it was just meant to be; I called the phone number of the person fostering Buddy, went through the adoption process, and picked up our new pet all within a really short period of time. Probably we needed Buddy as much as he needed us.

What a treat! We had mentioned that we were looking for a dog that showed affection, and did we ever find one! We jokingly refer to him having "the face only a mother could love:" big brown eyes framed by one ear that can't stand fully up, and one lower incisor that slants outward a little too much. However, this guy is just as sharp as can be and full of love and affection. He still seeks out that reassuring touch from us all the time. His favorite position is laying on the floor next to the recliner so that I can reach down and pet him, or at least just rest my hand on him. He just loves it (so do I).

When we first got Buddy, there was some concern about his socialization skills both with people and with other dogs. It quickly became obvious that the people part wasn't going to be a problem. Nine strangers (to Buddy) were in the house at Christmas time. Nine strangers were all being kind and loving to Buddy. House guests are not a problem anymore. On a leash, Buddy likes to be able to smell and investigate you first, and then initiate the contact, rather than having you hover over him and reach out at him. Yet, he likes to meet new people and he likes the attention they give him. Buddy licks. That's how he lets you know he's around. He nudges you with his nose and gives your hand, knee, pantleg, whatever is at nose level, a quick lick. This seems to announce his presence and request some petting time.

We are still working (and will be for some time) on Buddy's socialization skills regarding other dogs he meets. It will be a long process, but some minor progress is being made.

Now, both of the humans in this house are college educated. So you would assume that with Buddy doing well, responding to commands, learning some simple commands (sit, stay, down, etc.), that we would be pretty happy and satisfied.

Rascal is a Cairn Terrier puppy, now 4 months old. We brought him home about two months ago. Buddy adjusted well and pretty quickly. We let the two of them spend time with us, free, in the living room in ever increasing increments. We began with about 5 minutes and we are now at unlimited.

To anyone who has one pet (as we did for all the years prior to 2002), two is definitely better. It has been the most enjoyable time ever watching Buddy teach Rascal how to be a dog: how to stretch out and sleep on the carpet; how to lift a leg; how to nibble grass along the walk route; how to investigate smells; how to play tug of war with toys. Little Rascal tags along after Buddy like a little brother, imitating all that he does. Rascal doesn't know what he is doing half the time, but does it anyhow because Buddy does it.

Buddy will sit with his head cocked to one side, ear flopped down, tooth sticking out, safely away from the latest devastation caused by Rascal and looking innocent: almost telling you with his eyes that he didn't do that awful thing. He knows that it was bad and that he tried to stop Rascal, but that misbehaving puppy just wouldn't listen to him.

While romping in the woods, Rascal comes from 15 - 20 yards behind, streaks past Buddy, and gives him a quick nip on the neck as he passes by. This happens at least 20 - 30 times each evening on our walk. Eventually, Buddy takes the bait and the chase is on. Buddy, being extremely strong, likes to run along side Rascal and stick his snout under Rascal to flip him over. Rascal likes to hightail it to a tree and hide behind it or under low hanging branches where he thinks he is safe from Buddy. Buddy then gives up the chase, heads back up the trail, Rascal again comes from behind, nips at Buddy, and away we go, all over again.

Both of our lives are enriched by having Buddy as a part of our family. His foster mom wouldn't even know him as the same dog, behavior-wise. While it's true we adopted Buddy and gave him a home, and we can never make up for the abuse he had to innocently suffer, it is the two of us humans that are the fortunate ones. We are receiving so much more from this relationship than Buddy. The folks at the CPCRN keep making these situations possible, and that's a gift to the animals and a blessing to the humans. Thank you to everyone involved, especially Michele.

Buddy has a family and he is home to stay. He will never again suffer abuse. Buddy is happy -- and probably ready for another doggy treat!

Buster (l) & Spunky (r)

We are the proud parents of a five year old Cairn, Spunky. He is our first Cairn, and what a delight -- although there have been moments of various shades of delight. After seeing several friends that were "multiple dog families", we began to think that Spunky must be lonely. Well, after all, who would want to be the only human in an entire world of dogs? (Although, some days, it does sound quite attractive!)

We began to seek out a friend for Spunky. I went to the Petfinders page. I typed in Cairn. This certain dog kept coming up with almost every search. Day after day I went in, just browsing. And every day that I browsed, there was this dog, Buster: twelve years old, one eye missing, one eye bad. Compared to those cutsey little puppies, all fluff and wiggles, well, he really looked a bit rough, but the more I read about him, the more I thought about him. As more time went by, the more often I thought about him. I contacted the Rescue and Katie was so nice! Everyone that I encountered was so friendly. Buster had been rescued on the very day that he was scheduled to be put to sleep! A severe thunder shower had caused a delay in the shelter's operations, one thing led to another, postponing Buster's meeting with death.

Well, this was just too much. My heart ached for this little rag-a-muffin with the face of love. I scheduled an appointment for Katie to bring Buster for a visit. No small job, as she had to drive about 5 hours to do this: what dedication! Then I told my husband, "I found a dog on the internet." It really sounded much worse than it was. Paul groaned. "But," I whined, "he is homeless, and nearly blind, and just so loveable looking." He knew he couldn't argue: it was useless just from my tone of voice. "Well," he asked hesitantly, "how old is this dog?" That was the major obstacle. Paul was really skeptical about bringing an old, blind dog into the house, that is, until he met Buster.

Buster came to visit and Katie cried. He spent so much time in the outside pen smelling all the new country smells; he wagged and wagged and wagged his tail until I thought his tail would wag right off! You could almost hear him thinking to himself: "Oh, I smell a horse, oh, and what is that? A donkey! And sheep! I smell sheep, and lots of them! Oh boy, oh boy, I am gonna like it here!"

Katie had a really hard time letting go of Buster, and rightfully so. Anyone that has met this little guy is just amazed at his attitude. The poor little fellow had been through an awful lot: being given up by people that just didn't care where he was, almost being put to sleep, having lost one eye to a tumor, and his remaining eye was infected and most likely, painful. However, this little guy just kept on wagging that tail! It is like his whole attitude in life is "Hey, I am alive! I am out and about and my tail can wag. Life is GOOD!" Not to mention, he is a wicked snuggler. Take him in your arms, and it is instant love.

Well, Katie left Buster with us on a trial basis. Needless to say, the trial went very well. He and Spunky are not the close bossom-buddies that I had expected, but they get along very well, their boundries are well established, and I think Spunky is very happy to have a companion.

In September, surgery was performed on Buster to remove his eye. This was a really tough decision to make, but it came to the point that there was just no other option. Since his recovery, Buster has shown much more energy and has become very playful. Buster has become such a special part of our lives. In his own unique way, he taught me alot about life: number one, slow down. Life is short. There is no way that you can hurry a blind dog when he is outside enjoying the smells. So, adjust. Thank you, Buster.

And thank you to Katie, Danielle, and everyone in the Rescue. May no one out there ever hesitate to adopt an older dog: special needs or not. If they pull your heart strings, there is a reason for it. There is a lesson that dog needs to teach you. Let it happen.

Cayla

Cayla & Toto

Until a month ago, my husband Irv and I were blessed for 12 years with a beautiful pair of male and female Cairn Terriers: Toto and Lammy. We had purchased Toto from a pet store, and Lammy from a private breeder. For 12 years, the two of them were soul mates and they were our babies: filling our lives with unconditional love and pure joy.

In mid-October, we lost little Lammy to a tumor that snuffed out her life quickly. We were devastated, and Toto was so sad and lost without his soul mate that it broke our hearts. It was an unbearable loss, leaving the three of us crippled with grief and clinging to each other for solace.

Then I remembered something a friend at our local humane society had told me about: rescue groups who foster abandoned and abused dogs of various breeds until they can find homes for them. With a flicker of hope, I hit the Internet in search of a rescue group for Cairn Terriers.

I happened immediately upon the Col. Potter site. When I studied the photos and stories of Cairns available for adoption, I was deeply touched. I knew then that we needed one of those little Cairns as badly as those little dogs needed homes. I quickly submitted our application on the Col. Potter site, hoping from the bottom of my heart that we'd be approved and that there would be a little female rescue Cairn for us. Through our work with our local humane society, we had learned that buying a puppy from a store or breeder only promotes animal overpopulation. Instead, we wanted very much to give a loving home to a rescue Cairn.

Our Col. Potter application was approved in short order. When Michele called to tell me and to report that a little female Cairn named Cayla seemed to be a perfect match for us, we were thrilled. Michele then introduced us by email to Cayla's foster mom, Bonnie, who had been fostering Cayla since her rescue from a puppy mill. Several days later, we drove from our home in northern Michigan to Bonnie's home near Cleveland, Ohio with great hope in our hearts that Cayla would be the little girl for us.

When we got to Bonnie's home, she met us at the door with Cayla in her arms. It was love at first sight -- not just for us, but for Toto too. Bonnie and her husband Alan gave us all kinds of tips on Cayla's diet and needs, and Bonnie was so attached to Cayla that good-byes were very tearful. We parted from Bonnie and Alan's with little Cayla safely tucked in her crate in our car. On the long trip home, Toto nestled as close as he could to Cayla's crate, with his nose resting inside, and slept that way for hours.

We have now had Cayla in her forever home with us for two weeks. She has brightened our lives immeasurably, and Toto won't leave her side. When we look in Cayla's eyes, we can't help but feel that a part of Lammy's spirit lives on in her. We also see in her the loving touch of Bonnie, who first brought this scared and timid little 1-1/2 year old soul out of her shell. Now Cayla gives Irv and me a little bath of kisses when we bring our faces close to hers, just as we saw her do with Bonnie at her foster home.

Cayla is still a little fearful of the outdoors, which she never got to see in her puppymill life, but she's getting less timid each day. What a heartwarming thing it is to share her joy at discovering the simple pleasures of life: even a little leaf on the ground gives her a thrill. As we shower her with love, she showers us right back. I call her Cayla-la in a sing-song voice, and she drops whatever she's doing to come running to me.

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Col. Potter, to Michele, and especially to Cayla's foster mom, Bonnie. We're hoping that Bonnie and Alan will visit us next year, or that we can visit them. We want Bonnie, whose heart was big enough to nurture little Cayla for weeks and then give her up to us, to see the magic that a loving forever home has worked on her little Cayla. Bonnie will also see a big change in Toto, Irv, and me, because all three of us have learned to smile again.

Because a picture is worth a thousand words, to the left is a photo of Cayla snuggling up to Toto for a nap.

May God bless all of you at Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network, and especially the foster parents whose hearts are made of pure gold.

Churchill

Hi, my name is Farley and I am writing to thank the Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network for my new kid brother, Churchill. You see, Churchill and I have a lot in common. We both "lost our leases" at our previous homes, if you know what I mean. I've been living here with Mom and Dad for a year and a half. When they thought I was spending too much time laying on the couch and watching TV, they contacted these Col. Potter people about the Cairns they saw on their website. Now I have never met the Colonel myself and I understand he has crossed the great bridge, but he sure did leave behind a lot of people who really know what they're doing when it comes to us Cairns. Mom tells me they go to a whole lot of trouble to make sure the orphans find the best home so they can be as happy as me. Well, let me tell you, they couldn't have found a cooler brother for me than Churchill. Even though he is quite a bit younger than me, he lets me chase him, and sits with me in the sunny spots on the floor, and wrestles with me, and lets me play with his toys which I never found amusing before but all of a sudden make my tail wag. And he helps me keep an eye on our older sister who can't see or hear us. I'm still teaching him to go slow when he's around her 'cause she gets startled and yells at him. I try not to let him see me giggle when she puts him in his place. I know he likes it here, too, because he's always snuggling up to Mom and Dad and they have plenty of room to cuddle us all. He seems to like rolling on his back and chewing his nylabone but I guess that's because he's still a youngster and doesn't know any better. Come to think of it, I'm doing a few silly things myself these days. Well, that's about all I have to say for now. I sure do appreciate what all those nice people at CPCRN have done for Churchill. Especially his Auntie Gini who took care of him before he was ready to be my brother. I have to sign off, now. Churchill is up for a little game of tag and if I don't get down there, he'll start without me!

Crockett

Tanner & Crockett

Duncan

Our first Cairn, Duncan, recently passed away at the age of eight. Duncan had pancreatitis, then got diabetes and lost his vision. No matter what we did, he just seemed to get worse. He is buried out in the back yard with a white picket fence around his grave. I still miss him greatly.

I began a search for another Cairn immediately. During that search, we met Tanner through an independent rescue. Even though he was not a Cairn, we loved him immediately and decided to adopt him. Knowing we still wanted a Cairn, that rescue group referred us to Colonel Potter Cairn Rescue Network.

We adopted Crockett from Col Potter. He is a pleasure to have around and he got along fine with Tanner. Then, one day Tanner jumped off the bed and injured his back, leaving him without the use of his hind legs. Having already joined CairnRescueMentoring, Col Potter’s online discussion and support group, I mentioned Tanner’s injury. Danielle contacted me and said that there may be a possibility to get help in getting Tanner a cart to make him mobile again. A fundraiser was started for this purpose and we received enough to pay for the cart and help with mounting vet bills. We can never thank Col Potter enough. Tanner is now in his cart and can run just as fast as Crockett.

Crockett has become the protector of Tanner. His bed is next to Tanner’s pen and if Tanner moves, Crockett turns and looks at him. Last night while I was moving Tanner, he let out a little peep and I thought Crockett was going to have a fit. He jumped out of his bed and ran around the pen and looked at me as to say, “What are you doing to my buddy?”

Recently, we attended an informational meeting last night for a group called Project PUP “Pets Uplifting People.” This group takes dogs to rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities and a school for handicapped children. We are considering entering Tanner into this program, as he could be an inspiration to others.

CPCRN has played a major role in extending a helping hand not only to Tanner and us but also to many others through your generosity. We love all of you.

Bob, Saundra, Crockett and Tanner.

Daisey

We want to thank you for doing a courtesy listing of Daisey in Colorado. She was at the Longmont Humane Society. We lost our Cairn, Tiki, in December from a tumor around her kidney and were ready to adopt. We have another Cairn named Kona who was quite lonely. We found your listing, called Longmont, but were sad to hear that she had kennel cough and could not yet be adopted. We called daily to check on her status and finally was able to see her on a Sunday. The minute we saw her, we knew she was the one for us. The family who gave her up had abused her. She was debarked and would crouch down and shake when you put your hands down to pet her or hold her. We were also told that she had been very sick with the kennel cough. As a result of the debarking, whenever she drinks water, she coughs a lot as it irritates her throat. We adopted her on Mother's Day in May. She now knows that hands are good things that give love. She seems very happy and really enjoys her walks in the park. She also enjoys having a playmate and Kona is equally happy. She plays ball by hitting it with her nose and wants you to hit it back. She is deathly afraid of thunder and lightning, but we are working on that. She used to run and hide under a bed, shaking a lot. But now she runs to me so I can pick her up and hold her until it is over. We love her dearly. She is a wonderful addition to our family and we want to thank you again for making it all possible.

Col. Potter provides courtesy listings for Cairns in shelters and rescues all over the country. Because many of these dogs are safe and just need to find forever homes, we consider it our way of helping all Cairns get adopted. We appreciate Daisey's family thinking to send us this wonderful "different" Happy Ending story.

Doc

I lost my Shane to cancer on June 20, 2003. There is no harder way to lose a friend, a parent, or a loving companion that has been with you for seven years. There is no barking, no squeaky toys and no dog kisses. Life was very quiet and very lonely. Kitty tried to console me and did the best she could, but that really wasn't enough.

After four months, I was ready to start "the search" and knew Barb and John Schuster who are greatly involved with CPCRN, from a quilting run to Reno with some friends. I made the contacts with the awesome people at CPCRN and waited for my prince/princess. I met up with the "Cairn people" in Dixon, CA and made some wonderful new friends.

Doc came to me in October or November 2003. I can't really remember the month. It seems like I've had Doc a long, long time. He's 12 years young and doesn't really see or hear that well. He had quite a gait when he walked and slept a lot because he's an old coot! Doc Joyner went to see Doc Fred and they are friends. Doc Joyner has a clean bill of health and had three teeth removed last Thursday. He's been on Jointcare treats for three weeks and he is much improved in his walk, his attitude and his life.

As far as communication goes, I refuse to raise my voice at Doc to communicate since he is hard of hearing. I took a few classes in American Sign Language while working with a human Program Manager in the California Department of Rehabilitation. He was deaf and I learned sign language so I could talk to him and his assistant. With Doc, I use some simple signs and we have one or two "home signs" we use just between us. Doc is so smart. He is learning the signs very quickly and I reinforce a few times daily with treats. Doc is VERY treat motivated.

Doc is well traveled. He has been to two quilt guild meetings to show off his "blankie" made by his foster mom, Linda Wilder, especially for him. All of the ladies in the quilt guilds love him and I spoke a few minutes about Doc and CPCRN Cairn Rescue program. He is a perfect little gentleman everywhere we go.

Our lives are good and full. I needed Doc and he needed me. He did not replace anyone. He just entered my life and I am a better person for it.

Thank you to all of the volunteers at CPCRN.

Dunkin

Most dogs simply wag their tails. Some even get a little hip into the action when they're especially happy.
Dunkin wags his whole body.
And why not? In his third year, he finally has reason to be joyous.
Dunkin's first couple of years weren't much to wag about.
He spent much of his life in a small metal cage, brought out from time to time when nature called or when it was time to mate. Life in a puppy mill isn't much of a dog's life.
When his owners realized that his reproductive skills weren't churning out the kind of Cairn's that brought in the big bucks, he was deemed unworthy of stud status and was sent packing.
His classified ad in the local newspaper caught my wife Ellen's eye. She had also been in contact with the Colonel Potter Rescue Network and started to watch Dunkin's trail with open heart.
Something about him, although unseen had caught her attention.
Maybe it was just the void left when her beloved Pee Wee answered his maker's calling after nearly 13 years of inseparable companionship. Maybe it was fate.
Whatever it was, it would turn out to be a good thing for the tail waggingest critter you've ever seen.
Dunkin was eventually taken by a lady and her daughter, only to be dumped back into the classifieds when the women's husband objected.
Lonely, confused, and by this time in bad health from neglect, he finally arrived in the loving hands of Darlene Simpson, a volunteer with Colonel Potter.
That's when Ellen finally came in contact with the dog she had followed through print and computer.
The first eye to eye wasn't impressive. Dunkin was skinny and walked awkwardly. His coat hadn't been taken care of and he suffered from hook worms.
He was extremely skiddish.
That's when you noticed the deep, dark eyes that cried to be loved. There was hope for this mutt. There was something about him.
And Ellen saw it.
I want him, Ellen told Darlene, starting the process followed by Colonel Potter in all of its rescue placements.
There were references to be contacted and Colonel Potter quickly found that ours was a home where dogs were spoiled beyond belief. They are our children, as we have none of the two legged variety.
The medical records for Pee Wee and his remaining girlfriend Katy proved that we had stake in the profit margin at Timberlake Animal Hospital.
And the visit paid to our house by rescue workers Ann & Wayne Stainback hinted at Ellen's obsession for order and cleanliness. Pee Wee's shrine in the hallway by the front door was proof that Ellen loves her Cairns.
We were given the "Good Dogkeeping Seal" of approval, and Dunkin had finally found a home where his loving nature would finally be appreciated.
Thinking he was used to sleeping in a cage, we borrowed one for his first night in his new home. He glanced at it, looked at our bed and immediately leaped onto the mattress.
He sleeps there, cuddled close to Ellen, every night.
He stretches long each morning and reaches for attention. He loves to be loved, and he appears extremely happy with his new parents, and his still playful 12 year-old new girlfriend Katy.
And everytime you see him, he gives you that amazing full-body wag.

Frank

Radar

Oh my Gawd! The Mash Unit has arrived. What cute little guys we have now! We absolutely LOVE having these little men in our lives. This was a match made in heaven. If there is any way I can do a testimonial for adopting an older Cairn, please let me TRY. Frank is a Godsend for my husband, Dale. Dale has had more days in the hospital in these last three years than he has had out of the hospital. At the same time, he has had problems with his children (relationship-wise) and he was feeling so left out and wanted someone to love just him and bond with him. Low and behold, Frank flew in yesterday and attached himself to Dale. You should see the look of contentment and immediate love between these two. Frank spent the entire time from Portland to Eugene (2 hours) on Dale's lap while Dale drove. It's as though these two old "farts" needed each other and have found each other. A younger dog would not have been as docile or "intuitive" as "The Southern Gentleman." I believe there is a predestined path set out for us that we follow, and I think the choice to call someone on the East Coast to adopt an animal, when there are others here on the West Coast that need homes too, was "predestined" for us: Frank for Dale, Dale for Frank. Remember, Danielle, that you politely begged us (while still maintaining your dignity, mind you) to take Frank too. And it didn't hurt in having Ann tell us about the perfect match for Dale in taking Frank too. Don't get me wrong, Radar and I are inseparable and maybe the predestined path was a double-lane highway here, as I love that little man so very much. Poor guy, he has to share me with Heidi (our wayward weenie dog) and she's "the bitch from hell": stingy with the toys, easily gets her nose out of joint, etc. Oh well, such is life. Radar is here...Radar is going to stay. What a face! I'm in love!

I just wanted to share with you, Katie, and Michelle the joy in our home (except for poor Heidi) and how thankful we are that we took the two dogs. Thanks for all that you do, guys. You "Rescue" people are wonderful at matching "Cairns in need of homes and homes in need of Cairns". You're the best.

Affectionately,
Fara Roberts-Keeney (new mama to Radar and Frank...and Heidi still)

Indy

Our CAIRN RESCUE experience was filled with anticipation and adventure from the very beginning. Last August, the great folks at Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network matched us with a lovely little Cairn who was almost 2 years old at the time. He was named "Independence" and affectionately called "Lover Boy" by the staff and nicknamed "Indy." Although we live in Maryland, my husband suggested that we drive up to Indy's foster home in Wisconsin to pick Indy up. My husband assumed that the transition would be smoother that way, and the Board all agreed. We were warmly greeted by Indy's foster family: Kathi, Rob, and the rest of their furry family. When Kathi pointed Indy out to us through her kitchen window, my heart melted! He was adorable! The ride back to Maryland was long, and Indy was so very quiet in his crate -- probably wondering what kind of journey he was taking THIS time. Initially, he was very slow to trust and our family was told he would be, since everything was so new to him again. When we finally arrived home, we were very anxious for Indy to get settled in his brand new home. Understandably, he was extremely cautious and skittish. He seemed afraid of almost everything and everyone. Slowly but surely, the days turned into weeks, months, and here we are six months later, and I am happy to report that our sweet Indy is doing beautifully. He is healthy and content, and we're thrilled to have him as part of our family. Indy has made great strides. To name just a FEW: he was totally housebroken within the first week of being home, he just adores sleeping in his own doggie bed, and loves playing and fetching his squeaky stuffed animals. Indy never knew toys prior to being in foster care, never knew playtime, and never had his feet on grass. He can sit, as well as "sit up pretty." A new trick that he just mastered is very exciting to us: he now "rolls over!" In addition, he seems to enjoy going over to his furry 'cousins' home (other dogs) for a little fun from time to time. Indeed, we just LOVE our special "Lover Boy" to pieces! (We have many other fond nicknames for him -- too many to mention here!)

I can't say enough good things about the COL. POTTER CAIRN RESCUE NETWORK. It has been a fulfilling and rewarding experience for us. We've had the pleasure of working with caring and compassionate folks like CPCRN Board member Michele from Ohio, who made it all come together for us and for which we will always be grateful. The staff are *top-notch* people; they REALLY love these dogs and put so much effort into working their special magic! I can only hope that many, many other deserving Cairns are matched up with their prospective adoptive families in such a positive way as our personal experience. When that happens, it is truly a blessing!

Jake

My friend had a rescue Greyhound named Rafe and one day she adopted a wonderful Cairn named Cory. I was so impressed with the way the new dog brought Rafe out of his shell and how he and Cory would play together. I had a faithful Cairn named Toto and thought that she might benefit from a playmate too! That is when I found the Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network on the web. I immediately filled out an application and was contacted by Michele not soon after about a rescue named Jake.

Michele told me that Jake was from a puppy mill that closed and all the dogs were just let out to into the streets! He eventually ended up in a shelter in upstate New York and was placed in the foster home of Alyce Peters. Alyce and I spoke on the phone and she told me more about the Jakie man. Alyce told me that when she first got him, Jake was extremely shy and afraid, and totally untrained. I was a little worried that Jake wouldn't be a good match for my family and me, because I was skeptical as to whether someone could have rehabilitated such a poor creature. I felt that way until I met the Miracle Worker and Jake. Words cannot describe how dedicated Alyce and her husband are to the fostering of wayward Cairns. Alyce truly gives her whole heart and soul to each and every rescue that comes through her door. She has geared a good portion of her life to giving the love and support that these dogs need to live in a normal home environment. I was most impressed with the way both Michele and Alyce really want what is best for the dog first, and then the adopter. They will not place a dog just to give it a home, but strive for the perfect match of dog and owner. That is just what CPCRN did when Jake entered our lives.

Jake has become a constant companion to Toto and me! He is always by my side and has a constant look on his face that says "Love Me", and boy is he lovable! He loves to sit on my lap, lie against me in bed, and have his belly rubbed while he rolls around on his back. Sometimes Toto gives him a look as if to say "You're such a nut", but they get along famously. Wherever or whatever Toto does, Jake is one step behind and takes his cues from her. She really is his big sister and I swear she has taught him a lot on how to behave in our household. He is the most affectionate dog I have ever owned and seems to say "Thank you for rescuing me" each and every day! I thank CPCRN, especially Michele and Alyce, for our wonderful blessing named Jake each and every day!

Julie before adoption

Julie at home

Losing a pet is never easy, but losing our sweet little horse one day and our little female Cairn (Pookie) the next was almost more than we could bear. Many sleepless nights, lots of tears, and heavy hearts followed. Even our remaining male Cairn (Toby) seemed lost. Several times a day, he would check Pookie's bed like she might be there. After a week of tears, I decided a new dog might be in order. Surely, there must be another little soul in need of a home. On impulse, I called the shelter where we got Pookie. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I think I was hoping Pookie might be there again! The shelter had no suitable small dogs, but they alerted me to the fact that almost all breeds have rescue sites on the internet now. Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network was the first site I found. After filling out the application and speaking with Jodi, my CPCRN contact, I was told of a female Cairn (Julie) nearby who might suit us. A few days later, her picture was put on the site. What a cutie! I couldn't wait for my husband and son to come home, so I could show them Julie!

Julie has been here almost a month now, and tears have been replaced by laughter. It's been a while since we had a 4 year old in the house! She is so full of life, and love. She is so cute, all you have to do is look at that face, and you start laughing! Julie loves attention. She wags her little tail so hard, her whole body twists! She gets so excited when she sees her harness, she can hardly contain herself. She loves to explore the yard, and pretty much covers an acre on our evening walk. Julie follows directions and plays well with others (Toby, Mittens, and Okie). Report card = A+. We can't believe our good fortune to have gotten one so sweet!

The powers that be at CPCRN have done their homework. They seem to have selected a perfect match for our family. Once again, there are two Cairns sleeping at the foot of the bed. Once again, my husband and I each have a Cairn to hold while watching tv at night.

Julie may have needed a home, but we NEEDED HER even more! Funny how things work out sometimes. Many thanks to ALL at CPCRN.

Katey

Is this a Happy Ending story? Yes, I suppose so but it is also a beginning. Every day with Katey is a new beginning: a flower that opens more each day and embraces the world. She has been in our home for almost two years and still I see her confidence grow and her personality blossom.

Who is this Cairn terrier named Katey? For five years she was Imagem. Just a name on a piece of paper for the owners records but really a lonely little dog in a crate and kennel sleeping away the long hours of boredom, often raising a litter of pups.

I believe that this girl has a fleet of guardian angels watching over her though. When her usefulness waned as a breeding dog she was given up to the loving arms of rescue. She was supposed to go to a foster home out west but her angels somehow managed to guide rescue to a foster home here in Florida instead. I don't know why but it was one of Katey's miracles.

While unknown to me, as Imagem was being transported to Florida I was wishing for a little girl to be a sister to our new boy Riley. I just mentioned on the AOL Cairn board that I would like a wheaten female about Riley's age to complete our family.

A foster mom called to tell me she had a little girl that smiled all the time and was such a happy little girl. Just one thing though. She had wanky ears from past hematomas. Well, I saw her picture and said they looked like teddy bear ears and were adorable. So we named her Katey Bear.

Katey's miracles don't stop there. Her guardian angels are always by her side. Soon after she came into our home I found a lump between her toes. It was a very fast growing cancer. "This can't be happening!" Our wonderful vet told us he would operate and remove the tumor and the two middle toes. He rushed her to surgery the very next day and operated as aggressively as he could without crippling her. Katey came out of surgery with only the two outer toes but her large pad intact and then we waited for months saying daily prayers. Katey walks and runs with no limp. She is cancer free and her two toed foot forms a V for victory.

Riley Charles adores his sister and she loves him. Katey Bear with the dancing eyes and big smile learned to play with toys and come through doors. She learned how to race around the yard and bark with joy. Every day she learns that the world is a big wonderful place full of adventures and new experiences. She learns that it is okay to ask for love and pats and belly rubs. She learns that she is a treasured member of a family.

MacGregor

I'd like to start by thanking each & every Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network volunteer for all the wonderful things you do: making sure adoptions are the perfect fit for all involved and bringing such happiness into people's lives & these wonderful little fur friends. In our adoption case, this truly was a match made in heaven!

MacGregor's Rescue Story: Our little guy was one of the fortunate ones: rescued from a horrible puppy mill & placed in caring foster homes in Florida with Jodi & Judy. The Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network teamed me up with a Cairn Rescue volunteer in Texas: Judy. Throughout our adoption process, Judy's support was incredible; it was evident that Rescue, for Judy, is purely a labor of love. Judy started her magic by introducing MacGregor's (Scotty's) foster mom and me via e-mail. Then she contacted Alyce, another Col. Potter Rescue volunteer who we had the pleasure of meeting at the early stages of our adoption process. Alyce, her husband, and their three dogs were leaving for a vacation down South, so they gladly agreed to reroute their vacation, pick up MacGregor in Florida, and then continue their vacation plans. Alyce told Judy that without knowing why, she had packed an extra dog crate in their trailer.

A few weeks later we met little MacGregor for the first time at Alyce's home. It was love at first sight; what a cutie patutie. Like most Rescues, MacGregor was confused & shy at first, but it certainly hasn't taken him long to adjust and feel right at home. We've been having so much fun with our new family addition; he thoroughly enjoys just being around us all & being part of his new family's activities. He loves having new toys and enjoys his soft comfy beds. We finally discovered a few treats that he will eat: cheese and oatmeal cookies. He has become quite the talker which is sweet to hear & always puts a smile on our faces. He tries very hard to play with our cat Rascal, but she is just not quite sure what has happened to her household yet; however, she is being tolerant. MacGregor has adapted to a leash wonderfully. Recently we celebrated MacGregor's second birthday, visited our Vet, put on a few needed pounds, went to the groomer, and will start obedience classes after Thanksgiving. As they say: "The Rest Is History!

Magnum

In the fall of 2003, Magnum was adopted by our family in Ohio. His name (usually paired as in magnum force or Magnum P.I.) seemed out of place with his timid demeanor: He only ate by his cage, would not retrieve a toy, and spent much of his time scratching and biting his paws. He seemed miserable. But despite his state of distress, he wanted to be loved and was best-in-show as a lap dog. When we sat down on the sofa, he jumped up on our laps. He won our hearts immediately.

Magnum was definitely not cared for by his previous owner who had abandoned him to a dog pound. But we were going to change the world for our little friend. After a blood test to determine the source of his allergies and an ongoing series of injections of an allergenic extract to desensitize him to over two dozens environmental triggers, he has finally been released from the torment of continuous itching. His fur, which was very thin, has grown back lush and full.

But Magnum's trials did not end here. The poor little guy had another health issue. When we first adopted Magnum, we noticed a film on the side of the iris of his right eye. The vet said that the mass was a benign melanoma which began to grow rapidly. Within a few months, it was necessary to have that eye removed. But don't feel sorry for Magnum! He rebounded astonishingly.

Magnum has developed into a very athletic dog who loves to walk with me for miles every day along the many trails of our local metro parks. He jumps up on the sofas and beds, plays with his squeaky toys, runs after squirrels and rabbits, and challenges his favorite nemesis "thunder" by running along the backyard fence during a storm. He has become everything a Cairn should be: frisky, feisty, and fabulous. And when Magnum is done playing and enjoying his new world, he comes inside and jumps up on our laps for a nap. Life is good for Magnum.

To end Magnum's story, it must be said that the name really does match the dog. Magnum in Latin means "great." So we have renamed our little pal "C.T." Yes, he really is a great Cairn terrier.

One Eyed Jack

My wife and I have a female Cairn named Gabby; she is almost 9 years old. In October 2003, we looked at CPCRN’s site and decided to adopt another Cairn.

After studying the pictures and write-ups, we filled out the application and waited for the process. We had our home inspection and we were ready to go. We applied for *One Eyed Jack*, but someone got him first! Then we picked several other Foster Cairns and the same thing occurred; they had been previously spoken for also! We tried a third time and someone picked that Cairn before us as well. By now we were pretty discouraged and e-mailed Michele Stadnik to express our displeasure.

Michele was very kind and explained how and why this had all happened; she also said she might have some good news for us and would e-mail us in a few days! When Michele did e-mail us, she said Jack was coming back and asked if we were still interested. We were excited and were put in touch with Jack's foster mom, Susan.

After phone conversations and many e-mails, arrangements were made to have Jack delivered to our house. Jack is a joy to have. He has been to obedience school with me, and he won an extra award for most improved dog and handler. He continues to impress us.

Michele and Susan were very kind and they have made our house a joyful place with two Cairns. Gabby and Jack get along great and they have since the first moment Jack arrived.

Our understanding is that Jack was in Missouri and was either abused or hit by a car, which is how he lost an eye. The people out there arranged for Jack to be sent to Susan in South Carolina for rehabilitation. Jack's disability doesn't bother him at all, and his temperament is great considering his ordeal.

This group does a fantastic job; I hope other people learn what great dogs these Rescues are.

The moral of the story is: "It was meant to be; this dog was meant for us."

A warm thank you to all the people that helped. He's great.

Peri at age 13

Peri: to know him was to love him. There was something quite special about this senior gentleman, who was of partial English pedigree and so very proper in his personality.

We met Peri for the first time when he was already in his golden years; however, his reputation and his pedigree were known by many breeders who showed Cairn Terriers. Peri had an excellent breeder who was also a professional dog handler. Peri was a finished AKC Champion and he also made his mark with the ladies with whom he courted. When his breeder and owner died suddenly, all of the dogs that were not previously signed over to a new owner were placed in foster care or new rescue homes. Peri was not a young dog at that time, so he was available for placement. He was adopted by Pat and Jane who later adopted Silly.

Pat and Jane took Peri to handling classes, and it was there that he learned to respond to a flickering or blinking light. This early training was the foundation for his later training as a hearing dog. As Peri aged, his ability to hear also failed. It was time for Pat and Jane to get another dog that could also be trained as a hearing dog: not only to aid them with their hearing, but to help Peri with his hearing loss as well.

Peri and Silly immediately became the best of friends. George and I became very close to the new owners of Silly; therefore, we also became family to Peri. I loved this special little guy, and still today, I can feel his sturdy little body in my arms and feel his eyelashes against my cheek.

Pat died first. His death was not unexpected. We made arrangements to keep both dogs at our home until Jane could move into a smaller home in a different city. It was not too many months later when it was discovered that Jane also had cancer. We once again picked up the dogs and we would care for them when Jane was in the hospital for her treatments. Jane felt it was time to place the dogs, but we felt that there was no hurry to do this. Both dogs were able to visit Jane in the hospital just a few days prior to her death.

Jane was an intelligent woman. She was well aware that Peri was about fifteen years of age at that time. She knew he was quite hard of hearing and his vision was poor. Peri developed a 'tic' the last year or two of his life with Jane, so his little leg moved almost all the time as if one was scratching his hip muscle. Peri was incontinent when he slept. BUT, Peri was the sweetest little gentleman on earth, and I KNEW he still had a few good years in him. BUT WHO WOULD ADOPT THIS DOG?

Life has a way to taking care of itself. While shopping one day, I ran into a former neighbor of Jane's. She inquired about the dogs and I stated that I had placed Silly and that we still had Peri. She mentioned that one of her neighbors just had their elderly, deaf father move in with them, and that they were looking for an "old, gentle and slow" dog. WELL, did I have the dog for them! Peri was adopted the following weekend. He had a new home. Like the new owner said so eloquently "an old geezer dog for an old geezer man". Peri and his new owner both died about two years later during the same month. I am sure that they both gave joy and extended the lives of their best friend.

Piper

My name is Piper. Actually, this wasn't always my name. I guess you could say I'm a guy with a record. I've lived in more than one place, but to be honest I can't tell you how many. Just recently, I was surrendered to the Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network as a last resort. I'm not really sure what that means, but if they hadn't rescued me, I might not have been around to tell any story. It all happened rather quickly too. Before I knew it, I was in the arms of the most wonderful lady who let me sit on her lap and kept me safe. I have secretly always known my heart's desire and as soon as I met her, I knew I would not let her go. She was supposed to just take care of me until they could send me for some rehabilitation, but once I met her husband and sat in his chair, I was resolved to be their one and only. This was indeed a tall order, since they lost their best friend a few years earlier and couldn't imagine ever feeling that way again. But I was on my best behavior, gave them lots of kisses and cuddles, and minded my manners in the house, if you know what I mean. And in a just 2 days, we were a family. I've never been happier and Mom and Dad tell me how special I am and how grateful they are that CPCRN brought us together. And surprise, surprise -- I AM a good dog after all.

Quincy

I’m a true animal lover: always have been, always will. After growing up with a family pet female dog we named Fluffy, saying goodbye to her my senior year in college was one of the worst days of my life. Although I vowed to someday have another special dog in my life, apartment living and then becoming a traveling “career woman" prevented my dream from becoming a reality sooner than later.

Finally, after 25 years of living without a pooch, both living and career changes allowed me to begin my search for that special dog for me. I knew I wanted to adopt a young adult dog in need of a home rather than purchase one or go through the puppy stages; visits to two of the local animal shelters did not result in my finding the special little dog I was looking for, so I began to search the internet. Before I knew it, I had found him on the Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network web site!

Quincy (aka: Harrison) was described as a little ball of happy energy rescued from a local shelter in Houston, Texas. His foster Mom said he turned out to be a most loveable boy who loved to play with his toys and was in need of lots of love and attention. I submitted my application for adoption and anxiously waited to be approved. A few short weeks later I was on the phone with his foster mom getting all the cute little details on this adorable little guy and the next thing I knew, I was making travel arrangements to Houston to pick up Quincy and bring him back to his new home in Florida.

Ever since his August arrival to his “forever home", Quincy has been the perfect little addition to my family. His transition has been completely uneventful thanks to his foster mom, Sandy, and I will be forever grateful to her for his rescue from the shelter. Quincy has the run of the house, yet prefers to be in the same room with us. He was already house-trained and rarely barks except when the doorbell rings or he hears a noise outside. Quincy loves his daily walks down to the community duck pond and enjoys chasing the little Florida geckos than run along the sidewalk. He enjoys outings at the beach and park where he can socialize with other dogs, but his most favorite thing to do is to curl up on my lap for his afternoon siesta. We could not have asked for a better pet; Quincy is the love of our lives and we look forward to many happy years together. Thank you Col. Potter!

Riley

When you have loved a dog with all of your heart for almost eighteen years, he is so much a part of you that loving any other dog just doesn't seem possible. Bambi was part of my soul. The dreaded day I couldn't even think about finally came when we knew we had to let our angel go to a pain-free place. It is one of the hardest decisions anyone ever has to make.

Another dog? No, I don't want another dog. What I said was, "Now we will travel." What I meant was "How could I ever love another dog as I had loved my Bambi."

So why did I talk about dogs all the time? Why did I scan the adoption board over and over? Because my heart was breaking and though I didn't know it then, only another furry baby could start the healing.

Then one day there he was. The face I couldn't get past. "Dave come here," I called, "Look at this little guy." I tried to read the bio to him but the tears were streaming down my face. So he began to read and tears were welling in his eyes. Charlie wasn't perfect. How could anyone let a little dog's foot be broken and not have it repaired? How could anyone let a dog be so miserable that he would chew until his teeth were down to nubs? He had not known a safe and loving life, yet his spirit could not be broken. We were told he was sweet and affectionate. We knew then we had to bring him home where he was meant to be.

I gave a lot of thought to his name and decided he needed a new name to start his new life. I also knew he would be our boy forever and from now on he would only know love, attention and care. The name Riley came to me and played in my head like a song that wouldn't leave. Of course, it is perfect. He will be "Living the Life of Riley" from now on.

We had to wait five long weeks before we could pick him up in Biloxi on the way back from a trip. It was almost like a pregnancy, preparing for the baby and dreaming about what he will be like. Then the day finally came. We walked into his foster home and there he was. We were in love. Karen and Bill had spent those long weeks showering him with love, feeding him well and showing him that there are good people in the world who will love him.

Riley Charles Kohnke is his formal name now as he deserved a name with status. But for everyday he is our Riley. Our precious little Riley Boy that fills our hearts and has made our family whole again. Riley is five years old and had to be taught to play with toys, chase a ball, go for a walk, love car rides. We see him blossom everyday. He smiles more, he is so eager to please, his tail is in perpetual motion with happiness. We are a family. He belongs right here and we feel so blessed to have found him.

I am in total awe of these wonderful rescue volunteers who can over and over again take broken little babies and make them whole again then send them on their way with a gentle kiss to forever homes. They must shed buckets of tears when they go but manage to smile and wave as those babies drive away. They are truly angels.

Thank you all for making it possible for Riley to come into our lives.

Scarlett

I began my journey with CP in February 2007. We had our references checked, a home visit and were approved soon after that. While going through the process of approval in February, Scarlett was being rescued from a southern facility in February 2007. From Scarlett's rescue she went to her first loving foster home in Arkansas, where among other things she had dental work and spaying. After 7 long years of producing litters she was free, and stayed in her first foster home until July 2007.

Next, Scarlett went to her second loving foster home in Michigan and lived there from July - Sept. 2007. While Scarlett was getting used to freedom and love in her respective foster homes, I began asking questions of my Matchmaker whenever I could about possible matches.

We were set to adopt when I found out I had a growth, which needed to be removed from the back of my throat. Not knowing if this was benign, it brought our match to a screeching halt. The growth did turn out to be benign and again the search began about a month later. About this time Scarlett was being moved to her second foster home.

All the dogs I thought I wanted and inquired about weren't ready, weren't good with cats (we have three), had severe medical problems (even though they were much younger than Scarlett), or the foster home couldn't let them fly. I was about to give up when my Matchmaker said what about Urlacher/Uni? She was great with cats, loved people and was very sweet and petite. But she was 9 years old!

My husband was leery, he worried that I would have a broken heart if she left us too soon. But there was something about her.... Yes, I had constantly bypassed her on the website, although I thought she had tremendous appeal. As I inquired more, she was actually healthier than all the other dogs I'd inquired about. The minute my Matchmaker had mentioned her name to me again, something went off in my head and heart and I just knew she was the one. You see, it was destiny - she was first rescued just as my journey began...and I didn't know then that a power greater than myself was arranging for this beautiful little soul to enter my life.

Though Scarlett had changes to go through, surgeries for her teeth and spaying after all the litters she'd had with the commercial breeder, then the changes of her foster home beginning in February 2007; I was recovering from major back surgery. The recovery is 18 months with extensive physical therapy, which is ongoing currently in November 2007 as I write this. My 18th month marker will be March 2008. Just in time for Scarletts'10th Birthday.

Now there was the challenge of Scarlett's new foster home that was located in Michigan. We live in Colorado. How was I ever going to afford flying her out on top of adoption fees and all the things I needed to purchase for her before she came home? Out of the blue on of my best friends (a veteran therapist of 40 years) called me and said: "I believe in my heart this is the dog for you and I want to help you. Let me give you the money for the dog adoption and her flight and when you can, you can pay me back." Furthermore she told me, that she "insisted."

There was nothing left to do but make this piece of paper morph into a living breathing soul in our home, Scarlett's forever home. There were so many miracles happening around Scarlett becoming a part of our family, and obstacles were being kicked to the roadside all along. It was kismet.

But I just didn't see or know all the signs. "Love is the triumph of imagination over intelligence." Says H. L. Mencken and I believe him! I named her Scarlett immediately because Scarlett O'Hara, (the famous female in Margaret Mitchell's "Gone With the Wind") had tremendous enduring charm and strength. Our Scarlett has all the charm and none of the demanding selfish characteristics of Scarlett O'Hara.

Since making Scarlett an integral part of our family not quite 3 months ago, we have had many wonderful days filled with many blessings. We have met many other Colonel Potter families, both human and fur-butts, including Scarlett's Michigan foster mom, (who flew Scarlett out here and spent the night with us). All these dogs and dear people were formerly only names on the Colonel Potter Mentoring Website, including my Matchmaker, and now they are real, friends, and part of our extended forever family.

We have gone for walks at lakes, visited friends, taken countless photos, dressed for snow days, and Halloween and best of all on my birthday, November 3rd, I woke up with Scarlett in my arms . . . looking up at me with a smile! What better birthday present could a girl have?

Each day Scarlett relaxes more and more and is even beginning to play. She loves meeting other dogs and human friends. She is such an unassuming Angel. It was a most perfect match for a lady in waiting recovering from surgery. This match may have been through Colonel Potter, but it was heavenly intervention. It was truly AN IRRESISTIBLE FORCE MEETING AN IMMOVABLE OBJECT! We have so much to look forward to -- together. Thank you Colonel Potter for the honor of taking care of this 9-year young Angel. I say to any of you a more mature dog has many wonderful advantages. Don't be afraid to take a chance. After all there are no guarantees that a young dog or even a puppy won't have problems. So if you're on the fence. Go for it!

Scotty before

Scotty after

Judy is Scotty's former foster mom, and she received a wonderful update from Scotty's forever Mom, Nan:

Scotty has become the sweetheart of the nursing home in which my mother-in-law resides. She hasn't been doing well, and has not shown much interest in visitors -- that is, UNTIL we brought Scotty to visit. All of a sudden, where she would hardly talk to us, she stares at him, and tells him that his tongue is sticking out, or his nose is cold. She even talks to us, telling us that he's a such a nice dog, and pointing out what he's doing at the time. She would normally sleep through most of our visits, but now, she just wants to look at Scotty and pat him. He is so good, it's like he understands that she needs him to be peaceful next to her. He'll just lay there, let her pat him, and sometimes lick her hand.
All of the other residents that we have met ooh and aah when they see him coming, and several have started waiting for him to come. It's so funny when we don't have him with us, and they see us coming, they are disappointed that it's only us. Even the nurses look forward to his visits; they think he's adorable, but we already knew that!
Talk to you soon,
Nan

Does this do your heart good and make it all worthwhile, or WHAT? I asked Scotty's Mom if I could share this happy ending and she said, "Yes!" The first picture below is before he was groomed, but it shows the spark in his happy eyes -- for those of you who never met him. He was a stray in a town about 100 miles west of Fort Worth. He had been hit by a pick-up truck, but luckily just grazed and not seriously hurt. He was taken to the local humane society where they put out an A.P.B. for a Cairn Rescue on our local rescue list, and so he came into CPCRN sanctuary that way. When I drove to pick him up, his shelter worker had sent the following note with him (and this is not at all the usual experience in picking up dogs from public shelters):

Scotty loves to play fetch with a tennis ball! He will "Bring it closer!" when you ask him. He also likes stuffed squeaky toys and has learned to fetch a frisbee. He also begs for treats. He was running loose on a highway near town and was grazed by a pick-up truck. He has just a couple of small spots on his head and body that have scabbed over now. He seems to be just fine. Scotty eats cantaloupe treats and may like other fruits and veggies, too. He does not share his food bowl. He also likes to "go riding". Thank you for taking him into rescue. He is a good little dog.

Can't you just hear the love in that shelter worker's voice for this little guy? When he was in quarantine over at my vet's (due to his coming from a shelter), everyone who met him wanted to adopt him. However, I was already in contact with a wonderful woman up in New Jersey who saw him on our website and emailed me asking if she and her daughter could apply for him. As usual in accordance with CPCRN policy, I told her that I couldn't promise her a particular dog, but she could apply for him. She did, her application was processed successfully, and she and her family were notified that they were indeed going to be his new family! They were so thrilled, as was I!

Once he arrived at their house and settled in, Nan sent this note:

Hi, Judy,
I remember during the adoption process, you told me not to worry, that your group would find us the perfect dog, whether it was Scotty or another dog. All I can say is: you were so right! He has only been here for one day and we are all desperately in love with him! He is so perfect for our family! I promise to send pictures soon.
Scotty's Mom

When I read about Scotty's ability to reach Nan's mom and give her a moment of pleasure when she's down, it gives me enough incentive to keep rescuing and placing dogs for the rest of my life! It's stories like these that keep me going on the bad days: when that not-so-reputable breeder is giving me the run-around for the 15th time, or when I hear that the "Little Old Guy" died in the drainage ditch before we could get to him. I need to hear about the happy endings like this and I thought some of you would enjoy it too.

Keep up the good work! We ARE making a difference: one rescued Cairn terrier at a time!

1) Silly after rescue

2) Silly after recovery

3) Silly at 14 years old

As with most stories, there are lessons to be learned by reading them. The story of Silly is no exception. Often those who work rescue are asked if the Cairn is able to adapt easily into another household once they are no longer a young pup. Those who breed this beloved breed always get a little grin on their face when we are asked this. We proceed to tell story after story on how well our tough little terriers actually adjust in a new home. It is often said that we WISHED at times that they would not readapt as fast! In Silly's lifetime, she had four new homes. Her companion "Peri", who was also a rescue dog, had three different homes [Peri's story follows Silly's]. What did these two rescue dogs have in common? First, they were both very well bred dogs of beautiful pedigrees; second, both ended up as rescue dogs more than one time, and third they both became hearing dogs for a senior couple who happened to be deaf.

Please meet Silly:

Silly was one of our first rescue Cairns. She truly did not start out to be what we envisioned a rescue to be; after all, we had Silly's litter sister, and we were well aware of the lovely dogs in her "show" sister's pedigree. Silly was one of five pups that were whelped in a well thought out and planned breeding. The breeders were good folks, who, like many, never should have bred their female when they did. There is a saying "timing is everything", and the timing was just not right in their life; the owners of Silly's Mom just had too much going on in their life at the time to be devoting the time and energy that is required to properly raise a little of active Cairn puppies.

The breeders were a young couple, about to move across country due to a business transfer. They were also having marital problems. Their household consisted of a young daughter and a newborn infant. This did not make for a harmonious move across country. Once settled in their new home, the puppies and their other dogs required more work and time than they ever imagined. The litter spent most of their day either in a small pen outdoors in the humidity in a back yard that was loaded with bugs, or in a small bathroom indoors. The pups had little contact or interaction with their humans and they were unsocialized.

Silly was twenty months old when the telephone rang on New Year's day. The caller stated who he was and asked us what we were doing: watching the Rose Bowl parade, was our reply. We were told that Silly was put on an airplane that morning and that she was on her way to us as we spoke. We had previously expressed interest and concern on the welfare of the balance of the litter prior to the family's move across country; however, we were quite surprised that many months later without a prior phone call, this little girl was on the way to California.

Flight information was obtained, and if we rushed we could be at Los Angeles International Airport prior to the freight office closing for the day. To this day, we wonder what would have happened if we were not home or if we were on vacation and could not pick her up. We were told that we could place her as a rescue dog or keep her, they just couldn't handle her any longer.

When Silly arrived it was immediately apparent that she was one sick puppy. We called our Vet and he agreed to meet us at his office the next day even though the office was closed. Silly had severe flea anemia, the worst our Vet had ever seen. She was so malnourished that we were warned that she might not pull through the next few months. Her blood panel count was horribly off the normal ranges. She tested positive for three different types of worms. Her skin was in horrible condition from fleabites and various infections, and she was suffering badly from neglect. Huge patches of her coat were falling out from improper nutrition and lack of care and dog bites. Silly's eyes were severely sunk into her skull from the malnutrition caused by her worms. At twenty months of age, this little girl weighed barely eight pounds. She was a rack of bones covered by improperly cared for coat. She had been bitten on the eye, her rump and her neck by another dog. She also happened to be in full season when we got her. She very easily could have been bred by the intact males in the household, and on her way to being a mom herself at that time. If a puppy mill breeder owned Silly, she would have been bred. Pregnancy tests showed that she was not pregnant.

Silly's story is NOT an unusual story. It is a story of a well-meaning couple breeding a litter that they never should have bred. Many dogs that come into a rescue program have similar stories. Silly has blessed three families since she arrived with us on New Year's day. We were blessed to have had her in our lives when she first came to us. Everyone who was involved in her care immediately fell in love with her. We were blessed that this little girl found the strength to trust her foster homes and that she responded to medical treatment when, at times, it was doubtful that she would make it. Most of all, however, we were blessed that Silly seemed to hold no grudge. She accepted our love, and she loved everyone she met.

A senior couple adopted little Miss Silly. Pat and Jane happened to be deaf. They needed a 'hearing dog' that was a small breed and they needed a dog that was highly intelligent and willing to learn. That was Silly. Their current hearing dog at the time "Peri" was quite the senior himself, and was having difficulties hearing. Silly lived with Pat and Jane for quite a few years. Both Pat and Jane died within the same year's time.

One of my fondest keepsakes is a certificate from the fire department in the city in which that Jane and Silly lived. Jane, who was at one time a professional seamstress, fell asleep on the sofa not knowing that the foot pedal on her sewing machine was stuck. This caused a small electrical fire. Silly realized this, and pulled Jane off the sofa and to the front door of her home when she smelled the smoke. The city gave Silly a certificate for doing this.

After Jane's death, Silly then came back into our rescue program, and we once again found the perfect new home for her with another wonderful senior couple who lived in a neighboring state. She is VERY happy and healthy and loved today. Thank you, little girl, for making such a wonderful impact on so many people.

The first photograph to the left shows Silly shortly after her arrival. The second photograph was taken prior to being placed in her new "forever" home. The third photograph was received from her current owners; this was taken on her fourteenth birthday in 2000.

Simon

I just want to give all the wonderful people associated with CPCRN a very much heartfelt thank-you for doing all the countless tasks that are necessary to save all these precious animals. We are the lucky adopters of Simon who came to us a little over two months ago. I don't know what conditions he had to endure for his first eleven years, but I know he was literally staring death in the face because he had outlived his usefulness. He had been used for breeding purposes at a "puppy mill" then sent to auction when he was past his prime. No one wanted an eleven-year-old dog at the auction, so he was going to be destroyed. By some miracle his owner was talked in to donating him along with another eleven-year-old dog to the Colonel Potter Cairn Rescue Network.

Simon's saga continued when he left his temporary rescue home to travel nonstop, cross-country for five days to be with his foster family. When he arrived he was very sick with an infection and a temperature. He was in such sad shape, his foster Mom thought, who will ever adopt this dog?

We had been watching the CPCRN site for some time, when lo and behold, there was a picture of Simon and he was being fostered only a half hour drive away from us. My husband and I decided it must be a good sign, so we applied right away to be able to adopt him. We were very fortunate that when Simon’s foster mom did our home inspection, she brought Simon with her.

This way, we could see how well he would get along with our 16-year-old Cairn, our 14-year-old mixed terrier, and our cat. They all hit it off just fine, and the two "old farts" were excited to have a new little brother to show around. I am amazed and humbled at how well animals can adapt, given the chance and a little patience. Since Simon, had not acquired the social graces because of his life in a cage, it was necessary for us to work on house training. This was a minor inconvenience considering all that Simon has given to us. He is really the sweetest little character, and he makes me smile every day. He really is blossoming and becomes more self-assured with each passing day. It is heartwarming to see the joy he gets just from being able to run freely in the yard and go for walks. He asks for so little and gives us so much.

I just want to recommend that potential adopters not be put off by an "older" dog. These seniors have so much love to give and life yet to live. Our three elders are going strong, if not quite as fast as they once did. If I could afford to adopt more Cairns I certainly would, and I wouldn't hesitate for a second if they didn't happen to be younger dogs. Thanks again for all your selfless efforts on behalf of the Cairns!

Tavish

At 12, Tavish found his forever home with us and he is adored! Evidence of his 11 years of crate living are often seen when his preferred sleeping position is with his legs up a wall and when he is found standing in a corner facing the wall with his head hung low and that just breaks my heart. He is such a sweet boy it is hard to imagine that he wasn't loved!

He joined our family in March of 2005 and after some very minor adjustments he has settled in nicely. At first, he was a little possessive of his new family but soon realized that all those other people that came and went also offered some benefits, petting and sometimes treats, and this is a dog that loves his treats!

Included in our household is Molly, a Scottie who is almost 12 too. We've had her since she was a pup. A couple of years ago, we lost Toby, her long-time Cairn companion. Just after Toby's death a cat found the doggy door moved into our house, somehow it figured Molly wouldn't mind even though she had never known a cat up close! Odd! And Molly didn't mind. Molly had never been an only dog and when Toby died we decided we would see how that went hoping the cat would be a bit of a companion.

On some levels single-dog-hood was great, she got many more rides in the car and long walking adventures but I could tell we weren't enough and she was very lonely. When I mentioned my interest in the CPCRN dog Tavish, my husband asked if he came with a shovel because he was so old (he was kidding of course!) but neither of us regrets the decision to adopt an older dog at all; Molly either. Although they do follow each other around the yard a lot, Molly is still hopeful that Tavish will someday join her in a big play romp.

Tavish is an absolute delight and we are all in love; we are truly happy to be able to provide a happy place for the rest of his life! Oft times our whole family, including the cat can be seen walking though the park, one big happy family! We want to thank all the dedicate people of CPCRN who were part of making this possible, particularly Ruth, the foster mom!

Trax (now called Truman)

On December 16, 2002 I lost my 13-year-old Westie – Sally – my very best friend in the world. Even though my heart was aching I knew I would want to open my heart to another terrier. So on Christmas Day I filled out the adoption papers on Col. Potter’s website and away they went. And so began one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I can’t say enough about the folks involved in Col. Potter – Michele, Ann, Vicki – The top priority for all of the volunteers is the future of the Cairns. And as a person who makes no decisions without thinking about how it will affect the pups in her life – I knew I had made the right decision to work with Col. Potter. I searched the site daily looking for a buddy to join me. I also have a 12 year old rescue “Heinz” variety – Sweetie Girl Peppy” and I really wanted a younger dog to bring out the puppy in Pepper!

I searched for what seemed like forever – of course it really wasn’t – but it sure did seem like it – and out of nowhere Trax appeared. Trax’s history showed he was returned to a pet store after being purchased at a very young age, and then somehow ended up on a set of train tracks (thus his name) where a man found him and carried him home, giving him hopes that a good life was ahead. Little did he know, this life meant staying crated for 21 hours a day and often for days at a time, as this man often didn’t come home to care for him. A concerned neighbor took his destiny in control by calling CPCRN to rescue him while she managed to get the man to relinquish Trax to her. The moment I saw him on their website, I felt he was special. We all thought this was the one – and soon he was on his way from Virginia to Maine – transported from the loving home of Foster Mom Ann to the loving arms of Vicki to the excited arms of Sue! It was love at first sight and has remained so. I decided Trax needed a new name for his new life – and after a vote by all my “doggy” buddies we settled on Truman.

Truman is a bundle of love and energy who keeps Pepper and I hopping! We have become a pack of three and it seems that Truman has been here always. The three of us do everything together. Well maybe not everything – I still refuse to participate in what I affectionately call “Naughty Hour”. The event occurs twice a day – once at about 6am and again around 7 pm. I have to admit I am the instigator. I have discovered by simply saying, “Get him Pepper” – Pepper will automatically swat at Truman with her paw. And the games begin! Truman races through the house – Pepper – well it’s more a brisk waddle – snapping those pearly whites at each other – darting and dancing. My favorite part is when Pepper traps Truman on her doggie bed and holds him down with her head! Doesn’t that all sound exhausting? Well sometimes – but then there are those moments when Peppy is curled up at my feet and Truman has his little head in my lap – and they both look at me with those big brown eyes – and life is really really good. Considering his start in life he is an amazing little guy. Life is just one big adventure for him and he lives life to the fullest. Peppy and I are deeply in love with him and cherish every moment with him. Truman goes everywhere I go and he has not met a person or dog that he doesn’t like. His favorite day is Sunday when we go to the Doggie Park and he gets to romp with all the big dogs!

Thank you Col. Potter for sending me Truman, but most of all thank you, Truman, for allowing me to be a part of your wonderful, loving adventure-filled life!