Jeni Mc: What kind of adoptable pets can we find in the Luv A Chin family?
PE: "Japanese Chin (pure breeds & mix), we also will help other small breed dogs as room allows in foster homes, as each of our volunteers has a special spot in their hearts for certain breeds."
Jeni Mc: I know there are other rescues that promote Chin rescue. I was not familiar with the breed until being introduced to this rescue. How many Japanese Chin has Luv A Chin been able to help personally?
PE: "Luv-A-Chin just started Jan. 1st of this year. In 5 months we have had a total of of almost 160 dogs come into our rescue of which includes 95 chins successfully secured from puppy mill auctions - which to me in phenomenal! We are in the process of vetting them and moving them to foster homes and then to their adoptive homes. We currently have 31 of our dogs available for adoption at this time. Some of the auction dogs are available already, plus we have received dogs from shelters, owner surrenders and other breeder releases. Due to the fact that these dogs are not a common breed, I thought "50 in a year" would be a fair (high) estimate, this is beyond my wildest imagination in 5 months."
Jeni Mc: I know you have completed 36 permanent adoptions this year. That is a huge success! What other dreams do you have for the future?
PE: "Of course, that there is an end of the puppy mills and auctions, and that each one finds their perfect family & home. For 95 of them, that is their dream coming true. My biggest is that one day there is no more need for rescue groups like ours. I truly hope we are making a difference, but for each one we place into a home, we have done that."
Jeni Mc: As a small organization, what are the challenges you face on a daily basis?
PE: "As with all volunteer based organizations, rescue is a challenge all around. Foster homes, transport and costs are the 3 biggest challenges. We do this because we love these fur-kids and it is our passion. Regardless of how many people tell me, "you can't save them all" I am doing the best I can and have a hard time saying "no room at the inn"."
Jeni Mc: What are the immediate needs to be met at Luv A Chin? How can the public help today?
PE: "Donations, no matter how small - this can even be gift cards for food, sponsor vet costs - such as 5 rabies shots, a spay or neuter, etc. - even old towels, blankets, dog beds, collars, leashes, ID tags, etc. Foster Homes are desperately needed. These can be for short term, emergency only, or longer term until adopted."
Jeni Mc: I know how easy it is to fall in love with these little creatures on sight! They are so loving and their charm captures your heart. It makes you want to take one home right away. But realistically what can a foster home expect to experience while caring for this breed?
PE: "Many of the dogs we take in do come from un-socialized beginnings - ie: breeder dogs. We have experienced foster homes for these dogs, and are willing to send a foster that has already been in the system to a new foster home. Chins are very "cat-like" in their mannerisms, low maintenance (wash & wear type), minimal shedders, and are not barkers. They pick up on house training quite quickly - even with potty pads. They are dainty dogs - many do not like the rain, can be shy - but also very loving and cuddly."
Jeni Mc: Adoption is a life long commitment. It's important for the family of any dog to research it's needs before taking it home. What should the family of a Japanese Chin learn before adoption?
PE: "Some of their health issues do include heart murmurs (by age 5-6 years), luxating patellas are also a problem due to the toy breed, but also because of their thinner, dainty legs. They are not "non-shedding"
Jeni Mc: Thank you Peggy for sharing your knowledge of these great pets with us. I know many people will want to stop out at your meet and greet on May 17th at Your Pet Stop. Any last thoughts on the Luv A Chin adoption process you'd like to share?
PE: "Japanese Chin are not for everyone in their history - only royalty were allowed to own them and they seem to know that still - we are their servants! We do require our online application to be completed, reference checks and home visits will be done prior to adoption. We also will take the dog back if the match is not good or there are changes in the adopters lifestyle. Our purpose is to find the dogs their forever family and will take responsibility if the need to return arises. We are a close-knit group of chin lovin' volunteers and we keep in touch with our adopters & friends. Although we are spread out (SD, OR, IL, MN, MI, NY, MD), our volunteers keep in close contact with each other."
If you'd like to learn more about the history, care or adoption of the Japanese Chin, visit Luv A Chin's website, http://www.luvachinrescue.org. I hope everyone is able to stop at the meet and greet to make a donation. Veterinary cost, food, and other supplies for 160 dogs in 5 months can easily overwhelm a rescue. Even the smallest donation can make the difference in the life of a rescued pet!
You can also see photos and read past features at http://shelteroftheheart.blogspot.com
