2005 Rescue Kerries Placed

Below are only some of the Kerries placed by the Foundation during 2005.
Most rescue dogs are placed as soon as they become available and are not listed on these pages.

Index of 2005 Rescue Dogs

Maxx
Xander
Oskar
Jack
Marley
Lilly
O'Grady
Jessie
Higgins
Dexter
Pinky Bryce

Pewter
Sierra
Bailey
Somi
Bitsy
Tommy
Muggins
Kaylie
Sapphire
Kirbby

Pinky Bryce

Pinky

Pinky Bryce, Action Figure
Parents: Judith Bruno & Roland Alden
Outfitted by: Burberry

Maxx!

Maxx has high potential -- he's a wonderful people dog whose tail doesn't stop wagging; a real face licker who adores being with his people. Unfortunately, his previous owner failed to provide the training, attention, or exercise he needed to reach his potential, so he needs boundaries set by his new owners. As a terrier, and a Kerry Blue at that, he requires a firm and consistent owner who is willing to take the time to work with him on basic obedience, leash walking, and dealing with other dogs. Kerry Blues can be dog aggressive and Maxx is a Kerry in spades, but given his smarts and desire to please, we think he'll be able to learn appropriate behavior and make a fabulous pet for the owner willing and able to give him a chance. He will also be neutered, which may help reduce his dog issues. Maxx

Our boy already knows "Sit," and happily comes when called. Say "Down" and he's likely to lay on his back for a belly rub. Maxx is learning how to play with toys, and relinquishes them immediately when you ask. He is a superb listener, and tries very, very hard to please you. This is a dog that will bond closely and be a devoted companion.

Maxx is a spirited 2-year-old, in good health, and requires a secure fenced in yard and a home with no other pets due to his strong terrier prey drive. He has no issues with food. Good as gold in his crate and not a barker. Reportedly house broken. We will not place him in a home with children under 12 due to his exuberance (though he has a history of doing well with young children). Training experience is highly preferred, ideally experience with dominant terriers.

Maxx Our adoption donation is negotiable for the right family who will give him the training he needs and deserves. This boy is a diamond in the rough looking desperately for a loving hand to polish him up.

If you are able to provide the attention, love, and training Maxx never had, please email Tracey Fulmer, New England Rescue Coordinator, or Janet Joers, Rescue Director, and let us know of your interest, regardless of your location. Then complete our Adoption Questionnaire and send it to:

23-Nov-05

Meet Xander!

Xander is a 5-month-old male puppy rescued along with 13 other Kerries in the recent "Great Escape." (Click to see the full story.) This little puppy was pulled from the auction block and out of the hands of the puppy mills who exploit companion animals for profit by breeding them over and over again. Thanks to the Kerry Foundation, this puppy will have a real life, with food aplenty, medical care, toys to play with, and people to love--the life every Kerry deserves!

Xander

His foster mother writes:

"After 10 days with us, Xander is really blossoming. He is a very sweet little boy, very affectionate and even-tempered. He loves children, and although he is not at all timid with other dogs, he does not appear to be dog aggressive.

Xander almost has the potty training thing figured out, walks nicely on the leash, and comes when called--although not if he's in the middle of a wild puppy pursuit! He's also learning the difference between shoes, carpet fringe, papers, and chew toys, and how to "play nice" during wild puppy play. Training will need to be firm and consistent, as with any puppy, so that he learns appropriate behavior and what is expected of him. His coordination is improving daily: he's mastered stairs, and when he runs, his back end is starting to stop at the same time as his front end! He's just delightful!"

Xander

The ideal home for this adorable puppy would be dedicated to socializing him with other dogs and people, and providing the training all puppies need. A fenced yard is necessary for his favorite running activities, and to build up his coordination and muscle tone. A family where there is someone home during the day would be ideal for Xander to help him bond, feel secure, and give him the love, training, and attention he's never had. He is being fostered in New England, so we're looking for a home within driving distance.

Everyone interested in Xander is asked to complete our Adoption Questionnaire and send it to:

3-Oct-05

Meet Oskar the Gentle Soul

Oskar started out as the most timid of the recent mill rescues, 9 months old, skinny as a rail, and shaking when he arrived in Boston. With just one month of TLC, he has transformed into a social butterfly. He adores people and must greet each one who passes by, male and female alike. He meets dogs with some apprehension, but goes nose to nose with Shepherds, Ridgebacks and terriers of all sizes and is making great progress with his canine social skills. Oskar loves to play and will chase down a ball or frisbee with glee, then flop down on the ground to relish the toy while he gets a belly rub. Oskar He's enjoying the company of his Kerry foster brother, running in circles around him to entice him to play, and and seems to be picking up on appropriate behavior by watching his canine sibling. He would be fine in a home with another dog, as long as interaction is monitored until he learns to be less possessive of his resources, or as a single dog with continued work on socialization.

Oskar is just learning the sights and sounds of normal everyday life, and still startles at loud or unfamiliar noises. For that reason, he needs a home without young children. He has a very gentle mouth and will readily relinquish food or a toy when asked. Formal obedience training is required, where he will likely be the star of this class as he is a good listener and very willing to please. He runs fast, loves his walks, and is wonderful on a leash. With enough exercise (he currently runs in the yard for an hour and walks for a few miles each day), he will happily rest at your feet or cuddle in your lap. A fenced in yard is a must. Oskar is also house trained -- no accidents in his foster home -- but still a puppy who needs to learn what is appropriate to chew. Oskar He's untested with cats, but given his willingness to learn, and an appropriate introduction, he may do fine with them.

Oskar is being fostered in Massachusetts. He's one special, gentle soul of a Kerry who will delight his adoptive family.

Play "Oskar the Tease" movie.

(File size: 4 MB)
It will take several minutes to download - even at DSL speeds.

18-Oct-05

Meet Happy Jack!

Named Happy Jack for a reason, this 7-month old male puppy has a sparkling personality despite his grim life in a puppy mill. Rescued by the Kerry Foundation, Happy Jack came to us with the usual puppy mill maladies of neglect. He had parasites, eye and ear infections, a dirty, matted coat, and was severely malnourished and weak from being fed low-quality food. He had so much crud between his toes that he had difficulty walking. But what a transformation! With a clean coat, a clean bill of health, and energy to spare, Happy Jack is now soaking up his freedom and relishing the company of his canine foster sisters.

Happy Jack

Launch the video for a snippet of this carefree, bounding Kerry boy and you'll agree that he is aptly named. I bet you’re grinning from ear to ear! What joy this youngster will bring to a lucky Kerry family.

Play "Happy Jack" movie.

(File size: 9.2 MB)
It will take several minutes to download - even at DSL speeds.

His foster mother writes: "Happy Jack is a pistol. He’s a very friendly, outgoing little boy, active, alert, and eager to please, but he's also quite gentle. He enjoys being held, and will lie very quietly when I massage his body. When excited, he still has a tendency to jump up and throw his front paws on you as his greeting, but it's such a joyful expression from him, I have not curtailed it as yet. He's an absolute delight."

Happy Jack enjoys the company of other dogs, particularly if they like to play tug of war. He’s learning to play with the ball and has proved to be a quick study with basic obedience, including coming when called. He is well on his way to being house-trained: no accidents at night but he still needs to be watched during the day.
Happy Jack’s coat is just gorgeous--plush and dense. As such, it will need to be kept well brushed and trimmed for him to look his best. Once he's gained a few more pounds, Happy Jack will be neutered, and then he’ll be ready to entertain and be adored by his permanent family.

We are looking for a home for him that will provide the companionship and attention he's never had, so a family where someone is home during the day is best. He will need socialization with other dogs and people, and training, like all Kerry puppies. A fenced back yard of his own will help him get the exercise he needs to develop his muscle tone. But most of all, he needs someone to love.

If you have been looking for a Kerry puppy like Happy Jack, let us know by completing our Adoption Questionnaire and contacting:

4-Aug-05

Every Rescue costs hundreds of dollars. (We do full vet exams and diagnostics, treat existing conditions, do spay/neutering, and provide for the dog's every need.) To help fund Happy Jack's rescue and allow us to continue our rescue work, please make a donation to the Kerry Foundation. It can save the life of a Kerry. See Donations.

From: mickey41@mindspring.com
Sent: Fri, 19 Jan 2007 10:59 PM
Subject: Greetings from Idaho!

Happy New Year! Hope you and your family have been well.

Attached [is a] photo, which I hope you enjoy. It will give you just a glimpse of how well Jack is doing. We love him so much and it's hard to believe he has been with us over a year. He's now two years old! He is such a joy! He LOVES running, walking, chasing squirrels, and sleeping on the bed, just to name a few of his favorites. And sometimes he surprises us with the most interesting inflections of his voice. He has truly become a part of our family: he knows all of our nuances and we know his. We are so happy with him.

Thanks again for being such an important part of his recooperation!

Hope to hear from you soon!

Best wishes,
Eileen and Michael, Maria, Celita and Happy Jack

P.S. I'm in the red sweater. :) My sister, Celita, is in the pink.

Meet Marly!

Marly “Happy to be here, let’s play!”

This is the attitude that Marly has displayed since his release from Puppy Love Pet Rescue, a private rescue group who rescued him from a kill shelter. After 3 weeks confined to a crate, Marly is thoroughly enjoying his freedom, and all the attention he gets in his Kerry Foundation foster home. From the very first day, Marly played his heart out, loved up everyone in sight, ate a good dinner, and slept like a log through the night. This is a dog who will adapt wherever he goes.

His foster mom reports, "Marly is just adorable and has a lot of energy. Very bouncy! He takes the deck stairs in leaps. I wish you could see him play--just sheer joy! He will probably do very well with some older kids to play with. Marly likes everyone . . . he is not a dog that has issues with gender. And he is already a part of the Kerry pack here (an older male and female). We are teaching him to sit, and also to chase a frisbee. Last night when we left the vet's office, there was a group of dogs learning agility in an enclosed area, and Marly wanted to go there in the worst way. He's just the right kind of pup for that!"

Marly Marly is a 2-year-old neutered male, very well socialized with both dogs and humans, and is comfortable around children. He exudes happiness at all times, with an energy level that never drops. Marly is learning his basic obedience commands very quickly and is eager to please. While not 100% housebroken, he already has "the big picture" on what is expected of him. Apart from a temporary case of parasites for which he is being treated, Marly is completely healthy.

If you are looking for a happy, active and alert, athletic and agile Kerry, with a sweet and loving personality to go with it, Marly may be for you. He is currently being fostered in eastern Pennsylvania, so if you are interested in adopting him, and are home during the day to provide for his training, please fill out an Adoption Questionnaire and send it to:

21-Aug-05

We would like to thank the Kerry Foundation Shelter Scout team for finding Marly listed on Petfinder and for correctly identifying him as a Kerry despite his "Poodle-Schnauzer mix" label and Poodle haircut. Our shelter scanners are GOOD! If you are knowledgeable about Kerry structure and appearance, and would like to volunteer to scan shelter sites in search of Kerries, contact Tracey Fulmer, our national Shelter Scout Coordinator, at t_fulmer@yahoo.com.

To help us finance rescues like Marly's, please see Donations.

Meet Lilly!

Sweet little Lilly is one of the 14 Kerries the Kerry Foundation rescued in the "Great Escape." (Click to see the full story.) She came to us shy and underweight, looking like a "Kerry Whippet," completely shaved except for her face, with eye and ear infections, parasites, and a tail between her legs. Yet inside was a hopeful soul yearning to be free; one that responded beyond all expectations to love and care. Today, her description is something entirely different, and stands as a testament to the resilience of the Kerry spirit.

Lilly

Writes Lilly's foster mom:

"Lily is a super sweet and healthy 20-month-old Kerry Blue. She was rescued from a puppy mill and brought to the Northwest. She has blossomed in the past few weeks from a timid pup into a sweet, friendly puppy. She is great with our two young children and has a wonderful temperament around other dogs. She doesn't even bark when someone knocks at the door. We're starting to think she's a Kerry Blue without the Terrier! She enjoys walks and loves family outings to the park. She is wonderful on a leash, and our six-year-old daughter has even enjoyed leading her on her walks. Lilly loves to snuggle and have quiet timie. She has fallen asleep a few times between our kids while they are reading books. She is most content just being close. Lilly also likes to let her hair down and run wildly around the yard, or inside the house. This is when the Kerry Blue pup side of her comes out most. Lilly needs a gentle family with big hearts and lots of love. She is a very special Kerry with a very mild temperament that is continuing to blossom."

Lilly

If you have been waiting for a Kerry like Lilly, are willing to devote the time, patience, and love she needs to continue to flourish, and live within driving distance of the Northwest where she is fostered, we would like to hear from you. Please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and send it to:

2 Oct 2005

Rescues are expensive, especially dogs rescued from puppy mills that require extra veterinary care and spay/neuter surgery. To help finance Lilly's rescue and future rescues like hers, please make a donation to the Kerry Foundation. It can make the difference between a hopeless death in the mills or a life of love and happiness. See Donations.

Meet O'Grady!

Until acquired by the Kerry Foundation, O'Grady spent his life imprisoned in a puppy mill, shut away in a pen or cage, exposed to parasites, with untreated eye and ear infections, an overgrown coat loaded with dirt and mats, and ignored by everyone. The spirit of a lesser dog would be broken, but O'Grady is no lesser dog. He is a Kerry Blue Terrier and he knows it!

O'Grady

O'Grady stole the hearts of his rescuers and then his foster mom with his friendly, out-going attitude that seemed to say, "Look out world, here I come!" Described as "happy-go-lucky" and a real "sweetie" by his foster mom, this is a dog who exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of our breed. He may look coy in this photo of him, but he's just busy exploring all the new things in his new world--which includes everything! (Of course, he could also be contemplating taking a bite out of the leash, too! Hmmm.)

O'Grady is 7 months old, already neutered and treated for parasites and infections. He is in good health, good spirits, and waiting for his new home. This beautiful boy is going to make some lucky family a really GREAT companion!

Like all puppies, O'Grady needs to learn house-training, and all his basic obedience commands (including "Quiet!"). He needs to be well socialized with other dogs and people, exercised to build up his muscle tone, and played with and loved as an important member of the family. If you can do all that, and have the time and commitment necessary, and understand the terrier temperament (which O'Grady has in spades), then we'd love to hear from you.

Please complete our please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

29-July-05

The Kerry Foundation would like to thank WIN (Wheatens In Need) for the critical role their volunteers played in the rescue of this Kerry.

Rescues are expensive. To help finance this rescue and future rescues, please make a donation to the Kerry Foundation. It can make a huge difference in the life of a dog. Just ask O'Grady! See Donations.

Meet Jessie!

Jessie is an 8-year-old girl who lost her loving owners due to illness, and is in need of a new family to give her the love she has always known.
Jessie
Her foster mother writes: "When we picked up Jessie, the caregiver's son asked: 'Are they called Kerries because they care so much for people?' Despite losing the people she cared for, Jessie remains a loving and happy dog. Jessie gets along with her Kerry foster brother, Finn, and would do best with a non-aggressive, non-alpha male. After a few warning growls at Finn over food the first day, she quickly learned to get along. She humors him by joining in his "someone is out there" tirades, but is otherwise a quiet dog. Jessie and Finn sleep next to each other now, bump into each other constantly, and seem to enjoy the canine company. Jessie bonds with women especially, but is very affectionate with everyone. She does great with children (7-10), and enjoys small children (2-4) and appears to be gentle with them."

"Her first morning, she bounded back upstairs after eating and going into the yard, body wagging a greeting in true Kerry style. And now that she has been groomed, she looks like a Kerry--albeit with a short beard. Stuffed toys fear her, after a few of Finn's prized animals suffered a quick--but painless--death. Jesse is a sweet, happy dog that will make you smile."

Jessie is fully house-trained, knows the "Sit" command, and is fine on a leash--as long as you are going where she wants to go! Thus, she will need a refresher course in basic obedience, but she is very smart and will learn quickly. Jessie is healthy, although she needs to shed a few pounds to restore her girlie figure.
Her ideal home would be with someone who is home all day, and who will interact with her a lot. She is used to having someone around her full-time, and we would like to continue that. Would you like to make Jessie a part of your family? If so, please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

20-Aug-05

Rescues are expensive. To help finance this rescue and future rescues, please make a donation to the Kerry Foundation. It can make a huge difference in the life of a dog. Just ask Jessie! See Donations.

Meet Higgins!

Higgins grew up in a puppy mill, and by the looks of him on the day he was rescued, conditions there were appalling. He was suffering from parasites, eye and ear infections, and a filthy matted coat. But the worst sign of neglect was his weight--or lack of it. With hips protruding and his ribs clearly visible, Higgins was just "a bag of bones." According to his vet, this little puppy would not have made it without intervention. Thankfully, he fell into the caring hands of the Kerry Foundation.

Higgins

Higgins is a lively little guy, eagerly exploring the whole new world he found himself in. Every sight and sound, person and thing is a new experience, so it's no wonder he's a bit shy at first. But he's not shy at all with other dogs, especially his new playpal--a Kerry like himself. His foster family reports that he really perked up when he first met their Kerry--he cocked his tail, raised his head, and trotted right over to say hello!

After a week in foster care, his foster mom reports: "He seems to be happier every day. This morning he bounced around (yes, he bounces like a baby deer!), thrilled to be awake and receiving attention." Higgins has already bonded with those he spends the most time with--his foster mom and daughter (11 years old), who have gained his trust.

Higgins is 7 months old, already neutered, fully vet-checked and treated, and gaining weight on a high calorie, nutritious diet.

We are looking for a special home for this special boy--one with the time and patience to introduce him to the real world in a positive way, socialize him with people and other dogs, and help him gain the extra confidence he needs. A home with another dog--one more outgoing than himself--would be ideal. Higgins has all the makings of a wonderful, well-adjusted family pet. He just needs the family!

If you or someone you know have the time, gentleness, and understanding to mold this young life into a confident and secure adult, please let us know by completing the Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

30 July 05

The Kerry Foundation would like to thank WIN (Wheatens In Need) for the critical role their volunteers played in the rescue of this Kerry.

The Kerry Foundation depends on its Foster Families to provide safe and loving temporary homes for our Rescue Kerries. They treat medical conditions, evaluate the dog's temperament, provide grooming, and ensure that their Rescue dog receives the care it needs. If you would like to volunteer for this rewarding experience, please contact our Rescue Director (above) and review and sign our Foster Family Agreement.

Meet Dexter!

Dexter was rescued by the Kerry Foundation from a puppy mill, where he spent all of his short life until now. It was clear that he'd never been groomed, never been treated by a vet, and never felt the kindness of a human's touch. All that has changed, as you can tell from his picture!

Dexter

Dexter, affectionately known as "Blue Bear," is a shy guy who needs a little coaxing when meeting new people. But once he warms up to them, he is very affectionate and snuggly. After only a week, he has bonded with his foster family, particularly with his foster mom who he is with all day, and to his foster kids. Oh does he love kids! Perhaps because they are as playful as he is, for Dexter is an active little guy, running loops around the yard, dancing through the sprinklers, and taking flying leaps into the sandbox! He also took a shine to his Kerry housepal, with whom he hangs out, and from whom he's already picked up some "pointers!" However, as with any puppy, he is still learning his social manners when interacting with other dogs.

His foster mom writes:
"His confidence is building everyday. Dexter should be easy to train, since he is smart, wants desparately to please and loves treats. He is not housebroken, but is starting to learn the basics. He already comes when called by name. But he is a puppy wanting to explore, and decided that counter surfing was quite interesting. He now knows what the word "No" means! He will need someone that is firm, but patient--he is an extra sensitive soul. It was obvious Dexter never had toys or treats in his previous life. It was a joy to see him playing with toys all by himself after 5 days--just like any puppy!"

Dexter is 5 months old, already neutered, in good health, and very sweet natured.

Dexter's ideal family would have older children to play with, and maybe another dog, too. A fenced yard is a must, not only for his favorite running activities, but to build up his coordination and muscle tone. A family where there is someone home during the day would be ideal for Dexter to help him bond, feel secure, and give him the attention and training he needs.

If this home describes you and you've been looking for a Kerry puppy like Dexter, do let us know. Please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

Rescuing puppy mill dogs and providing the veterinary care and treatment they all need is costly. Each rescue almost always exceeds $500. But every dog is worth it. To help continue this important work, please make a donation to the Kerry Foundation. See Donations.

30-July-05

Meet Pewter!

Pewter grew up imprisoned in a puppy mill, and ended up on the auction block as if he were nothing more than a head of cattle or a piece of furniture. Rescued by the Foundation from a dog auction--where puppy mills buy and sell breeding stock--this young dog is destined for something far greater than stud service. He is going to make one lucky family a truly outstanding, loving companion!

Pewter

Pewter spent the first few hours of his freedom doing nothing but giving kisses to his rescuers. Some Kerry adopters claim that their adopted Rescue Kerries KNOW they've been rescued and show more gratitude for everything than other dogs they've had. If that is true, then Pewter will surely be one of the most grateful of all.This photo was taken immediately after Pewter's rescue.

Pewter is nearly 1 year old, undocked, and named for the color of his coat, which is now changing to silver. Described as a "delightful character" and a "cuddle-bug" by his rescuer, Pewter began his new life with a badly needed bath and brush-out, the first healthy meal he probably ever had, and a good run in the yard. He is happy, playful, curious, sweet, and utterly adorable.

This charming fellow would do best in a home where someone is there during the day to lavish attention on him, provide house-training, exercise him, and give him the socialization and training he needs. He will need an obedience class (required of all our Rescue Kerries) and oodles of love and affection.

If you or someone you know have a loving home to give Pewter, please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

Every Rescue costs hundreds of dollars. (We do full vet exams and diagnostics, treat existing conditions, do spay/neutering, and provide for the dog's every need.) To help fund Pewter's rescue and allow us to continue our rescue work, please make a donation to the Kerry Foundation. It can save the life of a Kerry. See Donations.

31-May-05

Meet Lady Sierra!

Lady Sierra was bred in a puppy mill and rescued by the Foundation from a dog auction--the marketplace where puppy mills buy and sell their breeding stock. Lady is one of the lucky ones. She will not spend her life alone and unloved in a cage being bred over and over. This little girl is going to spend her life as a well loved, well cared for, thoroughly appreciated family pet!

When rescued, it appeared that Lady Sierra had never been groomed in her life. Feces were caked to her behind, eyes were full of matter, ears full of hair, she smelled, and her coat was overgrown and filthy. Hundreds of Kerries just like her are kept in the mills to produce puppies for the pet store trade. Thankfully, not this one!

Lady Sierra

Lady is only 6 months old, undocked, with the soft silky jet-black coat (now sparkling clean!) characteristic of Kerry puppies. Shy at first, she quickly warmed up to her rescuer's family, and showed her true Kerry spunk by tackling an enormous ham bone fit for a Great Dane! She is now enjoying the thrill of running in a fenced back yard, romping with other dogs, and playing keep-away with a squeaky toy. She is nonetheless quite a "lady," and loves to be gently stroked and petted.

This young puppy needs a family where someone is home during the day to house-train her, introduce her to family life and house rules, socialize her with other dogs and people, exercise her to build up muscle tone, train her in basic obedience, and provide her with the mental and physical stimulation she needs to be a well-adjusted, happy family companion. All the love, affection, and attention you give her will surely come back to you ten-fold..

If you or someone you know have a loving home to give Lady Sierra, please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

Rescues are expensive. To help finance this rescue and future rescues, please make a donation to the Kerry Foundation. It can make a huge difference in the life of a dog. Just ask Lady! See Donations.

31-May-05

Meet Bailey!

Who wouldn't fall in love with this sweet and beautiful 3-year-old Kerry girl? The answer is 3 families, all of whom gave her up, one after the other, through no fault of her own. Sound in temperament, sound in health (except for temporary conditions due to neglect), well-behaved, bright and alert, Bailey is ready for her 4th--and last--home.

Bailey

Bailey is a quiet, gentle girl who listens attentively when spoken to, politely asks permission for lap time, emits little "bliss sighs" during tummy rubs, and licks your face as she patiently stands for grooming. She does well with children, other dogs, and seems oblivious to cats. Surely she is a Kerry angel! Bailey's foster mom had this to say about her:

"Personality? What I see is a pretty mellow girl, sweet as she can be, who follows me everywhere. She's very food-oriented, so training will be no problem. She gets pretty excited when I ask for a "sit," and she can't hold the position for very long, but that'll get better. "Come" is established! She doesn't want to miss anything! She loves to go for our daily walks, and seems pretty accepting of the dogs she's encountered. She's not particularly interested in toys, but that may come. One thing I'm sure of, she's going to be a great joy to her new "forever" family!"

Bailey is a good sized female, 19+ inches and 38 lbs., and has a coat to die for--dense and plush with a tight curl. As such, she will need an owner diligent about brushing and combing her coat several times a week, with monthly trims. The reward is a coat that looks like crushed velvet and feels even softer.
Like most of our Rescue kids, Bailey came to us with health issues long neglected--an abscessed tooth, plaque build-up on her teeth, an eye irritation, ear infection, and two growths that need to be removed (common in Kerries). If she's spayed, her scar is invisible, so that may need to be addressed as well. After treatment and surgery, we expect her to be in perfect condition!

The best home for this girl is one where someone is home during the day with time to give her--something she has probably never had. She is noise-sensitive and becomes uneasy around loud noises or loud, angry voices, so soft-spoken owners and a quieter--though not necessarily inactive--household would be ideal. Bailey embodies the adaptability, resilience, and devotion our breed is known for, so we expect her to do well in any loving home willing to give her the affection, exercise, care, and training she needs.

If that home describes you or someone you know, with lots of love to give this beautiful girl, please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

The Foundation would like to thank Joan Smith of IDAWG (Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group) who alerted us to Bailey, rescued her, and brought her nearly to the doorstep of our foster family in WA state. Joan and her group do an amazing job helping dogs in need, and we commend them for their excellence and professionalism. Also, our thanks and appreciation go to Barbara Kam for providing outstanding foster care for this precious girl.
Please know that rescues are expensive. To help us pay for Bailey's medical care, and continue our work and rescue other Kerries in need, please consider making a donation. It can save a life. See Donations.

22-May-05

Meet Somi!

Imagine spending 12-14 hours a day entombed in a garage. One with no view to the outside world, no bed to lie on, no social or mental stimulation of any kind, and no walk to look forward to at the end of the day. Imagine doing that for years. Somi did. Purchased on impulse from a pet store by someone who knew nothing of the breed, Somi became a captive in his own home. Thanks to the Foundation, and his owner who recognized that he needed a better life, he is now free.

Somi

In foster care, Somi (pronounced SO-ME) has defied all expectations. He is not dog aggressive as one would expect from an unsocialized Kerry. He freely and happily interacts with both a female AND male Kerry, playing with them, going for walks with them, even napping with them, and does well with other dogs he encounters on his walks. Somi is also not at all "unmanageable" as one might expect from an untrained adolescent Kerry. He is keenly attentive to his foster mom, listens with riveting attention, has a strong will to please, and is quickly learning the basics. He is also not fearful or distrustful of people, nor shy or disinterested--far from it! His greatest joy is being with people--people of all ages, being loved, petted, and talked to. People are the center of his world.

Somi is a 3-year-old neutered male, sound in health and temperament, with a beautiful silver coat, described by his former owner as "super intelligent" and a "loving, loving boy." Every walk is a grand adventure for him, he enjoys riding in the car, hunting for critters (no cat homes need apply!), playing fetch (he even brings the ball back--and drops it!), and just hanging out with his people. He also enjoys being the center of attention, and for that reason needs to be the only dog where he will not have to compete for affection.

Because Somi has spent so much of his life alone, we'd like a family for him where someone is home most of the time. He bonds quickly and loves deeply, and therefore his new owner needs to be alert for any signs of over-protecting his family and home, and deal with them accordingly. Somi would do well in an active household where he would get the exercise he needs and the interaction with people he craves. He needs a firm but kind hand in training, where house rules and his place in the family hierachy are clearly communicated. A training class is a must. This is a highly intelligent, affectionate boy who will make a delightful, devoted family companion.

If you are looking for a Kerry like Somi, and have lots of love to give this sweet boy, please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

Donations are needed for us to continue our Rescue work. If you think Rescues like Somi are well worth the time, effort, and expense, then let us know by making a donation. It can make a huge difference in the life of a dog. Just ask Somi! See Donations.

31-May-05

Meet Bitsy!

Itsy Bitsy, or Bitsy for short, was rescued by the Foundation from a dog auction and from a life of being bred over and over again in a puppy mill. The night her Foster Mom picked her up and asked if she was ready to go home and have supper, Bitsy cocked her head and wagged her tail. Despite life in a mill, we knew then that the Kerry spirit was alive and well in this little girl.

Bitsy

Bitsy is VERY affectionate and craves the human touch--pawing her Foster Mom for attention, and climbing right into her lap for hugs and cuddles--a real snugglebug! She is learning to play with toys, and loves her squeaky turtle the most. She has also discovered pillows--pillows!--and considers them the best bed a girl ever had.

Bitsy is 1 1/2 years old and very small for a female Kerry (16 inches). She does well with other dogs, and her initial introduction to a cat went well. Bitsy came to us intact, with open wounds which required sutures, parasites, and dirty teeth--all of which have been taken care of. She had an allergic reaction to an antibiotic and became ill after spaying, but her only long-term health issue is a condition known as "dry eye" (known in the breed), which requires daily drops in her eyes.

This sweet, young, outgoing girl would do best in a home where someone is there during the day to lavish attention on her, and provide the house-training she needs. We think Bitsy would do well in a home with older children, and perhaps another dog. She will need an obedience class and ongoing socialization with other dogs and people to truly blossom into the Kerry she was meant to be.

11-Apr-05

Update

The top photo shows Bitsy shortly after her rescue from a mill in May 2005. The bottom photo shows her only 8 months later in January 2006. What a remarkable difference! Bitsy is owned and loved by Susan & Dennis Charrette and their Lab Duke.

Meet Tommy O'Toole!

Tommy O'Toole spent 5 long years imprisoned in puppy mills until his rescue by the Foundation from a dog auction last month. The spirit of a lesser dog would have been killed by now, but not Tommy's! He playfully romped in the yard enjoying his first taste of freedom, and thoroughly appreciated being petted and touched. He must have known that the best of his life was just beginning. After all these years, Tommy was free to be the Kerry Blue Terrier he was meant to be.

Tommy

This photo was taken immediately after Tommy's rescue.

Unfortunately, Tommy's romps in the yard were temporarily short-lived when he tested both positive and negative for brucellosis, a sexually transmitted bacterial disease found in breeding stock that is contagious to other dogs and, rarely, to people. Another test was run through a different laboratory, with the same results. Although false positives are common, we couldn't take a chance and needed to quarantine Tommy in a foster home with no other dogs until the definitive blood culture test could be done at Cornell University. Despite pleas on KB-L, Wheaten-L, and Terrier-L, and extensive networking, no home could be found. No one was willing to foster this sweet boy, and he remained at the vet's in a crate for 3 long weeks. The day after the "negative-negative" results came in from Cornell, Tommy was placed in the loving home we had waiting for him--people who truly deserved a wonderful dog like this.
Today, Tommy's family calls him the "perfect dog," but in truth, they are the perfect family for him. Shy though sweet, Tommy needs the patience, love, compassion, and care his family has to give to become a well-adjusted family companion. He is learning about everyday household noises he's never heard--the pop of a Pepsi can, the crackle of saran wrap--and settling into family life with all its sights, sounds, and smells he's never known. For him, it is a whole new world. And for his family, this is a dog like none other. All the joy of watching him blossom belongs to them.

If you would like to volunteer to help rescue, foster, or adopt a Kerry like Tommy, please contact:

Rescues are expensive.To help finance this rescue and future rescues, please make a donation to the Kerry Foundation. It can make a huge difference in the life of a dog. See Donations.

23-Apr-05

Meet Muggins!

Muggins came into the Kerry Foundation Rescue program at the end of January after his 88-year-old owner could no longer care for him, and after spending 3 weeks in a boarding kennel with no place to go. He arrived in foster care exhausted, unhappy, and not well. Today, you would not believe he was the same dog! With proper vet care, nutrition, love, and attention, this dog has been restored to the proud and handsome Kerry male that he is. With his head and tail held high, he prances like a Kerry in a show ring, and runs in circles for the shear joy of it. Muggins has been reborn.

Muggins

His foster mom describes him as a "dignified, intelligent male Kerry, who enjoys his people, is protective of them, and is alert and sharp." He's a gentle, loving dog who likes to be near someone all the time, but he is not pushy or demanding. Muggins is a talker--he doesn't whine but makes a series of soft growls and huffs like he's carrying on a conversation. He also does little dance steps and head tosses that caused a house guest to laugh out loud. This dog has character!

When Muggins came to us, he was reported to be dog and cat aggressive. Although he hasn't made friends with the household cat (who teases him), dogs are a different story. He greets them with keen interest (see photo below) and an enthusiastic bark that could be mistaken for aggression, but he plays and interacts well with the resident male Kerry, the male Lab mix next door, a Beagle puppy, a male Miniature Poodle, and a Lab-sized dog in the schoolyard. We expect him to do well with any non-aggressive dog.

Muggins

Muggins is 12 years young, neutered, in good health (with full vet records), and is AKC-registered. Totally housebroken, Muggs hasn't had a single accident in foster care. He is used to a quiet household where someone is home during the day, and where he will get good solid exercise daily to build up his muscle tone. He has a lot to offer the right family--love, loyalty, and true companionship. Maybe he's right for you?

Muggins

If you have a loving home to give Muggins, and preferably live in the Northwest or within driving distance, please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

28-Feb-05

Meet Kaylie!

Kaylie is a delightful 3-month-old female Kerry puppy who was given up by her owner who discovered she was more dog than she bargained for. (Yes, Kerries can be like that!) Kaylie

Kaylie is a sweet-tempered, confident, gentle girl who loves her foster family and everyone she meets--and all the attention she gets from them! She is personable, outgoing, fun-loving, and dare we say, a wee bit stubborn? ("Forget the leash, and let's GO!") This is an Irish girl with a strong will to match.

Although Kaylie plays well with other dogs, including her foster family's Kerry male, she is nonetheless assertive, and will require early and ongoing socialization with other dogs to learn appropriate behavior. Kerries that are well socialized early on are far less likely to show dog-to-dog aggression (common in the breed) later in life. Like all Kerries, Kaylie needs firm but fair discipline, consistency, and proper training to be the best she can be. In the right home, this little girl will exemplify the true spirit of the breed, and make a truly excellent family companion. Kaylie

We are looking for a home where someone is home during the day to provide the care a puppy needs; one with experience in Kerries or other terriers, who can provide proper socialization and training, and oodles of love.

Is that you? If so, please complete our Adoption Questionnaire and contact:

The Kerry Foundation would like to thank Kaylie's very special foster family for their financial support, Kerry expertise, and for opening their home and hearts to this little girl. They have done much to ensure the future welfare of this puppy.

6-Mar-05

Say Hello To Sapphire!

This little girl was found in a NJ shelter after she had been picked up as a stray 3 weeks earlier. Judged to be only 2 1/2 years old, she came to us completely shaved down--a sign that her coat had been badly neglected. Yet even without hair, Sapphire is a very pretty girl, as you can see from her picture!

When she arrived in foster care, Sapphire was excited and excitable, showing signs of nervousness, dog aggression, and possessiveness over food (even when fed in her crate). Yet each passing day brought remarkable changes. She settled down and began to relax. She learned to interact appropriately with her 2 Kerry housemates--following one around with her tail wagging, even sharing a big doggie pillow with one of them. She learned that she needn't guard her food bowl, and she even began playing with her toys. These are signs that she is recovering from the upheaval of losing her home, living on the streets, and being in a confusing shelter environment. If we give our Kerries time, provide the security of a routine, and work with them one-on-one, they do adjust! Sapphire's adjustment to her new home and family is a shining example for every adopter and foster family who cares for a Rescue dog.

From the very first day, Sapphire was sweet and affectionate with people, obedient (with a knowledge of all basic obedience commands), curious and attentive, and highly intelligent. What sets she apart is her Attitude, with a capital A. She embodies the gameness we admire in the breed, the spunk and spirit, that "take charge" attitude, and the pride, courage, and strength that we so value in our Kerries. Sapphire is a very special girl! And she needed a very special home, which we were fortunate to find very quickly.

So, although Sapphire's adoption is pending, we would like to encourage you to complete our Adoption Questionnaire if you are looking for a Kerry like her--or even one very different. Kerries of all temperaments and persuasions find their way to us, and perhaps they will find their way to you, too.

Please know that rescues are expensive. To help us continue our work and rescue other Kerries in need, please consider making a donation. It can save a life. See Donations.

28-Dec-04

Meet Kirby!

Kirby

Kirby is a happy, healthy 9-year-old who is about to lose his second home. When his first master was stricken with cancer, Kirby went to live with the master's daughter and her family. Now, the daughter's family will be moving overseas at the end of November and can't take Kirby with them. This boy needs a new home soon!

Kirby is one of those Kerries that will fit in almost anywhere. He has lived a quiet life in an apartment with a senior citizen, yet was accustomed to lots of activity when the grandchildren visited--infants to 7-year-olds. Today, he is well adjusted to a family with other dogs, cats, and 2 young children (one a newborn), and loves romping in their large back yard. Not only does he do well with people of all ages, in quiet and active households, he also does well with other dogs and cats.

Kirby is an active boy, in good condition and excellent health. He has been well cared for all this life, with regular vet check-ups, teeth-cleaning, and grooming. Kirby knows his basic obedience commands, is good on a lead, and has a strong desire to please. He's described as a sensitive boy, without a mean bone in his body--"such a good guy!" his owner says.

We are looking for a home that will give Kirby the love and attention he craves, and who will appreciate his sweet personality. He's going to make someone a delightful, loyal companion. Maybe you?

1-Nov-05

On Mar 24, 2007, at 3:49 PM, Priscilla Harvey wrote:

Kirby was a rescue that we fostered then adopted over two years ago. At
first I didn't think much of his following me around when I ran the vacuum
though he was glued to me and I had to be careful to not move suddenly, just
happy that he wasn't terrified of it. Then Kirby finally gave up being subtle and
started blocking me. Guess you can see where this is going...Kirby wanted
to be vacuumed! He must be vacuumed for awhile or I can't get anything done.
He likes the floor brush but the small, round dusting brush is his favorite.
Sometimes I just use the wand without an attachment and he's happy about
that too. It doesn't matter if it's the central vac or the canister one, it's
all about the amount of time. He starts as soon as the hose comes out!

Priscilla Harvey
Kirby and Cialey
Nazareth PA

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2005 Rescue Kerries Placed

Pinky Bryce

Maxx!

Meet Xander!

Meet Oskar the Gentle Soul

Meet Happy Jack!

Meet Marly!

Meet Lilly!

Meet O'Grady!

Meet Jessie!

Meet Higgins!

Meet Dexter!

Meet Pewter!

Meet Lady Sierra!

Meet Bailey!

Meet Somi!

Meet Bitsy!

Update

Meet Tommy O'Toole!

Meet Muggins!

Meet Kaylie!

Say Hello To Sapphire!

Meet Kirby!

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