Sunnin' with JoJo
JoJo is enjoying the deck on these sunny spring days! We recently took him on a long car trip and he is a perfect traveler.

Spring Fun!
Gus (Brody), in background, and Sophie (Chloe),foreground, are enjoying their new life with our family. They love each other very much and make us laugh every day. We are so lucky to have them in our lives. The Donaldson’s

GRRAND Therapy
I have been meaning to email y'all a picture of my dog that I adopted from GRRAND in June 2007. He of course is wonderful and has been a certified therapy dog for almost two years. I also want to thank you for everything y'all do and tell you how lucky I have been to adopted him from GRRAND.

We were also wondering if y'all have any puppies available to adopt that haven't been posted on the website yet. We are looking for another dog and would live to adopt from GRRAND again. Thanks again.

Gloria Gellin and Argus

Can't get 'enuf that Sugarbear...
Formally known as "Ryan", Sugarbear came into our home and hearts in April 2012. After a shaky first few weeks and being told he was "socially catatonic", he is now fully adapted and socially enjoys people, other animals and even small children loving on him. He enjoys taking a few walks each day and laying on his bed, the couch! He loves his food each day and especially looks forward to his "fillers" of carrots or cooked frozen green beans. He has been labled as a "velcro dog" because he just loves to lay himself next to his mom or pretend he is a lapdog for some snuggle time. We are enjoying Sugarbear and so glad to have him in our lives!
Connie

Ahhh the Goooood Life!
JoJo is happy to be in his forever home! He goes for long runs and walks with his people, who adore him, and has lots of play time in his big back yard. He is bringing lots of joy to his people!

Reneé

Happy Holidays from Aggie...
I hope your holidays and New Year are filled with lots of playing in the yard and treat eating (2 of my favorite things)!!!
Kisses...
Aggie, the 3-legged Wonder Dog (#1993)
12-2012

Christmas with Roxy Bell
Happy New Year! Hello again, this is Roxy Bell, and I just celebrated my fourth Christmas at the Bell's. We had fun, and don't tell anyone, but on Christmas Eve, my dad slipped me some t-bone steak! We had lots of fun, and I received presents like Feeders Supply cookies and squeaky toys.

We had people over for Christmas Eve and Christmas morning brunch, and I received lots of hugs and cuddles. For a while, I wasn't into cuddling, but now I love to cuddle! I did have to share the limelight with Fiona, the golden doodle and my mom and dad's five year old granddaughter, Alex.

At night, my mom and dad snuggle with me and give me my nighttime dog treats, then, they tell me that I am the sweetest dog in the world. I like that time because I get all the attention!

My mom and dad tell me that they will always be thankful to GRRAND for picking me for them. They say I am perfect.

Love, Roxy Bell

The Wild Boys
These smiling boys are George and Chipper. George is the red boy on the left. Chipper on the right. They were both "very energetic" when we adopted them. George is now 14 years old- didn't calm down until about 2 years ago.
We would not have had it any other way. Even at 14, he managed to knock the Christmas tree over at Feeders Supply. It was pure comedy. Chipper is about 7. Not remotely grown-up. Total Peter Pan. They are a living testament to the fact the "The Wild Boy Golden Retrievers" are always worth it. They give us immense love and a large amount of laughter every day.
Teri and Mike

Abby continues to amaze...
Abby joined our family in December of 2010. After the loss of our dog Sophie, it was time to fill the emptiness left behind. Through GRRAND, Abby came to us directly from her previous home. She was well cared for and very timid with her new surroundings. Abby and I both had an adjustment period- she missing her other family and I missing Sophie. Thankfully- we helped each other through that period and found that we were made for each other.

We also found that Abby had the beginning of a cataract in one eye. Almost two years later her cataract had fully matured and she began having corneal degeneration in the same eye. Up until the last month Abby's mobility had been very good. She has been working as a Therapy Dog at a local hospital and enjoys play dates with Willow and Cam Kelsen.

I’m happy to say Abby had surgery on her eye and is doing very well. Dr. Kuonen of MedVet Cincinnati performed the cataract removal, lens insertion and also removed some scar tissue. We want to thank GRRAND for their continued support of Abby for her surgery. The medical staff at Blue Pearl who worked with Abby originally and the MedVet staff who care for her now have been nothing short of amazing.

Abby will be back to her Therapy Dog role soon. She continues to amaze me with her ability to calm and befriend everyone she meets. The impact she has during her hospital visits has been a joy to witness and experience with her. None of this would have been possible if not for the efforts of many GRRAND volunteers during her adoption and after.

Thank you GRRAND! ~ Pam & Abby 11-2012
Here is Abby one day after her surgery with Dr. Vanessa Kuonen

Celebrating a wonderful life with Lizzie
We are celebrating Lizzie 11th birthday today --8 of those wonderful years have been with us since we adopted her from GRRAND!

She is our devoted companion and family member. She looks forward to her daily golf cart ride to our marina's Ship Store where she spends her days sleeping under my feet or greeting our guests.

Winters are spent near the beach in Florida. Last winter we learned the 5 mile morning beach walks were too much for her aging hips. Now she enjoys the car rides TO the beach so she can romp in the surf. She never ceases to amaze us with her memory of places she has been. She still tries to drag us down that path that she knows will take her to the beach, over a mile away. Now when the car arrives at the beach parking area, her ears perk up and she prances the rest of the way. She know just where to head and takes the same path between the beach shops each time.

I am attaching a recent picture of Lizzie showing her "sugar face''. New obstacles are ahead as we know she is losing her hearing. We are with her all the way, showering her with love, doggie treats, boat rides and long swims! Looking forward to many more precious years with our wonderful Golden girl!

Thanks again to GRRAND for bringing her to us!

Jeanne and Alan

10.18.12

I have found my forever family...
Hi, this is Bailey(nee Jodie ). Just wanted to update everybody on my new home. Even though It's only been 10 months I feel like I've been in my new forever home ... well Forever! Thanks for all your help in finding my new Mommy and Daddy!
Bailey (with Jim, and Terry)

10-2012

Bailey has completed our family...
On behalf of myself, my husband and our senior Golden Girl, Lilly, we can not express just how thrilled we are that Bailey (formerly, Beanie) has come into our lives to complete our family. We first heard of GRRAND at the Cincinnati Pet Expo several years ago and fell in love with them. As of January, I began Pet Therapy work with our Lilly and have found it so rewarding. She is now 10 and is beginning to slow down a bit. So, we decided to look for another Golden to carry on the torch once she is no longer able to make visits. After praying to find just the right Golden for Therapy work, we were introduced to Bailey at the kennel and we all three immediately knew he was the one. He is absolutely perfect and has adapted to our home and lifestyle as if he's always been here. He and Lilly are best friends and love to wrestle, play or snuggle any time they can. He is so affectionate and sweet. Bailey had a difficult road before he came to us, being found as a stray in Columbus. He was overweight and needed some TLC. Thankfully, the great folks at GRRAND rescued him and we now have the joy of loving him and taking care of him for the rest of his days. He has begun to slim down and has wonderful energy. Thank you so much, GRRAND! We couldn't be happier!!
Jan
9-2012

Shelby and Maggie... long lost sisters
Just thought I'd check in and let you know all is well. We're all adapting to each other very well and you'd think Maggie and Shelby had always been together. No jealousy and no bad behavior at all. They take turns at my feet without conflict and both sleep on the floor right next to my bed.
Both these babes are sweethearts and beautiful. They're both snoozing at my feet right now.
I do believe this will be a love triangle that will work just fine!
Best to all,
MJ
9-2012

Precious is our Joy!
Precious is now 15 years old. She still loves her walks in the park and around the neighborhood... but the shorter version. She is no longer able to run with me as arthritis has set in her lower back and legs and she uses stairs to get onto the bed now. Her years of devotion to us and her constant companionship have enriched our lives greatly. She truly is "precious" and a "JOY" in our lives.

Heather and Bob
9-2012

One bonded pair of boys
These brothers were picked up wandering the woods and fields and amazingly they stuck together through 106 degree weather for a couple of months, just scavenging for food. They are getting stronger and healthier everyday, and responding well to our lives and care. Track and Trapper are so sweet and loving, and so very bonded to each other. Each day they gain more confidence, play with each other more and experience something new! We are so thrilled having them as a part of our family!
We are so grateful once again to GRRAND for the work they do, and particularly to Jane as she helped us through this journey to fill the void from our beloved Brighton who died recently. (and was also adopted through GRRAND)
Thanks,
Molly and Doug
7-12

Max is the most wonderful dog!
Max (aka Prince) is the most wonderful dog. We are so in love with him. Thanks for everything!
Claire
7-12

We have joined the "foster failure club"
After fostering dozens of goldens in our time with GRRAND, sometimes for months at a time, we became first time “foster failures” within a few weeks of Addy entering our home. Beautiful, sweet and always eager to please – Addy is your typical golden girl. She craves attention from her people, adores her toys and she LOVES water. We are so grateful for the amazing work GRRAND does and feel privileged to be even a small part of rescuing these amazing dogs. Though we can now only foster one dog at a time, Addy is most definitely worth the sacrifice and we already can’t picture our family without her. To anyone considering fostering – It won’t only change the life of the each of the dogs you save, but it will change yours too. "Through the love of those I have been privileged to rescue, I have been rescued too."

Thanks GRRAND, from the bottom of our hearts.

Sarah and Scott
6-12

Willow and Cam
We adopted Willow from GRRAND in 2010 and Cam in 2012. They have brought joy and laughter to our lives, and we are so thankful to GRRAND for saving them.

Willow (on the right) was a pregnant stray who was picked up by a shelter and then rescued by GRRAND. She successfully delivered 11 puppies, and we first saw her after she and the puppies were moved to a wonderful foster home in Cincinnati. Willow is a clown who delights in her antics - how can you resist her laughing face and energetic tail wagging? Cam (on the left) was a stray who was found with a pregnant female dog, and he is believed to be the father of her 12 puppies. We first saw Cam’s picture when he was in the shelter, and GRRAND agreed that we could take him as a foster dog. We quickly became foster failures after we saw how wonderfully he fit into our home and how much he and Willow enjoyed each other’s company. Cam seems to be part herding dog, and he makes sure that we are all together and safe.

Thank you, GRRAND, for all you do for all the Willows and Cams in the world.

Sadie and Beau: truly two peas in a pod
Well, we’ve been blessed with two of the best additions to our family since losing our beloved Emma and Pretzel. Sadie (formerly Kendall) and Beau (formerly Winter) have come into our lives bringing such a great spirit of fun, love and energy. As seen here just days ago, they are inseparable…sleep together, play together, walks together, etc. We’ve had many people ask if they were brother and sister from the same litter or parents since they are truly two peas in a pod. Beau (almost 6 months old) is the happiest little puppy always ready to greet us at the door or giving kisses to anyone who comes near. It truly was fate that Beau came into our lives after his original adoptive family brought him back to GRRAND so that he could come home to us. Sadie (almost 18 months old) and Beau love to play, tackle and wrestle in the house or out in the backyard! Thank you to everyone at GRRAND for bringing us Beau (and Sadie).
Thanks,
Steve and family

JenBo
At the time of adoption, we believe she went by the name of Shea. She’s now Jenny, a.k.a. JenBo, shown here with her favorite toy. She must know rawhide bones aren’t good for her because she won’t eat it. She carries it around the house and in the back yard daily, but never chews on it. Her nylon bones, on the other hand, are chewed like there’s no tomorrow.

Thanks again for helping us link up with our golden girl. Her housemate, Haley Belle, passed away in January after nearly 14 years of extended puppydom. That void will never be filled, but we love JenBo all the same!

Mike

Sleepy is one lucky boy!
Hi, my name is Sleepy (yes, I like to sleep a lot). My former parents sold my house, and left me behind in the back yard. The people who bought my house found me, and turned me into GRRAND. After a month of being with my foster mom, this lady came to my rescue. I have only been with her for a little over a week, but boy do I feel like I hit the jackpot. I have all of the love, food, and toys a boy could ever want. She tells me I am probably more spoiled than most kids! I am not sure what that means, but if it means that I get all of the belly rubs I want, I will go along with it! I have pretty much taken over the house. She lets me leave my toys all over the floor. Sometimes I see her put them back in this basket thing, and I go right behind her and get them back out. I am not sure why she tries to pick them up. I have them exactly where I want them, she should just leave them there, it will save work for the both of us! She also tells me that I have the funniest personality. When I take her for walks, I will sometimes run her through a bush or two. She keeps telling me we need to work on the whole leash thing. Hey, I am 9 years old. I am kind of set in my ways, but she says with some time and a few treats, the whole walking thing will get better. I don’t know what the big deal is. I love our walks! My mommy tells me that I have saved her just as much as she has saved me. She gives me kisses and tells me she loves me to pieces. Thank you GRRAND for bringing my new mommy and I together! Love, Sleepy

Jordan Sweet Girl!
As I just received my copy of the Grrand Growl and was looking at all the touching stories, great information, and sweet pictures of many beautiful Goldens, I thought I would send an update about our sweet Grrand girl, Jordan.
She came to us about six months ago and has been such a joy! She is such a sweet and intelligent girl and we love her very much. Her favorite chew toys are nylabones, tennis balls, and her big brother Hammy! I have attacheded a recent picture.
Thank you for all you do for Goldens and thank you for bringing Jordan into our lives. We are eternally grateful!
Sincerely,
Ron, Sarah, Evan, and Ethan

Hello again GRRAND!
This is Louie (formerly Sunshine) checking in again. It's been nearly 5 years since you helped me find my forever home! I'm a bit of an old man now, but I'm still a silly, bouncy Golden! I wanted you all to know that I'm happy, healthy, and beloved by my family -- and I'm still a beach bum and a canine comedian! Here's a picture of me and my sister, Ellie, in our Halloween costumes from the WAGS party last year (I'm the handsome fella on the left). We were "Golden Receivers" and won for best dog costume!

We're headed to the beach again soon and I'm sure Mom will send you some new pictures of my antics!!!

Thank you for saving me!
Louie (and Beth & Rick)

Happy 2012!
Hi, this is Roxy for the third time. I have had my third Christmas with the Bell's and we had a great time. We had a Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas morning brunch, and I was one of the honored guests! I had goodies in my stockings and lots of presents. As you can see, that Golden Doodle, Fiona, is still around so I have to share attention, but I am definitely the queen of the house. My family is still always grateful to GRRAND, and they wish that all the other dogs could find homes. They love me so much, and I am even adjusting to cuddling and playing with toys. Thank you again to GRRAND for everything! Roxy Bell

Happy Holidays from Riley & Lucy
Last summer, we brought home two GRRAND puppies, Riley and Lucy. We couldn't be happier with our decision to adopt these two. They fill our home with love, wet kisses, muddy paw prints, tumbleweeds of golden hair, and so much affection and energy. They have adjusted well to their forever home. Their new home is just a few blocks from a park that they love to visit on our daily walks. We just wanted to say thank you to GRRAND for taking great care of Riley and Lucy until we could give them their forever home. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Josh, Sarah, Riley, & Lucy

Brook with family
I'm Brook, and my foster family admitted they couldn't do without me. I'm one of those pups too smart for her own good, but my mom loves that about me. I constantly make her laugh, and I comfort her when she's feeling poorly - even when she won't admit it to anyone. I grew up with my fur aunts and uncle. I am one of Willow's 11 puppies, you see. My Aunt Clover has taught me how to snitch and get peanut butter out of my Kong. My Aunt Fern has taught me how to sleep like a log in strange positions. My Uncle Charger has taught me that being different is a wonderful thing to be if you have the right two-leggers to love you. All three of them have taught me how to be good with people and other dogs. I am very happy! Thank you GRRAND for never giving up on me. This picture is of me (on the right) and my Momma, Willow.

4 Goldens Sing!
Just wanted to wish everyone at Grrand a Merry Christmas! Thank you for all your hard work in rescuing these wonderful dogs. Colonel,(10) Lady,(11) Rex,(7) and Cinnamon (14) send their thanks too. Rex is singing "We wish you a Merry Christmas", but the rest of the crew especially Lady is not enjoying it. lol

Kim & JR

Greetings from Katie and Holly!!
We are so happy in our new forever home. Mom adopted us over a year ago, after she lost her Golden Boy Buddy. As soon as we saw her, we knew how to cheer her up, with doggie kisses and retrievers smiles. She tells us every day how lucky she was that GRRAND took care of us until she could meet us and take us home. We love our new big yard, and Mom plays fetch with us every day!! Did we mention we are the darlings of the neighborhood? Everybody loves to pet us, and Mom is so proud, she just adores us. We sometimes bring her little gifts like rabbits or birds. We made her squeal a time or too. HEE HEE

We love our Christmas tree and like to lay with our heads underneath it and sleep. We never bother any ornaments, we just like be in the Christmas spirit. We hope everyone has a wonderful Holiday Season, and to the Goldens still waiting. we wish them to find their new forever homes soon.

Love to all
Katie and Holly

Inquisitive Casey
After losing our 12 year old Golden, Reilly, last year, we were planning on waiting before getting another dog. However, after discovering the GRRAND web site and seeing a picture of Lady, waiting was no longer an option.

We visited Lady at the home of her wonderful foster family and immediately fell in love. We took her home to Dayton, changed her name to Casey (in honor of her predecessor Reilly) and informed her that we were moving to Florida. She took the news in stride, and is loving her new backyard.

Casey is fascinated with the Florida wildlife, especially chameleons.She has presented us with several as well as a small snake and various dragon flies and grasshoppers. I can't imagine there is a more curious and alert dog. On our walks we can't pass a squirrel, a cat or an open garage door without her checking it out. Can you imagine walking a kangaroo on a leash?

She is a bit of a disappointment to her breed. She's really not interested in swimming. She will swim if carried into the pool, but she'd much rather chase critters as you can see from the pictures.

Thank you GRRAND and all the supporters for rescuing sweet, loving little girls like Casey. We're looking forward to many years of enjoyment with our little girl.

Sadie a beautiful, well behaved lady!
Sadie (formerly Kendall)…

We are happy to report that Sadie is doing well with her adopted family. She enjoys long walks with mom and dad while playing in the yard with her neighbor buddies Murphy and Zoe! We are so blessed to have her brighten our day after the loss of our beloved Emma (18 years) past away this summer. Sadie has grown up to be a beautiful, well behaved young lady! We are so thankful for the folks at GRRAND for giving Sadie and other beautiful puppies a great home and chance for a better life!

Steve

My Little Shadow
Since arriving at our home she has made the recliner her new napping spot during the day, and our bed has become her bed at night. She has become my little shadow and has her nose in everything! For the most part she's been very well behaved. My other two goldens just put up with her and when they've had enough they coming running to us for protection. She's a lot more energetic than my other two ever were, but we are all adjusting just fine.

We took her to the vet just for an overall checkup a few weeks ago. She's lost a few pounds since we first received her but our vet says she's doing well and would not want her to gain much more weight anyway. He said she's a great looking Golden Retriever!

Take Care,
Lisa

Delightful Malcom
Just wanted to drop a line to let you know Malcolm is doing fabulously and he is such a delight!! He settled into our routine in no time. He's made Bailey more active. They are getting along fine (just a little jealousy over toys by Bailey, but nothing serious). You've done a great job with Malcolm and we love him dearly!
Debbie

Molly the Wonder Pooch
Molly (formerly Jewel) was the runt of the litter and was not expected to survive but her foster family stayed up all night with her and nursed her back to health. Molly was about four months when we adopted her and she was a nervous and scrawny little thing. We gave her a safe house and three kids who shower her with love and Molly is an unbelievably awesome dog. We trained her to fetch the newspaper which she does dutifully every morning for a treat! We loaded a video of her fetching the paper on youtube (molly the wunder pooch). We are blessed to have Molly in our family and thank GRRAND and her foster family for their help!

Emily, Maggie and Carter

Maddy Lily After
We are so blessed that Lily is a part of our family! She is such a special little girl. She has been amazing with our 13-year-old golden girl Maddy and the two of them are very close already despite the difference in their ages. Maddy acts like Lily's mommy and is always looking out for her, and Lily loves to sleep next to Maddy, sit on her back like a mountain goat, and play tug-of-war with her too! Lily has put a constant smile on our faces with her antics and we love her dearly. Our older golden has more spring in her step and we know she loves the companionship too... and as you can see, she is always happy to share her bed for a snooze. Thank you GRRAND for our sweet, sweet Lily!
Laura and Joe

Sunshine & Brady

Best Friends
As you can see, our GRRAND boys Shanahan and Sammy are adjusting well to our new house in Atlanta GA!

Marianne and Brian

Happy Dog Family
This year has brought us two great dogs from GRRAND! This spring we added ‘bradley’ formerly known as b.ley, and about 10 months old. Recently, this summer in the middle of a heat wave, we brought home ‘sunshine’, an 8 week old little girl. Both were fostered by the same wonderful people. Along with our 2 year old golden, ‘dusty’. We now have a busy, happy dog family. In this picture, bradley, the blonde pup, is wondering why he is on the outside, looking in at sunshine (with a peek of dusty’s nose, also, in the picture). Thank you so much to grrand for letting us adopt these two awesome dogs!

Carol, Charlie, Gabriella and Heather

Wedding Assistant
Four years ago, we adopted our wonderful little Maisy girl (formerly named Carrie). She has brought so much joy, love, and laughter to our lives...we cannot imagine life without her!! Chris and I just got married in May, and Maisy sat at my feet the entire day while I was getting ready. Doesn't this photo just melt your heart?? She is the sweetest dog we could ever ask for!!!

Jill and Chris

Shaggy Dog Story
1 year ago today you all allowed me to take in someone who, when I look back some day, I'll be able to say was one of the best friends I ever had - Shaggy. Thank you!

Thanks for Bromley!
Bromley arrived in my house on 9 April 2011. Since then, he’s warmed not only my heart but the hearts of the kids in the neighborhood and those he meets at the Dog Park.

Settling in wasn’t difficult for him – he never once entered the crate. Laying down as I directed him inside the crate, he made it known that he didn’t need to do this; he would be fine without that restriction. So, he was left on his own from day one and hasn’t given me any reason to second guess my decision. Bromley truly enjoys being around humans. But, his passion is the small dogs at the dog park. One of his best friends is a 10 pound, 8 month old Beagle, named Baxter. They trot alongside each other, smelling around and running after tennis balls.

Bromley is also the most well adjusted, or as Caesar would say – “well balanced”, dog I’ve seen in a long time. He greets every dog that enters the park and then goes around and says hello to every human. If a dog tries to be ‘alpha’ over him, he just smiles, looks elsewhere and takes off to another dog to say hello. He never gives notice to any dog that has issues.

Just wanted to let you know how it’s going with him. He’s wonderful and I’m enjoying him very much. I’m actually looking for a small dog to be his buddy around the house!

Vickie

Allie & Amber
Finally got your picture of the girls in the water! Can you believe how big amber has gotten? Amazing what having your own bowl of food! She is the first to the toy or stick each time who would have ever thought she could be competitive?

Edy... Formerly "Farris"
Hello!

I just wanted to send along this adorable picture of Edy adjusting to life
with a new baby sister! Thanks Grrand for such a wonderful dog!

Liz

Watching Over Us
After the unexpected loss of our 8 year old golden, Sam and the anticipation of our college age children leaving in August, our family looked to fill our lives with a dog who needed a home. We completed our GRRAND screening and were quickly given the opportunity to meet two special boys, Travis and Rushmore! While Travis barked a lot at the kennel and Rushmore nervously chewed through the leash that we had brought for him, they made the trip home as veteran travelers and were amazingly well behaved at a dinner party held at our home just hours later! We decided to change the name of one - the name just didn't seem to suit him - calling him by a double name for over 3 weeks! While completing our adoption, we were given their microchip numbers and told to have the primary contact information changed. Our initial phone call explained why one of the names didn't fit - their names had been reversed when they were surrendered! Poor guys must have been really confused. We decided to honor them with no name changes at all!

Travis and Rushmore take care of one another and watch over us. They have quickly won our hearts. Travis still loves to bark and is a bit uncertain with strangers and new places. Rushmore is nervous at times but is nurturing and protective of Travis. They have bonded well with Mill's dog, Huck. We miss our Sammy terribly but cannot imagine our home without these wonderful boys. We have been truly blessed - twice!

We are so grateful for GRRAND and all that they accomplish for dogs and families in need. We can't thank you enough!

The very happy family of Travis and Rushmore

Rusty & Hansen
Good sunny afternoon from Greene County Ohio. Rusty and Hansen here. We just got home from the beauty shop . Mom said we are just beautiful!!!
Things are going well here in Xenia. We are still as happy as frogs in a lily pond and spoiled rotten.
We hope you all have a wonderful spring. And don’t forget us golden oldies if you can open you heart and home to a GRRAND boy or girl.

Hansen and Rusty
3-27-11

Cooper Life Changer
I adopted Cooper last March. He has changed my life and I can't imagine a day without him. Thanks to Shannon Baker for her encouragement and Sara Fick for fostering Cooper. (formerly Clint)
Thanks So Much,
Holly & Cooper

Lucky Amber
Hello, its me Amber. I have been in my forever home with the Carroll's for almost one year. In that year I have come to learn that I will have delicious food to eat every day. And every night before bed daddy gives Lady and I a big girl biscuit and a small drink of milk from our special milk bowls. My sister and I have a very important job after our snack, we warm up the bed for our early bird mommy. I have also learned that is it okay to sit on the couch any time I want without asking. I know that as soon as the sun comes up mommy takes Lady and I for our girl time walk. And the rest of our days are filled with lots of love and play. Mommy cuts my nails and cleans my ears, she even gives me a bath. And sometimes lets my two legged brothers help with brushing us. We have lots of neat toys and everyone plays with us. I have learned that when mommy or daddy are busy I can play with the boys or Lady. The boys are fun to play with since they like to run fast. I also have a great sister in Lady. She is a couple of years older, but a lot of fun. We snuggle, play tug a war, and just race around the yard. I am so glad that GRRAND matched me with the Carroll's. I look forward to every day and think I am one lucky dog:)

Amber

Happy New Year from Roxy!
This is my second Christmas here and I had a lot of fun! I got lots of presents and they treated me like a member of the family (which I am!) As you can see in the picture, my sister, Elizabeth, has adopted a goldendoodle puppy named Fiona. We have lots of fun together but sometimes she gets on my nerves! But I decided that she is family. We play in the mud, dig holes and share bones but she sometimes takes mine. My family thanks Grrand again for introducing them to me. They say that I am the most wonderful, sweetest dog. Thank you! -Roxy

Happy New Year from Colt
Hi Everyone! 20 lbs heavier and halfway through my heartworm treatment, I am celebrating the new year in style! I live in honor of my brothers Beau and Fizban, and they would be proud of the fine looking dog I have become and how I take care of mom and dad. My name is Colt, but it is a foregone conclusion that I will be referred to henceforth as the "little cocoa bean"... I'm big and tall enough that I doubt the other dogs will tease me much! I am so, so loved and it shows. Thanks GRRAND for saving me from starvation and sending me to humans who adore me and will do anything to make me better...and to The Princess, who tolerates me.....

Colt

Merry Christmas From Riley (Scooby)
I was just going through some Christmas pictures and thought I would share a few with you. These are pictures of Riley (formerly Scooby Doo, on left) that I adopted back in July.

He is still a work in progress. Keeps me on my toes every day! But, such a joy! At first, my other boy, Dakota, was not accepting of him, but now they are the best of friends. By the way, the little one is my parents' chihuahua.

These pictures were taken at Grammy's house (my Mom & Dad's) on Christmas Eve. Santa was also very good to the boys. They had tons of gifts to open on Christmas morning!

Best Regards,
Angela

Happy Shaggy Ending
Merry Christmas from Shaggy and Terry. Thanks for all you did this year! Shaggy is doing fine although he gets a little bored when it's too cold to go for a walk. We don't miss too many days though. He's going for a bath, trim and nails done this Friday. Happy Holidays,

Terry

Long Winter's Nap
This is Chaney & Rosie from Mercer Co, now known as Allie and Amber. Exhausted after all their company! Is this not about the cutest picture you've ever seen!

Amber Christmas Cheer
I just wanted to send you a photo of Amber. She saw Santa today at Petsmart for the first time. The photo is of Lady and Amber in the car on the way to Petsmart. They would not wear the Santa hats we bought them. So the hats were added to the photo via computer technology:) Amber has adjusted wonderfully to our family and we spoil her and her sister, Lady rotten with tons of love.

Thanks for all you do for GRRAND. Hope you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Melody

Hi! I’m Willow!
A few months ago I was alone and scared – and very pregnant. A shelter took me in, but they couldn’t keep me for too long so they called someplace named GRRAND. I didn’t know who GRRAND was, but much later my forever family told me that GRRAND means Safe – and now I understand! But before I get to that part, I want to tell you a little more about what happened after GRRAND came for me. I moved to a home where a kind family gave me a safe place to birth my puppies – and I had eleven! I almost died after giving birth to all of them, but the awesome lady from GRRAND made sure that I was ok.

When I was a little stronger, my puppies and I moved to a different house with another loving family – and this family also had three other GRRAND goldens for me to play with! This family helped me recover from the birth of my puppies and helped me to learn that I was special and deserved my own forever home. And guess what? A few months ago my forever family found me and took me home! They say I am a funny girl, and I make them laugh. I like to take their things, but I always wag my tail as hard as I can so they know that I don’t mean to get in trouble. They say that I need to learn my manners, and I promise that I’m working on them – whatever that means! But really, I’m just so happy that I found my forever home that sometimes I just can’t control my energy. Luckily, my family built me a nice fenced yard to run around in when I need to let off some of that excitement! I am so lucky to have found my forever family, and I want that for my puppies, too. I know they don’t look like me, but I hear that they have my temperament - their golden parts are shining through! Thank you GRRAND! Love, Willow

Thanks,
Iris

Gus and Louie are a true delight
Just wanted to let you know about the boys. It has been over one year since we adopted Gus and Louie (formerly Morgan and River). When we first contacted GRRAND we were looking for one puppy and possibly an older dog to be a companion of our 11 year old dog, Zoe. Little did we know we were not going to just adopt one, but two puppies. Their foster family would not allow them to be split and we are glad they didn't.
Gus and Louie are a true delight (and at times exasperating) to have with us! They are sweet, loving boys with very different personalities. Gus is very smart always watching how things are done and is happiest when he is being petted and touched. Louie is adventurous and more mischevious, always looking for something to do and get into. They love their daily treat of kongs filled with bananas and peanut butter. Gus and Louie were the top students at their behavior class (of course, they are goldens).They have attended two Golden Reunions and been GRRAND ambassadors dogs for the Cincinnati Pet Expo. These boys love each other and Zoe so much. Each night they seek her out for bedtime and snuggle up with her.
We truly can't believe it has been over a year since they came to us. We are so thankful they were able to stay together and become a part of our family.
Thanks,
Kelly and Becky

Charlie and Lisa, a GRRAND Pair
Charlie is doing absolutely amazing and he is the light of my life! I love him so much and I can’t imagine my life without him in it. He weighed in this weekend at the groomers at 90.4 lbs which was his goal weight. He also gets along great with my cat Riley and I think they are actually becoming friends. He has changed my life and I don’t do anything or go anywhere without him. He has made a lot of new friends. We visit a few dogs park each week, go swimming and take a least two super long walks each week. He loves to carry multiple toys in his mouth and can’t really leave the house without at least one. I have invested a small fortune in multiple toys, collars, etc. and I’m loving every minute of it.

Diane – please tell Shug that he is still one amazingly trained dog and that he did such a wonderful job with him. I’m so proud of him and we work on all of his commands every week and of course I use some on a daily basis. Please let him know that I have not let his training go to waste and I promise that I am keeping up on it. We have almost mastered the fetching of the ball and I have entered him in a contest to be the dog that fetches the first pitch at the next “Bark in the Park” day for the Reds in September. Keep your fingers crossed that he gets it! J

I count my blessings every day for GRRAND finding Charlie for me. He is truly amazing. Hopefully some day you can meet him. I plan to be a supporter of GRRAND for many years to come.

I hope this finds you all well!

Sincerely,
Lisa

Kings of Xenia
Good afternoon from beautiful Xenia, Ohio. Rusty and Hansen here for another update of our lives since Mom adopted us from GRRAND.
We are still happy and content in our forever home with mom. This summer will be four years for me Rusty and 3.5 years for me Hansen to be here with mom. And, we think we are in heaven & we are treated like we are big golden Kings and actually, we think we are.
Mom s grandson spends the night with us a few times a month, and where ever he us, we are with him. Mom says we act like we are guarding him from well, we don t actually know from what, but it s our job. And, every so often our nephew Charlie (another beautiful golden) spends the night with us and we all get along like three peas in a pod.
We hope you and your Goldens have a GRRAND summer. And as we always say don't over look us Senior Goldens when you are looking for a forever friend.

Phyllis, Rusty and Hansen

Chillin' with Izzak
We adopted Izzak (formerly Isaac) in March, 2005 (he was about 2.5 years old then) and wanted to give you an update on him. We kept his name and butchered up the spelling because he listen so well from the moment we picked him up, I didn't want to change it or possibly our luck. He is still the most adorably gentle, beautiful and quiet guy around. Hands down he's the best dog!

Izzak goes everywhere - walks, dog parks, soccer games, our friends' homes to hang out, and even to work. And when we can't take him with us, he has slumber parties with our two young nephews who also adore him! He is so chill wherever he is, rarely barks!

Izzak also has his share of play dates here at our house with Leo (a schnauzer mix) and Grady (boxer) and the three amigos are so fun to watch! Running and chasing balls around the yard and then they plop down in the grass after around at the ole water hole (the in ground pool). Boy does he sleep and snore after these dates!

The only issue Izzak may have is an overly snack loving Dad, so Izzak is now on low cal snacks! He loves all 2 and 4 legged animals even the grumpy cat who swats at him at the vet's office when Izzak was checking out what was in the glass box while waiting his turn for a check up. Boy did he duck under my seat and fast! I told grumpy cat you won't be gettin a home acting like that, you need to be "Izzak" chill!

Off to the dog park now.... Izzak and his family, the Sands

Sprocket... I am the luckiest dog alive!
Hello, my name is Sprocket (I’m the handsome blonde golden doodle in this picture) and I’m the luckiest dog alive. I know this because my family tells me that every day. I have a sister, Bailey (she is the pretty black golden doodle in the picture) and we have a lot of fun playing in the back yard. We chase each other and play hide and seek around the big trees.

When the Neal’s brought me home with them, my house manners were not very good. Now that I’m getting older, I’m getting much better. Bailey tries to teach me right from wrong, but I don’t always pay attention to her. In the past, I’ve chewed up some things that perhaps I shouldn’t have…..like my mom’s blackberry (boy was she mad), some eye glasses, a few stuffed toys, and a wooden window sill. I am 1 ½ now and I’m not chewing on as many things as I use to, but I still can’t resist stealing a dishcloth whenever I can (and sometimes I tear it to shreds – I just can’t help myself).

I’ve been to obedience school and love to ride in the car. When the weather is nice, my mom and dad take me to the dog park and Laney, who is 17, takes me to the Lunken walking path. I love going to the path because people always want to pet me and tell me how cute I am. That never gets old.

I have lots of fun knick names now like, “Puppy”, “Pumpkin”, and “Rocket”. But my favorite is “Puppy” because that means I’ve been really good.

Grandma, who is 73, takes me for a long walk every day. We go all through the neighborhood and if we meet up with the mailman, he gives me a dog biscuit. I love meeting up with him.

My family is right, I am the luckiest dog alive because even when I’m bad, they love me and promise to never send me away. Thank you GRRAND for giving me my family.

Dear GRRAND
It’s been bout 3 ½ years since we adopted Willow (aka Blondie) so I thought it about time to give you and Grrand an update. From the skinny, almost hairless dog that we took home, Willow has become a beautiful cream Golden. She’s tall and weighed 93 pounds at her last check up. Last summer Willow earned her Canine Good Citizen certificate and is a very calm, (except during thunderstorms and fireworks) confident, outgoing and loving girl, even demanding attention at times by putting her big paw on our legs. This spring Willow and I went through the Miami Valley Pet Therapy course, graduating in May. We now visit the kids at Dayton Children’s Medical Center on Wed. mornings as well as a monthly visit to Miami Valley Hosp.

Lydia, (aka Annika) our first golden girl adopted in 1995, is still our sensitive, Velcro dog following from room to room lest she miss something.

Last but not least is Stuart (aka Shelton), adopted in 1996, who crossed the Rainbow Bridge last Aug. at between 15 and 16 years old. He blessed our lives for 3 ½ years. We still miss him.

This spring I was able to help man the Grrand booth at 2 local dog walks and met Iris and Jill who are helping to spread Grrand rescue in the Dayton area.
Thank you so much for all the wonderful, hard work you do in saving these great dogs

Karen and Gene

Happy Forever Amber
I just wanted to give you an update on Amber. We adopted her in February and love her bunches. She is the perfect addition to our family. As you can see from the attached photo she and Lady love to snuggle, especially after a long day of playing and having fun. Her daily walks have brought her weight down from 84 pounds in February to 68 pounds in June. The vet tech said her weight is now perfect and she looks extremely happy.

Thanks
Melody

Hatty & Hildy on the Moors
Here are two photos of the girls that you might like. We recently moved to Exeter and these were taken on Dartmoor by a woman and her husband who look after the girls sometimes when we are at work. They are both farmers. The springer spaniels in one photo are their dogs – also girls. We’re not quite sure who the rather severe looking lab is in the background (another girl). Anyway, apparently it took a bit of time to pose them but no photoshop was used. Amazing.

Anyway, Hatty and Hildy love it in this part of England, as do we. Lots of wonderful walks over moors and in rivers. They haven’t quite worked out salt water and waves, though. Not so many rabbits or pheasants for them, but they can’t have everything, whatever they say.

Have a great holiday season and thanks again for finding our girls for us.

Best wishes,
Stephen

The Good Life According to Cordell
Finally! My foster mom decided to keep me....she sure waited long enough. When she went to the kennel, Lorrie told her not to go and look at dogs if she didn't want to foster. My "new" mom said that she was only looking at dogs and was taking a break from fostering...yeah right! Well, when she saw that my front paw was hurt, she decided to take me home to foster. I think it's because she couldn't resist my big brown eyes. When I went to get my leg amputated and she picked me up, she cried. I don't really know why she was crying but I just knew that I had her wrapped around my paw!
I have 1 brother, Riley and 2 sisters, Hailey and Abby. Riley is my favorite, he's the dog on the left. He's not a GRRAND dog but I love him just the same. Riley was a little overweight when I came into the house but I helped him loose 10 pounds. I'm a VERY active boy! I love to snuggle in bed with mom and run at the dog park. Not too long ago, I was trying to chase a squirrel at the dog park. Diane wouldn't let me get him-she told me "NO" while trying to chase me down and was yelling at the squirrel to run faster so I couldn't catch him. I super fast with 3 legs and all. (my mom says that I would be dangerous with 4 legs)

I want to THANK GRRAND for rescuing me and with my amputation. I'm in my forever home and life is great!
Love, Cordell

Christmas with Roxy
Hi - My name is Roxy and I am posing with my "sister", Elizabeth. I wanted to send a Christmas picture because I had fun in my new home at Christmas. I had my own stocking and Santa brought presents to me, and I got to play with my "brothers", "sisters-in-law", two year old "niece", my mom and dad, and all kinds of cousins, grandparents and friends! It was fun and noisy! My new family loves me and they think I am just the best dog. When I eat my all my dog food supper, I get a "Feeder's Supply" cookie, and they are yummy. Mom likes the heart ones the best because she says the hearts say "I love you". I love playing in the snow, too, and everyone laughs when I come in with snow on my face. They say I look beautiful! Also, at night, I get to bark at the deer that hang out over here. I bark and bark, and the deer just look at me as if they know that I am inside a fence. Are deer that smart? Well, my new family says that I am wonderful, and I have lived here for six months now. I know this is my forever home because my mom and dad say they will love me "forever". They think that GRRAND is really grand and they always say thanks for allowing me into their family.
Love, Roxy Tab-Will-Lizzie Bell!

Snow Dogs!
Good snowy morning from Greene County Ohio. Rusty and Hansen here just letting you know that we are both doing well and just love our forever home. This snowy/cold weather has put a few extra pounds on us both, but mom says we’ll get it off when warm weather is here and we can take our walks.
Time goes by fast when you are safe, warm and loved. I, Rusty, have been with mom for 3 ½ years now and I, Hansen, have been with her for about two years. We are as happy as two frogs in a lily pond.
We love this snow. Mom has attached a photo of us in the front yard and one of me, Rusty, with snow up to my belly… just sniffing around (don’t worry Mom was very close by so there was no chance that we would get so caught up in our sniffing that we would wonder away… hey, we are way smarter than that).
We want to take this opportunity (again) to thank GRRAND from the bottom of our hearts for taking us in and helping us find our forever home.
Hey, you all… don’t forget to check out the senior guys and gals.
Good bye for now.
Rusty and Hansen

To Fern with Love
My name is Fern. I began my life with GRRAND with nine puppies in tow and a world of fear in my heart. My babies were just 3 and 1/2 weeks old when we were saved by GRRAND. This strange lady and her little girl picked us up from another family, and I was frightened. Loud noises and unexpected movements frighten me badly. Men frighten me the worst, and when I got to my foster home, there was a man there. I ran and hid behind the chair in the place the lady had put me and my puppies. I curled up into myself trying so hard to hide. This frightening man got down on the floor, leaned his back against the chair and began to talk to me - not loud, not angry, just low and soothing. We stayed like that until I needed to feed my babies. He moved away giving me plenty of space telling me what a good girl I was and what a good mother I was.

Over the days following, he never pushed me to be friendly. I learned to take my food from him and my biscuits. I got brave one day and let him near me. He touched me in a way I can't remember being touched for a long time. His touch was as gentle as his voice. He took me for walks, just the two of us.

There were two other dogs there. At first I wouldn't let them near me or my babies. I snapped and snarled at them. The lady began letting me out of our area of the basement, and one day I followed her upstairs and, oops! there were those dogs! I hid under the end table, but I watched how those dogs trusted her and loved her, and she never, ever hurt them and always spoke to them as if they were important to her - the way she'd been speaking to me all along. I started to trust them all - dogs and humans.

I heard the lady and man talking about me one day. The man didn't want me to leave. He was afraid I would lose my halting trust if I left them, and he said he loved me. The lady smiled and told him she never thought she'd see the day when he fell in love with a dog again. She told him I could stay if I showed her I was willing to belong with the other two dogs.

The big girl dog liked my puppies, so I let her start playing with them. She became their Auntie, and my puppies loved her. She'd try to play with me, too, but I didn't know how to play. The boy dog my size doesn't have all of his legs and would nudge me with his nose trying to get me to play. They would bring me toys, but I didn't know how to play with them either.

I don't know how it happened, but one day I played with the big girl dog and the boy dog who was my size. I began to go up to the man on my own for attention. I began to love the little girl who always crooned to me. I began to seek out the lady and would sleep at her feet. One day the man patted his legs while he sat in his chair. He had done this with the big girl and boy my size, and they would jump in his lap, but I didn't jump into his lap that time. One day, though, I did it without thinking. I was there in his lap, now what was I supposed to do?! I did what my sister Clover and brother Charger do. I laid down on his lap, heaved a sigh while he stroked me and went to sleep.

My babies are gone from me now to their forever families, and I can't have anymore, but I have my own forever family who play with me and love me. I am part of a family who have helped me get beyond a lot of my fear. I still go crazy over loud noises and sudden movements. I am still frightened by strange people. Maybe I will always be this way, but at night, I can climb in my Dad's lap and snuggle down. During the day, I can sleep at my Mom's feet or next to her as she naps or play with my Clover and Charger. I can listen to the love in my human sister's voice when she speaks to me and feel the love in her hands as she pets me.

Thank you, GRRAND - for my life, the lives of my little ones and for my forever family. I am going to be okay. ....Fern

One very happy family
We want to share some photos of Penny (formerly known as Whisper with GRRAND) and Murphy (formerly known as Trevor with the Rescue Farm).

They really, really like each and we couldn’t be happier with them. We are one very happy family.

Sheri and Tom

Our Fur Baby!
We wanted to give the update on Moby (formerly know as Jenni). Moby is doing wonderfully and we love her so much. She is the sweetest dog and has the softest fur! Moby is wonderful with our nieces and nephews and loves playing with other dogs. She is pretty popular at her daycare among the staff and dogs. She loves exercise and keeps us motivated to go out and walk even when it is cold. She is wearing her coat in this picture that her Mommy makes her wear when it is below 30 degrees. She tolerates it but can’t wait for the Spring! We are so grateful to GRRAND for helping us find our fur baby!
The Minors

Settling In with Toby
We wanted to give an update on Toby (aka Jazz) who came to be a part of our family over Mother’s Day weekend in 2009. Toby’s sweet, gentle nature stole our hearts, and he came to live with us, his Golden sister, Harley, and 2 cats. It took Toby quite a while to settle down and be comfortable with our family. He loved playing with Harley, but was skittish around us for a few months, and we could see that he had been abused in his former home. With time, Toby relaxed into belly rubs and long walks in the neighborhood. With fearless Harley by his side, he figured out that he didn’t have to be on his guard all the time. Toby is our first GRRAND Golden, and we are so pleased that he’s part of our family!

In the picture, Toby is on the right, and Harley is on the left.

Timothy and Kerry

Fred an Excellent Trainer
Fred means the world to me, and I believe that Fred is very happy too...Fred is now up to 75 lbs and I'm down 10lbs , must be all the walking we do.
Thank you all very much for the job you do and for letting me have Fred.

Have a super day,
Gary

At Home and Grateful
Hi, it's me GiGi (aka Ginger, aka Sassy). This is me on my first walk with my new family and brother Ferris, I'm the pretty one on the right. I don't think my new Mom and Dad really believed my foster mom Shannon when she said that I would jump in water and mud puddles at a moments notice. Boy were they surprised. Now I've even taught my new brother how much fun swimming is, he was always scared of the water the big baby. Mom was so impressed (she'd been trying to get Ferris to swim for years) that she took us swimming at least once a week this fall. Now that the cold weather is here we don't go so much but I know when spring comes the rivers and ponds will be calling my name. Well got to go, Mom and Dad got me a new squeky toy that needs some attention. Just wanted to say thank you Grrand for finding me a great home and especially thank you Shannon for taking care of me while I was waiting for my forever home.

Whadda Face!
Wanted to share a couple of new photos for those thinking about adopting a GRRAND dog (I grabbed my cell phone camera to catch these!). I love seeing this sweet face appear on the side of the bed in the morning, waiting for me to get up! Even better, sometimes my day starts with both laughter and gratitude as I wake up to the sight of a golden head asleep on my shoulder!
Both of my GRRAND dogs were adopted as adults (at around 4 and 16 years); both had been badly treated in the past. With love, they have blossomed.
Thank you, GRRAND, for making all of our lives so much happier.
Nancy, Daisy, and Hannah

Gunner - Happy Boy!
I just wanted to let you know that Gunner is doing great!! He is becoming a happy boy!! It is so great to see him smile as much as he has been. I am still working with the trainer with him. He is very smart and a fast learner which makes training him very fun.

Gunner has adjusted to Sophie very well, better in fact than our Annie adjusted to Tucker when we brought him home as a puppy. I am hopeful that they will become best buddies. We have been getting out and about a lot in an effort to socialize them and they are doing great. It is so nice to take Gunner out in public, something I didn't do too much with Annie and Tucker because they weren't as well behaved as he is. People think he is so beautiful and I even had a neighbor kid tell me that I had better keep a close eye on him as they might take him for themselves!! They lost their 13 year old golden to cancer last year and I recommended GRRAND to them.

Take care.
Kathy

Best Decision We Ever Made
These are our 3 kids from GRRAND. We got Jack (bottom right) over three years ago along with his mom Jill who we lost last year. We added Asher (left) to the crowd two years ago so Jack would have a playmate. Boy did that pay off! Those two play so hard together both of their heads are covered it slobber, their hair is sticking straight up and they are panting from exhaustion. The down side is they like to do it in the family room and show off in front of mom and dad rather than outside in the yard - go figure! In this photo, Asher had just taken a dip in the pool since he is our swimmer of the bunch. It is quite the challenge to keep him out during the summer and he loves to swim laps and retrieve his favorite empty 2 liter bottle. Lucy (in the back) is our newest addition and has settled in nicely and has even started to try and play with "the boys" but quickly tires of their rowdy behavior and retreats to get human attention. We certainly have a full household of goldens but getting them has been the best decision we ever made - the unconditional love just cannot be beat!

Brad, Lori and Carley
Loveland, Ohio

Norman is Having a Blast
We wanted to fill everyone in on how Norman (he’s the one winking on the left), formerly known as Blazer, is doing. We met him on May 3, 2009 and immediately knew he was the dog for us. Everyone who meets him says that he is the perfect dog and we agree. He and his new brother Sherman have an absolute blast running and playing in the backyard and at the dog park where they are able to swim until their heart’s content. However, they sometimes get into mischief. One day we found Norman standing on the garbage can foot pedal while Sherman was trying to find some tasty treats for them to enjoy. Norman is the sweetest, most well behaved guy and we could not ask for a better brother for Sherman and addition to our home. Thank you GRRAND for pairing us with the perfect dog!!

Tanya and Rob
Cincinnati, OH

In High Clover
My name is Wild Clover, and I'm a GRRAND rescue dog. I have a forever family! I have a little girl who laughs out loud, a mom and dad, a GRRAND Golden brother named Charger and a rabbit brother named Rasper. I'm the same age as my brother, Charger.

I'm much taller than Charger, and I play rough with him. I knock him over a lot but that's 'cause he's got three legs, and I'm a big girl and a tomboy, and he needs to know that I think he can handle anything. I forget and use my teeth when I'm playing, but I never make him cry. Mom always puts this tone in her voice, though, when she catches me doing that, and says, "Teeth?!" like she's amazed at what I did. Geeze! I like to chonk on their arms just a little bit - I like Charger's ears and collar, too. What's wrong with that?

Mom and Dad leave the back door open so Charger and I can go out and come in whenever we want. They didn't know that I would like to play games with them, too. I snitch underwear and carry them into the back yard, sometimes it's a towel or a potholder (I'm sorry I chewed that pair of the little girl's underwear. I'm sorry about Mom's mocassin, too. Really I am). I take indoor toys outdoors, and snitch Charger's toys even though I have the same thing. He just takes them right back. It's a game just for us to play.

I snitch because I want to see if they will still love me no matter what mischief I get into. My other family didn't want me anymore and took me to a shelter, so I am scared, but this Mom and Dad don't get upset with me for snitching - they laugh! I've got to watch the chewing, though. Mom doesn't laugh about that. She talks real stern and puts the wrong thing I did right in front of me until I hang my head.

One day, Mom, Dad and the little girl who laughs out loud went away for what seemed like forever, but they didn't take me or Charger or Rasper, my rabbit brother. It was the first time they had left me alone with Charger since I came home with them.

When they got home, Mom's eyes got wet because I I didn't tear anything up, hide the things I had snitched, get on the counters or chew one of Charger's ears off. I heard her tell Dad that she had been really worried. Dad told her it's because Charger was telling me to do only good things while they were gone. I sure got bored, and I didn't like Charger telling me what I couldn't do, but I was a good girl, and they made such a fuss over both of us when they all came home!

I've got some complaints, though. So far Mom won't let me play with Rasper Rabbit, and we don't get to sleep the whole night on the bed with them 'cause Charger and I grow too much at night, whatever that means. Mom wants to groom me all the time, too, when all I want to do is play with my brother. (He is terrific!) I think I look good, but Mom says that my matts have got to go!

Charger and I got into some trouble when we took Mom sailing one day. She walks both of us at the same time, and this strange dog ran out from under a truck at us. We thought it was going to hurt Mom, so we went after that dog. We forgot she was attached, and we took her right off her feet into the air. She told us she won't walk Charger and me together anymore. Now we have to wait until the little girl who laughs out loud gets up or until Dad gets home. It's awful hard to wait.

So that's my story. I believe I am loved, and now I wag my tail a lot, chonk on their arms when I'm loving on them and play with my Charger whenever I want. Life is good. ....Clover

Rusty was meant to be...
Just a update on how my adopted parents came into my life. My mom and dad are great. I have a lot of love and attention that they give me! I'm so happy I know that this was meant to be.

Although I have been diagnosed with Heartworms my mom and dad said that was just fine they wanted to take care of me, and I'm off to a recovery of being Heartworm free. Mom has to bring me for one more treatment and the vet says I'm doing just fine and that it will be ok. I can't wait till this is over with..

I love to be outside and would love to walk at the park every day but mom and dad said I have to listen to the vet so I don't get to excited. My mom and dad take me for walks so I can go to the bathroom across the street from my new home. It's a large green area with a forest behind it.

My mom says I'm such a good boy every day. My mom and dad tell me that they use to have other Golden's. The first one they had was named Rusty and the other named Shadow. They did not want to change my name so Rusty it is. Even though they are in doggy heaven I have been told that I have the same character as the both of them. They also said that I was a gift from God. Mommy and daddy were very upset when they were gone and 7 years later they wanted to rescue a Golden and I was chosen. I'm very lucky I love them so much.

I was adopted on June 24th 2009. I'm sure that they will keep you updated with pictures and posts on the GRRAND website so everyone can see.
Thank you GRRAND for finding the best parents for me. For that I'm truly blessed.
Rusty

Hi Everyone!
Rusty (I’m on the left in the photo) and (I’m the little guy on the right in the photo) Hansen here. Just wanted to update you all on life in our forever home.

I, Rusty, was adopted July 2006 (Which Just Happens To Be My Third Year Anniversary With Mom) and me, Hansen, was adopted October 2008. We got it made!

Our mom thinks we are the best thing since “sliced bread” whatever that means. We think that means we are awesome GOLDENS.

We (mom too) are so grateful to GRRAND for rescuing us and finding our forever home. If it wasn’t for GRRAND who knows what would have happened to us.
We hear mom singing our praises to people she meets and she always mentions GRRAND and what a wonderful organization it is.

We also have a GRRAND “nephew” (his mom is our mom’s daughter which would be our sister) Finn who we visit and play with…he is VERY happy in his forever home too. We are probably the three most spoiled Goldens around.

If mom had a larger home and larger yard, we think we’d have a few more GRRAND brothers or sisters. But, it is really just big enough for us two. City living and all.
We each have a comfy doggie pillow in mom’s bedroom and we always sleep in there…you know, to guard her from any thing that might go bump in the night.
Sometimes mom refers to us as her second skin. We think she means we are with her wherever she may be in the house. Hey, we like her…what can we say.

Well, goodbye for now…as Mom has said in the past. If you can open your home and heart to a golden, please don’t over look us older guys and gals. And please check out GRRAND’s website, you’ll be so glad you did.

Rusty and Hansen

Wonderful Little Sunny!
Sunny's previous owners left her and her friend Hansen behind when they moved away. As mentioned in Hansen's update, Sunny and Hansen were left with no food, water, or shelter for 4 to 5 days until a good neighbor contacted GRRAND. Thanks to that neighbor, thanks to Sunny's awesome foster mom, Shannon, and thanks to GRRAND for bringing our Sunny to us!

We have had Sunny since December 2008 and we have loved every minute with her. She is a golden mix, but she has a pure golden heart. Sunny is super well behaved, loves car rides, loves to run in her big back yard and she loves to play with my parent's golden, Lily. Sunny particularly LOVES to cuddle. I have never met such a loving, sweet dog. She loves to sit on your lap and give you gentle, little kisses. Evening and morning cuddle sessions are a must.

We recently brought Sunny on our family vacation to the Outer Banks, NC. Sunny was fantastic on the long car ride and she loved the beach. She is the one in the beach chair, and Lily is below her. Yes, she got into that beach chair herself! She loves sitting in chairs and she sits like a person! Between her proud parents, our friends and families, and all of the neighborhood kids, Sunny is receiving a lot of love and attention. As Sunny's GRRAND foster mom put it, Sunny fits her name. She is the sunshine in our lives, and we are so glad she chose us as her parents!

Thank you so much for all that you do!
Mike, Marisa, and Sunny

New Snuggle Bug
We adopted Lila February 26th and she is such a great addition to our little family. When she first came home, she and Forest (our Great Dane who is just 2 months older than Lila) could not get enough playing in. We actually started to miss our sweet Forest because all he wanted to do was play with Lila. As the days turned into weeks and so on, Forest and Lila settled in together and now sleep together, play together, walk on a leash together, run together, and anything else you can imagine. They are such a cute pair and never like to be apart. We take them both hiking every week at Bernheim Forest and Lila is always the leader of the pack. Not only has Lila settled into a great friendship with Forest, she is my little princess. She prances around the house holding my belongings in her mouth. I don't mind because she never chews them, just carries them around. In fact, I think it's absolutely adorable. She used to be funny about snuggling with us the way we snuggle with Forest (we spoon :). Now she climbs right in the nook of my arm and loves to be close. We treat our dogs like our babies and are very affectionate with them. Lila just eats up all the attention. We also have lots of friends with dogs and it's well known that their dogs are welcome at our house, so Lila gets to play with lots of other dogs. When we take Forest and Lila to Dog Hill at Cherokee Park, which we do almost every day, Lila can be a little skittish with all the attention from other dogs and while Forest can be off leash, Lila has to stay near us on leash, so it's really important to us to give her the oppertunity to play with dogs in her comfort zone at home or in the backyard. She has turned out to be exactly what we wanted, a companion for Forest as well as another companion for us, and a little snuggle bug. She LOVES nothing more than to pull every single toy out from the toy basket and scatter them, a trait her foster mom had told us about. We also heard that Lila was very rambunctious and wild at her foster homes, a trait that she never brought with her. We think she just needed a young friend to play with. As lazy as our Great Dane is, Lila is actually more subdued than he is. We truly feel that this was meant to be and Lila is the perfect fit for us. Thanks to GRRAND for caring for such fantastic and loving dogs. We are truly enriched by Lila's entrance into our lives.
Sincerely,
Sam

Hello to all my GRRAND friends!
I wore myself out “swimming” this afternoon and wanted to drop you a quick note to say hi! It’s been almost a year since I adopted my family and my life has sure changed a lot! Sometimes I try to remember what life was like before I came to live with my forever family…all I can remember is that I didn’t have any toys or rawhide chews (and not even much food), car rides scared me because I never went anywhere fun and my name was Maurice. Now check me out! First thing my mom & dad did was give me a new name ‘cuz I wouldn’t answer to Maurice…what can I say, it just wasn’t “me!” I’ve gained about 20 pounds because I was so skinny before, I have all kinds of toys (even my own pool to play in when it gets hot outside) and I LOVE car rides because you always go somewhere real fun! In exchange for all the stuff that they do for me, I’m a real good boy for them…they tell me that I listen really well and am really smart.

If you’re looking at the GRRAND website because you’re thinking about adopting one of my friends, I say do it! My mom & dad tell me all the time that they got really lucky when GRRAND found me for them (I agree) and they can’t imagine their life without me.

Thanks for everything!
Cody (and Bill & Lynn)

Cassie's Perfect Fit
Hello,
We just wanted to let you guys know how Cassie (formerly Katie) is doing.
She has been with us for almost 2 months now and has fit in great. Her and her brother Milo (our german shepherd mix) play all day and cuddle all night.
We also have two cats who have accepted that she is here to stay. Sam (our orange tabby) was not to fond of the idea that Cassie was living here but they have
since developed a fondness for each other. I have attached a picture of them sleeping on my lap - we are pretty sure they would have denied this ever happened if we did not get a picture of it! If you could share this with Cassie's foster mom, that would be great, she would get a kick out them cuddling since the first meeting did not go so well.
Our biggest concern with adding a new family member was how they would get along with our 18 month old daughter and Cassie is great with her. One of veryones favorite pass times is to looking out the window at the neighbors and squirrels. We appreciate Grrand's help in placing us with a perfect fit for our family and will keep you updated on how Cassie is doing.

Thanks,
Katie

Blue, in Name Only
My wife and I wanted to give GRRAND a quick update on Blue. We starting fostering Blue a little more than 2 months ago while he was recovering from heartworm and mange, and we are very happy to report that he has made a full recovery! We fell in love with his hilarious personality and sweet nature and have decided to adopt him. It will be another month before he can play with us and run like he use to, but that time will pass quickly. He spends most of his time playing with his toys and being funny (we've never heard a dog regularly burp like he does), and is very happy.
Thanks,
Julie and Jason

On Cloud 9 with Hansen
Hansen here. Just dropping in to give an update on my wonderful forever home. I’m the guy who was left behind when his owners moved away. Lucky for me that a kind neighbor told GRRAND about me and now I’m on cloud 9.

I’ve been here since October 2008 and I must admit I sure do love it. I’m sharing my mom’s house with her and my Grrand brother Rusty who is quite the gentleman. Rusty and I have all the love a golden guy could ask for and the food and treats “aren’t half bad either”. Mom thinks Rusty and I are the best boys around. Actually, we are…..don’t cause any trouble and are calm most of the time. When a visitor comes we greet them at the door and won’t let them come in the house until they give us several loving pats on our heads.

Mom also has a grandson who is 6. He and I are such pals. I’ve attached a photo of the two of us….when he is visiting I’m wherever he is and when he spends the night I always lay beside his bed guarding him from “whatever”.

Mom’s daughter also has a GRRAND golden boy who is such a sweet older gent. What can I say “GRRAND goldens are awesome”.

Goodbye for now. If you are reading this and are considering opening your home and heart to a GRRAND golden, please don’t over look us “older guys and gals” MOM IS SURE GLAD SHE DIDN’T.

Hansen

Fast Running Charger (on left)
I know I didn't stay long among you, but I am home now forever, and my Mom says she's never giving me back. No one cares that I am missing a leg. She and Sammi take me on walks to build up the muscles in my remaining front leg, and they massage where my leg used to be. Dad plays with me in the back yard throwing the bumper so I can learn to retrieve, and lets me climb on his lap while we watch TV. He says I am like greased lightning when I run!

I have a mini-lop rabbit brother named Rasper. I chase him and he nibbles on my tail. Mom says I can't eat him.

I usually sleep beside Sammi's bed at night where she made me a bed, but when Mom naps, she lifts me up on her bed to snooze along. I am so content, I give a deep sigh when I lay next to her.

Thank you for helping me and holding me until my forever family came for me, GRRAND. I don't know what would have happened to me if it weren't for all of you and your care. ....Charger

Scoobie's Doggone Good Time!
Scoobie is doing great and fitting in quite well! They rode really well in the jeep together. They played until after midnight, until I made them go to bed. We have two dog beds but they slept next to each other on the floor. I woke up this morning to a big kiss on the face from Scoobie. They played outside for a while this morning before we went off to work. Scoobie did get upset when we left and he partially tore up his crate pad, but who could blame him. I was able to come home and work since about 10am… So they have been playing, napping, playing and playing!

Things are going great and I thought you all would enjoy some pictures to prove it!

Thanks so much to each of you who has helped us find the dog that was just right. He will be greatly enjoyed by our entire family! Roxa told me to let you all internet dating for dogs is awesome!!! She fell in love at first sight when she saw his picture on Grrand’s website!

Thanks & we will keep in touch!

Marie, Shaun, Roxa, & Scoobie

Another Happy Match!
Hello,

My husband and I adopted "Tibby" (now known as Shelby) from her adoptive home in Lexington last Saturday. After only one week, we cannot imagine not having her in our home. She is so full of love and energy, which is just what we needed after losing our 13 year old Cocker Spaniel during the holidays.

Shelby is only 7 months old, but she is so good and well-behaved. We are so happy we went through GRRAND...my husband and I feel they did a great job matching us up with the perfect companion!

Thanks for everything...
Kara

Way to Go Beanie Boy!
We just wanted to give you some news on Beanie (formerly known as Henry). Beanie has settled into our family and home very well. He is a VERY GOOD dog. Both the kids love him and Beanie loves being around them. He is extremely smart and learns something new every day. He follows commands and is fully potty-trained. He continues to still grow. We attached some pictures of him. We took him to be groomed recently and he looks extremely handsome. Please, please, please.....send the pictures onto Henry's foster Mom. She did a wonderful job and we appreciate everything GRRAND has done to bring Beanie into our lives.

Thank you,
Jennifer, Sagar, Ashton, Aiden and Beanie

Linus' Rules to Live By
Dear Grrand:
I thought I'd let you know what a tremendous addition Linus (formerly Kris) is to my household. After coming into Grrand as a mess, with separation anxiety of the destructive variety, he was fostered by a woman who should get a medal for her patience and persistence with him. He arrived at my home free of his damaging tendencies, but still medicated with doggie downers. After six weeks of settling in and bonding with my 13 year old Grrand dog, Tiger, Linus was clean and sober and has been since. He has the run of the house, but has imposed some very strict rules which I am required to live by. You do not "feed the dog," you serve him in the manner he requires, which includes a ceremony of setting his bowl in front of him. Walks are mandatory, but only if you turn right out of the driveway - left is simply not proper and he will not go that way. Dog toys are to be kept in a pile in the den or on his bed upstairs - nowhere else is acceptable, and if going up or down stairs, a toy MUST be in the mouth at all times. Both dogs go to work with me occasionally, and Linus especially is happy to sleep in my office all day, as long as anyone who comes in acknowledges his presence with a head rub. He reminds me constantly that all dogs are good, but Grrand dogs are the best!

Susan

Growing Family
I just wanted to write and let you know how Churchill - now Butler, was doing. I am so thankful that I was able to find such a wonderful, loving and beautiful “child” to become a part of my family. I had another dog – Scarlett and I was hesitant to add to the family, but Butler was able to instantaneously bond with both myself and with her. They are now thick as thieves! Where one goes, so does the other. They love to play and chase each other in my back yard! I am attaching the enclosed picture so you can see how they “share”!!!

Butler is such a loveable dog, but I wish he would realize that at 60lbs, he’s not a lap dog! But that doesn’t stop him from giving me tons of kisses! Thank you for giving me an opportunity to expand my family and open my heart. He really is now one of my “children”.

Sincerely,
Kimberly, Scarlett & Butler

Happy New Year
Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year!
Marianne, Brian, Shanahan & Sammy

Barkley Ever After
It’s me Barkley, formally known as Andy!!! I am having my new friend Logan write a letter to you at Grrand. I wanted to tell you about my new home. I came to Grrand with my 2 brothers and a sister (Maurice, Barry, and Robin). We were not exactly Goldens, but you took us in anyway.
I now have a great family! There is my mom and dad, Logan who is nine and Mallory who is 1. There is also my crazy cat sister, Shelby, who loves to rub on me.
I am going to Manners Class, play ball in the backyard, and I have my own blanket and toys!
Thanks for all of the work you do to give dogs like me a second chance at a great life!
Barkley
PS- Can't wait to see everyone at the Have a Heart Party!

Henry and Molly!
Dear Grrand,
Janet & I want to bring you up to date on our GRRAND family. In photo, Henry is on the left and Molly in the right. In July 07, we relocated (retired) to Augusta, GA. In the photo, they are seen in front on their new home. We have a corner lot in a great neighborhood that has many, many dogs. All day long owners are walking their dogs past the house. Molly and Henry speak to each and everyone of them. We spend many leisure hours on the screened in porch enjoying these interactions. We are extremely grateful to GRRAND for bringing Molly & Henry into our lives.

Bill & Janet Cravens

Hi, from Copper!
Hi GRRAND:

This is Copper. I used to be known as Sunny in my foster home. I am
writing to let you know how I am doing well with my new family and thank
you again for all the great work you do.

This place is great! I have a nice boy and girl who love me to pieces
and play whenever I want to. Their mom and dad know lots about dogs,
take very good care of me, and love me lots too. There is also a
grumpy old cat living here who hasn't decided what to think of me—
she's just stubborn.

I get to go on walks, ride in the car, play in my fenced yard, and go
on vacation! There are dog neighbors all all around, lots of friends
in the neighborhood who love to visit me, and something interesting
happening every day. I even get to go to dog school and learn how to
sit and heel and stuff.

Thanks again, GRRAND! Woof!

Copper

Holiday Wishes From Karma
Hi everyone. My name is Karma and I just had a great Christmas and New Year with my new mom and sister, Suga. I’m on the left in the picture. I was only at GRRAND for a short time. Some people found me and they called GRRAND. I was pretty skinny and the doctor said I needed to gain weight. Right after I had surgery I went to live with my foster family. I didn’t feel good and I didn’t play very much. But once I started to get better and eat more I had more energy to play with Suga. She shared all her toys with me and was really fun! When GRRAND called my foster mom and told her some people wanted to adopt me, she said “No way, Karma is staying with us!” That was 9 months ago and I am so happy I found my forever home. Now I go running with mom and Suga and I’m a really good dancer. Every time mom puts on a CD I jump up and boogie around. I know how to sit, stay, shake and rollover. I haven’t had any accidents. The only thing I ever get in trouble for is eating off the counter and out of the garbage cans, but that’s only because for awhile I didn’t know when I was going to get fed again. Now I’m healthy and I shouldn’t worry because I get treats when I’m good. My New Years resolution is to stop eating food off the counter. I can’t wait for summer so I can go swimming again. Last summer Suga showed me how to swim all around the pool, and I know I’m going to be even better this year. I hope all the other GRRAND dogs have a great 2009!

Tremendous Trio
Update on Mona and Sophie (Kay on the website). After our 9-year old golden died unexpectedly, we decided it was too quiet around the house and our 5 year old golden needed a pal. We saw Mona, the little white golden-mix and knew we wanted her. Jane suggested we meet a few other dogs as well. One of those was Kay (now Sophie) and we thought oh-my-gosh-that-dog-looks-like-the-hyena-that-says “Mufasa, Mufasa” in the Lion King movie. My 14 year old really wanted to meet this dog and we made the meeting and in… 10 seconds, maybe 2, we were in love!

Mona is the youngest and smallest but, being part shepherd she enjoys “herding” the two bigger dogs. She also thinks she is a princess and has a little attitude, because she is really soft and can turn on the adorable charm when she feels like it, she gets away with everything (except for chewing a hole in the wall and woodwork – she was scolded for that).

Sophie… we’ve never seen a dog with the kind of full-throttle excitement that she has. She will chase balls and the other dogs for hours, she likes to go down the playground slide and in her spare time she tears up pillows, shoes, socks (but she hasn’t chewed up anything in at least a month – yay!) She pushes toys under the furniture and tries to dig or “dive” to get them out. She has other “creative” games that only she knows the rules to, but she is wonderfully crazy!

It is not quiet at the Edgett house anymore.

Thanks Grrand!
Paul, Danna, McKenna, Ella, Sara, Star, Sophie and Mona

Maggie Celebrates the Season
Hi. I'm sending an attached picture of Maggie for the Grrand web site. She looks so adorable and we want to show her off!
Elisa Devera and Richard

SEASON’S GREETINGS
LUCY AND OSCAR SEND SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM BETTYE

Five Minute Foster Home
Just wanted to update you on Hershel. We fostered him for about five minutes before we realized he wasn’t going anywhere! He fit in immediately with everyone (except for our two cats, Barney and Millie). He is so gentle with the kids and would love to play with the cats if only they would let him. He lives for his walks (he insists on 3 a day) and his playdates in our back yard with the Golden across the street. He sleeps every night in bed with our 8yo daughter, and the rest of the time breaking in our new couch. Everyone he meets is impressed with his gentle, friendly personality. We can’t imagine life without him!

Greg, Jen, Lizzie and Emma

Add a Pair
I thought you might get a kick out of these pictures of Cole, Callie and Garth. We now call them Zack, Jessie and Jackson. Jessie and Zack (the
breeding pair) have come a long way in the past 4 weeks. They have learned to play and trust us. Zack has quit having to hug Buzz all the
time, but he does need to be in the room with one of us. They are upstairs with the family all day and are great dogs. Thanks for
introducing us to the "wild pair". By the way, Jackson (Garth) looks like a draft horse next to these two. Hopefully all three can come to
the Grrand 2008 adoptee party. We will have to see with Jessie she gets car sick sometimes.

Susan & Buzz

Iris and Allie
Allie and I want to wish all of you a happy holiday season and a peaceful and healthy 2009!

Allie also asked me to let you know that, at 14 1/2, she still looks as good as she did in this picture which was taken a couple of years ago :)

Happy New Year!

Iris and Allie

The Crouchers send Holiday Hugs!

Happy Birthday to Me!
I am so excited to be a year old! I'm grateful to so many people for this wonderful first year of life. Mom says that a lot of people were very generous with their contributions and their time in making my heart surgery possible, and fostering me while I was recuperating (kisses to you Laurie). I'm happy to report that today I feel terrific! My two sisters, Charlotte and Emily, also adopted from Grrand, are so happy I'm here too. They haven't been chased around the yard this much in years! I still have to take medicine every day, but it's pretty easy and Mom makes it taste good when she puts it in some cheese. I'm a very good boy, and I know that Santa will be good to me this year. I'm even starting school next week! I'm good at the basics, but I'd like to be better at not jumping up to kiss everyone on the lips when they come in the door. My favorite pastimes are stealing shoes and anything off of Mom's desk or the kitchen counter, squeaky toys, stuffed toys, any kind of toy, light housework (I enjoy swiping socks from the dryer) and cuddling, especially cuddling! I'm only 56 pounds and I'm sure that fits into the "lap dog" category!

Thanks so much Grrand for all you have done for me, and all the other dogs that you have rescued and placed in happy homes.

Much love and kisses, Gavin

and Stacey, Walt, Michael, Matthew, Charlotte, and Emily

Holiday treat!
One day a family packed up everything and moved away, but they forgot something and that would be me and my friend Sunny. We patiently waited in the back yard (with no food, water or shelter I might add) for them to realize that we were still at the house, but after 4 or 5 days they hadn’t come. A very nice neighbor took us in and called GRRAND and that is “history”. We were brought to the kennel checked out by the vet and waited for our foster home. Well, I am now in a very cozy warm and happy foster home with my foster mom and foster brother Rusty (also a GRRAND dog).
My foster mom says I’m just about perfect. I am house broken, I know a few “tricks” like sit for a treat and I just might shake your hand. Mom, Rusty and I take walks. My foster brother and I get along great. I’ve met Mom’s grandson who is 6 and we are quite the pals. I’m very laid back, have good manners and I guess just a Golden gem. Oh, by the way my name is Hansen and I am 8 years old and I just ADOPTED my new foster family!

Livin' Large Cody Style!
Hello to all my friends at GRRAND! I wanted to tell you thanks for finding my forever family because I really love them. I've already "taught" them everything they need to know about taking care of me and they were pretty quick learners, let me tell you! In just a few short months, they've learned that I'm the one in charge in this family! They take me for walks almost every time I lean against the front door (we still have a little bit of work to do on that one because I only get 4 or 5 walks a day), they have a new rawhide chew waiting for me every time I finish my old one, I get a new toy at least once a week and am generally the center of attention at all times. In fact, my mom & dad got married not too long ago & all the guests paid more attention to me than to them!

Now if I could just convince them to get rid of that pesky thing they call my brother...I mean, he is a cat after all. Who needs one of those around?

Love,
Cody (oh, and Bill & Lynn too!)

New Tricks for Baron
Almost two years ago, my husband and I decided it was time for a Golden to join our family. We checked out the Grrand Organization and have been thrilled we did. We found Baron. When we met him in Louisville he took to our family immediately and we fell in love with him. Baron has never had an accident in the house, chewed anything he shouldn't, run away, or anything. Well, to be honest he was horrible with other animals. He seemed pretty mean to all other dogs, cats, squirrels, birds or any other animal. Check out the picture of him today! This was taken by a girlfriend when she was dog sitting at her house that has a dog and two cats. We have worked with him at the dog parks and neighborhood dogs. We love Baron and can't imagine our family without him!
Grateful to Grrand,
Judi, Mark, and Brian in Lexington

Winnie has found a place in our Hearts
We adopted Winnie in July 2008 and are so incredibly happy that she found her way into our lives. We are so grateful that GRRAND and her foster family took such good care of her. Winnie is the most perfect dog for us – our son Joshua just loves her. She is very active for her 9 years, and loves to play fetch, take walks, and spend time with us.

Please look past the pictures and the ages when you are out looking for your new family member. Winnie is older that we were originally looking for as we had lost another golden about her same age, but we are so glad we have her now, and know that any time we have with her will have enriched all of our lives. She’s happy and healthy, and our family is now complete (until I can convince them all to foster or adopt another one!)

Mark, Stephanie, Joshua and Winnie

Seniors are the Best!
We adopted Finn (on the right in the photo) September 30, 2008. We originally fostered him, but after a little over a month, we knew that he wasn't going anywhere. He is a perfect match for our family. He and Charlie
(on the left in the photo) get along great. We have had Charlie since he was a puppy, and he is now 6 years old. We have been wanting to open our home to a GRRAND dog for quite some time, but weren't sure how Charlie would do with another dog invading his space. When Charlie and Finn first met, it was like they had known each other forever. They got along great. Finn was a stray, and had a rough life before GRRAND rescued him. After a couple of months of love, good food, and vet care, Finn looks and feels great. He is 10 years old, but has the energy of a dog much younger. We just love him, and are blessed to have him in our family. We can just tell by looking into his golden eyes how thankful he is to have found a good, forever home. He doesn't have to worry about being cold, hungry, or lonely anymore. He can spend his last years on earth being spoiled with his brother Charlie! Please consider adopting a senior dog. They are an easy fit into any family, and all they want is your love and attention, nothing more.
Sincerely,
Bryan, Christina, Charlie and Finn

Wonderful Emma
I’m sharing our Happy Ending because I believe it to be an example of how rewarding a GRRAND adoption can be, even when it takes several dog trainers to help get you there. Our last and final trainer called Emma “a wonderful brat”. At 2 and a half now, much of the “brat” is gone and we’re left mostly with “wonderful”. I always knew in my heart that if I could just get us though that first year or so (chewing eye glasses, remotes, my arms, shoes, body-checking her crate across the den floor, just to name a few challenges) it would be SO worth it. So true!
A heartfelt thank you to GRRAND and to every single person who gives the especially challenging dogs a fair shot at being loved and giving love back, ten fold!

Forever grateful,
Ellen, Emma and Maggie

Cody Makes Friends Easily
We wanted to give everyone an update on Maurice, who came home with us just a few days ago. As you can see from the attached photos he's quickly settling into his new home & is already a much-loved member of our family.

He's already learning his name (which we changed to Cody) and loves to play fetch with stuffed animals, which seem to be his favorite toy. He LOVES to go for walks in the neighborhood & already has what seem to be a hundred friends, both kids and dogs alike.

We'll keep you updated on his progress and hope to show him off at the upcoming GRRAND picnic, but wanted to thank you so much for allowing us to give him a forever home. There is no doubt that he was well worth the wait!

Lynn & Bill

What I've learned from adopting
This morning I was looking at the GRRAND website and saw both male and female goldens waiting for adoption who reminded me so much of my two dogs. I had to write with an update about my dear friends, in the hope that their stories will open hearts to these "special needs" dogs.

My first GRRAND adoption was of 4 year old Daisy (previously "Sunshine"). Like several of the dogs listed on the website now, Daisy had spent her life in a breeder's cage and was terrified of many things. A truly wonderful GRRAND foster family helped her start to grow in confidence. Still, when I adopted her Daisy panicked at autumn leaves falling from the trees and any unexpected sound. I could see that she was afraid of what humans might do, too. Daisy's previous owner had reduced her to skin and bones (the photos that were taken of her at that time are shocking), most of her teeth were broken off at the jawline, and she was clearly afraid of what people might do to her. Most people said she didn't even look like a golden retriever.

LOOK AT HER NOW!! :) (Of the two photos here, Daisy is the dog lying on a quilt.) It took some time for Daisy to begin to heal emotionally, but today she is the most loving and gentle dog I have ever known. She has become much more confident, and she has the deepest trust in me. When I think about her previous life I choke up... if you can be very patient, very kind, and very gentle, and help your dog to feel 100% safe with you, these sweet but hurt goldens will repay you 10000 times over with with their love, loyalty, and devotion. Today when I'm home Daisy is always by my side. I absolutely cherish her, and her happiness makes me happy every day.

My second GRRAND dog is 17 year old Hannah (previously "Shannon"). I brought Hannah home as a very pitiful foster dog-- another bag of bones with little coat, teeth rotting into her jaws, and a horrible mite infestation. Her heart was beating weakly at only 1/3 the normal rate and she was very depressed. I didn't think I needed a second dog, but Hannah needed a foster home (a woman called to tell GRRAND her husband was going to kill Hannah if we didn't take her), and when I went to visit her at the vet's office I couldn't say "no" to her sad face.

One year later, Hannah is a hilariously playful dog, and a beautiful one! With good nutrition and an inexpensive pill twice a day, her health has been restored, and she is making up for all the sad years she endured. Hannah has every bit as much zip and spunk as Daisy, and is usually the instigator of their noisy, frequent wrestling matches. After having lived as an outside dog (her previous owners complained that she would run around in the road during thunderstorms), Hannah is clearly **overjoyed** at being part of a family. She makes me laugh every day, and I treasure her.

Hannah recently had another surprise for me. Even though I had invited her many times, she had never felt sure that hopping in bed with me would be okay. But a few weeks ago, right around the one year anniversary of her adoption, Hannah's funny face appeared on the side of the mattress. I said hello and patted her head, and she stood and looked at me for a little while. Then she slowly, slowly crept up into bed next to me. I can only remember a few times in my life when I've felt that choked up. As I told Hannah what a good girl she is, she sighed deeply and snuggled close. And I thought how blessed I am, and how grateful I am that GRRAND gave Hannah, Daisy, and me a better life.

My first golden was purchased as a puppy from a breeder. After having three rescue dogs over the past 15 years, I've learned that adopted dogs are every bit as loving and devoted as dogs you raise from a pup. In fact, the bond can be even closer, since these dogs are so grateful to us for giving them a family, love, a fully belly, and a safe, warm home. If you can relate to the gentle, kind hearts of golden retrievers, and can commit to giving them a golden home, you can't go wrong in adopting a GRRAND dog.

Nancy

Energy Thy Name is Josie
Our family wants to send an update on our Josie. We lost our beloved yellow lab, Rhiannon, after 14 wonderful years and were looking to add another dog to our family. We are true believers in rescue animals, so GRRAND seemed perfect for us. Josie stole our hearts and she has settled in nicely. Our rescue, Chase, took to her right away. But, our rescue cat, Sophie (in the pic), took about 2 weeks to finally accept her into our home. Now, they get along fine and play like any cat and doggie would. Josie has A LOT of energy and keeps us on our toes. She loves to go for walks, play fetch, get into the pond and annoy Chase from time to time. She sleeps in our room and Chase gets her peace and quiet with my mom at night. But, first thing in the morning she is ready to go and play , play , play.

We love her and are still teaching her some manners. We thank GRRAND and will love Josie for sooo many years to come.

The Migdols

Toast (aka Maxwell)
When he came to us ...

... he had no hair on his tail - the condition is called "happy tail", because as soon as he wagged his tail it would crack open on the end
... he had a bad case of pancreatitis and a thyroid level so low that it was almost undetectable
... he flinched whenever you came near - apparently expecting and waiting to be beaten
... he had a staph infection all over his skin
... he'd never seen toys before
... he'd never eaten ice cream before
... he'd never played ball before

And now that he's been here awhile ...
... We think he's somewhere around 12 years old
... His coat has come back in and it's wonderfully full, fluffy, and gorgeous
... All of the emergent medical conditions have been resolved and only the thyroid condition is still being treated for the longer term
... He plays BALL and dearly loves it! Matter of fact he gets irritated with you if you don't hit one to him out there quickly enough ("Hit me one Poppy ...")
... He has new toys to play with and loves to carry around the big soft dumbbell in his mouth and has no idea why that's so funny
... He loves McDonald's ice cream cones as a special treat
... He loves to swim in his new pool and jumps right in
... He likes nothing better than to stuff his mouth with tennis balls - as many as he can cram in there when no one's looking
... He smiles - he actually smiles a full mouth smile, most often first thing in the morning and is known to flash a big grin at you at any time during the day
... He rolls over for belly rubs when you come near now
... He guards the property with a ferocious bark that will stop you in your tracks, as if to say hey, this is my place and you don't belong here
... He lives up to his name everyday - funny, irreverent, and wonderfully eccentric

We love him dearly and he knows he now has his forever home. We can't thank you enough for letting us have our Toast!

Beach Buddies
This is Louie (the canine formerly known as 'Sunshine') checking in. I can't believe that it's been over a year since you helped me find my forever home! I am so grateful that you rescued me and brought me to this place where I have a sister Golden named Shelby and two other things to play with called cats! My mom says I am a very sweet and loving boy and always have a Golden Smile on my face. She also calls me a canine comedian because I'm very silly!

Recently, I got to go to the ocean for the first time! I love to swim and this was the biggest water that I've ever seen...it was so cool. Anyway, I wanted to send you a picture of me on vacation so you could see how well I'm doing! I'm the beach bum on the right!

Thanks SOOOOoooo much for saving me!
Louie (and Beth & Rick )

Aggie, the 3-legged wonder dog!
Dear GRRAND,

We adopted Aggie (the 3-legged wonder dog) last September and just wanted to give you an update . . . She has made herself quite at home with us and her golden “brother,” Jack. She has lots of energy and loves to run around in her fenced-in yard. She must have some hunter blood in her – she really enjoys watching and chasing squirrels! It saddens us to think that she waited over five months in a foster home until we found her. People must have been afraid that she couldn’t be a “normal dog,” which is exactly what she is and then some!

We love it when people meet Aggie and don’t even mention her missing leg. She is just a terrific golden girl who only wanted a family to love her.

Thanks again for all you do for these beautiful goldens!

Sam & Christina

Senioritis, the Good Kind!
Thought I would send an update on Rusty for Happy Endings since you have gotten in a lot of older dogs, it might be nice for people to see what joys they are.

I've attached a picture of Rusty after playing a game of fetch, which is a daily ritual when I get home from work. Rusty is a ball player!! We adopted Rusty back in February and he has been an absolute blast. You would never know he is 9 years old and will actually be 10 in November. We already had four dogs when we took Rusty to foster, I was just picking him up and then of course I couldn't give him up. Sooooo.... he is our fifth and final dog!!!! Just want to make sure people do not steer away from the older dogs. You never know how much time a dog has left whether they are older or youger. You just enjoy them while you have them. I have to say Rusty has a smile on his face everyday and he definitely puts a smile on our faces too. We are so happy we decided to keep him, he makes our pack complete.

Thanks Grrand for saving these precious dogs and also not forgetting the "seniors".

Kim & JR

Soft and Happy Sophie
Just thought you guys would enjoy seeing how Sophie(aka, Jena)is doing. Her personality has changed so much in the last few months. She’s the most gregarious, outgoing, goofy girl you’ve ever met, and she has become a leaner.

The first few weeks she would shy away from new people when we went on walks. Now she can’t wait to meet everyone, to the point that a gentle leader is part of our walking ensemble now. She’s very good, but she just gets so excited.

Her coat has changed dramatically as well. It’s honestly the softest coat I’ve ever felt on a dog, And if you remember her tail was practically bare. She now has this huge fluffy tail full of wavy blonde, white and red fur.

She and Sadie have really become sisters and love to play and rough house with each other. Unfortunately their favorite time to wrestle is 6:00 am, while on our bed. Argghh.. It’s ok though we enjoy watching them play. They are very careful with each other though, not a single yelp in all these months of playing.

The first picture I’m attaching is the one that’s going to be the October photo for the GRRAND calendar, but I thought I would give you an update while I was thinking about it.

David

The Siamese Twins
We fondly refer to Katie (aka, Princess) and Patrick as the Siamese twins. Katie is a very sociable dog and we get out to the dog park a few times a week and she has a long-established reputation with the park-goeres as a people-person. She makes the rounds and tries to get attention from everyone. We adopted Patrick because we thought that a dog as sociable as Katie would really enjoy the company. Well, that turned out to be a great move. We'll never have fewer than 2 dogs in the future. The 2 have formed a pack. They adore each other. Very different personalities, but no problems getting along.
We love Katie and Patrick. And they return the sentiment every day. As I write, Katie is in the room with me looking out the window (a favorite pastime when she's indoors) and Patrick is lying at my feet. They are both always close by. We spoil them, I'm afraid, but we are being very conscious not to overfeed them. They are invariably the sleekest goldens at the park. Katie's coat is as gorgeous as ever and Patrick has developed a very nice coat on the same diet.

Thanks for all you do for GRRAND. From the number of people at the dog park who recognize Katie and Patrick as GRRAND dogs, it is obvious what a positive impact your organization has had.
Bob and Betty

Education with Maxie
Maxie doing well and has fit right into our family. She and Fergie our other dog are getting along find even if there is a small size difference. My grandson who is just over three years old is really enjoying Maxie. He likes to sit on the floor reading to Maxie. He calls her his and PaPaw's dog.
Fergie he says belongs to his sister Mallory and Grams. Maxie wants to be where ever myself or Twynette are in the house. She also like going out in the yard. She loves taking walks. She has lost a few pounds but still needs to shed a few more.

Ashley

Big Fun = Big Nap
Nine years and Precious is still our Joy!!!! She loves walks in the park ---here is a recent photo of her taken after our adventure and walk in Cherokee Park. This park is one of her favorite places --lots to see -- and as always she is so pooped upon returning home that she flops in her bed and has a much needed rest , dreaming about the squirrels, dogs and people she saw on her adventure.
I am hoping you will post her picture in your photo gallery on this website.
Heather

Beware, The Panda Eaters!
I couldn’t resist sending the Panda Eaters – our dog, Kaydee on the left, our foster dogs -Sarah in the middle and Katie on the right.

Thanks,

Karen

Ely's Happy Ending
So now I have found the end of the road. And my new name is Ely (Leeza) because that’s the end of the road in Northern Minnesota and we know that my owner is from there. As you can all see I love my ball and I love to hide it under the couch or chair it’s a I game play. I also play tug of war with Tim and Wendy, but don’t tell them I let them win so I can play longer. I have my bed to sleep on and when Tim goes to work I find a way to keep his side of the bed warm. Everyone thinks I have a pretty face and they all want to play with me. I have found the end of the road, thank you Grrand for finding me Tim and Wendy….they love me.

Lucky Max or Lucky Family?
I just wanted to let everyone know how well Max is doing! He's just a joy to have around! I don't know how I lived without his song and dance every morning when we get up and start the day. He has had three seizures to date (we adopted him in Oct.), two of them were mild but one was pretty intense. He seemed to come out of it pretty quickly and after a trip to the vet, his medication was not changed. He was put on a mild thyroid medication.

In spite of his medical problems, he is just a wonderful dog. In fact we are thinking he may need a brother or sister. He'll have to wait though, four animals are enough for now. I've included a picture of Max with his brothers. Thank you all for your tireless efforts to find homes for these unwanted guys. Some people would say that these dogs are lucky to find homes. I say the people who bring them into their lives are truly the luckiest of all.

The Best!!!
As far as Mitch aka Tony, goes - don't know what else I can tell you - except he's the BEST birthday present I have ever received (or in this case, given to myself). WE LOVE HIM!!!

Carol

Best Buddies
Dear GRRAND
It is hard to believe that four years have gone by since Rex came to live with us. We were only going to foster him but in just a few days we knew he had found his home. Rex should be about fourteen years old but he certainly doesn’t act like it.He and his brother Gus play and wrestle daily, neither one can stand to apart from each other.They are best buddies and in our opinion the best dogs in the world.
Thank you GRRAND for all you do.
Rex's Family.

Buster and Kadee are bonding!
Well here she is.....KADEE (aka Kay).....As you can see Buster and Kadee are bonding! She is bringing all the play out of Buster! She was taylor made to our home. That should be her name...Taylor Made...She's playful, yet quiet. Buster is following her and they are starting to play tug of war. He is actually looking for her when she goes out of sight of him. She is exactly what we needed to fill that empty hole in our hearts and she is perfect for Buster.
She was curious about the horses and jumped back when they came close to the fence. Usually at this time, dogs will bark. Not her - she just looked.

Thanks everyone for making this possible.

Karen and Barry

Inseparable
Just an update on Jackson and Bailey-Ann. They are doing wonderfully!!! They unfortunately BOTH love to sleep in the bed, which makes it fun to say the least!! In the past year or so since Bailey-Ann joined us, they have become best friends and are inseparable. They play all day long and sleep next to each other.

That's about it for now!

Sincerely,
Kris, Dara, Jackson & Bailey-Ann

Touched by a White Face
When I brought Hannah (formerly Shannon) home as a foster dog we were told she was between 15 and 16 years old. She was emaciated and had rotten teeth and a raw hairless neck and chest (we think from being chained?). Her heart was found to be beating faintly at about 1/3 the normal rate. Her eyes were terribly sad, and she seemed very ill. It was initially thought that she was deaf, since she was afraid to make eye contact with people.

Today, Hannah is the most loving, grateful, and happy dog you could imagine. As soon as she realized she was actually allowed to live in our home (versus having been kept outdoors in her past) she seemed almost overwhelmed with pride and began to have a funny spring in her step! She adores being patted and praised. Although she is definitely an elderly lady, she instigates bouts of wrestling and tug of war with her 5 year old GRRAND sister every day. Hannah walks around with a grin on her face, and follows me quietly from room to room when I am home, just wanting to be near me. Clearly I had to adopt her, seeing the joy she felt at knowing she was welcome and had a home with us.

Although Hannah has some health challenges, she appears to have decided that she is going to live life to the fullest! I hope to be able to report someday that she has made it to a happy 20—even if her time with us is short, she will have blessed our lives with laughter and fun. It is also touching to see that she feels peaceful, happy, safe, and part of the family—more than enough reward for the small effort it takes to care for her as part of our family.

If you feel touched by a “white face” on the website, I hope you will consider giving one of these sweet dogs a place to call home.

Nancy

Say have your heard the one about...
We adopted Gracie in July of 2006. She is such a perfect dog – well behaved and loving. After some discussion, my husband and I decided to foster Goldens to help GRRAND and the dogs, of course. Our first foster was Bailey #12. In July 2007 we met a transporter outside of Cincinnati. We found a tall, lanky blonde Golden who was a little nervous about being there with all these strange people. It was love at first sight for Bailey and Gracie. They play all day and are best friends. As so often happens, when adoption became imminent, we decided we couldn’t let him go. Gracie couldn’t do without him either. His coat isn’t bleached, brittle and thin now. He’s a happy, healthy boy along with his sister, Gracie. Thanks GRRAND, for making it possible for us to love these wonderful dogs.

Doesn’t it look like Bailey told a joke and Gracie is laughing her head off?

TGI Friday
I just wanted to say think you for finding me a good home. I had super foster parents and great care until I found my forever home. My new family changed my name from Bear to Friday (‘everybody loves Friday’) and also because my super mom was watching Mr. Rogers and saw King Friday the 13th.

I had a lot of fun with them over the Christmas holidays and am starting to learn some great new tricks, like shake, “outside!”, and even “wait”. That one is still hard for me, but I have another dog partner and I watch what she does a lot. We’re always together!

Just wanted to say thanks for rescuing me and finding me a home. My owners think I’m pretty special.

B I N G O
We adopted Bingo December 31st from GRRAND. We love him, he is a real sweetheart. Bingo was a stray he and has undergone major hip surgery. He is really on the mend now thanks to a wonderful foster home, and his strong will. He has brought much joy to our lives!!

Lexie in Happy Habitat
Hi everyone at Grrand, It's me Lexie. Thought I would let you know what I am learning with my forever family. I am supposed to keep four legs on the floor when I greet people and I have learned that kids are just the right size for kissing. Running is for my yard, not the house. If I keep Mom's feet warm, I can sleep on the bed. I am learning to play ball (all the kids do it) and that is another outside thing, I can look out the front door and greet the neighbors and watch for Dad to come home (we eat when Dad gets here) And you would be so proud of me, Friday night Mom and Dad went out for four hours and left me in charge and they said I did a great job. Well got to go now, I think we are going to Feeders Supply for more treats.

Later,
Love ya, Lexie

Topaz and Nash
Patti adopted Topaz and Nash last year and has enjoyed watching them grow. Topaz really loves people and certified with Patti, her human partner, for pet therapy. We go to school and church with READ program to help the kids grow and learn. Nash and Topaz love to spend mornings walking for exercise and playing together.
I feel blessed to have them in my life...thank you GRRAND!

Topaz at church READ program
Hello Family and Friends,
Just wanted to send a picture of Topaz at church this morning.
The kids at church enjoy participating in reading when Topaz is present.
She has been such a blessing in our lives!
Faith, Strength, Wisdom, Love,
Patti

Happy New Year!
My new name is Juleigh, at GRRAND you knew me as Jewel #2. I’m the pretty girl on the far left of the picture above with my new family. Just how lucky can a girl get? Our Mom took us to a farm over the holidays to play and here I am hanging out with my Mom and my GRRAND brother Dempsey, my sister Kylie, my brother Dakota (he’s the boss) and my other sister Annie. I just want everyone at GRRAND to know I had the very best Christmas ever and I have sooo much fun everyday running and playing with my brothers & sisters. I couldn’t have asked for more if I hit the lottery…in fact, I think I did hit the lottery! We play hard everyday at home, at the Creeks, and the dog park. We chase our favorite red ball all around, which by the way, I’ve become very good at retrieving. There is never a dull moment in my family especially with my cat brother Oreo and sister C.C. I like them a lot too; they’re fun to nose around and cuddle. Anyway, thank you GRRAND for helping me find my new home…things weren’t so nice in my life before GRRAND. When my parents came to pick me up they said they were just “fostering” me but I guess they must have fallen in love with me because here I am, just one of the pack and I couldn’t be happier!

Happy New Year and I hope all GRRAND Goldens are as lucky as me in the New Year!

Your friend,
Juleigh

Christmas Fun with Sadie
This is Sadie...(formerly Jenny)...who we adopted into our family April 2007, so this was her first Christmas with us.
"Hey I did NOT make this mess...but all this excitement on Christmas Day sure is fun...all this wrapping paper ...I think I'll just lay down in the middle of it!!"

Merry Christmas
Buddy & Rebecca, Morgan, Omar, and Scout

Christmas Dogs!
A special thanks to our special friends at Grrand. Thanks for making it possible for us to be together ……

MERRY CHRISTMAS from Oscar, Lucy, Daisy and Bettye Stanbery

Bailey with Tipper
Thought you guys might like to see what a beautiful dog Tipper (formerly Alice) is now compared to the pitiful sight she was when we brought her home last year. Here is Tipper with Bailey. They dearly love one another.

Pam

Buddy Home for the Holidays
I just wanted to let you know Buddy is the most wonderful dog in the world! Please let everyone at GRRAND know we could not be happier with Buddy.
Buddy got his last heart worm shot last Friday and is doing great. He seems to be really happy at his new home and everyone loves him!

Thanks again for all you do for GRRAND. It is such a wonderful organization!

Leslie

5 Goldens, Ring!
Merry Christmas everyone at Grrand, just want to let you know that all of us at the Peters household are doing well. As you can see we even let our foster brother in the picture. From left to right Rex, Rusty (our foster), Lady, Colonel and Cinnamon in front. Have a Happy New Years too!!!

The Peters Crew

Moved Right In
Here is a picture of Willow (formely Blondie) on the right  with Grrand sibling, Lydia (formerly Annika). 
 
It's been over a week now, and "Willow" is doing just great.  It seems like she's been with us for years.  Everybody gets along great and they are playing vigorously outside.  There have been no food issues, and the cats are learning to deal with Willow.  She has been so affectionate and is with us constantly.  When we got home she checked out the yard and came in when I called the others dogs.  I sat in my recliner, and shortly thereafter she placed two paws in my lap which then changed to three paws, and shortly after I had her laying in my lap.  I did a little coaxing.

Last night she laid between my legs while I was on the floor and curled up, went to sleep, and began snoring. She's really enjoyed being petted and nobody has showed any jealously. We left the house today for about an hour and a half and when we returned, we found Lydia and Willow on the bed, which we cover during the day and allow them on.
 
She seems to fit in just fine and acts as though she's been here for a long time.  She's responded to our attention, and seems comfortable. I'm thinking that she must have had a loving home at some time, because she sure knows how to get to your heart.
 
She still has some "puppy" traits and has gathered some of our things while we are gone. .  We're showing progress with "sit" "stay" and "come."  She's gained some weight.  
 
We feel that she's going to be a great dog and that we were lucky to have a chance to adopt her.
 
Gene & Karen

Adoption for Christmas
Last year, around Christmas time, our family decided to foster Buck, a ten year old boy in need of a home. We got Buck with the intention of only being his foster parents, but when other families started showing interest in him, we decided that we had to keep him for ourselves.

Buck's adoption became official Christmas Day while he waited for us under the tree with the rest of our presents. Ever since that morning, he's been a wonderful addition to our family. He loves our two other dogs and cuddles with the cats more than we do!

We couldn't imagine life without Buck and we thank GRRAND for bringing him to us.

Lenny is doing great!
Lenny is doing great! In September we took him with us to Gatlinburg. We had a cabin on a lake in a gated community. Lenny was able to swim in the lake, hang out, and check out the fish. He's not much of a water dog, but he did try to swim after the girls when they went out in the canoe. He loved being able to run around! We visit the dog park sometimes during the week. He enjoys the other dogs but loves their owners more. He is very much a people dog.

Well, what can I say about Miss Aggie?..
She is terrific!  We are amazed at
how  great she gets around--she runs, jumps and even digs!  She is as sweet
as can be and everyone who has met her so far is just charmed by her.  She has made herself quite at home with us.  She loves to spend time in the backyard.  She is content to sit and watch the birds and squirrels for hours.  As far as Jack is concerned, after the initial growling during the first few days, they have een  getting along just fine.  For the most part, they do their own thing.  We purchased a ramp for the car to make
it easier for Aggie to get in and out.  She seems to like it.  We also have steps leading up to our bed which she has learned to use.  Aggie has such energy, always running around. 
She just loves any kind of attention, loves to be brushed, and even let me trim her nails.

We are so happy that she is a part of our family.

Sincerely,
Christina

Hello from Greene County, Ohio
This month I will celebrate the one year anniversary of my adoption of Gus.

Gus was brought to me last November by Kim. He was pitiful looking…sad face and his golden coat wasn't very golden or very soft. I had agreed to foster him until a forever home could be found for him. And, that is history. After a few days in my home with my other GRRAND friend, Rusty and my cat, Abby I knew he had found his forever home with us.

I was told he is between 10 and 12 but those are only numbers. After a few months with me giving him quality food, proper vet care and a WHOLE lot of love those 10 and 12 could be months instead of years. He does have arthritis but with medication most of his days are “good days”. He is so cute because he tries to hop like a rabbit on those good days.

I have attached a photo of him and of my other boy “Rusty” (Rusty is by the mum and Gus is on the deck) who is probably 8 or 9. I went to the kennel in Louisville (July 2006) and brought home Rusty who was perfect in every way, quite the golden gentleman, and has remained perfect to this day.

Please, if you are considering adoption of one of our Golden friends, don't over look the Senior guys and gals. They definitely are a wonderful addition to my family and I'm sure they could be for yours too. My two are so calm and laid back, they are both great with my 4 year old grandson, get along well with my cat and seem so grateful for a warm, safe and happy home. There hasn't been one moment that I regret giving a forever home to these guys.

Happy Holidays from Phyllis, Rusty and Gus.

Perfect Golden for Our Family
Our family adopted Max in August 2006. He is now 2 years old. We immediately fell in love with this big boy when we first saw him. He has added a lot of excitement to our house of four boys. Max was a wonderful student in obedience school and has learned to be a better mannered and patient golden. He tries to be the family protector but is just a big baby at heart. He loves to play outside with our boys but has a tendency to intercept whatever ball they are playing with. As you can see, at the end of a long day Max loves to sit on the couch and nap.

Thank you GRRAND for helping us find Max! He truly is the perfect golden for our family!
The Reidy Family

PB at the Health Club
I just wanted everyone to know that PB a.k.a. Pooh Bear is doing great. He has slimmed down his whopping 133 lb frame to a whopping 123 lb frame in a month's time, and has at least another 23 lbs to go. His energy level is a bit higher and he gets really excited about going for a walk, however, I think he still prefers really long naps. He is a very sweet, loving and adaptable dog. I'm so glad that he came into my life and that I can give him the very best in return.

Linda
Adopted Pooh Bear July 25, 2007

I was meant to be here
Just wanted you nice people at GRRAND to know that I'm now into my second week with my family and it's like I was meant to be here. They gave me a new name, Jackson which I think is kind of cool and I learned it right away.

Here's a photo my new mom took of me with my good buddy Wilson. He's just one year old, but we really like each other, and he loves to wrestle and run around the yard almost as much as I do. Sometimes he doesn't like to share his toys, but we're working on that. We take lots of long walks together and I'm learning all kinds of new stuff everyday -- for example, I've learned that my humans will give me treats just for sitting and lying down when they ask me to. Not a bad deal, in my book!

Anyway, everybody here seems to love me a lot -- they give me lots of hugs and kisses, and I do the same right back to them. They don't even mind my big, slobbery tongue!

Gotta go, I've got some running to do. Thank you GRRAND for finding this family for me.

Love,
Jackson
(adopted on 8/24/07 by Mary, Ken and WILSON)

The Perfect Addition
Hi my name is M'Kenzy and I was adopted on June 24, 2007. (My name was Georgia when I was adopted.)
I now live with my new Mom & Dad, 2 brothers, 1 sister, and 2 other dogs. I love my sister, she is only 4 and likes to feed me Fruit Loops. Of course, we have to sneak and do this because Mom & Dad say no I don't need that. They must not realize how good they taste! But that's ok because my brother's give me treats when I sit, give my paw and lay down. I have them trained well because all of that stuff is so easy for me!
I really enjoy playing tug with the other dogs, running around the yard and barking at the dog next door. But most of all I love sleeping in bed with my Mom & Dad. Did I mention I have them trained well also!

I have a couple of tricks I do that get me in trouble. One of them is standing in the middle of the patio table. As you can see in the picture I am totally innocent! I don't see anything wrong with getting a better look of the back yard from up there!
I really love my new family and they certainly love me! I get lots of love, attention and belly rubs! Thanks GRRAND for the great new family you gave me!

Love,
M'Kenzy

The Perfect Fit
I just wanted to thank you for bringing Sadie into our lives. I volunteer as a walker/foster parent?with GRRAND, and after fostering many wonderful goldens, I knew Sadie was the perfect fit for us. We are now officially Foster Failures!! She is a wonderful dog, and gets along great with our first "baby" Bailey. I attached a photo of them posing, they are such hams. Bailey is on the left and Sadie is on the right. Like some of the other happy ending stories, I also want to thank the person who gave this precious girl up. Now our family is complete!! Thanks GRRAND!

Sincerely,
Tara & Chris

Happy at home
Enclosed is a picture of Annie (left) and Sailor. He is doing very well
and is very happy in his new home.

Thanks again for making it possible for us to have this wonderful gift of love and affection.

All the Best,
Gary & Nancy

Always keep Whiskey nearby
I adopted Whiskey in early 2003. (His name was Drake when I adopted him.)Whiskey, not to be confused with the liquor, has become my nearly constant companion. When I'm home from work, he is attached to me at the hip, wanting to go every where I go. And of course I oblige. He makes me laugh on a regular basis. This photo is a good example. He's not even awake and he makes me grin. Thank you, Grrand.

Secret weapon against varmits
Sorry I couldn't attend the Bark-B-Q, my family took me to the beach that week.

I am doing great , have a big yard with beautiful gardens. My job is to keep the rabbits away. I love my job.

Geneva

Hi Mom and Osito,
I am at this strange place. After we got here, this guy named Jay came in and I greeted him at the door. He gave big hugs and I licked him. He really likes me. He talks funny, but I can understand what he says. He took me shopping for new toys and a new lead and goodies. I made out like a bandit. I'm just not too sure if all those things are for me. I like the pinecones in the backyard the best.

I met the dog who lives next door. She and I met in front of the house and got along fine. Then they put us in the our own back yards. She tried to start a barking war as we ran the fence, but I didn't have time for that. I wore her out. This morning she and I only ran the fence a couple of times. She was sore from last night.

Last night, guess what, I didn't go in the crate. And I was a good girl. I did bark and wake them up at 5:45. But, we went to bed early, so they were waking up anyway. They let me outside and I came back in and took a nap.

The cats here, I'm not sure about. I met them, and I turned around and walked away.

I didn't eat right away last night, but finally did eat. Today, I just ate a little bit. I'm missing what was before, but I think I'll be OK. There's three people here and sometimes I don't know which one to follow.

I'll write to you again soon.

Love,
Montana

The Golden Prince
Dempsey is the best little Golden we could have asked for. He is 8 months old now and 70 lbs so he's a very big, lean, boy. He loves his Golden sisters and brother, Kylie, Annie and Dakota and even loves his feline siblings Oreo and C.C. We call Dempsey our Golden Prince because he has the most striking golden eyes, something I've not seen in other Goldens. He's playful, mischievous, loving, HUGE and so smart. And, quite the talker! He doesn't do the usual bark or whine, he literally talks. He looks me straight in the face and warbles his desire. He's amazing. Thank you GRRAND for the wonderful work you do saving these remarkable dogs. We just couldn't imagine life without Dempsey in our pack.
THANK YOU!!
Lisa, Ralph, & Crew

Ranger adds a lot of Flavor
Dear GRRAND Friends:

We got Ranger, our 6 year old golden about two months ago from GRRAND. He is such a funny, verbal dog with tons of energy to spare. He is definitely a lover boy and cuddles with the girls but can turn around and rough house/wrestle with John, my fiancee. Everyone one of us -- from the oldest to our youngest, who is seven -- gets their own brand of special attention and love from Ranger -- he is a unique dog. My favorite story about Ranger is that he is absolutely crazy about toothpaste. Every morning and evening when he sees John brushing his teeth, he runs to the bathroom and jumps up on his hind legs with his paws on the counter to try and get a taste. John usually gives him some toothpaste and then Range washes his mouth out by taking a big drink from the faucet. It is hilarious. You never know how someone is going to change your life. Ranger adds a lot of flavor, energy, (and quite a bit of craziness) to our home and we're so glad he is part of our family now. Our thanks to GRRAND for bringing Ranger to us.

Best,
Ann, John, Becca and Meghan

He is so Wonderful!
WE LOVE BAILEY!!! He is so wonderful and brings us so much joy! He still has a lot of puppy in him so we have been working really hard with him on the tips that were in the booklet. Simple things like not jumping on people and begging at the table and stuff like that. But we even enjoy that. We don't have kids yet. So, for right now, Bailey is like our baby!

He's become part of the family!
It's hard to believe that we've had Ryder for only 3 days... he's become part of the family! Heidi seems to be adjusting to this new presence in our home. They did have a small encounter the first day but have been fine since. Of course, we are keeping a close eye on them. They walk very well together and are both ready for attention and affection at any time...it's a good thing we have two hands. I've attached a picture of them both. He's a very handsome dog, a big handsome dog!
Beth

The life of a well loved golden.
Hi, my name is Dancer, I am the good looking one on the right. In the middle is my mom and the other golden is my brother.

My mom said I had to write a thank you to all the people who helped me at GRRAND. Boy, that's a lot of people so I am going to write one letter because I am sort of busy I have walks to take, squirrels to bark at, treats to eat..the life of a well loved golden. A great big thank you woof to who ever rescued me from the shelter. Golden's are meant to live with people and I didn't like that loud place and I missed my family. I don't know where my first family went and I was scared. Thanks to my foster mom, Christie, and foster brother, Wrigley, who let me live with them while I waited for my perfect family.

Ohhh, I love my new home and I am pretty sure they think I am a keeper.
Who knew there were so many kong toys to play with. I have a great big basket of my own toys that's over flowing with great things to chew. On my very first day there I had TWO of my very own dog beds and I was allowed to sleep on my brother's beds. My big brother and I love to wrestle. So even when my mom's not home, I still have somebody to play with. And every time we come home from a walk we found another 2 or 3. Mometimes makes us give them back to the people who are playing with them but she's silly, everybody knows tennis balls are for dogs, people don't fetch.

I am real smart too; I have trained my mom to give me a biscuit when I sit and even when I lay down. How's that for clever. I learned how to unlock the fence, but noone was really happy about that so I don't do that anymore.

Every night my mom gives me a kiss and say's love you with a look that tells me I have found my forever family. Thanks to everyone GRRAND for helping me find a new home!

Well on his way to being very spoiled
I wanted to foward some pictures of Jerry who is now known as Sunny. He didn't seem to know "Jerry", but he responds well to Sunny. In one picture, he is w/ his "brother" Xander. As you can see by their faces, they had just been playing hard and were taking a small break. In the other picture, he is by the back door, ready to go inside. He likes to play outside, but he also REALLY likes to be indoors in the air conditioning on his soft bed He's well on his way to being very spoiled. He is such a great addition to our family and we are very happy that he is with us. We'd like to thank everyone for Sunny and thank everyone for all you do for all these wonderful dogs!

Gina and Tim

A great fit for us
We just wanted to write to pass on our great experience with our dog Ty! He has become such a wonderful part of our family. He has made himself right at home and his loving personality makes him a great fit for us. Ty loves to go to the dog park and socialize with all the dogs. He loves to play Frisbee and is still working on the catch part. Oddly enough, he doesn't like to play in water...but we are working on that.

Thanks again for introducing us to such a great dog. You guys are awesome!

Matt, Rach and TY

Snuggly Girl Maisy
Dear Grrand,
Maisy (formerly Carrie) wanted me to write and tell you how much fun she is having here in Cincinnati! I've had her now since March 4th, and I've been in love with her since the second she hopped into my car.
She has been the best girl from the day she walked in the door. She is the sweetest, most loving, snuggly girl I have ever met. She is a sucker for a belly rub, and she loves to give kisses when she's extra happy. Chris and I joke that she is half golden retriever and half rabbit because when she gets excited, she hops around, tossing her ducky and lobster toys into the air. When I was a young girl, my parents surprised me with a 3-year-old golden retriever that they had gotten from a golden retriever rescue in Springfield, Ohio. Bo immediately became the love of my life. He was my best buddy who rode in the car with my mom to pick me up from school. He wouldn't leave my side when I was lying on the couch, home sick from school. He knew if I was upset about something and would run up to me and lie his head in my lap. He made every day brighter. When we had to put him to sleep last year at the age of 14, it nearly tore my heart out. There is nothing worse than having to let go of your best friend. The only thing that made it better was knowing that he
lived a long, wonderful life with a family who adored him. After we lost Bo, it was very hard for me to think of having another dog in my life. I just wasn't ready, and I really did not want to replace him. But soon after I moved out of my parents' house and tried to make a new home for myself, I realized it just wasn't complete without a tail wagging when I got home...or a little furball to nuggle with. And I knew I wanted a rescue dog...one who really needed a home and an owner to love him or her. So I decided to apply for adoption through Grrand. Everyone I spoke with was so great and was so willing to work with me to find the perfect dog. I originally wanted a big, beautiful full-sized golden retriever boy...just like my beloved Bo. But Diane suggested the possibility of getting a smaller golden retriever mix, since I live in an apartment. After months of trying to pair me up with the perfect dog, she sent me a picture of Maisy (then Carrie), and I just knew I had to meet her. Chris and I drove to Louisville the next day, and we knew she had to be ours. She is a 35 pound golden retriever mix. We think maybe she has Corgi in her. She is 2 years old, and I think she will look like a golden retriever puppy for the rest of her life. She is a doll baby. She is just the most amazing dog. She is so smart, so sweet, and great wherever I take her. She loves kids and their dogs. She's just a dream. I really want to thank Grrand for helping me find another best friend to love. I want to thank you for taking such an amazing little girl from such a terrible dog shelter where she picked up 3 parasites and a bad case of kennel cough. I want to thank you for taking care of her and pairing her up with me. I think I needed her as much as she needed me. Everywhere I go, people stop and tell me how beautiful and how good she is. She's just a true gem. I'd like to encourage anyone looking for a dog to consider a golden retriever mix. She has the true golden personality, and who wouldn't want a dog who will always look like a puppy?! I'm so thankful for my girl, and I lover her to pieces.
Thank you for helping me find my baby,
Jill

Naughty But Nice!
Hi there,
Attached is a really happy picture of Daisy-- maybe better for the Happy Endings page. Anyway, thought you would enjoy it, especially those who saw her come from the animal shelter as a very skinny, very sad little dog.

Also, "good news"-- Daisy ate a loaf of bread when my back was turned on Monday.
I guess she is finally feeling safe enough to be naughty!

Take care,
Nancy

I think this was just meant to be!!!
Haylee and Seige are doing spectacularly! I think they are already feeling very much at home.They are wonderful with the kids. And the kids adore them (I've attached a picture of them with my son). They have even made friends with one of my cats already.




We love them very much and feel so blessed to have found them.

Working through GRRAND and with all of the devoted volunteers has been such a great experience. We are so happy to have found this organization and to have become a part of it. Casey and I look forward to having continued participation in GRRAND activities.

Sincerely,
Molly

A Proud GRRAND Mom
Hello from Xenia, Ohio.

Just wanted to send an update about my two golden friends (Rusty adopted in July '06 and Gus adopted in Nov. 06), they are doing great.

As you can see in one of the photos Rusty and my grandson, Hunter, get along famously. And, little old Gus has gained weight and confidence to become quite the wonderful gentle old man. I took both of them to the groomer a couple of weeks ago, it was so funny...Gus took up the whole backseat and Rusty rode in the front passenger seat like they had been doing that their whole lives...and the groomer praised both of them for their gentleness while being groomed.

They both are such a pleasant addition to my home and are really no trouble at all. Gus is funny because sometimes I think he has senior moments but hey, don't we all when we get a certain age? I certainly do. And, Rusty has been absolutely perfect since the first day I brought him home from the kennel in Louisville.

So, again Thank You Grrand for helping these two wonderful Golden Boys find their forever home with me and my cat, Abby.

Phyllis
a proud Grrand Mom

Reece is doing great!
He has also trained his family to share his couch.

Off to the Dog Park!
Allow us to introduce Morgan 3, Bogey 10 and Charlie 11. They are on the way to the Dog Park, so that explains why Bogey's ears are flying high in mid-gallop.

We adopted Bogey and Charlie later in their lives and they have brought much happiness to ours.

Calm, gentle and very loving, adopting a senior dog is a wonderful way to help these fine companions. In addition, you will be rewarded with an easy addition to your family.

Some of them have had tough previous lives, so they are very grateful for your care and attention, just ask anyone who has adopted a white face.

Please consider adopting a senior GRRAND dog, and you'll experience what fun these "pups" can be.

Gary & Sue

This is my handsome boy Stanley.
Stan has been with me since january 30th. the minute stan jumped in my car, I knew we were gonna be best friends forever. He is the most special guy. He just walked in and made himself at home. He knew!! he is such a crack up. Everyday he becomes a bit more mischevious, curious and brave. (how hard it is to correct a dog when he is constantly making you laugh). Stanley has put that light back in my life that went out when i had to put my other 2 dogs down in may last year. He has the sweetest face and eyes. He loves to go for walks, play in the yard, (and dig too! not good) and be wherever i am. I love it when he follows me around the house. Stanley is such a good boy, and i couldn't adore him anymore if i wanted to. We have plenty of obedience work to do, and I am looking forward to him being the most well mannered dog! I think that GRRAND is the most fabulous organization. i will be back not to long from now to find a friend for Stanley. All of the foster families, whose homes i went to were so great!!!! what awesome people!
it is funny how everyone looks at stanley and says "what a lucky boy you are". well... no, honestly.... I am the lucky one!!

Party Time!
Hello from Sawyer and Samantha. We just celebrated our fifth anniversary with our GRRAND family. As you can see, it was a big party complete with special headgear. Thank you for everything you did to help us find our family.

Lady & Sampson Update
Hello GRRAND!!! I just wanted to update you all on Lady and Sampson adopted in November 2006, the most perfect pair of goldens ever!!!!! I hope you can see the happiness in their eyes and tell just how loved they are. The two of them have added so much joy to our home and their kitty cat sisters are now loving them, too. Thanks again for all the wonderful work you do rescuing goldens in need like ours. Because of you our life is full of love.

Michael and Sharon

A New Leash on Life
What do you think of our 2 big boys? This is Gus and Max. You could not ask for 2 nicer dogs.

Gus came to us through a lovely family in Loveland, OH and GRRAND. What a wonderful addition to our family He is adorable. He has been with us since Nov 06 and Max came in July 06.

Thanks GRRAND!
Carey